Western Port News 23 September 2020 by Mornington Peninsula News Group

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Wednesday 23 September 2020

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Shire zoning ‘makes no sense’: mayor Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire is pressing the state government to classify it as a region – and not part of metropolitan Melbourne – to liberate it from the stage four coronavirus restrictions. The shire says the harsher zoning “makes no sense on several levels and is unsafe”. In 1966 the entire peninsula was included in the metropolitan statistical area. The mayor Cr Sam Hearn in a letter to Premier Daniel Andrews last week blamed “lines on an administrative map and not any COVID-19 specific considerations” for its inclusion into the Melbourne metropolitan area. He said a letter from Chief Health Officer Dr Brett Sutton on 19 August confirmed that stage four restrictions were “implemented across the [Health] Department’s metropolitan region, including all metropolitan local government areas”. “This includes Mornington Peninsula, despite the nomenclature of [it] being a shire,” Dr Sutton had said. “All non-metropolitan region LGAs were not included in the stage four restrictions.” Cr Hearn said the “arbitrary classification with its oppressive restrictions aimed at clamping down on the spread of the coronavirus is stifling business on the peninsula and the social interaction that would rejuvenate it when there are no cases of the virus and none for at least the past 14 days”. The DHHS on Sunday said the peninsula had one active case and had recorded 183 overall. It is especially galling when other parts of regional Victoria with similar or even higher case numbers, including neighbours Bass Coast, Queenscliff, Geelong and Surf Coast, have progressed to stage two and are well on the way to re-opening for business as usual. Cr Hearn said Queenscliff had highlighted problems for its own recovery of having the peninsula in a different category. “In effect we are the missing link in the creation and operation of a coastal corridor of all regional areas,” he said. This is preventing the reactivation of the muchhyped tourism and hospitality economies.

The shire’s plea comes as a 10,382-signature online petition is also urging the state government to rethink the peninsula’s stage four status. Organisers want the peninsula excluded from metropolitan Melbourne and are aiming for more than 15,000 signatures. Originator Mandy White said the peninsula, with low numbers of active COVID-19 cases, had been forced into lockdown with the rest of Melbourne. She said the peninsula was not classified as part of metropolitan Melbourne when it came to infrastructure spending but had been “clumsily lumped” into this category as part of the COVID-19 restrictions. Ms White said more than 6000 jobs had been lost on the peninsula, which had suffered a 21 per cent fall in gross regional product (compared with a 6.9 per cent drop for Australia) and an 11 per cent drop in employment opportunities. Business group the Committee for Mornington Peninsula called for the peninsula to have regional status after hosting a meeting of the state Opposition’s Shadow Cabinet at Rosebud in August. The 50-member committee told Opposition leader Michael O’Brien that classing the peninsula as metropolitan was “hurting business and causing job shortages and lost government grants”. Earlier this month the committee reported that many local businesses were “on the brink” as a result of the stage four restrictions (“Call for urgent road-out plan” The News 8/9/20). President Shannon Smit said: “Our research shows many hospitality and retail businesses are on the brink and in desperate need of hope and a road out of the current punishing business conditions on the peninsula.” Cr Hearn said the stricter stage four classification, which had nobbled the shire’s community services activities, made “no epidemiological sense and posed serious health risks” on several fronts. He cited ongoing lack of support and services for vulnerable families and people sleeping rough; large numbers of isolated seniors, hospitality workers trapped at home and tradespeople unable to work.

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Gut wrenching: Search and Rescue Dogs Australia’s Julie Cowan surveys the damage at Crib Point with Labrador Tank. Picture: Gary Sissons

Thieves trash search dogs’ depot THIEVES who broke into a shipping container at Crib Point last week stole specialist equipment used to train search and rescue dogs. They also vandalised other equipment causing an overall loss of $3300. Search and Rescue Dogs Australia’s Julie Cowan said: “This is the third time we’ve been targeted. After all we’ve gone through with COVID-19 and with business down the sewer – now we are hit with this.” Ms Cowan, of Somerville, said an angle grinder had been used to cut through four padlocks to access the container on the Esplanade sometime over the 12-13 September weekend. “We thought we were safe with a shipping container, but obviously not.” Equipment stolen or wrecked included ladders, agility equipment, Honda lawn mower, gazebo, Jumbuck barbecue, trolley, brooms, sway bridge, and trestle table. “We are over all this,” Ms Cowan said. “We bought the gazebo to give the dogs some shade and that’s gone. “We use the agility equipment to train the Advertisement

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dogs to work in collapsed buildings. It took a lot of time to make the sway bridge but they’ve just jumped on it and trashed it.” The Cowans received a grant to buy the container this time last year after thieves continually vandalised their portable shed. “It is gut wrenching,” Ms Cowan said. “These scum don’t realise the damage and the trouble they cause.” Dogs from the volunteer-run, not-for-profit group are brought in to search for missing people, such as autistic boy William Callaghan, who was missing for three days at Mount Disappointment, north of Melbourne, mid-last year. (“No disappointment with Obi on track, The News, 15/6/20). The dogs find people by air scenting, not tracking.. Ms Cowan, who runs the service with her husband, Andrew, said two of their dog teams deployed following the 2009 Black Saturday bush fires were the first dog teams in Australia to receive the National Emergency Medal. Stephen Taylor

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Western Port News

23 September 2020

NEWS DESK

Wall collapse leaves fishers high and dry Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au THE collapse of the steel cofferdam around the new Hastings boat ramp has thrown the reopening of fishing into jeopardy. Work to complete potentially the busiest ramp in Western Port, which started 20 July, is now behind schedule and will not be completed in time for the remainder of the snapper season. The cofferdam is a four-metre high dam or rectangular wall of sheet steel driven into the mud. Once erected water is pumped out to provide a dry area so workers can construction the all-tide concrete ramp and walkway. The deepest, most vulnerable section buckled under the weight of a high tide on Thursday 10 September with the exact cause of the failure being investigated. A crane was brought in on Thursday to remove the buckled steel and prepare for another attempt at erecting a wall. Fishing identity David Kramer said the “disaster” had set the Hastings boat ramp replacement “back to square one”. “I am fuming, but it’s not the contractor’s fault as things do go wrong.” Mr Kramer said delays in getting the project started and putting it at the mercy of high spring tides, were always going to be problematic. “I told the authorities not to start this late,” he said. “The big tides do not start for another week, so god knows what they are going to do. “Better Boating Victoria have just proved they are incompetent.” Mr Kramer said building the new

THE watertight steel wall erected to enable workers to build the new boat ramp at Hastings has collapsed, above, causing delays for the project and problems for fishers once the COVID-19 restrictions are eased. Pictures: Gary Sissons, above, and supplied boat ramp should be postponed until May with fishers allowed to use the existing four-lane ramp. He said alternative ramps at Warneet and Stony Point “simply won’t be able to handle the traffic when COVID-19 restrictions ease”. “With no AFL or kids’ sports, we saw record numbers of people fish-

ing from May to July. It is not going to be a pleasant November in Hastings unless this project is abandoned until next winter.” Mornington Peninsula Shire’s manager project delivery Derek Rotter said the Marine Parade construction site had been “made safe and the contractor is working quickly to get the pro-

ject back on track”. The works were planned in two stages: replacing the existing boat ramp with a longer ramp and a connecting walkway between the new boat ramp and the existing floating pontoon and dredging to accommodate the extended ramp and enable access during all tide levels. The works for stage two

were planned for delivery late this year or in the first half of 2021. “At this stage it is too early to say how this [cofferdam collapse] will affect the timetable for delivery, but we remain hopeful that it will have a minimal impact on the project,” Mr Rotter said.

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Western Port News 23 September 2020

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Western Port News

23 September 2020

NEWS DESK

Cancer gives Kyle a reason to run KYLE Llewellyn, who was diagnosed with cancer twice as a child, is not one to take it easy. Later this month he will tackle the gruelling 4x4x48 Challenge to mark the end of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Mr Llewellyn, 20, of Rosebud, will run four miles (6.4km), inside every four-hour block over 48 hours on 29-30 September. The aim is to encourage children with cancer to focus on something positive to help get them through their treatment and to never lose sight of their goals. “I hope that by doing this challenge I can show kids currently going through treatment that at the end of it, they’ll be able to do some amazing things in life,” Mr Llewellyn said. He is also raising money Redkite, the childhood cancer support charity which supported him and his mother through his two cancer diagnoses. Mr Llewellyn has already raised $2000 with his Kids with Cancer fundraiser and hopes to raise $5000 by month’s end. If lockdown restrictions are still in place then, he will do his running on a treadmill at home. “It’s important to keep positive and to look forward to what’s on the other side of it,” he said. To support Mr Llewellyn visit his donation page: supportredkite. everydayhero.com/au/kids-withcancer-fundraiser

Plea to curb drug overdose toll Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au FRANKSTON had 71 unintentional overdose deaths between 2014 and 2018, making it the third highest of any Victorian region. The Mornington Peninsula, with 50 recorded deaths, was fifth on the list of 14 regions listed by the Penington Institute. Topping the list of unintentional overdose deaths was Geelong, with 82, followed by Dandenong, 78, Frankston, 71 and Melbourne, 60. The Carlton-based institute’s 2020 Australia’s Overdose Annual Report said more than 2000 people died from overdoses in the previous year. CEO John Ryan says drug-induced death is not confined to either illegal drugs or those taken as medicines. “When used in conjunction with other drugs, alcohol may contribute to a fatal overdose, or rarely, be the sole cause of an unintentional drug-induced death,” he said in a foreword to the report which was released in August. “Up until recently, alcohol was the third most common drug involved in unintentional drug-induced deaths, though it has recently been surpassed by both stimulants and anti-depressants. “It is a grim landmark – and a brutal indictment of our governments’ narrow focus on controlling the supply of substances while failing to care enough for those who are already consuming and at risk of multiple harms

including fatal overdose.” Although Australian statistics were unlikely to be available until 2022, Mr Ryan said evidence from overseas showed “COVID-19 is accelerating trends and exacerbating risk factors which are already detectable in this year’s report”. “Vulnerable people risk losing the supports they rely on to stay connected and healthy. But these risk factors for overdose were present in Australia long before the pandemic,” he said. Drugs were used for many reasons, including curiosity, pleasure “or the promise of new experiences” as well as in response to mental or physical traumas. “Mental health drivers are important, like anxiety and depression. Some people turn to drugs to distract them from despair or isolation, while some are people with little hope for their futures, including the financially insecure and those who have lost their jobs. “Drug use risks are driven by alcohol and pharmaceutical drugs as well as the illicit drugs that are the subjects of whispered conversations. All these drugs contribute to overdose and death.” Mr Ryan said there were no simple solutions to the problem and “real time prescription monitoring” was not a “silver bullet”. “A comprehensive national overdose strategy would be a good start ... but at a minimum, we need an overdose educated and empowered community.”

Western Port News 23 September 2020

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NEWS DESK

Western Port

Proudly published by Mornington Peninsula News Group Pty Ltd

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

Journalists: Stephen Taylor, Brodie Cowburn 5974 9000 Photographers: Gary Sissons, Yanni Advertising Sales: Bruce Stewart 0409 428 171 Real Estate Account Manager: Jason Richardson 0421 190 318 Production/Graphic design: Marcus Pettifer, Danielle Espagne Group Editor: Keith Platt 0439 394 707 Publisher: Cameron McCullough REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Peter McCullough, Stuart McCullough, Andrew Hurst, Craig MacKenzie. ADDRESS: Mornington Peninsula News Group PO Box 588 Hastings 3915 Email: team@mpnews.com.au Web: www.mpnews.com.au DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: 1PM ON THURS 24 SEPTEMBER 2020 NEXT ISSUE PUBLICATION DATE: WED 30 SEPTEMBER 2020

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Artists work to oppose AGL gas plan AN exhibition to raise awareness of the campaign to stop AGL’s proposed gas import terminal from being built at Crib Point will run 3-25 October. Art is in our Nature includes the work of 54 artists while raising money for community group Save Westernport’s legal challenge to the proposal alongside Environment Victoria and the Victorian National Parks Association. “I reached out to the broader art community and was struck by the incredibly generous response of artists,” curator Penelope Gebhardt said. “Many have personal connections to the Mornington Peninsula and it has been heart-warming to hear their stories. Our community is passionate about this issue and the broader community is as well.” Visitors are being asked to “act for the health and longevity of Western Port” by donating or buying an artwork to help reach the $100,000 target by November. Co-hosted by Merricks General Wine Store and Silver Leaf Art Box, the exhibition will continue across the two venues (subject to COVID-19 restrictions) and will be live online from 12pm, Saturday 3 October. The wine store is at 3460 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merricks, open 9am-5pm, call 5989 8088 and Silver Leaf is at 3361 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merricks, open 9am-5pm, 0422 132 525. Visit silverleaf-artbox.com.au

Hearings begin An online directions hearing for consideration by a government-appointed

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:

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Western Port News

23 September 2020

BRONZE figure by David Larwill panel of the environmental effects information prepared by AGL was held last week (17 September) ahead of the formal hearings which begin on 12 October. Findings will be delivered mid-February 2021. Mornington Peninsula Shire has asked panel chair Kathy Mitchell to postpone the hearings because expert witnesses cannot physically inspect the Crib Point site because of stage four COVID-19 restrictions. The panel has given AGL until this

Friday (25 September) to produce further information about tidal and weather conditions, greenhouse gas emissions, chlorine and formaldehyde, acid surface soil contamination, the disposal of oily sludge, traffic considerations, and the proposed mitigation strategies. The panel has asked objectors to list areas within Western Port that they believe will be adversely affected if AGL is given the go ahead. Keith Platt

For Fast, Cost Effective Legal Advice in the Western Port District and Surrounding Areas Call 1800 765 948

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The future will bring new challenges. So we’re prepared. We’re building a modern fire and rescue service, with firefighters working together for all Victorians. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) leads fire and rescue in Melbourne and major regional centres. We are also strengthening and supporting the CFA with new equipment, upgraded stations and better facilities – ensuring our volunteers continue to serve and protect their communities. With world-class technology and highly trained firefighters, we’re ready to meet the challenges we face today, and into the future. For more information about Fire Rescue Victoria visit frv.vic.gov.au

Fire Rescue Victoria. We’re prepared. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne Western Port News 23 September 2020

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ANY SYMPTOMS GET TESTED Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to get tested for coronavirus at the first sign of any symptom and stay home until you get your result. Getting tested means you keep yourself, your friends, family, workplace and your community safe. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not over yet.

Find out where to get tested visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Western Port News

23 September 2020

NEWS DESK

Closing in on island’s final 100 feral cats THE federal government has given $335,000 to help eradicate the estimated 100 feral cats remaining on French Island. About 1100 feral cats have already been removed from the island but their total eradication is described as an “ongoing challenge”. The money from the environment restoration fund is aimed at protecting species such as the king quail, orange-bellied parrot and long-nosed potoroo. Flinders MP Greg Hunt said the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority, Parks Victoria and French Island Landcare had been working with landowners on a cat control program on the island which is said to be fox free. “Tens of thousands of waterbirds from around the world flock to French Island every year as

part of their life cycle and, recently, Zoos Victoria introduced the eastern barred bandicoot,” Mr Hunt said. “This program to eradicate feral cats completely will not only help local populations but help protect the future of mainland species. It builds on some outstanding work from the local community.” French Island Landcare group president Judith Metcher said the money would be managed by the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority. Cage traps, “curiosity” baits and soft jaw leg-hold traps are already being used to catch the feral cats, many of which were deliberately released in the past. The 35 pet cats on the island have all been de-sexed. Eradicating feral cats from Bruny Island, Kan-

garoo Island, Christmas Island and Dirk Hartog Island has also been identified as a priority under the restoration fund’s strategy. Feral cats kill up to eight million small animals each day, experts say. “French Island is a wonderful ecologically diverse place that is home to over 580 indigenous plant species and more than 230 bird species,” environment minister Sussan Ley said. “Once predator free, safe havens like [it] can prove vital in establishing ‘insurance’ populations, maintaining habitat for migratory birds and repopulating areas after bushfires and other emergencies. “Through the ERF we are looking to significantly broaden the nation’s network of safe havens in line with the Morrison Government’s threatened species strategy.” Stephen Taylor

Creatives find a way to cope with crisis BUSINESSES are pitching in to help Victorians cope with the stresses and strains of dealing with restrictions imposed in a bid to prevent the spread of COVID-19. While regional Victoria is feeling the benefits of restrictions being eased, the Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne remain under stage four restrictions. Charlie Ryan, of Red Hill, who started design agency Five Creative with James Baker in 2009, said they launched their V for Victoria campaign in the hope on “spreading a unifying message of love, hope and solidarity across the country”. The stylised hand forming a peace sign has been reproduced on posters throughout Melbourne and Sydney. Ryan says his design “up-cycles” the original V for victory sign made famous by wartime British prime minister Winston Churchill. Money donated to the cause is “going straight back to spreading the message”. “The graphic has been designed with the official

colour of Victoria adjoining to other colours that represent all other Australian Commonwealth states and territories,” Ryan said. “Initially developed [in August] as a direct response to the state of Victoria going into tough COVID-19 lockdown restrictions and the ongoing closures of state and territory borders, the campaign coincided with an evident rise in negative media and online coverage towards Victorians, that inflamed further fear, anger and division between states. “Having seen our country come together over the summer bushfire crisis, and to rally for a law for equality not long before that, I don’t believe these are the words or feelings of everyday Australians. I believe that there should be more words of love, hope and solidarity between ourselves as a greater community and V for Victoria encourages that.” Free downloads of the V for Victoria artwork, prints, face masks and apparel are available at www. vforvictoria.com.au Keith Platt

LOCKDOWN PICTURES ALTHOUGH pets are probably seeing more of their owners than ever before, the lockdown also disturbs their daily lives (mostly sleeping with a morning and, if lucky, afternoon walk). Lyn Truscott says the look on her dog’s face is all about “take me for a walk”. Elkesley and Bill Strafe got a laugh from the decorated bins in Mornington, below, while Brian Evans spent time admiring the Spoonville at Dromana and Anthony Scroggie envies the freedom yellow-tailed black cockatoos have to dine out where and when they want. Readers are invited to send and share their own pictures, with a short caption, to: lockdown@mpnews.com.au

Esso update

By David McCord, Long Island Point Plant Manager. The team at our LIP Plant continues to respond to the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19, helping to meet energy needs while adapting our workplace to be as safe as possible in the current circumstances. Amid the ongoing pandemic situation, there are still positives to be found. We are proud to be celebrating 50 years of operations at LIP this month. The Plant was officially opened on 21 September by the Prime Minister of Australia, John Gorton. Over the last half century, the LIP Plant and Esso’s broader operations in Gippsland have been a vital source of energy and industrial feedstock. We have operated safely and successfully for 50 years thanks to the quality and dedication of our people, past and present, including our contractors and our many suppliers. For me personally, the story of LIP has always been about the people. On top of our role as a local employer, providing highly-skilled jobs in the Mornington Peninsula region, we’ve always been a strong contributor to the local community. We have a proud history of actively supporting community organisations, including schools, emergency responders, environmental and social groups. I don’t believe we could have achieved all we have without the continuous support of our community, and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our neighbours and stakeholders. To learn more about our operations, you can reach me at CommunityANZ@exxonmobil.com.

Western Port News 23 September 2020

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NEWS DESK

Agent’s call to cut forest fire risk Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au

THICK regrowth under powerlines held up by wooden poles on the boundary of the state park at Arthurs Seat. Picture: Keith Platt

A DROMANA real estate agent is urging the state government to reduce fuel loads on the forest floor at Arthurs Seat before the summer fire season. A “frustrated” Roger McMillan has been keeping a paper trail of emails sent to Nepean MP Chris Brayne over the past two months asking what was being done to prevent the “imminent bushfire threat this summer … and the resulting devastation of lives, properties, flora and fauna”. To start the clean-up process, he told Mr Brayne: “You need to organise a meeting up on the hill, walk the roads and tracks, see firsthand the fuel load on the ground, together with the local fire brigades, the council, and the department, and local residents who live on the hill. “It is probably already too late for this bushfire season.” Mr Brayne replied that he was waiting on expert advice from Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D'Ambrosio. Four weeks later, Mr McMillan wrote again saying he “still [had] not heard a word from you or your Labor government on this critical issue”. “It’s simply not good enough,” he said. “So what do we do now … just do nothing and watch the mountain burn, or do we push the issue?” “How is it that I seem to be the only one who is concerned about this serious matter? Everyone seems to have already forgotten about the fires last December and January. No lessons have been learnt. People need to understand how serious this is. I remember the last fire on the hill. Do you? “You are my local member [and] for you to keep saying you are waiting on a reply from the department is very disappointing. How much longer are you going to wait? You should be

THE blackened slopes of Arthurs Seat in April 2016 after a controlled burn. Picture: Yanni out there making noises, making things happen. That’s your job. That’s what you were elected to do. “Your job as the local elected representative in state government is to protect your constituents, their lives, their properties and the local area.” Mr Brayne again told Mr McMillan during a Dromana Rotary Club Zoom call that he would “chase up with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning about works already undertaken/expected to be undertaken to mitigate fire risk at Arthurs Seat”. In a reply to Mr Brayne’s queries, Ms D’Ambrosio said Forest Fire Management Victoria was working with the CFA, Mornington Peninsula Shire, and VicRoads to “plan and deliver annual fire management programs in the Arthurs Seat State Park and surrounding areas”. These activities include planned burning, slash-

ing and mechanical treatment on public and private land, as well as community education. Six planned burns over 50 hectares had been conducted over the past 10 years. “The state park is a challenging environment to conduct planned burning, owing to the steep slopes, proximity of private assets and the impact of smoke and road closures on the local tourism and wine industries,” Ms D’Ambrosio said. She said most fuel management in the park was mechanical treatment, such as roadside and fuelbreak slashing, as well as broad scale mulching. About 10 hectares of forest has been mulched over the past five years, with a further 3.3 hectares of broad scale mulching planned for 2020/21. ,” Ms D’Ambrosio said plans were being drawn up to upgrade roads and tracks in the park to make it easier to conduct fuel management activities and fire response.

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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

Shire’s heavy hand Heavy handed enforcement seems to be escalating at Mornington Peninsula Shire. First was its response to Tyabb airfield (“More turbulence ahead despite aero club’s win” The News 9/9/20). Next was its treatment of a privately owned swimming school. Then came the “urgent issue” of hedges, fences and windbreaks. The straw that has broken this camel’s back is the blinkered and heavy-handed approach to farm gate shops (“Farm gates going ‘outside’ to source produce” The News 31/8/20). One of the things I love about the peninsula is the abundance of produce right on my doorstep. Except that it is not literally on my doorstep – the peninsula is large. But one of these farm gate shops is on my doorstep and, thanks to it, I can enjoy all the locally grown and made delicacies to my heart’s content. Even before the COVID-19 lockdowns it would have been ludicrous to expect me and others to traipse around the shire from one little farm gate to another to buy one or two items. I understand the idea of a farm gate trail as a tourist drawcard, but for residents it is impractical. Surely the needs of local residents are the primary concern of council? To compare the big three farm gate businesses to supermarkets is absurd. At a pinch, you could compare them to a neighbourhood general store. These shops are within farms and to go there is an experience that is more enriching than a trip to the supermarket. They enhance rather than detract from the green wedge, in contrast to some large accommodation facilities that I could mention. They also support myriad local businesses. To penalise them for this because it runs counter to the strict definition of a “farm gate shop” is Kafka-esque. Bianca Felix, Bittern

Justify rate increase How does Mornington Peninsula Shire justify the huge increase in rates? My rates have gone from $2354 in 2016 to $3304 this year. I realise we must pay for wastage deciding on a name for a swimming pool and subsidise overseas trips for staff and money spent on trivial issues instead of serious problems that are neglected. I fail to see why huge bonuses are given out in these difficult times. During the lockdown most of the things we are paying council for are nonexistent, such as tips and library. I thought the state government had imposed a rates cap and I fail to see if this has been implemented. I will be very interested in councillors’ promises before this next election. Trevor Billson, Tuerong

Executives may pay I cannot see how AGL will be able to proceed with its gas import project at Crib Point after reading some of the 3835 public submissions on the Engage Victoria website. The submissions from individuals like Vicky Karitinos and Robert Harrison have been very high quality, alongside professional submissions from doctors like Belinda Lewis and Professor Jeff Lewis. Mornington Peninsula, Bass Coast, Cardinia and Casey councils have produced detailed analysis that expose many flaws in the AGL project. Small community groups and large organisations such as Western Port Biosphere, VR Fish, Surfrider Foundation, Landcare groups and others have highlighted other deficiencies. AGL has persisted with this flawed gas import project despite receiving honest feedback from our community since 2017. AGL may have wasted its time and millions of dollars of its shareholders’ money, but it has brought many local people together to fight for our environment and the future of our communities. AGL should look to Rio Tinto as an example of how very poor management decisions can lead to massive community and shareholder backlash. How many AGL executives will be forced to resign over the Crib Point gas import project? Dale Stohr, Crib Point

Business misunderstood During the course of the daily press conference on Sunday 13 September, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said he fully understood how

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Western Port News

23 September 2020

the Victorian business community was worried about “loss of profit” when they haven’t made a profit for months and are worried sick about how they can simply survive the next few weeks. His statement underlines the total lack of business understanding displayed by this government. Private sector and free market principles are anathema to their collective socialist minds. They are comfortable in the bosom of their trade union backgrounds and upbringing. The great majority of this government have zero experience in the private sector that they are now proposing to assist. How do you go about helping a sector you know nothing about? About 80 per cent of Cabinet members have progressed from trade union ranks as union organisers or officials and have no private sector or business experience. About the same number are member of one or more trade unions, including the premier, and have only ever been employed in the public sector, with no exposure to the private market. There is no evidence that Mr Andrews has ever held a job outside of local or state politics. This is the same premier who would have us believe the government has a plan to resurrect the business community that accounts for the overwhelming majority of this state’s employment. The premier could do worse than to include some heads of industry and business advisors on the so-called “crisis cabinet” before this state is plunged into an irreversible economic wasteland. Victoria, we have a problem. Neville Congress, Rosebud

Mistake with China Let’s get this right. [Premier] Daniel Andrews, through the farcical [hotel] quarantine blunder, has managed to exile Victoria from the rest of the country while throwing it into economic chaos including a devastating endless lockdown. As the world distances itself from China’s president Xi Jinping, arguably the world’s enemy number one, Mr Andrews embraces Xi’s push for world domination by signing Victoria up to the Belt and Roads strategy. Fortunately, Prime Minister Scomo [Scott Morrison] is moving for the federal government to overrule such insane state decisions which seriously threaten our security. Aussie (Austin) Sadler, Mornington

Isolate, isolate Regional Victoria is now released from the shackles of the pandemic. In the meantime, residents of the Mornington Peninsula and its businesses continue in lockdown for several more weeks as a result of the Victorian government’s shambolic hotel quarantine debacle. At the end of our peninsula our forefathers established a quarantine station that actually functioned as a secure site to safely constrain arrivals. Perhaps our current Victorian government’s politicians and bureaucrats failed to learn history while they were at school. Or maybe it was English that they failed, where quarantine means complete isolation! Bill Holmes, Sorrento

Act responsibly The wheels have definitely fallen off the proverbial bus and the antics of the Prime Minister must be seen been for what they are. Is anyone else sick and tired of the Scott Morrison’s ongoing slogans? States not getting on the bus regarding border openings. He needs to stop being Scotty from Marketing and show real leadership. The ongoing aged care debacle, the Ruby Princess, the mobile app that hasn’t lived up to tracing and what it was supposed to do. I don’t believe the age care minister [Richard Colbeck] is not fit to hold that very vital portfolio. His and the PM’s continuing mantra “nothing to see here” is wearing very thin. The Federal Minister for Health our local federal member [Flinders MP Greg Hunt], where is he? Missing in action! At least [Victorian Premier] Dan Andrews fronts up day after day and explains his actions. He says the buck stops with him; he will be accountable at the next state election. He is putting lives before profits and listens to the advice from his health chief. Taking personal responsibility starts with all of us. Unbelievably self-interested, unthinking people must start behaving appropriately.

I am sure nobody wants the lockdown and all that means to our freedoms and businesses continuing any longer than absolutely necessary. Denise Hassett, Mt Martha

Political case I’m slightly confused and bemused regarding the Rosebud restaurateur who’s suing the state over imposition of the curfew. I would have thought she would have been eligible for the JobKeeper grant to protect her and her staff financially. I believe the restaurateur is a prospective LNP candidate for the seat of Nepean. Her legal representative is a Liberal-supporting QC working for her pro bono. Questionable politics is a trademark of the LNP. The latest is attacking [Victorian Premier] Dan Andrews’ wife in the Murdoch media. [State Opposition leader] Michael O’Brien obviously approves of this attack otherwise he would have condemned it rather than presenting the usual nightly whinge. The Queensland chief medical officer has police protection because of receiving death threats. Once again, no condemnation from the Queensland opposition leader, [Prime Minister Scott] Morrison or any Liberal MP in the ACT. The people being attacked are women, so it must be all right. It’s a bit like how they treated [former prime minister] Julia Gillard. John Cain, McCrae

No entitlement We need to get the message across to those council candidates who expect to romp in just because they went to a non-government school and have been active in Liberal Party and can print a glossy no expenses [spared] flyer delivered by Australia Post. Many of us free thinking retirees no longer trust, rate or support politicians (“MPs all quiet” Letters 15/9/20). In the crucial Briars Ward, there are several clearly political candidates pursuing office based on misconceptions of entitlement, born to rule and spurious claims of long acquaintance with Mornington Peninsula issues. What we need is ordinary community activists who have voluntarily attended meetings, joined local associations and clubs, written letters to the press, harangued and lobbied local MPs and endured Mornington Peninsula Shire Council meetings. Keep politics out of our council and we shall all be better off. The lack of any dynamic Liberalism on the peninsula contrasting with the clearly active and supportive alternative in Dunkley with [Labor’s] Peta Murphy doing a good job, is clear for all to see. Ian Morrison, Mount Eliza

Accident awaits As regular walkers along sections of the popular path along the foreshore from Safety Beach to Sorrento we have to be always conscious of the bikes which travel at speed, narrowly missing the walkers, consisting of the elderly, mums with pushers and children on their trainer bikes (“Coming through” Letters 15/9/20). It is particularly very dangerous when the bikes approach from behind and, without warning, speed past with only centimetres separating bike from walker. Some will ring a bell or announce their presence, but these are in the minority. More often than not it would appear that the bike riders seem to think they have the right of way and pity any walker who gets in their way. It is time for Mornington Peninsula Shire Council to act before a serious accident occurs. Richard and Rooney Keogh, Dromana.

End vendetta The recent VCAT decision regarding “church hour” and Tyabb Airfield was a victory for common sense, rather than a “kick in the guts” (“Kick in guts decision” Letters 15/9/20). Even Mornington Peninsula Shire mayor Cr Sam Hearn has acknowledged that it was a “sensible decision”. I don’t believe the decision would have been different if the council had enforced an outdated planning condition. The VCAT ruling considered that the church had closed in 1978 and that council had sensibly not enforced the condition after that because there was no longer any need. Removing this redundant planning condition should therefore have been a formality. In recent times, council discussed the redun-

dant “church hour” with the Peninsula Aero Club and suggested that it apply to have the condition removed. The club subsequently did this but, unbeknown to it, council tried to sneak in new conditions to restrict operations at the airfield. This action by council was duplicitous. Indeed, VCAT’s recent finding against the council notes that “not surprisingly” the aero club subsequently withdrew its application. So instead of a commonsense approach by council to resolve the matter, council will now have to pay for losing this expensive battle, and waste ratepayers’ money. Ratepayers should carefully and wisely consider who they vote for at the upcoming council elections. We need capable and competent councillors who can deliver responsible management of the shire – something that we don’t seem to be getting at the moment. The vendetta being conducted by the shire against the Tyabb Airfield, at significant cost to ratepayers, must cease immediately. Eric Collier, Somerville

Assessing views It is incorrect to say I am anti-airfield. A long with 99 per cent of Tyabb residents I support the continued operation of Tyabb airfield (“Information lacking” Letters 9/9/20). My standard practice when conducting my survey, if people identified as being strong airfield supporters, was to encourage them to participate: all views were necessary for the survey to be representative. Some of these people declined to do the survey; many did it. Other people declined to do the survey for various reasons (such as being too busy, were selling up or were renters). In total, 163 people declined the survey, 827 agreed. On a few occasions the person whose door I knocked on was so abusive to me and unwilling to listen that I recorded them as refusers and walked away. The survey showed 90 per cent wanted a night curfew and 79 per cent wanted no increase in aircraft movements above 2018 levels. This is why I say “the vast majority” want better protections. If we made the ridiculous assumption that all of the 163 who declined the survey did not want a night curfew and accepted increased traffic, then the results would still be that 75 per cent of Tyabb residents want a night curfew and 66 per cent want no traffic increase above 2018. I strongly reject the claim that I engaged in “push-polling”. The questions I asked were designed to find out people’s views about critical airfield issues, not to elicit responses supporting my own position. Brewis Atkinson, Tyabb

Unequal tax help Single parents unable to pay rent will be relieved to hear of tax breaks for rich Australians. More than 1.1 million Australian children will be affected by this month’s cuts to pensions, wages, JobKeeper, JobSeeker, the covid welfare supplement that will force many people to go without meals, medicine or other essentials, and push 740,000 Australians into poverty Not to worry if you are on $120,000 salary, you will soon be getting a $2565 tax cut to invest. Extrapolating that means that Flinders MP Greg Hunt at his $365,000 salary (before entitlements) will be $7375 better off. Workers at $22,000 will be a whopping $255 better off. Making these inequities worse, household expenditure fell 12.1 per cent in the June quarter but household savings rocketed from sic to 19.8 per cent. Rich save - poor spend! If you are a corporation benefiting from JobKeeper and paying multi-million dollar salaries and multi-million dollar bonus packages and multi-millions in dividends you can expect a tax break to further increase your profits. At least 25 companies have paid bonuses worth a combined $24.3 million to their executives after claiming JobKeeper subsidies. Prime Minister Scott Morrison is thinking that “if giving the rich tax breaks got us into this mess, it’ll get us out of it”. Reducing JobSeeker will be a good thing to inspire these dole bludgers to get to work, especially when 1,614,412 are competing for 104,880 job vacancies Corporations who pay no tax will be getting a tax incentive bonus equal to five per cent of gross turnover and multi-millionaires and billionaires who pay no tax will receive a 15 per cent tax incentive bonus equal to gross income. Joe Lenzo, Safety Beach

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World Tourism Day a time to reflect and look to a bright future By Nick Angus - for Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism IN light of commemorating World Tourism Day Sunday 27 September, we take a look at the everlasting charm of the Mornington Peninsula, and what its role might be in our next getaway chapter. There’s no doubt that tourism is a prominent word in today’s media. For decades, the tourism phenomenon has stood as one of the most important global industries, connecting us to people, places and experiences all around the world. While the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected this mode of connection, the flame of travel and adventure will continue to burn brightly for society, as we celebrate World Tourism Day today and anticipate the many journeys to come. For the Mornington Peninsula, the notion of tourism will continue to mean a lot. As a region that welcomes in thousands of visitors each year, the diversity and abundance of this coastal destination has been able to thrive astronomically, offering countless experiences and the opportunity to create countless memories. To our extensive list of exceptional businesses on the Peninsula, our residents of this inspiring location and our regular or occasional visitors, we say thank you. Thank you for helping to make this region so special. Thank you for representing our own piece of Australian paradise. For the moments when we have longed to travel this year, we have of-

ten looked to our own memory boxes in comfort and hope. Whether through photos, videos or even just simple reflection, we have been able to relive some of our most cherished vacation sentiments from home, and become inspired for when we can voyage once again. Now, and to further commemorate World Tourism Day, we look at what a getaway along the Mornington Peninsula will mean for us when possible, and how this journey may be different from last time. As the glistening treasure of the

Mornington Peninsula, the beach scene here has rapidly become one of the most popular and admired in the state. For many of us, the beach has continually represented a site of renewal and rejuvenation; a place to be one with nature. From the serenity and delicacy of Safety Beach to the grandeur of both the Sorrento and Portsea seashores, the potential for a day of complete relaxation within this distinguished region is truly endless. So, maybe our next journey will be about healing and recovery? Finding those moments to completely unwind,

and let go of any past negativity or unease. Where we dive into the lapping sea waves and let the natural ocean water refresh our senses. Or where we sojourn on the soft yet supportive sand and breath in lasting emotions of tranquillity and contentment. As one of the world’s natural beauties, there is something captivating about the beach. And when evening arrives, and a sunset of orange and golden light thrives, the beaches along the Peninsula start to welcome in a calming tide, resetting for the next day that awaits. Through the quiet backstreets and lively main roads, the calming hills and picturesque plains, the Mornington Peninsula continues to astound with its rich culture of market meandering, shopping and hinterland hiking. There aren’t many opportunities to witness all three of these distinctive experiences in the one location, where the chance for exploration extends for leaps and bounds. So then, maybe the next journey will centre around the notion of discovery? Where we set out our own path to search and explore, paving the way for both the sentiments of fascination and appreciation. Whether it be taking a wander through the celebrated shopping strip of Cook Street in Flinders or venturing around the Cape Schanck Lighthouse on a scenic stroll, there are countless ways to fulfill the objective of discovery along the Mornington Peninsula. Here, the concept of spontaneity is key, and will ultimately assist in forming an adventure of surprise

and wonder; an experience to always remember. Continually sparking the interest and acclaim from visitors around the state, the Mornington Peninsula has established an extensive portfolio of businesses which excel in their craft and expertise - from day spa pampering to promoting exceptional local produce, and everything in between. There’s no feeling quite like the one we have when engaging in a new region-inspired experience, learning more about the landscape and environment which surrounds. So then, maybe the next getaway will more be about indulgence? A time to treat both ourselves and the loved ones around us and enjoy new treatments or tastes along the way. Where we wander amongst the gentle and soothing Peninsula Hot Springs and welcome in the feelings of rest and repose under a canopy of Australian wildlife beauty. Or where we sample local and intelligent flavours at the esteemed Ten Minutes by Tractor, whilst appreciating extensive vineyard views and intricate interior designs. There’s no need for a special occasion to mark the undertaking of these experiences. All that is needed is you, and the desire to be inspired. Simple. As an additional way to help in celebrating World Tourism Day, take a look at some of our most loved articles and features, unearthing the people and places of the adored Mornington Peninsula. We cannot wait to welcome you back very soon.

Taste what you’re missing Producers from across the Peninsula have been busy creating delicious new products for you to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. We’ve curated a collection of local cafes, restaurants, bakeries, breweries and bars who are proudly offering online ordering and contactless delivery services. Visit our website to buy online direct from the finest producers and growers across the Peninsula. Stock your pantry with fresh localproduce, and treat yourself to take-away tapas, or even wine tastings at home. Support the local businesses you love, and get a taste of what you’ve truly been missing.

visitmp.org PAGE 14

Western Port News

23 September 2020

100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...

The Nobel case – ‘The Standard’ offers little sympathy Compiled by Cameron McCullough THE case of the Nobles, dealt with in the Frankston Police Court on Monday last, will probably excite a good deal of interest throughout the State, leaving an impression on the public mind that the accused were, perhaps, “more sinned against than sinning.” The attitude of the police in conducting the prosecution was wholly sympathetic. The Melbourne daily papers followed the lead thus given, and pictured to the astounded public the spectacle of a stricken family driven to crime to avert starvation. The story, as related in the Police Court, and reproduced in the Press, was sufficiently startling to give the average citizen pause. “The Standard” heard the story told in the court, and has formed the opinion that the sympathy extended to the Nobles is, to a great extent, undeserved. On the contrary, the plea that poverty, to the point of starvation, drove them to crime, has not been substantiated. As a matter of fact, full details go to prove that while the family and their ne’er-do-well associates were existing in a state of moral depravity, which easily led to the commission of acts not within the law, the matter of starvation or bounty with them was largely a matter of choice. Out of 14 persons living in the tworoomed house, five were men, two were women, and seven were children, six of whom were wards of the State. The Neglected Children’s Department paid Mrs Noble £9 per month for the maintenance of these unfortunate mites, who were found by the police to

be scantily clad. It was not stated whether they were ill-fed. Three of the five men referred to were not related in any way to the Nobles – one was missing when the police arrived. The point is that all these men were content to shelter with the Nobles, despite an alleged empty cupboard. In the Police Court sympathy was enlisted by the recital of where, one evening, Mrs Noble, in despairing accents, appealed to her sons, Taylor and Wardlow (according to young Noble’s story) as follows: “There is nothing for the children to eat; I cannot see them starve – go out and see what you can do.” And the police evidence has it that these “chivalrous” young men arose, went forth into the night, and – ROBBED A BOOT SHOP! It is recorded that old man Noble, the women folk, and some of the children were provided with new boots as the result of this raid. The depleted larder and empty stomachs were apparently forgotten. Thereafter three other robberies were committed by the gallant three, and the success which attended their efforts suggests the practiced rather than the amateur hand. Postage stamps, fountain pens, cigarettes and tobacco were included in the hauls made on behalf of the starving folk at home. Bakers and butchers shops appear to have enjoyed an inexplicable immunity. Altogether these youths exercised considerable ingenuity and enterprise in their criminal undertakings, and

Mr and Mrs Noble proved no less resourceful in placing the ill-gotten goods in safe keeping. Had the same industry been confined to legitimate channels, the fruit of honest labor would have been abundant – sufficient even for fifteen. That the opportunity exists for legitimate and lucrative employment throughout the district is common knowledge. Labor is at a premium, and workmen for farm, orchard and general works almost unprocurable. It is known that one of the shop breaking trio actually worked for a single day. At the end of eight hours he asked for an advance, and was paid 12s on the strength of the story that the people at home were starving. He was never seen by his employer again, and inquiry elicited the fact that the day’s wage had been squandered in a night’s dissipation with drink procured from a wine shop. Everything points to the fact that the house of the Nobles was the resort of an idle, dissolute and criminal hand, who probably left their city haunts for very good reasons. Thanks to the Salvation Army the elder daughter of the Nobles is assured of the care and comfort her unfortunate condition demands, and a younger sister has also been taken to the same Institution. It now remains for a searching inquiry to be held into the working of the Neglected Children’s Department. There must be something radically wrong with a system which hands over the care of young children to people of the Noble class. ***

LAST week. Mr J. Sargood, son of Mr A. H. Sargood, of “Deniston”, Mornington Road, met with a very painful accident whilst riding a motor cycle. He was treated at St Pancras Hospital, Frankston, and is now progressing satisfactorily. *** A MORE serious accident befell Mr Guy Ramsden, who is visiting Frankston, as the guest of Mr Bright, of Mornington Road. Mr Ramsden was riding a motor cycle down Oliver’s Hill, when he collided with a vehicle driven by Mr Leland Davey, of Mt Eliza. The cyclist was thrown heavily to the roadway, and on being removed to St Pancras Hospital, was found to be suffering from a slight concussion and abrasions to the face and head. *** THE Frankston Seconds Football Club held a highly successful social evening in the Mechanics’ Hall last Friday evening. The popularity of the junior players with the public was evinced by the large attendance, between 70 and 80 couples being present. Dancing provided the principal attraction, and refreshments were served during the evening. *** NEXT Thursday evening the Brass Band will hold its final euchre party and dance for the season in the Mechanics Hall. *** MRS G. Connal announces by advertisement that she has opened business as a dressmaker in Frankston. *** MR Milner Macmaster, of the Bay

Estate Agency, has made arrangements for the opening of a temporary office opposite the Frankston Railway Station towards the end of next week, so that he may be ready to see country clients returning from the Royal Show on Friday and Saturday. As permanent offices will be built on an adjoining site as speedily as the scarcity of labor and material allow, the address will remain “opposite the railway station, Frankston.” *** ON Saturday last, the majority of the Frankston people who journeyed by special train to Somerville, to see the football season out, had to walk back to Frankston, as the train returned empty without them. Many of the players had to pad it, too, whilst the Mornington people were forced to walk to Baxter. The station master at Somerville held the train as long as he possibly could, but the whole trouble was caused by Umpire Osborne holding up the game until the spectators got outside the enclosure. *** THE Frankston branch of the AntiLiquor League held a meeting in the Mechanics’ Hall on Monday night. Cr F. H. Wells presided. Miss Box was appointed treasurer, and working committees were also appointed. Arrangements were also made to hold a public meeting at Frankston on Monday, October 4th, when the Rev. Frank Lynch, M.A., B.D. will speak. *** FROM the pages of the Mornington Standard, 17 September 1920.

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PAGE 15

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THE MEANING OF EXISTENCE... AND OTHER SHORT STORIES

If Music Be The Food of Love, I am a Lousy Cook By Stuart McCullough MY wife was whistling. This is an uncommon occurrence, so I immediately asked what song it was. She paused for a moment before telling me it was ‘One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer’. This seemed something of an incongruous choice as, at the time, we were about to brush our teeth before lights out rather than, say, holed up in some ramshackle honky-tonk, but I let it pass. Instead, I asked whether she was whistling the John Lee Hooker version of ‘One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer’ or the cover by George Thorogood and the Destroyers. It was clear the question caught her by surprise. My wife shot me the kind of look you’d expect if someone had just asked her to gargle ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ in its entirety while knitting a scarf (and, to be honest, I was thinking about it), so I let it go. Plunging my toothbrush into my mouth I began to think that, had it been me doing the whistling, I’d have definitely opted for the John Lee Hooker version. It may seem like nitpicking but when it comes to music, these things matter. I am, when all is said and done, a music snob. I’ve long had a passion for music. I find it difficult when I meet someone who says they don’t really care for music. It’s akin to declaring you can take or leave oxygen or that you have no interest in food. My parents had a vinyl record collection that had come through some kind of record club. (The first rule of record club, presumably, is that you do not talk about record club.) There was a lot of classical music that we rarely (if ever) played.

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Western Port News

It was music that was more important to possess than to listen to. But I was fascinated by these records and became obsessed with Beethoven at the age of nine. I read everything I could about Beethoven. It was the kind of activity that marked me out as ‘odd’. I also learned to play music. I took piano lessons from the time I was six. The odds were against me as my parents had put the piano in the coldest room in the house. For those of you who don’t know much about playing the piano, I can tell you that it’s difficult when your hands are frozen. But despite these depravations, I persisted. I was twelve when I started playing with bands. I was the ‘synth guy’. Unless you’re Brian Eno (and I wasn’t), no one wants to be ‘synth guy’. I soon stopped joining other people’s bands and formed one of my own. I was fourteen when I wrote my first song. It wasn’t very good. But because

23 September 2020

I had a band back then, I dutifully taught it to my colleagues and we inflicted the thing on anyone within earshot; willing or otherwise. To this day, there are probably people living on the Mornington Peninsula who genuinely believe they don’t like music because they heard our (or, to be more precise, my) song. It’s quite possible that I may have put them off music for life. Despite a complete absence of positive reinforcement or, indeed, any evidence of even a shred of musical ability, I have persisted. Due to overwhelming public consensus and a petition with a surprisingly large number of names on it, this has all been done in private, away from the public gaze. This, I feel, is best for everyone. People can be so ‘judgey’. Especially on social media. And in person. Not to mention letter, email, billboard and t-shirt. Honestly, it’s as though everyone saw Bernard King on ‘Pot Luck’ and decided to approach all of life that

way. But things are different now. Whereas once you needed to convince a multi-national company that you can produce a hit every time you blow you your nose, technology now means that anyone can get their song out there through a streaming platform. It’s the punk ideal taken to its natural conclusion. You can do everything yourself. That, of course, is a different thing from saying that everybody should. I didn’t want to use my own name and I was reluctant to borrow someone else’s. So I decided to pretend to be a band and no one would ever know that it was just one person with a laptop. I decided to call myself ‘A Band of Rain’ because it sounded like a weather report. And, also, the band name I wanted – ‘Emotional Toothpaste’ – was already taken. For no other reason than because I could, I put a few songs onto a range of streaming platforms. I was sur-

prised when on ‘Apple Music’ some of the songs had a ‘star’ beside them. I had understood this to be some kind of seal of approval. Like an elephant stamp. The songs with a star beside them were always the songs you wanted to listen to. Presumably the ‘stars’ are awarded by Dr. Dre personally. Any moment now, I’ll be asked to get myself to Geneva as soon as conditions permit for the ceremony where Dr Dre will award me my star in person…. I know it’s silly, but it’s a way to stay creative. Music has been good to me, even if I’ve been not so good to it. Still, at least one of my songs has a star. Who knows what’ll happen next? A video clip? Duet with Lady Gaga? Maybe I’ll do a couple of shows. I’ll ask ‘Emotional Toothpaste’ if they’d like the support slot. stuart@stuartmccullough.com

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scoreboard WESTERN PORT

Lancaster steps down at Seaford

SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie ANDY Lancaster has made a sudden departure from the Seaford United coaching setup. The club icon emailed president Willie Lyn recently to tell him of his decision to end his coaching partnership with senior player-coach Matt Morris-Thomas. Lancaster had a long and distinguished playing career at North Seaford Reserve. He is a three times senior best and fairest winner and is the club’s second highest scorer behind legendary goal ace David Greening. He also has served on the committee and only stepped down earlier this year from his role as sponsorship coordinator to concentrate on his coaching duties. There is uncertainty over the reason for his resignation and the only explanation so far offered is that he is taking a break. “It’s just an extended break and I intend coaching in the future,” he said. He coaches a junior girls side at Seaford and plans to coach the girls under-15s next year but it wouldn’t surprise to see him take on a coaching role with another club despite his strong Seaford ties. President Willie Lynn can offer no explanation for Lancaster’s decision. “I got an email from him and he never said why he’s resigned and to be truthful I never went into it as you never know whether there are personal reasons behind it or not,” Lynn said. “When Andrew sent through the email we got in touch with Matty and asked him if he was still interested and he said ‘yes’ but we haven’t taken it any further. “I’d say Matty would be doing it again but that’s not been confirmed and we’d need to hold a meeting to discuss it. “You can’t just have one particular person making these decisions.” The favourite to replace Lancaster is former Melbourne Knights, Richmond and Langwarrin goalkeeper Peter Schwellinger whose sons Matthias and Jeremy are part of Seaford’s senior squad. Schwellinger includes Frankston Pines, Old Carey, Melton Phoenix and Whittlesea United on his coaching ré-

Seaford smiles: Former Seaford United senior assistant Andy Lancaster (left) and player-coach Matt Morris-Thomas. Picture: Darryl Kennedy

sumé and Seaford is aware of his interest in coaching there. Don’t be surprised to see him stepping into Lancaster’s old role as Morris-Thomas’s senior assistant. In State 3 news Frankston Pines has confirmed its coaching staff for 2021 and as expected Kevin “Squizzy” Taylor has been re-appointed as senior coach. The former Bentleigh Greens, Westgate, Langwarrin and Seaford United coach was first appointed to the Monterey Reserve job in October 2018. Pines’ off-field link with a Fijian community group played an important part in Taylor’s makeover of his senior squad earlier this year. The signing of four Fijian internationals, goalkeeper Aeseli Batikasa, defender Penni Tuigulagula, midfielder Savenaca Baledrokadroka and striker Tito Vodawaqa was a major coup for the club. “The Fijians will be there next year,” Taylor said, confident that he could fend off approaches from higherranked clubs once the quality of the imports becomes common knowledge.

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The former Dalian Shide (Chinese Super League), Żabbar St Patrick (Malta), Hampton Park and Seaford United playmaker first joined Pines’ coaching staff in 2019. “We are delighted ‘Wangy’ has agreed to join us again next season. He holds an FFA B licence and willingly shares his experiences from the professional game,” club president Lee Davies said. The final piece of Pines’ coaching jigsaw fell into place when the club announced the re-appointment of Paulo Pinheiro as reserve coach with the added role of senior football analyst. Portuguese-born Pinheiro, 45, arrived in Melbourne when he was 16 having played with Union Tomar in his native country. He played primarily in midfield and had two spells here with Springvale City then played with Portuguesebacked Port United before a knee injury curtailed his career. Pinheiro has held senior coaching posts at Skye United and Seaford United and like Wang holds a B coaching licence.

“We put together a very strong squad and I want to finish what we started. “I’m confident that we are capable of achieving something next year and I want to be involved with this club when our new complex is ready.” That’s a reference to the multimillion dollar facility development at Monterey Reserve due to get underway early next year. When completed Pines will have the infrastructure base on which to build programs for women, juniors and all abilities. Pines also confirmed the re-appointments of Darren Roberts, Li Nam Wang and Paulo Pinheiro. Birmingham-born Roberts played professionally in England and his former clubs include Wolves, Chesterfield, Darlington and Scarborough. He has played and coached at Skye United and Seaford United and his principal role at Pines is to assist Taylor with the senior squad. Taylor and Roberts will be supported by Li Nam Wang, who has been appointed to the newly created role of senior technical assistant.

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Pines vice-president Victor Kumar was pleased to have retained his services. “Paulo has expressed an interest in venturing into the field of football analysis. As such, in combination with his coaching duties, he will fill the newly created position of senior football analyst,” Kumar said. “This role will provide the coaching staff with invaluable data-driven in-depth analysis of player and team actions, tactical trends and opposition scouting reports.” In other news late last week Football Victoria provided an update on return to training and playing guidance for regional clubs. This followed the state government easing regional restrictions to step 3 in its COVID-19 roadmap. FV’s announcement stated: “Key community sport changes in step 3 for regional Victoria as detailed on the Sport and Recreation Victoria website include the ability for contact training and competitions for players aged 18 and under and non-contact training for 18+. “There is also guidance around changeroom/shower access and spectator numbers. “FV are seeking further detail from SRV in relation to some of the guidelines to ensure we can update the current return to training/play conditions. We expect these will be released next week. “As part of any return to football, councils must also grant access to facilities and we anticipate this may take a few days to work through for each club. “Please note that training/play restrictions remain in place for regional clubs, until FV publishes an updated set of return to train/return to play conditions and councils advise of their required processes.” When restrictions ease for metropolitan Melbourne announcements are expected for FV’s plans for off-season competitions.

WESTERN PORT scoreboard

Kangaroos junior stars on the big stage AFL

By Brodie Cowburn SYDNEY Swans captain Luke Parker played his 200th AFL game this season. He has won a premiership, made the All Australian team, finished second in the Brownlow voting, and won two best and fairest medals. Despite his many achievements in the AFL, a lone senior outing for the Langwarrin Football Club still ranks high on the list of Parker’s best memories. Before making the move to New South Wales to start his AFL career in 2011, Parker pulled on the blue and white guernsey he had grown up wearing for a solitary senior game. “It was an incredible memory,” Parker said about his senior debut. “I had my one senior game for Langwarrin against Mornington when we had a one week break in the TAC Cup. We were 30 or 40 points down at half time and we came back and won. As a young bloke it was great, it was one of my best memories in football.” Since his last appearance for Langwarrin, Parker has kept busy. He wasted no time making an impression for the Sydney Swans, breaking into the team in his debut year and winning a premiership medal in his second. His career reached a high point when in 2019, he was named captain of the Swans. Before finding success at AFL level, Parker played his junior football for Langwarrin. He ran out for his first game with the club as an under-9, and continued to play a starring role right

FORMER Langwarrin junior Luke Parker wearing his old club colours alongside Swans teammates Aliir Aliir, Will Hayward, and Callum Mills. Picture: Supplied

up until under-18s. Parker says that the way he was taught to play as a junior is still front of mind for him today. “I had some really good coaches. I had Darryl Henderson, who was my best mate’s dad, he played for North Melbourne and Sydney. He coached us for a few years to a few grand finals. My old man was an assistant

coach too, and he helped out where he could,” he said. “I think what they gave me was an enjoyable upbringing in football. I carry that on today, because when you enjoy the sport, you play your best football. That was something that was instilled in us from a young age.” The Sydney Swans have partnered

with Volkswagen to put together the Footy Assist grants program, a $50,000 grant pool that local clubs can apply for. Parker said the program might help “put smiles back on faces” in a year where COVID-19 has brought junior football in Victoria to a screeching halt. “This is a fantastic initiative. Volk-

swagen has donated $50,000, which will be split between eight grants for local clubs to apply for. Clubs will be able to buy extra equipment, or invest in coaching,” Parker said. “We know how important grassroots footy is, and how important it is to have really good coaching for juniors coming through to help with their development. It’s great to have money going into grassroots football.” Parker still keeps an eye on how his old club is doing. He spent two years as the club’s number one ticket holder, and still knows some players in the senior side. When asked if he might consider coming back for a second senior game down the track, he played his cards close to his chest. “We’ll wait and see,” Parker said. “But it is always great to get back to Langwarrin.” Clubs can visit sydneyswans.com. au/vwfootyassist to apply for grants. Submissions close 11 October.

Binaisse breaks through with Group success HORSE RACING

By Ben Triandafillou MORNINGTON-based trainer Dean Binaisse broke through for an elusive Group-class victory on Saturday 19 September with his ever-consistent mare, Felicia. Having previously placed six times at black-type level, Binaisse finally broke through with his four-year-old daughter of Unencumbered, as she convincingly put away a handy field in the $160,000 Group Three How Now Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield. Ridden by Craig Williams, Felicia sat up on the speed before finding plenty in the straight to kick clear for a comfortable two-length victory ahead of the Mitchell Freedman-trained Broadwayandfourth and the Chris Waller-trained Fiesta. The win brought up Williams’ third victory for the day after also claiming the Group One feature aboard Behemoth earlier in the day. Trainer Dean Binaisse said it was a great feeling to get “the monkey off the back” with Felicia’s dominant performance. “It was relief more than anything,” Binaisse said. “It’s been a long time coming with all the placings that I’ve had in other Group and Listed races. “She put away a pretty good field and won pretty convincingly yesterday I thought. It’s great for the owners, they are terrific people.” It was just Felicia’s ninth career start having spent more than a year off the scene with a serious knee injury. But after being nursed back to full health and being carefully placed by Binaisse, she has managed to land two victories and has finished outside the top three just once from her seven starts in his

Black-type: Trainer Dean Binaisse lands his first black-type win as Felicia dominates the G3 How Now Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield on September 19. Picture: Supplied

care. Now with a Group Three win under her belt, Binaisse is still confident the mare can show even more improvement heading forward. “She came very backwards when we got her due to the sickness and the surgeries she had to have. Each run she’s had, she’s continued to improve so I

don’t know where the bottom is,” he said. “She’s still on an upward curve I feel and looking at the horse she hasn’t completed furnished and matured. She missed nearly her whole three-year-old career so for her to do that and to be as quirky as what she is, it was really good.”

Felicia’s next target will be the Group Three Northwood Plume Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield on October 10 before potentially stepping out in trip for the Group Two Tristarc Stakes (1400m). But Binaisse was adamant that he won’t be running his mare if the track’s felt too firm given her past injuries.

“There’s plenty of races around and the most important thing is the horse’s health and we’ve always brought that to the forefront,” he said. “Her longevity is the most important thing, so we won’t be risking her at any stage on a firm track or if we feel that she’s had enough she’ll be heading straight out to the paddock”.

Western Port News

23 September 2020

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