Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 11 January 2023

Captain’s knock

Chamber opened

By PHILIP HOPKINS

THE newly formed Latrobe City Chamber of Commerce (LCCC) is forging ahead to get new members, after filling most of its executive positions at its annual meeting before Christmas.

The chamber’s president, Peter Ceeney, said the annual meeting went smoothly “although we are yet to fill all positions”.

“We had around 35 guests attend our breakfast eventwithareally positive discussion on the business future of Latrobe City,” he said.

“Our one-and-a-half hour timeline didn’t allow enough time to go deep

into this discussion, but gaveusthe confidence to redo it again in the near future allocating more time.”

Mr Ceeney, who was elected president, said the only executive role yet to be filled was the role of secretary.

Other senior people elected were SophieMorell fromMySupport Australiaasvice president and Scott Lowater from McMillansAccounting as treasurer.

The committee consists of Marika Gaks -Morwell Bowling Club, Kate HainesLatrobe VeterinaryGroup, Christian Schill -Gippsprint, DanielBucktonViatek, Wayne Howe -retired business owner, Helen Spicer -Y.P.Counselling,

MattLenartowicz -SevenNetwork and Alex Aeschlimann -NBN Co.

Mr Ceeney said the chamber’snext jobwas to getmembership status up and running and attract members into the fold.

“We will begin to do this aboutmid January,” he said.

The new body aims to haveamembership covering all aspects of business in LatrobeCity, from retailtomanufacturing,transport/logistics and agriculture. Mr Ceeney is managing director of Morwell manufacturer PfG-Group.

The new chamber is designed to complement existing chambers of commerce andbusiness groups from Moe, Morwell

and Traralgon, not replace them.

“This is asinglebusinesschamber for Latrobe City that will push Latrobe City,” Mr Ceeney said.

“We want achamber, likeBallarat, Bendigoand Geelong,areally strong self-containable business chamberthat’s where we need to get to.”

The formation of the LCCC is several years in the making.

It replaces the previous Latrobe City Business Tourism Association, which was set up almostadecade agowith help from Latrobe City Council.

This was aprivately run group consisting of business owners and leadersbased around tourism.

Local export Nicole Faltum scored her maiden centuryfor Victoria last week.

O’Brien is fighting for local projects in 2023

THE startofanew year and anew parliamentary term represents an opportunity for the state governmenttoreset on key projects in Gippsland, accordingtoNationals MP, Danny O’Brien.

The Member for Gippsland South said there were anumberofprojects languishing for lack of state government support and he would continue to push the government to get behind them.

“I congratulate the Labor Governmentonits electionvictoryinNovember and acknowledge its mandate, but the Government must also recognise that the people of Gippsland South voted strongly for The Nationals, endorsing the projects we committed funding to had we been elected to government,” Mr O’Brien said.

“These include construction of anew Sale College on agreenfields site, fixing Leongatha’s dangerous and confusing “Kamikaze Corner”, anew stadium for Mirboo North and arebuilt Foster Primary School.

“We also committed to additional train services to Sale, fixingthe Loch Sport foreshore erosion, anew overtaking lane on the South Gippsland Highway at Toora, and funds for upgrades at KorumburraBena Football Netball Club and Waratah Beach Surf Lifesaving Club.

“These are important projects in their respective communities and they deserve support from the state government.”

Mr O’Brien saidhewould be lobbying the government for fundingfor these projects and many more, holding the Premier to his commitment to “govern for all Victorians”.

“If the Premier is to be true to his word, then Gippsland should miss out no longer,” he said.

“While city megaprojects have received billions under this government, its time for these important local projects to get their fair share.

“I will also be working with the Government to ensure it delivers on the few commitments made to the Gippsland South electorate, including a

revamp for Leongatha Secondary College and a new

“I am optimisticabout our futurehere in Gippsland, and Iwill fight hard to make sure our voice is heard in the halls of power.”

Labor returned to government in the state

LA Niña continues in the tropical Pacific, but is slowly weakening, according to the latest report from the Bureau of Meteorology.

However,while oceantemperatures have warmed in recent weeks, atmospheric indicators are largelyunchanged,remaining at La Niña levels. La Niña typically increases the chance of aboveaverage rainfallfor northern and eastern Australiaduring summer, says BoM.

“Long-range forecasts suggestthattropical Pacific Ocean temperatures will continue to warm towards ENSO-neutral levels over the coming weeks, with some change in atmosphericpatterns towardsneutral levels also possible. As long-range forecast accuracy is generally lower at this time of year, ENSO outlooksthat extend through autumn should be viewed with caution,” the bureau said.

ENSO (El Nino-Southern Oscillation) is aperiodic fluctuation in sea surface temperature (El Niño) and the air pressure of the overlying atmosphere (Southern Oscillation)across the equatorialPacific Ocean. El Nino usually means less rainfall.

“The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) is neutral and has littleinfluence on Australianclimatewhile

the monsoon trough is in thesouthernhemisphere (typically December to April).

“The Southern Annular Mode (SAM) is strongly positive andislikelytobepositive until at least mid-January. During summer, apositive SAM increases the chance of above average rainfall for easternNew South Wales,eastern Victoria and north-east Tasmania and below average rainfall for western Tasmania.”

The bureau said the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) had been in the Western Pacific since late December and was forecast to move into the Atlantic in the coming days.

“This may cause an easingintradewind strength and increase cloudiness near the dateline, potentially weakening some indicators of La Niña,” the bureau said.

“Sea surface temperatures remain warmer than average in the western Pacific,much of the Maritime Continent, and around northern Australia. Warmer Australian waters, especially in the tropics, can result in greater evaporation, humidity, cloudiness, and rainfall.”

electionlast November, winning 56 out of apossible 88 seats in the Legislative Assembly.

This bettered the result in 2018 state election, when the party won 55 seats.

The Liberal-Nationalcoalition has 27 lowerhouse seats.

Fatal collisionin Kilmany

POLICE are investigating the circumstances surroundinga fatal collision nearVelore Rd, Kilmany on Thursday morning

It is believed two vehiclescollided on the Princes Highway about 6.15am.

The driver of one of the cars, a25-year-old Sale man, was pronounced dead at the scene. The male driverofthe other vehicle was not injured, but was taken to hospital for observation.

The Princes Highway was closedboth directions for several hours due to the collision.

Anyone who witnessedthe collision, has dashcamfootage or any information is urged to phoneCrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000, or submit aconfidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Yarram fire station.

Going into bat: TheNationals Member forGippsland South, DannyO’Brien,sayshewillfight hard in Parliament to ensurekey local projects arenot forgottenbythe stategovernment. photograph supplied

RoadSafety Strategy continues

VICTORIA Policeisdeterminedto buildonaturnaround in road trauma towards the end of 2022, thathas helpeddeliver one of the lowestLives Lost figures on record.

There were 240 lives lost in 2022, six more than the previous year and slightly above the five-year-average of 237.

It represents the fourth-lowest lives lost figure since TAC records began morethan 30 years ago, but police stress any life lost is one too many.

December -previouslyVictoria’s deadliestmonth on the roadsrecordedfivefewer deathsthanin November.OnlyMay hadfewer fatalities during 2022.

The shift coincidedwith astatewide enforcement effortwhere more than 13,500 traffic offences were detected across 12 days, and a series of awareness initiatives with Victoria Police’s road safety partners was undertaken.

September was the worst month for fatalities, with 28 deaths.

Fatalities on metropolitan roads decreased to 105 compared with 114 the previous year,withthe five-year average also 105.

Lives lost on country roads, includingGeelong and the Surf Coast, rose to 135 from 120 in 2021. The figure

was also abovethe five-year average of 131.

Speeding, including driving too fast for the conditions,was the leading suspected cause of fatalities statewide. Failing to give way,illicit drugs, alcoholand mobilephoneswerealso commoncontributors, policecited About afifth of drivers and passengers killeddidn’thave their seatbelts on or weren’t wearing it properly,accountingfor 21 deaths, althoughthis was an improvement on theprevious year.

The worst areasinthe state for lives lostincluded the Goulburn Valley police division which had 26 deaths, up from 16.The Bendigo divisionrecorded 19 deaths (+3), Dandenong 18 (-15) and Geelong 17 (+4).

Spikes in motorcyclistand pedestriandeaths remain aconcern.

Motorcyclist fatalities rose more than athird,with 57 deaths compared with 42 in 2021 and afive-year average of 38.

Pedestrian fatalities wereupmore than 50 per cent, with 44 deaths recorded. This compared with 29 in 2021 and afive-year average of 35.

Driver fatalities fell with 101 recorded (-13) while 22 passengers were killed, down from 33 in 2021.

Cyclist deaths were unchanged at 12.

Males comprised three-quarters of people killed on the roads with 179 deaths compared with 61 females.

There was aslightincrease in the number of young people killed on the roads, with 35 deaths among those aged 18-24, up from 31. Deaths among road users aged 60+ were down but deaths among those aged 50-59 increased almost 30 per cent to 32.

Acting assistant commissioner road policing,Justin Goldsmith, said it was pleasing to see an improvement in road trauma towards the end of the year.

“While the number of lives lost is only slightly above the previous year when there were still significant travel restrictions due to COVID, it’s crucial to stress any life lost is one too many,” he said.

“These arenot just numbers -each represents amother, father, brother, sister, child or friend whose life has beenneedlessly cutshort. Many people will be celebrating the start of the new year but our thoughts are withthe families and loved onesof those who will never get the chance to see 2023.

“Theriseinmotorcyclistand pedestrian fatalities over the last

12 months is especially concerning. We’re also seeing increased trauma in country areas. Victoria Police is focused on reducing this needless loss of life and we urge all road users to look out for each other.

“Often it is behaviours within our control likechoosing to speed, driving after afew drinks, or texting behind the wheel thatresultsinthe most catastrophic road trauma. That’s why you will continue to see us right across the state checking yourspeed, conducting alcohol and drug tests and removing unlicensedand suspended drivers from the road.”

Victoria Police willcontinuetowork with its road safety partners as part of the Road Safety Strategy20212030, which aims to halve deaths and significantly reduce injuries by 2030.

The strategy sets Victoriaonthe path towards zero road deaths by 2050.

Anumber of state-wideroad policing operationswill be conducted duringhigh-risk road traumaperiods throughout 2023, starting with the upcoming Australia Day long weekend.

Statistics released from Op Roadwise

By ZOE ASKEW

VICTORIA Police recordedatotal of 4803 speeding offences -more than athird of offences detectedduring OperationRoadwise, a12-dayroad operation targeting speed, impaired driving and distraction.

Of the total recorded speeding offences during the 12-dayoperation, spanningfrom 12:01amonFriday, December 16, until 11:59pm on Tuesday, December 27, 3753 motorists were travelling 10km/h-25km/h over the speed limit,anextremely concerning figure for police.Researchshows travelling at such speeds greatly increases theriskofacollision causing seriousinjuryorworse, by more than 40 per cent.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Road Policing, Justin Goldsmith, said the degree of speeding detectedacross Operation Roadwise “is simply unacceptable”.

“The fact such alarge proportion of these drivers were at least 10km/h over the limit shows this isn’t justaninadvertent mistake,”Acting Assistant Commissioner Goldsmith said.

“It’s adeliberate, conscious decision, and one that dramatically increases the likelihood of road trauma.”

Victoria Police recorded seven deaths across the operation compared with nine fatalities overthe same period in 2022.

Road fatalities in Victoria increased by 3.5% from 230 in 2021 to 238 in 2022, with 132 deaths occurring on rural roads.SevenpeoplediedonWellington Shire roads in 2022.

Drug-drivingand illegal phone usealsoproved cause for concern, with 375 drivers returning positive drug results, 511 drivers returning positive blood alcohol results and 783 motors detected for mobile phone offences.

As part of Operation Roadwise, Victoria Police performed 5122 roadside drug tests.With a2022 strike rate of one in 14, drug-driving statistics have climbed by nearly 21 per cent since 2021.

Drink-driving offences, on the other hand, declined in 2022, with 511 motorists returning positive blood alcohol results from201,091 preliminary breath tests, astrike rate of one in 394.

While these statistics were an improvement from lastyear’s operation, in which oneinevery270 motorists testedreturned an illegalbloodalcohol reading, VictoriaPolice statedthat drink-driving offences remain higher than before the pandemic.

“Ofsomeencouragement is the correction we’ve started to seeinalcohol detections off thebackof some really troubling impairment figures during the pandemic,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Goldsmith said.

“We’ll continue to strongly enforce in this area, as well as clampingdown on drug driverswhose behaviour contributes enormous harm and heartache.”

Victoria police detected 783 driversillegallyusing their phones across Opereration Roadwaise, 247 more than in 2021.

Using aphonewhile drivingincreases the risk of a collision tenfold; if you use your mobile phone when driving, you also run the risk of being slapped with a$555fineand four demerit points.

Victoria Police’sroad safety operations are now focusing on holiday hotspots, with an increased police presence on the roads expected to continuewell into the New Year.

“As we head into the New Year, we’re appealing to drivers to reflect on their habits behind the wheel and usethis periodasanopportunity to really reset and commit to doing all they can to improve safety not only for themselves but all road users,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Goldsmith said.

“We’ll continue doing all we can, so expect to see police out on the roads and, in particular, those holiday hotspots whereweknow so many people have chosen to enjoy this summer period.”

For more information and tips for staying safe on the roads, visit the Road Safetypageonthe Victoria Police website.

Ongoing: VictoriaPolicewillagain work with road safety partnersthis year,aspartofits Road Safety Stratergy 2021-2030. file photograph

Latrobe has highest rate

LATROBECityrecorded the highest rate of cervical screening in generalpractice in Gippsland, new figures show.

While the cervical screening rate in Gippsland (51.4 per cent) is lower compared to Australia(55.7 per cent), the proportion of the population screened in general practice in Gippsland was the equal highest for Primary Health Network regions nationally.

The data is highlighted in the Medicaresubsidised GP,allied health and specialist healthcare across local areas 2021–22 report.

Gippsland Primary Health Network (Gippsland PHN) chief executive officer, Amanda Proposch, said the report clearly showed the important role general practices played in improving cervical screening.

“The COVID-19 pandemic had amajor impact on awide range of health outcomes, so it is pleasing to see that cervical screening under the Practice Incentive Program (PIP) is comparatively high in general practices in the region,” she said.

The PIP Incentive beganon1 August 2019. It focuses on ten qualityimprovement measures (QIM) and is apayment to general practices for activities that support data-driven continuous quality improvement in patient outcomes and the delivery of best-practice care. Atotal of 43.8 per cent of females aged 25 to 74 years in Gippsland had acervical screening test recorded in their GP record within the previous five years (July 2022), compared to 38.2 per cent across Australia.

“Gippsland PHN has worked closely with general practice to improve the uptake of andaccess to cervical screening services,” Ms Proposch said. “The Latrobe Health Innovation Zone’s Screen for Me initiative clearly had an impact.”

Screen For Me was asocial marketing campaign designed to boost community participation in the national breast, bowel and cervical cancer screening programs. It used the strength of local community members to have an influence on their loved one’s health by asking them to Screen For Me. The initiative then expanded to ‘I’ve Screened for Me’ and also supported the ‘It’s Time to Catch Up’ campaign run by the Australian National Cervical Cancer Foundation proceeding the pandemic.

Cervicalcanceristhe fourth most common cancer among women globally. In Australia,it accounts for almost two per cent of all female cancers. Two human papillomavirus (HPV) types are responsible for nearly 50 per cent of high-grade cervical pre-cancers.

“Cervical cancer can be cured if diagnosed at an early stage and treated promptly.” Ms Proposch said. “Vaccination againstHPV and screening and treatment of pre-cancer lesions is acost-effective way to prevent cervical cancer.”

Women and peoplewith acervix aged 25 to 74 years of age are invited to have acervical screening test every five years through their healthcare provider.

Alternatively, all cervical screening participants now have the choice to self-collect their own cervical screening test sample.

Seethe Department of Health websitefor moreinformationhttps:// www.health.gov.au/campaigns/ self-collection-for-the-cervicalscreening-test.

Reinforced focus

By TOMHAYES

THE Andrews Labor Government has reinforced itsfocus on reducing road trauma in thenew year after the number of people killed on Victoria’s roads increased in 2022.

As the year ended, 240 people lost their lives on Victorianroads- an increase on the 233deaths last year, but the fourth lowest since TAC records began, including the pandemic-affected record low of 211 in 2020.

TAC acting chief executive officer, Liz Cairns, said sadly, more than 240 families were starting this year missing aloved one who lost their life on the roads in 2022. “It’stragic, it’s avoidable and we need all Victorians to make safe choices and play arole in turning it around,” she said.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne, said our heartsgoout to allthose affected by road trauma. “We can’t acceptthat anyone should lose their life, or have it permanently changed, as aresult of getting behind the wheel,” she said.

Motoristsonregional roads remain abig concern, with 134 people dying in country areas compared with 119 in 2021, while metropolitan road deaths dropped from 114 in 2021 to 106 in 2022.

Morethan two-thirds of regional fatalities occurred on 100-110km/h roads.

Crashesonrural high-speed roads continue to be frequent, where the combination of high speeds and motorists travelling longer distances mean consequences are often more severe when something goes wrong.

There was adecline in driverand passenger deaths (126 down from 147);however,27per cent of people who diedinavehicle were notwearing aseatbelt.

Vulnerable road usersincluding motorcyclist (57 up from 43) and pedestrian (44 up from 29) fatalities increased year-on-year.

Poor driver behaviour, including speeding and drink or drug driving, continues to contribute to lives lost on the roads, together with alarge proportion (40 per cent) of unauthorised motorcyclists.

TheMinister for Police,AnthonyCarbines,said all Victorians should make asmart choice behind the wheel this new year and get home safely.

“If you speed, use your phone or drive under the influence of drugsoralcohol, rest assured -you will be caught,” he said.

Victoria has historically been aworld leader in road safety -from the introduction of compulsory

seat belt laws to anotolerance approach to drink driving, but Mr Carbines said work would not be complete until no lives were lost on the roads.

The Labor Government aims continue its Road SafetyStrategy2021-2030 and Action Plan,which is designed to protect lives, improve safety and achieve its targets. These include halving the number of fatalities by 2030, with work focused across education, infrastructure, enforcement, policy and technology.

Initiatives target road user cohorts that are most at-risk –including vulnerable and unprotected road users, people who drive for work and roadside workers, and those who engage in high-risk behaviour.

The Victorian Budget 2021/22 also invested $49.4 million to install and commission new fixed road safety cameras at 35 dangerous intersection sites and two point-to-point highway camera systems. These cameras will begin enforcing throughout 2023.

The TSACemphasised to Victorians: slow down, put the phone away, never drive drunk or on drugs, take adequate breakswhen drivinglong distances, and be aware of pedestrians,cyclists and motorcyclists.

Support: Minister forRoadsand Road Safety,Melissa Horne

Chester returns to thefront bench

FEDERAL MP Darren Chester has returned to the Coalition’s front-benchfor the first timesince 2021

TheMember forGippsland has beenappointedas ShadowMinister for Regional Education,Regional Development, Local Government and Territories.

Mr Chester was previously Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and DefencePersonnel in the Morrison government, before losingthe portfoliosinacabinet reshuffle.

He has been elevatedtohis new roles at the expense of the Member for Calare, AndrewGee, who resigned from the National Party over its stance on aVoice to Parliament.

In astatement, Mr Chester welcomedthe confidence shown in him by the federal leader of The Nationals, David Littleproud, and pledged to “work constructively to achieve positive outcomes for all regional Australians.”

“Wherever possible, Iwill work in abipartisan way with the responsible Ministers but will have no hesitation in highlighting areas for improvement as we develop the Coalition’s policies in consultationwith communities andstakeholders across Australia,” he said.

“Small town Australia needsbig voices in Federal Parliament.”

Mr Chester said he would bring his experience in government and opposition to the new role and focus on deliveringpolices,programs, infrastructure and services that improve the lives of people who choose to live outside the capital cities.

“We need to keep investing in regional education for our youth to achieve their full potential as tradespeople, running their ownbusinessorfarm, or undertaking tertiary studies,” he said.

“We have already made access to university more affordable for students forced to move away from the regions, now we need to improve access to tertiary studies in our own communities.”

Mr Chester said the previous government understood the need to improve regionaltransport and telecommunication connectivity,while also investing in the liveability of countrycommunities, to attract and retain skilled workers.

“Long-term and sustainable jobs are fundamental to regional development and growth. We need to keep adding value and creating new opportunitiesinour traditional industries across regional Australia, whilealsosupporting investment in emerging industries,” he said.

“That means more peopleworkingonthe ground

in regionalAustralia to control feral animals and weeds, undertake bushfire protection and prevention activities, support disaster resilience, and practical action to improve water quality in our lakes and rivers.”

Mr Chester said over the past 20 years in Gippsland, there had been areductioninthe workforce to undertakepractical environmental work and an explosion in the city-based bureaucrats writing reports.

“As the custodians of avast public land estate, we need to be training alocal workforce and providing more career opportunities in natural resource management,disaster prevention, and ecotourism

in regional areas across our nation,” he said.

In November, Mr Littleproud and his fellow party membersannounced that The Nationalswould not be supporting aconstitutionally-enshrined Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

Their position was widely criticised by commentators at the time, with First Nationsactivist and lawyerNoelPearsonaccusing Mr Littleproud of being “incapable of the leadership that’s necessary for the country and for his party”.

Mr Chester, who was in New York when the announcement was made, has publicly supported his party’s stance.

“The Nationals believe the Voice, as it is currently

proposed, will not advance the primary aim of Closing the Gap and dealing with real issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” Mr Chester wrote in aFacebookpost last month.

“It will not economically empower people and sadly, Ifear it could widen divisions which already exist in our nation.”

Mr Gee, who was also not present for The Nationals’ announcement, has confirmed that he continues to support aVoice.

Mr Chesterhas previously said that Mr Gee should resign from parliamentand standagain in aby-election as an independent candidate.

Guess who’sback: Gippsland MP Darren Chester with federalNationalsleader David Littleproud.MrChester has returned to theCoalition’s frontbench forthe firsttime since 2021 file photograph

Target Time No.0140

Howtoplay... Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or morecan youlist? The centreletter must be included and each letter may be used only once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in ‘s’. Solution next Wednesday

Christmasmiracle

AMORWELL manislookingforward to buyinga house and some land this year after unwrapping a$100,000prize on an Instant Scratch-Its ticket he received for Christmas.

His top prize-winning $5 Merry Christmas Instant Scratch-Its ticket was bought at Morwell Lottery Centre on Commercial Road.

“It was areally good Christmas!” he exclaimed when speaking to an official from The Lott

“My sister bought me alittle pack of Instant Scratch-Its tickets for Christmas. We were standing around with family on Christmas Day, and while people were unwrapping gifts, Iscratched these tickets.

“I said, ‘I think Ijust won $100,000!’. They thought Iwas bullsh***ing.

“I did wonder if my sister might be abit devastated she didn’t scratch the ticket herself, but she was rapt Igot it.

“I’ve been saving to buy ahouse and some land. This is areal boost to help set me up.

“It’s amazing!”

VOLUNTEERS from the Avalon Airshow are organisinga coach for thoseinGippslandwho want to attend the 2023 event, with proceeds going to alocal RSL Veterans Funds.

The journey is being arranged by volunteers such as Ron Gregory,who is offeringtodriveinterested parties to the 2023Avalon Airshowvia Dyson Coaches.

There willonlybeone coach, departing fromSale.

“The coach will depart ‘The Signal Box’ carpark (opposite Woolworths Sale) at 6.30am on Saturday, March 4, returning at approximately 9pm,”Mr Gregory said.

“By arrangement, we can pick up en routeat Rosedale, Traralgon, Morwell and Trafalgar.” Cost, including admissiontothe show and transportbycoach, is $170 foradults,and $80 for accompanying children under 15.

said theteam wasthrilled alocal resident received ahefty Christmas surprise.

“Isn’t that fantastic!” she exclaimed.

“We’ve sold afew top prize-winning Instant Scratch-Its tickets over the years, and this is one of the bigger ones.

“We wish our winner all the best with their prize and here’s to more big wins in Morwell!”

In FY22, there were 139 Instant Scratch-Its top prizewinners across The Lott’s jurisdictions, who collectively tookhome morethan $14.51 million in top prizes.

During this same time, Instant Scratch-Itsplayers enjoyed more than 28.7 million wins acrossall prize tiers worth more than $261 million.

This equates to almost three-quarters of amillion dollars won on Instant Scratch-Its every day.

Morwell LotteryCentre has enjoyed ahot streak in the last couple of years.

As well as this win, the centre was also home to the Set For Life Second Division winner last year, as well as two Division 1wins in six months between April 2021 and October 2021.

“Overthe past five shows we have raised in excess of $30,000for worthy causes (suchasFightMND) and this time all proceeds will be donated to the local RSL Veterans Fund,” Mr Gregory said.

“Seatsare limited so please register your interest soon.”

Those wanting to register or want further information should reach out to Ron Gregory, either via email at ronandgillian@optusnet.com.auor telephone on 0434 007 187.

Headtowww.airshow.com.au/airshow2023 to view the program and find more details.The Avalon Airshow typically runs every second year; because of the pandemic, this will be the first event to run since 2019. It willbeheld from FridayMarch 3toSundayMarch 5.

Morwell Lottery Centre owner Jeanette Burgess

Sweet success: Morwell Lottery Centre owners Jeanette and RayBurgess were stoked to learn their storewas home to a$100,000Instant Scratch-Itwinner photograph liam durkin

Bushfire policy on wrong track

COMMENT BY JOHN CAMERON

1. The government’s rosy spin on managing bushfire risk

IN his letter to the Latrobe Valley Express (29/12/22), the Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman painted arosy picture of forest fire management in Victoria and made the following points:  “Victoria is Australia’s most bushfire prone state”.

 “By investing in prevention we aim to protect people, property and the environment by reducing the risk and impact of major bushfires”.

 “As aworld leader in bushfire risk management we have many different tools in our toolbox”.

 “Planned burning is not the only way we manage bushfire risk and reduce fuel...we’ve increased our use of mowing, slashing and mulching this year”.

 We’ve expanded our network of strategic fuel breaks…in the highest priority locations –close to towns, water catchments and sensitive environments”.

 “Over 200 cultural burns are planned over the next three years”.

 “We work with CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria, government and local communities to deliver the best local approaches to bushfire risk management in Victoria”.

 “The combination of our actions helps communities and our environment to become more resilient”.

Let’s look at howmuch of the above‘spin’ is backed up with substance?

2. Some keyfacts on Victoria’smanagement of bushfirerisk

VICTORIA certainlyhas hadmore thanits fair share of megafires and can claim to be prone to bushfires, but the severity and extent of recent megafires has been mainly attributed to deficient fire mitigation –including fires such as the ‘Great Divide Fire’ in 2003, ‘Victorian Alps Fire’ in 200607, ‘Black Saturday’ in 2009, ‘and ‘Black Summer’ fires of 2019-2020.

Victoria has apoor record of protecting people, property and the environmentfrom bushfiresand is alaggard rather than aworld leader in bushfire risk management.

Investment in water bombing aircraft will have littleimpact suppressing or controlling araging bushfire in heavy forest fuels, but enough reduced areas of sufficient size and managementcan assist greatly in containing the spread of bushfires.

By contrast the regime employed in theforests of the South West of Western Australia is world class.

While planned burning is not the only way to manage bushfire risk and reduce fuel, it is the most proven and cost-effective tool available at this time.

The South West forests of Western Australia are arguably more fire prone than Victoria, with their longerand dryer summersand the occasional impact of cyclonic winds in WA.

Proven science on the impact of forest fuel on fire behaviour has been available for decades. Fire intensity is heavily dependent on the quantity of combustiblefuel in the forests (typically the accumulation over many years of up to 40 tonnes perhectare of dead leaves, twigs,branches,plants andbark in the forest). Doubling the mass of the fuel quadruples fire intensity, but halving the fuel delivers afourfold lowering of fire intensity.

This science has been successfully implemented in theSouth West forests of Western Australia for 60 years. This has resulted in no megafires and onlytwo lives lostinSouth West WA, whereas Victoria has had five megafires and 309 lives lost over the past 60 years.

Since 2000, Victoria’s fuel reduction effort has declinedand theaverage annual proportionofthe forestburnt by bushfire each year and lives lost to bushfires have increased.Since 2000,65per cent of all fire impacting Victorian forests was wildfire (and 35 per cent prescribed fire),compared to only 21 per cent of all fire impacting South West WA forests being wildfire (and 79 per cent prescribed fire).

Much of the area burnt by wildfires is burnt at high fire intensity, which causes considerable environmental damage as well as causing loss of human life, livestock and wildlife. When correctly implemented, prescribed fire burns at low fire intensity, akin to the fire stick approach successfully used for 40,000 years by our first people and copied by fire savvy ‘bushmen’ over about 200 years.

3. Victoria’strack record under the ‘Safer Together’ policy

THE government talks up its ‘Safer Together’ fire policy. In 2015, Victoria introduced anew approach, called ‘Safer Together’.

The Minister Hon Lisa Neville said: “Ournew approach is about doing more to reduce

the risk of bushfire, and knowingwhatwedois more effective. We will involve local communitiesin decision making, taking into account what people value in their local area.”

The resulting prescribed burning has been about 1.2 per cent, well below the Victorian Bushfire Royal Commission (VBRC) target of five per cent, which was recommended following 119 deaths in the disastrous 2009 bushfires.

The VBRC put amuch higher value on human life than the ‘Safer Together’ policy.

For the BlackSummer bushfire in East Gippsland, there was awindow between the 22nd of November and 8th of December 2019 when the forest Fire Danger Indexremained below 20 to 30.

Thisfire dangerindexwas sufficiently low to allowsuppression, if therewas prudent fuel reduction, alongwithadequate fireaccess,early detection,rapid initial attackand appropriatefire suppression force.

The fire wasn’t contained to afew hundred hectares becauseofinadequate fuel reduction, fire access and suppression.

The Victorian Auditor General (VAGO. 2020. Reducing Bushfire Risk) at least uncovered some ‘truth’.

TheAuditor General raised so many issues with the modellingof‘residual fire risk’, which underpins the VictorianGovernments ‘SaferTogether Policy’, such that it is ‘not fit for purpose’.

The government continues with its ‘Safer Together Policy’ and asks communities to accept

70 per cent residual risk -anunacceptablyhigh level of risk insufficient to protect lives, livelihoods and the environment.

The Victorian government only achieves 70 per cent residual risk by counting the area burnt by disastrous wildfire, the fires the policy is supposed to avoid -what anonsense.

Put simply, 100 per cent residual risk means there has been no fuel reduction burning; 70 per cent meansthere has beenonly 30 per cent fuel reduction.

Evidence shows that the areas burntbythe wildfires are agreater fire risk going forward due to the development of dense and tall ladder fuel, includingvery flammablespecies such as Petrol Bush. Much of Victoria’s forests now contain tall dense flammable species and dead treesthat encourage raging crown fires. This undesirable outcome is avoided with low intensity prescribed fire.

Much of Victoria’sforests nowhave over 25 tonne per hectare of fuel, making fire suppression virtually impossible even at very low forest fire danger indices (i.e. even without drought and under mild weather conditions).

Thegovernment focus on fuel reduction ‘closer to towns’ needstobeaugmentedwith more fuel reduction closer to sources of ignition. Lightning accounts for about one quarter of ignitions and almost half the area burnt by wildfire. Victoria’s prescribedburnplansshow insufficient fuel reduction in the hills including areas lightning started the 2019-20 fires.

4.

Victoria’shigh fuel reduction costs and inefficiency

VICTORIAN fuel reduction undertaken by the Department of Environment, Land, Waterand Planning (DELWP) is certainly not ‘world leading’. Over the pastsix yearsDELWP spent $736 million on fuel reduction at an average cost of $1,137/fuel reduced hectare of which $250/ha was direct cost and awhopping$887/ha (78 per cent) was spent on indirect and overhead costs.The costoffuel reduction by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA)inthe South West forests of WA averaged only$299/fuel reduced hectare overthe last five years. (DELWP and DBCA annual reports and webpages).Victoria’s fuel reduction costs are about four times those of SouthWest WA. Differences in topography and forest type are insufficient to explain such alarge difference in cost.

Victoria’s excessive fuel reductioncostsare related to organisational issues. Fuel reduction is managed by DELWP, acumbersome government department or‘conglomerate’. DELWP has 59 per cent of its staff working in Melbourne CBD and only11per cent of employees classified as field staff –those ‘at the fire front’.

The governmentneedstoburnits ‘Safer Together’ policy and revert to the recommendations of the 2009 VictorianBushfire Royal Commission, and fix the ‘centralised’ organisationalissuesthat constrain the efficiency and effectiveness of the outcome focused people in DELWP.

John Cameron (Dip Hort. Burnley and MBA Monash) is aTraralgon forestry and business consultant with several decadesofexperience.

Response: Local consultant John Cameron hashit backatChief Fire Officer Chris Hardman. file photograph

Have afieldday with smart farmpower

RENEWABLE energy has made ahugedifference to the Wilandra Farms business in Clydebank, which is now moving towards being carbon neutral.

Wilco Droppert and Sandra Jefford were faced with energy bills greater than $120,000 ayear for their irrigation and dairy operations before they had an energy audit done in 2018 to see what changes could be made.

The audit report showed that there were many ways to improve energy efficiency. Steps included installing larger diameter irrigation water pipes, replacing inefficient pumps and changing nozzle sizes on pivots.

The couple also wanted to generate their own power, and engaged Steve Soutar from Alternate Energy Innovations (AEI) in Morwell to design a renewable energy action plan.

With funding from Agriculture Victoria,this plan hasbeenimplemented, and the farm has 200 kilowatts of solar panels that provide power for most of their irrigation.

Other important features of the system are the dam, automation on all pivots and at bores and the dam pumps,and the energy managementsystem that co-ordinates irrigation with available energy.

While the cost of the upgrades has beensignificant, with more than $1 million invested, Ms Jefford expects to recoup thosecosts within seven years.

The renewable energysystem alone has made “a big difference” in terms of profitability, according to Ms Jefford, with irrigation energy bills lowered from about$80,000 to just $1200 last year.

Not only are the business’ costsdramatically decreased,but their greenhouse gas emissions are also reduced, labour input for irrigation has droppedbyabout 15 hours aweek, and the farmers sleep better at night because most irrigation happens during the day.

Changesmadeinthe dairytodate include replacing oil ring vacuum pumps with alobe pump, which requires about 55 per cent less power, and

improved waterflowsthroughthe plate cooler. Thisgets milk to the vat about two or three degrees cooler than previously.

The realisationthat greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced, and carbon stored in the soil and vegetation,have led the business to look at how they can store more carbon than the farm emits, if animals’ methane emissions are reduced by dietary modification.

This complex topic will be covered in afield day planned for Thursday, February 2atThe Stables in Sale. Speakers willinclude Lachlan Monsbourgh

fromRabobank,

During the afternoon, participants will have the chance to look at the renewable energy equipment and talk to Wilco and Sandra about how the system works.

For bookings,gotowww.ivvy.com.au/event/ wilandra2023

For other enquiries, call Deanneon0419878 055 or John on 0412 368 739.

Keep domestic birds safe from disease this summer

AGRICULTURE Victoria is urging birdowners to help prevent emergency animal diseases through the routine useofbiosecurity measuresathome, sales, bird shows and race events.

Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Graeme Cooke, said poultry farmers, and bird and backyard chook owners needed to be vigilant for disease in their birds, such as avian influenza.

“Signs of avian influenza include breathing difficulties such as coughing, sneezing, or rasping, while ruffled feathers, dopiness, diarrhoea and closed eyes can also be evident,” he said..

“Other signs include swelling and purple discolourationofthe head,comb, wattles and neck, and arapid drop in eating, drinking and egg production.”

Dr Cooke said infected birds shed avian influenza in saliva, nasal secretions and faeces.

“Wild birds including waterfowl are anatural host for the virus and don’tusually show any symptoms. Theyneedtobekeptaway from domestic birds, their food and water,” he said.

“Domestic poultry, chickens, ducks,geese, turkeys, guineafowl,quail,pheasants, emus and ostriches are most susceptible to being affected by avian influenza.”

Dr Cooke said an on-farm biosecurity plan was thebest management tool poultry farmers could

use to reduce the risk of introducing infectious diseases.

“Other actionsinclude maintaining ahigh level of hygiene, rodent control around poultry sheds and feed-bins, and avoiding contact with non-commercial poultry and wild birds,”hesaid..

“New birds should be quarantined prior to beingintegrated into existingcommercial or backyardflocks. Disease transmissionshould be minimised between poultry farms by cleaning vehicles, equipment and clothing after visiting another farm.”

Poultry farmers and bird owners with backyard flocks are urged to report cases of unexplained sudden increase in bird deaths or asudden drop in egg production to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotlineon1800 675 888, to your local vet or to Agriculture Victoria.

Dr Cooke also reminded all livestock owners, including those with poultry, of the need to have aproperty identificationcode (PIC), which allows Agriculture Victoria to trace and control disease outbreaks.

“Getting aPIC is freeand easilydone online via the Agriculture Victoriawebsite,” Dr Cookesaid.

Afull list of biosecurity measures for poultry producers is available on the Agriculture Victoria website.

Charlie Prell for Farmers For Climate Action, Steve Soutar from AEI and Megan Hill from Dairy Australia.

Future: Anumber of farmsare moving to become carbonneutral. photograph supplied

How to efficiently cool your house

NOW thatsummer has finally arrived in Gippsland accompaniedbyprolongedspells of warmweather, Sustainability Victoria says it’s time to think about how youcan cool your home efficiently;saving both money and resources while keeping the summer heat out.

While fans, evaporative coolers and air conditioners play their part when cooling ahouse, experts at Sustainability Victoria recommend optimising passive cooling techniques such as shading and insulation before flicking the switch.

Matt Genever, Sustainability Victoria’s interim chief executive, says householders can reduce energy consumption and keepcostslow while keeping their homecool if they focusonfivekey factors; insulation, window design,orientation and coverings, draught-proofing, ventilation, and landscaping.

“These passivecooling techniques can keep your home comfortable and minimise the need for fans and air conditioning,” Mr Genever said.

“But if you do need to switch on the airconditioning, remember to set it between24°C and 26°C -every degree lower will increase running costs by around 10 per cent.

“By cooling your home efficiently, you can keep the summer heat out, make your home cheaper to run and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

SustainabilityVictoria’stop tips to stay cool this summer and save energy:

 Insulation -it’snot just about keeping the warmth inside in winter; it’s about keeping the heat out in summer. Install insulation in your ceiling, in walls and under suspended timber floors to seal out the warm air.

 Windows -glass can let alot of heat into your home, especially if you have large west, east and north-facing windows that aren’t adequately shaded. Use of external shading is best as it stops the sunshine before it hits the window, but even internal shading can reduce heat entry and improve comfort.

 Draught proofing -sealing up gaps and cracks will minimise the amount of hot air

entering your home on summer days. It’s a relatively easy and cost-effective upgrade to help reduce your cooling bills.

 Ventilation -oncethe temperature starts to drop in the evening, or after acool change, it’s important to open your doors and windows to flush warm air from your house and allow cooler outside air to enter.

 Landscaping -careful selection and positioning of plants can provide summer shading and act as abuffer against hot winds.

If you do need extra help to cool things down, fans can be acheap and effective way to stay comfortable on warm, humidsummernights.

Fans can keep you feeling more comfortable without having to operate your air-conditioner at lower temperature settings and assist with natural ventilation, helping to move air through your home. When things really heat

up, air-conditioners can be used to extract heat from inside, cooling the air to amore comfortable temperature. Reverse-cycle air-conditioners are the most efficient, but follow the tips below to ensure you get the most out your system.

Tips forusing air-conditioners efficiently:

 Keep windows and doors closed;

 Minimise the area to be cooled by closing doors to rooms that don’t require cooling;  Use the thermostat correctly by setting it between 24°C and 26°C for living areas -every degree lower in summer will increase running costs by around 10 per cent;

 Don’t leave your air conditioner running -it’s amyth that running your air conditioner 24/7 is cheaper to run. And don’t forget to turn the

entire system off at the switchboard completely if you go away on aholiday;

 Use atimer or programmable thermostat to turn your system on ahalfhour or so before you come home so that it is comfortable when you arrive, and to ensure that it is switched off overnight;

 Shade the compressor unit -ifthe compressor unit (the part located outside) is exposed to full sun during the day, shade it with an awning, shade mesh or asimilar structure. Be careful not to restrict air movement aroundthe unit, and;  Maintain your air-conditioner -clean air filters regularly and have your air-conditioner serviced regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

For moreinformation, visit Sustainability Victoria’s reduce cooling costs at home.

THE Country Fire Authority has announced thatthe firedangerperiod (FDP) willstart next Monday, January 16, in Latrobe City and the shires of Wellington, Baw Baw and South Gippsland.

The FDP will begin at 1.00am on Monday in the four municipalities, which make up the CFA’s South East Region.

FDP restrictions already apply across many parts of Victoria and these restrictions are based on assessments of the amount of rain, grassland curing rate and local conditions.

Thereturn of aLaNiñaweather pattern has led to widespread rainfall and flooding in parts of the state,howeverthat doesn’t meancommunities can become complacent about the increasing fire risk this season, says the CFA.

The Seasonal BushfireOutlook for summer identified potential for increased grassfire conditions for the 2022/23fire season, due to significant grass growth and delayed harvest activities.

Based on the latest outlook, the fire season is expected to be normal in Victoria, except for parts of central, north east and eastern Victoria where the potential is below normal.

CFA Acting Deputy Chief Officer South East Region,Bryan Russell, said whilesome parts of Gippsland remained quite wet, other areas were

rapidly drying due to the recent warmer weather.

“Grassed areas are beginning to dry off and this increases the risk of grassfires,” he said.“While thereare no restrictions in East Gippsland and Bass Coast shires currently, we are closely monitoring the seasonal conditions and expect to see the introduction of the Fire Danger Period in the coming weeks.”

CFA firefighters have beenpreparing for the bushfire season and they are urging the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.

Residents in these areas should take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to conduct safe private burn-offstoreduce fuel loads and clean up their property

If people are using fire to clean up their property aheadofthe FDP,they should notify authorities of the burn-off at the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au, or by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511.

No burning off is permitted during the FDP without apermit to burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website.

There are very strict conditions attached to these permits, and the liability sits with the permit holder to ensure they always act safely. Monitor weather

conditions and do not burn-off during days of high winds.

More information about burn-off restrictions specific to an area can be found by consulting thelocal council. More information and restrictions are published at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/ fire-danger-period-restrictions.

Victorians can find out “Can IorCan’t I?” information at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/ can or by calling the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.

As of September 1, the fire danger rating system changed and is now nationally consistent across everystate and territory. The system reduces the number of danger levels from six in the previous system,tofour;Moderate,High,Extreme and Catastrophic.

Victorians can learn more about the new fire danger rating system on the CFA website.

Fire Danger Period information:



District Office. You can apply for apermit at firepermits.vic.gov.au

 Lighting afire in the open without apermit is an offence and can bring apenalty of over $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.

 Barbeques and fires for cooking andwarmth do not require apermit, but must be lit in properly constructed fireplaces (to view complete conditions visit cfa.vic.gov.au/warningsrestrictions/can

 The use of an incinerator, chainsaw/lawn mower, welding/grinding equipment and vehicles that come in contact withvegetation and machinery with an internal combustion/ heat engine are permitted provided conditions are followed.

 Farmers canfind legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/ farms –this information is important especially for new farmers, bush block owners or hobby farmers.

ATotalFireBan declarationmeans no fires can be lit for the declared districtfor thatday unlessthere is aspecific exemption or special permit issued.This applies irrespectiveofthe fire restriction status for agiven municipality. Further details can be found at cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/can/

Moneysaver: Householderscan reduce energy consumption and keep costs lowwhile keeping their home cool by followinganumber of simple steps Photo: Contributed

Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook

THE Australian Seasonal BushfireOutlook for summer,developed by AFAC (National Council for Fireand Emergency Services) and supported by the Bureau of Meteorology with fireand land managers, is the first look at bush and grass fireconditions in 2022-23, and was released in November 2022.

The Seasonal Outlook reflects the priorities in each state and territory for the coming months given the expected climate conditions.

Over the course of the summer,vegetation will naturally dry out with the normal seasonal cycle, and firepotential may rise quickly with any extended period of hot, dry and windy weather.Thismeans that it is possible for regions of below normal bushfire potential at the start of summer to reach normal or above normal bushfirepotential later in the season.

In respect of Victoria, the jurisdictional summary from the Seasonal BushfireOutlook states:

Much of Victoria has experienced significant rainfall during 2022, with highest on recordrainfall across northernand central areas in recent months, while parts of the southwest and Gippsland have experienced closer to average rainfall.

The current climate outlook for summer indicates increased potential for above average rainfall particularly in central and easternVictoria, with generally average to slightly cooler than average maximum temperatures.

With such high levels of moistureinthe landscape, coupled with acontinuingwet outlook, bushfire activity is expected to be limited in most foothill and wet forests this summer

However,drier forests, woodlands and heathlands (inland and coastal) arelikely to support bushfire activity with the onset of hot and dry weather conditions.

Significant growth of grass fuel in paddocks and roadsides is already evident across much of the state, and likely to continue, however grassland curing is lagging the longer term average. This means below normal grass fireactivity is expected in early summer,however the risk of grass fires is likely to increase throughout the summer period as curing advances.

Suppression resources may have limited access to fires starting within pastures and croplands affected by saturated soils during the early summer period.

Additionally,high landscape moisturemay lead to delayed cropland harvest activities, which may enhance firerisk associated with unharvested crops.

From theCountry FireAuthority

THE forecast of below normal grass fireactivity is expected in early summer due to saturated soils, however,the risk of grass fires may increase later in summer as grasses dry out, so it is important communities remain vigilant to the risk of fires no matter wherethey live.

Significant grass growth in paddocks and roadsides is already evident across much of the

state, and delayed harvest activities may enhance firerisk over summer

While it’sbeen awet start to summer,Victoria is well prepared for the potential of fires, with amix of water bombing aircraft, air supervision and air intelligence.

Australia’sFireDanger Rating System has also been improved, with four new ratings designed to be easier to understand and provide clear advice about actions to take.

Moderate, high, extreme and catastrophic ratings show how dangerous abushfirecould be.

When no FireDanger Rating is issued, an arrow will point to a‘no rating’ level.

Country FireAuthority chief officer,Jason Heffernan, says that “Victoria is one of the most fire-prone regions in the world, so even an average fireseason can have devastating consequences”.

“With the firedangerperiod already commenced in some parts of the state, now is the time to prepare your property by pruning branches near buildings, clearing gutters and keeping grass shorter than 10 centimetres.”

FireRescueVictoria acting firerescue commissioner,Gavin Freeman continues with “Weare working alongside our emergency service colleagues to undertake significant planning and preparedness activities to ensureweare ready to respond to all emergency incidents this fireseason, however it is important Victorians do their parttoo”.

“It’simportant you understandyour fireriskand get

prepared now,don’t wait until afirestarts. Make sure you and everyone in your household knows what to do during the summer period, when fires can start and spread quickly

“If you live near grasslands, you need to understand the risks associated with fast-moving grassfires. Ifa firestarts in grasslands near your home, walk two streets back and keep clear of responding emergency services.”

In respect of forest firemanagement, Forest Fire Management Victoriaacting chief fireofficer,Allyson Lardner,advises that Forest FireManagement Victoria takes ayear-round approach toreducing bushfireriskonpublicland, andwiththe predicted wetter and cooler conditions it means that communities can expect to see conducting planned burns well into summer

“Our bushfirerisk reduction program also includes the construction and maintenance of strategic fuel breaks and theuse of mechanical fuel treatments like slashing, mowing, mulching, chaining, and rolling,” she said.

“Victorians looking forwardtogetting outdoors to exploreour state forests and parks after awet spring canalso help manage bushfirerisk by takingcareif lighting campfires.

“Never leave acampfireunattended and always putacampfireout with water.Ifthe ashes arecoolto touch -it’ssafetoleave.”

For further information and guidance visit cfa.vic. gov au

PLAN AHEAD

Knowingyourbushfiresurvival

WRITE down your plan, as you’renot likely to remember it when you’resurrounded by smoke, heat and flames. Any bushfireplan, is better than no plan at all.

For assistance in preparing your plan, visit cfa. vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/before-and-during-a-fire/ your-bushfire-plan

Shareyour plan with family,friends and neighbours so they will know that you areprepared and will know wheretofind you.

Australia’s FireDangerRating System

THE Australian FireDanger Rating System has been improved, with new ratings designed to be easier to understand and provide clear advice about actions to take.

CATASTROPHIC

• If afirestarts and takes hold, lives arelikely to be lost.

• These arethe worstconditions for abushorgrass fire.

Schools, parks/forests and some businesses will close when acatastrophic day is declared.

What should Ido?

FOR your survival, leave bushfirerisk areas. Your life may depend on the decision you make, even before thereisafire.

Stay safe by going to asafer location early in the morning or the night before. Homes cannot withstand fires in these conditions. Youmay notbe able to leave and help may not be available.

Avoid forested areas, thick bush or long, dry grass. Know your trigger to leave.

MAKE adecisionabout:

• when you will leave

• whereyou will go

• how you will get there

• when you will return

• what will you do if you cannot leave.

EXTREME

THESE aredangerous fireconditions, and the safest options is to leave firerisk areas early in the morning or the night before.

Fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous.

Expect extremely hot, dry and very windy conditions.

What should Ido?

TAKE action now to protect your life and property Check your bushfireplanand that your property is fireready.Ifa firestarts, take immediate action. If you and your property arenot prepared to the highest level, go to asafer location well beforethe fireimpacts.

Reconsider travel through bushfirerisk areas.

Leaving bushfirerisk areas early is your safest option.

Be awareoflocal conditions and seek information.

Youcan:

• listen to your emergency broadcasters

• visit the CFAwebsite

• call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.

HIGH

FIRES can be dangerous. What should Ido?

CHECK your fireplan.

There’sheightened risk. Be alert for close fires

Decide what you will do if afirestarts.

If afirestarts, your life and property may be at risk.

The safest option is to avoid bushfirerisk areas.

Be awareoflocal conditions and seek information.

Youcan:

• listen to your emergency broadcasters

• visit cfa.vic.gov.au

• call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.

MODERATE

MOST fires can be controlled.

What should Ido?

• Stay up to date and be ready to act if thereisafire.

• Check your fireplan.

• Monitor conditions.

• Action may be needed.

• Leave if necessary

NO RATING

THE system has an ‘off’ levelfor days whereno proactive action is required by the community

This does not mean that fires cannot happen, but that they arenot likely to move or act in away that threatens the safety of the community.Thisrating is the thin white wedge on the colour wheel sitting under ‘Moderate’.

Further information can be located at www.vic.gov au/plan-and-prepare

WHILE we don't yet know the exact number of babiesborn in Australialast year, we do know the 2022 birth rate was 12.244births per 1000 people,a1.280 per cent decline from 2021. We also know the most popular baby names in Australia in 2022.

According to Parenting Central, Australians have been pretty constant in naming their children in recent years, with very few changes in the top10babynames in previous years. However, thereare some shifting naming patterns in Australia.

In the top spots, Oliver for the boys has been consistently the mostpopular boys' name since 2013, with Isla takingthe lead for the girls this year, knocking Charlotte out of the first position for the first time since 2015.

Joining the top 100 Girl Names Australia 2022 is Zoey at number 100, Heidi at 97, Nora at 96, Indiana at 93,Lyla at 92 and Rileyat86. New additions to the top 100 Boys Names Australia2022are Elias at number 99, Nicholas at 96 and Miles at 89.

Beginning 2023witha three decade year high statistic

By ZOE ASKEW

AUSTRALIAbegins2023with an annual inflation rateof7.3 per cent, a30-year high, drivingup energy costs, road tolls, passport fees, and other bills from January 1, but it's not all bad news.

Cheapermedicines, aboostinwelfarepayments and savings on child care are among the host of changes in the new year.

With 2022 bringing the worstcost-of-living crisisina generationand steep interest rate hikes squeezing millions of budgets, it was a challenging year for many Australian families, and unfortunately, 2023 brings little reprieve.

With inflation drivingupthe cost of living, what does that mean exactlyfor Wellington Shire families?

AGL gas customers in Victoria will see aprice increase on standing offers beginning January 1, while customers on variable rate market contracts will see aprice increase beginning February 1. Gas prices for Energy Australia residential and business consumers on astanding offer tariff will see an average 28 percenthike from January 1, while gas rates will climb by 22.1 per cent for residential Origin gas users and 24.3 per cent for small businesses.

Victorians will also pay extra for tolls this year, with a12centrisefor cars travelling the whole lengthofMelbourne's CityLink taking effect on January 1, on top of increasesfor trips across Bolte Bridge, Tulla and CityLink daily passes.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's passportfees have increased again, with a10-year passport for people16and over now $8 dearer, costing $325, and an extra $9 is added to theprice tag for afive-year passport.

Emergency and replacement passports and priority processing fees have also increased by more than $10.

The cost of astamp,the basic postage rate, also increased from $1.10 to $1.20 on January 3.

Interest rates have risen for the eighth month in a row, pushing thousands of Australian homeowners to strain their household budgets to the breaking point, already stressed by sky-high living costs.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the Reserve Bank's run of successive rate hikes in 2022 would take monthstoimpact the Australian economy fully, estimating the full effects in mid-2023.

"That'swhenthe interest ratehikes are expected to hit the hardest," Dr Chalmers said.

Thankfully Australia's besteconomic pundits havegood newswith Gareth Aird, Head of Australian Economics at CommBank, speculating just one more Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) rate hike in 2023.

"We thinkweare near the endofthe RBA's tightening cycle," he said.

"Expect one further rate hike in Q1, 2023 that will take the cash rate to 3.35 per cent," Mr Aird said.

"From there, we have the RBA on hold as much slower growth in demand is expected to see inflation come down in 2023."

The good news doesn't end there.

Youth Allowance and Austudy Centrelink payments will be indexed, increasingbylittle more than six per cent as of January 2023.

That corresponds to an extra $19 per fortnight for Youth Allowance, between $32.40 and $41.40 for Austudy, and between $27.40 and $40.70 for individuals under 21 on Disability Support Pension.

Totally and Permanently Incapacitated (TPI) Veterans will get an additional$1000 ayear, an increase of $38.46 per fortnight, although AustralianCouncilofSocial ServiceCEO Cassandra Goldie said it's not enough.

"Income support payments were woefully inadequate before the prices of food, rent, medicines, energy,and other essentialsskyrocketed,and they will still be totally insufficient after indexation," Ms Goldie said.

"There are more than three million people living in poverty in Australia, and thisChristmas, one in five of us were struggling to afford food.

"The federal government must take action to change this by lifting income supportpayments to at least $73 aday in the May budget."

The maximum cost of medicine on the PharmaceuticalBenefits Scheme (PBS) is $30, down from $42.50 as of January 1however, subsidised mental healthsessions will be cut in half from 20 to 10 sessions per year.

The federal and state governments will hand out 180,000 fee-free TAFE, vocational education and training places in 2023 for study areas identified as a'national priority', including care, hospitality and tourism, construction, agriculture, sovereign capability, technology and digital.

As of this year, all Victorians are entitled to two years of free Kindergarten programs as part of the $9-billion Early Childhood Education and its Care reform program.

A15-hourper week program will be available to four-year-old children, and afive-to-15-hour program will be available to three-year-old children per week.

Zoe ASKEW

The worst waytobring in the NewYear

By TOMHAYES

NO one likes aqueue.

Even sitting in alinefor more than 10 minutes is enough to do one’s head in.

But imagine sitting in the sweltering 37 degreeheat, testingyourcar’s air conditioningtothe maximum, for almost half of aday.

That’s what manyfestival-goers, including myself, had to endure overthe NewYear break at the BeyondThe Valley Festival at Barunah Plains, west of Geelong.

Followingtwo days of partying, three or four days for some, my group of friends and Iprepared to leave before 9am, in hopes of getting backtothe LatrobeValley around midday.

Boy did we underestimate what was to follow.

After smoothprogressinthe queue forfour or five minutes, our two-man convoy was brought to ahalt, not to be moved for around five hours.

For the first hour or so we were hopeful that the line would slowly make progress so we stayed put in our cars, but once again our hopes were crushed.

We took turns walking to the front of the queueto see what the issue was, and with no context it was difficulttofigure out why it was going nowhere.

Our planned lunch, which was supposed to be at home, was altered, now an $18 pizza in the car after two and ahalfhours of waiting.

Meanwhile, those that left 20 to 30 minutes prior to us were out without any wait, friends of mine wereathome while Iwas seemingly five to six hours away from the relaxation of my own home.

With the sun glaring down on us, afriend and I decided we should make amove.

We saw cars taking different routes, hunting for another exit -evenifthey had to make it themselves.

As we looked around we decided for the time being, it was best to wait it out in the main queue, as we thought that leaving the queue could set us back further.

As the day grew longer, Ipondered on the fact thatIthought I’d sleeping by this point, as deadline for Gippsland Times was thefollowing day, and I was due to come in at 6am.

Ihoped Icould rest on the Sunday before coming into work on the Monday.

Impatience grew and my friend and Idecided to make the move, as we saw more and more people thinking the same.

At around 1.30pm, about five hours in the queue, we darted our car out to the right and stormed through the empty campsites, towards the corner of the property.

Surprisingly, we continued to push forward, and with every gap that we saw, we filled with haste, as our urge to leave grew.

After around 30 minutes of proper progress, we finallyleft Barunah Plains, onto the Hamilton Highway, finally on our way home.

It feels weird to say thatafter five to six hours in the heat of thousands of cars, we were somewhat lucky compared to others.

Some wholined up around the sametimeas myself were trappedfor several morehours, like WIN Gippsland’s Jack Morgan and other

Gippslanders, who spent eight to nine hours in the queue.

At around 6pm, the final cars were extracted fromthe premises, some spendingnine or more hours in their cars.

As reported,some cars stopped working, some people went without water for hours, while others suffered from heatstroke.

It can’t go unnoticed how badly prepared the Sunday was by Beyond The Valley, failing to prepare for around 30,000 people leaving through one exit.

In asocial media post, aBeyond The Valley spokesperson said, “We are experiencing traffic delays getting out of the festival today due to the influx of cars exiting the festival as well as general

holiday traffic on the roads”.

“We sincerely apologise for the delays and inconvenience caused.”

“We understand this process is not pleasantinthe heat. Our priority is to get everyone home safely.”

It’s fairtosay my firstexperience camping at afestival is now soured, but surely you couldn’t expect the same treatment in years to come.

Istill feel this experience alone could stop people from coming back ever again.

If only the festival was still held at Lardner Park, near Warragul, Iwould’ve got adequate sleep before an early start for work.

Ieventually made it to work on Monday morning, even if Iwas running on less sleep than expected.

Nightmare: Multiple lanes of carsattempt to mergeintoone,toexit Beyond The Valley,causing trafficthroughout thecampsite. photograph supplied

Call to cancel duck and quail shooting

REGIONAL Victorians OpposedtoDuckShooting

(RVOTDS)have called for the 2023 native duck and quail shoots to be cancelled basedoncontinued alarming declinesinthe bird populations,lack of breeding, and adverse impacts of hunting on protected speciesand regional communities not yet adequately investigated by the hunting regulator.

RVOTDS provideddetailed examples of those impacts in a20-page submission released on January 5, including tablesobtained through Freedom of Information showing thousands of threatened species killed as collateral damage, tourism operators’ concerns for customer safety and economic loss, and landowners’ fears for their

families, trespass,and the spread of Footand Mouth Disease.

Acopy of the submission was also sent to Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister Tanya Plibersek.

“Mr Andrews needstoknow the impactsto regionalfamilies,” an RVOTDS spokesperson said.

“If he knows and ignores it -that’s on him. Minister Plibersek needs to knowwhatVictoria is doing to our country’s dwindling native birds.”

failed in those functions.

“It has never closed ashooting season despite presiding overthe worst environmental conditions recorded,” RVOTDS stated.

“Previous governments closed shooting seasons in 2003, 2007 and 2008 for less dire circumstances. It refuses to close public waterwaystoshooting when the community have requested it, despite there beingsomany thousands of them open to shooting they can’t possibly be monitored.

Applications

LCHS Community Investment Program

LATROBE Valley community groups and services that are looking to improve food security or community inclusion can apply for grants of $500-$5,000.

Applications for Latrobe Community Health Service’s Community Investment Program are now open, and the organisation is looking to give community-minded projects aleg-up.

“We recognise the best solutions to health and community issues come from within local communities,” Latrobe Community Health Service chief executive Ben Leigh said.

“This community investment program aims to support those ideas, by funding projects that promote community inclusion or food security for those who live, work and play in the Latrobe Valley.”

Applications open in January, with afocus in 2023 on:

The 40th annual aerial survey, one of the largest wildlife surveys in the country and the only objectivelong-term dataset,has againshown game duck populations are declining, in some cases by order of magnitude.

Ninety-six per cent of bird breeding was observed in Ibis, Pelican and Egrets -not game ducks.

“Why does lessthan halfofone per cent of the population need to have access to tens of thousands of public waterways to kill birds for fun?

“Don’t landowners matter?”

Recreationalbirdshooting is banned in NSW, QLD and WA.



Improving access to, and efficiency of, food relief services across Latrobe Valley;

Increasing healthy food preferences and food literacy skills within Latrobe Valley;

Supporting local food production and a sustainable food economy, and;  Improving community engagement.

“We’re thrilled to be able to provide these grants and support our community to build each other up and achieve better health and better lifestyles,” Mr Leigh said.

The Latrobe Community Health Service Community Investment Program will provide access to micro-grants of between $500-$5,000 for community groups and services to undertake projects over 6-12 months.

To learn moreortoapply, visit lchs.com. au/lchs-community-investment-program/ or email communitygrants@lchs.com.au

Government authority has yet to be able to provide an estimateonthe number of publicwaterways open to shooters or confirm whether it is closer to 8000 or 20,000.

Unlikeoutdoorshooting ranges, the vast majority of duck shooting areas are neither signposted as shooting areas nor monitored by any authorities. No health and safety riskassessments have ever been conducted for nearby residents or other recreational users, other than at two wetlands in Mildura in 2019, which were subsequently closed to shooting for safety reasons.

The GMA Act (Game Management Authority) states thatitisafunction of the regulator to promote sustainability in hunting, to research social/economic/environmentalimpacts, and make recommendations to ministers in relation to declaring public land open or closed to hunting and open and closed seasons.

RVOTDS is adamant the regulator has to date,

Rocktots and Craft

Rocktots is amusic-based program forpre-schoolchildren from 18 months to 5years

We runsessionswiththemes that are3weeks long, allowing thechildrentolearn the song, themovement, and theconcept

Children love engaging withmusic andmovement,ithelps them express their feelings and emotions, learn to work in groups, and develop their self-confidenc and imagination.

The benefits of music and movement forchildren under 5years include:

•Their cognitivegrowth:How they think,exploreand work things through.

•Problem-solving skills, likelogic,reasoning, and sequencing.

•Self-expression: How they communicatefeelings, ideas, and thoughts through music, movement,orplaying an instrument

•Physicalskills likehand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and balance.

•Social skills likecooperation, taking turns, and sharing the music experienceoflearning

Hooked On Rock, 2023

When you wereakid, Ibet your parents tried to get you to dancelessons andyou probablyrefused ‘cos it wastoo daggy.Well, most of us who do dance, wish we had started earlier! Don’t wait any longer.Start lessons this year!

Rock and roll dancing is afun, safeway to meetpeople. Youwill be exercising and learning anew skill, without really thinking about it.Thereare rock and roll groups all over the state/country-mo countrytowns have arock and roll club.Thereare plenty in the capital cities too. So no matter whereyou are, you cancatch alesson, attend afestival or go to arock and roll dance.

d o g,

At “Hooked On Rock”, we teach our beginnersasimple sequenceofmoves. Starting with one step! It is easy and each lesson builds on the one before. Onceyou have done the basic course afew times, you will have enoughskill to get out and dancethe night away If you stay alittle longer and join our Intermediateclass, you will have askill forlife. Your confidenceand repertoirewill build. Suddenly dancingatyour work Christmas function, awedding or parties, will not be so daunting.

“Hooked On Rock”rock and roll dancegroup,isbased at Traralgon’sVRI Hall, in Queens Parade and holds lessons each Monday night (except during school holidays and on public holidays) from 7.30pm. Classes arejust $10pp and thereisnoneed to book.Just ROCK up! We also run our own dances and danceworkshops

Our next beginner’s course starts Monday 30th January2023, at 7.30pm. Ring Anne formoreinformation about lessons on: 0409 502 914. Do yourself afavour and getintodancing this year.Welook forwardtomeeting you

Film buffs review the year in cinema

With 2022 done and dusted, Latrobe Valley Express resident film buffs Stefan Bradley and Tom Parry reflect on thecinematicyear that was

TP: What an extraordinary 12 months it has beenfor movies, Stefan. 2022 was aparticularly strong year for cinema, especially considering we’restill coming out of apandemic. Whatdo you reckon?

SB: Yes, it has beenagood year. Ithink SpiderMan: No Way Home was the film that started the pandemic recovery at the beginning of the year it’s technically amid-December2021release, but still made plenty of money over January and February, proving that cinemas were back. This continued with Top Gun: Maverick and Avatar: The Way of Water in particular. Those films reminded us of what we were missing: Going into atheatre, sitting down, not looking at your phone or pressing pause, sitting in front of a big screen, and enjoying an event with friends.

TP: You’venailed it with the term ‘event’ Cinema is not just about seeing amovie -it’s an experience. The feelingyou getsittingina dark room, eagerly anticipating what’s about to appear on screen is afeeling you can’t replicate sitting at home on the couch. It’s something we discovered ourselves when revisiting the first Avatar for its theatricalre-release in September by watching it on DVD instead.

SB: Usually when Iwatch afilm at home it’s not abig deal that’s it on the small screen, but Avatar on DVD absolutely left me wanting for the theatre. Ican’t imagine The Way of Water will feel the same on Disney Plus. Let’s discuss ourTop Five lists now, and it’sgoodtosee we’ve hadsome crossover. Ihave The Batman, which we saw in March, in my honourable mentions, whereas you have it as your top film of 2022.

TP: Indeed Ido. Ireally appreciated its gritty tone crossed with the gothic visuals; the score of Michael Giacchino, which was really powerful; and the mystery element in the screenplay. This might be sacrilegious to say, but Ienjoyed The Batman more than Idid TheDark Knight.

SB: That’s abold statement. It’s very but Idon’t love it as much as you do, because it’sjust hardfor me to be excited by anoth Batman movie.

TP: That’s fair -the character has received areboot three times in the past 20 Anyhow, Top Gun: Maverick is in both Top Fives. This film is the biggest surprise 2022 for me -Idid not anticipate it would as enjoyable, nor as heartfelt as it turned to be. It’s got captivating flying sequences, course, and agreat soundtrack, but Idom the cheese of the original Top Gun.

SB: Ithink it’s acredit to the producers for not only greenlighting abig-bud sequel to adecades-old blockbuster, for utilising real-life military aircraft the flyingsequences. If cinemas disappear, youwould probably have to say goodbye thatkind of film-making, becausemostT shows wouldn’t be able to afford it.

TP: Agreed. One movie we didn’t review was The Bob’s Burgers Movie. I’m an enormous fan of the television series, so seeing the characters on the big screen just had me grinning from ear to ear. It had catchy musical numbers, bright and lively animation; the onlydownside is that the film lost its energyand momentum heading into the final act -itwas building up to be this thrilling climax instead ended up feeling like abit of ab

SB: It did feel like four episodes stuck together, which has been acriticism of The Simpsons Movie and the South Park film, but Ithink those two did abetter job of justifying their own existence on the big screen. Iliked the movie a lot, because Ienjoy the Bob’s Burgers TV show as well, but it does little to alter the course of the show.

TP: Anyhow,we’ve also got Jordan Peele’s Nope on both our lists. It is agenuinely terrifying movie -Inever expected Iwould be afraid of clouds!

SB: It’s definitely great, and another movie that hits differently in acinema. On anothernote, Igave Thor: Love and Thunder agood review when we watched it, and said it was almost as good as Thor: Ragnarok, but that’s not really true the more Ithink about it -it’snowhere near

as rewatchable as Ragnarok. Then there’s Halloween Ends, which was adisappointing end to alegacy horror franchise. My worst experience at the cinema this year was probably watching The Invitation,but to be fair, compared acertain blockbuster we’ll discuss in abit,ithad amuch smaller budget and least tried to do something different.

TP: It had acampy quality to it, but definitely not something Iwant to revisit any time soon.

SB: I’ll say it -most of it was boring, my pick for worstmovie of theyear Jurassic World: Dominion,atextbook cash-grab. And it worked -itmadeabildollars worldwide! It brought back the original cast from Jurassic Park and did absolutely nothing with them. You can do things with aheritage sequel: You can eDominion, or youcan make Maverick. Ithink you’re being overly negativealot to appreciate aboutDominion, now let’s agree to disagree. My least favourite from 2022 is Fantastic Beasts: The of Dumbledore. This takes afranchise had so much promise and just wrings out of it. Almost everyelement of the underwhelming -itwas as if they were on auto-pilot.

You’vesummarised my thoughts on Dominionperfectly there. Here’s some interesting news -Avatar: The Way of Water has overtaken Maverick as the highest-grossing movie released in 2022.Obviously, you didn’t likeThe Way of Water, as you made clearin our recent review, but at least it brought people back to the cinema.

TP: You could say the same about Dominion... SB: Well, yes. At the very least, people are willing to see these big-budget movies in theatres again, and that’s definitely agood thing.

Wasgood: Steven Yeun in ‘Nope’,anotherfavouritefilm of ourcritics imageuniversal pictures/monkeypawproductions

Cha-ching: ‘Avatar: The WayofWater’, the top-grossing pictureof2022,divided our film buffs. image: 20th centurystudios

Back: ‘Top Gun: Maverick’blitzed the box-office and wasa favouritewithour critics image paramount Pictures

Animation: Tomand Stefan both enjoyed ‘TheBob’s BurgersMovie’, released theatricallyinMay image20thcenturystudios

HOROSCOPES

by Joanne Madeline Moore

January 9-January 15,2023

Aries Mighty Mars (your patron planet) turns direct on Friday morning (Sydney time) Which is especially welcome news for Arians who have been tired, sick, injured or frustrated over the last two months when Mars has been retrograde So it’s time to be bold and brave as you take a smart calculated risk and morph into the adventurous Aries you were born to be Nothing ventured, nothing gained as you break down barriers and charge at life with plenty of fiery abandon!

Taurus On Friday morning Mars finally turns direct, which should boost your selfesteem and help a financial matter that has been somewhat stalled But Mercury is still reversing through your adventure education and aspirations zones until January 18 So start planning where you want to travel and what you want to learn in the coming year Don’t beat around the bush, Bulls It’s vital that you focus on turning your goals and dreams into something tangible

Gemini Thank goodness Mars turns d Girect on Friday morning (Sydney time) Which is particularly good news for Geminis who have been tired, sick, injured or frustrated during the last two months when Mars has been reversing through your sign A delayed personal project should gradually improve But there could be misunderstandings involving an intimate relationship a tax issue or a joint venture as Mercury is still in retrograde mode

Cancer Crabs – Mercury is reversing through your relationship zone So are you going through a bumpy patch with a lover, spouse, family member or close friend? The planets encourage you to shine a light on the problem and then find a creative and constructive solution Don’t put your head in the sand and hope the problem will magically disappear! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Martin Luther King Jnr: “The time is always right to do what is right ”

Leo With Mars finally moving forwards on Friday, group activities are set to improve as you all work together to achieve a pleasing outcome A cherished goal or dream could also get the green light But Mercury is still reversing through your daily routine zone (until January 18) so dust down your to-do list and try to be more organised The positive Sun/Neptune link favours a satisfying weekend of volunteer work, creative projects and/or spiritual endeavours

Virgo The good news? After a frustrating coup gle of months, Mars stops reversing through your career zone on Friday So your Virgo motivation should slowly return and stalled work projects should gradually pick up pace The bad news? Your ruler Mercury is still in retrograde mode (until January 18) in your zones of children, friends, lovers, leisure and entertainment Expect some communication chaos, a few romantic hiccups and a couple of social faux pas!

Libra Start planning your next holiday, as Mars moves forwards in your travel zone But resist the urge to be an impulsive Libran on the weekend when you could jump from the frying pan into the fire And watch out for family fiascos with high-spirited relatives or housemates as Mercury continues reversing through your home zone If you re trying to get an ambitious project off the ground, make sure you cover all bases –from family and friends to professional contacts

Scorpio Mars moves forwards on Friday, so don’t w p orry about things you can’t control Be proactive about projects where you can influence the outcome as your motivation and mojo gradually return But are you having problems with a family member, friend or neighbour? The more you communicate and cooperate (with plenty of compassion), the more positive the relationship will be But it’s up to you to swallow your Scorpio pride and make the first move

Sagittarius

Fiery Mars finally turns direcgt on Friday but Mercury is still retrograde until January 18 So, if you blurt out the first thing on your mind, you could spend the rest of the week soothing the egos you ’ ve bruised and patching up the problems you ve created A smart Sagittarian will avoid raising sensitive subjects, strive to be more strategic, and think (carefully) before you open your mouth Remember, your first thought isn’t necessarily the best one

Fun, computer-safety andpizza,The Lab shows theway

DECEMBER 20 was avery important day for a group of young, aspiring tech-heads in Traralgon, as participants of the Traralgon Lab presented their major project to parents, carers and guests.

on some occasions, aheated round of rock, paper, scissors.”

Capricorn

Venus trines Mars so love is in thepair And, on Friday morning, Mars starts moving forwards in your wellbeing zone So the fitter and healthier you are the more you’ll be able to capitalise on romantic opportunities The best aphrodisiacs? Foods like figs avocadoes oysters and chocolate will put some extra pep in your step When it comes to relationships, be proactive Singles – you could meet your soulmate via an introduction from a work colleague

Aquarius Dynamic Mars turns direct on Fridqay, which encourages you to be proactive about a situation involving a child a romantic relationship, a sporting activity or a creative project Then the Venus/Uranus square stirs up your restless Aquarius side on the weekend, when you could surprise others with an unpredictable move that comes out of left field You’re keen to explore and experiment but be careful you don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater!

Pisces There’s no denying that 2023 is full of challenges and uncertainties But don’t let the worries and ‘what-ifs’ drain your life of spontaneity and joy The Sun and Neptune encourage you to take a giant leap of faith into the future, as you think creatively and love compassionately Inspiration for the week is from civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jnr (who was born on January 15, 1929): Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase ”

CopyrightJoanne Madeline Moore 2023

The Lab is asocial and capacity building group for young people (many of whom are on the autism spectrum) based around gaming and computers.

In addition to learning about online safety and appreciating the social aspect of computer use, this chapter of The Lab (run by local support coordination firm, CoAbility) went next level to write, illustrate and designachoose-your-own-adventure style game titled; ‘Dungeon Master Danny &The Quest for The Magic Burrito Sword’.

Throughout Term 4, Lab participants brainstormed ideas in asafeand supportive environment that allowed them to build their creativity and leadership skills. Investigating the basicprinciples of gaming (choice, chance,alliances, consequences, etc) the participants made afun and engagingstory involving local events and businesses.

“It was alot of fun”saidCoAbility’sLab coordinator, Ron D’Arcy.

“The participants were so excited to present their ideas and then put those choices to avote. Sometimes we had to resort to flipping acoin, or

As partofthe adventure,the main character had to purchase pizza fromGoodfellas Pizzain Traralgon,afact that CoAbilityregionalmanager took great pride in mentioning to Goodfellas staff when ordering dinner for The Lab’s final night.

Upon hearing this,Goodfellas then heavily discounted the food, threw in some freebies, and gave asmall Christmas gift for each of the Lab participants.

“The Lab is an important local program,” Mr D’Arcy said.

“I think that internet safety and security is a concern to every parent. Our kids function verymuch within an online space both socially and educationally.

“If your child has adisability, Ithink that fear can be even more.

“Our goal here is to provideguidance, without the fear, and sometimes that’s for the parents and carers too.”

The Traralgon chapter of The Lab operates on Tuesday nights during school terms.

Enquiries can be made directly to CoAbility on 1300 262 245.

By TOMPARRY

BOOKWORMS and bargain hunters are encouraged to visit Sale’s Giant Book Fair, hosted by St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral.

The fundraiser, which began on January 4, is looking to sell over 12,000 books, DVDs and CDs that have been donated by those in the community.

Event coordinator, Christine Morris OAM, says this year’s fair is the biggest yet in terms of both the quantity and quality of the books.

“Certainly in quality… there’s aheck of alot more newer ones,” Ms Morris said.

“You open them and think, ‘They haven’t even been read, they haven’t creased aspine or anything!’”

This differs from years past, where “very wellloved” books have been donated to the fair.

The event has already proven popular, as members of the St Paul’s congregation,the community andtouristsall having visited since Wednesday.

Ms Morris estimates over 300 purchases were made on the first day alone, more money was raised in the first two days than normal within aweek.

Dean of St Paul’s, the Very Reverend Keren

Terpstra, has been impressed with the turnout.

“I thinkit’sbeen phenomenal so far… on Wednesday (January 4), the first day, Icouldn’t believe just the numbers of people,” Dean Terpstra said.

“The funny thing is, you look…and go,‘Yeah, butthere’s still so many books…’

“And yet, you see people walking out the door with boxes full of books!

“I think that’s areally good thing to know that people are supporting us.”

The books are spread across 60 tables and are sortedinto fiction and non-fiction, as well as by genre, author and age demographic.

Most books are for adultreaders, withanumber of children’s titles available as well.

St Paul’s Giant Book Fair is on at the Delbridge Hall,next to St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral on Cunninghame St, Sale until January 24.

Money raised at the fair will go towards asolar power system and general repairs for the cathedral.

Purchases can be made with cash or card.

The fair is open 9am to 4pm Monday through Saturday, and 10.30am to 4pm on Sundays.

Big smiles: Studentsand staff from The Lab photograph supplied

Dealing with depression and anxiety

By Zoe Askew

Content warning: This story discusses matters of mental ill-health.

DEPRESSION sucks. There’s no better way to put it. You might be in adark, cold and lonely place thinking, “I will never feel normal again.”

Or you might be completely apathetic, trudging through the motions of your daily life.

Or you feel great! The world is bright and wonderful; every morning, you’re awakened by wildlife creatures singing to you about how great you are, and rainbows fly out of your backside. Wherever you are on the scale, there are super simple practices you can implement into your everyday life to support apositive mindset.

These five simple yet effective steps might help you maximise your wellbeing, even if you’re abroke-a** university student.

1. Createa sleep schedule,and stick to it

cardiovascular disease, chronic pain and hypothyroidism.

Sleep is important, not just for your mental health and wellbeing but also for your physical health.

Creating asleep schedule and sticking to it as best you can will improve your overall health and support ahealthy, happy mind.

2. Drink …water

OUR bodies are 60 per cent water; 70 per cent of our world is water.

Water is everywhere and we need it, lots of it!

As kids, or even more recently, many of us would roll our eyes when people would harp on about water and how important it is, but seriously, water is very important!

It carries nutrients and oxygen to cells, aids digestion, flushes bacteria from the bladder, normalises blood pressure, prevents constipation (because who likes being constipated), and cushions joints.

One thing about drinking enough water that many people don’t realise is that it helps us maintain good mental health!

Studies conducted across the globe have shown those who drink the recommended amount of water aday (or very close to it) have alower risk of suffering from anxiety and depression.

We all know that not drinking enoughwater leads to dehydration, and there are some unpleasant side effects of that.

There are just as many effects of dehydration on our mental health as there are on our physical health –which makes afair bit of sense.

Dehydration depletes our brain’s energy and impedes serotonin production, acritical neurotransmitter that heavily affects your mood, and an undersupply of serotonin is acharacteristic of depression.

Dehydration also negatively impacts anumber of amino acids, resulting in feelings of sadness, inadequacy, anxiety, irritability and is also atrigger for panic attacks. Now, drink up.

Recharge: Depriving yourself of time to recharge,relax and recuperate can leadtogeneral restlessness,insomnia, lower performance and productivity,difficultyconcentrating, irritability, social withdrawal, and overall feelings of dissatisfaction.

Depriving yourself of time to recharge, relax and recuperate can lead to general restlessness, insomnia, lower performance and productivity, difficulty concentrating, irritability, social withdrawal, and overall feelings of dissatisfaction.

In the long run, denying yourself time to recharge, relax and recuperate is detrimental to your mental health.

Iknowwhat you’re thinking, “I am too busy to take afive day trip to the coast.”

But here is the thing –taking abreak can be as simple as standing up from the computer chair each hour and stretching for five minutes, or taking a10or20-minute walk on your lunchbreak.

You can put aside 30 minutes in the evening to practise meditation or mindfulness or run ahot bath and do some visualisation.

You can even set asideanhour before bed toread abook.

There are lots of options available that you can choose from to slot abreakintoeven the busiest of schedules.

5. Listen toOlivia and let’s get physical

FOR the sake of our mental health, we all need to listen to Australian icon, Oliva Newton John, and get physical.

While getting down and sweaty with it does amazing things for your physical health, there are also many benefits for our mental health.

IT’S no secret that sleep is fundamentally important for our bodies.

When we sleep the body repairs and re-energises itself and fights off disease, our brain processes memories and knowledge, and our minds recharge.

Without sleep, we simply can not function.

While it’s all fun and games staying up past 3am, hitting the town, enjoying abeverage and boogie, or binging that new Netflix show, insufficient sleep significantly impairs our body’s ability to function.

Most people can assume what the following day is like after a lack of sleep.

You feel irritable and lethargic, while you may also experience extreme hunger or feel nauseous.

Prolonged lack of sleep can lead to serious physical health issues ranging from heart disease to diabetes and increases the risk of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and other mental health issues.

On the other hand, oversleeping is just as detrimental to our health as sleep deprivation!

Excessively oversleeping can lead to sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety and physical health issues including

3. Forget the meat pies and eat a carrot

FOOD is our body’s fuel and what we put in our body is important. That lame old saying our parents and grandparents would persistently chant, “you are what you eat,” is pretty damn accurate.

There are so many physical benefits from maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet: strengthening bones, lowering the risk of heart disease and type two diabetes, supporting muscles and maintaining weight to aiding digestive function and boosting immunity.

As kids, the physical benefits of healthy eating are pounded into us, at school, at home, at sports, even on the TV.

However, many people are unaware of food’s significant role in our mental health.

Healthy eating improves mood, helps us think clearly, improves concentration and our attention spanand helps us feel morealert throughout the day.

We get it; healthy eating is important.

Poor diet causes fatigue, impairs decision-making, decreases reaction time, depletes our mood, makes us more irritable, delays brain development, causes nutrient deficiencies, and impairs immune system function.

Not to mention, an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Avoid sugars and highly processed foods, as they cause inflammation throughout our entire body, including the brain, and can exacerbate mental ill health.

4. Have abreak,minus the Kit-Kat

WHETHER you’re pounding the keys on your laptop in the library, sweating bullets as an assignment deadline fast approaches or you’re copping an earful from your boss in the office as apile of paperwork grows taller than the Maffra 5G tower, there is one really easy thing you can do for your mental health.

Take abreak,minus the Kit-Kat; see point 3.

It might sound obvious, but take abreak.

Changing the scene and environmental pace is really good for our mental health.

Taking breaks periodically throughout the day significantly lowers stress levels as it allows our brains to recharge and refocus and can positively boost our overall mood.

People who exercise regularly have better mental health, emotional well-being and lower rates of mental illness.

When we get moving, blood is pumped into our brain, which helps us think more clearly and increases connections between the nerve cells in the brain,but why?

When we exercise, abutt-load of the body’s famous “feel good” chemicals, endorphins and serotonin, are released, evoking feelings of happiness and euphoria.

By increasing our heart rate, wecan reverse stress-induced brain damage, nojoke.

Exercise also helps our stress response.

Noradrenaline is released as aphysiological response when we experience fear and stress and when we exercise, noradrenaline levels are increased.

This means we are actually giving our bodies practice dealing with stress as it basically forces our physiological systems to communicate much more closely than usual.

Put aside 30 minutes aday to move your body, whether you go to the gym, do some yoga, or go for aleisurely stroll.

So, in summary, how do we easily reduce the risk or symptoms of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety and a bunch of other adverse health effects?

We create asleep schedule and stick to it, we drink plenty of water every day, we avoid sugar and processed foods and maintain ahealthy, well-balanced diet, we make time to take a break.

Last but not least, we listen to Olivia Newton John and get physical.

Balance: Whilegetting down and sweatywith it does amazing thingsfor your physical health, there arealsomanybenefits for our mental health photographs supplied

Colour: Healthyeating improvesmood,helps us think clearly, improves concentrationand our attention span and helpsusfeel morealertthroughoutthe day.

H2O: Studies conductedacross the globe have shownthose who drinkthe recommended amountofwater aday (or very close to it)havealower risk of suffering from anxietyand depression

Beauty sleep: Prolonged lackofsleep can lead to serious physicalhealthissues ranging from heartdisease to diabetes and increases therisk of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and other mentalhealth issues

Improved remote coverageamust

Mr Littleproud said extending and reforming the Universal Service Guarantee (USG) to mobile phones from landlines and introducing mandated mobile roaming in 2023 was essential to grow the regions and protect lives.

“In2023, communication has never been more important,”MrLittleproud said.

“It’scriticalasasafety and emergency response, enabling better commerce,business and social interaction in areas of limited network coverage.”

Mr Littleproud said he supported the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC)

Mandating roaming in regional and remote areas, however, would share all the towers between all the telcos, whichinturn, would maintainand improve coverage and competition.

Mr Littleproud said the former Coalition Government funded more than 1200 new or upgraded mobile base stations under their Mobile Phone Black SpotProgram andthere now needsto be regulatory guidelines to make sure they could be used by all Australians, no matter what telco they were with.

Mr Littleproud said if mandated domestic

$270 million in USGfunding -tohave landline customers without phones for months, then services would improve.

“TheUSG isn’t working andneedsreform, which was highlightedinthe Regional Telecommunications Review handed down just before the federal election, yet the new government has made no commitment to implementing its recommendations.

“Telcos should also be forced to maintain mobile towers, not justlandlines.Unfortunately, the October 2022 Budget also revealed cuts to regional

telecommunicationsdespite the urgent needfor improvements.”

The former Coalition Government directed an ACCC inquiry into mobile roaming,tofocus on the costsand access to telecommunications towers and facilities. Mr Littleproudencouragedthose livinginruraland remote locations to complete the online survey.

“I’m urging our regional communities to provide input into the consultation process,openuntil February and prior to thepublication of the Regional Mobile Infrastructure Inquiry draft report in April, 2023.”

The survey can be accessed and completed at https://consultation.accc.gov.au/accc/ regional-mobile-infrastructure-inquiry/

Applications open forAgriFutures Horizon Scholarship

THE AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship, developed in collaboration with several industry sponsors, is an initiative to support the next generation of leaders who will drive the future success of Australia’s rural industries and communities.

This scholarship provides students with a $10,000 bursary over the final two years of their undergraduate degree and opportunities to buildleadership skills and collaborate across rural industries.

Throughout the program, scholars attend an annual four-dayprofessional development workshop,complete two weeks of industry work placement and are exposed to arangeofindustry networks gaining vital skills and insight across traditional and emerging areasofAustralian agriculture.

According to John Harvey, Managing Director of AgriFutures Australia, it is critical to attract and retain askilled and passionate workforce, includingfutureleaders, to establish prosperous and sustainable rural industries.

“Building the capacity, knowledge and skills of Australia’s future workforce is vital to the growth of Australian agriculture and apriority right across our rural industries,” Mr Harvey said.

“This scholarship provides students with a platform for networking, forward-thinking and idea creation needed to forge acareer in the industry.”

The Horizon Scholarship offering has been broadened to include STEM degrees with relevant majorsthat align with agriculture This shift recognises the importance of amultidisciplinary approach to supportthe future prosperity of rural industries.

“The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship attracts

students who are diverse, passionate and progressive,with the capabilitytobefuture leaders of the Australianagricultural workforce,” Mr Harvey said.

“Providing these students with the opportunity to come together in the same room creates a platform for collaboration which is invaluable

for both the scholars and rural industries more broadly.

“I thank all of the industry sponsorswho make this possible and share our commitment to developing our future leaders.”

To be eligible for the 2023 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship, students must be an Australian

citizen or permanent resident, be studying an undergraduate degree at an Australian university and be entering the final two years of their degree in 2023.

Eligible degrees include but are not limited to traditional agriculture degrees such as rural science, animal science and agribusiness, along with Science, Technology, Engineering or Maths (STEM) degreeswithmajor studies and subject selections relevant to, and aligned with, agriculture.

Students passionate about Australian agriculture’s future are encouraged to apply.

Scholarship recipients will be selected based on their commitment to acareer in agriculture, as well as their leadership potential and tertiary academic record to date.

To apply for the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship or more information, visit www. agrifutures.com.au/horizon; applications close Friday, January 13, 2023, at 5pm.

Shortlisted applicants will be required to participate in atelephone interviewin February 2023, and scholarship recipients will be announced in April 2023.

The sponsors of the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program include Australian Eggs, Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), Co-operative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA), DairyAustralia, Grains Research and Development Corporation(GRDC), Meat &Livestock Australia (MLA), Hort Innovation, Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC),FMC Australasia, AgriProve,Kalyx and the AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses, Rice, Honeybee and Pollination, AgrifoodInnovation and Emerging IndustriesPrograms.

NATIONALS leader, David Littleproud, is calling for government interventiontoensure Australians in regional and remote areas have adequatemobile coverage.

recent decision to rule out a10-year mobile infrastructure sharing deal with Telstra and TPG Telecom because morethan700 towers would have been lost.

roaming in rural areas was introduced in concert with reforms to the USG that extended to mobile serviceand removedthe averagingprovisions that currently allows Telstra -the recipient of the

Better coverage: Nationals leader David Littleproud wants to see improvement in telecommunication service in remote areas

photograph supplied

Future leaders: AgriFuturesHorizon Scholarsatthe annual AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Workshop photograph supplied

TRIBUTE

LONG-TIME and well-known Traralgon resident Fay Langstaff passed away recently Ms Langstaff died on December 30, 2022 Edna Fay Pickering was the second daughter of Henry and Mavis Pickering, born on December 24, 1926

She was born at home in Heyfield and was the second of seven children Sister to Hilda, Kevin, Gladys, Tom, Hazel and Walter Her mother died when she was just nine-years-old

The years that Fay grew up included the Great Depression and World War 2, so times were tough This was compounded by the loss of her mother at such a young age and the happenings of a difficult family life at times Fay was a very independent person, while at the same time being very family-orientated She would challenge the system in her own ways Gladys, her only surviving sibling, tells us Fay was the first woman to wear a bikini in Traralgon, and that she could ride her bike and knit at the same time

Another time, she rode her bike down to the highway dressed in her shorts and handkerchief top (which was riske for that day) to wave to the Army as they were passing through town Fay also loved her pet ferrets and to go rabbiting with her friend Jeannie Arklay

She worked form a young age at boarding houses and during the war at the paper mill Fay was very community orientated, involved in the tennis clubs at Cumberland Park and then the Traralgon Tennis Association Fay played twice midweek, then on Saturdays, while during the week after school teaching young children the basics of the game She followed the football around the town even when her grandchildren and great grandchildren played Cumberland Park, Pax Hill, Police Boys to name a few As time went on instead of barracking, which she did very well, she went on to do first aid and training for the junior clubs, something she loved.

Many amorning was spent at Agnes Brereton Park watching the girls play hockey, and then in the afternoon whenthey playedsenior hockey. In those days the hockey

fields were full of junior and senior teams Fay even had a return to netball in later years with a group of other ladies - some thought they were really too old to be playing but they loved it.

Her churchatStJames was importanttoher throughout her life. In early

years, she took Sunday and was also in the ch CWA was part of her more than 60 years, a St Johns Ambulance a Auxiliary for the Insti the Blind

She would take her ch and then her grandchi on walks/adventures to Horse Canyon, where ran around and slid up down the canyon walls Bert Dean together w Fay went to a coun meeting in 1987 to get reserve recognised, as th were plans to turn some it into housing lots Fay was involved establishing it to wha it is today, known a the Traralgon Railway Reservoir Conservation Reserve - a great place for people to go and walk about She was a committee member and worked at working beesall the way up until last year.

For her contribution to the community Faywas awardded d e following: Life overnorship of e Gippsland ase Hospital in lein1948;

Life membership of umberland Park Tenn raralgon Tennis Club

Life membership of the Pax Hill Football lub; ;  Citizen of the Year nomination for atrobe City Council 2010;  Awarded Australia Day Citizen Award y the City of Traralgon in 1984 for service o the community;  CWA Quiet Achiever Award in 1998 and then 60 years’ service recognition;  St Johns Ambulance Service recognition and The Order of St John Priory Award which was presented at Government House, andd;  Community Visitors Scheme -20year service certificate for visiting folk in nursing homes and hospital.

Shemarried herhusband Jack in 1951 who had served in WW2.

Over the next 18 years from 1952 they had eightchildren: Gail, John,Glenn, Cindy, Neil, Leon, Kerrieand Leesa. Over the yearsthe family has grown to closeon100 Manyofher children’s friends, Fay held dear to her and were abig part of her life.

At home Fay would be cooking, stewing, preserving in the vacola, doing her garden which she loved, and running after her eight children, 22 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren -she never stopped.

Over the last two years Fay was cared for in her home by family.

Despite herslow, physicaldeterioration, it was only in the lastfivedays of herlife that her health truly deteriorated.

In the last week of her life, Fay was cared for at home by all her children, who were with her when shepassedaway.

Fay will be remembered for her smile, her wit, her warmth and her service to the Traralgon community for many many years.

To some she has been described as alegend of Traralgon, and an icon.

To her family she was atreasure, awonderful mother, grandmotherand great-grandmother.

Memories: Faywith Betty Dove at RailwayReserve

Kick Horse Canyon.

Vale: Tributes have flown for well-known and respected Traralgon resident Fay Langstaff photographs contributed

McENROE Nine, Sunday, 8p

The Australian tenni event of the year th Australian Open is s to capture the natio attention from tomo this gripping documentary is the perfect apéritif before the oncourt action As the original bad boy of the sport controversial American player John McEnroe (pictured) enthralled with his finesse but divided fans with his epic outbursts and explosive temper In this moody and insightful exploration director Barney Douglas reveals an entirely different side to McEnroe as the champion player offers frank and remarkable insights Also featuring his wife, Patty Smyth, it s the foul-mouthed, curly haired tennis star as you ’ ve never seen him before

Wednesday,January 11

ABCTV (2)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Monty Don’s American Gardens. (R) 11.00 Rick Stein’s Road To Mexico. (Final,R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Stateless. (Malsv, R) 1.55 Agatha Raisin. (Final, PG, R) 2.45 Back Roads. (R)

3.10 Gardening Australia. (R)

4.10 Long Lost Family (PG,R)

5.00 Australian Story. (R)

5.30 HardQuiz. (PG, R)

SBS (3)

6.00 DW English News. 6.30 Al JazeeraNews. 7.00 BBC News At Six.

7.30 France 24 English News. 8.00 DD India Prime Time News. 9.00 Peer To Peer (PG) 10.00 Legacy List. (PG, R) 11.00 Tennis. Kooyong Classic. Day2

5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 9. Highlights.

This high-octane crime drama follows ateam of eliteoperatives as they put their lives on the line to neutralise global threats and protect the United States. In tonight’s first episode, “Secrets As Weapons”,the team investigateswhen abillionaire’s cryptocurrency wallet is hijacked en route to asafety vault in Switzerland. Then, in “American Optimism”,the crew look into the murky case of a US citizeninhot waterinMadrid. He’s proclaiming his

4.30 Think Tank.(PG, R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Britain’sBeautifulRivers: Clyde. (PGa, R) Part 3of4 8.30 Britain’s Secret Islands. (R)Part 3of4 9.25 TokyoVice (MA15+) AYakuza peace summit is called. 10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 Dignity. (Mav) 12.00 TheNight Manager (MA15+av, R) 12.55 ShadowLines. (Malv,R) 3.25 The Late Session. (Ml, R) 4.25 Going Places With Ernie Dingo.(R) 4.55 Destination Flavour:Japan Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

BEST

OF BRITAIN WITH AINSLEYAND GRACE SBS Food, Tuesday, 8.30pm

UNDER COVER ABC TV,Monday, 8.30pm

Thestatistics aredevastating: women over55are thefastest growing group of homeless people in Australia, with morethan 250,000 women at risk of homelessness. This emotional documentaryfrom director Sue Thomson (TheComing BackOutBallMovie)reveals the faces behind these alarming numbers. Narrated by homegrown HollywoodstarMargotRobbie,it’s acompelling,heartbreaking insight into the often secret lives of adiverse group of 10 Australian women, includingCheryl and Linda (both pictured). Shatteringmyths and misconceptions of homelessness, it opens viewers’ eyes to life’s complicationsand how society has let these women down.

SEVEN (7,6)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The MorningShow Summer Series.(PG) 11.30 SevenMorning News. 12.00 MOVIE: NancyDrewAnd The Hidden Staircase. (2019,PGav, R) 2.00 Australia’sDeadliest (PGa, R) 2.30 Beach Cops. (PGa, R) 3.00 TheChase. (R) 4.00 SevenNews At 4. 5.00 TheChaseAustralia. (R)

TEN (10, 5) NINE (9,8)

6.00 Today 9.00 Today ExtraSummer (PG) 11.30 Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: UndercoverBlues. (1993,PGlsv,R)Dennis Quaid, Kathleen Turner,StanleyTucci. 1.50 Talking Honey.(PG) 2.00 Pointless. (PG,R) 3.00 Tipping Point (PG, R) 4.00 Afternoon News

4.30[VIC]MillionaireHotSeat.(R) 5.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (R) 5.30[VIC]WINNews.

6.30 TheProject Special guest is Sam Smith. 7.30 TheBachelors Australia. (PGals) Three bachelors, FelixVon Hofe,Thomas Malucelli and Jed McIntosh, search for love 9.10 Fire Country. (Premiere, PGav) Seeking redemption and areduced prison sentence,aconvict joins a regional firefighting program. 10.10 Bull. (Mv,R)Anemergency room doctor is sued. 12.00 TheProject (R) 1.00 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. NITV (34)

6.00 The Talk.(PGa) 7.00 Farm To Fork. (PG, R) 7.30 GCBC. (R) 8.00 Everyday GourmetWith Justine Schofield.(R) 8.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R) 9.00 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 9.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. (PG, R) 10.00 Studio10. (PG) 12.00 10 News First: Midday. 1.00 Dr Phil.(PGa, R) 2.00 The Bachelors Australia. (PGls, R) 3.30 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 4.00 Farm To Fork. 4.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. (PG) 5.00 10 News First

Bureau. (2011,M)

Jumper.(2008 M)

Raymond.

TheGuide MEL/VIC The Latrobe Valley Express, TV Guide Wednesday, 11 January, 2023 —Page 23

PICK OF THE WEEK

Theworld–well, the coastofBritain –ischefsAinsleyHarriottand Grace Dent’s oyster in this fresh, seaside series. Theintrepid foodies with a taste forfun check out some of the mostbeautifulholidayspotsalong with their delicious fare,with Devon on tonight’sitinerary. It’snowonder the duo can’t stop smiling; not long into the episode,they gettodevour hand-dived scallops. They also admirea hotel on its very own island and tuck into mushypea fritters in an idyllic spot on theExe estuary. Animal lovers rest assured: when Ainsley andGrace meetafamilyofotters they befriend them, rather than eat them. It’s hungry-making and heartwarming fare

Thursday, January 12

ABC (2)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Back Roads. (PG, R) 10.30

GardeningAustralia Presents.(R) 10.55 The

Great Australian Bee Challenge. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Stateless. (Final, Malsv, R) 1.55 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R) 3.15 GardeningAustralia. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family (PG, R) 5.00 Australian Story.(R) 5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 Old People’s Home

For4 Year Olds (R)

7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 7.30 Presented by SarahFerguson.

8.00 YouCan’t AskThat:Chinese Australians (Ma, R) ChineseAustralians share their stories.

8.30 Grand Designs: House Of TheYear: Down To Earth. (R) Part 3of4.Kevin McCloud visits five homescompeting fora placeon the House of theYear shortlist.

9.20 ALifeInTen Pictures: John Lennon. (PG, R) Takesa look at JohnLennon’s life

10.15 Movin’ToThe Country. (R) 10.45 ABCLateNews.

11.00 Love On TheSpectrum. (PG, R)

11.55 TopOfThe Lake: China Girl. (MA15+lsv, R) 1.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 One Plus One. (R) 4.30 Think Tank. (R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

SBS (3)

6.00 DW EnglishNews. 6.30 Al Jazeera News. 7.00 BBC News At Six.

7.30 France 24 English News

8.00 DD India Prime Time News. 9.00 Peer To Peer (PG) 10.00 Legacy List. (R) 11.00 Tennis. Kooyong Classic.Day 3. 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage10. Highlights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

(R) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.35 World’s MostScenic Railway Journeys. (PG,R) Highlights of coastal rail routes.

8.30 OurLaw (M) Afterthe firstfew weeks on the job,the cadets go back to the academy for their scheduled fitnesstest.

9.40 WarOfThe Worlds. (MA15+av)

Bill uncovers more of Catherine’s discoveries and cracks the deadly plans of their alien adversaries.

10.35 SBS World NewsLate.

11.05 L’Opera. (Mal) Zoegets an unpleasant surprise.

11.55 An OrdinaryWoman. (Mals, R)

3.55 FilthyRich And Homeless. (Mal, R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World EnglishNewsMorning 5.30

ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SEVEN (7,6)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 TheMorning Show Summer Series. (PG) 11.30 SevenMorning News. 12.00 MOVIE: HarryAnd Meghan: Becoming Royal. (2019,PGa, R) Charles Shaughnessy, Clare Filipow,James Dreyfus. 2.00 MotorbikeCops. (PG, R) 2.30 Beach Cops. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 SevenNews At 4. 5.00 TheChase Australia. (R)

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home And Away (PGav) Mackenzie’s nursery masterpiece is revealed. Bree stands her ground. Remi’sreunion is bittersweet.

7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League Game 38.Melbourne Stars v Adelaide Strikers. From the MCG.

11.00 Ambulance: Code Red. (Ma, R) Follows the work of an ambulance service, giving an insight into the life and death incidents they face.

12.00 MOVIE: Ice. (1998,Mv, R) Aftera sudden iceage strikes the globe, agroup of people trytoflee afrozenLos Angeles. Grant Show,Eva La Rue, Audie England [VIC]HomeShopping.

4.00 NBCToday News and current affairs.

5.00 SevenEarly News. 5.30 Sunrise. News, sportand weather.

TEN (10, 5) NINE (9, 8)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today ExtraSummer (PG) 11.30 MorningNews. 12.00 MOVIE: AVineyard Romance. (2021, PGa, R) Rebecca Olson, Marcus Rosner 1.50 Talking Honey (PGa) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 Afternoon News. 4.30[VIC]MillionaireHotSeat.(R) 5.00 Millionaire HotSeat. (R) 5.30[VIC]WINNews.

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Great Getaways (PG) Alook at spendingthe night at Taronga Zoo.

8.30 Paramedics. (Ml, R) Aflight paramedic joins arescue mission in treacherous conditions near Victoria’s TwelveApostles.

9.30 Casualty 24/7 (Mm) An 81-year-old is being blue lighted in, afterfalling over and landing badly on one of his artificial hips.

10.30 Emergency Call. (Ma)

11.20 Pure Genius (Mm)

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG,R) 1.00 Our State On APlate. (PG,R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair.(R) 5.00 News Early Edition.

5.30 Today

6.00 The Talk.(PGa) 7.00 Farm To Fork. (PG, R) 7.30 GCBC. (R) 8.00 EverydayGourmet (R) 8.30 Ent. Tonight 9.00 Judge Judy.(PG, R) 9.30 Bold. (PG, R) 10.00 Studio 10.(PG) 12.00 10 News First: Midday 1.00 Dr Phil. (PGad, R) 2.00 The Bachelors Aust. (PGals, R) 3.40 Entertainment Tonight. 4.00 Farm To Fork. 4.30 The Bold And TheBeautiful. (PG) 5.00 10 News First.

6.30 TheProject Alook at the day’snews and events.

7.30 Ambulance Australia. (Maln, R) Apatient suffers from potentially deadly sepsis.

8.30 Law&Order: SVU. (Return, Mav) The teamjoins forces with DetectiveElliot Stabler to huntdown an evil mastermind

9.30 TheMurder Of Grace Millane (M) Takesa look at the 2018 murder of Grace Millane, aBritish backpacker who went missingwhile on aTinder date 10.30 NCIS: LosAngeles. (Mv, R) The NCIS team searches for asuspect. 11.30 TheProject (R) 12.30 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

ABC COMEDY (22)

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.30pm Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI 8.30 Penn &Teller: Fool Us. 9.15 Gruen. 9.50 Shaun Micallef’s MAD AS HELL 10.25 Doctor Who. 11.10 Would ILie To You? 11.40 LiveAtThe Apollo 12.25am Louis Theroux: Altered States. 1.30 Friday Night Dinner 1.55 Everything’sGonnaBeOkay 2.15 ABC News Update. 2.20 Close. 5.05 Tik Tak. 5.10 Clangers. 5.20 Buddi. 5.25 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 2pm ShortlandSt. 2.30 TheCook Up 3.00 Jarjums. 3.40 Wolf Joe 3.55 Tales Of The Moana. 4.00 Thalu. 4.30 Spartakus And The SunBeneath The Sea 5.00 Our Stories. 5.30 The77Percent. 6.00 Bamay. 6.30 News. 6.40 UndiscoveredVistas. 7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo 8.00 Strait To The Plate. 8.30 Our Law. 9.40 No OrdinaryB ack 9.50 MOVIE: YolnguBoy.(2001, M) 11.25 Late Programs.

6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon Counter Space. 1.30 The Story Of 2.00 Bamay 2.20 Life After People. 3.15 WorldWatch. 5.15 Takeshi’sCastle. 5.45 JoyOfPainting 6.15 Forged In Fire 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Curse Of OakIsland 10.10 LifeAfter Prison. 11.05 The UnXplained. 11.55 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Sissi. (1955,German) 9.30 Ernest &Celestine.(2012, PG) 11.00 Gone AreThe Days.(2018,M) 12.55pm Monty Python’s Life Of Brian. (1979, M) 2.35 The MovieShow. 3.05 Fellinopolis. (2020, PG, Italian) 4.35 Sheep And Wolves. (2016,PG) 6.10 Love And Friendship.(2016 PG) 7.50 TheFace Of Love.(2013,M) 9.30 The English Patient. (1996) 12.30am Late Programs.

7TWO (72, 62)

6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Million Dollar Minute. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Emmerdale 12.30 Coronation Street. 1.00 Escape To The Country 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Million Dollar Minute. 3.30 Medical Emergency. 4.00 SurfPatrol. 4.30 BetterHomes. 5.30 Escape To The Country 6.30 BargainHunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 9.30 Kavanagh QC. 11.15 Late Programs.

7MATE (73,64)

6am Morning Programs. 1pm WildTransport. 2.00 Down East Dickering. 3.00 Billy The Exterminator 3.30 Scrap Kings. 4.30 Hustle&Tow 5.30 American Restoration. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 38.Melbourne Stars vAdelaide Strikers. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 8.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Four.(2015, M) 10.35 MOVIE: 10 Cloverfield Lane. (2016,M) 12.45am Late Programs.

9GEM (92,81)

6am TV Shop: Home Shopping. 7.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. 7.30 TV Shop: HomeShopping. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 Tennis. Adelaide International. Tournament 2. Day4.Day session. 6.30pm AustralianOpen Tennis Draw 7.00 Tennis. Adelaide International. Tournament 2. Day 4. Night session. 11.00 New Amsterdam. Midnight House 1.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping 4.30 JoyceMeyer 5.00 TV Shop

9GO! (93, 82)

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Filthy House SOS. 1.00 America’s TopDog. 2.00 Full House 3.00 TheNanny 3.30 3rdRock. 4.00 That ’70s Show 4.30 Raymond 5.30 The Nanny 6.00 3rd Rock 6.30 That ’70s Show 7.00 Young Sheldon 7.30 MOVIE: Outbreak. (1995,M) 10.00 MOVIE: Ronin. (1998,M) 12.30am Dash Dolls. 1.30 Kardashians. 2.30 Full House 3.30 Ninjago 4.00 TV Shop 5.00 Late Programs.

6am The LateShow With Stephen Colbert 7.00 Friends. 8.00 Becker 9.00 The KingOfQueens 10.00 Friends. 10.30

10 PEACH (11, 52)

TheMiddle. Noon TheBig Bang Theory 1.00 Frasier 2.00 Becker 3.00 The King Of Queens. 4.00 Becker 5.00 Frasier 6.00 Friends. 8.00 TheBig BangTheory. 9.30 Seinfeld. 11.00 Frasier Midnight Shopping. 1.30 Stephen Colbert. 2.30 Late Programs.

6am Home Shopping 8.00 Healthy HomesAustralia 8.30 RoadsLess Travelled. 9.00 iFish. 9.30 Reel Action. 10.00 The Love Boat 11.00 Star Trek:The Next Generation. Noon MacGyver. 2.00 Diagnosis Murder. 3.00 Bondi Rescue. 3.30 The Love Boat 4.30 Star Trek: The Next Generation. 5.30 JAG 6.30 Scorpion 7.30 Bull. 8.30 NCIS. 9.30 NCIS: NewOrleans. 10.30 SEAL Team. 11.30 Late Programs.

10 BOLD (12, 53)

Takesalook

Mastermind Australia. (R)

SBS WorldNews

Engineering Reborn: 747 Jumbo Jet,Marcel Hotel,National Gallery Of Singapore. (PG) Alook at aproject involving an old747 8.30 Inside Central Station: 3801Launch. (PGal, R) Goes behind thescenesofSydney Train’s ongoingbattle againstgraffiti. 9.25 HowToBuild ANuclear Power Station (R) Part 1of2.Follows the constructionworkers at Hinkley PointC Britain’s newest nuclear power station. 10.35 SBS WorldNewsLate. 11.05 Gomorrah. (Malv,R) 1.50 The Kimberley Cruise: TheFullJourney (a, R) 5.00 NHK World EnglishNewsMorning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe WorldTonight.

Series.(PG) 11.30 SevenMorning

12.00

Kissin’Cousins. (1964

R) Elvis Presley,Glenda Farrell, Arthur O’Connell. 2.00 Australia’s Deadliest. (R)

Cops (R)

(R)

At 4.

TheChase Australia. (R)

6.00 Nine News. 7.00 ACurrentAffair 7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In TheZoo: Halloween. (PG) Zoo’s staff x-rayanelephant’sfeet. 8.30 MOVIE: Jack Reacher (2012, Mlv,R) Aformer US Army militarypolice officerinvestigates theshooting of fiveinnocent civilians by asniper.Tom Cruise, RosamundPike, Jai Courtney 11.00 Council Of Dads. (PGa) 11.50 Tipping Point. (PG,R) 12.40 It’s All Greek To

TheProject Special guest is Cosentino

TheGraham Norton Show. (R) Graham Norton is joined on the red couch by actors Jamie Dornan and James Norton.

Stand-up comedy performances from Harley Breen, Cassie Workman and BevKillick.

JustFor Laughs Uncut (MA15+ls, R) Hosted by Nikki Osborne.

Steph Tisdell:Identity Steft. (MA15+l, R) Aperformance by Steph Tisdell

TheProject (R) Special guest is Cosentino

7MATE (73,64)

11.30 Alphas. (Premiere) 12.30am In Ice Cold Blood. 2.30 Full House 3.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Blokesworld. 10.30 American Pickers. 11.30 Pawn Stars. 1pm Wild Transport. 2.00 Down East Dickering. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Scrap Kings. 4.30 Hustle&Tow 5.30 American Restoration. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Four.(2005,PG) 9.40

Page 24 —The Latrobe Valley Express, TV Guide Wednesday, 11 January, 2023 Mobility And More Moe www.mobilityandmore.com.au 03 5127 2099 Open Saturdays from 9till midday 32 GEORGE ST. MOE, VIC. 3825

ABCTV (2)

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 WeekendBreakfast. 9.00 Rage.(PG) 12.00 ABCNewsAtNoon.

12.30 Endeavour (Mav,R)

2.00 Midsomer Murders. (PG, R) 3.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R)

4.30 Going Country. (PG,R)Part 1of2

5.25 Australia’s Favourite Tree. (R) Part 1of2

6.30 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat. (Final, R) NigellaLawson preparesmac ‘n’cheese.

7.00 ABCNews. Takesalook at today’stop stories.

7.30 Call TheMidwife. (PGa)Trixie andFrances attend thecytology clinic

8.30 MidsomerMurders. (Mv, R) Barnabyand Winter investigate the death of thefounder of aclubfor recovering heart bypass patients the day after inducting anew member who wascontroversially acquitted of murder severalyears previously 10.00 Unforgotten. (Malv,R) Sunny and Cassie discovera surprising connection

10.50 ALifeInTen Pictures: FreddieMercury. (Mln, R) Alook at Freddie Mercury’slife. 11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

SBS (3)

6.00 MorningPrograms. 10.05 Love Your Garden. (R) 11.00 Paul O’Grady:For The Love Of Dogs. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch.

1.00 Surf Life Saving. Nutri-Grain IronMan and IronWoman Series. Round3 3.00 Figure Skating. ISUGrand Prix. NHKTrophy Highlights. 4.00 Europe’s Greatest Train Journeys. (PG) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally.Stage 12. Highlights.

6.00 Great British Railway Journeys: TauntonToSalisburyPlain. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 ChrisTarrant’s Extreme Railway Journeys: LastTrain To Transylvania. (PGav, R) Part 1of4

8.30 Legendary Castles: Neuschwanstein. (PGa, R) Part 1 of 2. Takesalookatthe construction of two mountain-top castles, including Neuschwanstein.

9.30 Britain By Beach (PG, R) Part 1of4

10.25 GreatEscapesWith Morgan Freeman. (Mav, R)

11.15 MOVIE: TheKeeper. (2018,Malv,R)DavidKross

1.25 TheChocolate Factory:InsideCadbury Australia. (R) 4.35 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English NewsMorning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 NBCToday. [VIC]HomeShopping. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 TheMorning Show SummerSeries. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. GoldCoast Magic Millions Raceday. 5.30 Border Security:Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Abackpack catches the attention of officers.

7.30 MOVIE: Dumbo (2019, PGa) Ayoung elephant living in arundown circus run by amean-spirited ring master discovers he can use his giant ears to fly.Colin Farrell, Danny DeVito.

9.50 MOVIE: TheLongKissGoodnight (1996,MA15+v,R)A suburban housewife suffering amnesia begins to suspect she may havebeen asecretagent. Geena Davis, Samuel LJackson. 12.20 TheGoodDoctor (PGa, R) 12.30[VIC]HomeShopping. 1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 GetClever. (R) 4.30 Get Arty (R) 5.00 My Greek Odyssey (PG, R)

6.00 DriveTV. (R) 6.30 ACurrent Affair (R) 7.00 WeekendToday 10.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 12.00 Taronga:Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PG, R) 1.00 Explore. (R) 1.10 MOVIE: Mr Holland’sOpus. (1995,PGl, R) RichardDreyfuss, Glenne Headly,Jay Thomas. 4.00 BondiVet.(PGm) 5.00 News: First At Five. 5.30 CountryHouse Hunters Australia. (R)

6.00 Nine News Saturday.

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 MOVIE: Miss Congeniality 2: Armed AndFabulous. (2005,Mv, R) Against orders, an FBI agent goes undercovertorescueMissUSA and the pageant MC after they are kidnapped. SandraBullock, Regina King.

9.50 MOVIE: TwoWeeks Notice. (2002, PGsl, R) Alawyerdecides she has had enough of her troublesome boss and quits her job.Hugh Grant, SandraBullock.

11.50 MOVIE: Unsane. (2018, MA15+av) Claire Foy. 1.35 Outdoors Indoors.

2.00 TheIncredibleJourney Presents (PGa) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30Helping Hands. (PG)

6am Morning Programs. 7.30 EscapeFishing (R) 8.00 Exploring Off The Grid. (PGl, R)

8.30 What’sUpDown Under.(PG, R) 9.00 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 9.30 GCBC.(R) 10.00 St10.(PG) 12.00 Cook It With Luke.(R) 12.30 Well Traveller.(PGa, R) 1.00 Offroad Adv (R) 2.00 All 4Adventure. (PGl, R) 3.00 4x4 Adventures. (R) 4.00 Farm To Fork. (R) 4.30 Taste Of Aust. (R) 5.00 News.

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PG, R) Aman is reported to havefallen fromcliffs.

6.30 Jamie Oliver: Together Jamie Oliver prepares afeast.

7.30 NCIS: LosAngeles. (Mv) After an architect duo are kidnapped, the NCIS team mounts asearch to bring them home.

8.30 FBI: International. (Mv) The International Fly Team investigates when the hijacking of abillionaire’s cryptocurrency wallets en route to asafety vault in Switzerland leaves the escort, an American, shot dead in the Alps.

10.30 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mav,R) Commander Chase is abducted. 11.30 NCIS. (Mv,R)NCIS investigates the deathofa Navyreservist 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30[VIC]Infomercials.(PG) 4.00[VIC]HomeShopping.(R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

ABC TV PLUS (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.30pm Spicks And Specks. 7.30 Whose Line Is It Anyway? 8.15 Live At The Apollo 9.00 MelbourneComedy FestivalAllstars Supershow. 10.05 TheSet. 10.40 Doctor Who 11.35 Would ILie To You? 12.05am Staged. (Final) 12.30 Bliss. 12.50 Wreck. 1.40 Fleabag. 2.00 QI. 2.35 ABC News Update. 2.40 Close. 5.05 TikTak. 5.10 Clangers. 5.20 Buddi. 5.25 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 12.55pm Sing About This Country. 2.55 Milpirri: Winds Of Change. 3.55 My Survival As An Aboriginal. 4.50 Intune 08:The FloodConcert. 5.50 Going Native 6.20 Kriol Kitchen. 6.50 News. 7.00 Family Rules. 7.30 TheBeaver Whisperers. 8.30 MOVIE: The Fourth Kind. (2009,M) 10.10 Songlines On Screen. 10.30 NITVOnThe Road:Best Of Barunga Midnight Late Programs.

Sunday, January15

6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon

VICELAND (31)

DaveGorman: Terms AndConditions Apply 12.55 Wellington Paranormal. 1.25 American Song Contest. 3.05 WorldWatch. 5.05 Mastermind Aust. 5.35 Dynamo: Revealed. 6.30 Adam Eats The 80s. 7.35 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 TheLast Overland: SingaporeToLondon. 9.30 Aircraft Crash Experts. 10.30 High Society 11.30 Late Programs.

WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Ernest &Celestine. Continued. (2012, PG) 6.40 The Last Wave.(1977,PG) 8.40 LittleNicolas.(2009,PG, French) 10.20 The English Patient. (1996) 1.20pm Joshy.(2016, M) 3.00 Love And Friendship. (2016, PG) 4.40 The Finishers. (2013, PG,French) 6.20 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993,PG) 8.30 You Were NeverReally Here. (2017) 10.10 ADangerous Method. (2011, MA15+) 12.05am Late Programs.

7TWO (72, 62)

6am Shopping. 8.30 Travel Oz. 10.00 Winners. 11.00 Weekender 11.30 Better Homes. 12.30pm Australia’s Big Backyards. 1.30 Escape To The Country 2.30 Bargain Hunt. 3.30 Escape To The Country. 5.30 HorseRacing. Gold Coast Magic Millions Raceday 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country 9.30 Escape To The Perfect Town. 10.30 PenelopeKeith’s Hidden Villages. 11.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (73,64)

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Australia ReDiscovered. 2.00 Motor Racing. NightThunder. BoxingDay H’lights. 3.00 RidesDown Under: Workshop Wars. 4.00 American Pickers. 5.00 Leepu And Pitbull. 6.00 Last CarGarage. 6.30 SecretsOf The Supercars. 7.30 Air Crash Investigation. 9.30 Mighty Trains. 10.30 Mighty Ships 11.30 Late Programs.

9GEM (92,81)

6am The LateShow

6am Morning Programs. 10.30 Rainbow Country. 11.00 Skippy 11.30 Seaway 12.30pm MOVIE: SeaDevils. (1953) 2.30 Tennis. Adelaide International. Tournament 2. Day 6. Twilight session. Men’s and women’s finals. 6.00 Tennis. Adelaide International. Tournament2 Day 6. Twilight session. Men’s and women’s finals. 9.00 MOVIE: Monster-In-Law.(2005,M) 11.00 Late Programs.

9GO! (93, 82)

6am Children’s Programs.

1pm MOVIE: Barbie And ChelseaThe Lost Birthday (2021) 2.15 Children’s Programs. 2.30 MOVIE: Despicable Me. (2010,PG) 4.15 About ABoy 4.45 MOVIE: Dune. (1984,PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Troy (2004,M) 10.45 MOVIE: 300: Rise Of An Empire. (2014, MA15+) 12.40am Manifest. 2.30 Raymond. 3.00 PowerRangersDinoCharge. 3.30 Beyblade Burst Surge. 4.00 Late Programs.

With Stephen Colbert. 7.00 The King Of Queens 8.00 Frasier 9.00 Becker 10.00 Friends. Noon

The King Of Queens. 1.00 To Be Advised. 6.00 The Big Bang Theory 10.15 Friends. 12.15am Home Shopping. 1.45 The LateShow With Stephen Colbert. 2.40 Charmed. 3.35 NancyDrew 4.30 Home Shopping.

10 BOLD (12, 53)

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 4x4 Adventures. 11.00 All 4Adventure Noon IFish. 12.30 Exploring Off The Grid. 1.00 ST:Next Gen. 2.00 Waltzing Jimeoin. 2.30 Escape Fishing 3.00 The Love Boat 4.00 OffroadAdv 5.00 Reel Action. 5.30 IFish. 6.00 JAG. 7.00

Soccer.A-League Men. Matchweek 12.Adelaide United vMelbourne Victory. 10.15 MacGyver 11.10 Late Programs.

SEVEN (7,6) TEN (10, 5) NINE (9,8) 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Offsiders: SummerSeries. 10.30 TheWorld In 2022. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline: Summer Series. (R) 1.00 Movin’ To The Country.(R) 1.30 MontyDon’s American Gardens. (R) 2.30 Call TheMidwife.(PGa,R) 3.30 Victoria. (PG, R) 4.20 Grand Designs: House Of The Year.(R)

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 11.00 ForThe Love Of Dogs: India. (Premiere) 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Surf Life Saving.IronMan and IronWoman Series. Round4 3.00 FigureSkating.ISU Grand Prix. Round 6. Grand Prix of Espoo Highlights. 4.00 Cycling. Road National Championships. Highlights. 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally.Stage13. Highlights.

6.00 NBCToday. [VIC]HomeShopping. 7.00 WeekendSunrise. 10.00 TheMorning Show Summer Series. (PG) 12.00 Better HomesAnd Gardens. (R) 1.00 Border Security: International. (PG, R) 1.30 Cricket. BigBash League. Game 42. Hobart Hurricanes vSydney Thunder.From Blundstone Arena, Hobart 5.00 SevenNewsAt5 5.30 Border Security:Australia’s Front Line.(PG, R)

5.05 AGrand RoyalDesign. (R)

by

Bruce

6am Morning Programs. 8.00 Luca’s Key Ingredient. (R) 8.30 Freshly Picked. (R) 9.00 Destination Dessert. 6am Children’s Programs. 6.30pm Spicks And Specks. 7.30 You Can’t Ask That. 8.30 Lucy Worsley:Agatha Christie Mystery Queen. 9.20 LouisTheroux: Altered States. 10.20 Return To Belsen. 11.10 Attenborough And The Empire Of The Ants. 12.05am Long Lost Family 12.50 GeorgeClarke’sAmazing Spaces. 1.40 ABCNewsUpdate. 1.45 Close. 5.05 TikTak. 5.10 Clangers 5.20 Buddi. 5.25 Late Programs.

9.30 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 10.00 St10.(PG) 12.00 The Bachelors Aust. (PGals, R) 1.40 My MarketKitchen (R) 2.00 Waltzing Jimeoin. (PGal, R) 2.30 Exploring Off The Grid 3.00 4x4 Adventures. 4.00 All 4Adventure. 5.00 News. ABC TV PLUS (22) 6am What’sEating Gilbert Grape.(1993, PG) 8.10 The Orator.(2011,PG, Samoan)

Felix

to Aldinga. 110.4km. 4.00 Penelope Keith’s Hidden Villages. 5.00 Escape To ThePerfect Town. 6.00 Air Crash Investigation: Special Report. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 Britain’s Busiest Airport: Heathrow 9.30 Chris Tarrant’sExtremeRailway Journeys. 10.30 Air Crash Investigation. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 In Touch. 8.00 Beyond Today 8.30 The Incredible Journey. 9.00 TV Shop 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 MOVIE: Carry On Cowboy. (1965,PG) 1pm MOVIE: The Baby And The Battleship.(1956) 3.00 MOVIE: The Big Country (1958,PG) 6.30 BondiVet 7.30 MOVIE: The Day Of The Jackal. (1973,PG) 10.30 House 11.30 Late Programs. 9GEM (92,81) 7TWO (72, 62) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.30pm Surfing Australia TV 2.00 FilthyHouse SOS 3.00 Full Bloom. 4.00 Dance Moms 5.00 About ABoy 5.30 MOVIE: Rango.(2011,PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Hellboy. (2004,M) 9.55 MOVIE: HellboyII: The Golden Army.(2008, M) 12.10am Filthy House SOS 1.10 Full Bloom. 2.05 Dance Moms. 3.00 PowerRangers Dino Charge. 3.30 Beyblade Burst Surge. 4.00 Yu-Gi-Oh! Sevens. 4.30 Late Programs. 6am TheFishingShow By AFN 7.00 Creek To Coast. 7.30 Sound FX:Best Of 8.30 NFL.NFL.NFC Wild Card. 11.30 Sound FX: Best Of Noon NFL.NFL.NFC Wild Card 3.00 Mark Berg’sFishingAddiction. 4.00 ScrapKings. 5.00 ShippingWars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 MOVIE: Spider-Man. (2002, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Alien: Covenant.

Joker.(2019,MA15+) 12.45am

Midnight Late Programs. 9GO! (93, 82) 7MATE (73,64) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 4x4 Adventures. 10.00 Reel Action. 11.00 Healthy Homes Aust. 11.30 Buy To Build. Noon Roads Less Travelled 12.30 JAG 1.30 PoochesAt Play 2.00 Bondi Rescue. 2.30 Soccer.A-League Men.Matchweek 12.Western Sydney Wanderers vMelbourne City 5.30 JAG 7.30 NCIS. 10.20 MOVIE:

Monday,January 16

ABCTV (2)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Muster Dogs. (PG, R) 11.00 AntiquesRoadshow.(PG, R) 12.00 ABC News

At Noon. 1.00 Vera.(Mad, R) 2.40 Back Roads. (R) 3.10 Gardening Australia. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 4.55 Australian Story. (R) 5.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 5.55 OldPeople’sHome For Teenagers. (R) Part 1of5

7.00 ABCNews. Takesalook at today’stop stories.

7.30 7.30 Presented by LauraTingle.

8.00 Back Roads: Marrawah, Tasmania (PG) Hosted by Paul West

8.30 Under Cover. (PG) Explores howwomenover50are the fastest growing cohortexperiencing homelessness in Australia.

9.30 ALifeIn TenPictures: Amy Winehouse. (Madl, R) Takesalook at thelifeofAmy Winehousethrough a handful of iconic shots and private snaps.

10.25 Our Brain: Recharged (PG,R)

11.20 ABC LateNews.

11.40 Midsomer Murders. (Mv,R)

1.10 TheTrouble With Maggie Cole. (Ma, R)

1.55 Black Comedy (Ml, R)

2.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 One Plus One. (R) 4.30 ThinkTank. (R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

SBS (3)

6.00 MorningPrograms. 9.15 Peer To Peer.(PG) 10.15 Beyond The Beaten Path (Premiere) 11.10 Great Canal Journeys. (PG, R) 12.05 WorldWatch. 2.00 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 2.05 The World’sGreatest Palaces. (PGav,R) 2.55 Great Asian Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. DakarRally. Finalstage.Highlights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.35 Michael Mosley’sHealth Intervention. (PGa, R) Part 3of3

8.30 Heritage Rescue: Kelmscott Manor (PG) Part 3of5.Nick Knowles heads to the Cotswolds to see the restoration of Kelmscott Manor

9.30 Secrets Of Playboy: TheCircus. (MA15+) After decadesofsilence, Hugh Hefner’s former number one girlfriend SondraTheodore shares her story

10.20 SBS WorldNews Late.

10.50 Reunions (Mal, R) Jeremy and Chloe finalise wedding plans.

11.50 We Are Who We Are. (MA15+ls, R)

4.20 DestinationFlavour China. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30

ANC PhilippinesThe WorldTonight

SEVEN (7,6)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The MorningShow. (PG) 11.30 SevenMorning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Viva Las Vegas. (1964,G,R) 2.00 Australia’s Deadliest. (PG,R) 2.30 Beach Cops (PG, R) 3.00 TheChase. (R) 4.00 SevenNews At 4. 5.00 TheChase Australia. (R)

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home And Away (PGav) 7.30 Cricket. BigBashLeague Game44. Melbourne Stars v Brisbane Heat.From the MCG.

11.00 TheSpin. Lisa Sthalekar,Brad Hodge andJason Richardson take alookinto theworldofcricket.

11.30 Unbelievable MomentsCaught On Camera. (PGa) Twoantique dealers makeadeath-defying escape when their shop fills with flood water.

12.30 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under.Women’s.Stage 2. Highlights.

1.30 Harry’s Practice (R) Dr Harry Cooper and Dr Katrina Warren present information aboutanimals andpet care. [VIC]HomeShopping.

4.00 NBCToday News and current affairs.

5.00 SevenEarly News.

5.30 Sunrise. News, sportand weather.

TEN (10, 5) NINE (9, 8)

6.00 Today. Thelatest in news and current affairs.

10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. (Premiere) Reviews, previews, interviews, highlights and opinions from the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.

11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 1. From MelbournePark.Hosted by Tony Jones and RozKelly

6.00 Nine News.

7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 1. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey 12.00 NewAmsterdam. (Mamv, R) Thestaffdeals with the realitiesofthe pandemic

1.00 Destination Australia: FarNorth Queensland (R) Presented by Scherri-Lee Biggs

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R) Homeshopping.

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.

4.30 Bondi Lifeguard World Adventures: Road Boss Rally Pt 1. (PG, R) The Bondi boys compete in arally race.

5.00 NewsEarly Edition.

5.30 Today.

6.00 The Talk.(PGa) 7.00 Farm To Fork. (PG, R) 7.30 GCBC. (R) 8.00 Everyday Gourmet (R) 8.30 Ent. Tonight. (R) 9.00 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 9.30 Bold. (PG, R) 10.00 Studio 10.(PG) 12.00 10 News First:Midday. 1.00 Dr Phil. (PGa, R) 2.00 The Bachelors Aust. (PGl, R) 3.10 Ent. Tonight 3.30 Judge Judy (PG,R) 4.00 Farm To Fork. 4.30 Bold. (PG) 5.00 News.

6.30 TheProject. Special guest is Ella Hooper

7.30 TheBachelors Australia. (PGl) Threebachelors, Felix VonHofe, Thomas Malucelli and Jed McIntosh, search for love

8.45 Ghosts (PGad) Whena TV documentarycrewcomes to Woodstone Mansion to shoot an episode of apopular showcalled DumbDeaths,Pete confronts ahard truth about the day he died.

9.15 FBI: Most Wanted (MA15+v) The team investigates whether a shooting at aBuddhist temple wasa hate crime or something morepersonal

11.15 TheProject. (R) Special guest is Ella Hooper

12.15 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

ABC TV PLUS (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.30pm Spicks And Specks. 7.30 David Attenborough’s Rise Of Animals. 8.30 Long Lost Family 9.20 George Clarke’sAmazing Spaces 10.05 Australia Remastered. 11.00 Lucy Worsley: AgathaChristie Mystery Queen. 11.50 Whose Line Is It Anyway? 12.20am Veneno 1.05 Return To Belsen. 1.55 ABC News Update. 2.00 Close. 5.05 Tik Tak. 5.10 Clangers. 5.20 Buddi. 5.25 Late Programs.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am WorldWatch.

6.50 The77Percent. 7.20 WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon Adam Ruins Everything. 2.05 Devoured. 2.55 Life After People 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.15 Takeshi’sCastle. 5.45 JoyOfPainting 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Taskmaster 9.25 Hypothetical. 10.20 WWE Legends. 11.55 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

Sound Of

The Mahalia Jackson Story.

7TWO (72, 62)

6am MorningPrograms.

8.00 Harry’sPractice. 8.30 Million Dollar Minute. 9.30 NBC Today 10.30 Weekender 11.00 Cricket. Women’s One Day InternationalSeries. Australia v Pakistan. Game 1. Morning session. 2.30pm Cricket. Women’s One Day InternationalSeries. Australia v Pakistan. Game 1. Afternoon session. 6.00 Border Security 6.30 BargainHunt. 7.30 Doc Martin. 8.30 Inspector Morse. 10.50 Late Programs.

6am NFL.NFL AFCWild Card. Continued. 8.30 NFL.NFL NFCWild Card 11.30 Sound FX: BestOf. Noon NFL. NFLAFC Wild Card. 3.00 Armchair Experts: NFL Edition. 4.00 Billy The Exterminator 4.30 Demolition NZ. 5.30 American Restoration. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 44.Melbourne Stars vBrisbane Heat. 7.30 American Pickers. 8.30 MOVIE: Signs. (2002, M) 10.45 Late Programs.

Tuesday, January17

ABC TV (2)

SBS (3)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.05 Peer To Peer.(PG) 10.05 Beyond The Beaten Path 11.05 Great Canal Journeys (PGav,R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 2.05 The World’sGreatest Palaces. (R) 2.55 GreatAsian Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 4.05 Who DoYou ThinkYou Are? (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

Mastermind Australia. (R)

World News.

Who Do YouThink You Are?US: JeanSmart. Actor Jean Smartexploresher roots.

This Is Joan Collins. (Malsv,R)Takes alookintothe life of JoanCollins using never-before-seen home movie footage

SBS World NewsLate.

Cheyenne &Lola. (MA15+l) Rachida plays herlastcard.

Unit One. (Malsv, R)

DestinationFlavour China (PGa, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight

SEVEN (7,6)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The MorningShow. (PG) 11.30 SevenMorning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Girl Happy (1965,G,R) 2.00 Border Security: International. (PG,R) 2.30 Beach Cops. (PG, R) 3.00 TheChase. (R) 4.00 SevenNews At 4. 5.00 TheChase Australia. (R)

9GEM (92, 81)

6am TV Shop: Home Shopping 7.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. 7.30 TV Shop: HomeShopping. 9.30 Newstyle Direct. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show.(Premiere) 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 1. 6pm Tennis. Australian Open. Night 1. 11.00 Major Crimes. Midnight House. 1.00 TV Shop:Home Shopping. 4.30 JoyceMeyer 5.00 TV Shop: HomeShopping.

10 PEACH (11, 52)

6am Friends. 8.00

The Big Bang Theory 9.00 TheMiddle. 10.30 Friends. 12.30pm TwoAnd AHalf Men. 1.00 Charmed. 3.00 The KingOfQueens 4.00 Becker 5.00 Frasier 6.00 Friends. 8.00 TheBig Bang Theory 9.30 Seinfeld. 11.00 Frasier Midnight Home Shopping. 1.30 Becker 2.30 The Late Late ShowWithJamesCorden. 3.30 The King Of Queens. 4.30 Home Shopping.

9GO! (93, 82)

6am Children’s Programs. Noon Filthy HouseSOS. 1.00 America’s Top Dog. 2.00 To Be Advised. 2.30 Full House. 3.30 Raymond. 5.30 TheNanny 6.00 Tennis. Austn Open. 7.00 YoungSheldon 7.30 TheWeakest Link USA 8.30 MOVIE: Pulp Fiction.(1994, MA15+) 11.35 Young Sheldon. Midnight Dr 90210 1.00 The Sex Clinic. 2.00 Full House 3.00 Bakugan: ArmoredAlliance. 3.30 Late Programs.

10 BOLD (12, 53)

TEN (10, 5) NINE (9,8) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Kurt Fearnley’sOne Plus One. (R) 10.30 Dream Gardens. (Final, R) 11.05 Aussie Inventions That ChangedThe World. (PG,R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Father Brown. (PG, R) 1.45 Call The Midwife. (PG,R) 2.45 Back Roads. (R) 3.15 Gardening Australia. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.00 Australian Story.(R) 5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 Today. The latest in news and current affairs. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Reviews, previews, interviews, highlights and opinions from the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open Day 2. From MelbournePark.Hosted by Tony Jones and RozKelly

6.00 Nine News. 7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 2. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey 12.00 NewAmsterdam. (Mamv, R)

Maxisforced to face the heartbreaking consequencesofone of his policies. 1.00 DestinationAustralia: RottnestIsland. (R)Presented by Jo Beth Taylor andScherri-Lee Biggs 1.30

Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program. 4.30 Bondi Lifeguard World Adventures:Road Boss Rally Pt 2. (PG, R) The Bondi boys compete in arally race. 5.00

10 PEACH (11, 52)

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 10 BOLD (12, 53)

Page 26 —The Latrobe Valley Express, TV Guide Wednesday, 11 January, 2023

Mill workers have right to be proud

THE workers and overseas owners of the Maryvale Paper Mill are rightly proud of their Reflex copy paper.

It is avery high qualitypaper,madeusing timber from our native forests.

Ioften see thisbeautifulpaperbeing used to printtrivialsales dockets or even beingused as scribble paper.

The verycheapness of the paper means that a lot is wasted.

Look in the bins near aphotocopier and you’ll often find handfuls of misprints discarded by hurried or careless staff.

Around the world, too many native forests are already being chopped down.

Rather than expecting government moneytodeal with adeclining wood supply, Opal Paper needs to get its research, development and marketingpeople together to develop new ‘budget’ papers that meet the real needs of Australian customers, but use less valuable raw materials than mountain Ash.

Neil Hauxwell Moe

Our Loss.Their Gain

HOW fortunate we have been to have asenior reporter of the calibre on Michelle Slater. For the last five years the Latrobe Valley has benefited from accurate, informative and unbiased articles on so many topics.

Politics, business, energy, naturaldisasters, council matters,agriculture,personal struggles and successes to name but afew

Iask the Latrobe Valley Express to conveymy appreciation to Michelle. Our loss is another’s gain. On behalf of my community, thank you so much Michelle, and best wishes for your future.

Lorraine Bull Morwell

Dear Mr Butler

MEMO to the Minister for Health and Care -the Hon Mark Butler.

Sir,I make this plea to you regarding bulk billing. Is doomsdaycoming regarding bulk billing? More and more doctors are dropping bulk billing as the incentives are not meeting theircostofbulk billing. Also, the rebates are low for patients.

Bulk billingmust be improved,orthe public hospital will be under further pressure due to the increasing doctor fees.

NF Nanos

Traralgon

Morwell Rose Garden:A botanical masterpiece

“MY garden is my most beautiful masterpiece”. So wrote thefamousFrench impressionist painter,ClaudeMonet (1840-1926)toward the end of his life, and these imperishable words also perfectly encapsulate the way Ifeel aboutMorwell Rose Garden.

For in between the storms of my life (I hada particularly traumatic divorce 29 years ago and vainly battled the system all the way to the High Court), the multicoloured rose-beds of Morwell Rose Garden are like arainbowspanning the dark sky and leading me to again find solace and joy. Forat71, life is not now as it was when Iwas 21.

Although “life had lost its early bloom/and youth’s faded rose its perfume” (Lis from Golden Days of Auld), Iamthankful at the same time.

“For Ihave learned to look on nature, not as in the hour of thoughtless youth; and Ihave felt a presence that disturbs me with the joy of elevated

thoughts; asense sublime of something far more deeply fused, whose dwelling is the light of setting suns,and the round ocean and the living air, and the blue sky, and the mind of man” (Wordsworth, from Tintern Abbey).

Thus, as Ilook around me now in this garden, Iamalwaysamazed and always noticing with a heightened vividness and awareness, whichmakes my eyes like amagnifyingglass, as Iinspect certain roses in the minutest details hence,aconcluding poem of mine to roundoff this little vignette is in order:

If Iwerea Monet, alandscape of Morwell Rose Garden would be shown

In all the great museums of the world of fine art And not just exhibited in one place alone In the private gallery of my heart For Iamjustapoor unknown poet Using words instead of paint And the rosesinMorwellRoseGarden as my palette

Yet before this poetic heart falls silent and beats no more Igift to the world these my world landscapes

In the quainthope that it might conveythe beauty of the rose

And although it is far amasterpiece Ipoured my soul into each word Ichose And each word is aheartbeat.

Joseph Lis Morwell

Centrelink legislation is in drastic need of reform

THE Social Security Actand Social Security (Amendments)Act each contain over 1000 sections, most of which are designed to deny people

payments, and manyofwhich are in contradiction to other legislation.

Lottery wins, insurance payments and inheritances, when paid in more than one payment, are not classified as income by the Australian Taxation office, but they are by Centrelink.

Further,Centrelink use incomeaveraging to calculate afortnightly ‘income’ amount over a12 month period,a practicewhich was found to be illegal in the Robodebtcourt cases.This affects tens of thousands of people on Centrelink benefits each year, rightacross Australia.

The legal age for voting is 18, but Centrelink expect parents to support their children untilthey are22.

That is, of course, unless the parent is receiving acarer’s payment for adisabled child, in which case Centrelink consider the child an adult at age 16, and carer’s payment is cancelled.

Carers for disabled people are paid about $400 aweek to care for people with disabilities, about $10 an hour. If they decide to supplement this with other work, their carer’s payment is reduced or cancelled. Centrelink consider their payment to be welfare, whereas it is actually ajob.

Taxation law considers each partner in arelationshiptobefinanciallyindependent,asitshouldbe. However Centrelink considers that if one person in the relationship is working, the benefits of the other partner are reduced or cancelled.

This means the non-workingpartner is completely dependent on the working partner,and has no financial independence. The result for tens of thousands of menand women is domesticviolence in the form of economic coercion.

MPs elected priorto2004are able to collect a hefty pension for life, and still work full time in high paying jobs, but Centrelink cancels payments to aged pensioners if they dare to get ajob.

The agedpension was set up in the 1950s as areward for working and paying taxes, but Centrelink now regard it as welfare.

These are justafew of the examples of how Centrelink works against Australia’s most vulnerable, and it is time Human Services Minister, Amanda Rishworth, did her job and amendedthis legislation.

CraigHill Brisbane

Have your say

THE Latrobe ValleyExpresswelcomesletters to the editor.

Preference will be given to brief, concise letters which address local issues.

The editor Liam Durkin, reserves the right to edit letters for reasons of space and clarity, and may refuse to publish any letter without explanation.

The Express doesnot publish letters from anonymous contributors.

Lettersmust includea phone number, email address and the author’s hometown for purposes of substantiating authenticity.

Readers are entitled to one right of reply to aletter directed at them.

The views expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Latrobe Valley Express management or staff.

Email letters to news@lvexpress.com.au and include ‘letter to the editor’ in the subject line.

Deadline for letters is Thursday 3pm

Botanicalmasterpiece: The Morwell Rose Garden holds aspecial place in the heart of local resident Joseph Lis. file photograph

Artinsession

MOE Art Society is to greet the New Year from their new Meeting Place.

Members will begin their meetings tomorrow (Thursday, January 12) at the East End of the Latrobe City Library, George Street Moe.

The hours will be 9am until 3.30pm. Visitors are welcome and willbeable to come in for avisit either through the main door of the library or through the East End door.

Throughout the year, members will be working hard towards the Spring Art Show in October.

The society is looking forward to enjoying their newvenueand meeting there on Thursdays.

Libby Witchell, teacher and artist, willbepresentinga workshop on Thursday,February 23 in the East End. More details will be provided a couple of weeks before the workshop.

Those members not attendingthe workshopcan join Ken Downs for a day of PleinAir painting (weather permitting, of course). Ken will provide information closer to the date.

Other workshopsare coming up, and the society is pleased to have access to such brilliant artists to pass on their knowledge and expertise.

All enquiries to secretary, Peter McLaren, on 0400 933 609 or president, Beryl Galloway, on 0407 271 686.

Community Corner with Liam Durkin

Walhalla history

LOCALauthor Yolanda Reynolds has arevisededition of her book Walhalla Graveyard to Cemetery available now.

The book is agenealogical and historical publication, with alist of burials at Walhalla Public Cemetery.

It has more than 200 photographs and illustrations, and acoloured map, identifying the locations of interments.

There is 20 chapters of historical textrelatingtofatalitiesfrommine and tramway incidents, flood and fire, privation and epidemics.

Thebookhas biographical informationonpast Walhalla inhabitants,with around 4700 surnames referenced.

Also includedismonumental inscriptions of all gravestones; acomplete list of burials in the Happy-Go-Lucky and Cooper’s Creek graveyards.

Books are available at Morwell Newsagency, Moe Variety Store and Traralgon News &Lotto.

Orders can also be made by phoning Ms Reynolds on 0408 332 051, or emailing gandyreynolds@bigpond. com.au

Lessons in Traf

TRAFALGAR Public Hall is starting community social ballroom dance lessons on February 22023.

Lessons will be for beginners through to advanced dancers.

Lessonsare from 5pm for the first hour, before afull dance program.

Costis$5. Allproceeds go to the Trafalgar Hall.

The Trafalgar Hall is located at 30-32 Contingent Street.

For more information, phone Jennifer on 0439 762 808.

Learntospin

LATROBE Valley Spinning and Weaving Club will returntotheir weekly gatherings on January 18 in the Traralgon Neighbourhood Learning House (11-13 Breed St).

Meetingtimeisevery Wednesday from 12 noon to 3pm.

Bring along something for lunch. We would welcome new members.

Yarram Chalk Art Festival

THE Yarram Chalk Art Festival is back for 2023 with ‘Bookspiration’ as this year’s theme.

See incredible art works adorning the footpaths of Yarram’s main street and learn about the books that have inspired the artists’ work.

The 2023 Yarram Chalk Art Festival boasts incredible artists from all corners of Australia and overseas.

Organisersare especially proud to support their art community, as several localartists alsoare in the mix.

The Yarram ChalkArt Festival starts at 9am on Saturday, January 21 and concludes 5pm,Sunday, January 22.

When: 9am, Saturday, January 21, until 5pm, Sunday, January 22.

Where: Yarram

Nightwalk ImmersiveHorror

Traralgon

YOU arrive at asecret pathway at night in Traralgon.

You’ve got your starting coordinates and your fully charged, internetenabled mobile phone or tablet.

You look for the candle’s light, waiting for you nearby. You find it; now it’s time to put on your headphones.

Voices speak to you out of the darkness, communicating to you through your device. Whispers and sounds, pleas and exclamations, temptations and threats.

Something terrible happened here, and you’regoing to find out what. Nightwalk is auniqueand fully immersive journey into adarkstory of haunting,deceit and murder.

Nightwalkisata secret location; you receive yourstartinglocation when you book your tickets.

All tickets are priced at $42.90 and can be purchased at https:// www.nightwalkimmersive.com/.../ Traralgon-c138207507

experiment with art.

All sessions are free, with more informationavailable at Eventbrite: http://ow.ly/v4i150M6CUl

Virtuality realitysessions -nobookings required.

Tuesday, January 10, from 10am at Rosedale Library.

Thursday, January 19, from 10am at Maffra Library.

Friday, January 20, from 10am at Yarram Library.

Australia Dayfree breakfast barbecue

ROSEDALE Country Marketis hosting afree barbecue breakfast on Australia Day, January 26; bring your picnic rug and enjoy asnag or bacon and egg sandwich, in an opportunity to come together as acommunity.

When: Thursday, January 26, from 8am until 11am.

Where: Rosedale Community Market, Prince Street Reserve Rosedale.

Mindfull AusMental Health Fundraiser

FROM 5pm on Saturday, January 14, the Glengarry Hotel and Gippsland local, Jasmine Pryor, are hosting a party to raise money for Mindfull Aus. There will be live music from Erin Mckinney, cold beers, great food, a raffle and, of course, good times.

Donations for MindfullAus are appreciated.

Mindfull Aus works with people in high-riskareas of Australia to put wellnessbackinto theirown hands and spread the message of acceptance and hopeasthey work towards reducing the number of lives lost to suicide and the stigma associated with mind and behavioural health.

Booking is essential; to bookyour spot at the party, call 51924 222.

When: Saturday, January 14, from 5pm.

Where: Glengarry Hotel, 25-27 Main Street,Glengarry.

GaryAblettin Traralgon

elderly can’t move out of the way quickly and it can frighten them.

The reader’slastdog they had, failed because of this reason.

Sheila MaladyShort StoryCompetition

2023isthe 10th runningofthe Sheila Malady Short Story Competition.

Open to experienced authors or budding young writers, each year we receive entrants from across the country and, occasionally, the world.

Two’s Company is the writer’s prompt set by judges this time.

William Shakespeare loved to write abouttwins, lovers,couples andpairs of all kinds and now it is your turn.

Send us your best original work of 2000 words or less.

First prize includes $300 cash, two tickets to acommunity play, Twelfth Night and awooden quill crafted by local artist Gavin Roberts.

The local prize forawriter residing in Gippsland includes aCollins Book voucherplus two ticketstoa performance of the community play.

The finalcategory is for ayoung writer aged under 18, who will receive aCollins book voucher.

There is a$5entry fee and the deadline is March 31st at midnight.

Winners are announced at our official festival opening at The Stratford Courthouse Theatre, on April 27.

For competition details, application form andall things Shakespeare visit stratfordshakespeare.com.au

Newmembers welcome

LATROBE Valley University of the 3rd Age invites new members.

Are you actively retired? Do you want to continue to challenge your mind and body?

LVU3A offers arange of classes and activities which may interest you.

Check out the webpage at www. lvu3a.org.au for more information Or you may prefer to call the office at AirlieBankHomestead, 33 The Boulevard in Morwell, between 10am and 3pm on Wednesday, January 18, Thursday, January 19 or Friday, January 20, to find out when 2023 enrolments are open.

Further details can be obtained from the secretary on 0493 478 044.

If youare not aspinner, we can teach you as we have spare wheels and have some fleece to get you started.

For more information, phone Bev on 5134 4431 or Diane on 0438 517 470.

Glenmaggie buy, swap, sell

NEED to get ridofunwanted Christmas gifts? Spent the holidays going through cupboards? Why not have astall and make some money?

Glenmaggie Hall is hosting abuy, swap and sell market on Saturday, January 28 from 9am to 1pm.

The cost for stalls is $20 per site.

Anything can be sold except takeaway food and alcohol.

All stallholders are to arrive by 8am.

Phone Lee on 0418 108 691to register and for more information.

Nightwalk is suitable for ages 13+: The experience includes some coarse language and adult themes.

Nightwalk Immersive Horror Traralgon is for one night only, Saturday, January 21, with two sessions at 8pm and 9pm.

For moreinformation, go to www. nightwalkimmersive.com

When: Saturday, January 21, from 8pm and 9pm.

STEAM lab sessions

IF you’re interested in virtual reality or enhancing your digital illustration abilities, sign up for one of the STEAM lab programmes at Wellington Shire Libraries this January.

The three-hour, interactivesessions for young people (12-25 years) are a combination of structured learning and creative play, and are designed to encourage them to explore and

AN evening with Gary Ablett Jr at Hotel Traralgon willbeheld on Wednesday, January 25, 2023.

Hear from the AFL champion at this private local event in Traralgon.

Live Q&A session, Ablett memorabilia, silent auctions and more.

Ticket price is $45 per person.

This event will sell out, so be quick. Limited tickets available.

Tickets are available via this website: https://www.eventbrite.com. au/e/an-evening-with-gary-ablett-jnrin-traralgon-tickets-489068475977

Request for assistance

AN elderly reader of The Express is politely askingskateboard and scooters users to hop off their boards and scooters when seeing people who are blind or vision impaired.

People who use service dogs like guide dogs or seeing eye dogs or the

Youcan be apart of Community Corner

IF you

acommunity group

have any news items youneed publicised, feel free to email us at news@lvexpress.com.au

You can address the correspondence to Editor, Liam Durkin.

Please write ‘Community Corner’ in the subject line and nothingelse. Deadline is Friday 9am to appear in the following Wednesday issue.

Gathering: MoeArt Society membersenjoying theirend of year lunchatOld Gippstown. photograph supplied

Best in show: Bill Cotter awards the 2022Sheila Malady winner. photograph lisa hayman photo&film

STORMCOAT Roofing is afamily owned and operated roofing business servicing the entireGippsland region.

Theyspecialise in tiled roof replacements,restorations and small roof fixings

StormCoat Roofing offers a24/7 roof leak service,perfect forwhen drips occur due to storms and wet weather

Is that roof or driveway proving tough to clean?

Then call on the StormCoat team, whose high-pressure cleanerswill have it looking even betterthannew

StormCoat Roofing areadept when it comes to your gutters.

Forget

StormCoat Roofing also handle anyrebedding or repointing work, which can help yousavemoney

Renovations"

BULLS for Hire/Sale

Angus, Limousin, Jersey, Hereford and Friesian, very quiet. 0447 331 762.

Limouisin Bulls

SHEEP/LAMBS

4ewes and 5lambs, Suffock, $800 the lot. Phone 5134 3462.

Freshly cut dry Hay

1metre diameter round bales, unwrapped $30 per bale. Traralgon South. Phone 0438 753 428.

HAY

Small squares pasture hay, cutting now, Hazelwood $6 behind baler. Phone 0455 992 952.

Landscaping Mulch

TIBETAN Spaniel, male, sable colour, p/bred, 10 wks old, wormed, vacc., m/c 956000014901914, PER No.RB100506 $1800. Ph 0423 349 913.

TOY Poodle puppies, p/bred, 2males,red,vet checked, wormed, 2nd vacc. m/c 956000015799 384/802721, MB127206 $3000 ea. 0408 376 227.

NEW andsomepreowned items. Pickers wanted, offers invited on everything, must sell the lot. Ph 0411 544 695.

roof restorer, roofs painted, gutter

cleaning, shed and

plumbing, repairs/ maintenance, drainage and sewerage, roofing and guttering. Small

•

Unit 2, 5Donegal Avenue, Sun., 10am -2pm.

quality workmanship at affordable prices. Free design and quote. Call Jack on 0419 977 655. Garage Sales

Adult Services • BIG CLEARING SALE at 31 Holmes Road Morwell Something for everyone Forinfo 0437 981388

CHURCHILL, 28 Shaw St, Sat., 8am -2pm. Plants, clothes, dresses, books, jewellery, DVDs, craft, bric-a-brac and more. Something for everyone.

MOE, 88A Moore St, Sat. 8.30-1pm. Bath tubs, sink, car parts, tools, furniture, generators, filing cabinets, pinball machine, hot water systems and lots more.

KATIE

Traralgon, young, pretty, petite and unforgettable service. Ph 0431 361 932.

YUKI and LISA

Busty, beautiful and friendly, double or single, in/outcalls. 0421 532 854.

Notice

CUT IT DOWN

Specialising in tree pruning, tree removal, planting/gardening. Same day quotes. 7days p/w. Local friendly service. 0434 114 139.

Door Installer

Does your home need new doors? Ican supply and install doors/locks, inc. security doors. Over 32 yrs exp. Free quote, Lennie 0438 850 287.

ELECTRICIAN

Specialising in all domestic work. REC.4188. Phone Peter 0438 177 153 or Carol 5126 2110.

Public Notices

LAWN MOWING

and Handyman. Pruning, rubbish removal, minor home and garden maintenance. Ph 0400 115 086.

Need aCarpenter?

renovations, bathrooms, tiling, no job too small. Darryl 0403 515 819.

Need aPlumber?

Small jobs, hot water, toilets, taps, roofing. Over 20 yrs exp. 0437 759 224.

TREE REMOVALS GIPPSLAND

Pruning, stump grinding, hedging, nest boxand habitat hollowscreation, insured and qualified. Brent 0403 080315

SERVICING ALL AREAS

Business Opportunities •

Looking

for a

T'GON, 1Breed St, (enter thru back gate via Princes St), Saturday, 8am start. Moving house! Furniture, kitchenware, household bric-a-brac, shed tools and equipment.

Public Notices

GUITAR LESSONS

Gippsland Guitar School, all ages, 8-80, beginners to advanced, banjo and ukulele lessons also available. 0439 111 610.

EarlyChildhood Educator

Casual positions availableacross Wellington

jobs welcome. Glenn 0437 327 879. Lic. No. 45333. AMERICAN bulldog pups, DOB 29/10, 5F,vet check, wormed, vacc., beautiful temp, m/c. 953010005616 663/6606/6747/6679/6611 MB166283 $1300. Phone 0449 219 648. TRARALGON 30 Independent Way, Sat., 8-11am. Household items, furniture, office, tools, plants. All must go!! How to place your classified in our WEDNESDAY PUBLICATION 5135 4455 E X P R E S S C L A S S I F I E D S Phone: All classifications before 3pm Monday In person: Latrobe Valley Express 21George St,Morwell NextraLotto Moe 1-3 MooreSt, Moe Seymour St Newsagency 83 Seymour St, Traralgon PLEASE NOTE:| thatadpaymentis required prior to publication unless afullaccount is held with the Latrobe Valley Express. Email: classifieds@ lvexpress.com.au PLEASE NOTE: Confirm your email if youhave not received a confirmation email from us, emails ARE NOTALWAYS RELIABLE and we don’t alway receive them Mail: Latrobe Valley Express, “Attention Classifieds’’ 21 George Street, Morwell 3840 Newsagents: Most Newsagents act as our agents and will accept your advertisements up until the same deadlines as above Credit Card: When placing your advertisement over the phone or via email you charge it to your Mastercard or Visa Garage Sales • Livestock • For Sale • For Sale • Home Maintenance • Home Maintenance • Home Maintenance • classif ieds@lvexpress.com.au MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM-5PM Classifieds 51354455 Page 32 —The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 11 January, 2023

Registered Nurse, Enrolled Nurse, Clinical Nurse Consultant, PCW and After Hours Manager

Do YOUhave aflairfor Aged Care? If so, why not join our Residential Services team at our Dalkeith Gardens siteinTraralgon You’ll be part of adiverse, engaging and collaborative culturethatisguided by our values.

Registered and Enrolled Nurses, Clinical Nurse Consultant and After HoursManager in full-time, part-time or casualroles.You will be responsible in providing excellent,person-centred resident careinrelation to specialised nursing needs (i.e. management of diabetes, wounds,infections,pain and medications).

Personal CareWorker in apart time or casual role. Youwill work one on one withresidentstoassist with personal care

Notaqualified carer worker? We encourage youtoapply and speakwithusaboutentry-level opportunities.

Whenyou first start you’ll need: Registration withAHPRACertification fornursing roles

Minimum Certificate III in Individual Careor equivalentfor personal careworkers NDIS Clearance is mandatoryfor allnew employees

Formoreinformationplease contact: Jasmine Langstaff Phone: 5174 1759 Email:Jasmine.Langstaff benetas.com.au GP1 652384

ADVERTISERS

PLEASE NOTE:

Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns.

Our Situations Vacant columns are reserved for advertisements which carry aspecific and genuine offer of employment. Ads for `Business Opportunities' and `Training Courses' and `Employment Services' should be submitted under those headings.

INSULATION INSTALLER -Sub Contractor

Based in Morwell and working the surrounding areas, we are looking for sub-contractors to install insulation products to new residential homes. To be suitable for this opportunity you must have the following:

● Own ABN number

● Driver's licence, own transport and trailer and mobile phone

● Building Industry 'Construction Card'

● Be able bodied

● Experience desirable but not essential as training can be provided

Email your interest and contact details to Ricky Frendo (rickyf@con-struct.com.au) or contact Ricky on 0458 020 238. www.constructramsayinsulation.com.au

DELIVERERS WTD

Would you like to deliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Morwell, Traralgon, Moe, Newborou gh and Churchill? Please apply to the Circulation Manager 0456 000 541.

Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Employment Permit Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted. Adult deliverers also welcome.

Receptionist / Administrator

Latrobe Regional Eye Clinic is seeking an enthusiastic, well organised person with acute attention to detail to work on Mondays from 8.30-5.

This person will be required to multi-task and be pro-active with good communication skills.

GP1652101

Successful applicant will be directly involved in dealing with patients, basic computer skills are required and training will be given. Salary $35 per hour, also negotiable.

Applications can be emailed to: Mrs Sofie Abili dandyeye@tpg.com.au

If you have any queries, you can call Sofie on 9794 7515

SeniorManagement Opportunity

expertise and experience to contributetoinnovative new projectsaswelook to re-invent our business.

We arecommitted to increasing workforce diversity and creating an environment wherepeople with new ideas feel empowered to speak up and explorewhat is possible.

We constantly strive to understand and meet broad community expectations regarding environmental management,health, safety and good corporate citizenship.

About the opportunity

We arelookingtoappoint adynamic andhighly motivated senior manager on apermanent basis. The ideal candidate will have experience at amanagement level in the day-to-day operations, and engineering and maintenance of a thermal power plantorheavy industry. Thesuccessfulcandidatewillinitiallytake on therole of Manager Production, with potential opportunityinthe future to move into other management roles.

As amember of the LoyYang BManagementTeam, you will play apivotal role in influencingand shaping our futureaswell as providing effective leadership and contributing to the development and implementation of our overall business strategy.This role is akey part of our senior management succession strategy and ensures our abilitytomeet longer-term business objectives.

What you’ll do

Reporting directly to the General Manager,Loy Yang B, the Manager Production plans, organises, staffs, directs and controls all operational activities, ensuring that the business meets availability,reliability,efficiency,generation and cost targets, both safely andwithin environmental limits. Additionally,this role is responsible for chemistry, environmental andcompliance programs and activities associated with the operation of the LoyYang PowerStation. What you’ll need

Skills to empower,motivate, lead, mentor,coach and develop employees.

Demonstrated excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills, including technical writing

The ability to achieve successful business outcomes through functional and informal networks.

Abachelor’s degree in engineering (Electrical, or Mechanical).

Significant experience working in athermal generation plant in both operations and engineering and maintenance.

If this sounds likeyou, don’t ignorethis opportunity, makesureyou: Apply via our careers page www.loyyangb.com.au/careers

Close date 18 January2023.

LoyYang B–powering your career!

LoyYang Bwelcome applications from people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and people with disability.Wewill provide reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilitythroughout the recruitmentprocess. If youidentify as a person with disability and requireadjustments to the application, recruitment, selection and/or assessment process,pleaseadvisevia the above emailand indicateyourpreferred method of communication (emailorphone) so we can keepintouchand meet yourneeds.

OFFICE COORDINATOR

Traralgon SecondarySchool Full-time Ongoing

Commencing as soon as possible

BUSINESSADMINISTRATION

TRAINEESHIP

Warragul Secondary School Full-time 12 month contract

Commencing as soon as possible

If you areinterestedpleaseforwarda current resume and cover letterto hr@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

Foracopy of the Position Description please refer to our website: www.stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

WisdomIntegrity

URGENT Deliverers Wanted TRARALGON, MORWELL and NEWBOROUGH

Respect GP1 652499

Would you liketodeliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Traralgon, Morwell and Newborough.

Please apply to:

The Circulation Manager 0456000 541

Please note: Children mustbe11yearsorover as we will need to applyfor agovernment Child EmploymentPermit. Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted Adult deliverers also welcome GP1 632593

OFFICER

O&M Pty Ltd are currently seeking to employ a Receptionist and Accounts Payable Officer to work at our head office in Morwell. Abackground working in construction, mining or heavy plant maintenance industries is preferred, but not essential. There is room to 'grow' in this role and it would be seen as an advantage if you possess skills and experience in other areas such as payroll.

To be successful you must:

● Pass an extensive pre-employment medical, including amusco-skeletal fitness test, drug and alcohol screens.

● Hold acurrent Victorian driver's licence.

● Have reception or administration experience.

● Have aminimum of two-years accounts payable experience.

● Be capable of using Microsoft excel and have experience using financial and accounting software packages such as Reckon.

● Be ateam player, who is reliable, has aflexible approach with apositive attitude and high attention to detail.

What the job entails:

● Greeting all visitors.

● Handling queries via phone, email and in person.

● Handling event coordination and catering for staff meetings.

● Transferring calls as necessary.

● Managing and ordering staff amenities, stationery and PPE.

● Performing ad-hoc administration duties such as collecting the mail.

● Maintaining office services such as waste disposal.

● Ensuring messages and email correspondence into the Admin mailbox are passed to the appropriate staff member on atimely basis.

● Bookingpre-employment medicals and managing the process for on-boarding of new employees.

● Being able to prioritise your work and provide assistance to the staff and supervisors as required.

● Creating job numbers and purchase orders in Reckon.

Accurately entering supplier invoices and employee expense claims into Reckon.

Reconciling supplier invoices to supplier statements and preparing supplier payments.

are interested in this role, please email: admin@omaustralia.com.au

attach arecent resume along with five years employment history with contactable referees.

date: Sunday 15 January 2023

Situations Vacant • Situations Vacant • Situations Vacant • Situations Vacant • Situations Vacant • The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 11 January, 2023 —Page33

2014 SUBARU

Impreza. White hatchback 123,000km. Manual. Excel cond. One female owner. Serviced regularly. $13000 ONO. Ph: 0458 592 394

Cars

TheLatrobe

Selling avan?

Don't waste time waiting for buyers, or on endless consignment plans, sell it today we'll pay cash now.

Affordable Caravans 0418 336 238, 5623 4782.

Platinum Years 70 70

acrossthe BawBaw andLatrobe local government areas.

Family Preservation &Reunification Response Practitioner Full time position

BasedatSale

Theroleprovides intensive,wraparound casemanagementsupport to vulnerable children &families whopresent with complex needs.

Situations Vacant

Married 10/1/1953

Happy70th Wedding Anniversary Love and best w shes from your nine children

- Brian, Michael, Maree, Carmel, Denise, Anthony,Bernadette, Pauline, Paul andpartners 21 grandchildren, 24 greatgrandchildren and 2great great grandchildren

Deaths • STORAGE

Caravan /car or boat, mid-long term, undercover and secure. Call Karla 0437 554 619.

•

BROWN, Ivy. 2/1/2023.

Our beautifulmum, mother-in-law and nanny, So many lovely memories of special times together. The love, laughter, chats and good times we shared, we will hold in our hearts forever. We love you and will miss you so much. Give Dennis (Dad, Poppy Diesel), Jamie and baby Jamie abig hug from us. Much loved mother of Dennis (dec.), mother-in-law of Rhonda. Loved nanny of Jamie (dec.), Skye and Ann, Brooke and Dael, Anthony and Rachael. Loved great-nanny of Jamie (dec.), Blair, James, Dustin and Levi XXXX.

BROWN, Ivy. Rest in peace Ivy Love Barry and Irene.

BROWN, Ivy. United again with loved ones Love Shirley, Brian and Cameron.

COOK, Raymond John. Of Paynesville and formerly of Yinnar and Traralgon. 17/11/1941 -3/1/2023

Aged 81 years

Dearly loved husband of Gwenda.

Loving father of Stephen, Darryn, Russell and Narelle. Much loved father-in-law of Kylie, Tracey and Dean.

FISHER, Kevin John. 1/4/1938 -5/1/2023.

Farewell to our muchloved brother Froggy. He loved his family, his friends, red wine, and footy.

Alife well lived; Arest well earned All our love Mervyn, Maureen, Janice and families.

GILLIGAN, Sue. 24/6/1957 -28/12/2022.

Passed away peacefully at Scottsdale Hospital, Tasmania.

Dearly loved daughter of Norma McCowat. Sister and sister-in-law to John and Jennifer, Gary and Karen, Jenni and Andrew.

Aunty to Shane and Kylie, Sherrie and Jarod, Luke and Paige. Great Aunty to Kai, Marlee, Thea, Tylor, Roman and Jackson.

Treasured memories of our good times.

Now in God's care

JAKOB (Bye), Kay Lorraine. Passed away peacefully on 26 December 2022.

Aged 74 years Loved and adored wife of Frank. Much loved and sadly missed mum to Conrad and Marlo, mumin-law to Angela and Melita, and Nanna to Greta and Zoi.

Thank you to the nurses and carers at the Australian Unity Victoria Grange and Eastern Health Murrenda aged care homes.

ACelebration of Kay's life will be held at adate yet to be determined.

****

Cherished sister of Sue and sister-in-law of Ian. Adored Aunty Kay of Alexandra and Georgia. Friend of Ian.

Dementia took your mind from us Kay, but we never stopped loving you. Rest in peace my beautiful sister.

****

BRAND, Trevor. Passed away with his family by his side on 8 January 2023.

Loving husband of Val, dearly beloved father of Michael and Michelle, Wayne and Kelly, Dale and Jodie, and Tony and Faye. Adored Pa to Josh and Sophie, Ky and Cody, Sinclair, Hudson, Perrin and Ambrose, Makayla and Tajh.

Atrue gentleman who was loved by all and treasured by his family. Home was his family and his veggie garden that was shared with everyone. Will be dearly missed

Dearly loved Poppy to Stephanie,Brittany, Charmaine, Zoe, Georgia, Corey, Ella and Abby.

Finally at rest at the big truck stop in the sky Ray, my life is going to be empty because now I've lost abig part of it. We have been there for each other for 59 years. There will be no more suffering and now you're at peace. Till we meet again R.I.P. Your loving wife, Gwenda. Funeral has been held

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

DRAPER, Leona June. 19/2/1936 -31/12/2022.

HAMMET, Michelle Lisa. 9months ago we were sitting on ahouseboat on the Murray ticking off our bucket list. Little did we know that by the end of the year we would be saying goodbye. You were the best friend anyone could ask for and you taught us the true meaning of family. You were the kindest and most selfless person, always putting people first. Your steadfast faith in God was atrue testament to your love and trust in Him. Iknow we will see you again in glory so keep the coffee pot hot in our mansion.

We promised you we will look after Dave, Jareth, Jess, Tanya and Rick and we will. Family forever. Nicole, Marko, Sebastian, Elijah, Angel and Jessica. P.S. Zoe will miss her pats.

HAVAS, John. To our beloved brother and Uncle John, may God grant you peace where you are. In our memories always. Love from Tom, Joanna, Andrew,Maria and George.

HAVAS, Yanni. Goodbye my best Greek friend, enjoy the long ride 'til we meet again, Daniel.

Loved and loving sister of Geoff (dec.), and Helen and aunt to Narelle and Aidan and their families. Loving memories of years gone by.

JOHNSTON, Mathew Lawrence "Johno". Passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at home Wednesday, 28 December 2022.

Aged 49 years

Loved and loving youngest son of Lawrence and Elma.

Cherished brother of Carol, Ian, Lorraine (dec.) and Steven. Brother-in-law of Caroline and Kay.

Loving husband of Kim. Devoted Father of Jayden, Ryan, Caitlyn and Adam. Loved uncle to his nieces and nephews.

JONES, A.G. (George). Passed away 6/1/2023 peacefully at Narracan Gardens. Aquiet, dignified gentleman. Deeply loved by his family.

BRAND, Trevor. The Man ag e men t, Committee and staff of the Traralgon RSL deeply regret the passing of their es te emed Affi liat e Member Trevor who will be sadly missed by all at the club. Trevor contributed so much time to our Appeals, Committee and was afriend to all who knew him. We extend sincere condolences to Val and family.

LEST WE FORGET

BROWN/MILLS (nee Schmutter), Ivy Myrtle.

Passed away peacefully at Heritage Manor with family by her side on Monday, 2January 2023.

Aged 87 years

Wife of Stan (dec.). Companion of Harry Hams (dec.).

Much loved and respected mother and mother-in-law of Ross and Susan, Dennis (dec.) and Rhonda, Rhonda and Barry, Shane and Pha.

StepmothertoDoug, Shirley, Barry and Sharon (dec.).

Much loved Nanny of Boe, Kate, Jae, Jamie (dec.), Skye, Brooke, Anthony, Zaim, Erin, Joel, Aliza, April, Billy, Shaun, Kerryn, Cameron, Aleksandra and Shelby.

Nanny Nanna to her great grandchildren, James, Levi, Blair, Dustin, Lucy, Lily, Sophie, Eliana, Max, Mia, Lily, Hadley, Nixon, Leila, Cindel, Baikah, Violet, Sunday, Angus and Oscar.

In our hearts you will stay, Loved and remembered everyday

Loving wife of Vincent (dec). Mum to Kerrie, Sharon and Craig. Much loved Grandma to her 6 grandkids and 16 great grandkids.

Now in God'shands Rest in peace Mum

FISHER, Kevin John (Kev, Fish, Frog). 1/4/1938 -5/1/2023.

Aged 84 years It's with deep love and sadness that we announce the death of Kevin. Top dad and friend to his loving children Sharon, Mandy, Brad and Clint, their wonderful partners Andy, Kel, Claire and Kerry and his gorgeous grand-kids, Ziggy and Rufus.

Former husband of Carolan, former partner to Lia and loving member of the Birch family, devoted partner and travel mate of Helen.

Loving brother of Mervyn, Maureen, Janice and families.

Lifelong friend to so many -Kev lived life large and we loved him for it.

HOWE (nee Smith), Phyllis Jean. Passed away peacefully at Latrobe Regional Hospital on Saturday, 7 January 2023.

Aged 93 years

Formerly from Raymond Island.

Wife of Reg (dec.) and Wally (dec.).

Much loved mother of Greg, Julie, Robert (dec.) and Peter.

Daughter of Richard and Isobel Smith (dec.).

Sister to Jack, George, Walter, Annie, Maude and Keith (all dec.).

LANGSTAFF, Fay. Mum, Nan, Old Old Nan, even though you are no longer with us, spiritually you'll always be there when we need you. There is aspecial place in our hearts for you, we miss you and will think of you every day. You taught us, family comes first, you always had time for us, taught us to how to love and live life to its fullest. No regrets, it will be okay we love you, we have our memories and your everlasting love to keep us safe. It's your time to rest now. Always in our hearts, God Bless. Leon, Selena, Melissa, Jasmine, Zain and Mia (dec.).

To Nan, thank you for always inspiring me to be strong, independent, capable, full of laughter and above all love. Rest in peace knowingyou will live inall of us. Wemiss you. Hug my baby girl tight and love her the way you did us. Love always, your granddaughter Melissa and great grandson Zain.

LANGSTAFF, Fay. Abeautiful lady with a wonderful sense of humour. Always welcomed by you as Ann and Iwalked to the pool and back, as children and welcomed, as an adult, when Icalled to see your garden (and Cocky).

Much love to the whole family Sue and Garth Silvester and family.

MURPHY, Bernard John (Bernie).

FISHER, Kevin. Passed away suddenly at the Alfred Hospital on 5/1/2023. Step-father to Ian and Katie. Papa to Amy, Sophie, Hayley, Cam, Bayley and Mia. Forever in our hearts and memories

Passed Peacefully on 5 January 2023.

Aged 69 years Beloved husband of Margie, loved Dad of Rach and Mike, Trace and Panda and cherished Pop of Jodine, Riley, Taleisha, Blake and Bodie.

ROYAL Flair Comet 2003 caravan, 17'6'', v.g. cond. inside and out, rollout awning, reverse camera, rev./cycle air cond., TV, 6 mths reg., lift up dble bed $17,500. 0417 545 145.

LOWDEN Vincent & Margaret

Caravans •

• Wedding Anniversaries •

PYNT, Deirdre Margaret.

12/4/1949 -5/1/2023.

Passed away at Maryvale Private Hospital.

Dearly loved wife of Harvey (dec.) Loved mum to Siobhan and Marc, and Stuart.

Loving Nan to Broden, Mylee and Tyler.

Much loved by her Furbaby Tango.

Loved andremembered always

At Deirdre's request, a private family funeral ceremony will take place.

SMITH, Patricia.

To Mum, You're finally at peace, no need to worry about everyone else, you've done it tough, 10 kids and working. Then when you and Dad should've enjoyed yourselves, you took in your two special daughters. No-one would understand how tough it was to start with. And when you needed to unwind, you'd play your piano and Dad and me would listen to you from the other room. Hey maybe you and Dad can do that lap of Aus. now and have Nan make acouple of shandy's for you. Missed you years ago.

SMITH, Patricia. 16/1/1931 -7/1/2023.

WETHERAL, Valerie Eleanor (Val). 14/10/1928 -4/1/2023. Passed away peacefully at Latrobe Regional Hospital. Dearly loved wife of John (dec.), much loved and respected Mum of Hedley, Ross and Vicki (dec.). Mother-in-law to Pauline and Carol. Proud and loving Nana Val to Shane, Zoe, Tamara and Greg. Reunited with John and Vicki

MURPHY.

The Funeral Service for Mr Bernard John Murphy will be held in our Geoff Rossetti Memorial Chapel, 1390 Maffra Road Sale (next to Sale Cemetery) on THURSDAY (12 January 2023) commencing at 10am.

APrivate Cremation will follow

For those unable to attend, a"Youtube" broadcast of the service will take place.

SMITH.

The Funeral Service of Mrs Patricia Smith will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Ave, Moe on TUESDAY (17 January 2023) commencing at 10.30am.

Following the service, the Funeral will leave for the Moe Cemetery.

To view the livestream, visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au go to Funeral Notices and follow the prompts.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111

SMITH, Patricia. Passed away on Saturday, 7January 2023.

Loved wife of Denis (dec.). Mother of Wendy (dec.), Karen, Debra, Derek, Peter, Gary, Andrew, Tracy, Lynette (dec.), James and their partners. Greatly missed grandmother and great grandmother.

Alifetime of beautiful memories Mum, who dedicated her whole life to her family, may you rest in peace with those who love you dearly in heaven. Iwill treasure our times we had together and the times shared with my sisters. Memories which will never fade. Forever in my heart, Deb.

You are now at peace, Mum, and my heart is heavy. You leave us all with so many memories.

Your love for family was huge, endless and forgiving. Iwill always remember how happy you felt after the family visited and the joy those visits brought you. Iamglad Iwas able to share so many years with you and Iwill miss you greatly. Love always, Karen.

Fond memories forever held by Michael, Courtney and Mackenzie; Jen and Christine; Chris, Nikita and Sasha; Adrian.

Pat, Iwill miss our chats together as we shared cups of tea and some biscuits, crying together as we talked about the past and those we have lost, and laughing about old age and how wobbly and forgetful we had become. Iwill miss you, my buddy. Love Antonietta.

Mum, I'm going to miss our chats and time together. You gave me strength to become the mother, nurse and woman Iamtoday. You always put your family first and not yourself and Ilove and respect you for that. Imiss you already. Mason is going to miss his dollop dollop nan nan, as he loved coming to see you too. Iamnot sure how Ican explain to him you are gone. Your loving daughter Tracy.

Also will be missed by Adrian, David, Sharee, Logan, Macie, Mylie, Mark, Mason, Hudson and Robert. Bye for now Mum XX.

Mum, Iwill always miss you. Rest in peace. Love you always, Peter and Kay.

SMITH, Patricia.

Mum, there's not going be aday go by Imiss you.

Love your son Gary and granddaughter Rebecca and grandson Jay.

You always gave your life to others. Thank you so much for everything you did for me. Iwill forever cherish our memories. Give Mum akiss for me. Our Matriarch Rest in Peace Love you forever, Sarah.

SMITH, Patricia. Thank you for your sacrifices, your care, unconditional love and everything that you have done for me.

You may have passed on, but Iwill always cherish our memories and they will always live on within us. Iwill be forever grateful and honoured to be your granddaughter. Love you always.

Fly high Nan, you have earned yourwings Wendy.

SMITH, Patricia.

Remembered with love Derek, Jacquie, Robert and Lauren.

Thanks for the memories

SULTANA, Loreto Joseph (Laurie).

Passed away suddenly at Latrobe Regional Hospital Traralgon on 2January 2023.

Aged 87 years

Dearly loved husband of Anne for 64 years.

Much loved father and father-in-law of Mary and Bob (dec.), Denis and Jane, Jeff and Kathy.

Adored Pop to Jason, Russell, Jarred, Rachel, Tess, Aaron, and Liam. Nannu to Flynn, Sienna, Tate, and Callan.

WHITELAW Geoff

The members of Yinnar Bowls Club aredeeply saddened by the loss of Geoffand he will be greatly missed as an active member of the Club. We will miss Geoff’s smile, company and experience on the green. Our sincere condolences areextended to Margand family

Funerals

BROWN.

The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation of Mrs Ivy Brown will be held at the Rose Chapel, Gippsland Memorial Park, Traralgon on THURSDAY (12 January 2023) commencing at 2pm.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5184 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

FISHER.

AGathering to Celebrate the life of Kevin John Fisher will take place at the Willow Grove Football Club Rooms, Main Rd, Willow Grove on FRIDAY (13 January 2023) commencing at 1pm.

Please bring photos to share.

To be PRECEDED by a Private Cremation. The Ceremony will be live-streamed. Please see Julie Harwood Funerals Facebook page for link.

O'DONNELL-JULIN.

The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Daniel Leo O'DonnellJulin will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy, Traralgon THURSDAY (12 January 2023) commencing at 2pm.

As arequest please do not wear all black.stream, please visit: latrobevalley funerals.co.au and click on livestreaming.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

SIMMONS.

The Life Celebration for Greg will be held at the Traralgon Greyhound Racing Club, McNairn Rd, Traralgon on SATURDAY (21 January 2023) commencing at 2pm. Greg wanted much fun and laughter so we ask that you wear something silver, preferably silver shoes like him (Op shop shoes and spray paint work well). There will be an open mic for any musicians wanting to perform, or others wishing to relay astory about Greg. Numbers are needed for attendance of alight afternoon tea. Please text your attendance to Julie Harwood Funeral Directors on 0405 669 532 and remember to include SIMMONS in your message. Please bring stories and photos.

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

VASSILIOU.

The Funeral of Mr Andreas Aresti Vassiliou will leave St Paul's Cathedral, 147 Cunninghame Street, Sale after aService commencing at 11am on WEDNESDAY (11 January 2023) for the Sale Lawn Cemetery.

GRASSENS, Jan (John).

12/9/1933 -12/1/2020.

No length of time can take away my thoughts of you today. Love always. Beth.

CARDILLO, Francesco (Frank).

Lucy, Angela, Vin, Tony, Mario and families, would like to sincerely thank everyone for their kind thoughts, beautiful flowers, cards, food and condolences on the loss of our husband and father, Frank.

Also thank you to the staff at Heritage Manor for all the care and support you gave to Frank.

BRADY (neePattinson), Lorraine Margaret.

John, Andrew, Chris and their families would like to sincerely thank everyone for their kind thoughts, flowers, care and condolences on the loss of our beautiful wife, mother and Nanny.

Special thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff at Latrobe Regional Hospital, and especially to the compassionate and caring teaminthe Palliative Care -Bass Ward.

The greatest comfort during our sorrow was the expressions of sympathy conveyed to us in many ways. We deeply appreciate your thoughtfulness and thank you most sincerely.

JUNGE, Dietmar (Dick). 1939 -2022

The Junge family would like to thank all family and friends for the phone calls, flowers, cards, kindness, well wishes, tributes and condolences following the passing of Dietmar.

Aspecial thanks to the Emergency Services for their prompt, professional care and kindness at the time of Dietmar's passing.

To the LV Funeral Services for taking care of Funeral arrangements along with Beryl Stevens for providing alovely service.

Thank You

WETHERALL.

The Funeral Service to Celebrate the life of Valerie Eleanor Wetherall will take place at the Rose Chapel, Gippsland Memorial Park Crematorium, Cemetery Dve, Traralgon THURSDAY (19 January 2023) commencing at 3pm. Val's service will be livestreamed -link herehttps://youtu.be/YaKjz9WH-Eo

Funeral Directors

•

VASSILIOU, Andreas Aresti.

At Sale on 2January 2023.

Aged 81 years

Loved husband of Virginia, loving father of Theresa, Catherine and Aresti, father-in-law of David and Wayne, grandfather of Xavier, Zachary, Lachlan, Dominic, Matilde and Oliver.

We knew the time was coming, and soon we would have to part.

You fought so hard, you gave it all, you came up fighting after every fall.

Ahappy smile always on your face, aspecial dad we can't replace.

Always cheerful, aheart of gold, memories of you will always hold.

Rest in peace 'Bapou'. We love you so much and will treasure the time and memories we had together.

WEARNE, Ray.

It's with asad heart we cherish the memory of our esteemed brother in law who passed away on 12 December, 2022, Qld. A popular and honoured school teacher, both in Glengarry West and Newborough Schools, over many years.

Vale Ray Frank and Alex McDougall and families.

HOWE.

The Funeral Service for Mrs Phyllis Jean Howe will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway, Traralgon on TUESDAY (17 January 2023) commencing at 11am.

Phyliss' Service will be livestreamed. To view the livestream visit our website.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

JOHNSTON.

The Funeral Service for Mr Mathew Lawrence Johnston will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Avenue, Moe on FRIDAY (13 January 2023) commencing at 10.30am.

After the service aprivate burial will take place.

Mathew's service will be livestreamed. To view the livestream visit our website.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

SULTANA.

The Funeral Service for Laurie Sultana will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6 Ollerton Avenue Moe on FRIDAY (13 January 2023) at 3pm.

Laurie's service will be livestreamed, to view the livestream please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au and click on live streaming

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

BATTISTA, Wilma. 30/1/1936 -10/1/2022.

Ayear has passed, with each passing day Ithink how lucky Iamtohave had you in my life, as my wife.

Miss you so much Your loving husband, Tony XX.

Akind and loving Mum, Nan and Nana.

Special memories we share forever in our hearts and miss you so much in our lives.

Love you Gena, Dianne, Anthony and family XXX.

BLAKE (nee Elliott), Louise.

In loving memory It's 12 months since you passed, yet you are in our thoughts and memories daily, and you are missed even more.

Much loved wife of David. Cherished mother of Jillian, Vivienne, and Colin. Special sister of Glenn.

MARK RIDDLE Funeral Consultant

DAVID HASTIE General Manager

ALLAN WORTHY Funeral Consultant

MYRA

GippslandGoannas back with abang

CRICKET VETERANS

THE Gippsland Goannas Over-70 team were the first to resume after the Christmas break, with a home gameagainst the Mornington/Canterbury Over-70 team.

The gamewas played at Duncan Cameron Reserve, Traralgon on Sunday.

Goannas captain, Ian Southall, who hasbeen selected to play for the National Over-70 team against the visiting English next month, won the toss and decidedthat theGoannaswouldbat first.

Adecision for batsmentoretire after 30 balls was made, and Ian Gibson and Garry Rose opened the innings.

After acareful start, they both retired at about the 10 over mark when the score was 21.

Gordon Cowling and Dick Noble came to the crease and increased thescoring rate.The score reached 1/62 after 20 overs.

Cowling was bowled for 12, and Southall joined Noble, both subsequently retired.

Andrew Smith made 11 before being caught; Barrie Nunn and Wayne Tatterson followed soon after with the score 4/97 at the 30-over mark.

Murray Moore retired for 25, Phill Higgins, on his return afterheartsurgery, was 13 not out, with the early retirees returning to take the score to 7/140 from 40 overs.

In reply, the Mornington/Canterburyinnings

started slowly, with Cowling and Southall opening the bowling.

After 10 overs they were 1/18, with an lbw decision going Cowling’s way.

Moore and Bond then bowled three overs each, and made way for Smithand Noble to bowl acouple each before drinks.

Smith soonhad awicket as the Combine went to drinks 2/61.

Smith continued from the southern end, taking asecond wicket soon after, then two more to have M/C 5/88 after 27 overs.

Nunn replaced Noble, then Cowling came back on, as the score mounted and it reached 119 after 33 overs.

Southallcameback on, Cowling finished his eight overs with 1/17, Southall (0/18), and Higgins completed his comeback with atidyover, as the M/C team passed the Goannas score in the 38th over.

Southall had taken acatch, none were put down, and averyenjoyable game was had by all.

The excellent bowling figures of 4/23 earned Andrew Smith the Goanna’s Man-of-the-Match award.

The nexttwo games forthe GoannasOver-70s willbe‘double-headers’, with the Over-60s playing on the Sunday, and the Over-70s on the Monday.

The Goannas Over-50 and Over-60 teams resume this Sunday, January 15, with the Over-50s away to Mornington and the Over-60s away to Sunbury.

Practice willcontinueatGlengarry on Wednesdays from 4.45pm.

Locals in action as gates open for 2023

HORSERACING

By TOM HAYES

STONYCreek RacingClubwas back in action, starting the New Year with an eight-race card for the Pink Roses Day meet.

The track was graded aGood 4atthe beginning of the day, but was upgraded to aGood 3prior to the opening race.

Ten local horses were spread out across six of the eightraces, although none were winners, a few came close.

The Race 1Action Pumps &Irrigation Maiden Plate over 2100 metres, was takenout by Nightsun for Robbie Griffiths and Mathew de Kock.

Sale’s Troy and John Kilgower raced Redskin Jimmy,afive-year-old gelding now with 23 starts Despite another placing, he is still without awin.

Redskin Jimmy had the best jump of them all and led the pack on their first trip around the main straight.

In avaliant effort, Redskin Jimmy led practically from start to finish, but was run over the top of in the final 100m, by Nightsun, who came from fifth to take the first victory of his career.

Surely amaiden win is just around the corner for Redskin Jimmy, who has presented good form as of late -five top-four finishes in the last five starts Race 2’sPink Roses Maiden Plate (1000m) had no local runners, and was expertly won by Rock Melody for Pakenham’s Ricardo Meunier.

In just the four-year-old mare’s seventh start of her career, Rock Melody now has atickinthe win column, nowfiveplacings from those seven starts.

Priced at $18 prior to the race, Rock Melody led

the sprint from start to finish, holding off afast finishing short-pricedfavourite -Star Magic to the line.

TrailerPark Girl ran for Sale’sAngela Bence in the Race3 Ladbrokes Market ControlF&M Maiden Plate (1100m).

Unfortunately for Bence, Trailer Park Girl had ashocking run, finishing last of the nine starters.

The race was eventually won by Oreo Twist by around half alength,for Mornington’s MattLaurie.

Oreo Twist ran off-pace for much of the race, before coming alive to pinch the lead at the final hurdle to claim her first win from three starts.

The Race4 South GippslandSentinel Times Maiden Plate (1600m) was comfortably won by Makbeel for Dean Krongold.

Abrilliant run from Makbeel saw him clean up the field at the 600m, to stretch out to afive-length lead, for the first victory of his short career.

Redoubt Road for Sale’s Adam Hanley ran last for majority of the race, until the 600m, when she fortunately climbed the order to finish fifth.

The favourite -Miss Vaughn -was trapped as horses fell in herlap as they rounded thefinal corner, before finishing sixth.

Race 5’s Meeniyan Hotel BM58 Handicap(2100m) was ran in similar fashion to race six, with Sarnia for Reece Goodwin, winning by closetofour lengths.

There were three local runners in the fifth race, one of which earnt aplace-finish.

Sarnia miraculously led the entire race, although closewith Dodgy One at the final turn, she blasted out to athree-and-a-half length lead.

The Bountyfor Sale’s Colin Butcher had a consistentrace, keeping up with the pace-makers. He wasbeaten to athird-place finish by another

local

The

Redgum Rosie for the Kilgower’s of Sale had a great start, considering she was priced at $51.

Shegassedout toward the 600m, falling into the clutches of themidfield, before finishing seventh.

The Race 6Meeniyan IGA Plus Liquor 0-64 Handicap BM58 (1100m) was the final race of the meet with no local talent.

Just like the two previous races, it was another one-horse race, as Bifrost for Emma-Lee and David Browne cleaned up by three-and-a-half lengths.

Bifrost sat comfortably in the midfield for the sprint, before making achargearound the bend and taking the lead inside the 200m.

He claimed his third win from 13 starts, and his first since May, 2022 at Hillside.

Race 7’s Fish Creek Hotel BM58 Handicap (1000m), was won by Mir for Nick Ryan, close behind in second was Delivery Man for Kelly of Sale

Thefavourite, Mir,had aslow start, butmade ground in the sprint, before kicking ahead of the leaders on the straight.

Paying $26 before the race, Delivery Man did well to hold onto second, edging the likes of Bazinga Bazinga and Pretty Panda.

With just one race remaining, still three local horses were due to run in the Race 8Brandt Leongatha BM58 Handicap (1700m).

It was an unfortunate ending however, as none were able to make good progress in the pack.

Jakk’s Fortune for Sale’s Hanley ran at the rear of the midfield for most of the race, before falling further to second-last.

The bestofthe locals in race eight was Little Brother for Darryl Blackshaw of Moe.

Little Brother made alatechargeinthe final race, coming from ninth at the 400m mark, to run into fourth by the line, pipping fifth-place Cleitus by anose.

But the race was comfortably won by four-year-old mareTiara Jewel, who ledatthe important stages, includingthe finishbyover two-and-a-half lengths

In her short 14-race career, it is just her second victory and fourth placing, as she hopes to regain form once again.

Cougars AGM

BASEBALL

LVBA

MORWELL Cougars Baseball Club’s annual meeting is coming up.

The club will hold its annual meeting on Thursday, January 19 from 7.30pm at the Morwell Bowling Club.

All are welcome to attend.

-Sassoon, for Sale’s Rebecca Kelly.

veteran Sassoon finished strongly to pinch third from The Bounty by anose.

The Kilgower’s Manhattan Sting treaded steadily for the entire race, staying within the midfield, completing the 1700m in sixth, over seven lengths from the leader.

Action packed: Veterans cricketaction from Duncan Cameron Park,Traralgon. photograph supplied

No cigar: Nightsun ridden by CarleenHefel wins Race 1atStony Creek, Redskin Jimmy(blue and red) forSale’s Troy and John Kilgower,camehomeinsecond. photograph scott barbour/racing photos

Localatpeak of college football

AMERICAN FOOTBALL NCAA CHAMPIONSHIP

BY TOM HAYES

IT’S along wayfrom the Latrobe Valley to Fort Worth, Texas, but Traralgon’s Jordy Sandy made the journey fouryears ago to pursue acollege football dream.

Over 14,000 kilometres, or nearly 9000 miles if you like, is the distance that Sandy travelled in order to turn his dream into areality.

Sandy playsasapunter for Texas Christian University (TCU) Horned Frogs, who are one game away from college football glory.

TCU took on Georgia Bulldogs yesterday (Tuesday) morningAEDT, in the NCAA College Football Playoff NationalChampionship (NB: This story went to press before the match was played).

To put into perspective, the CFPNational Championship is the Super Bowl of college football, or the equivalent to the Grand Final in the AFL.

Sandyhas endured afour-year college football career in Fort Worth, and after playingAussie Rules for Traralgon, the difference is incomparable.

Sandybegan his AmericanFootball dream while working in Traralgon, when amatesuggested they tryout at ProKickAustralia -anacademy for aspiring American football punters.

“I used to work at the paper mill in Traralgon… Iremembersitting thereone day withanother buddy who started doing ProKick, Tom Hutton,” Sandy said.

Hutton plays for Oklahoma State Cowboys, and Sandy mentionedtheyhad played against each other on anumberofoccasions over the past four seasons.

Within two weeks of doing atry-out with Hutton and ProKick, Sandy quit playing Aussie Rules for Traralgon to focus on punting full-time.

“I trained withProKick for mostof2018,then got an opportunity to come over here,” Sandysaid.

This season hasbeen Sandy’sfirst taste of school success throughout his time at TCU.

“Ourfirst three seasons, we were pretty average, so this sort of come from left-field (makingthe championship game),” he said.

TCU defeated Michigan Wolverines by six points in TheFiesta Bowl, granting them achancetoplay off against Georgiafor college football’s biggest prize.

“We’re coming up against another undefeated team, these things give us the confidence to match it with the bestteams in thecountry,” Sandy said.

Georgia defeated Ohio State Buckeyes by apoint to advance to the championship game, but Sandy focussed on the fact that Michigan -who TCU defeated -madelight work of Ohio -who Georgia failed to dispose of with ease.

“That holds us in good stead, we’re playing with all of the confidence in the world at the moment,” he said.

On his opposition sits another Aussie punter, Brett Thorson, who is reasonably local too -from Dumbalk.

Thorson wentviral in early-November for his 75-yard(68.5 metre) punt for Georgia against Tennessee Volunteers in front of more than 92,000 people.

“It’s huge to know that there is two Aussie guys from the same academy playing on anational, or international stage if you like,” Sandy said.

“It gives(ProKick) an opportunity to get more exposure.”

Place

Stableford

Grade AWinners: A-1 Weir,Liam (6) 42

Grade BWinners: B-1Campbell, Brian (14) 38 C/B

Grade CWinners: C-1 Allen, Ray(29) 41

Sandyremembered he didn’t experience much “culture shock”whenmakingthe move from Traralgon to Fort Worth.

“I often say that Fort Worth sort of feels like a small town,” Sandy said.

Despite this feeling, the populationofFortWorth is nearing one million, almost 35 times more than the population of Traralgon.

“Thebuzz and stuffaround the town is just crazy right now,” Sandy said.

“You can’t go into astore without someone congratulatingyou, wantingpictures and autographs.”

Could you imagine if local Gippsland footballers were askedfor autographs while they roamed their local streets?

Sandy has made huge progress during the four years he has spent at TCU, where alongside football he has completed an undergraduate course in communications, minoring in psychology.

Due to COVID, he will be allowed to complete an unconventional fifth year, where he will continue to play forTCU, as well as complete amaster’sdegree.

“I think I’ve come along way, Ioriginally didn’t know much about American Football at all to begin with,” Sandy said.

“My first season, Ididn’t do as well as I’d hoped.

“I love Fort Worth and America, I’m hoping to stay here long-term.”

Duringfouryears at TCU,Sandy’shighlight of his college football careercomes from aroundamonth ago, when TCU played Baylor Bears.

Sandy, who also plays as aholder for the field goal kicker, played an important part in the dying stages.

“Wekicked afield goalwithtimeexpiring,” he said.

“We won on the siren

“If he missed that, then we wouldn’t be in the position we’re in, because we would’ve lost.

“Toget to the position we’reinnow, we had to basically be undefeated.

“(Griffin Kell) made the kick and we got swamped by the whole team.”

That might be Sandy’s career highlight now, but if TCU win, Idaresay he might update that record.

Sandy urges Aussies to take the “leap of faith” if an opportunity arises to train with ProKick.

“Aussieswho go (to America),they adapt so well,” he said.

“Over here, you’re treated likeaprofessional, the facilities for example -it’s insane.

“It’s probablyasgood, if not betterthan AFL clubs.”

With just one more season of collegefootball left, Sandyhopes to make the most of it.

“I’d obviously love to get ashot at the next level, but with me stayingontoplay college another year, I’mkind of remindedthatIturn 30 (this) year,” Sandy said.

The CFP National Championship was played at SoFi Stadium in California.

SoFi Stadium recently hosted Super Bowl 56 between Los AngelesRamsand Cincinnati Bengals, which had acrowd of more than 70,000 people.

By the time this paper rolls out, either Traralgon’s Jordy Sandy or Dumbalk’s Brett Thorson will be acollege football champion.

AGrade

Grade AWinners: A-1Lugton, Nathan (7) 68

Grade BWinners: B-1Gauci, Anthony (18) 68

Grade CWinners: C- 1Allen, Ray(29) 74

Place Getters: Donaldson, Murray 70, Taylor,Nicholas 73, Eastaway,Karl74c/b, Mead, Barry74, Stansbury, Les 76 c/b, Thomson, Bruce 76,Fife, Mark76c/b Howard,Bernard76, Weir,Liam 77 c/b, Shaw, Geoff77c/b,Stephens,Peter 77 c/b

Gross Winner: Nathan Lugton 75

TRAFALGAR

4th Jan– Stableford

Winner: AngeBayley(23) with 41 points Runner-Up: Sue Klemke(23) with 40 points Down The Line: Anne Outhred with 40 points,Bev Keilyand KarenMacGregor with 38 points Nearest the pins: 5th BevKeilyand 11th Di Moody 9-Hole Winner: Sue Williams (33) with 23 points

Runner-Up: VivDavywith(30) with 18 points Gobblers: Ange Bayleyonthe 13th Winnersof4BBB Knock-Out wasKaren Swingler and Cheryl Deppeler MOE Saturday, 31 December 2022 LADIES

SATURDAY STABLEFORD

Grade AWinners: A-1Middlemiss,Kaye (15) 38

Place Getters: 3White, Lockie 40 C/B,4 Taylor,Amy 40, 5Barlow, Mark39, 7Mead, Barry38C/B,8 Wilson,Lee 38 C/B,9 Collings,Dale 38, 10 Poole,Joel 37 C/B,11 O’Mara, Paul 37 C/B,12Reynolds ,Dale 37 C/B,13Carolan, Anthony37C/B,14Brien, Graeme 37 C/B,15White, Rodney37, 16 Weir,Martin 36 C/B,17O’mara, James 36 C/B,18Murdoch, Aaron 36 C/B,19 Kornacki, Henry36C/B,20Lang,Marj 36 C/B,21Papettas, Maurice36C/B

Great Score: Eric Beveridge (Birdie) @14, Shannon Borg(Birdie)@4,Jenna Robertson (Birdie) @4,Lee Wilson (Birdie) @14, Brayden Taylor (Birdie) @4

Nearest to Pin: 4th RobKing, 8th Karen Shaw, 14th BrianJenkins

WOMEN’S

Saturday, 07 January 2023

SATURDAY

Grade AWinners: A-1Stewart,Leahann (33) 41

Great Score: Christine Elliot (Birdie) @4 Jenna Robertson (Birdie) @13

Saturday, 07 January 2023 MEN’S Stroke

Overall Winners: 2Gauci, Anthony(18)69 Medal Winner

Great Score: Martin Weir birdie @8,Daniel Beyerbirdie @14, Paul Spiteribirdie @8, Graham Kerr birdie @14

Nearest to Pin: 4th WallyWilkinson, 8th Paul Spiteri, 14th Karl Eastaway

MIRBOO NORTH

Thursday5th Janurary,Stableford.

AGrade: RFerlmingham (17) 44pts

BGrade: RHoskin (30) 42pts

DTL: RPentland 41, MWoodall 39, J Smeriglio 38, EWoodall 38, PCummaudo 37

NTP: 4th MPayne,16th WReynolds

Birdies: 4th MPayne,NSpark, R Thompson, 6th, RMatthews,D Woodall.

Saturday7th Janurary,Stroke

AGrade: DScurlock(2) 72

BGrade: NWhichello (18) 67

DTL: PCummaudo 69, JKus 70, SDuff, M Richter,SHill-Smith73.

NTP: 4th, TBradshaw, 6th SBeitz, 13th T Bradshaw, 16th DScurlock.

Birdies: 4th JMcFarlane,6th SBeitz.

TRAFALGAR Friday,January 6th 2022, Open Men’s& Ladies Stableford

NTP’s:

LAWN BOWLS

STRZELECKI NORTH

Novice Singles: L. Smith -YallournNorth Bowling Club 21 shots def.S.SinnottMorwell Club,The 9shots M. Reynolds -Morwell Club,The 19 shots def.byD.Earl- Traralgon RSLBowling Club 21 shots

Men’s Champion of Champion: S. Collins -Morwell Bowling Club 15 shots Def.byI Miles -Trafalgar Bowls Club 25 shots

Ladies Champion of Champions: S. Atkinson -Drouin Bowling Club 25 shots def.K.Sheers- Neerim District Bowling Club 16 shots

STRZELECKI SOUTH

Novice Singles: C. Floyd-Corinella Bowling Club 10 shots def.byL.ThomasPhillip Island Bowling Club 21 shots

P. Ashton- Loch &District Bowling ClubP Ashton- Loch &District Bowling Club won on countback

Champion ofChampions Singles: R. Cosson -KorumburraBowling Club 24 shots def.byP.Michael -Leongatha Bowls Club 25 shots

L. Dowson -Inverloch Bowling Club 24 shots def.byJ.Jeeves- Wonthaggi Bowls Club 25 shots

Entries close forthe Statepairson Tuesday10th January, Midweek pennant resumes on Tuesday10th and Saturday on 14 Januarywiththe StatePairson Sunday15.

Roost: JordySandy in actionfor TCU HornedFrogs

Home grown: Traralgon’s JordySandy flying theAustralian flag in the U.S. photographs contributed

TDCA second half of season awaits

CRICKET TDCA

THE Traralgon District Cricket Association returns this weekend after alonger than usual Christmas break.

There are nine rounds remaining before finals, and everymatch willhave huge ramifications for every team, so its crucial all clubshit the ground running this first weekend back

All clubs will have taken stock over the break and reflected on what’s gone right and wrong so far this season, so why not have alook at the mid-season report cards of all TDCA clubs right now  Ex Students (ladder positions: A Grade 2nd; BGrade 1st; CGrade 1st)

THE Sharks are again showing just how strong their club is, as they currently lead the overallclub championship at the halfway point of the season.

Agood mixture of experience and youthisbeing showcased across all grades, and eventhough it’s starting to look like there is aperiod of transition coming for Ex Students, there hasn’t beenadip in standard, withtheir A Grade having only lost one match for the season while Band CGrade arein the same boat.

The Good: Lee Stockdale has gotten himself into ripping formbefore he heads off to the Australian Country Cricket Championships, and if he carries this form through to March the Sharks will be firm favouritesagaintotakehome the premiership shield. Jimmy Pryde has lead from the front all season and Matt Dyke is having afantastic season as well with the bat averaging 45.2 as an opening batsman, whilethe more games the club can get into future stars such as Nathan Thomson and Zachary Bastin all the while giving them overs to bat and bowl, the better.

The Bad: It’s hard to find afault in the cluborinfact any of theirteams at the moment, and if there are any, winning certainlycovers over the cracks well. Thefacility upgrades at Traralgon Showgroundswill be awelcome sight when they finally get the tick of approval, but the ground andwicket have been playing quitewell this season, and it has been areliable venue when weather has impacted games, so again it’s hard to find afault at Ex Students.

Overall: A+ Theseason is shaping nicely for Ex Students with all three grades set to feature in finals againthis year. Withplenty of depth and aruthless attitude combined withplenty of good winsalready on the board,the Sharks are in prime position and as aclub, they are certainly the best performed so far in 2022/23.

 Glengarry (A Grade 1st; BGrade 5th; CGrade 3rd)

THE Magpies are flying high this season in AGrade,having not lost amatch so far.

Some dominating performances as a team and then some brilliant individual efforts have them firm favourites for the AGrade premiership.

The club’s BGrade hashad some mixed results but have shown they are capable of big scores, and will continue to push for afinals position, while Ash Hodson is blooding someyoung players in CGrade,winning more games already this season than they did last season.

TheGood: As previously mentioned, AGrade is flying and Nat Freitag will have his team primed for March. The team is chock full of stars and seems to be settled, but pressure is coming from the lower grades for spots such as Chris Dunn who notched up amassive154 in BGrade against Imperials, so the A Grader’swontbeabletotaketheir spot for grantedatall.Cam Graham and Nathan Allen lead the club for wickets, but the best thing skipper Freitag is doing for Glengarry this season is giving Gareth Waack-Hawkins the responsibility of taking the new ball, which is not only fast-tracking his development as ayoung bowler, but it’s proven to be a masterstroke as he currently averages 15.83 and is repaying the faith being shown.

The Bad: Theonly worry for Glengarry in AGrade at themoment will be whetherthey can continue their fantastic form throughout the whole season or have they peaked too early? Knowing the class of the playing group it won’t be an issue and this is only mentioned due to needing something to write in this space. Their home ground and wicket continued to be washed out early in the season when the weather was poor, but shouldn’tbea concern now as the weather improves although it didn’t take much to have abad affect on the ground, so hopefullyit’sclear skies from now on.

Overall: A+ Glengarry are the team to beat in AGrade this season. Their lower grades, whohavestruggled the lastcoupleofseasons,haveimproved massively and lookset to feature in C Grade finals come March while BGrade will push for aspot all season.

 Gormandale (A Grade 7th; BGrade 7th)

IT’S been atough season for the Tigers, who haven’t won amatch yetinA or BGrade

The clubwas rocked aweek before the season started when vicepresidentand opening bowler Dylan Freitag walked out on the club, and missingearly matches due to weather certainly didn’t help as they played only two matches in the first seven rounds. Still, players who work hard get rewarded for effort, and at the moment Gormandalejust aren’t putting the effort in off field to turn their season around.

The Good: What’s been good at Gormandale is the focus on youth, as playerssuch as Tom Gafa, Hayden Richards, Campbell Peavey, Ethan

Jarvis and Tyler Reynolds, who are all 18 or under, are all stringing together AGrade matches, whichwill be crucial forthe club moving forward. The young players need to take their opportunities and produce abit more, but they all have acrackand have shown abit this season so hopefully for the Tigers they continue to improve.

The Bad: They haven’t won agame for the season which is obviously not great. The club’s senior players aren’t playing smart cricket and even though they have shown glimpses of what can be, they still aren’t putting in enough effort and playing ateam game which sometimes means grinding out a20or parking the ego when things get tough and the opposition are on abit of aroll.

Overall: D- The Tigers are at arisk of failing this season, however, this is exactly what happenedtothemlastseason as AGrade didn’t win amatchuntil after Christmas, then got on arun to only miss out on finals by one point. This is aclub that can turn thingsaround. Gormandale have the personnel to push the best teams in the competition, but if they don’t work hard to achieve these wins it’s going to be atough finish to the season.

 Imperials (A Grade 5th; BGrade 4th; CGrade 4th)

IMPERIALS continue to fight and scrap in every match and have developed a hardworking brand under leadership duo Ryan Morley and Lee Farley.

There is plenty of potential at the cluband although the BGrade team currently sit fourth on the ladder, they are certainly in contention for the flag this season, while in Aand CGrade,if acouple more games go their way they could also feature in finals this season.

The Good: Ryan Morleyhas been dominant this season and currently leads the league in runs and average which is asuperb effort for an opening batsman. This may also be bad for the club because any Premier Cricket Club looking for their next recruit should be getting in touch as the Melbourne-based Morley has proven he can make runs in all conditions against quality opposition so the call may come this year. Yes he needssupport, but if he can finish his season the way it started, Brett Chapman’s runs record of 659 forthe club might be at risk of being beaten.

The Bad: The club’s selections seem to be thehardest thing to combat at the moment,with players not being available each week. Imperials have used 24 players already in Aand BGrade this season, with players frequently jumping between allthree grades.Itmay be a masterstroke come finalstime, with BGrade then having lots of players to pick from if AGrade don’t make it, but if Morleycan lock downthatcore group of players from five to six in AGrade to acommitted eight-nine his job will become much more easier as aleader.

Overall: B Off field the club is flying

and on field they have agenuine shot at playing finalsinatleast two grades. The ground has finally dried out which was amajor concern beforethe Christmas break,and if the curators can continue to produce wickets where scoresof250-plus are being made and chaseddowninstead of wickets which havenograss andstay low, then the club’s finish to the season has all the potential in the world.  Rovers (A Grade 6th; BGrade 6th; CGrade 5th)

THIS was supposed to be the season that boys becamemen and theRoversCricket Club made an impact in the TDCA A Grade finals, but unfortunately it hasn’t happened.

Rovershave more coachesand support staff than any other club in the TDCA, but it may be acase of ‘too many cooks spoil the broth’asthe focus of some of the best players at the club isn’t on improving and winning games but more about individual achievements.

Rovers haveplayed moregames than any other team this season, due to Duncan Cameron Park beingthe best playing surface/wicket combination in Gippsland, but they haven’t been able to make the most of it and have not lived up to the preseason hype yet.

The Good: Ewan Williamsishaving a very good season with the bat and Simon Duffishaving agood seasonwiththe ball, and if they continue they should win afew more games and challenge some of the better teams in the competition.

The Bad: Rovers have bowled181 extras so far this season, with 128 of those extras being wides. That’s an incredible 22.6 extras averaged a match, which means if club’s bat their total overs against Rovers they will get at least 20 free runs to go to their score.

On abatting friendly surface like DCP, Rovers justcan’t afford to give up so many runs as they are only making it harder on themselves every match.

Overall: C- Rovers have allthe talent in the world and should be a formidable force in the TDCA, but at the moment theyaren’t. This can get turned aroundbut only if the club all pull one way and focusoncricket rather than letting themselves get distracted.

If the bowling tightens up and starts of 15 get converted to big scores, Rovers can push for finals in all three grades so watch this space.



Toongabbie (A Grade 4th; BGrade 2nd; CGrade 6th)

THERams have been affected by rain more than any other club so far this season, with their ground being waterlogged and unfit for play for most of the campaign so far.

The wickethowever has been magnificent and they’ve been able to make the most of it already for afew games, having goodwinsoverGormandale and Imperials at home.

Toongabbie’s BGrade is flying along and although CGrade aresitting on the

bottom, they’re only agame and ahalf outside the top four so things are going well at Toongabbie in 2022/23 to date.

The Good: The Rams know they are ateam that lifts in the finals, so they won’t be bothered about sitting fourth in AGrade at themoment because they can match it with anyone on their day. Kev Stoddart and Rob Wheildon are in good form withthe bat and Keenan Hughes has taken four-wicket hauls in his last two matches, so if this form continues they’ll be alock for afinalsberth.

TheBad: An injury-hampered Tom Shippen and playerssuch as Jason Veneman and Sam Moran not always beingavailable may hurt the AGrade teaminsomegames, but so farithasn’t. It gives more opportunity to some fringe players for sure, but if they aren’t able to get their full team on the park leading into finals it may hurt their chances, as some teams outside the top four will be waiting for them to slip up.

Overall: B The Rams are tracking nicely and should feature in the finals in both Aand BGradeunlesssomething disastrous happens. They won’t needto change muchupafter Christmas (apart from maybenot sending Glengarry into bat if they win the toss next time they play them) and if everyone hits form at the right time in both Aand BGrade, who knows what could happen.

 Yarram &District (A Grade 3rd; B Grade 3rd; CGrade 2nd)

YARRAM are young, fit and hungry who don’tbackdown to anyoneinany grade.

The Pelicans boast avery complete pace bowling attack, and are devastating with the bat if they get themselves in, which is why they are the most talked about team in the TDCA.

The Good: Ahuge turf bench awaits the first round back after Christmas, and in the middle of that bench is a beautiful looking wicket.This now meansthe Yarram District AGrade team are nomads no more, and will be able to play home games in Yarram on turf whichismagnificent not just for the Pelicans but for the entire TDCA.

The Bad: It’s tough to single out a young player, butMatthew Garland has struggled against the new ball this season, only scoringdoublefigures once while opening in AGrade.The good thing for the young gun is that he is being backed in by his captain, and although he’s had alean season so far abig score isn’t far away now that the Christmas break has finished and the wickets flatten out.

Overall: A Thisisthe best run club in the competition, and it’s transferring overtoon-fieldsuccess. ThePelicans will be aimingtoremedy their disappointment in losing the CGrade Premiership last season and also losing the BGrade semi-final, while in AGrade,they will take any challenge head-on.

Star: Ryan Morley has led Imperials impeccably so farthis season.Imps willbeout to pushfor afinalsberth in the secondhalfofthe Traralgon District CricketAssociation season. file photograph

Match in thebalance at Apex

CRICKET LVDCL AGRADE

BY LIAM DURKIN

ANEW year presented new opportunities in the Latrobe ValleyDistrict Cricket League for competitors in the AGrade division.

The match between Centrals and Mirboo North looks to be the most intriguing heading into day two.

CENTRALS must have thought they were receiving alateChristmas present when they had Mirboo North 2/0.

The Tigers elected to bat first at Apex Park, but

found the going tough against the Lions new-ball pairing of Marc Fenech and Rob Webber.

Both had the Kookaburra talking, and reduced Mirboo North to 4/21, before asteady 79-run partnership between Zach Hollis and Dom Davis took the score to triple figures.

Hollis made afine 53 and Davis played patiently, scoring 49 off 154 balls.

In ascorecardthat featured five globes, their efforts helped the Tigers to atotal of 159.

English spinner Joe Stuart enjoyed the conditions, and ended with 4/23 -three of which were unassisted.

Fenechbowled 18 overs, half of which were

maidens, to see the book read 2/26, while Webber nabbed 2/23.

While the bowling was top shelf, battingdemons again crippled Centrals, who went into stumps 3/19.

The Lions shut up shop in the 15 overs they had to survive, but this playedinto the Tigers hands as they were able to reallyrampupdot ball pressure.

Max Woodall conceded just one run in six overs, and will have his tail up heading into day two.

Centrals need 140 and Mirboo North needsseven wickets.

Who are you backing?

WILLOW GROVE gotits first taste of two-day cricket.

The Wolves were sent in by Traralgon West at McGregor Reserve, Yallourn North, and saw out close to 60 overs as they compiled 127.

Afew startspunctuatedthe innings; Nathan Wheildon, Josh Coombs and PeteGrima all getting into the 20s.

Ben McCormack bowled 21 overs across two spells, and was rewarded for his intelligence with afive-wicket haul. Not wanting to waste energy, the man known as ‘Laz’ found good shape bowling off afew steps, and was very hard to get away.

It proved to be aproductive day for the Ben’s, as Jeeralang-Boolarracaptain Ben Heathtookthree wickets, and wicket-keeper Ben Duffywas very clean behind the stumps, taking four catches, two standing up to the quicks.

When Brown walked to the wicket, at least one Trafalgar player had his whites on ready to field, but what transpired in the last 10 overs left all in the red and white delirious with delight for the unlikely last wicket success.

Heathcote, finally using abat long enough for aman of hisheight, knocked the ball around and gotthe oddboundary away, and before too long, thoughts of amaiden AGrade half-century were on the cards.

JAlexander cunknown bFenech

SRogers. bStuart.

CSchellekens lbw bStuart.

159

Centrals Bowling: MFenech 18-9-26-2, RWebber 12-4-23-2, R Hefer 11-2-25-0, THourigan5-0-17-0, JStuart15.3-4-23-4, CPollard 10-2-19-1, LSpeairs6-1-22-1

Centrals First Innings

WHenry cDavis bThomas 0

RWebber bWoodall 9

SGray. cunknown bBanks 9 THourigan. not out 1 BWilliamson not out 0

Extras (nb 0, w0,b0,lb0). 0 Overs. 15 Total. 3/19

Mirboo North Bowling: MWoodall 6-5-1-1, AThomas 5-0-10-1, D Banks 2-0-8-1, JAlexander 2-2-0-0

JEERALANG-BOOLARRA vTRAFALGAR

TrafalgarFirst Innings

AGeorge cDuffy bHeath 65

LWhite. cDuffy bMcCormack. 18

RHoldsworth. cHewawasambMcCormack..95

AConnolly. cDuffy bHeath 5

RWhite. lbw bMcCormack. 14

DHeathcote. not out 66

Co Burgess cSmith bDeSilva 2

JNoonan bMcCormack. 3

OMcLeod-Agland lbw bMcCormack. 0 LDurkin lbw bHeath 0 ZBrown not out 14 Extras (nb 4, w7,b5,lb3). 19 Overs. 85 Total. 9/301

Jeeralang-BoolarraBowling: LSmith 11-1-40-0, BHeath 14-3-63-3, D Gregor 11-2-48-0, BMcCormack21-5-57-5, HHewawasam 8-1-17-0,

NThillekarathna 14.3-3-32-0, SDeSilva 5.3-0-36-1

WILLOW GROVE vTRARALGONWEST

Willow GroveFirstInnings

JHammond lbw bRasool 3

BHams. lbw bFitch 15

NWheildon bFalla 24

AWilkes bFalla 13

AJames lbw bFitch. 0

PGrima cLever-Makin bEdebohls 20

NWeatherhead .stMonacella bThow. 14

JCoombs cZafar bFalla 21

KMulley. lbw bRasool 0

Dvan der Stoep .c Monacella bLever-Makin 3 DWalsh not out 0

Extras (nb 1, w0,b11, lb 2) 14

Overs. 59 Total. 127

TraralgonWest Bowling: BEdebohls 10-2-31-1, SRasool 8-3-10-2, RFalla 15-5-43-3, BLever-Makin10-3-18-1, TFitch 9-4-9-2, AThow 7-4-3-1

Traralgon West First Innings

IZafar cWilkes bGrima 2

BEdebohls lawb Walsh. 14

SRasool lbw bWheildon 18

RWilkie not out 12

AThow. not out 2

Extras (nb 1, w1,b 3, lb 2) 7

Overs. 32

Total. 3/55

WillowGrove Bowling: PGrima 4-3-1-1, NWheildon 9-4-8-1, J Coombs 3-1-12-0, AWilkes 3-2-2-0, DWalsh 8-2-16-1, JHammond 3-0-8-0, NWeatherhead 2-1-3-0

Coombs batted nearly two hours, in what was a good show of application on atricky pitch.

Sharing was caring for the Eagles’ bowlers, as all six used added anumber to the wickets column.

Reece Falla againlaidclaim to being the most underrated slow bowlerinthe competition, taking 3/43 off 15 overs.Tim Fitch and Salman Rasool shouted twiceand were successful on both occasions, each getting two lbw decisions to go their way.

Debutant Bobby Lever-Makin provided ahighlight, taking his first AGrade wicket.

Traralgon West is 3/55 at stumps.

The Wolves showed good signs with the ball, especially Nathan Wheildonand youngspinner Darcy Walsh, who both trapped batsman in front.

The Eagles will resume this Saturday with Rob Wilkie and nightwatchman AdamThow at the crease.

Willow Grovelooks to have addedsome seniority to theirranks, with AnthonyWilkes playing his first AGrade game for the club at the weekend. Wilkes, awell-travelled player on the local scene with alot of AGrade experience, could be just the type the Wolves need to provide some assistance and guidance.

IT is oneofthe greatmysteries why Trafalgar gets sledged every week for having along tail. A58-runpartnership for the 10th wicket between Daniel Heathcote and Zack Brown took the Ships past 300 against Jeeralang-Boolarra. Their work backed-up the efforts of Rhys Holdsworth and Aiden George earlier in the day, whoscored95and 65 respectively on the Boolarra astro

George cut the ball particularly well, and scored 40 of his65runs in boundaries. Holdsworth’s innings just had abit of everything. Aftergetting to 1/132attea, the visitors lost a few wickets against the run of play, and toward the end of the last session, there was areal possibility the Panthers would be batting.

The 50-run partnership was broughtup, as Brown played the supportingrole perfectly, getting off strike when needed and defending toward the backend of the over.

With some in the Trafalgar camp having already jinxed Holdsworth in the 90s, afew contemplated whatHeathcote’s response wouldbeifheended up stranded on 49, however his milestone moment eventually came.

The biggest cheer of the day was reserved when Heathcote raised the bat, and he duly lapped up the applause of 10 teammates whowere genuinely stoked for him.

While ahalf-century batting at number six might not seem like much to celebrate, in fairnessto Heathcote, he has generally always come in down the order and only had enough time to make 20s and 30s.

LikeHeathcote, thereisalways somethingheartwarming whenplayersprimarily in theside for their bowling manage to get a‘proper score’.

It was said when Glenn McGrath retired and was asked what his favourite career moment was he simply replied with asmile: “61”. (His highest Test score).

In the wash-up, Trafalgar’stotal of 9/301 was their first 300-plus score since the 2014/15 semi-final.

As forthe 58-runfinal wicket partnership, it was the equal-third highest for the Ships in the MyCricket era (since 2004/05).

GraemeRankinand DamienMann putonthe same amount in 2007/08 against Garfield/Tynong, bettered by CraigNielsen and Hugh Cheatley putting on 70 against Yarragon in 2008/09.

Aiden George and James Blaser did puton69 for the 10th wicket against Thorpdale in 2014/15, although it needs to be said usual opening bat Blaser only came in for the second week.

The all-time TCC partnership recordfor the 10th wicket is 98 between Alan Rankin and Fred McCubbin on December 21961.

Presidentialpowers: Daniel Heathcote’s unbeaten 66 helped Trafalgar to astrong totalagainstJeeralang-Boolarra file photograph

Outright in sight for Cobras

CRICKET

LVDCL PREMIER A

BY LIAM DURKIN

THERE would have been afew sore boys last Sunday.

The LatrobeValleyDistrict Cricket League returned at the weekend, playing two-dayers for the first time in nearly two years.

Players settled in for the long haul, as the whites came out again along with the red ball.

First innings points are already wrapped up in one Premier Amatch,while thechase is on in the other two heading into the second week.

THEY don’t call him the King Cobra for nothing.

John Keighran well and truly brought out the JK-47 for Churchill, smashing 109 not out from 79 balls to take his side to alead of 89 at stumps against CATS.

Before the assault, Churchill bowled CATS out for 75 at George Cain Oval.

Apartfrom winning the toss, not much went right for the visitors, as only Josh Moore was able to make much of an impression in the scorebook with 26 at the top of the order.

Kian Farnworth and Matt Harvey took two wickets each for the Cobras, bowling aroundSteve Warr who was at his miserly best.

It was classic ‘Tugga’ lines from the medium pacer, and he finished with figures of 4/25 from 17 overs with seven maidens.

WithCATSbowled out halfway through the day, time was never going to be an issue for Churchill when they approached their batting innings.

CATS found somejoy with the new ball, and had the Cobras 3/21, but Keighran soon crushed their spirits as he whacked 14 balls into the rope and two over it.

Moore made another contribution for CATS, this time taking 3/18.

The home sideended the day 5/164, andwith Keighran still at the crease, one would assume the skipper will bat on and eye off an outright going into day two.

SATURDAY,January 7, 2023 shall now be known as the day Clancy Mills became aman.

Raiders put up agreat score against Morwell, making 277 at home.

The innings was highlighted by amaiden Raiders century to Alex Burcombe, and an outstanding knock of 63 from young Clancy Mills opening the batting.

Just one year out from Under 16s, Mills defied the premiership fancies, stroking half adozen boundaries and seeingoff virtually30overs worth

of ballsduringhis stay at the crease.

His efforts helped Raiders immensely, and laid asolid base in which they could build.

Coincidently, he facedsomeone with the same surname. The Morwell Mills, stand-in skipper

Cricket match all tied up between Maffra, Bundy

CRICKET

By TOM PARRY

THE very rareoccurrence of atie happened in local cricket last Saturday.

Not farfromthe LatrobeValley, scores were deadlocked betweenMaffraand Bundalguah in the Sale-Maffra Cricket Association.

Bundalaguah elected to bat first and got off to a flyer, at Cameron Sporting Complex, making 29 runs in the first six overs.

Maffra madeabreakthrough in the very next over, with Bull’s captain Jason Langshaw caught for 17.

Morewickets fellfive overs later,with Steve Spoljaric, Kshitiz Sharmaand Nick French all lost in quick succession -the latter run out for a golden duck (not adiamond, as he did face aball according to MyCricket).

Then, just before the drinks break, the Bulls lost their danger man, LachlanWrigglesworth, who went out leg before to Ben Durrant on 27.

Although James Read and Chris Smart provided some resistance, no other batter could replicate theperformanceofWrigglesworth, with Bundy losing all their wickets by the 34th over for 103.

Josh Davis,making just his third appearance for Maffra this season, took 3/13 off seven overs.

The Eagles’ start was not as strong as Bundy’s, with the opening Bens -Sly and Harrington -making six runs before the former was bowled in the third over.

Harrington made astand with coach Lee Hopkins over the next four overs, which transpired as the most fruitful partnership of Maffra’s innings. Sadly,the pairmade just 24 runsbefore Harrington was caught for eight.

At the halfway point, Maffra was 5/54. Things began to look up for the Eagles in the 22nd over, when Davisand Miller Eastham added 11 runs off the bowling of Gayashan Munasinghe,

only for both men to lose their wickets immediately after.

The tail-enders, led by Dylan Freitag, hung on to be within nine runs of victory by the 35th over, despite having just one wicket in hand.

Maffra was still in contention by the final over, having whittled the deficit down to just one run.

Youngster Hamish Anderson was given the unenviable task of defending Bundy’s razor-thin margin.

His first ball was adot to Freitag, his second also adot.

On his third delivery, Freitag managed asingle.

Scores were now dead-even, and Hennig only had to make one run to secure the win for Maffra.

Easier saidthan done-Anderson’s fourth ball was adot, as was his fifth.

On the final ball, in alast-gasp effort to clinch the game, the batsmen tried for asingle, only for Freitag to be run outbyathrow from Spoljaric in the field.

It just had to be Spoljaric who had the final say.

Thus, atied game was declared.

Some would argue that the Bulls’ wayward bowling is what cost them the win -they conceded 16 wides across the innings

Hayden Wrigglesworth was Bundy’s best with 4/16 off eight overs, followed by Sharmawith 3/18.

One benefit of the resultisthat both teams earned ashare of points, receiving three each.

On the downside, their chances of clawing back into the top four are diminishing, with Bundy and Maffrasitting13points and 15 points,respectively, behind fourth-placed Rosedale-Kilmany.

Are you aware of any tied cricket matches in Gippsland cricket history?

Let our newsroom know by emailing sport@ lvexpress.com.au

The 2008/09 Sale-Maffra CA Grand Final ended in atie. The premiership was awarded to Maffra by virtue of finishing on top of the ladder.

Blake, ended the day with 5/85.

If there was commentators in local cricket, they would have surely delighted in the fact they could have said ‘Mills dismissed by Mills’ when Clancy was eventually caught with the score 4/168.

LVDCL

From there, Burcombe continued on, and went at agoodclipashemade116 off 124 balls,with16 fours and asix,following on from the good work of Mick Higgins, who chimed in with 26 off 32 earlier in the piece.

Greg Harveysent down19oversfor Morwell and took 3/49.

The final wicket fell precariously close to the end of the day, so close in fact the Tigers were forced to face one over.

Morwell survived six agonising balls, and will be looking to make sure their bats get agood hit at training this week as they prepare to chase the required total in what is wicket-keeper Scott Douglas’ 100th match.

MOE played classic day one Test match cricket.

Taking on Latrobe at Ted Summerton Reserve, the Lions finished the day with 226 on the board and four wickets in the hut.

The unavailability of star batsman Andrew Philip on day one did not deter Moe at the toss, and they still elected to bat first, much to their credit.

Knowing there was agood chance the Sharks would have sent them in regardless, it is likely the Lions were mentally prepared to bat anyway.

Moe was in aspotofbother early,sinking to 3/17, before the wise headsofRob Phoenixand Ash Savige put on 54 for the fourth wicket.

Phoenix made 38, while Savige contributed a gutsy 46 off 135 balls.

If Moe has atrophy for most reliable, Savige would have to be astrongcontender. More often than not he just seems to do what is required for the team.

Callum Grant and Jarryd Atkinson picked up the slack later in the day; Grant top scoring with 57.

Atkinson is 37 not out, and has Royce Colgrave on 24 for company heading into day two.

Moe can bat on if they like, and may justgive Colgrave alicence to swing. If he connects with a few,the Lions could easily get up around280-300

Latrobe’s bowlers did agood job all things considered, keeping the run rate hovering at 2.5 an over.

TyronGamage was again the pick, taking 3/39 off 23 overs with 12 maidens, working in tandem with coach LachlanDobson, who snared 2/55off the same amount.

Spinners Hiran Rajapakse and StevenFreshwater also contained well; the former only going for 24 runs off 12 overs, and the latter, 33 off 15.

cDobson bGamage 5 ASavige. bGamage 46 CGrant cChokunungabFreshwater 57 JAtkinson not out 37 RColgrave not out 24 Extras (nb 0, w3,b7,lb3). 13 Overs. 89 Total. 6/226

Latrobe Bowling: TGamage 23-12-39-3, LDobson 23-5-55-2, M Metcalfe8-1-40-0, HRajapakse 12-3-24-1, JBloomfield 7-1-24-0, S Freshwater 15-1-33-1, MZomer 1-0-1-0

RAIDERS vMORWELL

Raiders First Innings

CMills cBrincat bMills 63 GChesire. lbw bPickering 5 MHiggins cWhelpdale bMills 26 LMaynard cPickering bHarvey. 16 ABurcombe cSeymour bHarvey. 116 BMacFarlane lbw bMills 1 CStanlake. c& bWhelpdale 8 THutchinson cClymo bMills 23 MPerera. cFortuin bHarvey. 0 BBurrows. not out 10 HMcColl lbw bMills 1 Extras (nb 3, w1,b3,lb1). 8 Overs. 83.5 Total. 277

Morwell Bowling: TPickering 7-0-22-1, BMills 17.5-5-85-5, BBrincat 14-3-58-0, RWhelpdale 18-6-35-1, GHarvey19-6-49-3, MCukier 8-1-24-0

MorwellInnings

LDay not out 1 MCukier not out 0 Extras (nb 0, w0,b0,lb0). 0 Overs. 1 Total. 0/1

RaidersBowling: GChesire1-0-0-1

CHURCHILL vCATS

CATS First Innings

JCochrane cKellyb Farnworth. 4 JMoore cKearns bHarvey. 26 SGissara. cRae bHolt. 3 JKeyhoe bWarr 5

DKeyhoe cWilliams bWarr 8 MBellingham lbw bHarvey. 3 CStewart cKearnsb Warr 1 EPorigneaux cKelly bWarr 0 BHagley. bFarnworth. 12 BFoster .c Holt bWilliams 5 CMcDonald not out 4 Extras (nb 0, w0,b3,lb1). 4 Overs. 46.3 Total. 75

Churchill Bowling: KFarnworth 9.3-5-11-2, KHolt6-2-10-1, SWarr 17-7-25-4, JKeighran 4-0-11-0, MHarvey7-4-7-2, CWilliams 3-0-7-1

Churchill First Innings MHarvey. cunknown bMoore 1 BKearns cDKeyhoe bMoore 7 RVelardi cGissarabBellingham 19 SWarr cDKeyhoe bMoore. 1 JKeighran not out 109 NDuncan st DKeyhoe bJKeyhoe 14 KHolt. not out 9 Extras (nb 0, w2,b1,lb1). 4 Overs. 40 Total. 5/164

CATS Bowling: CStewart9-4-16-0, JMoore 11-4-18-3, MBellingham 8-0-47-1, JCochrane 4-0-25-0, JKeyhoe6-0-47-1, BHagley 2-0-9-0

PREMIERB GRADE

Morwell 3/180 (C Giddens 75*, GGniel48*, J Seymour 28) def Moe 6/165(cc) (M Micallef 53, E Sheekey 29*, NDay 2/19, GGniel 2/29); Centrals 9/154(cc) (A Slimmon 39, ALowater2/15) defby Thorpdale 4/210(cc) (K O’Connell 71, JDurkin 43, MPowell 43, TShankland 2/38); Newborough 9/152(cc) (Z Dowdell 38, SWernham 31) def Jeeralang-Boolarra130; BYE- Mirboo North BGRADE

Trafalgar 9/149 (N Gurney51*, BDawson 32, LHennessy28, JMotta 3/13, NMiller 3/28) def CATS 8/144(cc) (J Motta 63, MAnthufor 28, N Gurney3/18, JPace 2/21); Willow Grove6/122(cc) (L Donoghue 45) def by Churchill 4/211(cc) (B McQuillen 60*, SDunn 59, RJohnson 33*); Traralgon West 2/155 (M Williams 70*, SVarsaci 62*) def Raiders6/151(cc) (K Hutchinson 53, K Arora30); BYE-Latrobe

Half ajob done: Morwell’sBlakeMills willbelooking to get amongthe runs as the Tigers prepare to chase 277 againstRaiders. Mills already has five wickets to his name file photograph

Underdog wins Classic Singles

BOWLS CLASSIC SINGLES

BY LIAM DURKIN

SLOW and steady wins the race.

There was aseeminglyunlikelywinnerinthis year’s Energy Australia Classic Singles final at Newborough Bowling Club, as little-known ColinVeenendaal of Mitcham took out the title.

Amethodical Veenendaal defeated Deer Park’s Nathan Bush 17-25, breaking away late to eventually seal victory.

The field for the tournament included Commonwealth Games athletes Ali Forsyth and Kelly McKerihen, making Veenendaal’s victory atrue win for anyone who loves an underdog. While understandably ecstatic with his achievement, Veenendaal was visibly stunned by how well he performed, openly admitting he is “just an average bowler”.

“You always want to win whatever you play, but just to actually win against some really good opposition, guys that have played at the top level, andIamnot atop-level bowler… I’m ecstatic, I’ve been playing for 17 years and probably seriously for the last 12,” he said.

“I’ve played (in the Classic Singles) about seven times. First three times Ididn’t even get through my section, and then Igot through acouple of games; fifth year Igot to the quarter, and then Igot to the quarter again and now this year I’ve gone all the way.”

His opponent for last Thursday’s final did remarkably well to get as far as he did. Bush camebackfrom 11-0 down againstForsyth in the semi before takingtothe green thatsame day forthe decider.

Bush may well have played his Grand Final there and then, as he struggledtokeep up with Veenendaal for large parts of their match.

When Veenendaal took a17-12 lead, it looked to be one way traffic to the magical 25 needed for victory. When the score was 21-14, it appeared aforegone conclusion.

However, Bushrefused to surrender and fought admirably, getting three points back in one end to close the gap 21-17.

Veenendaal stayed calm, and managedtoplace his bowls around the jack in such away Bush was, in 8-ball parlance, ‘snookered’.

There was nothing more Bush could do from that point.The combatantsshook hands, said ‘goodgame’, and headed to the bar for abeer.

Veenendaal’s decisiontoplay withinhis limitations paid off in the end,and he smartly got the percentages in his favour against the more versatile Bush.

“I haven’t got the skills that these guys have got,they can do everything, Ican only just draw and play afew up-shots, not the big drives that they do,” he said.

“HowAli drives, he doesn’t muck around, if he sees something -‘bang’ he just kills it, hits it, smashes it, Idon’t play that sort of game, Ijust draw the shot and hope to hold it, sometimes it getsknocked awaybut you just draw another one and keep doing it.

“He (Bush) probably played better against Ali than he didagainst me. Sometimes when you areplaying any sport you think ‘this guy is so much better, Ihavetoplay so much better’ -you don’t. You just have to be consistent, put bowls in their head and put pressure on, sometimes people crack and sometimes they try shots that they probably don’t need to play, and in the end you can still win.”

It was this consistency that servedVeenendaal

so well, while another aspect inadvertently also gave him some advantage.

“It didn’t worry me whether Iwon or lost, there was really no pressure on me,” he explained.

Technicallyspeaking, Veenendaal was quite methodical with each shot, carefully taking his time before rolling every bowl down the green.

He played not necessary the best bowls shots, but rather the best shots for him.

“I felt like Ididn’t change my game plan at all, Iwas rolling from the tee to three-quarters, just under, he was trying to change lengths, he tried everything to put my game off, but Iplay long all the time,” Veenendaal said.

“I could have gone long if Iwanted to do but Ithought ‘no, I’m just going to do anice, easy, not hard to play shot’.

“If you go ditch-to-ditch on this the end bits are really quick, you can be ametre over and instead of finishing near the edge, it just ends up in the pit, so you put yourself under alot of pressure.”

Having been runner-up in bowls tournaments before, VeenendaalpaidtributetoBush, as well as all who took part in the Classic Singles.

“Nathan is agood player. Iwould say it took a lot out of him the previous game mentally, Ifelt Iwas maybe alittle bit lucky, my game probably wasn’t as hard as his,” he said.

“The precision that they were bowling at and the level they were bowling at took alot out of them. Idon’t knowhow Ali would have gone in the final.

“Everyone that played, even if you didn’t get

through your section, thereissome terrific players that lost.

“If you come up against Nathan Bush or Ali Forsyth first round you are going to have alot of trouble -theyare looking to get to afinal.”

The newly-crowned champion also wished to acknowledge Newborough Bowling Club head curator Scott Jones, for preparingwhathe described as “beautiful” greens.

Classic Singles chief organiser MichaelHolroyd oversaw another successful tournament.

Now into its 26th year, the four-day tournament looks set to stay as astaple local sporting event to bring in the new year.

“One of our best ever, we had avery good run with the weather,” Holroyd said.

“Excellent bowling in the finals, maybe Nathan Bushwore himself outinthe morning where he had to play extremely well to beat the New Zealand champion Ali Forsyth.

“We had five of our club members make it through theirsection day,and fourofthem made it through one round of knockout, so that is pretty good for our locals.

“I think our field was strong. The last 32 players were very competitive.”

Fromhere,Veenendaalwill continue to put his name forwardtoplay in high profiletournaments across the state, and will surely be one of the first asked back to Newborough to defend his title.

Having played at Mitcham his whole career, Veenendaalbelongs to the almost extinct classof ‘one-club player’. As good as winning the Classic Singles was, he said there was still ultimately one thing left he wanted to achieve in bowls.

“What I’d like to do is win apennant flag for Mitcham, I’d love to do that,” he said.

Note how he said ‘for Mitcham’, and not ‘at Mitcham’.

You can tell alot about clubculture simply by language.

Well done mate: Ever gracious, Nathan Bush congratulates ColinVeenendaal after the final.

Sportsmanship: Classic Singles finalists Colin Veenendaal and NathanBush together afterthe deciding match

Victory: ColinVeenendaal proudlystandsbythe scoreboard displaying hiswin in the Energy Australia Classic Singlesat Newborough BowlingClub.

Intense: ColinVeendendaal prepareshis shot,onthe waytowinning theClassic Singles watched closelybyopponent Nathan Bush. photographs liamdurkin

Actionfrom the2023 Classic Singles

Big screen: Patrons were able to watch the Classic Singles Finalfroma number of devices photograph liam durkin

Support: Energy Australia has provided backing to the event formanyyears. photograph liam durkin

Localflag: Newborough’sRod Lewis competed in the Classic Singles photograph tomhayes

Represent: AllanGrubb of Newborough. photograph tomhayes

Overseas players, sortof: Josh Walker-Davis representing WynyardinTasmania. photograph tomhayes

Focus: Classic Singlesrunner-up Nathan Bushduring thefinal. photograph liam durkin

In charge: Newborough Bowling Club chairman Alan Ryan officiates thefinal. photograph liam durkin Well-travelled: SarahBraybrook of Webbcona Bowling Club (near Ballarat). photograph tomhayes

Canadian Club: Former Canadian champion, KellyMcKerihen of Clayton. photograph tomhayes

Newage: The Classic Singles Finalwas livestreamed photograph liam durkin

Sizeup: ColinVeenendaal assesses his options during the final. photograph liamdurkin

Precision: Ryan Marston of Newborough. photograph tomhayes

Local knowledge: KevinLovettof Newborough. photograph tomhayes

Pictureofconcentration: Classic Singles champion ColinVeenendaal in thefinal photograph liam durkin

Captivated: Spectatorsenjoyedthe qualityofbowls on display.

photograph liam durkin

Been there, done that: Essendon’s Thor Shannon, 2021 Classic Singles winner. photograph tomhayes

High profile: Ali Forsyth of Clayton, former NewZealand champion and bronzemedallist at theWorld Championships photograph tomhayes

New turf wicket all set to play

CRICKET

TDCA

HISTORY will be made this weekend in Ya with Yarram District Cricket Club set t their first match on turf at Yarram Recr Reserve.

ThePelicans arescheduled to face Imp in Round 14 of the Traralgon District C Association

When Yarram District first came into the after the Alberton Cricket Association disba the PelicansAGrade teamhad to play all matches duetonot having aturfwicket.

It is TDCA policy that AGrade matches not to be played on synthetic wickets, allowances were not going to be granted to the TDCA not wanting Yarram Distric become complacent, and insteadbemotivat to install aturfwicket.

Alackofmotivation has never been a issuefor thenew club,and in only thre yearsthey havemanagedtoinstall massive6.5 wicket bench as well as ful irrigation.

This is notthe firsttime Yarram has hadaturfwicket, with the local school installing one many years ago.

Yarram is now abletohostAGrade matches as wellasfinalsand even Gippsland Cricket League fixtures, which is amassive boostfor the TDCA and for the township as well.

The first ball on the new turf will be bowled at 12 noon on Saturday.

Those in the Pelicans BGrade will no to waitlong to play on the grass, as th y rostered on this Sunday.

Maiden ton just in the Nic of time

CRICKET

By TOM HAYES AND LIAM DURKIN

GIPPSLAND’Sown NicoleFaltumplayed a captain’s knock for Victoria last Thursday, brining up her maiden List Acentury.

Faltum, alongside Ellyse Perry, smoked NSW, with the Vic’s putting up amonster 50-over score of 321 at Junction Oval.

Victoria got off to the worst of starts, with Sophie Reid run out in the firstover without facing aball, bringing Perry to the crease.

Perry enjoyed some time with the returning Australian captain Meg Lanning,before Lanning was dismissedinthe 12th overfor 29.

Faltum was introduced to the fray when Annabel Sutherland was dismissed for five, allowing Faltum and Perry to create their partnership.

It must be quite surreal for Faltum, captaining the current national team captain and arguably the greatest women’s cricketer in the world.

Three down, theVic’s powered through tough overs, keeping the scoreboard ticking over.

In her 45-or-so overs at the crease, Perry tallied acareer-bestList-A score of 147(off125 balls), striking at 117.6, creaming 23 boundaries.

Meanwhile, Faltum wasalso had oneofher best innings’ofher career, while spending 15 overs less at the crease compared to Perry.

Faltum climbed to 107 not out (110), for her maiden List-A century, smashing 16 boundaries, including two clearing the fence.

Unbeaten, Faltum saw out the 50th and final over, to then stand behind the stumps as the Vic’s went out to bowl.

In the field, Faltum took four catches from four separate bowlers.

Despite her incredible efforts, her ton and fielding qualities were outshone by Perry, who claimed the Player-of-the-Match forher knock of 147 and 2/26.

Two days later,Faltum led the Victorian’s to consecutive wins, once again backed by Perry.

Against the same opponents, this time bowling first, Victoria held NSW to 283; Faltum taking a further three catches behind the stumps.

With the bat, Perry produced back-to-backtons, withaninnings of 130 not out (95), ending the run-chase with 67 balls to spare.

Perry was with none other than Faltum, who completed the run-chase with aboundary, as she completed hershort stayatthe creasewith 13 not out (10).

Victoria travel to Queenslandtoplay two onedayers on Tuesday, January 17 and Thursday,

for

Not even saying ‘Latrobe

Faltum’wouldbetechnically correct because Trafalgar is in Baw Baw Shire by amere nine kilometres.

For simplicity sake, let’s just say Gippsland.

January19, before returning to Victoria to play Western Australia in early February.

Understandably, alot of towns around here lay claim to Faltum being one of their own.

Sheplayedjuniorcricket for Trafalgar, women’s cricket for Morwell, alittlebit of senior and juniors

Newborough, and lived in Moe.

Valley cricketer Nicole

New era: Yarram District Cricket Club’s turf wicket is ready for play

A13-year trip down memory lane

TENNIS TRARALGON INTERNATIONAL BY TOM HAYES

AS the 30th edition of the AGL Loy Yang Traralgon International is fast approaching, it would only be fitting to dig through the archives and relive some past successes.

Back in 2010, The Express previewed the 17th edition of the AGL Loy Yang Traralgon International, mentioning six Aussies that could go all the way

Those six were: Brooke Rischbieth, Mia Vriens, Kassandra Dunser,Joey Swaysland, Luke Saville and James Duckworth.

Of those six, Saville was predicted as the most-likely to go further than any other Australian, particularly in the boy’scompetition, as the highest-seeded Australian at the tournament.

Attention was shifted from Saville to an unmentioned Ben Mitchell, after Mitchell defeated Saville in straight sets to progress to the Semi Finals in the singles.

Mitchell defeated Finland’s10th seed Henri Laaksonen, who hadn’t dropped aset beforethe Semi Final, to progress to the Final, wherehe was to take on Justin Eleveld of The Netherlands.

Eleveld eliminated Australia’s Duckworth in the 3rdRound of the singles tournament, winning in a momentum-swinging match, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4.

In the Final, Mitchell won the first set 6-4, then sat 5-1 up in the

second set, serving for the match on multiple occasions, even doublefaulting while on match-point.

Eleveld then made an incredible comeback to win the second set

7-5, beforewiping the floor with Mitchell in the deciding set, 6-1, to win the tournament.

It was almost afairy-tale ending for Mitchell, some might say he

deserved to win the Final, including himself.

“Obviously,I’m very disappointed, IknowI should have won that match,” a17-year-old Mitchell told The Express in 2010.

Mitchell and Duckworth took the sting out of their singles exits, by making atremendous doubles run.

The Aussie duo got the better of the Dutchman, who ended their hopes in the singles tournament, defeating Eleveld and his partner Jannick Lupescu in straight sets, in the Quarter Finals of the doubles tournament.

Duckworth and Mitchell made light work of Semi Final counterparts Victor Baluda and RichardMuzaev, progressing to the Final after a6-4, 6-1 victory

Yettodropaset all tournament, Duckworth and Mitchell continued that way into the Final, winning in straight sets against Ireland’s Sam Barry and New Zealand’sBen McLachlan, 6-3, 6-4.

In somewhat poetic fashion, Duckworth and Mitchell overcame what was their eventual downfall in the singles tournament, which gave them the power to storm through to win the doubles title.

Duckworth and Mitchell won another title that year in the doubles format, taking out the doubles title at the ITF Junior Championships in Thailand.

Mitchell won the singles title in Thailand at the same tournament, those three titles werethe only junior ones he’d win in his career

Mitchell would appear at two Australian Open’s, eliminated in the Round of 128 twice, in 2012 and 2013.

As for Duckworth, his career reached higher heights and continues to, becoming quite the Australian fan favourite.

Duckworth reached acareer-high junior ranking of seventh in the world, comprising an 83 per cent win rate, in late 2010.

He claimed six titles as ajunior, two with Mitchell in Traralgon and Thailand, as previously mentioned.

In the open-age men’scompetition, Duckworth claimed 20 titles across singles and doubles, including consistent appearances at Gland Slams.

Duckworth has appeared in 29 Gland Slams since 2013, his best performance -a Round of 32 exit at Wimbledon in 2021 as a29-year-old, and he isn’tlooking like slowing down.

Recently,Duckworth and partner Alexei Popyrin weredefeated by Italian duo Lorenzo Sonego and Jannik Sinner in the Final of the Adelaide International, on Tuesday, January 3, 2023.

Might we see another favourite make it all the way?

Or could we chance the possibility of aroughie, like Ben Mitchell, to surprise the Traralgon crowd and make anamefor themselves?

We will know soon enough, when the tournament starts later this week.

Stillkicking: James Duckworthinaction at the 2023Adelaide International. DuckworthcompetedatTraralgon as ajunior photograph contributed

Traralgon International: ones to watch

TENNIS TRARALGON INTERNATIONAL BY TOM HAYES

THE 30th AGL Loy Yang Traralgon International commences on Friday (January 13), which will see individuals flock from all corners of the world to compete at the Traralgon Tennis Association courts.

Singles qualifying begins today (Wednesday,January 11), with the main draw beginning in two days’ time (Friday,January 13).

Forty-one nations from six continents will be represented throughout the six-day tournament, completing on Wednesday,January 18.

The highest-ranked boy to compete is 17-year-old Iliyan Radulov from Bulgaria, who boasts aranking of 14th in the world.

Radulov has three junior singles titles, two coming last year in Serbia and Germany,both on aclay surface.

Forty-one of the top-100 ranked boys in the world will be competing across the tournament, two of those areAustralians -HaydenJones (ranked 46th) and Charlie Camus (ranked 70th).

Other highly-ranked competitors include Belgium’sAlexander Blockx, ranked 15th in the world, and Cooper Williams of the USA, ranked 18th in the world.

The highest ranked girl is Japan’s Sara Saito -the highest-ranked player in the tournament, fifth in the girls world rankings.

Saito claimed her fourth, fifth and sixth junior singles titles in 2022, in

Italy,USA and Japan, two of those on ahardsurface, like Traralgon’s.

Thereare threeAussie girls in the main draw; 14-year-old Emerson Jones, sister of Hayden, (ranked 40th), Lily Taylor (ranked 64th) and Lily Fairclough (ranked 103rd).

Emerson Jones amazingly already has two singles titles, both claimed last year in Sydney

Forty-three of the top-100 ranked girls will compete in Traralgon, Jones and Taylor two of those.

Other highly-ranked girls talent includes; Great Britain’sElla McDonald, ranked ninth in the world, and Slovakia’sNikola Daubnerova, ranked 11th in the world, and thereare afurther five girls ranked between 12 and 19 competing among the rest.

Several national number-one ranked players will be competing among the field.

Romania, Austria, Korea, Italy, Estonia, Sweden, New Zealand and Norway all have anumber-one ranked national player representing them in Traralgon, while New Zealand will show offits number-one ranked talents in both the boys and girls competition.

Entry to the venue is free for spectators.

Top-10 Ranked Boys:

1. Iliyan Radulov,Bulgaria (World Ranking: 14)

2. Alexander Blockx, Belgium (15)

3. Cooper Williams, USA (18)

4. Arthur Gea, France (21)

5. Mihia Alexandru Coman, Romania (29)

6. Rei Sakamoto, Japan (33)

7. Hayato Matsuoka, Japan (34)

8. Danil Panarin, Neutral (38)

9. Maxim Mrva, Czech Republic (43)

10. Joao Fonseca, Brazil (44)

Top-10 Ranked Girls:

1. Sara Saito, Japan (World Ranking: 5)

2. Ella McDonald, Great Britain (9)

3. Nikola Daubnerova, Slovakia (11)

4. Sayaka Ishii, Japan (13)

5. Luciana Moyano, Argentina (14)

6. Nina Vargova, Slovakia (15)

7. Luca Udvardy,Hungary (16)

8. Alina Korneeva, Neutral (19)

9. Ena Koike, Japan (20)

10. Ella Seidel, Germany (21)

Focus: Thebest-ranked playerfor the boys heading intothe TraralgonJunior International is IliyanRadulov. photograph corinne dubrueil/itf tennis

Friendly fire: Sara Saito(left) and Sayaka Ishii arethe bestranked Japanese competitors. photograph corinne dubrueil/itf tennis

In their blood: Brother and sister duo from Queensland,Hayden and Emerson Jones,are thebest-ranked Aussies in their respective sections photograph contributed

Future stars all set to go

TENNIS TRARALGON JNR INTERNATIONAL BY LIAM DURKIN

THE flags areupalong Franklin Street, thereare people exiting local hotels with tennis bags in hand, and the lines at various cafes across town areout the door

That can only mean one thingthe Traralgon Junior International is back.

Tennis’ futurestars have descended on little old Traralgon, ready to battle it out for the titles, and to take home afamous Akubra.

Over the next week, spectators will witness players that may well go on to win Grand Slams, and become household names across the globe.

To thoseunaware, the Traralgon Junior International is, in the words of Ron Burgundy,“kind of abig deal”.

Players the calibreofNick Kyrgios, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and even Roger Federer have played at the tournament.

Federer won the boys singles title in 1998.

Who knows, perhaps he even still has his Akubra.

Croatia’sMili Poljicak took out the boys final last year -and won Wimbledon Juniors four months later

They don’tjustlet anybody play in Traralgon either

In the words of former Word No. 6, Gilles Simon: “I didn’t play in Traralgon as ajunior, I wasn’tgood enough”, he told

The Express just last year (the Frenchman was playing as the top seed at an ATPTour Event in Traralgon).

So you see, the Traralgon Junior International is known the world over

Cultures areset to collide in Traralgon, and spectators could see some wholesome content, especially if players from different countries compete in doubles.

Alot of the time, players competing in doubles don’teven speak the same language, but through tennis, have an instant tool for communication.

The language barrier can however make it quite interesting if you’rea journalist.

After Poljicak won the boy’stitle last year,myfirst question to him

was: ‘What do you think served you well?’

Understandably,hethought Imeant his actual serve, and proceeded to talk about that.

Youdoalways feel slightly bad talking to international tennis players, most of whom have English as their second language, when you have only ever bothered to learnone yourself.

Regardless, while not everyone might be speaking the same language in averbal sense at the Traralgon Junior International, aracquet and aball is all that is needed to bring any number of people together

While sport is often just seen as ameans of separating winners from losers, its true power surely comes from its ability to unite.

Team