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BAIRNSDALE • PAYNESVILLE • LAKES ENTRANCE • METUNG • SALE

Where Community Matters 90TH EDITION DECEMBER 15, 2023

LOCALEVENT AMASSIVEHIT

NENTS ALEXHADTHEEDGEOVEROPPO

WINNER WITH 6-UNDER

BIG TURNOUT FOR BIG GARAGE GOLF TOURNAMENT

N Sunday 10 December, 45 professional golfers from all over Australia, descended on Bairnsdale Golf Club to compete in The Big Garage Subaru Pro-Am — the biggest professional golf event in East Gippsland, and the biggest single fundraising day for the Club. “Players come and compete for a prize pool of $13,500,” explains Jeff Graham, General Manager (GM) at Bairnsdale Golf Club. “This year, we had 38 local businesses sponsor the event, which was a record for

us. The naming sponsor is The Big Garage and Subaru, along with East Gippsland Shire who is also a cosponsor.” The two-day event kicked off with a junior competition on Saturday, where local children played nine holes alongside some around a dozen of the professional players. “The idea is to give kids a taste of what it’s like to play at a professional event alongside golf professionals. We've been doing it for three years now, and it’s continuing to grow

bigger and bigger every year.” “In order to take part, the kids need to be able to finish 9 holes, so it’s not for brand new players; but otherwise, any child is welcome to participate. We advertised it far and wide, and we ended up with around 26 kids on the day, which was great — and it went really well.” “We don't generally have any age limits, but this year the youngest was around 7 and the eldest was 15.” “Unfortunately, the weather

wasn’t the best, but everyone persevered through and it ended up being a really great day. The overall winners were Maddison Kelly and Kaitly Boers, and they played with professional golfer, Wade Lowrie. Of course, it's not about winning but we do give them a couple of little prizes as a token of their success.” “On Sunday, we had the 45 golf professionals, representatives from the 38 sponsoring businesses, and 53 local golfers who entered as individual players — which saw

over 180 total players!” “Alex Edge from NSW was the overall winner, with a score of 65, which is 6 under the card. This put him just one point clear of runner up, Gavin Fairfax (QLD).” “We also ran the Super Nearest To The Pin (Super NTP), which sees the professional who gets closest to the pin on the eighth hole win $1,500. This year’s winner was Reuben Lal (VIC).”

CONTINUES PAGE 3

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DECEMBER 15, 2023 The Great Eastern Mail

THE GREAT EASTERN

BAIRNSDALE • PAYNESVILLE • LAKES ENTRANCE • METUNG • SALE

Where Community Matters

Delivery throughout: Bairnsdale, Paynesville, Metung, Lakes Entrance and surrounds. Includes selected businesses and depot drops. Now in Sale. Also find us at: Local newsagents, shops and businesses. You can also view our latest publication FREE online at: www.holstadvertising.com/The-Gem along with previous editions. Publisher: Holst Advertising Display Advertising: Jason: 0428 366 651 Rick: 0413 278 422 Office: (03) 9686 0858 Editorial Material: news@holstadvertising.com rick@holstadvertising.com Advertising Material: matt@holstadvertising.com Publisher’s Note: The views and opinions expressed by advertisers and opinion-writers in this publication are those of the advertiser/writer and do not necessarily reflect that of the publisher and its policies. Editorial Note: The Great Eastern Mail encourages readers to send in their opinions and views on any matter relating to the region. If you have a story you would like to put forward, please contact our staff (above), and you may have your own piece published. Advertising: Advertising material created by the publisher is not to be reproduced or distributed to third parties unless given written consent by the publisher or author.

TELL US YOUR STORY Have your Club be part of 'The GEM'

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Four years on and still many fire recovery projects unfinished A

NOTHER Christmas is upon us without a new Thurra River Bridge to access the Thurra campground, the Cape Conran cabins are not replaced and a host of other fire recovery projects that have not been concluded, and in most cases commenced. Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull, said after four years this was disgraceful. “Not only that, but we have the East Cape Boardwalk that was to be delivered by the end of 2021, then 2022 and more recently in 2023, but will not be finished until next year. “It was only weeks ago the Departmental Secretary looked me in the eye and promised it would be open for Christmas this year. “You really wonder whether this government could organise to hit the water if they fell out of a boat. I don’t think I have seen such a level of incompetence. “It has to be considered that when the fires occurred just on four years ago, we had the commitment to rebuild quickly to help us recover economically. “However, when you consider the cabins and lack of access to the second largest campground in the area, it would have cost this region hundreds of thousands of dollars economically when you consider food, fuel, camping supplies, fishing gear, bait and all the other extras.

Vacant Cape Conran Cabins site.

Tim Bull at the Cape Conran boardwalk.

“The reality is, we have some great local Parks staff, but the middle and upper bureaucracy is bound up by red tape and a Minister who is more concerned with shooting our brumbies.” Mr Bull said at a forum held to update the community on bushfire recovery projects, we had Parks management congratulating themselves on having all parks reopened four years after the fires, backslapping for work they have done and countless references to the fact they were ‘building back better’ — spare me! It should have been commenced with an apology to the people of East Gippsland. “With the greatest of respect, when you are replacing infrastructure that is in some cases several decades old, I would certainly hope you would be ‘building back better’ as a basic requirement, not something to self-congratulate yourself on. What we want to see the Government doing is ‘building

back quicker’ than they have been. “Two examples given of building back better were that wooden bridges that burnt are being replaced with steel and concrete structures, and the toilet blocks are more modern. “Well, you would certainly hope they would be as a basic matter of course, but please just get on with the work,” said Mr Bull. “While I am pleased we have finally had an information session for the community, it revealed that in addition to the Cape Conran and Thurra Bridge works: • The government is still completing engineering assessments on the Yeerung River Bridge, with still no decision on whether it needs to be repaired to replaced and they are “working through” whether it needs to be able to take larger fire fighting vehicles — of course it does! There was no explanation of why these assessments have not been done after such a long period.

• Four years on, tree assessments are still taking place on some tracks at Buchan that are not yet open. • • Design work is still not complete on the Rangers’ hut replacement at Buchan, let alone work started. • There is still no final design for the replacement accommodation in the North Arm area of the Buchan Caves Reserve, four years on. • Structures on the Spring Creek walking track are still not repaired. • Mallacoota Inlet jetty upgrades have not even started. • The shared pathway between Marlo and Cape Conran is now in jeopardy due to cost blow outs, despite Minister Lily D’Ambrosio promising it would be built. “We are not talking four months here, this is four years on and we are still doing engineering reports and design work. Not good enough,” Mr Bull said.

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The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

BACKINFULLSWING PRO-AMPROVESANOTHERWINNERASGOLFERS HITBAIRNSDALE

Jingle All the Way: East Gippsland's 2024 Carols!

G FROM FRONT PAGE ARREN Robbie is the Dealer Principal at The Big Garage, which has sponsored the event for 13 years. “Originally, the sponsorship came about when Keith Corr, a previous Dealer Principal and now an East Gippsland local, picked up the Subaru Franchise. The sponsorship works well for us, because over the years we have sold many cars to the Golf Club members, their families, and their friends,” explains Darren who says he’s “not the best golfer” but does love getting out on the green when he can. “The event was amazing, as usual,” he adds. “Jeff and his team at Bairnsdale Golf Club always do an incredible job. We are extremely lucky to be part of such an amazing club.” Jeff himself, is a former professional golfer. “I haven’t played for a living for 30 or so years; these days, I just play for fun.” Jeff has been the GM at Bairnsdale Golf Club for six years now. “As a member of the Professional Golf Association, you do an apprenticeship which enables you to get qualified in things like retail and business management. That way, if you don’t make it as a professional player, then

Winner Alex Edge (middle) with The Big Garage Dealer Principle Darren Robbie (left) and Shire of East Gippsland Mayor Tom Crook. Left inset: Kaitlyn Boers, Wade Lowrie and Maddison Kelly. Above left inset: The Big Garage Dealer Principle Darren Robbie.

ET ready to soak in the festive vibes right in the heart of East Gippsland! Come along with us to the carol gatherings set against the stunning backdrop of this charming region. Whether it's in cosy town squares or amidst the lush greenery of parks, East Gippsland comes alive with Christmas music that warms the soul. Discover the local Carols taking place in your area by checking out the details below: MALLACOOTA CHRISTMAS CAROLS Mudbrick Pavilion Lions Park - Develling Dve, Mallacoota Saturday 16 Dec 4:00pm BEMM RIVER CAROLS Bemm River Hotel Saturday 16 Dec 4.30pm

you've got other skills to fall back on.” “I've been working in golf shops and golf clubs full-time for a while now, and I quite enjoy it. It's a great environment. People are there to have fun. It's a nice lifestyle.” “Golf is a sport for people who have patience, and a willingness to persevere, because it can be a very frustrating game. But it really is a sport for everyone and anyone. The sport is

GOODMAN’S SEED, FARM & GARDEN CENTRE

BAIRNSDALE CHRISTMAS CAROLS McLeod St, Bairnsdale Saturday 16 Dec 7:00pm

going through a boom at the moment; ever since COVID, participation in golf has grown. Our club has probably seen a 20 per cent increase in participation over the past three years; that's good for the club and good for the sport.”

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Village Green - Metung Rd, Metung Sunday 17 Dec 6:00pm Jeanette Jones, Colin Jones, Bairnsdale Golf Club General Manager Jeff Graham, and Ros Pearce all teed up fot he event.

ORBOST CHRISTMAS EVE FESTIVAL & CAROLS Nicholson St, Orbost Sunday 24 Dec 6:00pm

GOODMAN’S SEED, FARM & GARDEN CENTRE OPENING HOURS: MON-FRI 8 am – 5:30 | SAT 9 am – 3 pm

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

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Dec 21 & 22 - 8:00 – 5:30 Dec 23 - 26 – CLOSED Dec 27 - 29 - 8:00 – 5:30 Dec 30 - 9:00 – 12:00 Dec 31 & Jan 1 - CLOSED Jan 2 - OPEN AS NORMAL 8:00 – 5:30

AT: 595 Princes HWY, Bairnsdale VIC 3875 | E: sales@goodmanscrt.com.au | E: (03) 5152 4024

DECEMBER 15, 2023 The Great Eastern Mail

Your number 1 multi-skilled team

IRE a Hubby Bairnsdale/Lakes Entrance has completed many projects, including small and large home maintenance work, extensive renovations, new decks and pergolas, leaks, plastering and painting, the list is very long. The team at Hire a Hubby are professional. What is professional? This means arriving on time, dressing clean and tidy, no swearing, no smoking on site, all cuts are straight, all grout lines are even. All job sites are left in pristine order with all rubbish removed. Why Hire a Hubby? First and foremost, the team at Hire a Hubby have the experience and expertise to handle a wide range of tasks efficiently and safely. They’ve likely encountered similar problems before and know the best approaches to solve them. This expertise can save you time, money, and the frustration of trial and error. The team at HAH know the smallest detail can make the biggest difference. Attention to detail means observing every aspect of a task and ensuring all the components are working seamlessly. Secondly, Hire a Hubby possess the necessary tools and equipment to get the job done correctly. We use the best and latest materials designed for best results.

Lastly, Wayne, Darren and Michael can provide a level of quality to your projects that many others may struggle to achieve. The team have honed their skills through years of experience and can deliver results that meet or exceed your expectations. Our multi skilled team are adept with technical skills that were taught through formal training and many years of hands on experience. Example of these skills are tiling, painting, carpentry, and more. Wayne has developed, rapport and trust when relating to our customers. His demeanour, communication skills and ability to solve problems are not only an asset to Hire a Hubby but to all our clients

throughout East Gippsland. Improving our skills Just like any other set of skills, all building and renovating skills can be improved with time and practice. Whether it’s the latest building materials, the latest tool or gadget, a new technique, new building codes. When you want to renovate your bathroom, kitchen or laundry, when you want a new deck, pergola, fence, steps etc — don’t waste your time with the ordinary. Call your No. 1 team for all things maintenance — Hire a Hubby Bairnsdale/Lakes Entrance. We have skeleton staff on board this holiday period, call us for those last minute ‘Santa’ or emergency jobs now.

METUNGMATESMEET

ETUNG men will remember preCovid lunches held at various establishments over many years to be a memorable time of good food, drinks and an opportunity to “catch up” with friends as well as meet new locals. The restrictions of Covid put an end to such gatherings. In the winter of 2023 three locals, Malcolm Coppock, Michael Harris and Malcolm Reed discussed the idea of recommencing these lunches under the banner of Metung Mates. It would

be a purely social group, providing an opportunity for local men to mix with old friends and meet future friends, with no political, religious or social cause background, no guest speakers or fund raising activities. In September 2023 the first Metung Mates luncheon was held at Aroma Metung, with approximately 20 attending. All agreed it was a most enjoyable day. With a decision to meet on a seasonal quarterly basis the second luncheon

event was held this week, again at Aroma, where mates attending enjoyed an excellent luncheon and the opportunity to chin wag and enjoy the company of other locals. Newcomers to the area are especially welcome and it is a perfect chance to meet others in the area. The luncheons are held quarterly, with their autumn event planned for 12 March 2024. For details about future events email metungmates@gmail.com and add your name to their contact list.

YOUR No.1MULTI-SKILLED TEAM IN WISHING ALL OUR CUSTOMERS A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A SAFE & HAPPY NEW YEAR WE ARE CLOSED: DEC 25 & 26 AND JAN 1, 2024

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The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

playful paws

Santa Paws is coming to town!

‘TRUSTED PERSONAL ‘TRUSTED PERSONAL CARECARE WHEN EXCELLENCE COUNTS’

Mr Adrian Aitken

Playful Paws Megs Hopman

OU better watch out...! Christmas is a fun time of the year for us, lots of family time, chocolates, alcohol, pudding and events! Do you have a dog that loves to investigate everything? Or perhaps have a new puppy at home? Here are some tips to make the festive period go a little more smoothly! • While Christmas is a special occasion and an excellent time for sharing, many items on the Christmas lunch menu can cause health problems in pets. Pets are not able to digest or metabolize many human foods and as a result they can cause illness in your furry friend. Some common festive foods your pet should avoid are cooked bones, chocolate, alcohol, mince pies, pudding, gravy and stuffing, fatty meat, stones from stone fruit. • Watch for signs of being unwell — this can include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea. If you think your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t, contact your vet. • You could buy an extra

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

M.B.B.S., Ph.D., F.R.A.C.S.

SPECIALIST GENERAL SURGEON

special lunch for your dog — like a fresh piece of meat, or you could bake them a meatloaf! • Keep all presents (especially food based presents) up high, out of your dogs reach. Your dogs will love to investigate the presents. So give them at least one of their own to unwrap. Just like children the tearing up of wrapping paper is almost as good as the gift! • Some dogs will love to be part of the adventure and love to play games and have pats, however others need space and it’s important to respect this. Just like us! • Ensure they have a calm place to retreat to — this could be a bedroom or crate

— allow them time away from the festivities (and keep them out of mischief). Naps are super important at this busy time! • You can encourage your visitors to help with socialising — building your dogs confidence around new people, or introducing some fun obstacle courses in the back yard. Have fun with your dog and build the best relationship — know that your dog wants to be the best they can be. It’s important to remember to be calm, clear, confident and consistent — especially during the busy times! Reward all the behaviour you like! Have a Happy and Safe holiday period.

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DECEMBER 15, 2023 The Great Eastern Mail

viewpoint

What is this? A centre for ants?

Julia Bergin Crikey

NE-way ramps, lazy Susans, cookie bribes, and dance choreography: how do ants in the red centre keep track of work trips to and from the nest? “How do you enforce a oneway street for ants?” Crikey asked Macquarie University ant behavioural expert Dr Cody Freas. “There’s a ramp here,” he responded, pointing to a twometre-long gentle gradient on one side of a makeshift ant ring. “But how do you enforce that?” Crikey pressed. “What they really want is to get home as quickly as possible. So, if they have food and a straight path back to the nest, these ants should always go up and over the ramp,” Freas said. Freas is part of a small Macquarie University team that’s one week into a threemonth Alice Springs-based research project investigating “turn-back” behaviours of two species of ants — the red centre exclusive red honey ant and the more common desert bull ant. They wanted answers on how forager ants oriented themselves in relation to the

nest and just how quickly they could reorient when mental maps and in-built compasses were deliberately thrown out of whack. That process involved electromagnetic coils that flipped north and south, which put the sun and other geographic checkpoints in the wrong place; ant arenas with shields, screens (and ramps) to obfuscate views and issue a complete overhaul of the visual landscape; and a ground-level lazy Susan that displaced ants with a simple quarter-turn swivel. “What we’re really interested in is how these guys quickly learn those cues to immediately get back to the nest. They can’t be out for very long or they’ll die from the heat, so they need to be extremely good navigational learners,” Freas said. The researchers were primarily focused on the stop-start behaviour of forager ants (workers charged with finding and retrieving food for the nest). No ant is born a forager, but it’s a natural career progression for them to become one. Following a month of “safe” inside shift work caring for larvae and running nest maintenance, ants graduate to the much more dangerous task of foraging outside the nest.

Active red honey ants come and go from the nest. (Image Supplied by Dr Cody Freas)

As part of formal selfinduction proceedings, forager ants typically take themselves on “learning walks” where they walk a certain distance, stop, look back over their shoulder for half a second to orient themselves towards the nest and familiarise themselves with landmarks near the nest, and then keep walking. These walks gradually increase, and after three to five rounds, they deem themselves fit and able to forage. Freas described this as an “end of life job”, with ants not likely to last more than five days on the books: “They’re either being eaten or they’re getting exhausted. Even though they’re one of the most heat-tolerant species of ants in the world, the sun’s

so hard on them. You’ll see ones nearing their five days shaking as they’re moving. That means they’re breaking down.” In man-made arenas, daily nest-to-food-to-nest field trips were much quicker due to proximity and plenty of food stock. As a result, forager ants typically lived much longer — two to three weeks. Their diets (under experimental conditions) were a healthy combination of crushed-up cookies (carbs) and cut-up mealworms (protein). Freas said cookies had not been particularly popular with ants thus far but caveated that it was common practice for appetites to chop and change throughout the season. “Usually each year, at a certain point, they just get full

of carbs. They’ve got three packets worth of cookies in the nest, they’re completely satiated, and some signal goes out through the nest, which is ‘No more, only protein now’. They’ll never say no to protein.” Although it was early days in their research, Freas said the team were already noticing some behavioural patterns in the ants — both change of scene and discovery of food prompted ants to do a geographical stocktake. The latter finding was particularly ground-breaking as it challenged existing literature that ants would “turn-back” once in possession of food. “The turn-back is highly choreographed, like a dance move. Step, stop, step, stop, step, stop longer, maybe a little bit farther, and then they go back and move forward. We call them fixation phases, where their head is still at each point. And it’s thought that as they’re doing that they’re checking their orientation,” he said, adding that it was like a human walking through a door where all of a sudden the landscape changes. “They’re looking back at the door.” What the researchers observed was that the ants saw food, turned back to the

nest, collected the food, and then turned around (not back) to go home. Turnbacks and turn-arounds were two very different things, Freas said. The former was deliberate and the latter was instinct. Because of the climate, these ants were very much visual learners. During the summer months, they were active — the ground was too hot for pheromone trails (any chemical residue from family, friends, and esteemed colleagues evaporated immediately) — leaving them to their own navigational devices. Although the heat also accelerated their deaths, it did benefit food stocks as insects that landed on the hot ground died within seconds. “If that’s not happening, there’s no point for them to be out,” Freas said, adding that’s why Crikey had seen so few. Big storms had flushed out arenas, wilted cardboard sets, and made the ground both sodden and cool. Any sign of bad weather and the red honey ants shut up shop. Put simply: unlike ants that live in wet environments and “can deal with being in a puddle”, these desert dwellers hate the rain. They can’t swim and “almost instantly” drown. Julia Bergin Crikey Northern Territory Correspondant, Alice Springs

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opinion - across the table Generally speaking, with Will Bedggood

HE surprise election of libertarian economist, Javier Milei, as Argentine President last month triggered renewed focus on Argentina’s appalling three-digit inflation, its uncontrolled debt and its disappointing standard of living. Milei promised to take an axe to the country’s money printer, the Argentine Central Bank, and to stabilise its public spending, while taking the Government’s foot off the commodity sector by reducing export taxes. Let’s see how this new President goes. Crises like this are periodic in Argentina, and they often trigger renewed comparisons here in Australia. Analysts recall that notwithstanding the similar economic histories of the two countries to 1945, Australia continues to outperform. Since Australia’s reform era of the 1980s and 1990s, Australia has certainly done significantly better. But both countries shared comparably poor performance in the 1960s and 1970s for similar reasons: too much inefficient tariff-protected manufacturing, hosts of unproductive state-owned enterprises that dominated key sectors, and over-valued currencies which penalised export

Don’t dry for me Argentina competitiveness. Setting aside Argentina’s more volatile politics, both countries were running on unnervingly parallel paths prior to the Hawke and Howard governments. They were both plagued by serious balance of payments constraints, and both were having serious trouble maintaining economic growth while protecting their domestic markets. Although Australia’s GDP per head was well ahead of Argentina’s on a nationwide basis, it is thought that Argentina’s most affluent provinces, those closer to the River Plate, were barely behind Australia at all. The Australian Financial Review recently editorialised that Australia’s essentially British institutional heritage produced better social and economic performance over time. The editorial pointed to the rule of law, respect for the norms of parliamentary democracy, and respect for property rights among other key elements of Australia’s British cultural inheritance. The editorial implied these characteristics explained Australia’s steady development compared Argentina’s long-run stagnation. Maybe there’s some glimmer

of truth in this: Australia has mostly succeeded in managing outright conflict between capital and labour or between different economic forces. Consistent, resilient rules of the game are undeniably good for investment and growth. On the other hand, Australia and Argentina’s underlying shared frustrations and risks have always been evident and there are worrying signs they now strengthening in the Australia of 2023. Both economies rise or fall on the strength of their commodity export sectors, which have been the internationally competitive, basic engines of national wealth for decades and remain so. In Argentina the internationally competitive export successes comprise grains, meat, legumes and soy products — the fruits of the fabulous Pampa which often boasts twenty metres of fertile topsoil. In Australia, our top performers have been wool and broad acre grazing and agriculture, with mining contributing significantly. The political systems in both countries wrestle with the challenge of ensuring these outward-looking industries are given every chance to succeed on world markets when the

metropolitan populations that host them and depend on them are disconnected from them geographically and politically. In Argentina, the unionbased leftwing Peronist political movement has historically transferred the surplus from the Pampa to their supporting vote generating city manufacturing and union coalitions. In Australia until the Hawke and Howard reforms this was achieved by the Tariff Board (later called the Industries Assistance Commission), which subsidised the citybased manufacturing sector at the expense of exports. Compounding this, Australia’s wage-setting system set manufacturing wage rates at such uncompetitive levels that higher tariffs would then have to be introduced to provide the extra protection. Most of this apparatus was dismantled by 2000. The result was the explosive growth of the mining sector in Australia, the growth of services, the arrival of cheaper consumer imports and consequently massive economic restructuring as much high cost local production was scrapped. Argentina was never quite able to make this shift. But it did

become much more attractive to mining investment because Argentine Governments were sensible enough in the main to keep it safe from aggressive export taxation. But now in Australia the lessons of the Hawke and Howard eras are being forgotten and we are beginning to look like Argentina again, cultural differences notwithstanding. For instance, last year the Queensland Labor Government, without warning, raised coal royalties to one of the highest levels in the world. BHP responded by promising never to invest in the State again until Queensland’s royalty regime fell back into acceptable levels. Similarly, early this year the Albanese Government abruptly introduced price controls on domestic sales of gas. This effectively created two markets for gas where previously there had only been one and producers found themselves subsidising domestic manufacturing gas customers. Suddenly a host of new projects were made uninvestible because they were now exposed to Australian Government price controls and customers including major Japanese trading houses began to review their dependence on

the Australian LNG industry. Then followed a ban on live sheep exports, as the Albanese Government sought to pander to city-based animal welfare supporters. Farmers be damned. Last week the Albanese Government brought in a new industrial relations structure to prohibit high wage but flexible, casual employment in mining, among other sectors. The idea is to re-introduce unionism in that sector and deliver so-called comparative wage justice across the economy. This is simply a classically Argentine-style attack on a rich, outward-looking commodity industry. The Financial Review’s editorial was wrong. There’s no reason to think that Australia’s British-style institutions will always save Australia’s bacon. For much of the twentieth century we suffered long periods of mediocre economic performance underpinned by populist, inward-looking policymaking of the sort that keeps Argentina down as well. Faced with a stagnating economy in the early 1980s Australia was able to reform itself. In retrospect, both major political parties behaved with tremendous foresight and sophistication. Not anymore. State and Federal Australian Governments are encouraging Australia’s version of Peronism to rise again.

DECEMBER 15, 2023 The Great Eastern Mail

CHARITYSHOPPING NIGHTSUCCESS

AST month, Make-A-Wish® Australia facilitated the 11th annual East Gippsland shopping spree in Bairnsdale’s CBD. Eighty shoppers kicked off the festive spirit, with many dressing up to relish in the generosity of the participating local businesses, which included: Bairnsdale Camping and Outdoors, Bairnsdale Lotto, Bulmers Gifts, Jay’s-Bath-Body-Home, Lloyd’s Quality Menswear, Nicholson River Soaps, Samantha Abbott, Toyworld, TS Fashions, and Whispers Lingerie. Further celebrating a great night of bargain shopping in the lead up to Christmas, the Mitchell River Tavern welcomed all the shopping spree guests to enjoy supper and the chance to win prizes donated by each of the night’s 10 participating stores. Make-A-Wish East Gippsland branch president, Bev Sinclair, was thrilled with the night’s success. “This is the 11th year we have coordinated the shopping spree around the Bairnsdale CBD, and I think it has been the biggest and most successful one we’ve had for many years,” she said. “The atmosphere in our shops this year was brilliant, and the feedback

BAIRNSDALECAMPINGANDOUTDOORS we’ve had is that everyone had a fantastic night. The generosity of the shop owners is a huge part of the event’s success. Not only do they pay to be a part of it all, but they also provide a gift for prizes at the end of the night, as well as offering bighearted discounts for purchases on the night.” “We really do have a wonderfully supportive community,” Bev said. “Thank you to everyone involved, from the shop teams and the enthusiastic shoppers who really got into the spirit of the season, to

“ After I was told

‘you have cancer,’ I didn’t hear anything else.

”

our fantastic team of volunteers who have brought such amazing fundraising events together throughout the year. This year’s shopping spree raised more than $3000, which will go a long way to help make the wishes of seriously ill children come true.” The East Gippsland team is looking forward to bringing more fundraising fun next year, so keep an eye out in the new year for events including trivia nights, raffles and, of course, another shopping spree in November.

TOYWORLD Visit the Make-A-Wish® Australia website for further details on how wishes are granted for ill children across the country and how you can become involved as a volunteer.

NICHOLSONRIVERSOAPS

TSFASHIONS

The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

The cramped room inside the Lakes fire station means the new truck cannot be housed on-site with the existing appliances. Gippsland East MP, Tim Bull is calling for a new station immediately.

New station urgent to house new truck

AKES Entrance Fire Brigade last week received a new truck, which is good news for members, but it needs a new fire station to be able to be housed, said Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull. “Prior to last year’s election, we committed funding to build the new station as we knew this vehicle was coming, but also knew it would not fit inside the current facility, so I believe it is currently being ‘housed’ at a private residence.

“The current Lakes’ station is almost 100 years old and bursting at the seams, and the new vehicle cannot be accommodated on site with the existing fleet. “I had a look through the current facility some time ago with former captains Geoff Bassett and Bob Richardson and, apart from the struggle to house appliances, there is also substandard equipment storage areas. “Over the journey, Lakes brigade members have

been very active in their advocacy, and I’ve also had numerous discussions with both members and CFA management on this topic. “Apart from the size limitations of the current site, the location is not perfectly sighted for a quick response. “I will keep advocating for the outcome the town and CFA members need, but if this does not show the government the need for urgent action, I am not sure what does,” he said.

Gippsland Lakes

Complete Health

The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

viewpoint

Solving the inflation crisis Robert Gottliebsen & John Dahlsen

HE first step in solving any crisis is to recognise that there is a deep problem and isolate the causes. Previously John Dahlsen and I tried to isolate the deep causes of the cost of living/inflation crisis. Now we are going to canvass the solutions. Given the mess we have created by focusing our inflationary blows on 30 per cent of the population using the blunt interest rate weapon, today’s noninterest rate solutions will foster a community focus. But there will be wide disagreement. What makes non-interest rate solutions tough is that too many of our decision makers, influences and commentators are remote from those in distress and so interest rates become just a number or a pawn on the chess board. The reality is that the federal, state and local governments are causing a significant proportion of Australia’s inflation and their failure to recognise the impact of their actions is causing huge damage to our low-income earners and mortgagees in distress. Government expenditure as a percentage of GDP is increasing and GDP per capita is falling. It is the private sector that drives the economy, yet governments are allocating more and more GDP to non-productive activity. We will canvass solutions in housing, energy, migration, the combination of small enterprise and productivity and the industrial relations bill. Housing If we are going to solve the housing shortage we cannot afford to have state and local governments adding 40 per cent to the cost of dwellings. And if the federal government can’t enforce solutions we have to

debate the current structure of state and local governments. To reduce dwelling costs by, say, 20 per cent we start with the taxes and then set up simple and fast mechanisms for determining zoning rules and building permits. Currently two-year waits are the norm and that explodes costs and deters capital. There are plenty of models overseas to fix it. Ironically in his final months in office former Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, headed down this track and Victoria needs to accelerate his scheme. Andrews isolated areas for clear zoning and vowed that permits would be fast of basic rules were followed. Any reduction in housing taxes can be partly funded by retrenchments in the bureaucracies dedicated to boosting housing costs. While cost reduction will help, another source of state revenue will be required. The money needs to be raised by the federal government and only handed to states that dismantle their structures are boosting housing costs. Higher GST will come to mind, as will abandoning the July tax cuts. If Labor still want to raise money from franking credits then everyone must be treated equally. Perhaps only a certain percentage of a company’s profits could be paid in fully franked dividends. To lift our productivity, Australian companies need to invest more in their business. An adjusted franking credit system would help production as well as funding the reduction in the cost of dwellings. Another idea is to limit the value of a residence for those receiving age pension benefits. None of those moves will be popular, which is why it’s easier to keep pulverising the 30 per cent. A clear danger in any move to lower housing costs is that banks will increase their lending and the price of dwellings will rise to absorb

the concession. Accordingly, banks will need to be curbed, probably by changing the risk-reward ratios to encourage lending to business. When Paul Keating introduced his magnificent superannuation scheme it was possible for most people on ordinary wages to buy a house, so the Keating plan was to provide retirement money in addition to the dwelling. Now people on ordinary incomes simply can’t buy a house. Young people are angry because the savings in superannuation can’t be used for what is clearly the best retirement asset — a dwelling. If super savings could be used to fund the first dwelling the current generation of young people will embrace it. We also need to tackle the building costs of apartment towers but that’s a huge subject. When it comes to the rent crisis, states must be required to remove all special taxes on rental properties and adjust tenancy laws to be fair to both sides. Negative gearing for genuine rental properties must be locked in so investors can be assured of the benefit. If we reduce the cost of land via permits and zoning then overseas institutions are ready to build complexes for rent in Australia. NSW is our biggest problem. Energy We are embarking on an incredibly high-cost process to reduce carbon emissions because we have not taken into account the limited life of solar and wind installations and the enormous costs of erecting cables to deliver their power, plus the need for back-up when solar and wind don’t produce power. The new, low-cost, smaller and safer nuclear installations are transforming the rest of the world and we have to embrace them. And new power-generating technologies are now also coming forward, particularly in China. We can achieve quick carbon reduction via gas power stations close to power lines, replacing coal.

Later they will be replaced by the new technologies. Rising power costs are in part a result of bad government. Migration Flooding the country with a vast number of migrants when we have nowhere to house them is a disaster. Apart from students the only migrants allowed in large numbers should be those with skills ready to be used, particularly in building and health. Small enterprises and productivity Australia’s rapidly declining productivity contributes to enterprises passing on cost rises in prices. In his submission to the Productivity Commission, former share broker, Bill Ranken, pointed out that small and medium business employ 7.4 million Australians or two-thirds of the private sector workforce but we rank 32nd for global financing of small and medium business. Bank financing of small and medium enterprises has been slashed in favour of housing and that needs to be reversed. Unlike other countries we have few institutions that make equity capital available to these enterprises. We need at least one political party to concentrate on policies for small and medium business. The industrial relations bill This bill attacks casual employment, contracting and the gig economy and will slash the powers of the ACCC so there can be a cartel between unions and big transport companies to lift prices. This should be at the top of our list but it’s at the bottom because I have covered it widely. It will send the 30 per cent of sufferers much deeper into poverty and may trigger a community revolt due to the inflationary burden being increasingly borne by a minority of the population. Kindly reprinted with the permission of Rob Gottliebsen.

Gippsland teachers collaborate on sustainability education

IPPSLAND teachers recently came together at Nakunbalook Environmental and Cultural Education Centre in Sale to discuss sustainability initiatives and teaching methods as part of Sustainability Victoria’s ResourceSmart Schools Program. The collaborative event featured East Gippsland Shire Council’s Waste Education Officer Tina Bills and Wellington Shire Council’s Sustainability Education Officer Sharon Ray. They talked about how schools can be helped to reach their green goals. Ms Bills noted that teachers can contact her via the Council website for guidance on waste monitoring, designing recycling bin signage and undertaking other wasterelated projects and initiatives. Gippsland Grammar teacher Todd Cook spoke about how his school’s revegetation and sustainability projects are interwoven with wellbeing outcomes for students and the wider school community. East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Tom Crook said collaboration with Gippsland teachers to advance sustainability through the ResourceSmart Schools Program is an important initiative. “This initiative cuts costs, reduces consumption, and integrates sustainability into school curriculums. At Council, we're dedicated to helping schools achieve sustainability goals and create a more ecoconscious future," Cr Crook said. Representatives from various schools, including St Brendan’s Primary School in Lakes Entrance, Gippsland Grammar's Bairnsdale Campus, Stratford Primary School, Sacred Heart Primary School in Morwell, Kosciuszko Street Primary School in Traralgon and Foster Primary School also participated in the event. For more on the ResourceSmart Schools program or for details on the next Teacher Environment Network Meeting, contact ResourceSmart Schools Facilitator Tammy Logan via the Sustainability Victoria website or email tammy.logan@ sustainability.vic.gov.au

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DECEMBER 15, 2023 The Great Eastern Mail

advice - ask Emma

hot and cold

Emma Woodcock Counsellor Q: Dear Emma so much has happened to my family this year and I’m dreading our get-together over Christmas. Arguments and differences of opinion have increased since COVID, and with all that is going on in the world right now, I am scared that there will be more raising of voices and shouting at each other. I want to avoid it all but know that is just not possible. But if I have to listen to one more argument about politicians, I am going to scream! I just want the joy and hope of the season back. A: Firstly, I want to acknowledge the strength it takes to navigate these situations and seek support. It's not uncommon for family dynamics to intensify during the holidays, and your proactive approach to addressing these challenges is admirable. You could just let this fester, but instead, you’ve reached out for support. Well done! Let’s begin by delving deeper into the intricacies of communication, by focusing on potential conflict traps that may arise during family interactions. These are common in most arguments, whether at Christmas, work or any other time of the year so by learning how to navigate these challenges with an awareness will allow you to have healthier conversations. Common Conflict Traps in Communication: Assuming Intentions: • Trap: Assuming you know the intentions behind someone's words or actions can lead to misunderstandings. It's easy to misinterpret and assume negative motives, fuelling conflict. • Solution: Practice active listening and ask for

ineastgippsland

What is being said on the socials INGImage Stock

Christmas conflict Maintain the joy at festive get-togethers

clarification before making assumptions. Openly communicate your own intentions to promote mutual understanding. Sweeping Generalizations: • Trap: Using sweeping statements like "You always" or "You never" can escalate tensions by making the conversation more accusatory and less constructive. • Solution: Be specific about the behaviour or situation you want to address. Use ‘I-statements’ to express yourself and keep the focus on the present issue rather than making broad generalizations about someone's character. Avoiding the Real Issue: • Trap: Sometimes, conflicts arise from unspoken or underlying issues. Avoiding the core problem and addressing only surfacelevel concerns can lead to unresolved tension. • Solution: Encourage open dialogue about deeper concerns. Be willing to express your feelings and listen actively to understand the root causes of the conflict. Reacting Emotionally: • Trap: Reacting impulsively based on emotions without considering the consequences can intensify conversations or arguments. Emotional responses

generally make the other party defensive and reactive too. • Solution: Take a moment to pause and collect your thoughts before responding. Responding thoughtfully rather than reactively can contribute to a more constructive conversation. Win-Lose Mentality: • Trap: Approaching conflicts with a win-lose mentality, where one party must prevail, can hinder collaboration and compromise. • Solution: Foster a mindset of collaboration and mutual benefit. Focus on listening and seeking to understand rather than agree or win someone over. You can acknowledge the other party’s point of view without adopting it as your own. So that leaves another question, how to best avoid theses conflict traps I have highlighted? • Practice Active Listening: Actively listen to what others are saying without interrupting. Repeat back what you've heard to ensure understanding before responding. • Choose Your Words Wisely: Be mindful of the language you use. Use "I" statements to express your feelings and needs, avoiding blame and accusations. • Seek Common Ground:

Look for areas of agreement or common ground. Emphasize shared goals and values to build a foundation for resolving conflicts. • Consider Non-Verbal Cues: Pay attention to non-verbal cues, both your own and others'. These cues can provide valuable insights into emotions and feelings. • Take a Time-Out When Needed: If emotions are running high, it's okay to take a break. Allow yourself and others the space to cool down before returning to the conversation. That last one is so important. Give yourself permission to take a break. Christmas can put extra pressure on us all and honouring our capacity and limits helps us show up for our families in healthier, more beneficial ways. Lastly, I want to encourage you to consider how to set clear boundaries for communication with your family beforehand, if possible, both in terms of topics and tone. By agreeing on certain discussion limits, everyone is responsible for preventing conversations from escalating into arguments, not just you. Emphasise the importance of respectful language and avoiding blame to maintain healthier conversations this Christmas. I hope that these communication strategies help to create a more harmonious

So happy to see Santa is still fishing on the bridge in Stratford. Our town has embraced the holiday spirit with all the decorations everywhere. The parade in Bairnsdale was such a fun day out for our family. A big thank you to the people that organised the Carols by Candlelight. My kids are so excited for the Carnival and Fireworks coming to Lakes Entrance. Parking around town is a joke! It's going to be even worse over the holidays. I feel like a criminal when I try to get my own cash out of the bank from a teller, so many questions. Shame on the Commonwealth Bank for restricting our banking hours in Lakes Entrance. Being told to stop breastfeeding my 9-month-old in local variety store. What year are we in? Contact us via our Facebook page to submit your hot or not in 30 words or less

and connected family environment for you all this holiday season. If you find that these challenges persist, feel free to reach out, and we can explore personalised approaches for you. Wishing you a season filled with understanding, open communication, and meaningful connections, Emma.

‘Ask Emma’ is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP, mental-health professional, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have. By submitting a question, you are agreeing to let The Great Eastern Mail use it and we may edit it for length and/or clarity. You can find Emma on Instagram @emmawoodcockcounsellor and Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/emmawoodcockcounselling

Emma Woodcock is a Registered Counsellor working with adolescents and adults with a broad range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, self-esteem difficulties, amongst many others. With experience in several evidence-based therapy modalities, Emma utilises skills from CBT, ACT, DBT, motivational interviewing, polyvagal therapy and more. Emma offers a practical approach to therapy, helping clients develop a personal 'toolkit’ of strategies and skills, so that they feel empowered to deal with life’s challenges everyday.

The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

crossword ACROSS

1. Mountain summit 7. Waist band 10. Jingling instruments 11. Two-of-a-kind 12. Smartly-groomed 13. Opening for coins 15. Informal roster 17. Fah, ..., lah, te, doh 18. Possessed 20. Military policemen (1,2) 21. Porridge flake 23. Use frugally, ... out 24. Fish eggs 26. Poke 27. Adolescent years 29. False god 31. Viewed suspiciously 32. Milled (timber) 33. Furtive look 35. Eat! (3,2) 37. Ship's bottom 39. Filthy place 41. After-tax (profit) 42. Uncle Sam (1,1,1) 43. Dine late 44. Blithe 45. Flit (about) 47. Curse 50. Mound 52. Blatant promotion 53. Minerals 54. Personal restraint (4-7) 55. Copied 56. Typist's slip-up 1. Tubes 2. Sneeze noise (1-6) 3. Philosopher, ... Marx 4. Border upon 5. Patisserie treat 6. Terrace level

7. Small religious group 8. Remorseful 9. Bumpkins 14. Frequently (poetic) 16. Belonging to us 18. Listening to (advice)

19. Thickness 22. Skilled 25. Hog's grunts 26. Time signal sound 27. TV's CSI actor, ... Danson 28. City, ... Salvador

30. Laugh out loud 34. Support (cause) 36. Car's transmission 38. Avidly 40. Until now 42. Tertiary student campus

3092

43. Brown pigment 46. 70s dance music 48. Elderly 49. ... & puff 50. Dabs 51. Ransack

sudoku

Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

DIFFICULTY: H H H H H

HE summer carnival on the Lakes Entrance foreshore is set to return for another fun-filled summer. The carnival, supported by East Gippsland Shire Council, helps bring people to Lakes Entrance, encouraging them to stop and spend in one of Victoria’s top tourist towns. "The Lakes Entrance Summer Carnival is a highlight on our community calendar, providing endless fun for all ages,” Cr Crook said. From late December to the end of the school holidays, the Lakes Entrance foreshore will come alive with the sounds of laughter, thrills, and the excitement of the carnival. "This is an opportunity

DIFFICULTY: H H H H H

3093

SOLUTIONS CAN BE FOUND ON PAGE 23

DOWN

Lakes Entrance Summer Carnival is coming! for our community to come together, celebrate the spirit of summer, and create lasting memories. The carnival is open in the evening, so it is the perfect opportunity spend the day exploring East Gippsland - by land or on water - and spend the evening in Lakes Entrance." Running daily from 6.00 pm until late, the carnival offers a diverse range of attractions catering to adrenaline-seeking adventurers and the little ones alike. "The Lakes Entrance Summer Carnival is a celebration of joy and togetherness. It's a time to embrace the thrill of the Ferris wheel, challenge friends in the dodgem cars, and test skills at

the sideshows," Cr Crook said. The carnival officially kicks off on Boxing Day, Tuesday, December 26 and will run until Sunday, January 21, 2024. Site set up begins on Thursday, December 14. The carnival will be packed up by Sunday, January 28 2024. "The Lakes Entrance Summer Carnival is a testament to our commitment to providing vibrant and inclusive events for our community. I encourage families and friends to come together and make the most of this spectacular summer experience." For more information and updates, visit the East Gippsland Shire Council Facebook page.

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The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

Christmas Gift Recipes | food & wine PREP: 5 MINS | COOK: 30 MINS

PREP: 30 MINS (+ 30 MINS DRYING) | MAKES: 35-40

Cranberry Jam A simple festive preserve with a tangy flavour, this spiced cranberry jam makes a lovely homemade gift and goes brilliantly with Christmas turkey or ham

Peppermint Creams Looking for the best peppermint creams for Christmas? The recipe makes 35-40 which means you can wrap half up as a Christmas gift, and save half for yourself

ingredients • 100ml lemon juice (about 2 lemons) • 870g icing sugar • A few drops green food colouring • 1 tsp peppermint extract • 100g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa solids), melted

method

ingredients • 1kg fresh or frozen cranberries • 400g dark soft brown sugar • Grated zest and juice of 1 big orange • 1 cinnamon stick, plus 1 extra, broken into 3, for bottling • 2 tsp rosewater

method 1. Put all the ingredients in a large pan over a low heat to dissolve the sugar. Add a little water if it looks too dry and stir gently as needed. 2. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the cranberries have softened and formed a rich, thick jam. 3. Spoon into 3 x 400g sterilised jars, adding a fresh piece of cinnamon stick to each one. Seal and keep chilled for up to 3 months.

PREP: 15 MINS (+ PLUS OVERNIGHT SETTING AND DRYING) | MAKES: 40

Wine talking

1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the lemon juice, icing sugar, green food colouring and peppermint extract. Tip the mixture onto a clean work surface and work into a smooth paste. This takes time and elbow grease! After 5-10 minutes of kneading with your hands you’ll have a smooth, thick, almost plasticine-like paste. Mould and gently roll into a smooth, round sausage shape that’s about 50cm long. 2. Cut off 1cm slices, then shape them into smooth-edged rounds (you should have 35-40 in total). Dip half of each peppermint cream into the melted chocolate, put on baking trays lined with non-stick baking paper, then leave to set in the fridge for 30 minutes. 3. When the chocolate has set, carefully peel the peppermint creams from the baking paper. Put them in a non-stick sealed container with non-stick baking paper between the layers and keep in the fridge or in a cool room until ready to pack as gifts.

Coconut Ice Homemade coconut ice is a great recipe for children to make and to give as an edible gift at Christmas

ingredients

• Butter, for greasing • 397g can condensed milk • 350g desiccated coconut

• 350g icing sugar • Few drops of vanilla extract • Pink or red food colouring

method 1. You will need a 23cm x 20cm x 4cm deep cake tin. Rub a little butter over the inside of the tin, then line the tin and 2 of the sides with baking paper. 2. Pour the condensed milk into a big bowl. Add the coconut, icing sugar and vanilla extract and mix really well. Spoon half of the mixture into the square cake tin, then flatten it by pressing with damp fingers. 3. Add a few drops of pink or red food colouring to the mixture left in the bowl and mix evenly. Spoon the coloured mixture over the top of the white layer and use damp fingers to smooth the top. 4. Loosely cover and put in a cool place overnight to set and dry out. Use the baking paper to lift the coconut ice from the tin, then cut into about 40 pieces. Store in an airtight tin in a cool place for up to 3 weeks.

Variety vs varietal A particular bug Ian Hollick bear of mine. Wine Maker While it is not the biggest sin in the world, it is somewhat irritating when these two terms are used incorrectly. The two are not interchangeable. Variety is a noun and refers to a specific grape, such as Chardonnay. You don’t “grow lots of varietals”, but lots of “varieties”. Varietal is an adjective. You can make a varietal wine made from one variety, for example. Or describe the varietal characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc as including passion fruit and grass. Reduction and reductive winemaking Reduction is a chemical reaction whereby an element or compound gains electrons (reduction), while another loses them (oxidation), resulting in the production of volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs), the most commonly known being hydrogen sulphide. Beyond a certain threshold, the presence of VSCs becomes a wine fault, with common descriptors including cabbage, rubber and rotten eggs. But at low levels reduction can be positive, resulting in the struck match, flint character typically associated with many Burgundian wines. Reductive winemaking is the conscious effort to produce a wine with as little exposure to oxygen as possible with the aim of producing this positive characteristic, but it’s not a guarantee. This can be done by minimising racking or lees stirring, the use inert protective gases. But success depends on the type of yeasts used and the redox potential (the likelihood of causing reduction) of a wine. Reserve, Reserva and Riserva An overused phrase which has become more of a marketing tool in many regions, particularly the New World regions. Here, the phrase is more often used to describe a wine that a producer considers of a higher quality than others in their own portfolio, but it has very little legal meaning. There are some countries that enforce legal requirements around its use. In Rioja Reserva can only be applied to wines that have undergone a minimum ageing period of three years, of which at least one must be in barrels and at least six months in the bottle. (For white the minimum ageing period is 2 years, with at least six months in barrels). Similarly, a Cava Reserva has to have been aged a minimum of 15 months. In Italy, regions such as Barolo, Barbaresco, Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino all have their own rules on the use of Riserva, while Austria requires Reserve wines to fulfil minimum alcohol levels and defined stylistic requirements in order to pass a quality test by a tasting board. However, the words you use to describe a wine are always correct, so don’t be put off by the wine snobs. It might help for others to understand what you are talking about though, by using some of the more readily acceptable wine terms. Santé.

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The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

College commends efforts made by Year 12 students

HE outcomes for students were impressive for the 140 students studying Unit 3 & 4 of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and the 27 students studying the VCE Vocational Major. Students successfully completed the certificate gaining recognition for their consistent work and effort and are now looking forward to moving towards the next chapter of life and taking opportunities giving them access to a wide range of options for the future. The acting principal of Nagle College, Mrs Gabrielle Costin said that she is proud of the achievements of the students and their approach to their learning program which embraces diverse pathways and offers a range of opportunities. We are particularly proud of the VCE VM students who have achieved notable success in the first year of the ‘One VCE’ program. For

our students who aspire to the pursuit of tertiary study, we extend our congratulations for their unwavering dedication to studies. It was pleasing that 12 per cent of students achieved an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) above 80. These scores were backed up by the whole student population with 74 per cent achieving an ATAR over 50. A special congratulations to our 2023 College VCE Dux, Jasmine Webster who achieved an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 92.05. Jasmine plans to commence studies to become a Primary School Teacher after enjoying a short break. Congratulations also to our 2023 Vocational Major Dux, Taylor Atkinson who has been an exemplary student and scored well on the range of employability skills. She is moving into a Camps Assistant role at Nagle College in 2024. Well done on these outstanding achievements. It was pleasing to see many students achieving study scores over 40 across a range of subjects. These subjects included Food Studies, Biology, Health and Human Development, English, Business Management, Legal Studies and VET Sport and Recreation. Students who undertook applied learning programs

Parking reminders this busy season

E From left: Taylor Atkinson, Gabrielle Costin, Jasmine Webster

through the Vocational Major have achieved outstanding outcomes with many students gaining employment, apprenticeships and traineeships. An engaging and challenging applied learning program has prepared and equipped students with the skills to make an effective transition into the workplace. The College is always looking to improve student performances by giving them every opportunity to achieve as well as they possibly can. Nagle College students have a strong track record of forging successful pathways in further education, training and employment once they finish secondary schooling —

and the 2023 group can look forward confidently to taking up opportunities to secure their future options. Mrs Costin said, “I would like to offer my sincere thanks and congratulations to the teachers and education support staff who have worked as a team to help the students achieve their best over the past 6 years. I also acknowledge the educational partnership shared with families, students and all staff at Nagle College. We should all be incredibly proud. “ Congratulations to all Nagle College students for their significant achievements throughout 2023. Let your light shine.

Buchan Church should remain in community hands

EDERAL Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is pleading with the Uniting Church ‘to do the decent thing’ and support the Buchan community’s effort to retain a disused church building for local use. The community has offered to buy the St Andrews Church in the middle of Buchan but has not been able to secure a deal from church leaders. “The uncertainty surrounding the decision to sell the church is very frustrating for local residents who have formed a community trust and demonstrated a willingness to maintain and improve the facilities for the benefit of the Buchan district,” Mr Chester said. “I have been contacted by

several residents who have expressed grave concerns that the church, which has been at the heart of the local community for many years, will be lost to private investment. “The St Andrews Church has an interesting history. It was bequeathed by local woman, Jane Davidson upon her death in 1952. “Jane was a pioneering woman of the district and has a mural dedicated to her in the town of Buchan. St Andrews was built and dedicated to Jane’s late father, Andrew Davidson and since then, the community has maintained the building at its own cost including local government rates and maintenance. “Selling the church to the highest bidder, against the community’s wishes, should not

be an option.” Mr Chester said he had written formally to church authorities and understood there had been some conversations with local residents but the community had run out of patience. “The community has formed the Jane Davidson Community Trust and is keen to ensure that the building is retained as a community asset at a reasonable price,” Mr Chester said. “The residents want some certainty and want access to the building to upgrade before it’s allowed to be damaged by neglect. “The church leaders need to do the decent thing and support this effort from a community which has endured tough times in recent years and would highly value the building.”

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has met with concerned Buchan residents (from left) Jack Free, Tim Davidson and Julie-Anne Mraz.

AST Gippsland Shire Council is asking everyone to think of others when parking during the busy holiday season. To support our local traders and ensure people have the opportunity to visit the shops and services they need, Council kindly asks that drivers take note of any time limits when parking to make sure they don’t overstay the limit. Time limits on parking spaces are set to allow as many people as possible to have access to parking in an area. This approach helps businesses and customers by ensuring parking is available for as many potential customers as possible and improves access for all motorists. Mayor Cr Tom Crook said there are a variety of parking options in the central business districts of our towns. “It really benefits East Gippsland’s economy when we can keep money earned here circulating in our region. Shopping locally plays an important part in that, which is why Council is asking people to be mindful of parking time limits — it gives more people a chance to visit our great local businesses,” Cr Crook said. Typically, shorter stay zones are located in the heart of our retail precincts, whereas longer stay parking can be found on the edges of the shopping precincts. You'll find ample parking within walking distance of most town centres,” Cr Crook said. As well as time limits, motorists need to be mindful of the type of bay they are parking in. Parking in loading zones is the most common infringement around this time of year. Loading zones are marked with a red sign and are for commercial operators only; they cannot be used by the general public even if people are collecting goods. Accessible parking bays are reserved for people with a blue accessible parking permit, and the permit holder needs to be in the vehicle at the time of use. Some tips to consider during this busy season: • Be ready to take a short stroll to your destination, if you’re able. • Always check and follow any time restrictions posted in car parks. • Exercise caution to avoid parking in bus zones, loading zones, no-stopping areas and spaces reserved for those with an Accessible Parking Permit. Visit Council’s website, eastgippsland.vic. gov.au, for more information on parking and road safety.

Darren Chester Darren Chester Darren Che Putting Locals First Putting Locals Chester First Darren Putting Locals First #lovegippsland

Putting Locals First #lovegippsland www.darrenchester.com.au #lovegippsland #lovegippsland www.darrenchester.com.au

Authorised by Darren Chester, The National Party of Australia, Level 13, 30 Collins Street, Melbourne.

www.darrenchester.com.au

Authorised by Darren Chester, The National Party of Australia, Level 13, 30 Collins Street, Melbourne.

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The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

the pit is a hit

Mouth-watering BBQ hits Lakes

MERICAN BBQ lovers are salivating in delight after the official opening of The Pit, located at The Servo Lakes Entrance. Owned by Eddie Vu and Bec Belshaw (who also own Nick’s Thai and Mama Vu’s in Lakes Entrance), The Pit’s finger-licking debut was met with mouth-watering accolades from patrons who shared comments online such as: "rippa tucker. Got a new favourite food place in town I think"; "my brisket burger was delicious"; "what a great feed"; "the food was fantastic"; and “can highly recommend.” Belinda Blundell was one of the hundreds of satisfied customers from opening night. Of her BBQ Rib Box

she said, “It was melt-in-yourmouth delicious, and I loved the seasoned fries. It’s really made for a good night out with friends on a balmy summer’s evening.” Bronwyn Cahill said, “It was really difficult to choose what to have because of the great selection. I settled on the pulled pork and was not disappointed. I’m very keen to go back to try more from the menu.” The BBQ smokers are lit at around 5am each morning and the smoking is done by qualified chef Corie Wiesman who says, “Our 12-hour smoked brisket is not like any steak you’d get from a pub. It’s kept at exactly 62°C before being served (because any

hotter and the meat will dry out and ruin that melt-in-yourmouth texture)!” Prep and service is executed by the crew from Nick’s, who are currently displaced due to the renovations that are nearing completion, at their new premises (next door to The Servo in the former

Chinese restaurant building). The Pit at The Servo is open from Wednesday night through to Sunday lunch, with takeaway available. Crowd pleasers on the menu include fried chicken, ribs, brisket, pulled pork, loaded fries, kransky sausages, burgers, and mac and cheese.

Metung Primary to welcome Koho floating sauna largest prep intake in 10 years East Gippsland a wellbeing destination M E LITE athletes have long touted the benefits of cold water therapy for sports recovery. Now, the mainstream has cottoned on to the positive impacts it can have on everyone’s overall health and wellbeing. One new business that aims to transform this trend into a lifestyle for many, is the brandnew hot/cold therapy floating sauna in Lakes Entrance called Koho, which means ‘float’ in Finland, where the sauna culture originates from. Located — literally — on the tranquil Gippsland Lakes, Koho Sauna offers an immersive, nature enriched, wellbeing experience that is open to the public from 6am to 7pm every day after it’s official opening on 17 December. “At Koho, we specialise in contrast therapy, allowing guests to alternate between hot and cold immersion. Our facilities include a modern, spacious wood-fired sauna, complete with cold shower and lake access for the more adventurous!” explains Koho owner, Tom Stubbs. The benefit of hot/cold therapy are extensive. “Alternating between a wood-fired sauna and an invigorating cold plunge boosts endorphin levels, which enhances circulation, lung capacity, skin health, immune response, and metabolic rate — just to name a few key benefits,” Tom adds. “Beyond these physical improvements, the sauna and cold plunge method also assists in recovery following strenuous workouts, it contributes to hypertension management, aids in reducing body-wide inflammation, and promotes profound relaxation.” The result of all of this is an improved mood, boosted

energy, sharpened alertness, and a revitalised sense of wellbeing. It’s no wonder those seeking optimum health are lining up to enjoy these comprehensive health and wellness effects of hot/cold therapy! Tom says the idea for the business arose after a trip to Derby in Tasmania that he took with his wife, Brodie (who is also heavily involved with the business). “We’d spent the day mountain biking and booked in for a session at the Derby sauna to relax. We found it helped with our recovery and we left the session feeling amazing. We thought, given the natural lake system here in East Gippsland, and the combination of regular tourist numbers and a great local community, it would be an excellent addition to the area.” “We are the first business of our kind in mainland Australia,” says Koho owner, Tom Stubbs. “We occupy the north quarter of what previously was the legendary Floating Dragon restaurant. The first gangway to the right and overlooking the Entrance and Western Harbour in Lakes Entrance. The south end of the vessel is occupied by a separate accommodation and events space called Idle Lakehouse, which will open

in early 2024 (stay tuned for more on this in a future issue).” “We looked at several locations on the Gippsland Lakes, but there were a lot of hoops to jump through to create an original site. When we heard about this iconic vessel becoming available, we consulted with Gippsland Ports and decided to take the plunge and make it work! Now, 12 months of hard work later, here we are — ready to open!” “Koho is very special because you can watch the sun set and the fishing boats come in, while your body recovers in our naturally heated wood-fired sauna, before slipping into the beautiful saltwater from our custom-built deck,” says Tom. “We are hoping our business will be a positive impact on locals and the region. With the opening of the Metung Hot Springs and now us, we hope East Gippsland becomes a wellbeing destination with multiple options for visitors and locals. The benefits of contrast therapy are farreaching and we hope to connect with a wide range of community groups including sporting clubs and the NDIS for example, to improve people's health and wellbeing.

ETUNG Primary School is looking forward to welcoming its new preps for 2024. “With nine new preps starting at Metung next year, this is the biggest Foundation cohort in about 10 years,” says Jim Allen, principal of the 40+ student school, which prides itself on its ability to deliver personalised learning. “We held three transition days during Term 4, which were a great success. Each new prep student was paired up with a Year 5 or 6 ‘buddy’ and they then participated in cooking, art and reading activities together, as a way to show the kinder kids what school will be like next year.” Jacinta Bennett has an impeccable reputation as a junior school teacher, and says she is looking forward to

teaching this lively, friendly and caring group. Equally impressive has been the seamless integration of Jim Allen into the Metung and school community, since his official appointment last term, as Substantive Principal. “We now have a very happy and positive school, with a great team of educators, who are all passionate and committed to helping these young people reach their potential — regardless of whether they’re academic,

art or sports inclined. It’s wonderful to be able to nurture the talents of these emerging school leaders and to see them shine in their own individual ways.” “The Principal role in a small school come with a unique set of challenges but this is a great school! I am keen to see where this journey leads,” says Jim. “Now that I have been appointed, I’m really enjoying being able to plan for the school’s long-term future. Exciting times ahead!”

wanted to head to Brisbane for the warmer climate but Ted won that argument and on 24 April 1985 the Maxwells moved/retired to Metung. Ever since, Mary has established an unwavering reputation for going the extra mile to support those who need it. “She’ll darn your clothes, she’ll paint your house, she’ll walk your

dog, she once even offered to drive my brother to Queensland!” says Mary’s former neighbour in Metung, Analee Gale. Mary will be sorely missed by many locals, although she’s coming all the way back to Metung from Western Australia next year, just to house-sit for her friends — because that’s the sort of thing selfless Mary does!

Mary's on the move

HE Metung community has farewelled a long-time resident in Mary Maxwell, who recently moved interstate to be closer to her family. Mary’s long-time husband, Ted Maxwell passed away on 22 July 2022. Mary and Ted had been unwavering pillars in the Metung community, particularly within the RSL, having both been retired at RAAF. “We got posted to Melbourne on 29 February 1980, and hired a yacht in Metung on the June long weekend in that same year,” explains Mary. The idyllic weather conditions that weekend Ted, to declare that Metung was where he wanted to retire! Mary

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The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

opinion

Time for climate exit

Power failure could just be the beginning Viv Forbes The Salt Bush Club

HE world’s rich and famous, plus an army of publicists, hangers-on and mendicants, are attending the COP28 meeting in Dubai, the ostentatious 7-star playground capital of United Arab Emirates where even the police drive luxury sports cars. We peasant classes sitting at home note that climate royalty, including King Charles from UK, John Kerry from USA and Blackouts Bowen from Australia, are all flying there burning vast amounts of carbon fuels. Fittingly, these hypocrites chose to meet in the richest and most wasteful artificial city in the world wallowing in wealth derived from oil, gas and air-travel tourists. UAE has already been accused of using the meeting to organise oil and gas sales ‘on the sidelines’, so for them it will be doubly profitable. We wonder how John Kerry will explain how the green new deal is falling apart in USA. The sinister hidden agenda of COP28 in Dubai is about rationing and depopulation — they want to ration energy, reduce meat production and eliminate wasteful driving

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, Opposition Leader John Pesutto and Gippsland East MP Tim Bull at the timber industry forum in Heyfield.

and “useless eaters”. They want us locked into 15 minute cities with our movements tracked and restricted to walking, bicycles and small communal electric cars. They plan to abolish the freedom of cash so they can track our consumption. They want to see us restricted to green smoothies, oat-milk coffee, minced crickets and fake meat burgers while they jet off to a new well-fed tourist destination every year. We have copped these annual climate-fests for 26 years now. The last one catered for about 40,000 delegates and hangers-on for 2 weeks of talk-fest that achieved NOTHING useful (as usual). Even Saint Greta Thunberg said that COP27 was a scam. Let’s have a few Clexit (Climate Exit) Referenda so we can Vote NO and repudiate all liabilities under the Kyoto and Paris Climate Agreements. Only stupid western politicians from places like

UK, USA and Australia think they can force-feed windsolar energy sufficiently to keep the lights on as coal and gas plants close. Naturally Greens are also opposed to building dams for hydro energy and they do not like nuclear. The Net Zero Prize for reaching fanciful Net Zero Emissions targets will be precarious populations with industry operating on the whims of the weather and an angry, urbanised, lockeddown population faced with food, fuel and electricity rationing. There is no global warming crisis. And politicians cannot control the climate. However King What’sis-name, John Kerry (the US Presidential Envoy for Controlling Climate) and Blackouts Bowen (Australia’s Minister for Climate Panics and Zero Energy) are determined to create an electricity crisis. Power grid failure will be followed quickly by failure of food and water supplies to cities.

‘Lock it up and leave it’ puts lives at risk

HE Labor Party’s policy to ‘lock it up and leave it’ puts regional communities at risk from unmanaged forestry areas, according to the Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester. After attending a forestry forum in Heyfield, Mr Chester said he was more concerned than ever about the future of timber communities across Gippsland. “The illogical decision to shutdown the native hardwood timber industry with just six months notice is a threat to lives and livelihoods in the impacted areas,” Mr Chester said. “Lock it up and leave it, is not a forestry policy, it’s a recipe for disaster. “We need active forest management for all users including a sustainable native hardwood timber

industry, ecotourism, 4WD, prospecting and camping. “Our communities deserve better than this policy which has been driven by political science, and has nothing to do with environmental science. “We should be managing our forests using the skills of timber industry workers and local firefighters with more fuel reduction burns, clearing along roadside and around towns, and selective harvesting of native hardwood timber for highvalue uses.” Mr Chester said the reckless decision by the Labor Government would have flow-on impacts to the economies of local towns and there was no plan to help the community transition process. “I’m totally opposed to the decision to shutdown the native hardwood timber

industry because it’s a plan that will endanger lives during bushfires, damage the economy, achieve nothing for the environment, and undermine the social and cultural life of Gippsland,” Mr Chester said. “Ramming this ban through the community without enough time to restructure and find new employment opportunities is a disgrace. “Refusing to properly fund the transition plan with enough money for workers, businesses and communities is adding to the distress. “There are national supply chain and housing affordability issues entrenched in Victoria’s decision and the Prime Minister should be directly engaged in helping to prevent a social, economic and environmental disaster.”

PHONE: 0407 985 769

DECEMBER 15, 2023 The Great Eastern Mail

GEM movie review

A WORLD OF PURE IMAGINATION

GEM Kids

SPACE

THE GEM CHRISTMAS QUIZ

WONKA

NOW SHOWING IN CINEMAS

ONKA, the 2023 prequel to the beloved "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" tale, takes us back to the whimsical world of Willy Wonka, this time exploring his early days as an aspiring chocolatier. Starring Timothée Chalamet as a charmingly eccentric Wonka, the film is a delightful concoction of vibrant visuals, infectious music, and a heartwarming story about the power of passion and friendship. Visually stunning: The film is a feast for the eyes. From the intricate sets and costumes reminiscent of Tim Burton's aesthetic to the fantastical landscapes within Wonka's chocolate factory, every frame is a meticulously crafted treat. The factory itself is a playground of imagination, filled with chocolate rivers, singing Oompa Loompas, and sweets that come to life. The film's visual imagination is truly captivating and transports viewers into Wonka's whimsical world. Musical magic:

The music plays a crucial role in creating the film's enchanting atmosphere. Original songs, infused with a whimsical yet modern feel, seamlessly blend with classic tunes from the original "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" film. Chalamet's singing voice is a pleasant surprise, adding another layer of charm to his portrayal of Wonka. The music is sure to leave viewers humming long after the credits roll. Heartwarming story: While the film is undeniably visually and musically spectacular, it doesn't neglect the heart of the story. We see Wonka's journey as a young man, fuelled by a dream and facing challenges along the way. We witness the development of his unique

personality and his unwavering belief in the power of chocolate. The film also explores the importance of friendship and the impact it can have on shaping who we become. Chalamet's captivating performance: Timothée Chalamet delivers a captivating performance as the young Willy Wonka. He captures the character's eccentric charm, boundless energy, and vulnerability with remarkable nuance. Chalamet brings a fresh perspective to the iconic role, making Wonka both relatable and intriguing. Not without its flaws: While Wonka is a mostly delightful experience, it's not without its flaws. The film's pacing can feel uneven at times, with some scenes

dragging while others feel rushed. Additionally, the story may lack the depth and complexity of the original "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." Verdict: Despite its minor shortcomings, Wonka is a charming and visually stunning film that will delight fans of the original and newcomers alike. Chalamet's captivating performance, the film's enchanting visuals, and the catchy music come together to create a sweet and heartwarming journey. While it may not reach the heights of the original, Wonka is a worthy addition to the chocolate factory universe and a delightful treat for the whole family. RATING

HORROR GAME MOVIE LACKS STORY

Movie Reviewer Jason Cherry

FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY'S

STREAMING ON PRIME

IVE Nights at Freddy's, the 2023 film adaptation of the popular video game series, has finally arrived, bringing the animatronic horrors to the silver screen. While the movie undeniably captures the creepy atmosphere and jump scares of the game, it lacks the depth and narrative cohesion to truly satisfy a wider audience. Visually chilling: The film's greatest strength lies in its visuals. The animatronic characters, Freddy Fazbear and his bandmates, are brought to life with impressive detail and movement, creating a

genuinely unsettling presence on screen. The film effectively recreates the dark and claustrophobic atmosphere of the game, making every corner seem like it could be hiding a potential threat. Jump scares galore: As expected, the film is packed with jump scares. These are executed with precision and timing, making them genuinely effective at eliciting screams from the audience. However, the reliance on jump scares as the primary source of horror can feel repetitive after a while, leaving viewers wanting more depth and psychological terror. Narrative lacking: The film's biggest weakness lies in its narrative. The story feels rushed and

underdeveloped, failing to provide enough character development or explanation for the events unfolding. This lack of depth makes it difficult to connect with the characters or truly care about their fate. Additionally, the film deviates significantly from the game's lore, which may alienate some dedicated fans. Performance inconsistencies: The film's acting is inconsistent, with some performances being genuinely convincing and others falling flat. Matthew Lillard, who voices Freddy Fazbear, delivers a particularly chilling performance, perfectly capturing the character's unsettling presence. However, other actors struggle to deliver their lines with the same level of believability. A treat for fans, but not for

everyone: Ultimately, Five Nights at Freddy's is a film that will primarily satisfy fans of the video game. The familiar characters, creepy atmosphere, and jump scares will provide them with a thrilling and nostalgic experience. However, for viewers unfamiliar with the game, the film's narrative shortcomings and reliance on jump scares may leave them feeling unengaged and disappointed. Recommended for fans of the video game who enjoy jump scares and creepy atmosphere. Not recommended for viewers seeking a well-developed story or a deeper exploration of the game's lore. RATING

QUIZ ANSWERS

1. (A) GERMANY. 2. (D) ALL OF THE ABOVE. 3. (D) ALL OF THE ABOVE. 4. (A) MISTLETOE. 5. (B) THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS. 6. (A) CASPAR, MELCHIOR, AND BALTHAZAR. 7. (A) EGGNOG. 8. (A) STOLLEN 9. (A) JINGLE BELLS. 10. (C) SILENT NIGHT.

Movie Reviewer Jason Cherry

1. WHICH COUNTRY STARTED THE TRADITION OF DECORATING CHRISTMAS TREES? (A) GERMANY (B) FRANCE (C) ENGLAND (D) UNITED STATES 2. WHAT IS THE TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS DINNER IN ENGLAND? (A) ROAST TURKEY WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS (B) CHRISTMAS PUDDING (C) MINCE PIES (D) ALL OF THE ABOVE 3. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE GHOST WHO VISITS EBENEZER SCROOGE IN "A CHRISTMAS CAROL"? (A) THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST (B) THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT (C) THE GHOST OF CHRISTMAS YET TO COME (D) ALL OF THE ABOVE 4. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE PLANT THAT IS TRADITIONALLY HUNG UPSIDE DOWN AT CHRISTMAS? (A) MISTLETOE (B) HOLLY (C) IVY (D) POINSETTIA 5. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE SONG THAT IS SUNG ON THE 12TH DAY OF CHRISTMAS? (A) JINGLE BELLS (B) THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS (C) SILENT NIGHT (D) HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING 6. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE THREE WISE MEN WHO FOLLOWED THE STAR TO BETHLEHEM? (A) CASPAR, MELCHIOR, & BALTHAZAR (B) SIMON, PETER, AND ANDREW (C) MATTHEW, MARK, LUKE, & JOHN (D) JOSEPH, MARY, AND JESUS 7. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE CHRISTMAS BEVERAGE MADE WITH MILK, EGGS, SUGAR, AND NUTMEG? (A) EGGNOG (B) HOT CHOCOLATE (C) MULLED WINE (D) APPLE CIDER 8. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS CAKE IN GERMANY? (A) STOLLEN (B) LEBKUCHEN (C) BAUMKUCHEN (D) MARZIPAN 9. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE CHRISTMAS CAROL THAT BEGINS WITH THE WORDS "DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW"? (A) JINGLE BELLS (B) RUDOLPH THE REDNOSED REINDEER (C) DECK THE HALLS (D) HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING 10. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE CHRISTMAS CAROL THAT BEGINS WITH THE WORDS "SILENT NIGHT, HOLY NIGHT"? (A) JINGLE BELLS (B) RUDOLPH THE REDNOSED REINDEER (C) SILENT NIGHT (D) HARK! THE HERALD

The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

GEM Kids

E C A P S

www.facebook.com/TheGreatEasternMail

JOKES 1. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU EAT CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS? YOU GET TINSEL-ITIS! 2. WHAT DO YOU CALL AN ELF WHO SINGS AND DANCES? ELFIS! 3. WHY IS IT GETTING HARDER TO BUY ADVENT CALENDARS? THEIR DAYS ARE NUMBERED! 4. WHAT DO YOU CALL A GROUP OF SHEEP SINGING CHRISTMAS CAROLS? FLEECE NAVIDAD! 5. WHAT DO YOU CALL SANTA'S HELPERS WHEN THEY BREAK THE LAW? ELFIN' CRIMINALS!

6. WHAT DO YOU CALL A REINDEER WITH NO EYES? NO EYE DEER! 7. WHY WAS THE LITTLE BOY SO COLD ON CHRISTMAS MORNING? BECAUSE IT WAS DECEMBRRRRR! 8. WHAT DO YOU CALL AN ELF WHO CAN'T SING OR DANCE? UNEMPLOYED! 9. WHY DID SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER GET FIRED? HE WAS CLAUS-TROPHOBIC. 10. WHAT DO YOU CALL A REINDEER WITH A BAD ATTITUDE? RUDE-OLPH!

THIS 3-WEEK-PERIOD IN AUSSIE HISTORY December 15th: 1934: The first McDonald's restaurant opens in Australia, in Sydney's Yagoona. December 16th: 1788: The First Fleet arrives at Sydney Cove, marking the beginning of European colonization in Australia. December 17th: 1880: The first telephone exchange in Australia opens in Melbourne. December 18th: 1834: John Batman arrives at Port Phillip Bay and establishes a settlement, laying the groundwork for the city of Melbourne. December 19th: 1885: The University of Melbourne is officially inaugurated. December 20th: 1821: The first newspaper in W.A., the Western Australian Gazette, is published. December 21st: 1957: The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) begins television broadcasts. December 22nd: 1835: The Melbourne Club, the oldest gentlemen's club in Australia, is founded. December 23rd: 1854: The Eureka Stockade rebellion takes place at Ballarat, Victoria, in protest against goldfields licensing fees. December 24th: 1865: The Christmas Day Truce occurs during World War I, with soldiers from opposing sides laying down their arms and playing football. December 25th: 1888: The first Christmas carols by candlelight are held in Melbourne. December 26th: 2004: The Boxing Day Tsunami causes widespread devastation in Southeast Asia, including parts of Australia. December 27th: 1947: The first Holden car, the 48-215, rolls off the production line in Adelaide. December 28th: 1837: The first issue of the Melbourne Argus newspaper is published. December 29th: 1901: The Duke of Cornwall and York opens the first Commonwealth Parliament in Melbourne. December 30th: 1972: Cyclone Tracy devastates the city of Darwin, killing 71 people and causing widespread damage. December 31st: 1850: The colony of Victoria separates from New South Wales. January 1st: 2000: The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is introduced in Australia. January 2nd: 1991: John Howard becomes Prime Minister of Australia, leading the Liberal Party to its first election victory in 13 years. January 3rd: 1915: The Gallipoli campaign ends with the evacuation of Allied troops from Turkey. January 4th: 2011: Cyclone Yasi makes landfall in North Queensland, causing widespread damage and flooding.

puzzle answers SOLUTIONS: FROM PAGE 13

SUDOKU: 3092

GEM KIDS GA M E R EVIEWS

SUPERSTARS

SUPER SMASH BROS ULTIMATE

[PLAYED ON NINTENDO SWITCH] WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THE GAME? I LIKE THAT THERE ARE SO MANY OF MY FAVOURITE CHARACTERS IN ONE GAME. WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE CHARACTER AND WHY? PAC MAN – HE IS THE BEST.

C HAR LI AGED 12

WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THIS GAME? YES. WHAT RATING WOULD YOU GIVE IT OUT OF 10? I WOULD GIVE IT AN 8 OUT OF 10.

SONIC FRONTIERS

[PLAYED ON XBOX SERIES X] WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THE GAME? I LIKE ARCADE TYPE GAMES. WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE CHARACTER AND WHY? SONIC BECAUSE OF HIS SPEED. WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THIS GAME?

JOR DAN AGED 15

YES. WHAT RATING WOULD YOU GIVE IT OUT OF 10? I WOULD GIVE IT A 7 OUT OF 10.

POKÉMON SCARLETT

[PLAYED ON NINTENDO SWITCH] WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THE GAME? THAT I GET TO FIND POKÉMON. WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE CHARACTER AND WHY? QUAXLY IS THE BEST TO PARTNER WITH.

BLAKE AGE 10

WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THIS GAME? YES, I LIKE ALL THE POKÉMON GAMES. WHAT RATING WOULD YOU GIVE IT OUT OF 10? I WOULD GIVE IT 8 OUT OF 10.

OPEN 7 DAYS from now until Xmas Eve

3093

All Christmas Layby’s to be collected prior to Christmas Eve Puzzles supplied by Lovatts Publications Pty Ltd www.puzzlexperts.com

172 Main St, Bairnsdale VIC 3875 Phone: (03) 5152 3369 | www.toyworld.com.au/pages/toyworld-bairnsdale

DECEMBER 15, 2023 The Great Eastern Mail

boating and fishing

S LIE FOL MP RA AT BO East Gippsland Fishing Report Lakes Entrance With the recent rains, the water colour is still a bit murky right throughout the lake system. Try under the highway bridge along the Rock Wall and up to Kalimna Jetty for a mixed bag. Bullock Island on the incoming tide and surf beaches for tailor and salmon. Offshore at Six Mile Reef for snapper, gummies closer to the beach. Lake Tyers Good sized bream are in the main lake and around the channel makers. Flathead up to 90 cm are around the banks and main car park. Caution - There is a whale carcass around the Lake Bunga, Lake Tyers Beach area, sharks may be present. Mitchell River Try the back water, highway bridge, Old Butter Factory, down to Shadoof Lodge, The Cut and the river mouth for bream, using prawn, cut crab, soft shell and soft plastics. Tambo River The Blue Hole, Burns Flat, Punthouse Point, around the river mouth, The Snags, and Salt Creek for bream on prawn and pipis. Nicholson For bream and the odd flathead give between the Two Bridges a go, as well as the Swimming Hole and

Keeping cool in a crises By Emma Young

the river mouth with drifting prawn, soft shell, shrimp and soft plastics. Metung Town jetties, Boxes Creek, Chinamans Creek and Shaving Point using soft shell, prawn and worm. Paynesville Best spots for bream are under the town jetties and the river mouth with cut crab, soft shell, prawn and soft plastics. Holland's Landing There has been some whiting on the move in the system. Give the Strait a look for bream and the odd flathead, preferred baits

being white bait, prawn, pilchards and plastics. Surf beaches have salmon and tailor. Marlo Bream are around the second island, Frenchs Narrows and the town jetties. Surf beaches for tailor and salmon, offshore has flathead and gummy. Bemm River The lake and channel for bream and flathead, best results on soft plastics and prawn, surf beach for salmon chasing metal lures. Tamboon Inlet Try the river for bream, with cut crab and prawn, around

the Football Ground for bream and flathead. Surf beach for salmon biting on pilchards and blue bait. Mallacoota The Top Lake, Genoa River and Harrisons Channel for bream and flathead. Under the town jetties are bream and trevally, offshore has a mixed bag. Surf beaches for salmon and tailor. Omeo High Country River levels have dropped and there is good fishing to be had in all the rivers, using the fly-fishing dropper method with a caddisfly, small lures, soft plastics, spinners and nymphs.

Lindenow and Paynesville score sporting facility upgrades

PORTING facilities in Paynesville and Lindenow have recently received significant upgrades to improve community usability. To mark the completion of the cricket net upgrades at AJ Freeman Reserve, Paynesville and lighting upgrades at Lindenow Recreation Reserve, East Gippsland Shire Council officially opened both projects on Thursday, December 7. Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh joined Mayor Cr Tom Crook and members of the sporting communities to open the facilities. The completion of the $158,094 Paynesville cricket net upgrade reflects Council's dedication to providing top-notch facilities for the community. At AJ Freeman Reserve, the weathered and rundown cricket net infrastructure was removed, and better netting was incorporated into the new design. Cricketers now have training nets with three pitches, an artificial turf runup area for the bowlers, and soft netting which prevents balls from ricocheting off metal poles. The addition of roof netting prevents balls from being hit out of the

From left: Paynesville Cricket Club president Kody McCormick and club players helped cut the ribbon with Tom McIntosh Member for Eastern Victoria, Tim Bull Member for Gippsland East, Mayor Cr Tom Crook and East Gippsland Shire Council CEO Anthony Basford.

practice facility. The Paynesville cricket net upgrade was funded by a $70,000 contribution from Sport and Recreation Victoria, a $20,000 donation from Paynesville Cricket Club, $10,000 from Cricket Victoria; the remainder was funded by Council. The Paynesville cricket nets were one of six cricket net upgrade projects across the shire as part of the Local Community Sport and Recreation Project. Mayor Cr Tom Crook said it was great to see so many people at the celebrations.

“There was a fantastic atmosphere on the night, and it was clear just how happy the committees of management and sporting clubs are with their new facilities,” Cr Crook said. Aging and non-standard infrastructure was identified at the Lindenow sporting oval and was replaced with four new light towers with energyefficient LED lights, reducing energy costs in the future. Cr Crook said the reserve now has more flexibility in its scheduling for users of the oval. “Completing these lighting

upgrades aligns with the broader strategy to enhance participation rates and adapt to the changing landscape of football in the Lindenow District. As well as the lighting upgrade, the reserve’s cricket net training facility was also upgraded,” Cr Crook said. Combined, these upgrades total $268,144. Council received $191,775 funding from Sport and Recreation Victoria and a $10,000 contribution from the Lindenow Football and Netball Club. The remainder was funded by Council.

EGEND has it, that sailors, having mastered the high seas, also master a particular level of colourful language. I discovered this as an 8-year-old girl, crewing for my elder brother on a small skiff. Our parents must have had their reasons, but thought nothing of sending us out on a wintery Sunday morning in Port Phillip Bay, with jelly fish bigger than our heads thumping into the boat, and gale force winds swirling about us. That day, not only did I learn to hang out on trapeze for the first time, without a harness (nor a wetsuit in those days), but I also learnt some salty new words. My brother had skipped the mastering of the seas, and gone straight to mastering some pretty sailorspeak. Given some of those words were directed at me, I had no choice but to mutiny, once ashore, and never sail with him again. Such sea-dog language can frequently be heard at a boat ramp, often from those that have mastered nothing. Tensions run high, and it could serve an enterprising Divorce lawyer well, to erect a sign nearby. Having spent one summer in a house next to a boat ramp, I was well versed in the special dance between couples, as they at times heatedly debated the best method of boat launching. One good lady struggling with reversing was the unreasonable target of much vitriol from her husband, whilst he sat like a king in his boat atop the trailer. She exacted her revenge. Once the boat was launched, she told her husband that he should enjoy his boating time, as she and the trailer were going back to Melbourne. Good luck to him she shouted, or words to that effect. Applause broke out amongst those watching. When my husband N, decided to invest (wisely, obviously) in a speedboat, I agreed on the basis it would not add more onerous duties into an already busy life, wrangling 4 small children and work. I became a boating Princess. Some 20 years on, with the children grown and sometimes gone, I decided I would surprise N on our wedding anniversary. Instead of jumping out of the driver’s seat in the car at the ramp, so he could back the trailer in, I saw him approach on the water, and I backed the trailer in to meet him. It was the anniversary gift that just keeps on giving. N of course was delighted, and suitably effusive about my secretly acquired skills. Wise man. Over this holiday period, our normally sleepy little east Gippsland boat ramp was experiencing a high traffic. N wanted to take his ski boat out,

clean it and return. I needed it all done quickly, as I had a girls’ lunch to go to. As I approached the ramp, N was lurking in the boat just offshore. The ramp was chaotic; people fishing, children, dogs, pelicans, boats, and spectators. So many spectators. Taking up one and a half lanes on the ramp was a carat a rakish angle, with a large yacht jack-knifed behind. A small crowd was trying to lever the boat off the trailer. Backing in to deeper water clearly was not going to be an option. The number of people ‘helping’ and offering advice as we know, bears no correlation to the success of the operation. Being impatient, and with a small trailer behind, I calculated I could just squeeze down beside it. Now or never, heart in my mouth, I pulled out and lined myself up. This could go one of two ways. I did note the look of surprise on N’s face in the rear-view mirror. Suffice to say, all went well, and the task was completed in one smooth-ish move, including backing around the open doors, and the acute angles of their vehicle. I got out to direct N in, against a significant cross current. As N and I did our quiet dance of familiar hand signals, ‘Jack-Knife Man’ decided to take over with the directions — from side-on, where he couldn’t see the rollers. Was I invisible, not qualified? An hour or so later, with a clean boat we did the reverse trip. Again, we were met with scenes of disorganised chaos at the ramp, with only one lane in use. A shiny German car with a shiny trailer appeared before us in queue, but there was nobody in the driver’s seat, and no sign of shiny boat hovering offshore. After waiting a while, with N sitting in the boat behind me, I inched out, thinking I would sneak in. Mr Shiny appeared and told me he was next. I pointed out there was a lane free on the ramp, and would he like to use it? Grumpily, he responded that maybe not, but could I be quick? ‘Of course’ I replied. Uh-oh. Again, with crowds watching. Fortunately, never have I reversed so straight and true as I did then. Maybe it was the steam coming out of my ears that kept me straight, or some rude sailor words uttered under my breath. With the boat duly launched, an elderly gent parked in his car, in optimal viewing position next to the ramp, tooted at me. He raised his Thermos and clapped his hands for me. I curtsied. Mr Shiny looked through my window and said ‘You need to be careful there love, the ramp is pretty slippery’. Had I not had an old ‘sea chooks’ lunch to get to, I might have hung around and offered him some tips.

The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

MP calls for brumby culling halt G IPPSLAND East Nationals MP, Tim Bull, has used the final sitting week of Parliament to again request an end to the shooting of brumbies in the High Country. Mr Bull said the culling by contracted shooters, which is going on across the border in NSW as well, is not producing good outcomes. “I have heard from very reliable sources of foals being found starving after their mothers have been shot, and another of a horse dragging its

paralysed hind quarters behind that had to be put out of its misery. “While this could be the result of recreational and illegal shooters, my point is the millions we are spending on trying to eradicate brumbies could be much better spent at the present time, including on getting rid of illegal shooters. Not to mention our shocking roads, health crisis, mental health crisis, transition funds for timber workers, pest plant control or our failing education system to support our local schools better.

“I am not at all comfortable the government has considered the brumbies are a tourist attraction. Many come to East Gippsland to photograph and paint them and we have sightseeing tour businesses. “They take away our timber industry, can’t rebuild basic fire infrastructure four years later and then waste money on this, which the majority of locals do not support. “There is no doubt brumby controls are required and I have not yet met a person who does not

agree with that, but eradication is in my view a step too far and we have a large number of people who are putting their hands up to reduce numbers by other methods. “What I would like to see is the government genuinely sit down and conduct a serious forum with these interested parties, something that has not yet happened. “We have another Budget being prepared now that will be released in early May. What we need is the budget to eradicate brumbies

Brumby family in the trees. Picture: Felicity Clay

removed and have the funds allocated to a higher area of need. “Then some serious discussions with the groups that are happy to assist in alternate control measures should follow,” said Mr Bull.

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DECEMBER 15, 2023 The Great Eastern Mail

boating and fishing

Metung Yacht Club sailing for the community

ETUNG Yacht Club’s Learn To Sail programs are a learning pathway to gain the skills for recreational and professional sailing. MYC owns a large number of dinghy classes to enable skills development. The junior sailing program relies on parents to volunteer their time to help children and youth develop their skills. Junior sailing lessons are held on Sunday morning during the sailing season. Some children want to learn to sail for independence and to safely participate in family activities on the water. Some of the children last year extended themselves by entering in and contesting significant regattas. This included the 420s Australian championship, held at Metung, and the International Cadet Class National Championship and World Championship, held on Hobsons Bay. An adult Learn To Sail program was held this year before the sailing season commenced, and an average of 13 men and women participated in the weekly lessons. Their skills ranged from

Women have been learning to sail keelboats at Metung Yacht Club, on Bancroft Bay. Picture: Sarah McCully

Above left: Women have been learning to sail dinghies at Metung Yacht Club, on Bancroft Bay. Above right: Metung Yacht Club has a good reputation for teaching children to sail in a safe and positive environment. Pictures: Jeanette Seversy

novice to experienced, and lessons included classroombased and sailing practice in yachts donated by MYC members. The adult Learn To Sail program has been complemented during the sailing season, by weekly lessons specifically for

women. This is the third year a women-focussed learnto-sail program has been offered by MYC, and lessons include classroom theory and sailing practice in dinghies and keel boats. Alongside these programs, is the all-abilities program,

for which Metung Yacht Club specifically purchased two Hansa 303 dinghies in early 2022. The Hansa class dinghy enables people to sail independently or with a support person. The Hansa class dinghy is also suitable for people

who want to sail but want the reassurance of being in a dinghy that will not capsize. A junior member of MYC, Noah Hack, is a regular sailor of the Hansa dinghy, along with his father, Michael. “Noah and I sail the Hansa together sitting side by side,” Michael said. “The Hansa class dinghy is designed so you can’t tip it, so it’s very safe. “It has a joystick control, and it’s made for optimising safety. “It can also be sailed single handed.” Purchasing the Hansa dinghies is part of MYC’s commitment to Sailability, a program at the club that offers support and provides

equipment to assist people of all abilities to get into sailing. A VicHealth grant paid for the purchase of both boats. “They are a good boat to have among the club’s assets, as a learn to sail type boat,” Michael said. This summer, MYC has contracted Smooth Sailing School, www. smoothsailingschool.com. au, to provide four days of lessons for children, youth and adults, using the club’s dinghies. Held between January 2-6, there will be classes specific to all ages and abilities. — Jeanette Severs

It's all Smooth Sailing

LEARN TO SAIL S At Metung Yacht Club

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MOOTH Sailing School evolved from the experiences of two childhood friends who bonded over their love for sailing, Tom Elder and Oscar Henderson. Growing up in rural Victoria, sailing wasn’t a big part of the traditional sports path for either of them, but they were and remained passionate about the sport. When Tom was about 12 years old, his father thought it would be a great fatherson bonding idea to get involved at the local yacht club, at Albury Wodonga. A small boat storage shed had been converted into a clubhouse that hugged the edge of Lake Hume, and was surrounded by a yard filled with boats of all shapes and sizes. With no learning program, Tom learnt to sail by ‘just having a go’. “The first time I went sailing I just got pushed out and had no idea what to do,” he said. Tom eventually got the hang of sailing, and also the bug for it, and eagerly waited for each weekend to get back out on the water. Tom’s memories are filled with he and his father camping by the clubhouse every weekend, to sail alongside and with five other families. They included Oscar Henderson and his family.

Oscar was an avid junior sailor, going to Melbourne to train in Optis and racing as a part of the Victorian team. The two boys became best friends.

Now adults and experienced sailors, Tom and Oscar moved to Melbourne to study at university and worked together as sailing instructors at the Victorian office of Australian Sailing, at ‘The Boatshed’. The Mobile Boatshed, an initiative by Australian Sailing to service regional yacht clubs and communities that lacked the resources to offer intensive learn-tosail programs, evolved into Smooth Sailing School.

"We would’ve benefited from this type of program ourselves,” Tom said. “When Australian Sailing ceased The Mobile Boatshed, we believed there was still a need for an accredited learn-to-sail experience. “Australian Sailing agreed, so Oscar and I set up Smooth Sailing School to give everyone the opportunity to learn to sail. “By providing our service, we expand the accessibility of sailing as a sport and boost the local yacht club's presence within the community.” This summer, Metung Yacht Club is testing the waters for a 20-hour learnto-sail program, and MYC’s General Committee has contracted Smooth Sailing School to deliver sessions for children, teenagers and adults on January 2-6, 2024. Smooth Sailing School will bring their fleet of 18 boats to Metung, to deliver programs tailored to children, teenagers and adults. “It’s going to be a great way to get yourself and your kids out of the house this summer holiday, learn a new skill, make new friends and challenge yourself,” Oscar said. To join the course at Metung, or explore more detail about the Smooth Sailing School course, visit www. smoothsailingschool.com.au For further details, phone or text Tom Elder, 0487 322 999.

The Great Eastern Mail DECEMBER 15, 2023

racing & sport

F L E S R U O Y E V HA E L T T I L ABASIL S A M T CB HRIS AIRNSDALE'S star galloper Flying Basil delivered the turkey with trimmings at the postponed Traralgon December meeting. It was a typical trademark performance by the little master, bouncing straight to the front and leading all the way. Brad Rawiller settled and rated him superbly in front, not allowing him to adopt his customary tearaway tactics. Brad had done his homework and watched videos of his previous wins so he had a fair understanding of Baz's racing style for his first ride on him. The experience of a 25 time Group 1 winning rider, only four short of 3000 winners made a huge difference and Brad became the first senior rider to win on Baz in his 10 wins. It was no easy task either to carry top-weight of 62 kilos on a S6 track. The $9 best tote price for Baz certainly topped up a few Christmas stockings. Trainer Jackson Pallot was full of praise for Baz's

courageous racing style as he had some Picture: Brett Holburt/ reservations with the big Racing Photos weight and soft track. He was also going into the race four weeks between runs and had lacked a solid gallop with our local track being very wet. Jackson is confident the horse can improve even further and will now target a city race over the holiday period. It has been a breakout year for the Pallot stable with some great highlights as well as will return a those of other winners with bigger, stronger horse for next local connections. year's event. The GEM racing wrap Number Two: With her for the year would rate the Bendigo Cup Day win in following performances in this a $75,000 benchmark 78, order. Fortunate Kiss was the top Number One: Surprisingly rated locally owned winner. not a winner. Promising young Given a superb ride by stayer, Highland Blaze with his champion rider, Damien second placing and $67,000 Oliver, Fortunate Kiss prizemoney in the Group delivered the great win that 2 St Ledger led the way. He she has always promised. went on to tackle the Jericho Number Three: Flying Basil Cup at Warrnambool, but with his four wins including the older, seasoned stayers the Sapphire Coast Cup had his measure this year. He and his city win at Sandown

WINner! flying basil

Picture: Ross Holburt/ Racing Photos

Flying Basil ridden by Brad Rawiller wins the Off The Track Handicap at Traralgon Racecourse on December 10, 2023. Picture: Ross Holburt/Racing Photos

Fortunate Kiss

and Miss Titeline. A special mention too must go to Stratford trainer, Reg Manning with his win with Cheeky Prince at Hinnomunjie. It was Reg's 28th win in the Cup where he has either ridden or trained the winner. Truly amazing. It was a great year for the locals and there are exciting times ahead in 2024 especially with the East Gippsland picnic circuit beginning at Canni Creek

highland blaze

rounds off the trifecta for our top three for 2023. Other locally owned horses that performed with honours during the year were city winners Boss Queen and Joltin' Joe and a long list of country and provincial winners including Social Conscience, Whipcracker Way, Bubble Palace, Romanova and the very promising Shooter McGavin

on February 10th and the Bairnsdale Cup on March 24th. Meanwhile the Bairnsdale Racing Club, together with our local track riders, have initiated an exciting summer event to raise some much needed funds to improve safety aspects of the training facilities. Don't miss the Summer Ball on Saturday, 6th of January at the race club. They have also organised a monster raffle with some magnificent prizes. Tickets and further details are available from the club.

THE GREAT EASTERN

BAIRNSDALE • PAYNESVILLE • LAKES ENTRANCE • METUNG • SALE

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