Western Port News 25 March 2020 by Mornington Peninsula News Group

Western Port

THINKING OF SELLING? THINKING OF SELLING? Speak to your agent about listing on Speak to your agent realestateview.com.au. about listing on realestateview.com.au.

Be seen everywhere. Be seen everywhere.

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND FOR PENINSULA FAMILIES FACEBOOK:

peninsulakids.com.au mornpenkids

INSTAGRAM:

An independent voice for the community

Your weekly community newspaper covering the entire Western Port region For all advertising and editorial, call 03

FREE

Wednesday 25 March 2020

5974 9000 or email: team@mpnews.com.au www.mpnews.com.au

Website crash adds to Centrelink woes CUSTOMERS flocked to Hastings Centrelink in High Street on Monday (23 March) after the MyGov website crashed and the could not access services online. This meant many had to be there in person to apply for reference numbers for coronavirus payments after losing their jobs. Safe distancing rules seemed to apply. “MyGov is currently unavailable,” a message on the government site said, blaming a cyber attack (where hackers flood a website with users so that the site becomes overloaded, similar to problems on census night). “We’re experiencing unprecedented demand for the service right now. We’re working on expanding capacity for MyGov, but we ask people to patient. Please try logging on later today or even tomorrow.” Mornington Centrelink is slated to close Monday 30 March and replaced by a part-time agency open 15 hours a week. (“Rallying to save Centrelink” The News 2/3/20). The move is expected to push clients to the Hastings, Rosebud and Frankston offices. Services Australia general manager Hank Jongen said the change was in response to a “significant reduction in customers visiting the service centre”. “We regularly review our face-to-face services to ensure service delivery is sufficient to meet community needs,” Mr Jongen said. “What we’re seeing is people increasingly using different channels to connect with the agency and access services, with the availability and convenience of mobile apps and online facilities.” Stephen Taylor

Picture: Gary Sissons

Free food plan as virus hits home Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au FREE parcels of food and personal care items are to be delivered to needy and socially isolated people across the Mornington Peninsula. The food parcel plan is part of the rollout of emergency measures by Mornington Peninsula Shire to help lessen the spread and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the Caring for our Community program volunteers and staff left without jobs by the closing of shire services due to the coronavirus outbreak will be redeployed to deliver

packages being put together with the help of health and welfare agencies, Red Cross, the Department of Health and Human Services and community leaders. In its call to action, the shire hopes its program will “encourage our community to get through this challenge [of the coronavirus pandemic] together [and] foster the Anzac spirit”, CEO John Baker said in an email to councillors last Thursday (19 March). The program will also aim to “counteract negative social behaviour with uplifting stories and volunteering opportunities”. “Just to let you know we are making

progress on supporting our community through this crisis,” Mr Baker said. He and the mayor Cr Sam Hearn had “talked through” the Caring for our Community program with Flinders MP Greg Hunt, who was “very supportive”. The email quoted Cr Hearn: “We need to be at our very best as a community in these times. We need to proactively care for our neighbours and volunteer in any way that we can to help those around us and support our local community.”

Mr Baker said “key benefits” of the program included support “for our most vulnerable residents”; creating a sense of community connectedness; reinforcing the “benefit of helping each other through these challenging times”; and encouraging others to be community minded. Meanwhile, Cr Hugh Fraser has warned that the council cannot afford to “drag its heels” when formulating its 2020-2021 budget. “[Council] needs to be up front with the community now and thinking about what to expect over the next financial year: what’s likely to be needed for the community, how is it going to be safely provided and by whom, how much

is it going to cost and how is it to be paid for?” Cr Fraser said it was reasonable to expect state and federal governments to slow their payment of grants and to expect rates to go follow a similar pattern, both effecting cash flows. He said these impacts on its finances could mean that council has to borrow money to meet demand for “our home and community service delivery”. Cr Fraser said the COVID-19 emergency could lead to a significant downturn in economic activity “over perhaps 18 months”. “Peninsula sees last of the big days out” Page 10

Jewellers

Celebrating OVER 40 YEARS

TYABB AUTOMOTIVE

in jewellery manufacture

“SMALL TOWN FEEL...BIG TIME SERVICE”

GET 10% OFF YOUR NEXT SERVICE

Jewellery for all occasions

SERVICING AND MECHANICAL REPAIRS FOR ALL MAKES AND MODELS

WE WILL BEAT ANY PRICE

PH: 5977 4319 22 MORNINGTON - TYABB ROAD, TYABB VIC 3913

Drive through to Craft Village Trading hours: Thursday to Sunday 10am-5pm

Your Authorised Husqvarna Servicing Dealer

TYABB CRAFT VILLAGE 14 Mornington-Tyabb Road, Tyabb Phone 5977 3711

t&c’s apply: Pre order via phone and pay via credit card only. Alternatively order in drive through. Can substitute stubbie for can of soft drink or 600ml water. Approx 15-20min order time. Available from 11am-9pm everyday.

Nurses on call 24/7… Now that’s retirement living! It’s total peace of mind knowing that nurses are “on-site” and “on-call” 24 hours a day – 7 days a week. And Village Glen residents have access to a range of other support services via Village Glen “Flexicare” including Home Care Packages. A HOME THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

Self-contained villas in a range of floor plans, sizes and styles are available. There’s something to suit every lifestyle and budget.

SO MUCH TO DO

Facilities include a golf course, 5-star gym, a heated pool and spa plus croquet and bowls rinks. Plus there’s the crafts centre offering pottery, china painting and quilting. There’s also a workshop for the lads and even computer classes.

ALWAYS FEEL SAFE AND SECURE

Village Glen is where you can feel safe and secure… and just relax with dozens of staff and hundreds of neighbours, there’s always help just seconds away.

TO SECURE YOUR NEW LIFESTYLE, CALL VILLAGE GLEN TODAY ON 03 5986 4455 335 Eastbourne Road, Capel Sound VIC 3940

WWW.VILLAGEGLEN.COM.AU

PAGE 2

Western Port News

25 March 2020

NEWS DESK

Riders gear up for enduro titles RED Hill Mountain Bike Club will host the 2020-21 Gravity Enduro National Championships. Races will be held 24-25 October this year and 23-24 October 2021 in what’s being described as “exciting news” for the club. It’s the first time the Arthurs Seat venue has hosted a national championships event. “We will be crowning champions in each category and also issuing a personalised jersey to the first-placed rider in each category,” Red Hill Riders Mountain Bike Club’s Mark Jessup said. “The top riders across the country will be travelling to our wonderful Mornington Peninsula to battle it out. I’m aware of a team of juniors being sent from Karratha in north-west Western Australia to race – that’s 4547 kilometres away!” Mr Jessup said the location offered a variety of hand-cut trails with plenty of natural tree root and rock gardens scattered throughout the network. “The course has good draining sandy soil along its 310-metre elevation, plenty of technical descents and steep liaison climbs,” he said. More than 300 riders took part in last year’s event at Maydena, Tasmania. Online registrations open 1 July.

Fast track: A daring rider tackles a rocky descent on the Red Hill mountain bike course. Picture: Supplied

Councillor ‘sick of trolls’ and attacks Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au FRAYED tempers in public and barbs on social media have so upset a Mornington Peninsula Shire Councillor that she is calling on her critics to “back off”. Cr Julie Morris said she has endured “12 months of snide comments” from Tyabb Airfield supporters voicing a “whirlwind of abuse” towards her and her family, both online and in public. “I’m almost at the point where I don’t know if I can send my daughter

to the local school anymore,” Cr Morris, a senior constable with Victoria Police, said. “I feel I am at the point where we will have to move. I am sick of it.” Cr Morris, who has led the council push to have relevant and consistent planning permits in place covering all the airfield’s operations, said: “They weren’t this rude until I had to make some tough decisions. Yet every one of my [decisions] was made with full council support. “They should not target my family; they should keep it professional.”

Security issues arose at the council’s boisterous 17 February planning services committee meeting to discuss a planning scheme amendment in and around the airfield. Cr Morris said that before the meeting she was advised to park her car in the street and not the council car park where it could be vandalised. “One of the most upsetting things is that some people will only see the online trolling comments about me and my family and form a view even though they’re not factual,” she said. “Not one person has picked up the

phone and asked me why I have voted this way. “My integrity is at stake here.” Peninsula Aero Club president Jack Vevers said he “absolutely did not support online trolling”. “My advice is to always remain respectful and courteous,” he said. “It doesn’t do any good to our cause to act in that manner and I am opposed to that approach. “I don’t know what that’s about, but it is wrong. We can always disagree, but we should always be respectful.” Cr Morris said she had “always sup-

ported the airfield” and “wishes decisions about its permits can be resolved quickly” to help give the airfield the security of tenure to remain operating. “I’m not here to be popular, but to help make the right decisions.” Mornington Peninsula Shire mayor Cr Sam Hearn said it was “not fair for people needing to make complex decisions to have their families talked about online”. “Ninety-nine per cent of the community want us to respect each other and pull together – especially at this particular time,” he said.

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

Open Night Tuesday 28 April 2020 at 6.00pm

‘Lessons come from the journey… not the destination’ Tours available Tuesday mornings at 9:30am Please phone 03 5987 2805 for bookings 110 Harrisons Road, Dromana, Victoria 3936 Entry via Old White Hill Road

• • • • •

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

RESP O N S I B I L I T Y, RESPECT , IN T EGR ITY, PER SONAL B EST Western Port News

25 March 2020

PAGE 3

EXCEPTIONAL OFFERS ON BMW DEMONSTRATOR VEHICLES. AT MORNINGTON BMW.

Discover the Ultimate Driving Machine that is perfect for your lifestyle, with outstanding opportunities available across the BMW demonstrator range^. Don’t miss out, visit Mornington BMW today.

SELECTION OF BMW DEMONSTRATORS. Year Model Features 2019 220i Active Tourer Mineral White Metallic / Black Leather / Luxury Line / Panorama Sunroof 2019 X1 sDrive20i Mineral Grey / Black Sensatec / xLine / Panorama Sunroof 2019 X2 xDrive20d Mineral Grey / Micro Hexagon Alcantara / M Sport Pack / Panorama Sunroof 2019 X1 xDrive25i Black Sapphire Metallic / Black Leather / M Sport Pack / Panorama Sunroof 2019 X1 xDrive25i Estoril Blue / Black Leather / M Sport Pack / Panorama Sunroof 2019 320i Sedan Mineral Grey / Black Leather / M Sport Pack / Panorama Sunroof 2019 320d Sedan Mineral Grey / Black Leather / M Sport Pack / Panorama Sunroof 2019 X3 xDrive30i Glacier Silver Metallic / Black Leather / M Sport Pack / Panorama Sunroof 2019 330i Sedan Mineral White Metallic / Black Leather / M Sport Pack / Carbon Spoiler Pack 2019 X5 xDrive30d Arctic Grey / Black Leather / xLine / Panorama Sunroof 2019 X5 xDrive30d Alpine White / Black Leather / xLine / Panorama Sunroof 2019 X5 M50i Mineral White Metallic / Black Leather / Panorama Sunroof / Comfort Access 2020 M340i Sedan Dravit Grey Metallic / Black Leather / xDrive / Panorama Sunroof 2020 X3 M40i Phytonic Blue / Black Leather / Panorama Sunroof

Reg BBY348 BEQ025 BEP933 BEQ005 BEQ007 BBY343 BEP931 BEP945 BDU280 BDU308 BEQ027 BDU307 BEQ011 BEQ016

Mornington BMW 181 Mornington-Tyabb Road, Mornington. Tel (03) 5970 5970. morningtonbmw.com.au LMCT 7674 ^

PAGE 4

Drive away price includes stamp duty and balance of 12 months’ registration and CTP. While stocks last, please consult Mornington BMW for further details.

Western Port News

25 March 2020

Drive Away $49,900 $49,900 $52,900 $58,900 $58,900 $65,900 $66,900 $76,900 $76,900 $114,900 $114,900 $154,900 $104,900 $109,900

NEWS DESK

WESTERN PORT COMMUNITY HOUSE CLOSURES

Flower farm fined for oil spill A commercial flower farm that allowed thousands of litres of fuel oil to spill into a Moorooduc waterway has been ordered to pay Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) $500,000 in compensation and fined $150,000. On Wednesday 11 March, Aaree Pty Ltd and its director Admir Isovski, faced five charges under the the Environment Protection Act 1970 at Frankston Magistrates Court for causing environmental hazard, pollution of water and failing to comply with the requirements of an EPA notice The incident occurred in July 2017 at Barakee Reserve Outfall Drain, Moorooduc when a greenhouse on the Coolart Road property, which used a water heater fueled by waste oil, caught fire causing damage to the generator which then started to leak oil into the nearby drain. EPA received calls from concerned residents who reported seeing black oil in the drain and a private drain leading to the reserve. The resulting clean-up by Melbourne Water took two months to remove 1.2 million litres of liquid waste, 687 tonnes of soil waste and 45 tonnes of other contaminated waste from one kilometre of the waterway. The court also ordered Aaree to pay EPA costs of $11,663 and sentenced Admir Isovski to 200 hours of community work. EPA Southern Metropolitan regional manager Marleen Mathias said it was the responsibility of the duty holder to have controls in place to manage environmental risks and on this occasion a lack of controls resulted in a major pollution event. “In this instance, the community has carried a large part of the cost of the clean-up and the fine and the compensation will help redress some of this imbalance,” Ms Mathias said.

Supermarket charges A ROSEBUD man who allegedly stabbed a Woolworth’s supermarket staff member has been

Please be advised that due to information from the Federal/State Governments and the Mornington Peninsula Shire, because of the COVID-19 virus, the following Community Houses on Western Port have suspended their classes. They will be extending the School holiday period, pending further notice. We have not undertaken this decision lightly but feel it is in the Community’s best interest.

Crib Point Community House info@cpch.org.au CLOSED NOW

Hastings Community House hastingsch@bigpond.com CLOSED NOW

Somerville Community House

Picture: Yanni charged with intentionally causing serious injury, recklessly causing serious injury and other assault-related charges. The 25-year-old, who was arrested in nearby Sixth Avenue, was remanded in custody to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court, 9 June. The incident occurred while the staffer, also of Rosebud, was collecting trolleys in the car park of the Rosebud West supermarket, 1pm, Tuesday 17 March. Rosebud police Senior Sergeant Steven Duffee said the “isolated incident” was “not related to panic buying”. Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Steve Reidy, of Somerville CIU, said the 37-year-old was stabbed in the lower body. He was taken by Air Ambulance to The Alfred hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries and was said to be in a stable condition Wednesday morning. Police cordoned off the area and the store was closed for the remainder of the day.

info@somervillecommunityhouse.com.au CLOSED NOW

Willum Warrain Aboriginal Assoc.

gpc@willumwarrain.com.au or call 0403 528 034 CLOSED NOW If you have any queries please email your nearest Community House and they will respond in due course. We look forward to welcoming you back to our friendly community space soon.

Hastings Community House

An important message from the Victorian Government

MANAGING CORONAVIRUS TOGETHER WILL FLATTEN THE CURVE.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue.

If you feel sick stay at home.

Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds.

Stay informed at coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Western Port News

25 March 2020

PAGE 5

NEWS DESK

Western Port

Police patrol

Proudly published by Mornington Peninsula News Group Pty Ltd

PHONE: 03 5974 9000

Fatal at Hastings

Published weekly. Circulation: 15,000

A MAN died when his motorcycle and a van collided at Hastings, early Tuesday 17 March. It is believed the rider was travelling west on Hodgins Road when he collided with a food-delivery van just after 4am. The van was turning onto Hodgins Road from Michelle Drive when the incident occurred. The 21-year-old man driving the van was arrested at the scene and was said to be assisting police with their inquiries. AT about 11.30am on the same a motorcyclist escaped serious injury when he collided with a car at Merricks North, 11.30am, Tuesday 17 March. The 65-year-old, of Skye, was riding east along Bittern-Dromana Road while a Subaru driver, 35, of Mount Martha, was coming from the west and turning into Tubarubba Road. Sergeant Bruce Buchan, of Somerville Highway Patrol, said the rider was airlifted to The Alfred hospital with head, hip and leg injuries. His condition had improved by Thursday and he was expected to be sent home.

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 26 MARCH 2020 NEXT ISSUE PUBLICATION DATE: WED 1 APRIL 2020

Local news for local people

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

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

Crane truck blaze UP to 16 CFA trucks, police and the EPA attended a crane truck fire at Tyabb, 1pm, Wednesday 18 March. The blaze began when diesel from a faulty hose ignited and began burning the cab and spreading throughout the truck at the corner of Frankston-Flinders Road and Western Port Highway. EPA crews set up a hazmat site to prevent fuel leaking into wa-

Western Port

Picture: Gary Sissons ter courses. Four semi-trailers and another larger crane truck arrived to hoist the blackened wreck onto a low loader. The driver was not injured.

Abalone arrests FISHERIES officers have arrested five men and seized their car for allegedly taking 399 blacklip abalone from waters around Cape Schanck. Victorian Fisheries Authority director Ian Parks said 12 Fisheries officers backed up by police caught the “highly organised illegal fishing syndicate” from Pakenham, Cranbourne

East and Botanic Ridge, Wednesday 18 March. “This type of alleged illegal fishing has the potential to do serious damage to the sustainability of Victoria’s abalone population, which is highly valued by commercial and recreational fishers,” Mr Parks said. Officers said they saw four men walk from the car park down to the rocks leaving one as a lookout. Three men were allegedly in the water for several hours diving for abalone while the fourth kept lookout. Officers swooped when the men returned and allegedly stowed a large

Frankston High School 2021 Enrolment Information and School Tours

A learning culture money cannot buy

YOU’LL LOVE WHAT WE DO Curtains Awnings

Blinds Shutters

FREE MEASURE AND QUOTE AVAILABLE SATURDAYS!

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

Book your free home appointment today

call 03 5975 9366.

www.shadesofaustralia.net.au Shop 8a, 1-13 Tyabb Road (cnr Nepean Hwy) Mornington PAGE 6

Western Port News

25 March 2020

• • • • •

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

All tours start at 9.15am Performing Arts Theatre

7.00pm Thursday 30 April

Information evening for parents unable to attend morning sessions.

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

Confused about the right blinds for your home? You need to see Jaleigh Blinds

CALL

1800 ALL BLINDS

BUY DIRECT & SAVE! Fake $50 passed bag of abalone in their car boot. Mr Parks said the offenders ran away â&#x20AC;&#x153;not making it far with others hiding in dense scrub nearby until being arrestedâ&#x20AC;?. Officers allege 315 abalone were found in the boot with two more bags of 84 abalone found in the water. Of these 263 were said to be undersize. After the arrests the abalone were returned to the water alive and the men taken to Rosebud police station. They were charged under the Fisheries Act with taking and possessing a commercial quantity of a priority species, trafficking a commercial quantity of a priority species, and obstructing and hindering authorised officers.

A MAN, above, who spent counterfeit money at a Baxter motel on 31 January is being sought by police. Detectives from Mornington Peninsula CIU said the offender approached the gaming counter in the Baxter-Tooradin Rd business and exchanged a counterfeit $50 note for two $20 notes and one $10 note. The attendant realised the note was not a standard note. The offender is described as being of medium height and build, red hair, unshaven and was wearing a black shirt with multi coloured board shorts. Anyone with information about any of these incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at bddy.me/2Whuq5M with incident number 200044999.

If you're after Roller Blinds, Plantation Shutters, Roman Blinds, Venetians, Sunscreen Blinds, Verticals, Awnings, Curtains or Panel Glide Blinds and Vision Shade Zebra Blinds Jaleigh have the range and colour to suit your home. Verticles, Venetians, Romans, Panel Blinds and much more, are locally made in our own factory.

Building? Bring in your house plans for a FREE estimate.

Great deals on house lots

Call for a FREE measure & quote. Plus! 12 months interest free using

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

Year 7 2022 Enrolments

Enrolments close Friday 15 May 2020.

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

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

est 1997

50 Hartnett Drive, Seaford (Opposite Vic Roads) 9782 4142

19 Treloar Lane, Pakenham

(Opposite Pakenham Central) 5940 3866 www.padua.vic.edu.au

www.jaleighblinds.com.au Western Port News

25 March 2020

PAGE 7

NEWS DESK TEMPORARY CLOSURE

Image: Patrick Pound’s A Collection of Stranger Things install, Photo: Mark Ashkanasay

Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery is closed to the public, in response to Coronavirus (COVID-19), until further notice. Even though the gallery doors are temporarily closed, MPRG will continue to share the collection, exhibitions, stories, public programs and children’s activities online. Please visit our virtual gallery for ideas on creative activities to do at home with the kids, exhibition tours, artist talks and more:

mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au

KEY FUNDER

GOVERNMENT SUPPORTER

PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNERS

EVENT PARTNERS

Fundraiser gives lift to CFA FUNDRAISING efforts including a charity auction last month have helped Red Hill Fire Brigade raise more than $225,000 for building works. The auction, held at Many Little Bar and Bistro on Friday 21 February, raised $80,000. “The day was a huge success with a raffle and auction and was attended by more than 200 people,” First Lieutenant Sam Norris said. “Hamish McLachlan as the MC did an incredible job.” Donations and pledges helped raise the total to a staggering $225,000.

“We are incredibly humbled by the generosity of our community,” First Lieutenant Norris said. First Lieutenant Norris said the works would raise the height of the truck parking bay at the Mechanics Road building to four metres to accommodate new trucks standing 3.3 metres high. “We’ll be doing most of the actual work ourselves on the renovations as we have a few builders, plumber and electrician in our ranks,” he said. “And we’ll rely on a few community contributions, such as concreting, from nearby tradies and residents.” Stephen Taylor

p o Hon over

d n a l s I p i l l i h P d n a d n a l s I h c Fren westernportferries.com.au or call 03 5257 4565

PAGE 8

Western Port News

25 March 2020

DRIVE THRU BOTTLESHOP OPEN 7AM TO 11PM EVERYDAY FULL MENU AVAILABLE FOR TAKE AWAY PHONE TO ORDER 5979 2989

COVID 19 Western Port News

25 March 2020

PAGE 9

Esso update

NEWS DESK

Diesel back on track for now MORNINGTON Railway Preservation Society has trucked its steam train K163 to Newport for repairs where it became a drawcard during the Steamrail Victoria Open Day, 7-9 March. The arrival of K163 was a homecoming of sorts as it was built at Newport in 1941 at workshops which were built in 1882. The K class locomotive was a mainstay of the Victorian railway network from the 1920s up to the end of the steam era in the 1960s. Renowned for their dependability, the locomotives ran mostly on branch lines and several have been preserved and are operating around Victoria. The Mornington preservation society restored K163 in 1986, and it now regularly hauls restored timber “red rattler” carriages on the six-kilometre line from Moorooduc to Mornington stations. The society wants to raise $25,000 for the steam engine’s Sunday trips. Incentives to donate include being able to drive the overhauled K163 when it returns to service. Details: gofundme. com/f/keep-k163-going For details about train rides go to morningtonrailway.org. au/

By David McCord, Long Island Point Plant Manager. This week marks a significant historical milestone for our Long Island Point Plant, and for Australia. 50 years ago, on 23 March 1970, we loaded the first shipment of Gippsland crude oil on to the Geelong-registered tanker Hemiglypta. Since that day, the products that have passed through Long Island Point have delivered major direct and indirect benefits to the economies of Victoria and Australia. Most notably they have provided over $200 billion in government excises, royalties and taxes. When I look back over half a century of operations here in Western Port, what makes me really proud is not just what we have done, but the way we have gone about it. We have always been committed to operating with the local environment and our neighbours in mind. For example, two months before our first shipment we received a national engineering excellence award for the new Long Island Point jetty. A feature of the jetty was an elevated, rock-filled causeway, which we constructed purely to protect the local mangroves. We are proud to continue this focus on environmental management today and that, after handling more than half of all the oil ever produced in Australia through our facilities, part of the surrounding area is listed as a Ramsar wetland of international importance. To learn more about our operations, I can be reached at communityANZ@exxonmobil.com.

Hoisted: K163 gets a much-needed overhaul at the Newport workshops. Picture: Supplied

Peninsula sees last of the big days out THE Tyabb Air Show, the Great Outdoor & 4x4 Expo at Mornington Racecourse, and the Rosebud Kite Festival were probably the last big events to be held on the Mornington Peninsula for the foreseeable future. While timing was on their side, many other community attractions and events have been cancelled or postponed to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire is postponing, cancelling or modifying delivery of a range of non-essential services, programs, events and activities. These include libraries at Mornington, Rosebud, Somerville and Hastings, and the Mobile library; Pelican Park Recreation Centre, Civic Reserve Recreation Centre and Somerville Recreation and Community Centre, and The Tourist Information Centre at Dromana. The shire says it wants to protect the community, particularly the more vulnerable, and help “flatten the curve” of the pandemic. Staff will work from home wherever possible and cancel nonessential face-to-face meetings over the next four weeks. They will be available by email or phone to assist if possible.

Relief centre open MORNINGTON Community Information and Support Centre’s Emergency Relief Centre at 320 Main Street will remain open to assist those struggling personally or financially in the community. Manager Stuart Davis-Meehan said the Monday night dinner at the Freemason’s Hall, Barkly Street, from 5.30, would be modified to provide a take-away meal only. Fresh food parcels would also be available. The needle and syringe program will operate as normal. Details: 5975 1644.

BERG Mount Marth’s working bees, meetings and other events Western Port News

25 March 2020

Online snapshot: A Collection of Stranger Things can be seen online at Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery. Picture: Supplied

Shire services

Environment PAGE 10

MORNINGTON Peninsula Regional Gallery, Mornington, will be closed to the public until further notice to help limit the spread of coronavirus. The gallery’s collection, exhibitions, stories and children’s activities can be seen at mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au. The gallery’s Facebook and Instagram pages are also active.

have been cancelled and The Briars visitor centre and nursery have closed. The wildlife sanctuary and picnic and barbecue areas at The Briars will open as normal 9am-4.30pm daily. The free plant giveaway, scheduled for April, has been postponed until September. Autumn school holiday programs have been cancelled and fees will be refunded. Those who have booked weddings and functions can go ahead if they want. Mornington Peninsula Shire’s website and Facebook page will be update as needed.

Theatre ROSEBUD Astral Theatre Company president Brendan Croft said the Addams Family auditions had been cancelled. The company is looking at options for the September musical and Mr Croft said he would provide more information as it becomes available.

Art show ART Red Hill, which had been planned for the weekend of 1-3 May, has been postponed. Last year the opening night event attracted about 600 people, and more than 4000 over the Art Red Hill weekend. Hundreds of talented artists from the Mornington Peninsula and around Australia take part in the event which also features a cafe, kids’ art tent and pop-up shop. Co-convenor Marlo Reyneke said the committee opted to postpone

the show in consultation with the Red Hill Consolidated School and in line with government health advice. “We believe this is the best thing to do for our community,” she said. “We look forward to holding a fantastic Art Red Hill later in the year for the show’s 40th birthday. “We will announce a future date in due course, and will keep people updated online and via social media.” Artists who have already submitted works for this year’s show can either leave their submissions with organisers for consideration in the show later in the year, or request a refund. Organisers will make an announcement when artist submissions reopen. Details: arhrhcs@ gmail.com

Schools WOODLEIGH’S senior and junior schools have ended their on-campus programs. Students will move to a continuous learning plan and engage in remote and online learning programs from this week. Toorak College has also ceased its on-campus program and will begin its remote and online learning program this week. Peninsula Grammar students will begin online classes at home from Monday morning and following the usual school timetable.

Anzac Day ALL Mornington Peninsula Anzac Day services have been cancelled. Veterans’ affairs minister Darren Chester said Anzac Day was one

of the most important days on the national calendar, but expert advice was that large public gatherings posed an unacceptable risk to the community. “This decision has not been made lightly and has taken into consideration a number of key factors, primarily concerns about the welfare of Australians and other visitors travelling to Anzac Day services as well as views of host nations regarding visitors and large gatherings, the impact on health systems of overseas nations, and the welfare of staff and contractors travelling overseas,” Mr Chester said. Call the coronavirus hotline 1800 675 398 for further information.

Sport DROMANA Football and Netball Club has cancelled training and practice matches for all its teams. Secretary Graham Stelling said the aim was to protect players, coaches, volunteers and their families as well as the wider community.

Racing MORNINGTON Cup Day on Saturday 21 March will be run without spectators, owners and those non-essential to the operation of a race day. General admission pre-purchased ticket holders will receive a full refund. Public attendance is also banned at Melbourne Racing Club track work and jumps venues. The Peninsula Picnic festival at Mornington Racecourse, Saturday 28 March, has been postponed.

Western Port

property

TO THE MANOR BORN PAGE 3 WEDNESDAY 25th MARCH 2020

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

Speak to your agent about listing on realestateview.com.au. Be seen everywhere.

One of the last landholdings of its size near the Hastings foreshore, this substantial 1183sqm (approx) site with plans and permits for 3 townhouses is a jewel in the heart of town. This is an opportunity like no other (STCA), paces to the Pelican Park Recreation Centre, the Yacht Club, the Bay Trail and High Street. Parkland opposite and potential bay views complete the unique formula.

Auction: Inspection:

Saturday 18th April 1.30pm As advertised

Contact:

Tony Ladiges / 0414 905 873 tonyladiges@stonerealestate.com.au

> Prime 1183sqm (approx) allotment > Plans and permits for 3 townhouses > Parkland directly opposite

stonerealestate.com.au

mpnews.com.au

Wednesday, 25th March, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 2

ON THE COVER

100 ACRES WITH MANOR AND ACCLAIMED NURSERY THIS breathtaking 40-hectare estate comprises the most opulent of country mansions and a business component of national acclaim. Dream Time Wholesale Nursery is incorporated into this one of a kind property that boasts 15 acres with river frontage, and from the manor are 360-degree views of picturesque landscapes that take in the Strzelecki Ranges and Mount Baw Baw to Western Port Bay. The six-bedroom, five-bathroom, three level residence has a six-car basement garage and an elevator, and with it’s own helicopter pad - the helicopter is included in the sale – the property would not be out of place as the grandest of sets from any blockbuster movie. Set about 1000 metres from the main road, the mansion also features an indoor heated pool and spa with conservatory, all six bedrooms open out to their own private balcony, and for added leisure time a fullsize billiard room has a wet bar and there is a home cinema that would put most major theatres to shame. A staggering 800 square metres of imported marble, granite and travertine has been selected to complement the bathrooms, pool and main living areas. The magnificent kitchen features striking red gum cabinets and a scullery features a custom-made stainless-steel walk-in fridge and freezer plus a walk-in pantry. The business aspect of the property is a multi award winning, bio-secure, environmentally-sustainable wholesale nursery that specialises in semi-advanced trees. Facilities include the helipad and a helicopter hangar, there is the main shed on 3-phase power with modern potting machines, work bays and loft storage. There are comfortable staff facilities plus a deluxe manager’s residence complete with office, boardroom and a self-contained one bedroom unit. Water storage includes more than 75 mega litres on site, plus pumping rights from the Lang Lang River. This is an astounding home of almost indescribable grandeur and scale with a business of international standing, in a setting beyond compare.n

HOME ESSENTIALS

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

ADDRESS: 1750 Westernport Road, HEATH HILL FOR SALE: $11,000,000 - $12,000,000 DESCRIPTION: 40.47 hectares, 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 6 car INSPECT: By Appointment AGENT: Tony Ladiges 0414 905 873, Stone Real Estate, Suite 2/1a Main Street, Mornington, 5970 8000 mpnews.com.au

Wednesday, 25th March, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 3

5979 2489

64 High Street, Hastings www.robertsandgreen.com.au

CRIB POINT 4 Fuller Street

Bed

Bath

Car

A CAPTIVATING TRANQUIL SANCTUARY

Architecturally designed with Japanese inspired gardens. Zoned living spaces, ensuring privacy for all members of the family. n Open plan living and dining area, opening out onto the immaculate courtyard. n Master suite complete with built in robes, floor to ceiling windows and ensuite. n

CONTACT Lisa Roberts 0488 910 368 Wilma Green 0407 833 996

For Sale: $700,000 - $750,000 Inspect: As Advertised Online or By Appointment

LD O S IOR ON I PR CT AU TO

BALNARRING 26 Johnson Street

Bed

Bath

Car

A PRIVATE SANCTUARY SET AMONGST TRANQUIL BUSH SURROUNDS Set on a generous 2158sqm (approx.) allotment. n Expansive open-plan living with stunning hardwood floors. n Gourmet kitchen equipped with Westinghouse gas cooktop, built in oven, dishwasher and generous island bench. n Zoned master bedroom with spacious ensuite complete with large shower and double vanity and walk in robes. n

CONTACT Lisa Roberts 0488 910 368 Wilma Green 0407 833 996

Lisa Roberts

Wilma Green

Richard Whitehead

Ronelle Kraulis

Gail Miles

Celeste Little

Brittany Ellis

Michelle Cahir

BUSINESS OWNER

SALES EXECUTIVE

PROPERTY MANAGER

SALES ASSISTANT

ADMINISTRATION

mpnews.com.au

Wednesday, 25th March, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 4

5979 2489

64 High Street, Hastings www.robertsandgreen.com.au

SOMERS 1 Henty Grove

Bed

Bath

Car

DESIRABLE FAMILY HOME IN TRANQUIL SURROUNDS Located in a tranquil setting, this generously proportioned home, on a 1044sqm block, will meet the needs of the growing family. n Ultra -stylish lounge area complemented with timber flooring, plantation shutters and plenty of natural light. n Contemporary kitchen fitted with premium appliances & superb butlers pantry offering further storage. n Large dining/living area overlooking the lush gardens with impressive solar heated pool and large work shed. n

CONTACT Richard Whitehead 0412 328 718 Lisa Roberts 0488 910 368

For Sale: $1,295,000 - $1,410,000 Inspect: As Advertised Online or By Appointment

HASTINGS 3 Isis Place

Bed

Bath

Car

DREAM FAMILY LIVING IN A PRIME POCKET Beautifully presented family home offering immense lifestyle appeal with formal lounge and separate study. n Light filled stylish open plan living and dining. n Luxurious master bedroom with ensuite and massive walk through robe. n Superb indoor-outdoor entertaining options amongst lush gardens. n

CONTACT Richard Whitehead 0412 328 718 Lisa Roberts 0488 910 368

For Sale: $695,000 - $725,000 Inspect: As Advertised Online or By Appointment

Lisa Roberts

Wilma Green

Richard Whitehead

Ronelle Kraulis

Gail Miles

Celeste Little

Brittany Ellis

Michelle Cahir

BUSINESS OWNER

SALES EXECUTIVE

PROPERTY MANAGER

SALES ASSISTANT

ADMINISTRATION

mpnews.com.au

Wednesday, 25th March, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 5

Mornington 5976 5900 mpnews.com.au

Mornington 5976 5900

jacobsandlowe.com.au Wednesday, 25th March, 2020

jacobsandlowe.com.au

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 6

5979 2489 64 High Street, Hastings www.robertsandgreen.com.au

W NE ING T LIS

SOMERS 2 Bonview Avenue

Bed

Bath

Car

BRING YOUR VISION & INSPIRATION TO THIS MUCH LOVED FAMILY HOME! Occupying a lush, leafy 1262m2 (approx.) allotment of land in a prized location 700m from the water’s edge. Light & bright kitchen overlooking the second living area. n Central bathroom, separate WC and laundry with external access. n Split system heating & cooling, linen cupboard plus outdoor shed with storage facilities. n n

CONTACT Richard Whitehead 0412 328 718 Lisa Roberts 0488 910 368

For Sale: $845,000 - $899,000 Inspect: As Advertised Online or By Appointment

/Commercial

For Sale

Expressions of Interest closing April 17th at 3pm 86 Baxter-Tooradin Road, Baxter

Sky’s the Limit in Baxter

RED HILL VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE Red Hill 1/137 Shoreham Road • Now available for lease is this bright and spacious shop of approximately 88.3m2 • Full of natural light and suitable for a variety of uses

• Access to the large common area decking, surrounded by native flora • Ample car parking at the front and rear of the shopping centre

For lease $2060.33 pcm + GST + Outgoings

Mornington 5976 5900 mpnews.com.au

Michelle Adams 0407 743 858 michellea@jlbre.com.au jacobsandlowe.com.au/commercial

*approx.

Building area: 90sqm*

Land area: 172sqm* Commercial 1 Zoning Metres from Woolworths Baxter Central Shopping Centre & Baxter Train Station Potential annual rental of $32,000 (net) plus GST

5925 6005 nicholscrowder.com.au

Wednesday, 25th March, 2020

Two street frontages

Jamie Stuart 0412 565 562 Tanya Scagliarini 0438 289 859 4/230 Main Street, Mornington, 3931 WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 7

THE PENINSULA’S ONLY EXCLUSIVELY COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE AGENT Business Sale - Mornington

AUCTION - Mornington

Must Sell All Genuine Offers Considered • Long standing Café in Mornington • Catering for breakfast and lunch trade with the option to extend hours • Via Boffe is located beach end of Main Street • Currently doing 60kgs of coffee per week • Vendor will accept any genuine offer

Mornington Freehold

N O I T D C E U N A PO T S PO

Sale Price: Contact Agent Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454

For Lease - Frankston Ideal Restaurant Site • Previous fit out For licenced restaurant • New amenities and great rear access • Located on busy Nepean Highway with huge passing trade • Fit out price available on application

• Quality Investment opportunity • Located in the industrial area with easy access to Mornington- Tyabb Rd and Watt Rd • Factory of approx. 360sqm with 120sqm carport • Onsite parking plus street parking Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454

Business Sale - Baxter

Business Sale - Mornington Peninsula

All Stitched Up

Stump Removal

• Niche business operating successfully for the last 7 years • Specialising in quilting services, fabric and Sewing Machine sales • Sewing machine mechanic available for servicing and repair • Classes for beginners to advanced conducted on site • Opportunity for growth through on line sales • Little competition on the Peninsula

• Successful business operating for over 23 years • Servicing the peninsula and surrounding areas • Specialising in all aspects of stump removal from residential and commercial properties • Two weeks training provided • Sole operator with very little overheads • Sale includes two trucks, three machines and all plant and equipment

Sale Price: $75,000 + SAV Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454

Sale Price: $300,000 Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454

Business Sale - Mornington Peninsula

For Sale - Rosebud Occupy Or Invest

Mowing and Maintenance Service

• Fantastic Access to Mornington Peninsula Freeway and Peninsula Link • Factory/Warehouse of approx. 171sqm • Container Height Roller Door Access • Ample Parking and Full Amenities •Vendor willing to stay on as tenant at market rent ‘value’.

Business Sale - Mornington

Lease Price: $6,166.67pcm+GST+OG Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454

• Client base covering the Mornington Peninsula • Long established business with regular and casual clients • Currently run as one person operation with huge potential to expand • Client list and equipment included in price

Sale Price: $360,000 Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454

Business Sale - Dromana

Sale Price: $50,000 Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454

For Sale - Mornington Peninsula

Properties For Lease

SHOPS FOR LEASE 486 Nepean Hwy Frankston – 220sqm $6,167pcm+GST+OG 176 Main Street - 60sqm $4,166.67pcm+GST+OG 289 Pt Nepean Road, Dromana - 100sqm $2,865pcm+GST+OG Main Street, Mornington - 67sqm $4,304pcm+GST+OG MEDICAL FOR LEASE 1537 Pt Nepean Rd Rosebud – 620sqm

Main Street Cafe - DRASTICALLY REDUCED

• Well known beach end café • Large takings with small overheads • Inside and outside seating • Extremely Profitable • ACT NOW! Sale Price: On Application Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454

PH: (03) 5977 2255 mpnews.com.au

Cafe and Restaurant

Electrical Contracting Business

• Tastefully fitted out fully licensed café & restaurant • Established electrical contracting company • Sale includes fitted out vehicle, plant and equipment, • Full commercial kitchen social media advertising, pricelists, accounting • Seating for over 100 people software and data base. • Huge potential to increase business through evening • Vendor will accept any genuine offer trading Sale Price: $490,000 + SAV Sale Price: Contact Agent Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454 Contact: Kevin Wright 0417 564 454

www.kevinwrightre.com.au

Price On Application

WAREHOUSE / SHOWROOM 32/1140 Nepean Hwy - 200sqm

$2,800pcm+GST+OG

1/26 McLaren Place, Mornington VIC 3931 Wednesday, 25th March, 2020

WESTERN PORT NEWS

Page 8

Easter Colouring Competition. Easter Colouring Competition. Easter Colouring Competition.

3 3 fantastic fantastic prizes prizes to to be be won. won. 1st prize Nintendo Switch 1st prizeFamily Nintendo Switch 1st prize Movie Experience @ Village 2nd prize Chesterfield Farm Family x 4 Pass 2nd prize prizeLarge Chesterfield Farm Family x 4 Pass Easter Egg Hamper 3rd prize Village Family Movie Pass ticket Hamper 3rd prize prizeMedium Village Easter FamilyEgg Movie Pass ticket Simply colour colour in in the the picture and fill in your details below. Simply Simply in thecompleted picture and fill into in your details below. Send or orcolour drop your your completed form into OBrien Send drop form OBrien Real Estate Send or drop your completed form into OBrien Real Estate Wantirna by Thursday 9th April for 2020 your chance to Estate Hastings by Tuesday, 7th2020 of April, for your Wantirna by Thursday 9th April 2020 for your chance win 1 of 3 great prizes! Winners to be drawn on Tuesday chance to win 1 of 3 great prizes! Winners to be drawnto on win 1April of 3 great prizes! Winners to be drawn on Tuesday 14th 2020. Wednesday, 8th of April, 2020. Must be between the age 14th April 2020. of 0 to 12 to enter.

Child’s Name Child’s Child’s Name Name Parent/Guardian Name Parent/Guardian Name Parent/Guardian Name Email Email Email Phone Phone Phone Address Address Address

Age Age Age

Wantirna 207 Stud Road 8820 8338 Wantirna 207 Stud Road 8820 8338

By supplying your information, you consent to being contacted by a representative of OBrien Real Estate for marketing purposes.

obrienrealestate.com.au obrienrealestate.com.au

By supplying your information you consent to being contacted by a representative of OBrien Real Estate for marketing purposes. By supplying your information you consent to being contacted by a representative of OBrien Real Estate for marketing purposes.

Hastings 4/82 High Street 5979 8833 obre.com.au Western Port News

25 March 2020

PAGE 19

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

SOLD

$225,000 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

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

$248,000 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

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

$249,500 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

Separate study Open plan kitchen, dining area Lounge room with air-conditioning Separate bathroom and laundry

UNDER ACT R T N O C

$250,000 u u u u

u u u

Bath

Car

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

$275,000 u

Bed

$250,000 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

Kitchen/diner with bay window Lounge and main bedroom both with air-con Separate bathroom and laundry Front & rear verandahs, garage w/workshop

u u u

Bath

Car

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

$295,000 u

Bed

$260,000 u u u u

Bed

Bath

Car

Huge open plan living Dining area set in bay window Renovated kitchen is a must see 2.2 K/W solar system has been installed

u u u

Bath

Car

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

$325,000 u

Bed

Bath

Study

Car

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

To arrange your site inspection contact David Nelli 0403 111 234 or at the office on 5979 2700 Email: david@peninsulaparklands.com.au PAGE 20

Western Port News

25 March 2020

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

Community wants goodwill from quarry’s owner The written statement by Hillview Quarries’ CEO Paul Nitas to the recent community 7 March public meeting over the proposed new quarry development on Arthurs Seat states that “the company was hoping for understanding, support and goodwill from the community”. I would ask that Mr Nitas and [Hillview’s owner] the Ross Trust extend the same courtesies towards the community (“State urged to buy quarry” The News 17/3/20). Given the overwhelming negative response by the community towards the proposed putrescible tip development on adjacent land a few years ago and the recent knock-backs by both Mornington Peninsula Shire and VCAT concerning the new quarry application, why is Mr Nitas and the Ross Trust having such difficulties in understanding that the community just does not want any environmentally destructive industrial development to go ahead at this location? At all. Ever. The best possible action by the Ross Trust would be for the trustees to show their understanding, support and goodwill by protecting the bushland concerned in perpetuity; either as part of the surrounding state park or as the R E Ross Trust Conservation Zone. The trust would then play a leading role in recognising the biodiversity, conservation and environmental worth of this forest as part of the Mornington Peninsula biolink. This action would, understandably, be worthy of community support and goodwill. Wilga Kottek, Main Ridge

Pool a loss I was most surprised to find the Crib Point (open air) pool shut without notice on Monday (16 March) morning. Meanwhile, the enclosed Pelican pool complex in Hastings remains open.

To avoid an infection who would choose a Hastings pool over Crib Point? High-handed and hypocritical the management took the opportunity to cut its losses in lowly Crib Point, wilfully overriding the welfare needs of the community. Peg McGuire, Crib Point Editor: Mornington Peninsula Shire issued a statement saying the following centres would be closed from Tuesday 17 March: Libraries in Mornington, Rosebud, Somerville and Hastings, and the mobile library; Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery; Pelican Park Recreation Centre, Civic Reserve Recreation Centre and Somerville Recreation and Community Centre; tourist Information Centre in Dromana

Stimulus off target The only part of the federal government’s $17.6 billion targeted stimulus package that will work is the $750 payments for around 6.5 million Australians, including 2.4 million pensioners. This will help Australians who need it, while improving the cash flow in our economy. It will stimulate the economy. The rest of the package will go to the wayside and will not keep people in jobs ($25,000 for businesses is only a pittance and will be used by most in a week). Subsidies for appretices will only last until the work runs out and the business will not be able to support their half salary and will put them off. Accelerated depreciation will get lost in the financial statements and do nothing to keep people employed; nor will tax incentives. The only way is to get money into the hands of those who will spend it. I get a partial pension and the $1500 Jan and I get will not change our spending patterns. What would

we spend it on? The rich aristocrats on part pensions will not even see a blip n their bank balances. No one on a part pension should get any money for stimulation as, most likely, it will not increase spending. The only way to stimulate the economy is to get dollars into it quickly. How about some solar incentives? Jo Lenzo, Safety Beach

Keep Centrelink open After learning of Services Australia’s decision to close the Centrelinkoffice at Mornington at the end of march, I felt disappointment and anger at our federal government (“Centrelink rally cancelled” The News 17/3/20). How could it even contemplate such a cruel and insensitive decision? The impacts of this will be adverse and profound as vulnerable and marginalised people of all ages will have to commute to Frankston or Rosebud. This will also put more pressure on Cntrelink staff at these locations who are already stretched to th limit. This atrocious and decision must be overturned. John Antoine, Hastings

State of shame Wow, what an amazing acting, directing of the series “Stateless” being shown on ABC-TV. It is compelling viewing, although I now, by choice, watch it on Iview during the day as I couldn’t sleep after watching the first episode. Thank you Cate Blanchett and your co-writers and the ABC for screening this harrowing depiction on what this country has been doing, and continues to do, to innocent refugees. Shame on the religious zealots currently in charge of this once great country. When is someone going to take Australia to the International Court of Justice in The Hague and charge our Australian government with the continuing inhumane treatment of “our refugees”. Denise Hassett, Mount Martha

Election hangover I have been criticised for praising our local member, [Flinders MP] Greg Hunt for his handling of the coronavirus. I guess [the letter’s author] Marg D’Arcy is still trying to get over her defeat at the 2016 election in Kooyong as a candidate for the Labor Party. Bill Holmes, Sorrento

Help for wildlife I would like to report a fantastic effort made by my local coffee shop. Due to the devastating fires that destroyed our state the owners wanted to have a night to raise money for the animals that had been affected by the fires and who will need ongoing support. Unfortunately, the night did not go ahead due to lack of numbers. Not to be denied, the owners of Merchant and Makers decided to donate all the profits made on Monday’s public holiday (one of the busiest days of the year) to Wildlife Victoria The amount raised is over $2000 which is an amazing gift from the owners. Thank you Michelle and Marcus. Richard Fardell, McCrae

Check the reality It is high time our planning laws caught up to reality. Again we have a heritage building put in peril because of our planning processes. The Continental Hotel in Sorrento is such a case. Any developer proposing planning changes, and receiving them, should first have to satisfy authorities that their pockets are deep enough to finish any such project (“Hotel ‘clean’ and up for sale, again” The News 17/3/20). Now we have a building open to the elements and a ugly scar on the Mornington Peninsula. I see the whole thing as a great disgrace and the private wealth of whoever is responsible person should be used to at least make the heritage building safe for future generations. Rupert Steiner, Balnarring Beach

100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...

A Langwarrin fire - police prosecution Compiled by Cameron McCullough POLICE V. GRIFFITH, charged that he did unlawfully ignite certain inflammable material whereby the property of one, Jos. Baker, was damaged. Sub-Inspector Trainor conducted the prosecution, and Mr. Backhouse appeared for the defence. Fredk. Merrit, residing at Langwarrin, said that on the 10th February last, between 7 and 8 o’clock p.m. he noticed a fire start on Griffiths’ property, about 300 yards distant from witness. On the following day he noticed a kind of haze over the place where the fire had been, and having occasion to get on to the roof of his dwelling to fasten a loose sheet of iron, he distinctly saw a smoulder where the fire had been the previous evening. Witness decided not to leave his home that day. About 1 o’clock that afternoon a fire sprang up in Griffith’s property, and burned fiercely. Witness saw Griffith and his two men at the fire, and he said to Griffith: “Can you manage?” There was no ploughed ground where the fire started. To the Bench—Griffiths’ property was near the Government plantation. Cross-examined, witness said he had a law suit with Griffith some time ago, but as far as he was concerned it was a case of “forget and forgive.” Witness admitted having threatened further legal proceedings at a later date. Witness had lighted fires this summer, but had done so on ploughed ground. Griffith did not advise witness to remove a cart out of the scrub, and wit-

ness did not tell a man named Smythe that he was going to get a “tenner” out of Griffith if the cart got burned. Joseph W. Baker deposed that on the 10th February, at 9 o’clock at night he noticed a fire on the property lately bought by Griffith, and between 10 and 11 next morning he saw dense smoke arising from the same spot, and from there the fire broke out and spread, destroying property owned by witness to the value of £25. He lost 50 new posts, 50 old posts, wire netting and fencing wire, and 60 acres of grass. Witness saw Griftith that day when he said he lighted the fire to get a newly-calved cow out of the scrub. Griffith did not notify witness of intention to burn. The area swept by the fire was between 600 and 700 acres. Witness was on friendly terms with Griffith. Cross-examined – When witness saw the fire on Tuesday night he did not think it worth while to go down and investigate. He told Mr. Hartland there was not much danger of the fire getting into the plantation. Witness had suffered a loss through his scrub being burned, as it was not ready. His land carried 5 head of cattle. His stock was grazing on the roads until 3 months ago. Griffith complained to witness about a cow with a bell. Witness did a bit of burning this summer. People were continuously burning. Constable Dyball stated he inter-

viewed Griffith on the 12th February, when he said he did not know how the fire had originated. He said he had lighted a fire on the previous night to get a cow out of the scrub, but had extinguished it before leaving, and had visited the place next morning to make sure that all was safe. Cross-examined, witness said Griffths’ house was a quarter-of-a-mile from the fire. His own property was not in great danger. This closed the case for the prosecution. Herbert Fredk. Griffith, defendant, said on Tuesday, 10th February, he dropped a match into the scrub to make a cow come out. He gained his object and then put the fire out, remaining until 10 o’clock at night until everything, was absolutely safe. He went back next morning and there was not a vestige of fire to be seen. That afternoon, when driving into Frankston with Mrs. Griffith, he noticed smoke arising, and remarking to his wife that he was afraid a bush fire had broken out, he returned and did what he could to fight it. Baker told witness that he had lost 15 posts in the fire. He also told witness that after a certain party had passed along that day three fires had sprung up. Cross-examined – The scrub where witness dropped a match was fairly green, and that fire had burned about a chain square. He remained watching the fire until 10 o’clock at night, and was there when Mrs. Griffith came

down to him. He beat the fire out and left no roots or ti-tree smouldering. He lit the fire in the gully where everything was too green to burn much. There were no dry logs about and no fallen timber. The fire next day started five or six chains away from this spot. As a practical man, witness knew that fire travelled in dry county but not in green undergrowth such as was in the gully referred to. To the Bench—There was scrub between the fire in the gully and the spot where the fire occurred the next day. Henry Reynolds, said he was in employ of Griffiths, and he knew nothing about the fire in the gully, but next day he assisted to put out a fire which sprang up in the day time. Mrs. Griffith, wife of defendant said that when she left the place where the fire had been in the gully, with her husband, everything was absolutely safe, and there was no sign of fire. The fire next day was 4 or 5 chains away from this spot, and a little up the rise. The Bench held that there was no evidence to show that the fire lighted by defendant caused the conflagration that damaged Baker next day. The case was dismissed. *** Cr H. E. Unthank was able to return to his home on Thursday, 11th inst., after several weeks in St. Pancras Private Hospital. *** MR L. J. Ward, who recently underwent an operation in Lancewood

Private Hospital, Kew, has found it necessary to again enter the institution named owing to a recurrence of his trouble. *** Cr F. H. Wells leaves on Monday to attend the annual conference of Rechabites at Stawell. *** THE monthly meeting of the Frankston Progress Association takes place next Tuesday evening. *** THE Frankston Brass Band played several selections in Bay Street last Sunday afternoon. *** ATTENTION is directed to the extended advertisement appearing in our front page relating to the Pier Tea House, Frankston, of which Mr H. Vicars is the proprietor. *** MR H. Vicars, secretary of the Frankston Branch of the R.S.S.I.L.A., has now received sample blankets which the Defence Department proposes to sell to returned soldiers. Same may now be inspected at the Pier Tea House. *** ATTENTION is drawn in this issue of our journal to the advertisement appearing on behalf of Messrs A. H. McDonald and Co. This firm is making a special appeal to those who require engines for power purposes. *** FROM the pages of the Mornington Standard, 19 March 1920

Western Port News

25 March 2020

PAGE 21

‘

Edward ‘Ted’ Bull & Daughter A Family Who Cares With a genuine 59 years of personal experience and service, the people who Ted employs are a caring and family oriented team.

W e lco m e t o

When that sad time does occur and you have to contact a funeral director, it can be difficult. You feel lost, in some cases it is too hard to speak, and you can be too upset to think straight. This of course is very understandable. To lessen the burden, telephone our office and a representative will be available to call your home, at a time that suits you and your family. Our very competent staff will be able to assist you in every direction, helping to lessen the anxiety you are having at the time.

Edward ‘Ted’ Bull & Daughter FUNERAL SERVICE

www.tedbull.com

(Incorporating Ted Bull’s Funeral Service)

Ted and Joanne Bull

THE AUSTRALIAN FAMILY BUSINESS

SOMERVILLE FRANKSTON

5977 5684 9781 5545

e m o S rville DUCTED HEATING

Ph 5977 6122

Service: 5977 5789 baygas7@bigpond.com

A.B.N. 15 050 136 322. Plumbers Licence: 14942. R.H.L. L025363 PAGE 22

Western Port News

25 March 2020

Special deals also available on split system units, reverse cycle systems & space heating

FREE QUOTES ON NEW INSTALLATIONS

TRANSMEND FLOATS, TRUCKS & TRAILERS Custom Floats Building Floats & Trailers

• Obligation Free Quotes! • Workmanship Guaranteed! • Manufactured to your specification

SECURE STORAGE BRAND NEW FACILITY  Brand new shipping containers  Secure 24 hour access  Security camera monitoring  Boat/Caravan storage available

All Repairs & Servicing

• New Windows Front & Side • New Roofs • Rust Repairs • Small or Large Repairs • Chassis Work

ALLSORTS

• Paint Work • Lights & Rewiring • Floor Replacement

$210

or Repairs

• New Checkerplate & Rubber Flooring

per month

CALL NOW! FILLING FAST!

2/8 Simcock St, Somerville Vic 3912 T: 03 59 77 66 77 email: transmend@bigpond.com (*conditions apply)

15 Cannery Court, Tyabb – Phone 0439 386 396 allsortsstorage@bigpond.com

Plant Sale

! e g n a R e g Hu Only While Stocks Last!

ORNAMENTAL PEARS

NANDINA

PENCIL PINES

LILLY PILLY "ELITE"

from $29.95

$3.95

$5.95

from $5.95

Plus

1/2 wine barrels back in stock

Wholesale potted plants from $3.95 Massive Range Screening plants like Conifers and Pittosporums $3.95 Lilly Pillies $4.95

LANDSCAPING AVAILABLE / FREE QUOTES *ONLY WHILE STOCKS LAST

427 Coolart Road, Somerville

Phone: 5977 8912 Western Port News

25 March 2020

PAGE 23

PUZZLE ZONE 1

ACROSS 1. Boat carnival 4. French pancake 7. Entail 8. Candle strings 9. Wine vessel 12. Reconstructs 15. Rush headlong (of herd) 17. Golden hue

18. Bookcase part 21. Unknowing 22. Gnat-like fly 23. Removing completely

DOWN 1. Extremists 2. Yearly 3. Troubles 4. Ship’s company 5. Rigidly 6. Henhouse produce 10. Miscalculated 11. Monastery

13. Depositing roe (of fish) 14. Diluted, ... down 16. Stares angrily 18. Molten metal impurities 19. Seethe 20. Gain consciousness

Puzzles supplied by Lovatts Publications Pty Ltd www.lovattspuzzles.com See page 26 for solutions.

THE MEANING OF EXISTENCE... AND OTHER SHORT STORIES

Love in the Time of Coronavirus By Stuart McCullough IT was a routine trip to the supermarket. Trouble was, I was about five days too late. Having refused to succumb to panic, I was instead faced with having my choices substantially limited. The place was eerily quiet. Much as when you go anywhere that has recently experienced something deeply traumatic, everyone looked a little shell-shocked. I’d seen footage of people coming to blows in order to secure a packet of 2-ply but it’d been hard to believe. I’m not sure what this says about us as a nation, but we’re far less prepared for a zombie apocalypse than I’d thought. There was no rice. Or, at least, there was no ‘traditional’ rice but lots and lots of microwave rice. Clearly, whatever our dystopian future has in store for us, it will not include a microwave. I’ve no idea what has to happen for the nation’s microwaves to all stop working, but some people are obviously picturing a future without electricity and are ready to start preparing their meals over an open fire. Alternatively, rather than ‘survival’ mode, a fair number of people have accidentally gone in to ‘Survivor’ mode, where all they ever do is eat rice and sleep outdoors. It’s a mistake that anyone can make. If a member of your family tells you that you’ve been voted off the island, feel free to correct them. There was very little pasta. Except for angel hair pasta – which is obviously way too fancy and fiddly for a lock-down situation – and gnocchi. I’m not sure what panic purchas-

PAGE 24

Western Port News

ers especially have against gnocchi. Too starchy, perhaps? I can imagine someone standing in the pasta section; cramming spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, macaroni, tagliatelle, linguine and pappardelle into their trolley, but leaving the gnocchi behind for fear of going overboard. Perhaps they feel that pasta is the secret to beating this thing. Forget

25 March 2020

washing your hands, carb loading is the way to go. There were no walnuts. For the love of everything I hold sacred, what possessed my fellow citizens to hoard all the walnuts and, in doing so, deprive walnut-lovers such as myself to go without? Clearly, having elected to eat pasta for the next three decades, they’ve decided a Waldorf

salad is the perfect side dish. Or, in the event that you do have to self-isolate, there’s never going to be a better time to bake. Perhaps that was the reason there was so little flour left. People want to bake and definitely not make their own gnocchi. Maybe people are simply looking ahead. The fiscal outlook is nothing if not uncertain and negative growth is a distinct possibility. But as bleak as things may be, there’s always the chance of a baking-led recovery. I, for one, don’t know what the nation’s economy is going to look like when we come out the other side of this thing, but I do know that we’ll be perfectly placed to run a cake stall so large that you’ll be able to see it from space. Sponge cake is recession proof. That’s a fact. Then I stumbled across what once would have been the toilet paper isle. All that remained was shelving. The only people in the aisle were there to take photos. I’d heard of runs on banks during the Great Depression, but clearly some people are preparing for runs of a completely different kind. The evidence suggests that some folks have drastically misunderstood the symptoms of corona virus. It goes to show where our priorities lie. Forget bottled water and canned tomatoes – just make sure I can continue to go to the lav in relative comfort and I’m as good as set in the event of a shut-in. Given that the will of the nation has been so clearly been expressed, it’d be foolish not to listen. Indeed, it’s only a matter of

time before we ditch the cute looking fauna and crown a packet of Sorbent silky-white 2-ply as our national symbol. In future, political parties will run on platforms that promise an uninterrupted supply of loo rolls. Fringe parties will promise out-house stationery for everyone, regardless of cost. But not everyone is impacted. My father did National Service back in the 1950s. He often used to tell his children that at Puckapunyal, toilet paper was rationed out at two sheets per man per day. Originally, I had misheard ‘sheet’ and regarded the arrangements as a little on the generous side. Once I realized that the term was, in fact, ‘sheet’, I was mortified. It simply didn’t seem possible. I lived in terror that my father would introduce a similar rule in our house – for there could be no other reason for bringing it up so often – and that my profligate habits on the thunder-box would be exposed. Humiliation would inevitably follow. But it made me realize – my father has been preparing for this moment his entire life. While others are losing their minds with panic, my father can rest assured that a single roll will take him comfortably through to 2025. These are strange times. Perhaps it’s no surprise that people do whatever they can to prepare for what is, in truth, unprecedented. But if the run on our supermarkets shows anything, it’s that people are ready to take action. Hopefully, that’s something that will hold us all in good stead. Best wishes to all. And bon appetite. stuart@stuartmccullough.com

networkclassiďŹ eds.com.au networkclassiďŹ eds.com.au Employment

Trades & Services Deadline

Trades Business Profile

TRADES & SERVICES

We accept payment by:

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS

(1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local ofďŹ ce)

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

Carpenters

ORBIT PLUMBING s (O T 7ATER s "URST 0IPES s (EATING s #ARBON - s 4APS 4OILETS ONOXIDE 4ESTING s 0UMPS s "LOCKED $ RAINS s 'AS &ITTING

ly Plumber Daniel:

0447 007 178

ww w.o rbi tpl um bin

General Classifieds

Garden Services V

Real Estate

s (OT 7ATER s "URST 0IPES s 4APS 4OILETS s (EATING s #ARBON -ONOXIDE 4ESTING s 0UMPS s "LOCKED $RAINS s 'AS &ITTING

section of Network ClassiďŹ eds.

0447 007 178

LIC: 109028

www.orbitplumbing.com.au

12415744-DJ16-19

Trades & Services section of Network ClassiďŹ eds.

"ASED ON THE -ORNINGTON PENINSULA hKEEP IT LOCAL USE A LOCALv

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identiďŹ cation number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identiďŹ cation number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

Satisfaction Guaranteed!

C1069118-KK3-13

Use code: EMPDISC

Fill your position online ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVLÂ´HGV FRP DX V

Professional

PLACE YOUR

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVLÂ´HGV FRP DX

UĂ&#x160;/Ă&#x20AC;iiĂ&#x160;EĂ&#x160;-Ă&#x152;Ă&#x2022;Â&#x201C;ÂŤĂ&#x160;,iÂ&#x201C;Â&#x153;Ă&#x203A;>Â? UĂ&#x160; Ă&#x2022;Â?Â?Ă&#x160; Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;>Â&#x2DC;ViĂ&#x160; Â&#x153;Ă&#x203A;iĂ&#x20AC; Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;7Â&#x153;Â&#x153;`Ă&#x160; Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;ÂŤÂŤiĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x2030; Ă&#x2022;Â?VÂ&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x160;-iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2C6;ViĂ&#x160; Ă&#x203A;>Â&#x2C6;Â?>LÂ?i

12337429-CG06-17

Electricians

Tree Lopping/Surgery

Get 10% Discount

CHEAP CHEAP CHEAP

12371888-ACM08-18

We do it all from deck sanding, cleaning and sealing through to timber maintenance. Residential & Commercial. Continually delivering a beautiful & long-lasting deck surface. Call, email or visit our website for more information. phone: 1800 DECKCLEAN (1800 332 525) email: info@deckseal.com.au www.deckseal.com.au

12424402-RC33-19

Beat the spring rush

NEW STAFF?

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

Garage Sales

Decks/Pergolas

DeckSeal specialize in the restoration & preservation of timber decks. Our services extend to timber screens, benches, boxes, cladding, doors, windows & also concrete cleaning & sealing.

Positions Vacant

NEED

Pets & Services

12400498-CG38-18

Find your Local Professionals in our

Call Anthony for a free quote on 0423 808 691

Buy, Rent & Sell in our

** Same Day Plumbing Service **

Experienced Concreter for: s $RIVEWAYS s 0ATIOS s 'ARAGE 3HEDS s (OUSE 3LABS s !LL 4YPES OF #ONCRETING s %XPOSED !GGREGATE s 0LAIN #OLOURED

Massage Therapists

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer non-sexual services.

Plumbing

Local & Friendly Plumber Daniel:

section of Network Classifieds.

12419812-RC24-19

ORBIT PLUMBING

Concrete Products & Services 12417522-RC20-19

1155688-CG39-14

0418 172 044

Motoring

LIC: 109028

g.c om .au

Call 1300 666 808

PERGOLAS & DECKS 0481 056 198 CALL MARTIN

Buy, & Sell in our

12415744-DJ16-19

s 'ARDEN #LEANUPS s 'UTTER #LEANUPS s 2EGULAR ,AWN -AINTENANCE s (IGH 0RESSURE #LEANING s (OME -AINTENANCE

For more information contact Patrik on 041 094 2230 or email patrik@intensivecareathome.com

12442410-CLG09-20

** Same Day Plumb ing Service ** Local & Friend

A.J. STEVEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CLEANUP

12395976-RA34-18

12435754-LB03-20

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Local Plumbers in the Local Papers for the Local People!â&#x20AC;?

12400545-LB38-19

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network ClassiďŹ eds has been connecting local businesses with local community with our Trades and Services each week. Speak to our classiďŹ ed team and ďŹ nd out how easy it is to advertise.

(include your name, address and phone number)

DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME

ICU/PICU nurses wanted for home care in Balnarring, Bittern and Mornington. Minimum of 2 years ICU/PICU experience. Must be ventilation and tracheostomy competent.

Grow your business with

Online: networkclassiďŹ eds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassiďŹ eds.com.au

Medical/Nursing

REGISTERED NURSES

Placing your classiďŹ ed advert is so easy...

Deadline for all classiďŹ cations is 1:00pm Friday.

12423634-SN31-19

Mulch For Sale

Ph Graham 0407 357 927

Treesbgone tree & stump removals excavator & tower hire firewood & mulch sales fully insured

contact Graeme 0407 353 875

Find your special occasion needs in our

Celebrations

section of Network ClassiďŹ eds.

networkclassiďŹ eds.com.au

Place Your ClassiďŹ ed Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online! Western Port News

25 March 2020

PAGE 25

scoreboard WESTERN PORT

Yargi Racing two good on Cup day HORSE RACING

By Ben Triandafillou IT was a day to remember for the Mornington-based training partnership of Amy and Ash Yargi who scored a winning double on Mornington Cup day on Saturday 21 March. Despite racing without a crowd, the Yargi Racing team were thrilled to land back-to-back winners at their home track of Mornington as the inform mare, Jamaican Hurry, and the enigmatic, I’m Telling Ya, rose to the fore in races two and three. Co-trainer Amy Yargi said it was an odd feeling to see Mornington so empty on its featured Cup meeting but was glad that racing was still able to go ahead. “Ash and I were just saying before that it feels just like trackwork unfortunately,” Amy Yargi said post-race. “We’re taking it all very seriously. We’re very grateful that we are still racing and it’s nice to get a winner on Mornington Cup day.” The five-year-old mare, Jamaican Hurry, kicked off the stable’s day with a blistering victory in the Fillies and Mares benchmark 70 race. Settling at the rear of the field, the lightly raced mare came with a barnstorming finish to nab the win in the final couple of strides when the Pat Carey-trained Ul-

37 starts, has earnt just over $235,000 for connections. For the Mornington Cup itself, the Michael Moroney-trained import, Aktau, scored a determined one-length victory over the Busuttin/Youngtrained Inverloch and the fast-finishing Terry Kelly-trained, Skelm. The victory in the Listed Mornington Cup provides the import with a free-ticket into the Group 1 Caulfield Cup in the Spring. Pat Carey finished fourth again this year with Stars of Carrum running a solid race from the back of the field. While the race favourite, Just Benjamin, from the Anthony Freedman yard faded to finish in seventh with jockey Ben Melham reporting that the gelding raced keenly in blinkers and recommended they be removed next start. But a post-race endoscopy did detect a degree of internal exercise induced pulmonary haemorrhage which may have affected his performance. Also on Saturday 21 March, Mornington-based apprentice jockey, Kiran Quilty, landed her first race win at Avoca aboard Kurocaine for her boss Shane Nichols. Quilty led from start to finish aboard the four-year-old son of Kuroshio to score a dominant twoand-a-half length victory at her sixth career ride.

Running double: The Amy and Ash Yargi training partnership score a winning double at their home track on Mornington Cup day. Pictures: Supplied

tra Smart looked to have the race allbut locked up. The win made it back-to-back victories for Jamaican Hurry after scoring an impressive win at Flemington at her prior start. Yargi said it’s just taken some time for the daughter of Von Costa de Hero to start hitting her straps. “We’ve always had a lot of faith in her,” she said. “She’s been a long time coming but we’ve always thought that she was capable of this.

loose in the straight. Despite having not won in almost three years, the son of Reward for Effort came home like a steam train to score a dominant victory in the third race. Yargi was stoked to finally see her $20,000 bargain-buy break through again after placing eight times since his last win in September, 2017. “We’ve started calling him ‘I’m Teasing Ya’ at home because he looms up, runs the quickest times of the race every single week and just can’t quite get there. He’s as honest as anything but we’re just so thrilled for him to finally break through again after such a long time,” she said. “We love him. He’s the nicest horse and he’s just a pleasure to have around. He’s a real gentleman – my little boy Tommy can even lead him around. We’ve brought a packet of licorice for him to have after today if he won so we better live up to our side of the deal.” I’m Telling Ya, who now holds a record of four wins and 13 placings from

“I’m wrapped that the owners persevered with her and it’s lovely to see her start putting it altogether.” Jockey Dean Yendall, who rode Jamaican Hurry to victory, struck again while the iron was hot to score a much-deserved victory with the everconsistent gelding, I’m Telling Ya. Also settling at the rear of the field, the six-year-old gelding looked to be struggling to keep in contact with the field heading into the home bend before really picking up and letting

Attention Schools, sporting clubs & community groups

Free advertising listings

Sudoku and crossword solutions R

E G A

D I C

V O

T H

A M P

U N

A W A

D G E

P A

E Y

L Y

B D

C T

C M

C R

E R

L S

Each month the Western Port News will run a Community Events page, where your school or organisation can promote upcoming events, fund raisers, social events, etc. at no charge.

O W N

I N

N G

This page is sponsored by the Balnarring & District Community Bank and listings are completely free. Listing should be about 40 words and include event name, date, time & address.

Send your listing to:

Community Events

PO Box 588, Hastings 3915 or email communityevents@mpnews.com.au PAGE 26

Western Port News

25 March 2020

Advertise in Western Port’s number one newspaper.

Call MPNG Classieds on 1300 666 808

WESTERN PORT scoreboard

Saints paid £75,000 for Heaton SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie MORNINGTON import Josh Heaton cost Scottish Premier League club St Mirren £75,000 in June 2018. The then 21-year-old became the most expensive signing in 25 years for the Buddies but the following year he joined Darlington on a free. “A lot of it comes down to the manager really and sometimes it just happens that way,” Heaton said. The young central defender is among thousands of players in Britain subject to the vagaries of the professional game and a look at his CV highlights the circuitous route he has taken to arrive at Dallas Brooks Park. Heaton is from Preston in Lancashire and came through Preston North End’s academy before signing pro forms in July 2015. Here’s what transpired after that: He joined Tamworth on loan in November 2015, Colne on loan in March 2016, Droylsden on a free in August 2016, Stalybridge Celtic on a free in October 2016, Bamber Bridge on a free in July 2017, Ramsbottom on a free in October 2017, Darlington on a free in November 2017, St Mirren for £75,000 in June 2018, Kidderminster on loan in June 2019, Darlington on a free in August 2019 and Bradford Park Avenue on a free last September. Former Celtic and Everton defender Alan Stubbs was St Mirren manager when Heaton penned a three-year deal at Love Street. Stubbs claimed St Mirren beat off competition from English Premier League and Championship clubs to sign the highly-rated Heaton. “I’m absolutely delighted,” Stubbs said at the time. “It’s a sign of intent and I’d like to thank the board for putting their trust in me. “You only have to look at the clubs who were wanting to get Josh, and to have got him is quite a coup.” Stubbs was sacked after four league games and last year the club released its star signing. But the direction of Heaton’s career changed dramatically thanks to a chance conversation a couple of months ago with a friend in Preston. This led to his move here as that friend also knew Mornington assistant coach Nathan Peel and striker Josh Hine. “I’d thought about coming to Australia for the past couple of years but everything happened really quickly once I’d actually decided to come over here,” Heaton said.

From Saints to Seagulls: Mornington import Josh Heaton (left) in FFA Cup action against Altona East Phoenix. Picture: John Punshon

“I applied for my visa and that came through within a few days and the next thing I knew my flight was booked for about three weeks later so within about a month I was here.” He arrived on Sunday 8 March and six days later played his first match for the Seagulls in a 2-1 FFA Cup win at home against Altona East Phoenix. It was 0-0 at half-time and Altona East Phoenix took the lead in the second half before a Hine double settled the issue. Heaton played in a central midfield role in the first half before switching to his preferred central defensive role in the second period. “I found it quite easy in the first half and to be honest I thought we were cruising,” he said. “We should have been two or three up at half-time then they scored a fluke goal from inside their own half and that completely changed it. “I went back to centre half and that’s my natural position. “We changed to three at the back and I enjoyed it and we went on to deservedly win the game.” The match gave Heaton an insight into the standard here and he’s confident that he’ll quickly adapt. “There’s not the same pressure here as you’d get back in the UK and it’s not as physical but there’s still pressure on me to perform because people see your CV and they expect big

things. “I’m just looking forward to being here, to getting my head down and working hard and enjoying my football. “I’m here to play well but I’m not here thinking I’m some sort of amazing footballer or anything like that. It’s not my style.” The transition from professional football in the UK to semi-professional ranks in Victoria’s State 1 South-East has been seamless so far for Heaton. That’s a measure of the way his teammates have welcomed him into their ranks. “They’re my type of lads to be honest. Everyone’s been so nice and helpful and although I haven’t been here for long I already know that I want to stay here. “I’ve got the impression that Mornington is a family club which is something I really like. “I think I’ve come to the perfect club for me and the perfect set-up.” But there’s a sombre mood at the club right now. Heaton arrived at Mornington a day after long-time team manager Tony McKay had collapsed and was rushed to hospital. McKay died in the early hours of Sunday 15 March and his funeral was held today (Tuesday). Due to the coronavirus pandemic numbers at today’s funeral had to be

capped at 15 and attendance was by invitation only. Mornington explained the situation on its facebook page: “The club would like to advise that due to the current climate the wake will also be put on hold until we can honour Tony with the proper memorial he deserves. “We appreciate that in this tough time some people will be upset by this message but hope that when the time is right we can all get together to celebrate such a great man.” Meanwhile Somerville playercoach Dave Greening has a plan for re-organising the 2020 and 2021 seasons. The teacher at Boneo Primary School is experienced in arranging sports events and believes that cooperation between local soccer, footy and cricket clubs is key to leading both codes back to normalcy. “My suggestion is starting both the local footy and soccer seasons on the first weekend in June,” Greening said. “This will give both codes 22 weekends to complete seasons by the end of October. “Cricket season is put back to the start of November with all teams playing each other twice but in just one-dayers as a one off. “Excluding the two-week break over Xmas this would give cricket 18 Saturdays to complete their season on 20 March.

“The 2021 footy and soccer seasons then begin on the first weekend in April next year when normal service is resumed. “Obviously this is subject to all being well and us all being able to resume playing, coaching and supporting the clubs and sports we love from the start of June this year. “But all sports need to come together for the greater good and support each other where we can all benefit and enable the continuation of local sports and clubs when safe to do so. “I just hope that common sense among the powers that be can prevail once we are on the other side of this thing.” Greening also wants FV’s competitions department to consider revisiting their fixture strategy. “We shouldn’t have catch-up rounds in a normal season anyway. I’m not aware of other countries doing it,” he said. “We should be playing on Saturday and Monday across Easter weekends, for example, with local derbies organised for Mondays like they do in the UK. “Imagine having Rosebud v Mount Martha at 12pm, Baxter v Somerville at 3pm and Skye v Strikers at 6pm on an Easter Monday. “This surely would bring in muchneeded revenue for those clubs.” In other news it was expected that Football Federation Australia would make a major announcement about the A-League, state NPL and grassroots competitions as we went to press. Many clubs have expressed dismay at FV’s continuing fees and charges while revenue streams have dried up but it’s understood that the national body was due to address that situation in an announcement impacting all levels of the sport.

Western Port News

25 March 2020

PAGE 27

WAREHOUSE CLEARANCE!

25% OFF UP TO

ALL BBQs

LEADERS IN HEATING, COOLING, FIREPLACES & BARBEQUES

25+ YEARS EXPERIENCE!

▶ ALL THE BIG BRANDS IN STORE ▶ TRAVEL Qs ▶ CHARCOAL BBQs ▶ KAMADO STYLE BBQ ▶ SMOKERS ▶ OUTDOOR KITCHENS

SALE ENDS 5TH APRIL 2020 OR UNTIL STOCK RUNS OUT

REVERSE CYCLE SPLIT SYSTEMS

FROM $733*

▶ 5 YEAR PART AND LABOUR WARRANTY ▶ EXPERTS IN AIR CONDITIONING ▶ PURIFIES YOUR AIR ENSURING A CLEAN AIR AT HOME ▶ GREAT EFFICIENCY

GET READY FOR

▶ WOODPECKER IS A SPECIALIST DAIKIN DEALER ▶ APPROVED BY THE ASTHMA FOUNDATION - BEST AIR ANYWHERE ▶ HEATING & COOLING AUSTRALIAN HOMES FOR OVER 50 YEARS ▶ INTERNATIONAL LEADING BRAND

Winter

15%*

WARMERS

OFF

on selected Nectre Woo d Heaters

50%* OFF

ALL Sculpt std flue kits .

MORNINGTON SHOWROOM 901 Nepean Hwy, Mornington Tel 03 5977 0899 Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm Sun 10am - 3pm

*E&OE - See website for full T&C’s - All promotions valid until 05.04.2020 or stock runs out

PAGE 28

Western Port News

25 March 2020

OAKLEIGH EAST SHOWROOM 1682 Princes Hwy, Oakleigh East Tel 03 9558 8666 Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 10am - 5pm