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Wednesday 23 June 2021
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Shire backs zero carbon future Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au
Let’s celebrate: The Bays aged care director Julie D’Arcy, resident Rosie White and care manager Nicola Douglas cut the cake to mark the opening of The Bays Aged Care at Hastings. The $20 million redevelopment offers light-filled rooms, spacious dining and lounge areas and terraces and courtyards for residents. Picture: Supplied See Story Page 7
COME AND SEE THE CHICKENS ROAMING FREE IN THE PADDOCK!
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire Council went further down the track towards a zero-carbon future last week by voting to explore only net zero carbon design in shire buildings – meaning new buildings would ideally produce no emissions. Councillors at the 15 June planning services committee meeting moved to join others on the Council for Alliance of Sustainable Built Environment project to “advance environmentally sustainable development planning policies to achieve net zero carbon and climate resilience development”. This means any new buildings should be designed to be highly energy efficient and to not use gas or coal-fired electricity through having a combination of rooftop solar and buying off-site renewable energy. This project is supported by the Municipal Association of Victoria and driven by the Council for Alliance of Sustainable Built Environment and the cities of Moreland and Yarra. It builds on previous work by CASBE and other councils over the past decade in raising environmental standards in public and private built form, a shire statement said. “This is another major step that
supports our Climate Emergency Plan,” the mayor Cr Despi O’Connor said. “This plan was adopted in the last council term and supports calls from our community to take action against climate change. “The plan also requires new council builds to be fitted with electrical appliances powered by renewables and looks to transition our community to renewable energy, not buying it or subsidising it for them, but advocating on their behalf. It also supports the facilitation of competitive offers to encourage community uptake of solar panels, and electrical equipment to replace gas appliances, if they choose that path.” Cr O’Connor said while gas was being used to heat the new council pool in Besgrove Street, Rosebud, no alternative heat source was presently available. Future refits may be able to exploit advances in water heating technology to complement the full set of solar panels on the roof, she said. But Cr Steve Holland said he was “very concerned that many residents are not aware of the shire’s target to phase out all natural gas across the entire Mornington Peninsula by 2040”. Continued Page 9
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Is a ban on Snapper fishing next? A Statement from by the Victorian Recreational Fishing Peak Body. Recreational fishing is a beneficial family-friendly activity that provides numerous health and wellbeing benefits to the 840,000 Victorian adults who fish every year, injecting $2.9 billion into our local economies. Recreational fishing for Giant spider crabs is an emerging recreational fishery and is undertaken by a small, but important, recreational fisher community. This localised, short-lived annual fishery is a legal and beneficial outdoor activity for Victorian family groups. VRFish supports the Victorian Fisheries Authority’s advice that recreational fishing for the crabs does not pose a sustainability or biomass threat and we further support the scientific studies and surveys currently underway. Unfortunately, the management of this fishery has been attacked by a loose association of conservation, NIMBY and self-interested water user groups in a campaign coordinated by an avowed anti-recreational fishing group. VRFish will actively defend any recreational fishing segment from the type of campaign we are witnessing, and we have called on the Victorian government to likewise defend a legal and beneficial recreational fishing activity. That Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors are opposing a form of recreational fishing is not surprising, as we consider this council the worst supporter of resident (and tourist) recreational fishers and boaters of any local government in the State.
VRFish supports the Giant Spider Crab fishery on the following grounds: Cultural Heritage Sustainable, recreational fishing for aggregations of fishes, molluscs and crustaceans is nothing new to Victoria. Historical recreational fisheries provide examples of a deeper connection (cultural heritage) to our recreational fisheries than simple ‘harvesting’ or what is being asserted by the groups opposed to the recreational take of Giant spider crab. For example: •
Blue Sea Mussel (Mytilus edulis) foraging at Brighton Beach - important to the Italian Australian community,
•
Southern Calamari (Sepioteuthis australis) fishing from bay piers - important to the Greek Australian community, or
•
Skipjack Tailor (Pomatomus saltatrix) winter fishing at Newport Power station - important to the Vietnamese Australian community.
A proper understanding of our modern recreational fishing CALD community shows that the emerging crab fishery benefit certainly extends to a culturally rich significance and heritage. Put simply, there is a 3,000-year written history of ‘crab culture’ within Chinese Australian cultural heritage This recreational fishing based cultural heritage is deserving of recognition and celebration. “One hand holding crab claws, one hand holding a glass, swimming in the wine pool and life has been satisfied” Zhou Bi – Han Dynasty c180 AD The suggestion by a clearly xenophobic and ignorant minority within the campaign against the Giant spider crab recreational fishery, that it holds no ‘cultural significance’ for fishery participants should serve to discredit these groups. Recreational fishers are clearly practicing ‘crab culture.’
Giant Spider Crab Recreational Fisher Survey Results Despite deliberately misleading assertions by the group opposed, the survey clearly shows that recreational fishers value the spider crab catch, are consuming the crab and are highly compliant with current fisheries regulations.
Safety Risk The assertion that recreational fishing activity on Rye Pier encourages shark interactions is rejected by VRFish. According to the International Shark Attack File, the Sevengill shark has been responsible for five documented unprovoked attacks on humans since the 16th century. However, the wanton vandalism of legally used recreational fishing equipment and threats of violence to recreational fishing families at Rye and Blairgowrie piers does increase the safety rick for recreational fishing families. VRFish is advocating for the Minister for Fishing and Boating to increase protection for recreational spider crab fishers using exclusion powers under the Marine Safety Act 2010.
Environmental Damage The assertion of recreational fishing equipment damage to the benthic ecosystem, bycatch destruction and water pollution from crab bait is absolutely rejected by VRFish. One only needs to consider the magnitude of natural, moulting crab mortality and limited impact on surrounding water quality to reject the assertion. Likewise, consider the sheer magnitude of point source pollution entering peninsula waters from stormwater and litter.
Responsible Recreation VRFish is engaging with the Chinese Australian community through a series of social and print media marketing campaigns to raise awareness of all recreational fisher obligations under our responsible recreation principles. The VRFish code of conduct, updated fishery regulations and best practice fishing and animal welfare obligations have been launched across Chinese language social media platforms. This campaign will complement the Victorian Fisheries Authority’s education campaign.
PAGE 2
Western Port News 23 June 2021
NEWS DESK
‘Perfect storm’ leaves renters in the cold Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au A COMBINATION of factors is making it harder for prospective renters on the Mornington Peninsula to find suitable homes to live in long term. Anecdotally, the shortage of medium-and-long-term rentals is being caused by landlords taking advantage of the money to be gained from shortstay rentals, such as AirBNB, where they can make as much over a few weekends as over the long-term, and then have the flexibility of using their property when they choose. Also, as a result of changed habits due to the COVID pandemic, holiday home owners are moving to the peninsula and working from home, while landlords, disgruntled at wholesale rule changes imposed by the new Residential Tenancies Regulations, are saying “enough is enough” and moving into their investment properties themselves. Other landlords are taking advantage of booming property prices caused, in part, by low interest rates, and selling in a “hot” market. This “perfect storm” of events is resulting in fewer properties being available to rent which may change the make-up of the peninsula’s population with fewer families, fewer school-age children and less variety among age groups. It could also lead to an increase in homeless. Cr Susan Bissinger said discussions with residents and comments on social media pointed to a “crisis” in accommodation for medium-to-long-
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REAL estate agent Elaine Bourke says a shortage of rental properties on the Mornington Peninsula is exacerbating homelessness. Picture: Yanni term renters. “I received a text from someone I know who is being evicted from their long-term rental and has exhausted all other avenues in finding a new home,” she said. “These families make up a significant part of our community, with kids enrolled in school, involved in sporting clubs, working in the area. “When you add these points together, it is no wonder that our medium to long term rental market is at crisis point.” Century 21 Hastings principal Chris Watt said landlords were “leaving the building” and taking rental properties with them. He said the “hot” property
5979 1382
market made it an ideal time to sell and avoid the new tenancy laws which some landlords believed tilted the balance too much in the tenant’s favour. Mr Watt said this was leading to a rental property shortage which in turn was pushing up rents. Landlords in the town are taking advantage of capital gains of up to $100,000 over the past two years by selling rather that going to the trouble of complying with the new tenancy regulations – which came into effect in March – and having to improve the property before it can be re-let. Adding impetus is the knowledge that the share market is going gang-
busters and shares, with their added flexibility, can be sold in small parcels whereas properties cannot. Also, many former rental properties are being snapped up by now-owneroccupiers taking advantage of low interest rates. Renters are not in the race. Peninsula Property Management director Elaine Bourke said the scenario of profitable Airbnbs, former landlords moving into their properties, or selling out in a vibrant market while avoiding tough tenancy rules, were “exactly what is happening” on the Mornington Peninsula. She said the effect was devastating for renters and causing a massive
2013 FRANKSTON - FLINDERS ROAD, HASTINGS
shortfall in available properties. “We’ve got families with nowhere to live,” she said. Ms Bourke said the state government “didn’t think through” the effects of comprehensive changes to the residential tenancies regulations which impose audits on properties covering items such as gas, electricity and smoke alarms, even cookers and heaters. The audits are costing the average landlord $700. “These audits are not imposed on owner-occupiers or if they rent their properties out on Airbnb,” she said. “There was not enough consultation with mum-and-dad landlords who own a property and have a mortgage on it. The changes are a burden and are unreasonable.” Ms Bourke said the effects of the shortages in rental properties caused by the “perfect storm” had stripped value from her – and other real estate agents – businesses on the peninsula because they had fewer properties to let. “It’s extraordinary,” she said. “The effect on small business has been devastating.” Jacobs & Lowe Real Estate director Cameron McDonald said the rental median had gone up after a lag caused by the pandemic last year, while fewer properties for lease had exacerbated the rent rises. Changes to the tenancy laws were deterring investors and making them “gun shy” of buying properties to rent with the flow-on effect making long-term rentals – especially older properties – harder to find, he said.
OPEN 7 DAYS Western Port News
23 June 2021
PAGE 3
Police patrol
Western Port
Proudly published by Mornington Peninsula News Group Pty Ltd
PHONE: 03 5974 9000 Published weekly. Circulation: 15,000
Journalists: Stephen Taylor, Brodie Cowburn 5974 9000 Photographers: Gary Sissons, Yanni Advertising Sales: Bruce Stewart 0409 428 171 Real Estate Account Manager: Jason Richardson 0421 190 318 Production/Graphic design: Marcus Pettifer, Danielle Espagne Group Editor: Keith Platt 0439 394 707 Publisher: Cameron McCullough
Charges over Moorooduc collision A MORNINGTON woman has been charged with dangerous driving causing death after a collision at Moorooduc last week. A 56-year-old Tyabb man died when two vehicles collided at the intersection of Stumpy Gully and Mornington-Tyabb roads, 5.55am, Friday 11 June. An 18-year-old man, also of Tyabb, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The pair were in a utility which collided with a Mazda SUV being driven by the 20-year-old, who was taken to hospital with serious injuries after the incident. She has been bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 23 June.
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 24 JUNE 2021 NEXT ISSUE PUBLICATION DATE: WED 30 JUNE 2021
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Man remanded over Langwarrin incident A LANGWARRIN man appeared at Frankston Magistrates’ Court last week charged with 60 offences following an incident in Langwarrin in which two police officers were allegedly assaulted. The most serious charge was assaulting police, with the others including theft of a motor car, handling stolen goods, as well as drug and bail offences. No application for bail was made
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and the 40-year-old was further remanded to reappear next month. He had earlier been arrested at Mont Albert, along with a 47-year-old man and a 41-year-old woman, who arrived there in a stolen car, and whom police believe are “associates”. The second man was charged with theft of a motor car, handling stolen goods, possessing the proceeds of crime and traffic offences. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court last week. The woman was expected to be charged on summons with theft of a motor car, handling stolen goods, possessing the proceeds of crime and drug offences. Prior to the arrests police had been patrolling the Langwarrin area when they spotted an unoccupied stolen car on Aqueduct Road. They allege a man and a woman approached them and attempted to get into the car. In a fight a female officer was allegedly punched in the face. Police also allege the man attempted to grab a police handgun while “threatening to kill officers and encouraged his counterpart to get into the car and run the members over”. Police arrested a 41-year-old Langwarrin woman at the scene, but the man ran off. She has been charged with reckless conduct, resisting police, theft of a car, possessing a dangerous article, possessing a drug and other charges. She was bailed to appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court on 22 November.
Storm still a danger
EXTREME weather events over 9-10 June have highlighted why operations like Operation Regal over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend are vital, police say. Its major focus was on ensuring and enforcing safe driving practices.
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Western Port News 23 June 2021
Driver sought POLICE are searching for the driver of a car which collided with a motorcycle in Humphries Road, Frankston South, about 7pm, Saturday 12 June. The rider suffered serious leg injuries in the incident which occurred between Blake Court and Cummins Lane. The car is likely to have damage to the rear driver’s side. Anyone who saw the crash, has dash-cam footage or information which could assist in identifying the driver should contact Leading Senior Constable Jon Shields, Somerville Highway Patrol 59781300, or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.
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Reports are continuing to come in about weakened trees falling on the shire’s rural roads, many of which have 60-80kph speed limits. Most are winding and few have good lighting after dark. Rosebud police captured this scene on White Hill Road, Red Hill, to demonstrate the danger when trees come down, generally without warning. “If you are using the roads, drive to the conditions,” police say. “A speed limit does not abrogate a driver’s responsibility to drive safely and responsibly. “If you need to slow down, then slow down. “Now more than ever we cannot and will not accept reckless and dangerous driving.”
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NEWS DESK
Shining bright in scleroderma fight McCRAE lighthouse will be lit up in yellow on Tuesday 29 June to raise public awareness of the condition known as scleroderma. The lighthouse will shine bright to generate support and to raise funds to support the 6000 people impacted by scleroderma and raise funds for research into fighting it. The Lions Club of McCrae is supporting the Shine Like a Sunflower campaign against the chronic condition that causes thickening and hardening of the body’s connective tissue. Louise Inglese, of Mornington, was diagnosed in February 2016 by her gastroenterologist. “The diagnosis came as a huge shock as I had never heard of scleroderma,” she said. “Having a condition that nobody has heard of is a lonely business and when even the medical profession cannot recognise it, or tell you what is going to happen, it is lonelier still.” She said early diagnosis saves lives and leads to control of the condition. Ms Inglese struggles with what’s called Raynaud’s Phenomenon in her hands and feet and the damage to her digestive system results in many gastrointestinal tract problems. She says she is blessed with family and friends who offer “amazing support”. They have helped fundraise over the past five years with Snuggle Up for Scleroderma days, cocktail parties, garage sales, shave events and handed out Change for Scleroderma boxes to businesses and friends. Ms Inglese runs the Mornington Peninsula/Westernport Support Group which meets monthly to support each other and keep up to date on research and developments for scleroderma patients. Scleroderma Awareness Day was created to explain to people, including the medical community, what it means to have this condition. It recognises the bravery of those who live with scleroderma, and demands equal treatment and equal care for people with it. The Shine Like a Sunflower campaign will run until World Scleroderma Day on 29 June.
Signs of the times on our roads
A TRANSPORT Accident Commission sign on Eramosa Road East, near the Somerville Primary School, spells out the real reasons to drive safely. The signs are part of a campaign by the commission to curb road trauma and reduce the number of serious accidents. In the past five years, 37 people have died on peninsula roads, with four deaths so far this year. The peninsula is the second local government area to pilot the TAC program, Drive Safely Because, which highlights local reasons to drive safely leading to a safer community. Picture: Gary Sissons
All lit up: Mornington’s Louise Inglese wants to shine a light on the fight against scleroderma. Picture: Yanni
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23 June 2021
PAGE 5
NEWS DESK
Helping to protect Ramsar-listed wetlands Job well done: Celebrating the Red Hill Op Shop’s milestone contribution are Pat Wright, Felicity Jackson, Ruth Johns, Janet Phillips, Mary Wright and Marion Treveli. Picture: Yanni
Op shop worth its weight in gold RED Hill Op Shop, on the go since 1983, was formed by residents Carmel Whelan and Shirley Reynolds (both deceased) to raise funds for a feasibility study into establishing a home hospice service on the Mornington Peninsula. The shop has grown into a valuable community asset over the years. As well as being a hub for people to meet and a popular retail outlet, it has also donated more than $1 million to Peninsula Home Hospice. A ceremony last week involved the presentation of a plaque congratulat-
ing the Op Shop and its volunteers on raising the money. The milestone was reached in April 2020. The hospice is a not for profit specialist community palliative care organisation which focuses on ensuring those with life-limiting illnesses, carers and their families, receive the support they need in their own home. Over the years the op shop has twice had to move but its current location, at 33 Mechanics Road, Red Hill, is now permanent thanks to Grant and Cathy Booker, a local couple who bought the former Uniting
Church to ensure the shop’s location could never be threatened. The op shop has a wide variety of constantly changing goods and its pricing policies aim to ensure that turnover is frequent. More than 100 volunteers give their time to making the shop a success, supported by generous donations and many loyal customers. New volunteers who can spare three hours a month are always welcome. See facebook.com/redhillopshop or email redhillopshop@gmail.com
INTERNATIONALLY significant wetlands around Western Port Bay are being protected thanks to a $20,000 contribution from South East Water. The money will aid the Ramsar Protection Program which lists the wetlands, pictured, as being of international importance. It will help reduce threats through the control and eradication of feral cats, foxes, rabbits and goats, and remove invasive weeds, such as African Boxthorn and Spartina. The wetlands are important feeding grounds and nurseries for various plant and bird species. A number of Indigenous cultural heritage sites also sit along the Western Port shoreline. Since 2010, the Ramsar Protection Program has been a key conservation and protection project for the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority. South East Water supports the authority and partner organisations, such as Bass Coast Landcare Network
and the City of Casey to protect key areas, including Jam Jerrup (south of Lang Lang), and Blind Bight. Help is needed here to control predators, such as foxes, from threatening nesting and roosting shore and water birds, and herbivore control to reduce the damage caused by rabbits to habitat and threatened ecological communities (coastal saltmarsh). Blind Bight is near South East Water’s Blind Bight water recycling plant. South East Water’s Charlie Littlefair recognised the importance of the program in managing the health and liveability of the wetlands and the species that depended on them. “We believe in creating a better world through our actions to support communities and enable better health and environmental outcomes,” he said. “We’re proud to be contributing to the protection and enhancement of our region’s land, water, and biodiversity.”
Attention Schools, sporting clubs & community groups
Free advertising listings Each month the Westernport 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 Commuinity Bank, and listings are completely free. Lisiting 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 6
Western Port News 23 June 2021
Twenty million renewal at Bays Aged Care THE Bays Aged Care has opened a $20 million redevelopment at Hastings expanding its capacity from 75 to 90 places. The centre, in Victoria Street, offers private and government-funded respite care, memory support and dementia care, a new Dialysis unit for related treatments, extra rooms for sole occupancy and couples, and improved dining and lounge areas with fireplaces, terraces, and courtyards. The home was completed last year, however, celebrations had to be put on hold until now. “With aged care in focus at the moment, it is with great pride that we show the community our state-of-the-art home,” The Bays CEO Jade Phelan said. “Being not for profit and community owned, we have a care model centred on the needs and wellbeing of our residents. “We remained COVID-19 free throughout 2020 and continue to ensure our residents’ safety and welfare is paramount.” Flinders MP Greg Hunt said the federal government provided $5.3 million in funding allowing more aged and ageing residents to remain in an area they know and stay connected to their local community. “I congratulate The Bays Healthcare Group on this substantial redevelopment which will provide ongoing care and growing capacity for the people of Hastings,” Mr Hunt said. “This expanded, state-of-the-art facility will provide residents with the aged care services they need and will
allow them to remain within their local communities, surrounded by their friends, family, and neighbours.” “This is an exciting new chapter for the Bays, which I know has cared for the Mornington Peninsula for over 90 years.” The home with 60 beds sits on the original Hastings Bush Nursing Home site. Ms Phelan said light-filled rooms catered for sole occupancy and all have private en-suites. There’s also accommodation for couples. “Residents enjoy spacious dining and lounge areas with gas log fires, terraces and courtyards for relaxing and socialising, plus, a wide range of wellness and lifestyle activities,” she said. “The result is a truly modern home that is connected to and contributes to the local community.” In addition to permanent residential care, the home also offers private and government-funded respite care, memory support and specialised dementia care. The new centre is aligned with The Bays Hospital offering acute medical, surgical and intensive care services.
Let’s celebrate: The Bays residents cheer on the festivities. Picture: Supplied
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Western Port News
23 June 2021
PAGE 7
Esso update
By David McCord, Long Island Point Plant Manager. 23 June is International Women in Engineering Day, a day which aims to highlight some of the amazing work by women in engineering and technical roles. At Long Island Point we value the contribution of our diverse team, including the many women who are employed in engineering and technical roles as well as those involved in other functions that support our business. Managing the supply of essential liquid fuels and chemical feedstocks to our customers is a complex task that requires specialist skills. From our Operations Superintendent and Maintenance Planner, to Operations Technicians and Apprentice Electricians, women fill a number of these highly skilled roles across our operations. As well as employing a number of women in roles across our operations, we recently collaborated with Swinburne University to provide a female student with a 12-month vocational experience in our laboratory. We also have an increasing number of young women employed in various apprenticeships, cadetships and traineeships. I hope that days like International Women in Engineering Day will encourage more young women to pursue technical studies and careers. I know that the team at Long Island Point is certainly benefitting from the variety of ideas and perspectives we get from our diverse workforce. If you would like more details about our operations, please reach out at communityANZ@exxonmobil.com
NEWS DESK
Fish are fans of clean up A REHABILITATION project following a sewer spill in 2019 has given Watsons Creek at Baxter-Langwarrin South a new lease on life. This is important because the creek is a known breeding spot for the endangered dwarf galaxias fish. An aquatic ecologist helped crews from South East Water, Melbourne Water and the Environment Protection Authority manage the recovery to minimise the long-term ecological impacts of the spill. They flushed the creek for a couple of weeks afterwards with non-chlorinated water and monitored water quality for a month to ensure that the health of the waterway had returned to normal. The authorities then joined consultants Aquatica and Naturelinks to improve the fish habitat by controlling weeds and revegetating the area and conducting surveys to monitor the fish population and health of the creek, before moving the fish back upstream to the spill zone. South East Water and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council also provided septic tank pump outs to properties nearby to improve the creek’s water quality. Although this wasn’t connected to the spill, South East Water was prepared to take a “more holistic approach to support the overall improvement of the creek”. Service delivery general manager Simon Willis said it was important for the organisation
to restore the environment so badly affected. “We’ve taken this restoration to the next level by undertaking activities to improve the overall health of the creek, even beyond the spill area,” he said. “We saw fantastic results in a six-month follow-up survey of the dwarf galaxias. There are no lasting impacts from the spill and no evident impact to the strong breeding populations further downstream.” Tree roots causing blockages in sewer pipes are often to blame for sewer spills. Users should avoid putting food scraps, fats and oils down the sink and only flush the three Ps: pee, poo and paper down the toilet. They should plant trees away from pipes whose location can be found on property sewerage plans available from South East Water on 13 16 94. Nurseries can advise on which plants are more suitable near pipes. Details: southeastwater.com. au/pipes
Western Port News 23 June 2021
Trial makes no butts about it MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire has begun trialling smoke-free areas at various places this year to reduce butt litter and to encourage people to not smoke in public areas. The areas include the Safety Beach, Mount Eliza and Rye foreshores, the shire offices at Mornington, Hastings and Rosebud, Civic Reserve at Mornington and the Point Leo Foreshore area. The anti-smoking campaign is supported by beach patrol, community groups and Peninsula Health with the aim: “To make the peninsula happier, healthier and smoke free.” Another concern is that as cigarette butts are made of plastics they can take up to 10 years to decompose. The smoke free zones will be marked with signs urging people to butt out before entering. Where possible, butt bins or litter bins will be placed at entrances. Beach patrol, community groups and user groups will help the shire monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the smoke free trial to run for six months. “About 7.2 billion cigarettes are
Nominations open for Heritage Awards 2021 Mornington Peninsula Shire and the National Trust Mornington Peninsula branch are inviting nominations for the annual Heritage Awards. The awards recognise projects and people in our community who have demonstrated excellence in preservation, restoration and reuse of heritage places on the Mornington Peninsula. Our heritage includes public and private places, buildings, gardens and objects.
Heritage places are an integral part of the Mornington Peninsula community and the Mornington Peninsula Heritage Awards highlight and celebrate the importance of our heritage. Award categories include: • Restoration of a heritage place • Creative reuse of a heritage place • Sustainability and/or greening of a heritage place • Specialist heritage trade skills • Excellence in interpretive signage
Nominations close 26 July 2021. To nominate, complete the online form at: mornpen.vic.gov.au/heritageawards Or contact customer service: 1300 850 600
Mornington Peninsula Heritage Awards is a joint program of the National Trust Mornington Peninsula branch and Mornington Peninsula Shire.
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Clear air: Councillors Kerri McCafferty with Arlo, Despi O’Connor, Lisa Dixon, Antonella Celi, Safety Beach/Dromana Beach Patrol’s Lyn and Martin Dawes, and Cr Debra Mar. Picture: Supplied
littered in Australia each year,” the mayor Cr Despi O’Connor said. “Cigarette butts negatively impact on the environment, waterways and wildlife, and make up 48 per cent of all litter. “In 2019, about 35,400 cigarette butts were picked up across 16 Mornington Peninsula beaches on Clean up Australia Day. “This smoke free zone trial will help stop second hand smoke exposure, greatly reduce the amount of butt litter, protect our precious environment and reduce the health impact of smoking on our community.” An evaluation of the trial using butt litter data and community and beach patrol group feedback will gauge its effectiveness. Other groups participating include Peninsula Health, Safety Beach/ Dromana Beach Patrol, Wastewise Peninsula, Belgravia Leisure, Civic Reserve user groups, Josie Jones from The Only Butt campaign, and Point Leo Foreshore Committee. This trial is part of the shire’s Mornington Peninsula Smoke Free Environment Policy.
All eyes on boat ramp upgrades KEEN anglers at Hastings are anxiously watching progress on the boat ramp’s continuing redevelopment. Last year the works forced the closure of the ramp for the snapper season with one disgruntled angler saying this year’s planned works – once again – are “ill timed – a disaster for fishers”. “It is very likely another snapper season will be lost,” said Keith Thomas who has been fishing there “for ever”. “The work should have started in April and finished now,” he said. “The shire shows total disregard for users of the ramp. There is no consultation.” Hastings is the busiest ramp on Western Port with no other viable, all-weather ramp nearby. The Stony Point ramp is said to be overcrowded and Warneet – with no water at low tide – is unusable unless it has half tide. The tender for Stage 1 of the Hastings’ upgrade – dredging – has reportedly been let yet there was no confirmation of this on the shire’s website, Monday 21 June. Work was expected to begin next month. Tenders for Stage 2 – the pontoon – closed 19 May yet it is also unclear from the website whether that tender has been let. The contract time for works on the pontoon is 15 weeks, so, if they start at the end of this month they would likely be finished in October. The snapper season runs September-November. Westernport Angling Club’s Don Newman said, after speaking with Mornington Peninsula Shire, that the latest upgrade works would not be as intrusive as last year. “They are only going to block off one of the four ramps,” he said. “Most of the work will be from land and most of it will be done midweek and not on weekends.” But Mr Thomas said closing even one ramp would “cause chaos”. “They will have to rearrange the whole car park,” he said. Mornington Peninsula Shire was contacted for comment.
Push-ups a worthy challenge THOSE taking part in the Push Up Challenge on the Mornington Peninsula are helping raise money and awareness of mental health by putting the spotlight on the 3318 people who died by suicide in 2019. Alien Fitness, at Rosebud, is supporting Headspace in the challenge – from 1-25 June – in which participants do a push up for each of those no longer with us. The Alien team of 15 members and staff have so far raised more than $3500 for Headspace – far in excess of the $1000 target. “The Push-Up Challenge has been a great motivator for us during this time when gyms are closed and people at home are struggling with their own mental health,” Alien Fitness’s Leanne Maisano said.
Rose pruning: see how it’s done MORNINGTON Botanical Rose Garden has come through what members describe as an “incredible 18 months”. “Twelve months ago we were in the middle of COVID-19 and we weren’t allowed to prune our 4000 roses or to offer residents the opportunity to see how it is done,” volunteer Ron Fisher said. “Fortunately, we found a break in [last year’s] lockdown and hastily arranged for our 70 volunteers to prune their own beds as quickly as possible.” This year the gardeners have decided to start pruning now. “We have over 4000 roses in 100 beds and our 70 volunteers have already started pruning,” Mr Fisher said. Rose lovers are invited to come along at either 11am or 2pm this Saturday 26 June to see pruning demonstrations by experienced volunteers. The gardens are in Civic Reserve Recreation Centre, on the corner of Dunns Road and Mornington-Tyabb Road, Mornington. Details: Call 0435 641 898 or email morningtonroses@gmail.com
Zero carbon mandate Continued from Page 1 “Some people have suggested I am scaremongering, but I think people have a right to know,” he said after the council meeting. “We need to acknowledge that there are vulnerable members of the community who rely on natural gas in their day-to-day lives [who] cannot afford to transition. “The vote on Tuesday night affirmed that council will start the process of phasing out gas by elevating net-zero energy policies like the Climate Emergency Plan. I don’t believe energy policy is within the remit of local government.” Cr Holland pointed to comments by the shire’s principal strategic planner Claire Dougall on the agenda item the councillors voted on: “The project aims to advance ESD (Environmentally Sustainable Development) planning policy in Victoria, to achieve net-zero carbon and climateresilient development ... The Climate Emergency Plan commits council to achieving net-zero emissions across the shire by 2040”. Cr Holland said: “Net-zero carbon means no natural gas – not just for new builds. The only way net-zero by 2040 can be achieved is if existing gas appliances are phased out. Council has not made that clear to the community.” Cr O’Connor disagreed: “Tuesday night’s resolution did not see council vote to phase out natural gas from homes but rather to keep pursuing alternatives to finite resources, such as gas, to achieve economic and environmental benefits for the community”.
Member Elaine Bourke is supporting her “beautiful friend [who] lost her 21-year-old son nearly seven months ago”. “Every day is raw for me and unbearable for her,” she said. “Today is Day-17 of the challenge and I have completed 2356 push ups. If I could bring this young man back I would do 200 push ups every day; it’s just heartbreaking for everyone. “I wanted to do something to help young people.” Details: thepushupchallenge.com.au Worth the effort: Gym enthusiast Elaine Bourke and Alien Fitness’s John and Leanne Maisano are backing the Push Up Challenge. Picture: Yanni
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23 June 2021
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NEWS DESK
Awards honour peninsula residents Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au EIGHT Mornington Peninsula residents were named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, Monday 14 June. They received Medals of the Order of Australia in the General Division as announced by the Governor-General David Hurley AC DSC (Retd).
Sarnia Birch MOUNT Martha’s Sarnia Birch says Australia owes a debt of gratitude to its volunteers. “To be recognised for service to veterans and their families as a volunteer is an honour,” she said. “I have been greatly blessed in my life and one way of giving back is to help others.” The former lawyer has served Legacy Australia in a variety of senior positions as chair, vice-chair, director and member serving its 45 clubs and 4000 Legatees. Established in 1923 to “Look after the missus and kids” Legacy will celebrate its centenary in 2023. Ms Birch has been a Mornington Peninsula Legacy board member 2008-19 and member since 2004 holding a variety of positions. “We look after 800 beneficiaries on the Mornington Peninsula with many widows and families of servicemen from World War II,” she said. “We ensure they get all their financial entitlements and arrange other services if their families are not able to assist them.” Ms Birch is a warden of the Mount Eliza Anglican Church as well as parish secretary and office coordinator. She was on the Victoria Legal Aid Executive Team 2010-12 and its managing lawyer, 2003-09.
Richard (Dick) Cox SOMERVILLE Community Member of the Year 2020 Richard (Dick) Cox, of Tyabb, received his award for service to the community of the Mornington Peninsula. Mr Cox is a long-time member
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of the Rotary Club of Somerville Tyabb as well as president 2003-04 and 2009-10 and Assistant District Governor, 2011-13. His directorships include youth service, community service and major projects and in fundraising. He was a member on the Rotary Ride to Conference for 13 years and a Paul Harris Fellow with Sapphire. Mr Cox said his involvement in establishing Radio RPP in Mornington in 2009-11 was most satisfying. He and his team with community support managed the project for the shire with a $1.4 million budget but got it up and running for $400,000, he said. He has also been chairman, committee of management, of Somerville Community House, chair of the Tyabb and District Ratepayers Business and Environmental Group, member of the Western Port SeaGrass Partnership and reference groups for Blue Scope Steel, Port of Hastings, AGL, and Tyabb Airfield Precinct Plan. The former Port of Hastings Harbour Master, who retired in 2008, is a qualified ship’s master.
Barry Leonard Irving THE recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the Mornington Peninsula in 2017, Barry Leonard Irving, of Rye, was honoured for his service to the community of Rosebud-Rye. The Rosebud-Rye Rotarian was president 2001-02, 2003-04, 2009-10 and secretary and organiser, Rotary Ride to Conference, since 2000. He has been a director of Bendigo Community Bank since 2003. Mr Irving has been a First Division bowler, coach and greenkeeper at Rye Bowls Club since the 1980s. He won the Peninsula Novices Championship, and is a former chairman, greens committee, national accredited coach, umpire, greenkeeper and player at Sorrento Bowls Club. He is a volunteer at Gunnamatta Surf Lifesaving Club, former swim teacher at Tocumwal, manager and a coach at Belgrave Swimming Club. The former secretary and volunteer crewman at Southern Peninsula Rescue Squad has been part of the Australia Day Celebrations in Rye since 2003. He was a senior laboratory craftsman at the CSIRO for 17 years and head of the Laboratory Craftsmen Association. The keen photographer is a volunteer on the Rye Cemetery Trust and committee member of Rye Football Club and Netball Club. He is a member of Bike Safe and Rye Historical Society, a former leader, Salvation Army Boys Legion, volunteer and supporter of Rye and Dromana fire brigades, and the Rye Sports and Social Club. His awards include a Paul Harris Fellowship, 2003, Shire of Mornington
Western Port News 23 June 2021
Peninsula Mayoral Commendation, 2016, and Triple Sapphire Pin, 2013.
Tom McCullough A MOUNT Martha resident who came to Australia as a 20-year-old from Belfast in 1956 went on to realise his artistic talents in a range of mediums. Tom McCullough was honoured last week for his service to the galleries sector. Mr McCullough’s family settled at Mildura where he taught art. He went on to become director of the Mildura Arts Centre, 1965-1978, and curator, Mildura Prize for Sculpture, 1967. He was curator of the first Australian Sculpture Triennial in Melbourne in 1981, after a long stint as founder and curator of the Mildura Sculpture Triennial in the 1970s and ‘Sculpturscape 73’ at the fifth Mildura Triennial, 1973. He was artistic director of the Biennale of Sydney: Recent International forms in Art, 1976 and curator, Sculpture 75: young Australian sculptors, in Canberra, 1975. He was founding director of the Australian Gallery of Sport and Olympic Museum, 1985-1993, and gallery curator and director, Pit Space, Phillip Institute of Technology, Melbourne, 1978-1984. Mr McCullough, 85, said he was grateful for the award which was “totally unexpected”. “I have always had lots of support from my colleagues,” he said. Other awards include the Elliott Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Arts, Mildura, 2007, and the Gulbenkian Travelling Fellowship, Art Galleries Association of Australia, 1970.
Ross McKenzie RYE Cricket Club stalwart Ross McKenzie is like the old saying: “Love your job and you’ll never work a day in your life”. The life member, president and committee member over 25 years received his award for services to cricket and the
community of Rye. “You do it because you love it,” he said. “I was overwhelmed to receive the award because you never imagine you will get anything like it.” A colleague put it in perspective by telling him: “Just accept it and enjoy the moment.” Mr McKenzie, 54, began playing at Rye as a nine-year-old. “I was born and bred at Rye and have always been involved in cricket and footy,” he said, adding that his son, Michael, had now taken over as club president. Mr McKenzie praised wife Jackie for her support as well as Reg Chadwick and Graeme Vernon for “encouraging me to take on the president’s job”. He gave a special mention to Troy Harris who “was a big part of my time as president and also to all the committees which helped me over the years”. The life member and committee member of the Rye Sports and Social Club over 15 years has helped run the Rye Gift over 30 years.
Catherine Norman PENINSULA Home Hospice former president Catherine Norman, of Mount Eliza, said she was “delighted” to receive her award for services to aged welfare. Ms Norman was president of the hospice 2000-17, former board chair and member, 1998-2017, and founding member, 1985-2017. She has been a member, as well as being on the fundraising committee of the Mornington Auxiliary, since 2018 and is a life member. “It is a wonderful organisation,” said the resident of Mount Eliza for 55 years. “The people are thoroughly nice and decent.” Ms Norman has six children and is amazed she has been able to “keep this a secret for so long”.
Victor Charles Rodwell WESTERNPORT Travel co-owner and former treasurer of Western Port Tourism Association Vic Rodwell
received his award for services to the community of Hastings and Western Port. He has been chairman of Hastings Branch of the Bendigo Community Bank since 2005, and chairman/ president/treasurer and life member of the Western Port Chamber of Commerce and Industry for many years. Mr Rodwell said he was “just so thrilled to be nominated and chosen for such an award”. “It certainly wasn’t expected but it shows recognition of the work volunteers do in the community on a daily basis,” he said. “I initially saw volunteering as a means of putting something back into the community that was being so supportive of us in our new business. It all flowed from there and I’ve enjoyed every moment.” Mr Rodwell, a Hastings Football Club committee member, said highlights of his life included recognition and backing for the community bank and local support for the family of slain friend, colleague and businessman Dermot O’Toole. “Such is the Hastings and Western Port Community,” he said. “I am very happy to accept this award for my family, who have put up with me, and my many meetings, and for all of the volunteers that I have worked with over the years. We must be making a difference.”
Patrick Smith SPORTS journalist Patrick Smith, of Sorrento, was honoured for service to the print media as a journalist. The senior sports columnist was a sports journalist and sports editor at The Age, 1976-2000, before switching to sports journalism at The Australian, 2000-19. He was praised for his work in advocacy for the restriction of the use of whips in horse racing, and introduction of a racial vilification code in AFL football. Smith won three Walkley Awards – two for commentary and analysis: “The Colour of Money”, The Australian, 2004, and “The Moral Game”, The Australian, 2002, as well as for coverage of sport: “The Encosta De Lago Affair”, The Age, 1997. He was named Outstanding Columnist at the Australian Football League Awards, 2001-02. “It was certainly a surprise and I am chuffed,” he said. “I am also humbled by the response I have received from people. I am very honoured to be recognised for my contribution.”
Buoys are back in town ROUGH weather caused this large yellow buoy to break free from its mooring in the Pinnace Channel before washing up on Tootgarook beach between Weeroona Street and Marshal Avenue, last week. Parks Victoria notified the Victorian Fisheries Authority which was arranging for a marine contractor to recover the buoy which marks the boundary of an aquaculture fisheries reserve. The authority’s CEO Travis Dowling said “extreme weather conditions
over the past week has made recovering the buoy difficult from the water”. Beach access was being sought from Mornington Peninsula Shire Council with Mr Dowling saying they were “hoping to have the buoy removed by land in the next 24 hours”. Parks Victoria warned mariners about the buoy to ensure safe navigation around the Pinnace Channel aquaculture fisheries reserve which still has six functioning navigation aids.
Picture: Gary Sissons
FLINDERS pier with the wooden section on the lower right that has been earmarked by Parks Victoria for demolition.
Studies could change demolition decision THE fate of an old section of Flinders pier depends on whether it has any “significant heritage or environmental significance”, according to Nepean MP Chris Brayne. Parks Victoria will decide whether to demolish the pier based on assessments which are likely to be completed by the end of this month (June). “While the pier is not heritage listed at a federal or state level, the pier is listed on the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s heritage overlay,” Mr Brayne said. “If one, or both of these assessments come back with significant heritage or environmental significance, the department will not demolish it.” Mr Brayne’s suggestion of a lifeline
for the pier followed a public meeting at Flinders on Saturday 8 May added to calls to preserve the pier’s wooden section. The pier was built in the mid-19th century and reconstructed about 100 years later, with a new concrete section added in late 2011. News that the wooden section was under threat came in July 2020, when the Ports and Freight Minister Melissa Horne issued a media release headed Upgrading piers and jetties that included “the demolition of the inner section of the old Flinders Jetty in Western Port” (“Heritage pier faces partial demolition” The News 23/3/21). Objectors say the wooden section
should be kept for pedestrians. “As I told the public meeting, you can’t trust politicians with matters of importance to our peninsula community,” Cr David Gill said. “Money is already allocated to demolish [the pier] so now we get to a tick the box community consultation before they complete what they’ve planned to do.” A Parks Victoria newsletter “there is a health and safety problem now that the old wharf is partially closed off”. The objectors to demolishing the old pier say repairing some of the wooden pylons would allow it to be used by pedestrians and separate them from vehicles using the concrete section. Keith Platt
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23 June 2021
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NEWS DESK
‘Ridiculous figures’ justify kangaroo kill Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au THE judgement of some Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors has been questioned over their different attitudes to the slaughter of kangaroos and spider crabs. In February, Cr David Gill failed to get any support for his call on the state government to kangaroos being shot on the peninsula until scientific evidence could justify the killing. However, last month Cr Sarah Race was able to get every councillor to agree to sign a letter calling on the government to stop spider crabs being harvested from May to July, during their annual aggregation (“Spider crabs stay on the menu” The News 31/5/21). Two weeks after his initial failure Cr Gill was finally able to persuade councillors to accept a watered down version of his earlier motion. This time they agreed to shire officers investigating the management of kangaroos on the peninsula (“Science called in to probe apple-eating kangaroos” The News 9/3/21). “It’s a pity kangaroos didn’t receive the same level of councillor support as spider crabs,” Cr Gill said last week. He agreed that the taking of spider crabs while at their most vulnerable (during their annual moult) was cruel, but questioned his council colleagues’ judgement in not being so concerned about kangaroos being killed.
Picture: Yanni
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“Females and joeys are being shot from a distance and it’s not humane,” Cr Gill said. Some will get injured [rather than killed outright] and the joeys are bashed to death. “There are licences to shoot many hundreds of kangaroos on the peninsula as well as a harvesting program with unlimited numbers.” Meanhile, signatures are also being added to an online petition calling for an end to the culling and an accurate count of kangaroos on the peninsula to be presented to the Victorian Legislative Council in August. As well as being shot, kangaroos on the peninsula are being killed by cars and threatened by the illegal clearing of their native habitat. “It’s alarming how shooting kangaroos on peninsula can be justified considering their dwindling population,” Mary Waterman of the Mornington Peninsula Wildlife Working Group said. “We don’t really know how many kangaroos are here, but our group suspects the population is not nearly as high as farmers and DWELP (Department of Land, Water and Planning) continue to promote so they can continue shooting and ‘harvesting’ kangaroos on the peninsula.” Ms Waterman said she had seen an email from DWELP that estimated there were 7000 kangaroos on the peninsula in 2020 and 3500 in 2018. “Even if these overinflated figures were correct - how can the kangaroo
population double in two years? It’s not biologically possible,” she said. “The figures are just ridiculous ... we would be lucky to have 1000 kangaroos here.” The wildlife working group blames the inaccuracy of kangaroo numbers stems from DWELP never having counted kangaroos on the peninsula. Instead, it relied on aerial counts of kangaroos in Gippsland. “Aerial counting and extrapolating of figures methods done is dubious anyway,” Ms Waterman said. She said including the peninsula in the Gippsland region allowed landowners and farmers to invite KHP (kangaroo harvest program) licensed shooters to shoot kangaroos on their properties. “The KHP shooters will then take kangaroo carcasses with them, saving the landowners disposing of it.” The working group is training people to use the INaturalist app to “prove that the kangaroo population here is dwindling”. “A few landowners and locals have already started counting kangaroos and the next stage will be training more landowners and the wider public on the peninsula to count our kangaroos,” Ms Waterman said. Discussion had also been held with Mornington Peninsula Shire about “virtual fencing” and signs warning motorists to look out for kangaroos on six “hot spot” roads in Arthurs Seat, Main Creek, Dromana and Flinders.
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RELAXATION DESTINATION PAGE 3 WEDNESDAY, 23rd JUNE 2021
SOMERVILLE, TYABB, HASTINGS, BITTERN, CRIB POINT, BALNARRING, FLINDERS
Speak to your agent about listing on realestateview.com.au. Be seen everywhere.
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58 Bailey Boulevard, KOO WEE RUP
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The neat and tidy façade of this house gives very little away, however, this beautiful brick veneer home set on 650m2 is made for family gatherings and entertaining. Featuring an open plan design consisting of multiple living areas, including a double door theatre room for movie nights, there is a well-equipped kitchen with plenty of storage and stainless-steel appliances that overlooks the great space. This light-filled home includes 4 good-sized bedrooms with carpeted floors and ceiling fans, and to the spacious master bedroom is an ensuite and walk-in-robe. The stunning undercover outdoor entertaining area comes fully paved and with ceiling fans and looks out to the manicured lawn and backyard, perfect for kids and pets to play, and there is a handy garden shed for storage. From the street there is a drive through garage for extra parking, and as an added bonus, the home also has solar panels and is a short drive to the shops and amenities in town. This is the perfect family home, where all you need to do is move in and start living the dream.
PRICE VIEWING
$620,000 - $650,000
HASTINGS 03 5979 4177 69 High Street, Hastings, Vic, 3915 mpnews.com.au
JACQUI ROBINSON 0428 091 204
As Advertised Or By Appointment
KOO WEE RUP 03 5997 1899 48a Station Street, Koo Wee Rup, Vic, 3981
PHILLIP ISLAND 03 5922 9300 45 Thompson Ave, Cowes, Vic, 3922
Wednesday, 23rd June 2021
WESTERN PORT NEWS
Page 2
ON THE COVER
VIEWS AND OCEAN SOUNDS FROM THIS DREAMY PENINSULA ESCAPE SET at the highest point of a fabulous 9000 square metre block, perfectly positioned to capture the enchanting ocean views that lie over an undulating canopy of natural ti-trees, this cleverly designed residence is a showcase of customised quality finishes and inclusions with colours, shapes and materials brought together to stunning effect. The soothing sound of breaking waves at nearby St Andrews Beach creates an almost exquisite sense of isolation to the property; a sensation that is enhanced with the orientation of the home that casts outwards to the coastline and not across neighbouring rooftops. This truly captivating property has dual entry points; one arrives at the front of the home
HOME ESSENTIALS
and a double garage under the roofline, whilst the second leads to an extensive 70 square metre workshed, discreetly tucked away from the main home, that comes with threephase power. At the heart of the home is the fabulous kitchen providing a stylish central hub with its distinctive retro shaping. There are two ovens, a walk-in butler’s pantry and to the impressive island bench are elegant waterfall edge stone counter tops. To the left is a large formal dining room, positioned just right to treat dinner guests to the magnificent views, and to the opposite side of the space is an impressive open plan lounge with gas fireplace. From here there is excellent flow out to an undercover alfresco
deck overlooking the pool, while a second west-facing timber deck is where sunset drinks are an event not to be missed. It is however, the palatial master suite – with designer ensuite – that enjoys the best views in the house with giant windows providing a panoramic vista. Two more bedrooms with builtin robes share the contemporary family bathroom which has freestanding soaker tub and separate shower. This ultimate lifestyle package not only delivers the latest innovations for a life of comfort and convenience but also boasts resort class qualities such as a tiled mineral pool, a cosy firepit zone and sweeping lawns.n
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ADDRESS: 3/392a Sandy Road, ST ANDREWS BEACH AUCTION This Saturday, 26 June at 2:30pm PRICE RANGE: $2,200,000 - $2,400,000 DESCRIPTION 4 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car AGENT: Jarrod Carman 0423 144 102, Eview Mornington Peninsula, 311 Main Street, Mornington, 5971 0300
mpnews.com.au
Wednesday, 23rd June 2021
WESTERN PORT NEWS
Page 3
Cowes 2a Hereward Close
Beachfront Garden Sanctuary Auction to be held on site on the 26th of June 2021 at 11.30am (If not sold prior). TERMS 10% Deposit - Settlement 90 Days
4
2
Inspect Saturday From 10:30am
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This is a unique opportunity to secure a sensational foreshore property in an enviable position. Located on the stunning Cowes East/Silverleaves beach this highly sought after one acre seaside oasis boasts it’s own private beach access (on title) to the renowned ‘Lovers Walk’, and Phillip Island’s best North facing beach. Perfectly positioned in a tightly held prestige location, walking distance to the Cowes village, Phillip Island Golf Club and all Island attractions, you will never want to leave. Contact us today to secure your lifestyle dream
Joshua Dunstan 0407 558 933
52-54 Thompson Avenue, Cowes 5952 5100 obre.com.au
mpnews.com.au
Wednesday, 23rd June 2021
WESTERN PORT NEWS
Page 4
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
Is there an election coming? The flyers say it’s so... Got to be an election in the air. Three political statements on high quality 200gsm card nonrecyclable material. One pollie even puts “The Environment” as an important issue. Another swamps the message with miniscule screen photos of happy constituents mainly too young to vote but by heck let’s catch them young. The last usual suspect hails from the ACT and delivers the non-recyclable flyer into a dead cert ALP seat already occupied by one of theirs. What a waste of public money. We already have local councillors that recently must have spent record municipal amounts on multiple printed flyers bombarding the befuddled ratepayer into submission and “most pushed through the letterbox” candidate takes the prize. Have we poor mushroom voters been given access to the unusually large election printing costs? Our democracy of worse off by this mongrel millennial distortion of privilege. Print and be damned! The more responsible and incidentally the more experienced candidate didn’t spend other people’s money to get elected. We have at least one councillor in the Briars who wants us poor dummies to pay for his self-improvement course. How to be a director? Perhaps some empathy courses too just like some of the more senior pollies. Incidentally, one tip for the well-paid office staff who obviously are directed to desktop publish and forward to the printers, these wasteful cards, don’t expect voters to fill in community surveys if you print the fill in box in dark blue. Unless you supply a fluorescent pen or sticky white labels, so that us poor bunnies can actually write down the pearls of wisdom you need to help you understand the facts of life, issues, understanding the baffling graphics of hearts, light globes (most of us are into LEDS) and shaking hands (sorry should be elbows) then don’t bother. Ian Morrison, Mt Eliza
Party people Well John Cain, the “Get Up” political supporter, again has demonstrated his insulting and vexatious views per his letter (“Party Support” Letters 16/6/21). He rambles on about quote “not owning up to being a Liberal National Party supporter” unquote, because of his accusation about so called sleeze, yet he needs to look into the mirror about himself, and his continuous vindictive and unauthentic comments. It is so true with the well known axiom, “people who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones”, and he needs to get his facts correct, before making wild accusations, which is evident now, let alone his numerous past letters, resulting with the community getting fed up. True to form about his false claims about the Prime Minister and Federal Health Minister “dabbling” with Medicare, and cutting funding for some surgery, but again is far from the truth. The correct situation is that the LNP Government has not been involved with the matter at all, and that each year Medicare reviews their Medicare Benefit Schedule. Also the Australian Medical Association, highlighted from a recent media article, that more than 800 medical procedures were being reclassified, with some being removed and replaced by newer procedures which are medically appropriate. With respect to our Federal Health Minister, who we are privileged to have as our Member for Flinders, he appears now and previously to have a disingenuous and constant vendetta about him, and no doubt jealous, attributing to the incredible amount of benefits that Greg has worked so diligently to achieve for over the past 20 years for the wider community of his electorate. Have no doubt John Cain, they can sleep well at night, but wonder if you really can with all of this continuous unenlightened claptrap over the years that you are continually dreaming up. John F O’Hanlon, Capel Sound
Call to keep prayer I read with great disgust the front page article (“Judgement day for pledge posing as prayer” The News 15/6/21) that the Council is considering replacing the “Prayer” at the beginning of
Council Meetings with a thing called a “Pledge”. I totally object to any thoughts of replacing the prayer with any other introduction. Further I am totally disgusted that the Council has already been trying to slide this change through the Council Procedures without ratepayers really knowing about it. That amounts to deceit by the council. It is an example of Big Brother trying to manipulate local government for the benefit of gaining more government control over the ratepayers. Much the same as socialism does. This Pledge thing is longer than the Prayer and is very open to interpretation and manipulation by those in power to easily suit themselves. The Prayer does a much better job and “since there is nothing broken there is nothing that needs fixing”. I have been a Mornington ratepayer for 28 years and I object to this underhand manipulation. The Prayer has dignity and reflects the deep and democratic balance of how our society should operate. And has operated ever since the English first settled Australia in 1788. We live in one of the best countries in the world and it has developed that way under the Westminster system of government brought to Australia by our early settlers. We have a system of government that reflects the teachings of the Bible, particularly the second commandment “do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. This applies to Local Government just as much as it does to all levels of government in Australia and the prayer is a reminder of this. Our council meeting opening prayer must be retained and not be tampered with! Arthur Ranken, Mt Eliza
Five Minutes Of Fame It did not take newbie councillor Susan Bisinger long at all to achieve her “five minutes of media fame”, through the promotion of a ‘thought bubble’ in the form of sea baths at Portsea. Let’s hope she believes it has been a worthwhile experience, as I doubt that she would have endeared herself to the many constituents of her Nepean Ward, through naively expressing sympathies to the relevant government department by virtue of “continued source of frustration for DELWP... over the past decade”. How does she think that her constituents will feel reading her commentary, having worked and continuing to work - extremely hard over that decade on getting the state government (through DWLWP and the Minister) to remedy the problem that the previous Labor government actually created, rather than through placing band aids on a broken leg. A sea bath/rock pool will not restore a sandy beach to Portsea, which is the outcome the community demands. Drawing comparisons to a facility in suburban Sydney, demonstrates Cr Bissinger’s lack of commercial nous as. Other than both having sea water, there is nothing to compare Portsea and Bronte. Cr Bissinger makes no mention of the key issues of cost, risk and liability. Who will pay for the sea baths? Who is going to manage it? Who is going to underwrite the inherent risks? More evidence of a ‘thought bubble’! If she thinks it would be a good idea for the shire to assume these elements, then she need not worry about working on a re-election plan! Maybe it is not too late to get Cr Bissinger enrolled in the same course that Cr Marsh wishes to attend. Perhaps the Shire’s CEO can get a ‘job lot’ price and have all councillors attend the course; it may prove money well spent! Stuart Allen, Dromana
It amazes me that councillors would even entertain discussions on a directors course when ASIC (fundamentally the corporate regulator) administers the law on companies and directors very effectively. Therefore a directors’ rights, obligations or governance is best left to ASICs’ jurisdiction, to do otherwise is equivalent to expecting an ASIC employee to get involved with council bylaws. Competency and relevant decision making does not only befall on directors or councillors alone. As ratepayers we need to properly select our councillors to ensure they will not bankrupt our council through incompetence and overspending as it did the sixth largest council in Australia. We are already over governed with many unreasonable expenses needing to be maintained and funded by our ever increasing rates. We want, need, deserve better representation and value for our rates from our councillors (especially during such times). Our councillors (most of whom are underpaid for the hours they put in) need to be lateral and logical thinkers to ‘earn’ this very important and responsible position which they have volunteered for. Sadly I have witnessed and read dissentious remarks among councillors that demonstrates a council that needs to work cohesively to improve its game. Perhaps council should seek to (extend) the “Home Council governance and integrity Candidate Training requirements” (of the new Act) to use some of the $16,000 allocated to each councillor to train all councillors simultaneously. Paul Georgeson, Dromana
No Compassion
Following the border security debacle of the Rudd-Gillard years, during which Australia’s border security was surrendered to people smugglers, and thousands of illegal immigrants drowned at sea, the Abbott government, in 2013, established Operation Sovereign
Borders. Since then this policy has secured our borders so well that people smugglers have virtually given up telling their lies to those wishing to enter Australia illegally, and their voyages have dwindled to almost zero. Recently, however, activists, many of whom are associated with the Labor Party, see the Murugappan family from Sri Lanka, as a means to calculatedly destroy our secure borders under the guise of “compassion”. Because the parents in this family entered Australia illegally during the Rudd-Gillard years, they have been found repeatedly, even by the High Court of Australia, not to be genuine refugees. The Australian government should hold firm on this matter and return the whole family to Sri Lanka, where they belong, and where they will be perfectly safe. As for the activists, they should crawl back under a rock, which is where they belong! Michael Long, Frankston
Easy target Us conservationist get the blame for any troubles, mostly self inflicted by the few generations of land managers of the pale skin colour who wholeheartedly destroyed a landscape kept in pristine working condition over millenia by our indigenous Australians. The only reason the weedy willow ever needed to be introduced to Australia, is the destruction of our lowland forests along creek and river fronts by white squatters on Native Australian land. If present land managers and owners would take up the generouse subsidies for river and creek front native revegetation and fencing, the European willow would not have a place in Australia. It’s not the conservationist that are causing these troubles, it’s the thoughtless land managers who are the real villains. Rupert Steiner, Balnarring Beach
Fatal Flaw Firstly let me agree with councillor Anthony Marsh on his point on the importance of professional (and personal I must add) development. It will improve councillor decisions and performance. However the fatal flaw here is that the $8000 three day director training is totally unnecessary because this is amply covered and governed by ASIC and apart from basic understanding of directors obligations has little bearing. Western Port News
23 June 2021
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ACROSS 1. Blunder 7. Ravager 8. Concerning ships 10. Jingling percussion instrument 12. Ventured forth 14. Reside 16. Army car
17. Overexerted 20. Stylishly 23. Long claw 24. Feelings 25. Endorses
DOWN 1. Soft 2. Brave deed 3. Ewe’s young 4. Information item 5. Confessing 6. Selfish 9. Wolves’ homes 11. Fixation
13. Have a meal 15. Gymnastics event 16. Wrote quickly 18. Alcoholics 19. Jeans material 21. Arm bone 22. Tug sharply
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Western Port News 23 June 2021
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THE MEANING OF EXISTENCE... AND OTHER SHORT STORIES
The Reverse Oscar Wilde Puppet Vortex By Stuart McCullough IT started with my nephew. Without warning, he started making puppets. I’m not talking about a sock with a couple of buttons sewn on, but beautiful puppets that would make Jim Henson weep with envy. One is named ‘Terrence’ and he performed a puppet show that included fielding questions from the audience. It was quite brilliant. Within moments, I was flooded with nostalgia and my right arm went bolt upright as a matter of instinct. That’s because I know a thing or two about puppet shows – for I was a teenage puppeteer. I couldn’t tell you how it happened. I had no instinct whatsoever for needlecraft, design or costuming and none of the skills normally associated with puppetry. I didn’t even own a black skivvy and was way too young to cultivate an effective goatee. If you were designing a puppeteer from scratch, I would be more of a cautionary tale rather than a blueprint. But despite my shortcomings being both bountiful and profound, I built my own puppet. He was made of foam with blue material stretched across the frame; the end result was something that resembled a disaffected Smurf. The stitching was uneven meaning that the foam was pulled in various directions resulting in a head that would likely frighten small children. It’s fair to say that making a puppet that terrifies children means you’re alienating pretty much your entire potential audience. Having not worked out my design in advance, I was now forced to make the best I could out of the twisted puppetry wreckage in front of me. I glued
on some white carpet around the head, made some glasses out of wire and called him ‘Grandpa’. Despite his hideous appearance that terrified old and young alike, ‘Grandpa’ was quite the hit. Our youth group would perform puppet shows which, in reality, meant kneeling on
the floor with your arm above your head for extended periods of time until you thought it was about to fall off at the elbow. It was common that, mid show, due to severe arm-fatigue, Grandpa would start to become quite limp until he was pretty much hanging on the curtain, not moving very much,
prompting the other more spritely puppets to question whether Grandpa had experienced some kind of medical episode. In reality, I think they were just jealous. At some point during my teenage years, I made the obvious transition from puppetry to rock and roll, and left Grandpa behind. For those who might suggest that music and puppetry are not necessarily mutually exclusive – as One Direction so ably demonstrated – I can only say that I tried once to strum a Maton guitar while holding Grandpa and the results were not so much musical as they were flatout disastrous. I put Grandpa aside and for the past thirty years he’s been gathering dust. Until now. My father is strongly of the view that I should present my puppet to my nephew. I’m reluctant; the simple fact is that my nine year old nephew is making puppets that are greatly superior to anything I managed conjure up as a teenager. I shouldn’t care, but the truth is that I’m not ready to receive constructive criticism on my needlecraft from a nine year old. But my father was determined, and shoved a box containing the mortal remains of Grandpa in my direction. Time has not been kind to my puppet. I would have thought there was no greater depth for Grandpa to plumb, but I now stood corrected as I gazed upon what was left of my puppet. Then it struck me – when I constructed ‘Grandpa’, my father was the age I am now. In the intervening years, my father has gradually become more and more like the puppet. Just as Dorian Gray had a portrait ageing in an at-
tic; here, my father was catching up to Grandpa. It was kind of a reverse Oscar Wilde effect. Then it occurred to me – perhaps that was the reason he’d kept it all these years. That, somehow, my father and the puppet were inextricably linked. No matter what I did, it felt like the eyes of the puppet were following me as I moved around the house. In quiet moments alone, I think that I’ve heard the voice of my father before I spin around to see the puppet lying on the dining room table, it’s dead eyes staring at me. Eventually, I surrendered and put the puppet on my hand. It was amazing how natural it felt. But then it started to speak; telling me that it had a bundle of newspaper clippings and a carton of eggs in the car and that I should make sure I took time to collect them. It’s my father that’s speaking. In a sharp turn for the worse, I think I may have started speaking back… I’m not sure when I’ll be handing ‘Grandpa’ over to my nephew. What his puppet, ‘Terrence’, will make of Grandpa is anyone’s guess, but I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if Grandpa was about to find himself on the wrong end of a fairly nasty hazing ritual. He may deserve it. And so it is that the term ‘Master of the Puppets’ is not only the name of a Metallica album but a title passed on from one generation of my family to the next. For me, I’m happy to hand both the title and the puppet over to my nephew. My arm, however, is now stuck permanently above my head. This could be awkward. stuart@stuartmccullough.com
WHAT DO YOU THINK? HOW DOES IT MAKE YOU FEEL?
‘It makes me feel disturbed.’ ‘What is that guy doing up there?’ ‘That place looks familiar.’ ‘I’d love this painting on my wall.’ MORNINGTON PENINSULA REGIONAL GALLERY FREE ENTRY Open Tuesday–Sunday 11am–4pm
Euan Macleod From Above (Mornington Peninsula) synthetic polymer on polyester 100.0 x 124.0 cm
EXHIBITIONS / ARTIST TALKS / WORKSHOPS / KIDS PROGRAMS / ONLINE ACTIVITIES AND MORE – Civic Reserve, Dunns Rd, Mornington, Victoria mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au Western Port News
23 June 2021
PAGE 19
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100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...
Tyabb get the better of Langwarrin Compiled by Cameron McCullough OUR special representative at Tyabb writes: There was a fair attendance of spectators at the match between Langwarrin and Tyabb on the Tyabb oval last Saturday. The local team played far superior football than against Hastings the week before, and were never hard pressed by their opponents. Some nice hand ball passing by the maroons, especially by their forward men, was witnessed. The game was of a very fast and friendly nature; hard knocks being given and taken with true sporting spirit. The outstanding feature of the day’s play was the large number of behinds kicked by the local team. Several easy shots by the maroon forwards went to the wrong side, and three times the post was hit. The Tyabbians were unlucky not to have won by a larger margin than 10 points as their team, playing fine football, with nice system and plenty of dash, always looked the winners. It was the finest effort yet shown by the local team for the season and it should inspire them on to yet greater efforts. The final scores were: Tyabb, 2.16 (28 points) Langwarrin, 2.6 (18 points) Practically every player in the maroon jacket was prominent at some stage or another of the match, but the most conspicuous were Scanlan, Longmuir, Golding, Les Cole, Slocome, Storey, Morrow, L. Thornell, while Reg. Borley, Alan Hodgins,
Lewis Cole, Russell and A. Noble were among those who battled hard for the victors. For the losing side, Cain, Adderly, Bond, Franklin, Males, and several others unknown to the writer shone out. Connell umpired the match. Our Tyabb scribe further writes: I think the duel next Saturday, between Frankston II and Tyabb, on the Frankston oval will be the match of the season. The maroons are confident, and no doubt the Frankstonites fancy their own chance. Anyhow, may the better team win. Having seen most of the Second Association teams in action, I consider that Frankston, Hastings and Tyabb are, so far, the best clubs. I predict one of these three teams will be premiers. Scanlan played a good, dashing game for Tyabb against Langwarrin. Both in marking, kicking and general play he was always foremost for the winners. *** IN connection with the forthcoming municipal elections it is stated that Mr Geo. May has been strongly urged to allow himself to be nominated as one of the candidates for the new Mt. Eliza Riding, and he has given a favorable reply to his supporters. *** IN connection with the Beaconsfield tragedy, Detective Commons interviewed two suspects at Frankston on Wednesday last, but he was satisfied that they did not know anything about the tragedy.
They were allowed to proceed on their way to Bittern. *** OWING to a late influx of advertisements, our Picture Notes are crowded out this issue. The principal picture tomorrow night is “The Yellow Typhoon”, featuring Anita Stewart, supported by Marie Osborne In “The Sawdust Doll”. *** A NEW wood and coal yard has been opened in Frankston and is situate in Playne Street near the Savings Bank. The proprietors are Messrs Harrison and Golds, of Mornington, both returned soldiers and prominent in local football circles. Mr Golds, who has taken up his residence in Frankston is in charge. Full particulars are given in advertisement appearing in another column. *** ON Wednesday evening next in the Frankston Hall the “Chelsea Sunbeams” will submit an entertaining concert programme. The proceeds are to be devoted to Salvation Army work. *** AFTER five years residence in Frankston, Mr Jack Stewart, engineer and machinist at the Naval Base, has gone to reside at Hastings. *** MR J. Bradbury has installed an upto-date grindery at his place on Mornington Road. This is the first of its kind installed on the Peninsula. Mr Bradbury has a advertisement elsewhere in todays issue.
*** WHEN a verdict of guilty was announced in the Civil Court on Thursday, the accused, Vincent Leo Hyndes, formerly of Frankston, whipped out a revolver, and placing it to his temple, fired, but the cartridge failed to explode. Hyndes was charged with defrauding the Returned Soldiers’ League, and was remanded for sentence today. *** FOR Children’s Hacking Cough Use Woods Great Peppermint Cure *** A LETTER, replying to Mr Joseph Unthank, re shire matters, was received too late for publication this week. It will appear in next issue. *** MR F. Addicott, who was thrown from his cart last week and severely injured, is making satisfactory progress under the care of Dr. Maxwell. *** REGISTERED Dentist, “ELGIN,” Melbourne Road, Frankston. Two Doors from Beach Street. PAINLESS EXTRACTIONS. Hours—9 a.m. to 5 p.m. *** REPATRIATION Notes Returned Soldiers are invited to apply to this Committee for advice before entertaining business proposals of any kind. Those Soldiers and Dependents needing assistance, sustenance, &c.. are hereby notified that by personal application to any of the undersigned members of committee, forms and advice may be obtained:
Messrs Oates (chairman), C. Gray, W. S. Hartland, S. Sherlock, W.P. Mason, T. J. McMurtrie and E. Barrett. Employers are requested to notify the Committee of any vacancy suitable for returned men. Persons having Businesses or Property, &c., to sell suitable to Returned Soldiers are earnestly invited to communicate particulars to the Committee. E. BARRETT, Hon Sec, Repatriation Frankston. *** MENTONE Grammar School. J. A. Ball. Head Master. Day and Boarding School for Boys Reopens February 16. Boys prepared for university or commercial life. School on high situation near the beach. Sea bathing; individual attention; home comforts. For further particulars apply to the Head Master, Tel Chelt. 141. *** THAT Oswald Olsen has For Hire the 1921 BUICK MODEL CAR – the most up-to-date car on the Peninsula. Address – “Albury,” Young Street, Frankston, or care of McKinnon’s Royal Automobile Club House, Frankston. Day and Night Service. Phone 14. *** ADVERTISER with £100 to invest prepared to enter into partnership in desirable business – Worker, this office. *** FROM the pages of the Frankston and Somerville Standard, 17 June 1921
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Western Port News
23 June 2021
PAGE 21
scoreboard WESTERN PORT
Sharks struggle, Redlegs just best Bombers
DIVISION ONE
By Brodie Cowburn THE stripped-back MPNFL season has restarted. After a three week delay due to COVID-19, players returned to the field last weekend. The sounds of bone crunching tackles, ball on boots, and coaches’ sprays filled the air, but the familiar roar of the crowd was absent. Despite the lack of audience, the competition’s top teams still hit the ground running.
Top of the ladder Frankston YCW cemented their spot with a big win over Pines. It was a complete team performance by the Stonecats, who had 13 individual goalkickers. Luca Goonan and Luke Paynter were their best. A seven goals to one second term put the game to bed by half time. Frankston YCW ran out winners 16.13 (109) to 6.4 (40). Sorrento’s troubles this season have continued. The Sharks fell to defeat at the hands of Rosebud. The Sharks have endured a diffi-
Madsen Reserve to restart their seasons. The Redlegs had a good first half, but it was not without frustrations. They kicked 4.11 to take a 20 point lead into the second half. The Bombers also struggled to kick straight, booting 1.9 in the first half. The Bombers poured on the pressure in the third term, kicking 6.8 in the third term to close the lead to just one point. Both sides traded blows in a tense final quarter, but it was Mt Eliza who came out on top. The Redlegs held
cult time this season, falling short of the high standards expected of them. They have also recently parted ways with coach and gun player Luke Tapscott. Rosebud took advantage of the out-of-form Sharks, working hard to claim an important win. Three goals from Thomas Baker helped them to a 9.6 (60) to 6.11 (47) victory. The result sees Rosebud overtake Sorrento and move into fifth spot on the ladder. Sorrento is sixth. The Mt Eliza and Frankston Bombers played out a thriller at Emil
onto their lead, eventually claiming victory by just a solitary point 12.14 (86) to 11.19 (85). Red Hill suffered a tough loss at home on Saturday. They were defeated by Dromana by just four points. The Tigers kicked six goals to zero in the first quarter. Although the Hillmen worked hard to get back into the contest, it was too little too late. Dromana won 7.12 (54) to 8.10 (58). Bonbeach claimed a comfortable win against Edithvale-Aspendale 7.6 (48) to 15.26 (116). Joseph Fisscher kicked five goals.
Kangaroos pick up where they left off DIVISION TWO
By Brodie Cowburn IT was business as usual for Langwarrin last weekend as the Division Two competition got back underway. The Kangaroos have been unstoppable this season, and remain perched atop the ladder. They continued their winning run on Saturday with a comfortable victory over Devon Meadows. Devon Meadows couldn’t get close to the Kangaroos, who ran away with it. The Panthers only scored five goals all afternoon. In just his second senior match of the season, Langwarrin’s Zac Foot stamped his authority. He scored six goals in a best-on-ground showing. The final score read Langwarrin 18.20 (128) to Devon Meadows 5.5 (35). Crib Point battled bravely on Saturday, but fell just short of victory against Rye. The 11th placed Magpies came out of the COVID-19 break refreshed. They kept touch with the Demons all day, and trailed by just three points heading into the final term. Despite Crib Point’s efforts, Rye was
Who let the dogs out?: Mornington made it look easy with a 62 point win over Pearcedale. Picture: Alan Dillon
GOLF COURSE COMPETITON
WINNER Congratulations Rob Dolley from Sandhurst on being the lucky winner of the Golf Course Competition, which appeared in this paper in March.
Rob has won a year’s supply of Callaway Chrome Soft Golf Balls, thanks to MPNG and Callaway Golf South Pacific. PAGE 22
Western Port News 23 June 2021
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just too strong. The Demons claimed a narrow win 8.17 (65) to 7.15 (57). Nicholas Strickland was Rye’s best. Chelsea got the better of Hastings in a tight contest on Saturday. Both sides were evenly matched throughout the afternoon. Heading into the last quarter, Chelsea led the Blues by just eight points. Both sides could only add one more goal each to their tally in the final term. Chelsea held on to win by 11 points 10.13 (73) to 8.14 (62). Curtis Bywater was at his best, scoring five goals. His tally for the season stands at 28 goals from nine games. Mornington were in fine form in front of goal on Saturday, kicking 24.5 to comfortably defeat Pearcedale. Jackson Calder was unstoppable. He kicked eight goals for the afternoon, and has now kicked 50 for the year. James Cameron chimed in with six goals of his own. Pearcedale kept touch throughout the first half, but were blown away in the third term. Mornington kicked 12 goals for the quarter. Pearcedale forward Luke Daniel worked hard, kicking seven goals. Mornington eventually ran out winners 24.5 (149) to 12.15 (87). They sit third on the ladder, behind Seaford on percentage. Seaford held onto second spot with a 16.11 (107) to 8.9 (57) win over Somerville. Karingal dispatched Tyabb with ease at Bunguyan Reserve. The Bulls charged to victory 5.10 (40) to 21.10 (136).
WESTERN PORT scoreboard
Doree departs, double for Pace SOCCER
By Craig MacKenzie BEN Doree has been forced to quit Peninsula Strikers and has signed with Richmond. The leading scorer in State 2 SouthEast has had a change to his work circumstances and found it too difficult to continue to travel back and forward from his Altona residence. Doree’s goalscoring has been a pivotal part of Strikers’ league campaign so head coach Paul Williams is tasked with covering for his prolific striker’s absence. Last weekend Williams paired youngster Jai Power with Riley Anderton up front but neither had a major impact on what proved to be a dismal day for the local club going down 1-0 to second bottom side Mooroolbark at Centenary Park. “Young Jai with a bit more confidence is a goalscorer, we’ve got Aaran (Currie) and Riley (Anderton) was in double figures pre-season so we know we’ve got goals in this team,” Williams said. The Barkers can thank a wonder strike from outside the area in the 12th minute from Max Soloyev that gave Strikers’ keeper Robbie Acs no chance. Neighbouring State 2 outfit Skye United won 4-0 against North Caulfield at Skye Recreation Reserve on Sunday evening. Caleb Nicholes (2), Marcus Collier and Jason Nowakowski were the scorers. The result leaves Skye fourth in the league just two points off second-placed Collingwood City. In NPL2 Langwarrin earned a valuable away point following Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Manningham United. Anton Nardella put Manningham ahead from close range in the 42nd minute but in the 70th minute a Slaven Vranesevic shot struck the near post and Luke Gallo tucked away the rebound. In State 1 Mornington stayed on
Bye, bye Ben: Aspendale striker Adrian Pace (left) grabbed a double last weekend while Peninsula Strikers gaffer Paul Williams has lost leading scorer Ben Doree. Pictures: John Punshon and Darryl Kennedy
course for an NPL berth with a 3-2 away win over South Springvale last weekend. Two Josh Heaton headers either side of a superb chip from distance by Luke Goulding had Mornington 3-0 up after 28 minutes. Right on half-time Cody Martindale made it 3-1 and a minute into the second half Tim Atherinos made it 3-2. South Springvale had a great chance to level in the final minute but Taylor Davidson’s stunning point-blank save from a header was backed up by Heaton who cleared off the line. Midfielder Kane Bentley made an impressive comeback to the Mornington line-up after his recent return from China. In State 3 Frankston Pines remained on course for its first league title since 2014 with a 3-1 away win over Brighton that sent the local side 10 points clear at the top of the league. Pines failed to convert from the spot in the 2nd minute but Jordan Avraham and Joe O’Connor combined in the 12th minute to set up Sava Baledrokadroka for the opener. In the 27th minute Avraham broke at pace then played the ball to O’Connor who fired across the keeper into the corner from a tight angle to make it 2-0. Early in the second half Pines keeper Aeseli Batikasa collided with Simon
Webster and was stretchered off and replaced by Jarrod Nardino. Brighton hit back in the 49th minute and a late Simon Webster penalty rounded off the scoreline. Both sides finished with 10 men. Pines stalwart and league top scorer CJ Hodgson, filling in at right back, was cautioned twice and sent off in the 85th minute and Brighton captain Michal Knott joined him in the 88th minute after clashing with Tito Vodawaqa. In State 4 Seaford United’s bid for promotion hit a brick wall at Reema Reserve on Saturday when it crashed to a 6-2 defeat by Endeavour United. Harry McCartney reports that Seaford was rarely in this contest and was 3-0 down after 30 minutes. A poor pass back from Jeremy Schwellinger in the 8th minute set up a 50/50 challenge between his keeper Hayden Hicks and Endeavour’s Alex Cunha with the latter coming out on top and stroking the ball into an unguarded goal. In the 17th minute a quickly taken free-kick caught out the Seaford defence and although Hicks effected a left-footed save Maqsod Mansuri was able to tap in from close range. Another Seaford defensive error in the 38th minute allowed Cunha to grab his second but two goals in a fiveminute burst late in the half from Blake
Hicks and Dylan Waugh brought Seaford back into the contest. Harry Herouvim made it 4-2 in the 62nd minute and in the 75th minute Zaharia Forsyth was put through and beat the advancing Hayden Hicks to make it 5-2. The home side finished off its opponent when Herouvim nabbed his second in the 86th minute. Somerville Eagles and promotion challenger Sandown Lions had to settle for a point apiece at Tyabb Central Reserve on Saturday when they drew 3-3. Recent Eagles’ signing Roneel Kumar from East Bentleigh made his debut off the bench in the second half. Zach Karolidis put the home side ahead in the 23rd minute following up a Greening volley well saved by Sandown keeper Riad Dagher but Duol Kuei scored from the spot two minutes later. A superb half-volley from Karolidis made it 2-1 in the 29th minute but five minutes from the interval a Gatwech Kuichloch header made it 2-2. An audacious Greening overhead kick four minutes into the second half made it 3-2 but an excellent header from Dobuol Kong in the 68th minute secured a point for the visitors. The only local State 4 side to win last weekend was Chelsea who defeated FC Noble Hurricanes 1-0 at Alex Nelson Reserve on Friday night. It was Chelsea’s first away win this season and came in spectacular style thanks to a Max Timuska-Carr overhead effort in the 15th minute. Baxter lost 4-0 away to Dandenong South. George Hughes’ side went behind to an early penalty that earned a booking for defender Matt McDermott who was given a second caution after a late challenge in the 23rd minute and 10-men Baxter had a mountain too big to climb. In State 5 an Adrian Pace brace helped Aspendale Stingrays stay in the promotion mix with a 4-2 home win over Knox United last weekend.
The weather forced the match to be switched from Jack Grut Reserve to Aspendale Gardens Sports Centre due to the pitch conditions. The sides were locked at 2-2 at halftime with Aspendale’s goals coming from Hayden Nuhanovic and Sam Timuska-Carr. Matt Bruce had stood out in the reserves match and came off the Aspendale bench in the 58th minute to great effect. He set up Pace’s goals in the 75th and 87th minutes in a fine second-half performance from the home side whose best were Ryan Maokhamphiou, Noah Berends and Pace. Rosebud earned a point with a 1-1 away draw against South East United while Mount Martha lost 3-0 away to White Star Dandenong. Iglia Malisan scored for the ’Buds but the home side levelled in the 88th minute. Craig White has returned to Rosebud after leaving early this season due to work commitments. NEXT WEEK’S GAMES: Friday 25 June, 8.30pm: Doncaster Rovers v Peninsula Strikers – Anderson Park Chelsea v Endeavour Utd – Edithvale Recreation Reserve Saturday 26 June, 3pm: Northcote v Langwarrin – John Cain Memorial Park Mornington v Warragul Utd – Dallas Brooks Park Skye Utd v Old Scotch – Skye Recreation Reserve Elwood City v Frankston Pines – Elwood Park Seaford Utd v Somerville Eagles – North Seaford Reserve FC Noble Hurricanes v Baxter – Alex Nelson Reserve Mount Martha v Bunyip District – Civic Reserve Aspendale Stingrays v South East Utd – Jack Grut Reserve Hampton Park Utd v Rosebud – KM Reedy Reserve
Brooklyn to thrive with extra trip HORSE RACING
By Ben Triandafillou DEAN Krongold has no doubts over Brooklyn Hustle running a strong 1400m in the Group One Tattersall’s Tiara on Saturday 26 June. The inform mare has won her last two starts in the G3 Proud Miss Stakes (1200m) and G2 Dane Ripper Stakes (1300m) impressively and takes the step up to the seven furlongs for the first time in her career. Krongold, who trains in partnership with Jason Warren, said it’s always been their intentions to get the mare over more ground. “We’ve always thought the more she steps out the better she’ll be provided she settles off that sort of tempo,” Krongold said. “She’s a lot more seasoned this time in and her
dam (Joint Aspiration) suggests she could even get to a mile to a mile and a quarter.” After partnering Brooklyn Hustle to Group Two success last start, jockey Craig Williams has made the decision to ride another runner in the G1 Tattersall’s Tiara on Saturday. Williams will again combine with the Michael Moroney-trained Tofane who he won the G1 Stradbroke Handicap aboard a fortnight ago. Krongold said a jockey is yet to be confirmed for Saturday’s contest. “(Craig Williams) will ride Tofane which is probably understandable in the circumstances,” he said. “He’s a great fella, Craig. He’s even offered to help us out and ride her in her final gallop. He’s keen to stick with her in the future should she be
BECOME A CRICKET UMPIRE IT’S YOUR CALL!
active in the Spring.” Despite Williams hopping off, Krongold is confident the Dane Ripper form will once again hold up in the Tattersall’s Tiara. History is on their side with six winners of the last 10 Tatt’s Tiara’s coming through the Dane Ripper Stakes. Three of them, Invincibella (2019), Cosmic Endeavour (2014) and Red Tracer (2013) all completed the double. “You can’t be nothing short of impressed with her win (in the Dane Ripper Stakes),” Krongold said of Brooklyn Hustle’s last-to-first victory. “If she gets clear running, she can reel off some explosive sectionals and we saw that a fortnight ago. Provided she gets the luck she needs, she’ll be there abouts again.”
Back-to-back: Brooklyn Hustle makes it two wins on the trot by taking out the G2 Dane Ripper Stakes at Eagle Farm on Saturday 12 June. Picture: Supplied
The Mornington Peninsula Cricket Umpires Association (MPCUA) is seeking to recruit both newcomers and experienced umpires to its ranks for the 2021-22 season and beyond – female and male applicants are most welcome. • • • •
Open To New Recruits (Training Provided) Are you an Ex-Player keen to stay involved in the Game? Saturday Afternoons 1 - 7pm Attractive Match Payments
For further details or an expression of interest please contact: Paul Tuff, Director of Umpires – 0417 169 718 paultuff@bigpond.com Garry Seaborne, Secretary – 0422 432 915 garry.j.seaborne@gmail.com Western Port News
23 June 2021
PAGE 23
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Western Port News 23 June 2021