Gippsland Times Tuesday 25 April 2023

LEST WE FORGET

LONGFORD Primary School has commemorated ANZAC Day by creating their very own Poppy Wall.

Students Zoe Goode and Tywen McLean (pictured) formed part of the team that help create the wall Created in the last few weeks of Term 1, the idea for the Poppy Wall came about as students were learning about textiles in art classes

“The students are very proud of this work and have enjoyed watching the wall grow over the weeks observing the different types of poppies appear,” art teacher Karen McAdam said

“What has been created is a tapestry of poppies of many styles and materials representing the different ways in which people remember this important part of our history, and what it means to them ”

The work is a “community project” put together through the efforts of students, parents, families and staff

“We even had grandparents from Melbourne make poppies and send them to us to show their support,”

Ms McAdam said

The poppy flower is typically associated with Remembrance Day, held annually on November 11, but has come to be adopted at other commemorative services, including those held on Anzac Day

SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL FEATURE

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BATTLE OF THE BIRDS

PAGE 34

ASERIES of pollution reports and health and safety concerns from the public has sparkedanEnvironment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) investigation into allegedly potential breaches at the MED-XHealthcare Solutions waste management facility site in Sale.

The EPA Regional Manager, Renee Palmer, said the EPA was investigating potential breaches at the industrial site in Sale after aseries of pollution reports from the public.

“Callers to EPA late in the afternoon and evening of Wednesday, April 5, reported smoke, odour and litter from thesite, and EPA officers inspected the site the next day,” Ms Palmer said.

“Thesiteduty holder is conducting aproject trialling the use of pyrolysis (heating without oxygen) to investigate whether this is asuitable methodof

treating incontinence and manufacturing waste.

“The project hasbeen operating under an EPA-issued authorisation of discharges or disposal, which allows the temporarytrial to go ahead under strict conditions.”

In responsetoa lackofsustainable solutionsfor incontinenceproductwaste fromAustralia’s residentialaged care sector, the global incontinence product manufacturer Essity launched an Australian-first trial, Project Divert, in earlyFebruaryatthe MED-X Healthcare Solutions facility in Sale.

The Project Diverttrialutilises the CharMaker-patented pyrolysis technology developed by aVictorian environmental consulting firm, Earth Systems, whichheats wastematerialsin the absence of oxygen, producing lower emissions than traditional incineration.

Committee members and coaches from Sale United FootballClub, whichare neighbours of theMED-X Healthcare Solutions facility on Raglan Street, have

expressed health and safety concerns about the byproduct of the CharMaker -smoke,foul odour and litter -with one committee member reporting they spent hours clearing debris littered across the club’s grounds.

GO Soccer Mums coach, Madeleine Forbes, said the foul odour from the medical waste management facility was first noticed in mid-March.

“I was putting out cones and thought someone was illegally burning plastic,” Ms Forbes said.

“It’scommontobebreathing in woodfire smoke while at training, but this was adifferent smell.

“I saw thattherewas smoke billowing from thetop of theincineratorinthe industrialblock next door, and the wind was blowing it directly in our direction.

“We train on Wednesday from 5.30 pm until6.30 pm, so Ithought it crazy -firstly that council would allow something like this to operate next to a sporting facility, and secondly that they were runningitafter business hours -at

atimewhere the oval and surrounding public spaces/footpaths would be at peak usage.Not to mention the childcare centre, right next to the oval, was still open.”

The SUFC treasurer, Cameron Irvine, tried to call MED-X Healthcare Solutions to request that the CharMaker be switched off but receivednoresponse

“There was staff onsite as Isaw astaff member up inspecting the machine as we were doing our drills,” Ms Forbes said.

“We have people with asthma and mothers who bringtheiryoungchildren and babies in prams to our sessions.

“We decided to move to the back oval wherethe smell was not as strong. I was concerned that the poor air qualitywould make players feel unwellor unable to participate and preventmums from participating in future sessions if they can’t ensure their kids and babies will be safe if they bring them along.”

Continued Page 3

ZoeAskew

Chester urges wind farm levy

PhilipHopkins

FEDERAL Memberfor Gippsland, Darren Chester, has called on the government to impose alevy on Gippsland’s offshore wind farm industry to ensure the regional community sharesinthe projects’ economic benefits.

In aletter to the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, Mr Chester urged thegovernmenttoback apolicyfor a revenue stream linked to the income from the offshore windindustry. This would be similar to the ‘Royalties for Regions’ program for the mining sector imposed by the former Western Australia Coalition government.

“Establishing aprecedent whereby the host communities for offshore wind projects can derive adirectfinancialbenefit to be spent on local infrastructure needs would help buildthe social licence for such projects,” he said.

“Such alicence requirement for the duration of would alsotakethe pressure off governments to provide additional community infrastructure to accommodate the forecast increased demand for services.”

The Gippsland Offshore Renewable Energy Zone covers about 15,000 square kilometres from offshoreofLakes Entrance in the east to south of Wilsons Promontory in the west. It includes all three local government areas in Mr Chester’selectorate, either in energy production or its transmission.

Thestate government plans to have offshore wind farms generate four gigawatts (GW) of energy by 2035 and 9 GW by 2040 as part of its net zero target by 2045. It maintains the projects will create an estimated 59,000 jobs. About 80 per cent of these are in construction.

The Albanesegovernment has awarded Major Project Status to Gippsland’s firstoffshorewindfarm project, the Star of the South.

Federal Minister forClimate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen said Gippsland’sdeclaration wasa crucial step towardsaffordable, reliableand secure energyand new economic opportunities for Australia. The government maintainsthat the start of adomestic offshore wind industrycreates tremendous opportunity for local industry and job creation.

Mr Chester said one of the questions raised by local governments was how the region would ensure that successful proponents contribute back to the communities that host the projects.

“While the local community is generally supportive of this fledglingindustry, there is alevel of concern regarding transmission towers crossing private property, the impactoncommercial fishing, andthe extent of measurable local benefitsinterms of employment and economic activity,” he said.

Mr Chester said the approval process would deal with the first two issues.

“But Iamunconvinced that adequate attention is being given to the issue of local and regional benefits,” he said.

If several offshore wind projects go ahead,the community expected that “the industry will contributetothe local communityinasubstantial and measurable manner”.

Mr Chester said the community did not want to rely on assurances in vision and mission statements promoting corporate goodwill.

“The local community would be supportive of aregulatory or legislative measure which would requirethe companies to returnadividend to the host communities,” he said.

The windy Bass Strait off Gippsland, and the stronggridacross Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley, meanthis area has the potential to support more than 10GW of year-round wind energy generation.

Offshorewindfarm investors must submit applications for afeasibility licence by April 27.

The state and federalgovernments say they are committed to working together to considerthe Gippsland coast west of Wilsons Prom, includingfurther consultation with Traditional Owners and taking intoaccount communityfeedback and information on environmental risks of developing offshore electricity infrastructure in the area.

First-in industry projects often pose complexregulatory considerations, and the government awarding Major Project Status to the Star of the South means it can receive tailored regulatory facilitation services -toensure they meet their obligations without unnecessary regulatory delays.

Member forGippsland, Darren Chesterhad written to PrimeMinister Anthony Albanese, to try to ensureregional communities share in any economicbenefits from offshorewindfarm projects Photo: File

While the local community is generally supportive of this fledgling industry,thereisa level of concern regarding transmission towerscrossing private property,the impact on commercial fishing, and the extent of measurable local benefits in terms of employment and economic activity

DARREN CHESTER

Worries over waste

From Page 1

ON Thursday, March 23, Mr Irvine approached theEPA as thick black smoke, litter and atoxic smell were discharging from the Charmaker in the industrial lot next door.

"You could literally see the fumes coming out of the machine, and the smellwas really toxic," Mr Irvine said.

"The wind was just blowing it right across our pitch, littering small amounts of plastic debris.

"Our Under 7s coach was in the clubrooms with me,and Iasked,'On alevel from one to 10, how bad do you think the smell is?'

"He said, 'I work in the seweragedepartment for Gippy Water, and it's a10' "It was really toxic."

The followingweek,byproducts from the CharMaker forced SUFC to cancel all LatrobeValleySoccer League Junior Country Championships squad training sessions as excessivesmoke and odour from the patented pyrolysis technology were aconcern to the health and safety of participants.

SUFC's junior coordinator, Laurel Irvine, made another report to the EPA.

"The smoke was extreme, the pitch was littered with half-melted plastics and sanitary items, afew of these even had blood on them," Ms Irvine said.

"It took me over an hour to remove the debris from our pitch.

"We had visiting players, from other clubs, with squad training on. This was called off.

"I'm all for recycling, but this is ridiculous and needs to be moved awayfromthe homes, the early daycare centre right beside us, Scouts.

"The kids and playershave been lockedaway with COVID restrictions. We are getting good numbers backoutside in the freshair,and this happens."

At theneighbouring sporting clubs training last Tuesday, the potent odourfromthe CharMakerat the MED-X HealthcareSolutionsfacility remained prominent.

SUFC committee members voiced concern about the time that EPA officers arrived at the site, about 2pm,notingthatthe CharMaker is onlyonlate in the afternoons, notduring the day; therefore, the full effectswerenot discernible

"I fullysupport sustainable solutions; what's in question is the locality of the machine,"Mr Irvine said.

"Tocancel the Junior Country squad training, kids from as far as Moe had to turn around and go home without training.

"So it's not just affecting us as aclub; it's affecting us as aclub and people, kids,from

differenttowns who have travelled to Sale to train."

EPA investigations remain ongoing into alleged potentialbreaches at the industrial site in Sale.

"Whilethe reportstoEPA indicated pollution affecting anearbysportsground,the risk to human health is consideredtobelow, and normal hygiene practices such as covering any open wounds and washing hands would apply," Ms Palmer said.

Wellington Shire Council wasrecently made aware of the Project Divert trial and is now working with the EPA to determine whether the trial requires council permitsorother state government authorisation.

"To date, Council has not received any correspondence from the community via its customer action requestprocess, and residents are asked to contact the Environment Protection Authority Victoria on 1300 372 842 if they have feedback about the trial," aspokesperson from Wellington Shire Council said.

Essity reported that after amonth of operations, Earth Systems informed the manufacturer that asmall quantity of thermally treated plastic bag waste had blown onto the neighbouring soccerfield.

"They also reported there was asmoke emission caused by abuild-up inside the machine,"anEssity spokesperson said.

"Community wellbeing is important to us and we take these events seriously.

"Earth Systemsinformedusthatthey investigatedand put in place appropriate controls to address the issues."

The Project Divert trial has now ended after six weeks of operations that processed about seven tonnes of absorbent hygiene waste from aged care facilities throughout Victoria.

"About half of the waste generated by aged care facilities comes fromabsorbent hygieneproducts, so thistrial is playing an importantrole in finding ways to minimise the environmental impact of this waste," an Essity spokesperson said.

"The results will be used by Essity to assess the commercial viability for alarge-scale incontinence waste disposal solution for our customers.

"It's important to rememberthat this trialis designed to understand how this technology can help solve asignificant wastechallenge and any subsequent commercial scale operation would incorporate learningsfrom this trial, including the potential location and facility requirements."

The public can report pollution by calling EPA's 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/ reporting-pollution

Litter strewn across Sale United FootballClub’smain pitch from the CharMaker

Photo:Contributed

Debris from the CharMaker cleared from Sale United Football Club grounds.

Photo: Contributed

Incontinence waste and woodchips turned intobiochar on March82023.

Photo: Stefan Bradley

We

Zoe Askew

IN the early morning darkness of April 25, 1915, about 16,000 Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers descended upon the beach shores of Gallipoli in modern-day Türkiye.

By thatevening, 2000 of them had beenkilled or wounded.

The Gallipoli campaign, commandedbythe British Empire Force, was intended to quickly knock the Ottoman Empire -anallyofGermany -out of the warbycapturing the Gallipoli Peninsula,with theultimateobjective of capturing Constantinople (today nowIstanbul)

Minefields and on-shore artillery batteries thwarted early British naval attempts to force theirway through the narrowstraits knownas the Dardanelles to capture Constantinople and

relievepressure on their Russian allies engaged with Ottoman forcesinthe Caucasus, so it was decided that troops would land on the peninsula to overcome Ottoman defences.

While British and French forces landed at Cape Helles on the southern tip of the Gallipoli peninsula, the ANZAC, which included the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Australian Brigades along with the 1stNew Zealand Brigade and artillery units from the British Indian Army, landed on the west coast in aseries of waves.

Thousands of Australianand New Zealand soldiers sat in silence, in darkness, as boats edged closer to the Gallipoli Peninsula on April 25, 1915.

For the vast majority of the 16,000 Australians and New Zealanders who landed that day, it was their first experience of combat.

As the ANZAC troops reached the shore, in what

2 Stead Street, Sale

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is now known as ANZAC Cove, they were about amilenorth of the loosely planned landing site in steep, rugged terrain, meeting fierce resistance from the Ottoman forces.

Thousands of Australian and New Zealand fathers, brothers, and sons became separated from their units as they began moving up the tangle of complex spurs and ravines in the darkness, burning hot metal bullets cracking in the quiet dawn air.

Devastatingartillery bombardments from the Ottoman forces proved too strong, and the Anzac position became progressively more precarious afterfailing to secure their high-ground objectives beforehand.

On the evening of April 25, 1915, Major-General William Bridges, commander of the 1st Australian Division,and Lieutenant-General Sir William Birdwood, commander of ANZAC, advisedGeneral Sir Ian Hamilton, Commander-in-Chief of the Mediterranean Expeditionary Force, that the ANZACs be withdrawn from the peninsula but after consultation with the Royal Navy.

Hamilton decided against an evacuation and ordered the troops to dig in.

The once-white-sanded shores of ANZAC Cove were now stained blood red.

Boys as young as 14 lay dead, never to return home

For the next eight months,the ANZACs remained in the same position they had taken on April 25, 1915.

The ANZACs were evacuated in late December 1915, and on January 9, 1916,whenBritish forces completed the evacuation of Cape Helles, the Gallipoli campaign ended.

The Gallipoli campaign was amilitary failure.

An estimated 8141 Australian soldiersdied during the eight-month-long campaign, creating a profoundimpact on arecently federated Australia.

Twenty-two-year-old Arthur Abernethy from Maffra,serving in the 14th Infantry Battalion, and James Kiernan, from Sale, serving in the 5th Infantry Battalion, were amongthe more than 8000 Australians killed in action during the Gallipoli campaign.

While the Gallipolicampaign failed to achieve its militaryobjectives, the actions of Australian

and New Zealand forces left apowerful legacy to be remembered; the traitsshowninGallipoli –bravery, ingenuity, endurance and mateship –have become enshrined as defining aspects of the Australian character.

April 25 marks the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War, widely regarded as the foundation legend of Australian military history and apotent symbol of federated Australia.

Australian and New Zealand soldiers whoformed part of the allied expedition to capture the Gallipoli Peninsula became known as Anzacs, and the pride they took in that name continues to be celebrated to this day.

In 1916 the first Anzac Day commemorations were held on April 25, and weremarkedbyvarious ceremonies, services and marches acrossAustralia; in the Sydney march, convoys of cars carried the soldiers that were wounded at Gallipoli and their nurses.

More than 2000 Australian and New Zealand troopsmarched through the streets of London on April 25, 1916; aLondon newspaper headline dubbing the ANZACs “the knights of Gallipoli”.

Anzac Day became anational commemoration for the more than60,000 Australians who died during World War I, with every state observing some form of public holiday for the first time on Anzac Day in 1927.

All of the rituals we now associate with Anzac Day -dawn vigils, marches, memorial services, reunions, and two-up games -were firmly established by the mid-1930s.

Anzac Day later served to commemorate the lives of Australians who diedinthe Second World War; the meaning of the day was further broadened in subsequent years to include those who lost their lives in allAustralian-involved militaryand peacekeeping operations.

Note: The Stratford RSL ANZAC Day Ceremony will begin today at 9am.

Sale Cenotaph’s 99-year history

TomParry

SURROUNDEDbythe wallsofthe MemorialHall on Macalister Street is aconspicuousstructure known as the Sale Cenotaph.

For close to acentury, this stone monument has served as afocal point for locals to honour all those who paid The Ultimate Sacrifice -onitbears the names of service personnel who died during the First and Second World Wars.

It playsanimportant role duringRemembrance Day(November 11) and Anzac Day (today), when dozens of dignitaries and residents will surround it to pause for aminute’s silence, or lay awreath at its base.

Its importance will be obvious to all; less so its symbolism and its history.

The cenotaph hasn’t always called the Sale Memorial Hall -which was constructed in the late 1950s -home; in fact, it was first located at theintersection of Raymond and Foster Streets. Its position was met with some resistance from locals, as noted by the GippslandVeterans Centre’s resident historian, Ross Jackson.

Prior to the cenotaph’s construction, the Soldiers MemorialWomen’s Fund -established withthe purpose of raising money for aveterans’ monument -had wanted astructure placed in aprominent public location, and believed the Raymond/Foster St intersection would be ideal.

But one memberofthe groupobjected to the idea, citing safety concerns.

“Some person had the effrontery (to say) that the cenotaph shouldn’t be put where it was originally placed becauseacar could run into it,” Mr Jackson said.

“The person (who) wrotethat was rather forwardthinking, because they knew that the automobile was here to stay.”

At the time though, their argument was rejected, with the cenotaph being built on the intersection and unveiled to the public in June of 1924, albeit without names as had originally been planned.

This, according to Mr Jackson, was due to debate around who should be memorialised.

“There was talk of inscribing everyone who went to war, and then there was talk of, ‘Hang on, if we inscribe everyone who went to war, it’s going

to cost us ex-amount of quid, and we don’t have that’,” he explained.

Eventually,itwas agreedupon that only the names of fallen soldiers would be inscribed on the structure.

Atrawl through the archives of the Gippsland Times revealed that the cenotaph was “erected at acost of over £900” -the equivalent of $83,000 in today’s money.

“The coping stone on the pillar supports additional tiers of fine granite, which is surmounted by thefigure of awoman carved out of the best Italian marble,” the Times reported in 1924.

“In her right hand is the bronze figure of an angel holding out alaurelwreathsymbolic of Victory, and in her left upraised hand she holds apalm leaf typifying Peace.”

(What the Times neglected to mention was that the granite was sourced from Harcourt in central Victoria,and the “angel”referred to is actually

How the ‘Victory Woman’ came to be

RossJackson

THEword Cenotaphcomes from the two Greek words kenos taphos;translatedinto English, they have the literal meaning of empty tomb.

As 1920closed,the rear guard of surviving combatants to the Great War trickled home to hearth and kin.Aprice had been paid; in many cases, even for those still breathing and upright, the price was heavy.

An urgent need to do something to acknowledge this debt lingered in the soul of anation deep in mourning. An acknowledgement to those who went, from those who did not, was foremost in every rational thinking citizen of the towns and cities of the free world. Sale was no exception.

The Honour Board was the most popular form of recognition; shires, boroughs, churches, schools, clubs, sporting groups and many more unveiled their tribute in aprominent part of their establishments.

ASaleand district Borough Honour Board, made of hardwood, was put forward at acouncilmeeting and the job of collecting the names was placed in the hands of the Town Clerk, Mr Andrew GHolt. The honourboard idea was rejected by the

councillors of Salebecauseitwas successfully argued that the board would be at the council chambers,and wouldbeseen by alimitedamount of people.

1922 saw the inauguration of the Solders Memorial Women’s Fund, initiatedbyMayor Cullinan and taken up by the Mayoress Ms Sarah Cullinan, the Mayor’s sister. 17 women attended withfour apologies; the women votedinacommittee and began their fundraising within days.

Thewomenmet each month and devised strategiestoseek donations.Donors were encouraged to join the meetings and the response became favourable; the meetings became known as Subscribers Meetings.

On September17, 1923 at one of the Subscribers Meetings, 28 designs of war memorials were presented. Aselection committee wasquickly formed, comprising of both men and women. This committee dwindledthe number of stylesdownto six: fourobelisk styles, abronze figure of asoldier “resting on his rifle”, and one marble statue of a woman symbolising victory. Theselectionwas voted on and the statue of “the victory woman” was the successful choice.

The location of thememorial becameanissue, with many disagreeing on the planned site - the

intersection of Foster and Raymond Streets in Sale.One Subscriber pointed out the obvious: the memorial was in danger of being run in to by motor vehicles.

Victoria Park (next to Sale Primary School) was an alternative, but dismissed by the fact that it was tucked away off the main roads. Eventually this issuewas resolved by avote from the Subscribers, and the intersection of Foster and RaymondSts with asouthern aspect prevailed, despite the danger to motor cars.

The monument was unveiled on June 16, 1924 without the names of the fallen inscribed.

Soon after, adonation from Messrs Charles and James Napper allowed the inscription of nameson the cenotaph, done by the volunteer service of Mr J. Triggs, the Monumental Mason in Sale.

Ross Jacksonisthe resident historian at the Gippsland Veterans Centre in Sale. This story is comprised of extracts from his non-fiction book Empty Tomb: The story of the Sale and district Cenotaph1924-1949.The bookis available to read at Wellington Libraries.

Nike, the Greek Goddess of Victory.)

By the 1960s, an increase in motor traffic saw it necessary to relocate the cenotaph to its present site on Macalister Street.

Acrane was loaned fromthe AirForce to help with the move, which saw the 1.5-tonne structure dismantled in segments and reassembled on April 6, 1963.

The event helpedlay resttoa locallegend claimingthat amessage was contained within the cenotaph, withthe Times confidently reporting that “NO HIDDEN MESSAGE” was found.

The Sale Cenotaphhas truly stood the test of time -the only alterations made have been the additional inscriptions of those killed during WW2, and the marble lady’s left arm, which broke off and was replaced in the late 1980s.

Next year marks its 100th anniversary, and plans are already underway for astirring celebration.

Floral tributes laid at the base of theSale Cenotaph following last year’s AnzacDay ceremony

Photo: File

Photo: Sale HistoricalSociety

Veteran and historian Ross Jackson with two Gippsland Times articles aboutthe Sale Cenotaph’s movetothe Memorial Hall.

Photo: TomParry

A positive learning community where Apositive all individuals areaccepted, inspired are accepted, and empowered to succeed.

Busy month for Wellington Shire

Zoe Askew

SUMMER has come and gone, and while there may be fewer days with temperatures reaching above 20 degrees, there is certainly no shortage of events and activities taking place in and around the Wellington Shire this month

Mother's Day Champagne Brunch at Mewburn Park Homestead

TREAT Mum this Mother's Day with Champagne Brunch at Mewburn Park Homestead

Enjoy a high-tea inspired tapas brunch, catered by Mr D from Bairnsdale, in the marquee, overlooking the gardens and old buildings at Mewburn Park, while sipping a complimentary glass of bubbles, or order a cocktail from the extensively equipped bar Mother's Day Champagne Brunch at Mewburn Park Homestead also includes a small surprise gift for each mum, so make sure to let event organisers know how many mums are sitting at your table when booking

Tickets are available at shorturl at/GLSWX

When: 11am until 3pm, Sunday, May 14

Where: Mewburn Park Homestead, 5667 Traralgon-Maffra Rd, Maffra

Heyfield Vintage Machinery Rally

THIS month, the 40th annual Heyfield Vintage Machinery Rally is happening The fully catered event features tractors, stationary engines, trucks, steam engines, market stalls, tractor pull, motorbikes, vintage cars, working horses, farm displays, blacksmith demonstrations and more

The entry fee for the Heyfield Vintage Machinery Rally is $10 for adults, $5 for children aged 16-18, and free for children under 16

When: Saturday, May 20 to Sunday, May 21, 9am until 5pm

Where: Gordon Street Recreation Reserve, Gordon Street, Heyfield

Life Model Drawing

FOLLOWING popular demand, Life Model Drawing returns to Yarram

Artist Lautaro Musse from The Gumboot Collective will host the second Life Model Drawing event at The Hive Community Collective for the Yarram and surrounding artist community following the overwhelming success of last year's inaugural event Life Model Drawing will take place at The Hive with limited spaces available and tickets priced at $30 No equipment is required

Tickets are available at shorturl at/cekmH

When: 6pm until 7pm, Friday, May 5

Where: The Hive Community Collective, 50 Bland Street, Yarram

Triangle of Sadness - Films at the Bundy

IN Ruben Östlund's satirical black comedy Palme d'Or winner Triangle of Sadness, social hierarchy is turned upside down, revealing the tawdry relationship between power and beauty

Celebrity couple, Carl, a model played by Harris Dickinson, and his girlfriend Yaya, a model and influencer played by Charlbi Dean, are invited on a luxury cruise aboard a superyacht helmed by

an unhinged boat captain (Woody Harrelson) in exchange for its social media promotion

What first appeared Instagrammable ends catastrophically, washing survivors on a desert island stranded and fighting for survival

BYO drinks and movie snacks are available for $2 each

Tickets are available at shorturl at/AJVY0

When: 7pm, Wednesday, May 24

Where: Bundy Hall, Maffra-Sale Rd, Bundalaguah

National Motoring Heritage Day

GIPPSLAND Vehicle Collection Inc is celebrating National Motoring Heritage Day, an Australian

Historic Motoring Federation initiative, with a one-off display on Sunday, May 21 Gold coin admittance to the grounds, with revenues going to charity, discounted Museum entry, and catering by the Lions Club on the day

Gippsland Vehicle Collection Inc describes the exhibition as a promotion and display of Australia's strong motoring heritage, showing the community, business and government the strength of the Australian historic motoring movement

National Motoring Heritage Day is a day for historic vehicle owners to share their passion with the public and other vehicle enthusiasts

When: 9am until 3pm, Sunday, May 21

Where: Gippsland Vehicle Collection Inc , 1A Maffra-Sale Road, Maffra

Poetry Open Mic Night

MONTHLY poetry nights are back at the Bond Street Event Centre and promise to be better than ever

These monthly poetry nights are popular with poets old and new, from first-time performers to seasoned writers, and provide an opportunity for budding poets to test their poetry on a friendly and supportive audience, as well as people new to poetry with valuable performance experience and the chance to meet other like-minded people

Anyone interested in poetry is invited to attend and be a part of the supportive audience or to bring their works and perform on stage

A $5 entry fee covers a light supper and supports the running of these monthly events

For more information, call David at Bond Street Event Centre at 5182 877

When: 7pm until 10pm, Wednesday, May 17

Where: Bond Street Event Centre, 10 Bond Street, Sale

Police Careers Info Session - Sale

HAVE you been thinking about a career in policing?

The annual Heyfield Vintage Machinery Rally is on again in May

Photo: File

Are you interested in a career with Victoria Police?

Photo: Victoria Police

Do you have questions about the current recruitment process?

Do you want to understand what it takes to get into a specialist unit within Victoria Police?

Victoria Police are hosting an information session about the recruitment process and training at the academy in Sale

The information session is also an opportunity to ask questions about a career in policing and the pathways available to you after graduating from The Police Academy

The Police Careers Info Session is free, but registration is essential which you can do at shorturl at/dfnI4

When: 6 30pm until 8 30pm, Wednesday, May 24

Where: 1227 Maffra-Sale Road, Sale

Small Stage Sessions

SMALL Stage Sessions is Bond Street Event Centre's new Open Mic Night for musicians, poets and short filmmakers

These open mic nights offer up-and-coming performers the opportunity to test their skills on a receptive crowd of like-minded creatives

To offer each performer adequate stage time, the format for musical acts will be solos, duos or trios only, performing 15-minute sets (drum kits not permitted) BSEC will provide PA equipment and a sound technician

Filmmakers who would like to showcase their creations will be given a 10-minute screening and are asked to bring a copy of their film to the venue by 6 20pm on the night

Poets will also be given a 10-minute set to perform their written works

To secure a spot in the open mic night, a blackboard will be placed at the front of the stage, and performers will be allocated a set time on a first-in-first-on basis

If you are interested in local musicians, poets, and filmmakers, head to BSEC's Small Stage Session and be a part of an encouraging and supportive audience

Small Stage Sessions at BSEC are for those aged 16 and up, and minors must be accompanied by a guardian

There is a $10 entry fee, which includes a light supper and goes towards the continued running of these events The bar will also be open

If you have any questions about Bond Street Event Centre's open mic nights, please call David on 5182 8770

When: 7pm until 10pm, Friday, May 5

Where: Bond Street Event Centre, 10 Bond Street, Sale

Jazz High Tea - Mother's Day 2023

JAZZ High Tea at Heyfield Memorial Hall is back for Mother's Day 2023!

Elegant, relaxing and fun Jazz High Tea is an excellent excuse to indulge in a glass of sparkling wine, freshly brewed tea, and a selection of delicious savoury and sweet treats featuring the 'sweet swingin'/jazz sounds from The Tamara Kuldin Quartet

Tickets are available at shorturl at/bciU8

When: 2pm until 4pm, Sunday, May 14

Where: Heyfield Memorial Hall, 34 Macfarlane Street, Heyfield

Scams Awareness - Free Information Session

STAY safe online and learn how to protect yourself from scams

Join nbn Local and Jobs Victoria Advocates

Gippsland at their free Scams Awareness

Information Session at Marley Street Community Hub from 11am until 12pm on Thursday, May 18

Learn more about:

The types of scams trending across Australia; Tips for safe browsing;

Protecting your personal information, and; Reporting a scam

Take advantage of this opportunity to have your

questions answered and to improve your online safety Register your spot at forms office com/r/ zZahmXuy8P

When: 11am until 12pm, Thursday, May 18

Where: Marley Street Community Hub, 2/81-83 Marley Street, Sale

Gippsland Classical Dressage Two-Day Clinic

COTTONWOOD Grove Stables is hosting a two-day classical dressage clinic, suited to all levels, from young horses to advanced, for all lovers of the classical way of teaching or for those who would like to discover it

Rylana will assess each horse and rider in a nonjudgemental way, providing helpful information on how to best work with your horse's body, how to motivate him and how to work on improving your posture and timing, achieving harmony in your training

In-hand/lungeing and bodywork work, as developed by Manolo Mendez are a speciality, as are rider posture and the classical aids Ridden or in-hand spots are being offered $380 for both days

To book or for more information, go to facebook com/quintessentialdressage or facebook com/ cottonwoodgrovestables/

When: Saturday, May 20 to Sunday, May 21

Where: 50 Frouds Road, Giffard West

Come & Try Mountain

Biking Afternoon Session

THE Scout Cycling Team Come & Try Mountain Biking Afternoon Session is a three-hour beginner mountain bike focused on getting a taste of mountain biking

Participants need to be comfortable with general bike riding

Open to Scouts, Venturers, Rovers and Leaders

Older Cubs may also be eligible but should contact the team first

Group bookings are available for Come & Try MTB events

Each session can have up to 14 participants, $12 per person

To make a group booking, email cycling@ scoutsvictoria com au

When: 1pm, Saturday May 6

Where: Blores Hill Mountain Bike Park, Tinamba-Glenmaggie Road, Glenmaggie

Headline Acts at Jacks

 Friday, May 5 - Matt Howlett

 Saturday, May 6 - DJ Night

 Friday, May 12 - Matt-Peter Fry

 Saturday, May 13 - ShibyRight

 Friday, May 19 - Ethan Calway

 Saturday May 20 - RollerToaster

 Friday, May 26 - Leeroy

 Saturday, May 27 - Low Profile

 When: Every Friday and Saturday from 9pm

 Where: Jack Ryan's Irish Bar, Sale

At The Gippsland Hotel

 Friday, May 5 from 8pm - So-Co

 Sunday, May 7 from 2pm - The Scapegoats

 Friday, May 12 from 8pm SweetLIP

 Friday, May 18 from 8pm - Small Town Alien

 Friday, May 26 from 8pm - Soultanas

 Sunday, May 28 from 2pm - Limitations

When: As per above

Where: The Gippsland Hotel, Sale

Watch it at The Wedge

 Cirque Mother Africa

CIRQUE Mother Africa has been seen by more than 2 million people worldwide and is sure to captivate audiences young and old featuring

contortion, acrobatics, traditional dance, live music, pan spinning, hand balancing, and much more Show times: 4:30pm, Thursday, May 4 and 7:30pm, Thursday, May 4

 Superstar The Carpenters’ Songbook

AUSTRALIAN vocalist Laura Davidson and her band recreate The Carpenters’ arrangements and harmonies on classics such as Close To You, Top Of The World, We’ve Only Just Begun, Superstar, For All We Know, Yesterday Once More and many, many more Show times: 7:30pm, Saturday, May 6

 Are We There Yet?

ALISON Lester AM’s classic book Are We There Yet comes to life on stage for children aged 3-10 and their adults

Show times: 6:30pm, Monday, May 8, 10am, Tuesday, May 9, and 1pm, Tuesday, May 9

 The Great Gershwins

STARRING concert pianist virtuoso William Schmidt and international soprano Alison Jones, The Great Gershwins production will highlight many of the great hits and story behind one of the world’s most successful composing brothers, George and Ira Gershwin

Show times: 2:00pm, Sunday, May 14

 Death of a Salesman

REDISCOVER one of the greatest plays of the 20th Century as Hearth Theatre presents an intimate new production of Arthur Miller’s heartbreaking masterpiece Death of a Salesman

Show times: 10am, Thursday, May 18 and 7 30pm, Thursday, May 18

 Black Sun / Blood Moon

FROM writer/director Chris Bendall comes a fantastical new story about finding your voice and saving the world

Show times: 12pm, Tuesday, May 23 and 6 30pm May, 23

 Enchanted Forest

STEP into an enchanted forest with Inventi Ensemble! Featuring a new arrangement of Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony and Debussy’s Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun along with a world premiere performance of a new Australian work by Melody Eötvös

Show times: 8pm, Saturday, May 27

 The Commitments Revue

THE music, laughter and drama of the cult 1991 movie The Commitments comes to life as Jeff Duff and the nine piece Soul Masters recreate the music of the film's soundtrack and more, in a 2-hour production Show times: 8pm, Sunday, May 28

Photo: Tom Parry

LOCAL PRODUCTIONS ON SHOW CAL SHOW 

Community Players –Twelfth Night

If music be the food of love, play on. OUR CommunityPlayers bringyou one of Shakespeare's most loved comedies; ataleof ship-wrecked twins lost on the shores of Illyria, full of mistakenidentities, messy love triangles and unrequited love. Come see the ensemble cast of local performers have fun with puns, pratfalls and pranks aplenty.

Groundwork Youththeatre–ShakespeareinPearil?

AShakespearean tragedy in three parts. We find our characters dying of some unusual causes with somepeculiar twists. Embracingthis year’stheme of poisonous pairs, Groundwork has taken three classic tragedies and given them afruitytwist. Intrigued? Want to know more? You’ll just have to come along and see for yourself.

StratfordSchools Grade 6

Combined Children's Play–Romeo and Juliet

Ataleofforbidden love between the son and daughter of two powerful, warring families. Romeo and Juliet are two star crossed lovers who risk their lives to be together. How will it end? Join the talented combined Stratford schools cast for this stunning, heart-warming performance.

Courthouse Kids and Young Gippsland Theatre

COMEalong either Monday to supportour two kids'theatre companies. Performances by Stratford's Courthouse Kids and Maffra’s Young Gippsland Theatre are always adelightand embrace the essence of what theatre is about, fun, friendship, confidence and teamwork.

Community Play“Twelfth Night”:

LisaHayman Photography

SPECIALEVENTSAND TOURING SHOWS

The Bard’s BanquetLust &Lovers

CALLING all Bohemians and Creatures of the underworld -dance,feast, find truth, beauty and maybe alittle romance.

ComeWhat May,this Moulin Rouge-inspired event promises to be Spectacular Spectacular! featuring an exclusiveshortperformance of the comedy Love’s Labor’s Lost by The Australian Shakespeare Company Graduate Players. As always, we encourage you to come dressed to the theme -Because you Can-Can.

Avon Village Faire&Market

IN 2023, there willbeagrand variety of traditional artsand crafts, food andbeverages, fresh produce, together with exhibitions and displays.

Features of the day include:

 Children’s games on the “Village Green”

 Local stalls and demonstrations

 Street performers, exhibitions, and buskers

 Instrumental and vocal ensembles

 Sailors Grave brewery, bar and music stageopen until 4pm at the Art Colt, 20 Dixon Street

Dramawerkz YouthHold Fast

Abunchofsailors wind up shipwreckedonan island, and for some odd reason, any attempt at escape is suddenly thwarted. Combining fools and fairies from Shakespeare’s mostfamous plays,this originalwork by Dramawerkz Youth Theatresees this smallbunch of sailors meet awhole cast of strange characters while they’re stuck on the island.

The East Gippsland GeezersNo Holds Bard

Amash-up of Shakespeare’s cheekiest momentswoven into arelatively seamless ‘love‘ plot. The characters Globe, Rose and Swan become engaged in asalvo of Shakespearean tiffs, taunts and tête-à-têtes.

The script is unique, in that it utilises at least one line from every one of Shakespeare’s plays in ashape and structure that stands alone as apiece of entertainment.

In short, it is The Bard at his most accessible!

Festival organisers Helen Waddington and Lisa Hayman enjoyinglastyear’s banquetfestivities. Photos: Contributed

AnitaHensen enjoys the Medieval Faireata previous Festival

Support for quality PHN care

Reconstruction fund set to realisepotential

COMMENT

Raff Ciccone

ON March 28, the Senate passed the National ReconstructionFund,akey electioncommitment of the Albanese Labor government.

But the Nationals voted with the Liberals against the bill. With each passing week it becomes clearer that the Coalition opposes policies not because they think they are bad ideas, but because Labor came up with them.

GIPPSLAND general practiceswillbeoffered one-offgrants between $25,000 and $50,000 to expand patient access and improve general practice services.

The federal government has committed $220 million in funding to general practices and ACCOs to makeimprovements to supportquality primary care as part of its Strengthening Medicare commitment.

Gippsland Primary Health Network acting chief executive, AngelaJacob, said general practice was the cornerstone of the primary healthcare system as well as the most accessed care for consumers.

“General practitioners are often the first point of contact for patients in the health system, providing primary and preventative care, advice, education and referrals,” Mrs Jacob said.

“Our GPs continually show how responsive and adaptive they are, whichwas especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We knowthe demand for GP serviceskeeps growing, especiallyasour population ages, and we are pleased to be working in partnership with the government to offer these grants for practices to expand patient access and provide better, safe, quality care.”

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, announced details of the grants on April 20.

“After working tirelessly throughout the pandemic, doctors deserve more than thanks, that’s why we’re giving them the resources to invest in their practices,” he said.

“The $220 million investment will give amuchneeded boost to generalpractices across the country.

“We understand the crucial importance of primary health care provided by GPs. This funding will help improve practices and make sureAustralians can access safe, quality and affordablehealthcare when and where they need it.”

Fundingfor eligible general practices is based on practice size, and can be used to make an investment in innovation, training,equipment, and minor capital works.

This includes initiatives to:

 Enhance digital health capability -tofasttrack the benefits of amore connected healthcare system in readiness to meet future standards;

 Upgrade infection prevention and control arrangements -toensure infectious respiratory disease (e.g. COVID, influenza) patients can be safely seen face-to-face, and/or;

 Maintain and/or achieve accreditation against the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Standards for General Practice, under the General Practice Accreditation Scheme, to promote quality and safety in general practice.

The programisbeingadministered by Gippsland PHN,with applications now openand applications packs sent to all Gippsland general practices inviting them to participate.

Applications close on June 15.

Practices can reach Gippsland PHN for further information by emailing primarycareresponse@ gphn.org.au

This $15 billion fund is all about revitalising Australian industry so we can be acountry that makes things again. It represents one of Australia’s biggest investments in manufacturing in living memory.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we all saw how our over-reliance on international supply chains left us exposedtodisruptions outside of our control.

But the Australian workers and businesses who stepped up to provide us with the goods and services we all rely on show that there is great potential to improve our domestic capability.

The National Reconstruction Fund is all about realising this potential.

The fund will direct significant investment into regional Australia, creating jobs in agriculture, forestry, resources and other important industries.

As the government has previouslyannounced, $500 millionoftargetedinvestment will be directed towards value-adding in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, food and fibre.

Iwas disappointed thatmyLiberal and Nationals colleagues voted againstestablishing the fund.

It is exactly the sort of policy that regional politicians should support:The government stepping in to ensure Australians in rural and remote areas benefit from the nation-building activities and industrydevelopment that too often favours big cities.

There are seven priority investment areas for the National Reconstruction Fund, ensuring that we are improving our sovereign capability in essential supply chains.

Theareas have been selectedtostrategically drive economicdevelopmentinour regions and outer suburbs, diversify the nation’s economy and create secure jobs.

One of theseareas is defence capability. By maximising sourcing requirements from Australian suppliersemployingAustralian workers, we can ensure our own country plays more of arole in our defence supply chain.

The National Reconstruction Fund recognises that the forestry industry will be key to our low emissionsfuture. By providing investment for value-add in forestry, we can ensure that demand for timber products -which we know must necessarily rise if we are going to meet our climate goals - can be met with Australian goods.

Value-adding activities in agriculturewillalso be eligible for investment through the National ReconstructionFund,ensuring thatAustralian workers and businesses play asignificant role in more steps in the agriculture supply chain. Iamproud that Federal Labor is delivering on its election commitments and delivering for regional Australia.

Senator Raff Cicconeisa Federal Labor

Senatorfor Victoria, Deputy Government Whip in the Senate and Chair of the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defenceand Trade Legislation Committee

Photo: File image

Spendat$1bil

BUSINESSES in regionalAustralia saw acracking Easter longweekend, with $1.3 billion spent at small and medium sized businesses across the country, new NAB data shows.

Australia’s largest business bank revealed spending was up two per cent on Easter 2022 and more than 150 per cent on pre-pandemic levels.

By state,South Australiasaw the largest growth in regional spend, up 194 per cent on pre-pandemic levels, followed by Western Australia (up 191 per cent),Queensland(up 159 per cent), NSW (up 105 per cent) and Victoria (up 95 per cent).

NAB Executive for Small Business,Ana Marinkovic, said the four-day weekend was awelcomed boost for the regions, with every dollar spent contributing towards firing up local economies.

“From HerveyBay to the Margaret River, it’s great to see our regions remain apopular destination with the return of international travellers

Program is in place at EnergyAustralia

and more Aussies choosing to holiday in their own backyard,” Ms Marinkovic said.

Car rentals saw the largest jump in spend compared to pre-pandemic levels, jumping 91 per cent,followed by restaurants (up 66 per cent), bars and pubs (up 58 per cent) and accommodation (up 46 per cent).

“People are being more thoughtful about where and how they spend their hard-earned cash, and for some that means choosing adomestic holiday over an overseas trip-great for home grown businesses as the pandemic has shown we love to buy local where we can,” Ms Marinkovic said.

“We recently asked Australians how their travel plans have changed, 28 per centofrespondents told us they were looking to travel within Australia, withanother 21 per centsaying they plan to travel within their own state or territory.”

Council child safety policy

Stefan Bradley

WELLINGTON Shire Council adoptedanupdated child safetypolicy at lastTuesday’sordinary meeting on April 18.

The council already had achild safe policy internally for staff,but decided the stategovernment’s new child safe standards was as an opportunity to replace it with apublicly available policy.

Councilsaysthe updated policy provides a “framework for the community to understand how Council is embeddingthe updatedlegislationinto its practicesfromanorganisational perspective and assures the community of our commitment to child safety”.

The draft policywas up for community consultation between March 22 and April 5, 2023. The onlineconsultation page was visited by 72 people, with 12 downloading the proposed policy. Council says “no feedback of consequence” was received.

Under the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act (2005), the council must have policies and procedures in place that promotesafeenvironments for children and young people and to ensure they’re prepared to respond to abuse and misconduct allegations.

Council’s policy has incorporated the state government’s new child safe standards,which took effectfromJuly 12022toalignwith the national standards.

The state government’s 11 standards replaced thecurrent seven and have astronger focus on thesafetyofAboriginal children; the risk of child abuseonthe internet; and involve families and communities with organisational efforts to keep children safe.

Organisation or groups that provide services or facilities for children or engages achild as a contractor, employeeorvolunteer have alegal obligation to comply with the childsafestandards

Lifeline is available 24 hoursaday -phone 13 11 14

ENERGYAUSTRALIA has continued its program of transition support for workers at the Yallourn power station and mine, hosting an information session on employmentopportunities in the offshore wind industry.

The session featured speakers from the offshore wind project Star of the South, Federation University Training, and offshore energy recruitment specialists Atlas Professionals.

Lisa Gooding, EnergyAustralia’s Yallourn transition leader, said the company was determined to ensure asmoothtransition for its people ahead of Yallourn’s planned closure in mid-2028.

“The Yallourn mineand its power stations have provided faithful service to the people of Victoria for over 100 years. And it’s only fair that Yallourn’s people aren’t left behind as the energy industry transitions,” she said.

“We’reconfident Yallourn workers have abright future ahead, with the workshop highlighting how the skills they have developed at Yallourn will be in demand for the energy projects of the future.”

Transition continues for power stattion workers.

Photo: File

PROUDLYBROUGHT TO YOUBYTHESE PARTICIPATINGLOCAL BUSINESSES

Crossword Puzzle No.8531

with Muzza

ONE POINTERS

1. In little redriding hood, who does the wolf dress up as?

2. An insomniac struggles to do what?

3. What year werethe Sydney Olympics held?

4. What country werethe Lordofthe Ringsfilms made in?

TWO POINTERS

5. Which local league do Rosedale Football/Netball Club play in?

6. If Iwas in the town of Nimbin what state would Ibein?

7. What was the nickname of the Australian criminal who cut off both his ears while in jail?

8. In the phonetic alphabet, what wordisused for the letter ‘L’?

THREE POINTERS

9. What was Princess Diana’ssurname beforeshe gotmarried?

10. Which driver won the Australian Formula 1Grand Prix in Melbourne this year?

11. Who created the comic characters of Ali G, Borat, and Bruno?

12. PB is the chemical symbol for what metal?

FOUR POINTERS

13. In the poem by Edgar Allen Poe, what did the raven say?

14. Legal agreements areoften divided into smaller parts called what?

FIVE POINTER

15. I’ll give you the name of five famous books and you give me the author?

1. The Catcher in the Rye 2. Pride and Prejudice

3. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’sStone 4. Moby Dick

5. Great Expectations

HOW DID YOU FARE?

37: Topofthe class; 30-36: Outstanding; 23-29: Well done;

15-22: Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement;

0-8: Hit the books.

Target Time No.0155

Howtoplay.

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or morecan you list? The centrelettermustbe included and each letter may be used only once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or

Sudoku No.0155

Howtoplay... Fill

The owners of local businesses are behind the counter

MarioBros. prove popular

MARIO’S debut feature is making big money at thebox office -both internationally and at home.

Released worldwide earlier this month, The Super Mario Bros. Movie is already the top-grossing filmof2023, havingamassed overUS$870million according to Box Office Mojo.

With the picture yet to open in two of its biggest markets -SouthKorea, and Japan-itisexpected to surpass the $1 billion thresholdinthe coming days.

In Australia, Mario is the second-highestgrossing of the year with over AU$36 million in box-office returns as of April 20, behind Avatar: The Way of Water with $44.65 million.

Thefilmisproving popular in Gippsland too -at Sale Cinema, ticket sales for Mario outnumbered all other releases over the school holidays.

“We knew it was going to be very popular; perhaps notquite as popular as it is,” Sale Cinema proprietor Val Hodges said.

“It’s justbeen astoundingthe amount(of people) that have come in to watch that movie.”

Ms Hodges put the success of the picture down to nostalgia, notingthe popularity of the Super Mario Bros. video games: “I think almost everyone’s had ago…”

Shealsonoted that some attendees had seen multiple screenings, with “several hundred” having returned to see the film.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie has received a mixedresponse from reviewers,currentlyholding a59per cent approval rating on reviewaggregator Rotten Tomatoes, and ascore of 46 per cent on Metacritic.

But, it did receive aglowing review from Gippsland Times film critics Stefan Bradley and Tom Parry, who praised the visuals, humour and references to the original games.

Audiences have also responded well to the picture,witha96per cent user scoreonRotten Tomatoes and an "A" grading from American market research firm CinemaScore.

Iranian comedy moved forward

FILMS at the Bundy have brought forward their June screening of Iranian comedydrama Hit the Road,which will now be shown at the Bundy Hall tomorrow (April 26) at 7.30pm.

Hit the Road follows achaotic, tender family on aroad trip across Iran, the clandestinepurposeofwhich becomes clear as the film progresses.

Thebabbling observations of the six-year-old son (played by Rayan Sarlak) and the family interactions are described by critics as "enchanting, affecting and humorous".

The picture is writer and director Panah Panahi’s feature debut and, according to critics, his "deceptively-light touch hits that sweet spot between laughter and tears".

Films at the Bundy is alocal film society that hosts screenings on the fourth Wednesday of the month; memberships can be purchasedvia trybooking.com/CFAHJ

Come-and-try tickets for a single film are also available at the door.

For more information about Films at the Bundy, follow the group's official Facebook page: facebook.com/ filmsatthebundy

Sale author Trevor Tucker’s newest book out now

SALE author Trevor Tucker, who in the past has written Gippsland-based stories,has released his fourth novel, ASense of Justice,available now.

Here's asnapshot of the story:

Two young Englishmen, Harry Taylor, aminor felon, and Patrick Galbraith, anavy marine lieutenantserving on the final convict transport ship, are bound for Australia in October 1867.

Harry and Patrick becomefriends, and both end up at Trial Bay Prison on the north coast of New South Wales.

In return for goodbehaviour, an early release allows them to explore the hinterland. Opportunity knocks when the pair have aviolent run-in with bushrangers and land awindfall beyond their wildest dreams.

But their newfoundwealthalso haunts them throughout adventurous lives filled with indigenous warriors, cattle thieves, murderers, and colourfulfigures of the colony's racing and farming industries.

Harry and Patrick findlove in the arms of beautiful women, but their good fortune comes under threat when aghost from their past emerges.

Mr Tucker embarked on his fourth authorial adventure following the success of his first three books: Ned Kelly’s Son; The Stolen Maps: Australia’s greatest maritime secret? and Aussie Anecdotes.

"

ASense of Justice was inspired by the thought of witnessing life on the outskirts of recorded history and suggesting alternative feasible outcomes,

albeit not as historians conjectured," Mr Tucker said.

"I havenow formed the belief thatwriting is amost satisfying outlet for creativity …both challenging, and relaxing.

"However, writingisnot just escapism, but rather the compulsion of aglorious illness, that which I call, 'The Dreamer’sDisease'... themoreyou give, the more you receive."

The book is available now internationally in print and ebook formats. Buy it locally from Collins Booksellers Sale in-store or phone 5144 6262 to speaktotheir friendly staff and order acopy.

Sale Cinemaproprietor ValHodges beside aposterfor The Super MarioBros. Movie

Photo: TomParry

ASenseofJustice is out now.

Images: Contributed

Sale authorTrevor Tucker.

Tinamba brings the festival vibe

YOU can’t keep agood Gippsland festival down…

That was certainly the feedback from the many festival-goerswho travelledfrom far and wide to attend the 13th annual Tinamba Food and Wine Festival on Sunday,April 16.

Despite the rain, the wet-weather plan was quickly put into action and festival patrons had a choice of seating under a30-metre long marquee, and inside the Tinamba Hotel.

While attendancewas down overall because of the weather, the atmosphere was buzzing with a community party vibe. With 690 ticketssold, those who came were determined to make the most of the day and support the local food vendors, producers and wineries celebrating their products.

Wine Gippsland President, Alistair Hicks, of Blue Gables Vineyard,saidthe strong turnout was testament to the support Tinamba Food and Wine Festival has built over the years.

Heyfield resident, Emma Hunt -who wonthe festival VIP prize -has been to every festival since it began.

“Weare really pleased it went ahead -everyone’s having alot of fun,” she said.

Seven local wineries attended, and one meadery: Blue Gables, Glenmaggie Wines, Lightfoot Wines, Nicholson River, Mt Moornapa, Narkoojee Wines and Wyanga Park, and the Bearded Bee Meadery. Hatted restaurant Tinamba Hotel was serving up venison ragu, Maffra Cheese cob loaf and other treats, Tinamba CFAran the popular gourmet sausage sizzle and cake stall and there were other producers including Windsong FarmProvidore, Tarago Olives, What The Fudge, and food from The Bean Pedlar, GourmetFuel, LittleRed Bucket Gnocchi and Rosedale Pad Thai.

The only major change to the festival was that the planned big band stage was cancelled for safety reasons, but therewas liveacoustic music in the hotel.

Proceeds from ticket sales go to local community groups and service organisations who assist with the setup and running of thefestival.

Driving mentorswanted for L2P

TomParry

ACALLOUT is beingissuedfor volunteers to join theL2P program.

Funded by the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and facilitated by Mission Australia, the program aims to help learnerdrivers without access to asupervising driver or car reach their 120hours of supervised driving.

According to L2P project worker Sarah Jones, the initiative is seeking an additional 50 mentors to assist across the Wellingtonand East Gippsland Shires

“We’re really just calling on anyone in the community thathas alicence, good driving skills, and acalmdemeanour that really wants to help these young people… get their Ps andbesafeonthe road,” Ms Jones said.

As part of L2P, L-platersare paired with afullylicenced supervisor, known as a"mentor",who joins the motorist for an hour of driving each week, and continues with the program until the learner driver has obtained their probationary licence.

CaitlynDavidson is amongthe former participants to have graduated to theirP-platesthrough the program.

“Becausewith my mum working full-time, it was really hard to find atimetogodriving,” Ms Davidson said.

“Withmymum,Ionly got maybe ten hours over thespanofsix months.

“But as soon as Igot with the program, my hours came up by… another ten hours in the span of two months.”

Ms Davidson initiallylearnedabout L2P through afriend.

“She said that they were very good with being able to get her hours up and very accommodating, so Igaveitagoand loved it,” Ms Davidson said.

“I love how you’re in charge of figuring out when your lessons are going to be.”

Peter Cursley has been amentor with the program for two years, and is strongly encouraging locals to apply.

“After 40-odd years of driving, you pick up certain skills, and so it’s amatter of trying to pass those on to make younger drivers alot safer than they would be otherwise,” Mr Cursley said.

“Just do it -it’s as simple as that.

“It’s quite good fun, you get out and about, you spend some time with some lovely young people, and it’s just one hour aweek.”

Training sessionsfor the L2P program are being held in Bairnsdale on Friday, May 5and in Sale on Saturday, May 6.

To learn more about these sessions and the programitself,visitvicroads.vic.gov.au, call Sarah Jones on 0472 841 861 or send an email to jonessar@missionaustralia.com.au

Wine Gippsland President Alistair Hicks with CatherineHicks(background) Blue Gables VineyardofUpper Maffra. Photos: Contributed.

VIP prize winner Emma Hunt and friends.

Animal Aid looking for volunteers

Stefan Bradley

IT'S raining cats and dogs in Wellington. Animal Aid Sale is once again calling for moreanimal lovers to give cute and cuddlycats and dogs at their shelter anew home as kitten season ends, and dog adoptionshaveslowed. They are also looking for volunteers to assist in the shelter and donations of food and toys.

Animal Aid manager Debby Goddardsaida combination of COVIDrestrictions ending, cost of living pressures and adesire to go on holiday meant that dog adoptions were happeningata slower pace than usual.

“Wehave about 25 dogshere (in Sale),whenwe usually only have about 10,” Ms Goddard said.

Animal Aid attendant Megan said they wanted to ensure the dogs were adopted with asuitable owner, based on lifestyle and/or personality. Expression of interest forms must be filled first.

“Certain dogscan’t live withcats, and we havea bouncy 35kg dog that we don’t want to be homed with small children,” Megan said.

“Some peoplecome in wanting an active dog they can run with, so agreyhound wouldn’t be suitable as it’ll be knackered after five minutes.”

Ms GoodardsaidAnimalAid werelookingfor volunteers to assist on weekdays and weekends in avariety of roles during the hours of 9am to 4.30pm (3pm on weekends).

“If they can only do acouple of hours, that’s fine too,” Ms Goddard said.

“Volunteers can get involved in cleaning and feeding cats and dogs. There’s also lots of washing to do with the trays and bowls.

“They take the dogs for awalk and playwith them; they can socialise withthe cats, and the kittens need alot of cuddles.

“We’re also looking forpeopletohelp with administrative things. Also, off-site functions and informationdays likethe cat day coming up at Bunnings in Sale. We have so many roles. When COVID hit, many volunteers left and didn’t return.”

Donations of toys and coats for dogs, plus tins of Whiskers meatloaf for cats would mean alot for the animals sheltered at Animal Aid.

If you’re unable to adopt, Animal Aid is also looking for temporary foster carers for both cats and dogs.

“It’s nearing the end of kitten season, but we still have alot of kittens that could go out in private homes. You usually have them for afew days or a few weeks, sometimes longer,” Ms Goodard said. WithWellington ShireCouncil officiallyenforcing the 24-hour cat curfew fromJuly 1, Animal Aid is also partnering with Bunnings Warehouse in Sale this Sunday for aCarefor your Cat Day, to help cat owners preparefor the change and keep them entertained indoors. This includes potting your own cat-friendly plants and making your own cat toys. There will also be araffle and giveaways.

“This day will have plentyofinformationtohelp you keep your cat contained on your property.” Ms Goodard said.

To adopt acat or adog, visit Animal Aid from 11am-3pmonweekdays, and 11am-2pm on weekends. Care for your Cat Day at Bunnings Warehouse in Sale is this Sunday, April 30 from 10am to 1pm.

Have your say on strategy

NATIONALS Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath, is encouraging regional Victorians to have their say on Victoria’s 30-year infrastructure strategy.

Infrastructure Victoriaisanindependent body which advises the state government how and where infrastructure is needed to support fair access for all.

Ms Bath said Infrastructure Victoria has an open publicconsultation to help identify infrastructure needs across the state from 2025-2055.

“Given the city-centric nature of theAndrews government, it’s vitally important for regional Victoria’s to be aware of this consultation process and provide input,” Ms Bath said.

“Under the Andrews government, the infrastructure needs of regional Victoria’s has been relegated to the back of the queue -our roads, hospitals, public transport, housingand community facilities have failed to keep pace withdemand, resulting in social inequityin our country areas.

“In the last state budget, regional Victoria only received 13 per cent of infrastructure funding despite representing 25 percent of the population -the city bias must be addressed in future budgets.

“The pandemic has exacerbated the need for improved infrastructure in regionalVictoria after many people made the decision to move from Melbourne into the regions.

“The ongoing economic uncertainly and rising

cost of living in Victoria, combined with benefits of space, lower house pricesand ahigher quality of life has all placed pressure on regional infrastructure.”

Ms Bath said given Infrastructure Victoria’s consultation is looking at the needs of the state up until 2055, it was vital for young people to have theirsay and not just those livingin Melbourne.

“Ultimately any infrastructure decisions made for the coming 30 years in regional Victoria is going to impact the lives and livelihoods of young people and their future families," Ms Bath said.

“While infrastructure Victoria is holding a youthforum, it’smetropolitan based-youth forums shouldalsobeheldinall regional centres to provide balance.

“The future needs of all Victorians must be the focusofstate government decision making, and regional Victoria deserves its fair share of infrastructure spending to addressinequalities “Our local communities want tangible action delivered in atimelymanner, and not aheadlinewhenitcomestoimportantregional infrastructure projects.

“I’m encouraging locals to have their say and so the needsofregional Victorians are firmly put on the state government’s agenda.” Infrastructure Victoria’sconsultation process remains open until Sunday, May 28. Feedbackcanbecompletedonlineatengage.vic. gov.au/victorias30yearinfrastructurestrategy

From left: Buddy thedog, Animal Aid attendants Meganand Jackie, andZiggy the dog

Ziggyand Lucky SALE PRIMARY SCHOOLS’ 2024 FOUNDATION (PREP) ENROLMENTS. Interested parents and carers of Prep age children areinvited to attend these information sessionsatthe above schools.

have INFORMATIONSESSIONS/OPEN DAYS Sale ‘545’ Primary School Macalister Street,Sale Phone 5144 5545 Thursday18th May 9:30am Information Session /Tour Additional toursavailable by appointment

personalitiesand aresuited Guthridge Primary School Dawson Street,Sale Phone 5144 3633 Tuesday 16th May 9:30am Information Session /Tour Additional toursavailable by appointment

Araluen Primary School Patten Street,Sale Phone 5144 2111 Friday19th May 9:30am Information Session /Tour Additional tours available by appointment

Sale &District Specialist School 333 Princes Highway,Sale Phone 5144 5644 Friday19thMay 11am -1pm Information Session Afterhours by appointment GP1 655627

Launch your film career and save alife

StefanBradley

CAN your story save alife?

Acompetition for storytellers is now open for all young Victorians to help start aconversation about road safety and drowsy driving.

TheVictorian Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC)fifth annual Split Second Competition has returned for its biggest year yet, with entries now open for young creatives who want to improve road safety for their peers.

Therewere sevenfatalroad crashes in Wellington Shire in 2022,and therehave alreadybeen two so far in 2023.

In the Gippsland region more broadly, there have been seven fatal crashes to date in 2023, up from four this time last year.

This year, the competition is open to all content creatorsaged 18 to 25, with entrantsinvited to submit ascriptand storyboard for ashort film focusingoneither drowsy driving or vehicle safety. The winner will receive a$5000 cash prize and $70,000 production budget, and the runner up will be awarded aproduction budget of $30,000; both will work with prestigious production company Sweetshop to bring their concept to life.

TAC Head of Road Safety, Samantha Cockfield said 17 people aged between 18 and 25 have been killed on the state’s roads, up from 13 at this time in 2022 and almost double the five-year average.

“TheSplit Second Competition prides itselfon giving young Victorians the opportunity to use their story and film making skills to directly communicate with peers on important road safety issues,” Ms Cockfield said.

“Reducing the prevalence of drowsy driving, and promoting vehicle safety, are critical in improving road safety outcomes for young Victorians, and by engaging young creatives in the process we’re

ensuring thatmessages are deliveredinarelatable way.”

Over the last five years, more than 70 per cent of driver and passenger fatalitiesaged between 18 and 25 have been in vehicles more than ten years old, and 54 per cent of drivers in this age group admit to driving while very tired.

Drowsy driving is estimated to contribute to around20to25per cent of serious injuries and fatalities amongdrivers in Victoria,whileolder carsare likelytohave fewer safetyfeaturesand arelesslikely to help drivers avoid acollision.

The SplitSecond Competition has received 675 entries since launching in 2018 and has produced four films, helpingkick-start the careers of their creatorswhile engaging youngVictorians in road safety.

In 2020, aspiring filmmaker and Melbournebased comedian AlexLowes’ short-film concept was brought to life after winning the competition. Highlighting the dangers of driving while using amobile phone, Mr Lowes’ fantasy-themed film A Trial Before the King was picked as the winning script from more than 200 entrants and stars Logie Award-winning actor Firass Dirani as King Elmore.

The film tells the story of ayoung peasant in her early 20s, accused of riding her horse into amarketstall.Facing atribunal, King Elmore finds her guilty of putting quill to parchment while commanding her horse.

Mr Lowes,25, told the Gippsland Times the film aimed to balance aserious roadsafetymessage with comedy.

“I’vegot abackground in comedy, so the challenge of writing something with aserious message appealed to me,” Mr Lowes said.

“A lot of ads with those serious messages can be hard hittingand emotional, which can be quite good, but Iwanted abit of humour to appeal to

youngpeople.I thought TAC wouldbeexcited about that.

“I knew an ad like that would typically have lots of phones and cars in it. Idecided if Itransported to awhole different time period, you’d get rid of all thethings you’d expect to see in an ad like that.

“Andatthat time, therewas alot of fantasy content being made, and GameofThrones had just ended.”

ATrial Before the King was shown as an advertisementbefore film screenings at Village Cinemas.

According to TAC data, drivers between the age 18 and 25 are twice as likely to make aphone call than older drivers, four times more likely to text and they are more likely to read emails or use the internet while driving.

The dangers of distracted driving are significant: atwo-secondglance at yourphone whiledriving at 50km/h means travelling blind for 28 metres; this increases to 55 metres when travelling at 100km/h.

Mr Lowes received $5000 in prizemoney and a$50,000-budget to work with award-winning production company AirBag to create his film.

Mr Lowesshared his own tips for entering the competition.

“Write the script, then put that document aside, and then get anew document and write abrand new script from scratch, he said.

“You’re not gonna write the same script, but it’s agood test to see which parts of your idea are the most memorable.”

Mr Lowes,who has visited Gippsland on a number of occasions, said that 2023’s theme of drowsy drivingisparticularly relevant to regional Victorians

“The most times I’ve felt fatigued is driving through regional Victoria. Sometimesyou have to stop andrest. You really havetotake care of yourself if you’re driving for nine hours,” he said.

“I don’t think you get that particularly as much in the city.”

Thecompetitionnot only helps to get the message to thefilms’ audience, but also enlighten the filmmakers on road safety.

“The road rules are there for avery important reason -tokeep you safe.When you’re young and you first start driving, you’re just trying to avoid getting in trouble. But when you hear the statisticsand how many peopledie,you realise how important those rules are,” Mr Lowes said.

“That’s why Ithink the competition is cool, because you’re helping to save lives.”

Another previous winner Felix Barnett, who’s film To Die For addressed the risksofdrinkdriving, said winning has been invaluable in giving him a greater awareness of all the processes and talented individuals involved in actually making afilm.

“Not only did Iget to work with some of the very best in the industry, Ihad such agreat response from the screening of To Die For -many old high school friends reached outtotell me howpowerful they thought it was,” Mr Barnett said.

“I’ve since gone on to work as an advertising Art Director, writing scripts, editing, dabbling in visual effects, and workingwithsound studios. It’s safe to say I’ve got the filmmaking bug,” he said.

The winning film will launch at ACMI later this year and will continue to be aired in cinemas across the state between October and November 2023, with the runner-up film being promoted via social media

So, if you’re asocial media whiz, advertising or marketing professional, or acreative who wants to make content that has impact, visit tac.vic.gov. au/road-safety/splitsecondfor more information on the competition and how to enter.

Entries close Thursday, May 4.

Comedian,filmmakerand 2020 competition winner Alex Lowes. Images: Contributed

‘A Trial Beforethe King’byAlexLowes, featuring ahorse wearing agreen P-Plate.

PLENTYOFROOM TO MOVE

Briefdetails fdetails

Property: Four bedroom home on Fourbedroom one acre

Address: 135-137 PowerscourtStreet, 13 Maffra Maffr

Price: $749,500

Located on the outskirts of Maffra is this spacious property with lots to offer.

Situatedonapproximatelyone acre, thisbrick veneer home consists of four bedrooms, separate lounge, acombined kitchen/meals/living area, renovatedbathroom and separate laundry.

All four bedrooms are equipped with built-in robes and ceiling fans, while the modern bathroom contains ashower, bath and vanity.

The kitchen features gas hotplates, electric oven, dishwasher andcorner pantry. The large windows from the kitchen and living area overlook the spacious backyard allowing you to watch the kids play at all times.

The home features gas heating and areverse cycle air conditioning unit.

Externally, thereisalarge paved undercover area with built-in BBQ connected to natural gas, ideal for entertaining guests. There is adouble carport adjoining the house and agarage/workshop with power and concrete floor, plus storage shed.

The house block is fully fenced and has aseparate paddock ideal for apony or for additional shedding. This property also benefits from beingconnected to town water and natural gas.

Agents say all your family needs are catered for with this fantastic property.

Inspection is strictly by appointment.

Ifyou’re looking for aquality,low maintenance home then look no further.Agentssay this well-designed property offers comfort and privacy.

Contained within the deceptivelyspacious dwelling are three generously-sized bedrooms, including alovelymaster with walk-in robe and ensuite, plus two further bedrooms each fitted with built-in robes and sharing acentral main bathroom with separate toilet. There are two living areas including a

This is the one T Thhis t thhe

sitting room (or home office) plus asubstantial open plan family/meals/kitchen area that connects to the north-facing outdoor area, boasting folding arm awning. The spacious kitchen offers quality appliances and plenty of storage and bench space.

Agents say the outside is easy-care with neat and tidy gardens, Colorbond fencing to all boundaries and aprivate courtyard to the front of the property

Additional features of this property include aEuro-style laundry in the double garage

Briefdetails ails

Property: Three bedroom home

with direct internal access, ducted central heating, split system air conditioning, a 5.2kw solar system, great storage throughout and front security doorbell.

Address: 1/44 Mark Avenue, Sale

Price: $575,000

Contact: Victoria Cook, Graham Chalmer Real Estate, 0417 017182

Riverside rarity with mountain range views

It’snot very often that aproperty of this nature becomes available, according to agents.

This generational family home overlooks the Macalister River and is not farfromLakeGlenmaggie. The property is set very privately back from the road and neighbours, and afull length veranda takes in the spectacular view of the river and onto the mountain ranges beyond.

Spacious throughout, the home boasts a large kitchen, dining and lounge. Aparents’ retreat at the northern end of the home features awalk-in robe and ensuite, as well as asmaller room alongside which would suit anursery or home office. The other two bedrooms are in the south end of the house and have built-in robes and easy access to the family bathroom.

Outside there is alarge orchard nursery afurther deck entertaining area and alarge carport. Further shedding allows for aman

cave, machinery/hay shed and aworkshop with afurther toilet. The property also features awater right and agrazing right. Inspection is strictly by appointment with the agent.

Briefdetails

Property: Private riverside farmhouse with three bedrooms

Address: Available on request

Price: Available on request

Contact: Glen Synnott, AlexScott and Staff, 0467 550 904

“TIR-NA-NOG”

GRAZING, RESTORE OR BUILD

Being offered for auction is “TIRNA-NOG”. Owned by the Allman family since 1906 and once part of alarger holding prior to soldier settlement, this property rich in history offers quality irrigation land, plus acentury-old homestead and outbuildings with original features that offerpotential for restoration.

The land area is 35.02 hectares (86.55 acres approx.) in the renowned Macalister Irrigation District with quality soils suitable for arange of uses. There is agenerous water right of 109.3 megalitres High Reliability and 51.5ML Low ReliabilityWater

Shares serviced through one outlet. The property is subdivided into seven paddocks, boundaries are well-fenced, and all is sown to perennial pastures.

The homestead is Federation-style circa 1910, named TIR-NA-NOG (“land of the young”) and whilst in need of some TLC,has most of the features of the time still intact.

The lounge features pressed tin, chandelier and bay window,while therestofthe home features high ceilings, awide hallway, butler’spantry,originaldoors and wrought iron veranda trims.

Outbuildings include ashearing shed of the same vintage and an intact slab-sided

stable, complete with original horse stalls and clay-fired brick flooring. The only thing missing is the horse and buggy!

There are also plenty of places to build a new home on this property STCA. Well-located with major towns only a30-minute drive away,agentssay this property offers versatility either as grazing, historic restoration or somewhere to build your dream home on acreage.

Briefdetails

Property: Three bedroom Federation home on acreage

Address: 1164 Denison Road, Denison

Auction: Saturday, May26, 11am on site

Contact: Tim Missen, Wellington Real Estate, 0488 483 000

VERSATILE IRRIGATION BLOCK

-141 acres

-Outstanding alluvial soils

-1xlateral move Reinkeirrigator (8 span)

-1xReinkecentrepivot (3 span)

-180 megalitres high reliability water

-90megalitreslow reliability water

-Cattle yards

-Ideally would suit vegetable production, cropping or lucerne growing

Price on Application

Contact: Paul Bourke0428 451366

118-120 Johnson Street,Maffra 5147 2200 www.gippslandrealestate.com

COWWARR-HEYFIELD ROAD, COWWARR

Perfect family home in Maffra

AGENTS say this property is ideal for buyers looking for amodern home, boasting room for the family whilst being close to some of Maffra’smost popular facilities such as the Maffra Recreation Reserve, Maffra Lawn Tennis courts, wetlands walking track and swimming pool.

The layout flows perfectly with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, dual living zones, study nook and large entertaining space under-roof, and entry via the remote double garage.

The open plan includes astylish kitchen

with walk-in pantry and 900mm oven, along with the Caesarstone island bench in a striking black colour,which blends both the dining and entertaining space together beautifully

Built by local reputable builders, the homes quality fixtures and fittings highlight the taste and décor that comes with aquality build.

Set well on the spacious 817sqm block, the home blends well in the contour of the land, with alarge shed at the rear easily accessed for storage of items.

Other features of the property include:

 Stylish ensuite and bathroom;

 Robes in all the bedrooms, with awalk-in to the master;

 Gas ducted heating;

 Reverse cycle unit;

 Solar system plus solar hot water;

 Shed with sliding door access, storage, workshop, and entertaining space.

Be sure to call for an inspection of this lovely property

Briefdetails fdetails

Property:

Research to tackle water damage in concrete balconies

THE VictorianBuildingAuthority (VBA)continues to take proactive measures to tackleaproblematic issue faced by apartment residents -water damage caused by moisture ingress in concrete balconies -byfunding research by Swinburne University of Technology.

Led by Professor Shan Shanmuganantha Kumar and in collaboration with Housing Industry Association, the project aims to reduce the frequency of water-related defects encountered in concrete balconiesinapartment buildings by identifying opportunities for improvement in concrete balcony design and construction practices, as well as regulatory standards.

The VBA’s State Building Surveyor, Andrew Cialini, said the regulator is supporting research that will find, or contribute to, new and innovative solutionsthat minimise moisture ingress and water damage.

“Water damage routinely tops the list of defects encountered in buildings and in complaints to the VBA,” Mr Cialini said.

“Reducing the risk of moisture ingress and water damage in Victorian buildings through our regulatory activities is one of the VBA’s focus areas. By improving building practices, we also aim to alleviate any health, amenity, and structural integrity impacts for all Victorians.”

Research conducted by or supportedbythe VBA provides the evidence base to inform regulatory decisions and effect change in the regulatory system and to support an informed and thriving industry, with good practice and competentand skilled practitioners.

ProfessorShanmugananthaKumar said the research would identify opportunities to improve structural systems, methods of build, and the propertiesand performanceofmaterials to limit balcony water ingress.

“This research intends not only to investigate building materialsand methods, but also study waterproofing methods, to quantify their

Firstwomen’s captain for MalacootaFireBrigade

TRACEY Johnston never imagined that crawling throughdarktunnels and dropping from dizzying heights would lead her to becoming Mallacoota Fire Brigade’s first woman captain.

However, after attending the recent South East Region Women’s Network Challenge Camp, Ms Johnston had anew-found sense of confidence, which saw her being elected by her peers to lead the brigade for the next two years.

Afterbeing supported by the Mallacoota residents for more than 30 yearsasasmall business owner, Ms Johnston thought joining her local brigade in 2018 would be anice way to give back to her community.

Whileincredibly humble about her involvement, during her secondyear as avolunteer Ms Johnston played an integral part during the 2019/20 bushfire season.

“If Ihadn’t been recoveringfromsurgery,Iwould havebeen on atanker. Instead, Iwas stationed at theMallacoota Local CommandFacility in aradio communications role,” she said.

“I stepped outsideafterthe firefront had passed and as the smoke cleared Istarted patrolling the immediate area.

“Therewas abuilding afew doorsupwith a plume of smoke, which turned out to be avehicle on fire. When Iwent for acloser look, Isaw atruck and trailer with a(bulldozer) loaded on it nearby. The back of the trailer felt abit warm,soIthought I’d better try to move it out of the way.

“Thankfully the keys were still in it and Iwas able to move it forward and away from danger.

“I later found out that‘dozer was the one and only piece of heavy machineryinMallacoota, which was vital to the town’s clean-up and recovery, so I’m glad Iwas able to move it out of harm’s way.”

Ms Johnstonsaidfear didn’tcomeinto it because she relied on the training she had received.

“We prepared the best we could and the result was everything we could have hoped for, as not a single life was lost in Mallacoota,” she said.

Ms Johnston also credits her role as amentee with CFA’s newly created Women in Leadership mentoring program for playing alarge part in her CFA journey, which saw her matched with a mentor on the other side of the state.

“I’ve never had amentor before, so it’s been a

new experience for me,” Ms Johnston said.

“It’s been greatbeing able to reach out to someone who’s already been there and done that, to get some advice or adifferent perspective on things.

“Another benefit of the program has been challenging my own perception of unconscious bias. I used to be abit of awallflower and didn’t want to be seen as ashow-off, so Inever imagined myself in aleadership role.

“Now, especially with the support of my mentor, I’m stepping out of my comfort zone and trying new things. Hopefully Ican help inspire others to do the same.”

With most brigade leadership roles beginning at

the startofthe financialyear, Ms Johnston has afew months untilher captaincyofficially starts, and she is using this time forforwardplanning “One of my firstgoals as captain will be driving recruitment to attract new members to the brigade, while bringing the focus back to family.

“I’d like to offer more daytime training, to encourage new members like stay-at-home parents to come along and supportthem in bringingthe whole family down to the station.

“There’s no reason the station can’t be awelcoming place for everyone; we’ve got apool table and big TV, the fridge and bickie tin are fully stocked and there’s plenty of space for the little kidsto ride their bikes.

“There are evenquiet spaces if the older kids need to get their homework done while their parents are training or attending ameeting. Everyone is welcome.”

When asked what advice she has for others considering aleadership role, or even just joining their local brigade,MsJohnston strongly suggests taking every opportunity presented.

“Don’t say no, just have ago!”

effectiveness using awhole-of-life investigation framework, which includes repair and replacement costs,” Professor Shanmuganantha Kumar said.

The VBA recently held aPractitioner Education Series webinar for industry stakeholders on ways to combat water damage and indoor mould. Through the Research GrantProgram, the VBA supports researchers at Australian universities and TAFEs find innovative solutions to challenges in the Victorian building and plumbing sector. This grant was awardedunder the second round of research grants fundedbythe VBA, withgrants awarded to RMIT University and the University of Sydney this year.

Tracey Johnston hopestoinspireothers during her captaincy, andisplanning afamily focussedrecruitment drive.

Tracey duringthe 2019/20 bushfireseason.

Burn-offs expected in coming weeks

WITH fire restrictions easing in some parts of the state, and calm autumn conditions,hundredsof private resident burn-offs, agricultural burns and planned burns are expected to take place over the coming weeks.

While current conditions are ideal for burning, weather patterns may cause smoke to linger over parts of the state overnight and through to early morning.

The Chief Fire Officer of ForestFire Management Victoria, Chris Hardman, saidthe climatewas changing. “That means finding the right days for safeand effective plannedburning is also changing. Planned burns are acriticalpart of astatewide bushfire risk management program,” he said.

“FFMVic’s number one priority is to protect life, property and the environment fromthe risk of bushfires, and that is what we will continue to do.

Mr Hardmansaidreducing fine fuels such as grass, leaves, bark, shrubs and fallen branches meant fires were less intense and slower to spread. This made it more likely that firefighters couldkeep bushfires small and contained before they posed a risk to communities.

“We must go aheadwith the planned burning program while conditions are suitable, and it is safe to do so to avoid an increased fire risk in the future,” he said.

“Smoke could be aresult of private resident burn-offs, planned burnsand agricultural burns. We work closely withthe Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and Bureau of Meteorology to keep the smoke impact from planned burns as low as practically possible and inform the community while delivering the program.

“Victorians can also sign up for plannedburn

notifications to prepare for any impact on their health or activities.”

The Chief Officer of the CFA, Jason Heffernan, urged Victorians to conductprivate burn-offs safely.

“Whilethe Fire Danger Period has ended in some areas, it is still important that residents check the local conditionsare safeand appropriate for burning off -both on the day and the days following,” he said.

“When conductingprivate resident burn-offs, remain alert and always have resources on hand to extinguish the fire.

“We ask the community to register their burnoff as this ensures if someone reports smoke, the incident can be monitoredand acknowledgedearly.

“If possible, landowners should also notify their neighbours and others nearby who may be sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.”

Victoria’s Chief Environmental Scientist, Professor Mark Patrick Taylor, said the EPA understood that smoke from planned burns and private burn-offs can cause health concerns, and was monitoring air quality across the state.

“You can check air quality for your area through our air monitoring system, EPA AirWatch,” Professor Taylor said.

“Your nose is also an excellent smoke detector. If you can smell smoke, take the necessary precautions to protect your health.”

For the latestinformation about whenand where plannedburnsare happening, visitplannedburns. ffm.vic.gov.au

Detailed information about current air quality throughout Victoria can be found on EPA’s website. If people see or smell smoke outside, they should reduce their exposure to smoke by staying indoors and closing windows and doors -but only if it’s safe to do so.

Tips for looking afteryourhealth when there is smoke can be found on EPA’s ‘Smoke and your health’ webpage- epa.vic.gov.au/for-community/ environmental-information/air-quality/smoke/ smoke-your-health

Keep your burn off safe and legal:

 Check fire restrictions in your area and always register your burn at firepermits.vic.gov. au or by calling 1800 668 511;

 Check and monitor weather conditionsparticularly wind;

 To avoid unnecessary calls to emergency services, notify your neighbours beforehand;

 Leave athree-metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn;

 Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading;

 Never leave aburn-off unattended -stay for its entire duration; and

 If your burn-off gets out of control, call ‘000’ immediately.

Farmer fined and banned for animal abuse charges

AMALLEE farmer has been fined $65,000 and disqualified for 25 years from owning any farm animal or being aperson in charge of any farm animal, afterpleading guilty to animal cruelty charges and being sentenced recently at the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court.

Agriculture Victoria program manager for animal health and welfare compliance, Daniel Bode, said Steven Ralston was convicted of 14 charges, including multiple failures to provide properand sufficient food and drink to his livestock, afailure to treat flystrike sheep and abreach of apreviously imposed order by the court requiring Mr Ralston to provide appropriate care to his stock.

“The court heardthe charges related to a failure to provide food and drink and an outbreak of flystrike in aflock of more than 1320 sheep at Mr Ralston’s properties in Corack and Chinkapook between March and April 2020.”

Mr Bode said Agriculture Victoriaofficers first attendedthe propertyinearly March 2020 in response to an animal welfare complaint.

“During the first inspection, officers observed approximately 500 head of sheep of mixed age and sex with long wool and dags,” he said. “Some were observed to be wool blind,

preventing them from findingfood, shelter and escaping predators. Ten sheep, including young weaner aged sheep were observed to have flystrike, and one was euthanised due to its poor body condition.”

Mr Bode said Mr Ralston also failed to register adequate Property Identification Codes (PIC) information for his Corack and Chinkapook properties. His PIC covered 17 parcels of land in Corack, but not the other 16 parcels of landwhichhehad livestock on in Corack. Additionally, Mr Ralston did not have aPIC for the seven parcels of land in Chinkapook. Officers attended theproperties six separate times and issued several noticestocomply “Over this time,sheep were found in barren paddocks, and shearing sheds without adequate food or drinkand appearedweakand lethargic,” Mr Bode said.

Anyone wishing to make aspecific complaint in regard to the welfare of commercial livestock on Victorian farms can contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or aw.complaint@agriculture.vic.gov.au

Photo: File

Newcomen addtoselection

Zoe Askew

ENSAY stud Newcomen Herefords has expanded their sire selection with premium bulls from Tasmanian studs Valma Herefords and Quamby Plains.

Paying $30,000 and $16,500 for Valma Herefords’ top two bulls, respectively, and $22,000 for Quamby Plains’ top bull -acombined cost of $68,500 -Barry Newcomen of Newcomen Herefordsbelieves he received valuefor his money.

“Lot 7(ValmaSavage) was $30,000; he is avery nice bull,” Mr Newcomen said.

“He is just agood bull all around -not too high in the birth weight, so he’llbegood to join the heifers; he is just areally good bull, and since he has been home, he has just been getting better and better.

“I’ve paid alot of money for bulls over the years.. so Ithink this bull at $30,000, it is hard to say whether he is as good as the others or not, but he is certainly agoodabull and Ithink he is well worththe money.”

Lot11(Valma Safehouse),priced at $16,500, was the bull Mr Newcomen really wanted.

“I expected to have to pay alot more money for him, he is perhaps not quite as pretty abull as Lot 7, but he’s got fantastic growth figures, he’s muscly, he’s terrific, and he’s got really good hind quarters, he will put some weight in the progeny,” Mr Newcomen explained.

“I’ve been going more into polls, and Ifind that they’re not quite as heavy and as meaty as the horns Ihave been breading over the years, so I think this fella will really put some meat into my poll progeny.”

Both the bulls’ breed plan figures are well balanced; Savage has agood head, good scrotal and hind quarters, dark in the coat, apreference for Newcomen Herefords, and aquiettemperament. Safehouseshould putweight on anything he sires.

Newcomen Herefords purchased Lot 7and Lot 11 fromthe Valma Herefords auction in Tasmania at the end of March, with the bulls arriving at the Ensay stud in mid-April.

Mr Newcomen is now waiting for his top bull,

purchasedfor $22,000from Quamby Plainsin mid-April, to arrive.

“He’s got good figures,” Mr Newcomen said.

“I’ve seen the bull; Iwent over to Tassie about amonth ago and had adrive around both those studs.

“The Quamby Plains bull, he’s another onewith alot of meat on him, and he’s got good figures to match it, so Ithink he will put alot of weight and structure into my cattle, not that Ihaven’t got it now, but Ithink he will improve it.”

While BreedPlan figures are important in any bull, Mr Newcomen says agood bull has the right structure.

“He’s got to have good feet, good temperament, good colour, good shaped legs, all those sorts of things have got to be right,” Mr Newcomen said.

“I think these three bulls I’ve got fit that; Ithink they’ve been good buys, and they’re good bulls,

andI’m expecting,Iamvery hopeful, they will breed well for me.”

Barry Newcomen and his brother established Newcomen Herefords in Ensay 63 years ago, dissolving the partnership after 34 years in 1994.

Mr Newcomen and his wife have continued to manage Newcomen Herefords, calving about 350 cows annually.

“We’vegot afew more two-year-old heifers calving out than normal this year,” Mr Newcomen said.

“We’ve got 80, which is the most we’ve ever had calving, and up to date, 64 have got live calves, which is arecord for me.

“We haven’t lost acalf out of heifers calving yet; we’ve pulled two of them, they were alive, easypull, but to get64calves withouta lossisan outstanding achievementfor us, or for anybody.”

Newcomen Herefordspurchased Lot7(ValmaSavage) for$30,000 from Tasmanian stud Valma Herefords in late March.

Photo: Contributed

An open letter to Treasurer Jim Chalmers regarding the Budget

Dear Dr Chalmers, Thereʼs acrisis in our country you can fix in your first budget, at no extra cost.

With the stroke of apen you could help secure the future of critical regionalnews services, using money already allocated in the budget. All you need to do is allocate afairer percentage of the federal governmentʼs advertising budget to local and regional news services, rather than spending almost allofitwith corporate capital city media and foreign-owned digital platforms (which donʼt produce any content or employ any journalists).

This can be achieved by simply adopting the Victorian Govt policy that mandates a weekly full page government advertisement in every regional and community paper

Local and regional newspapers connect more than 80% of the country,but they get almost 0% of the government advertising spend.

In an era where false news spreads faster on social media than the truth does,trusted local news services reach more regional Australians than any other medium. And unlike other media, every government dollar spent with alocal newspaperisalso an investment in regional journalism jobs. This shouldnʼt be controversial.

Arecent parliamentary inquiry recommended that aminimum of 20% of government print advertising should be placed with regional news services. Arecent study conducted by Deakin University recommended the same thing. In fact, the Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, has been advocating for more regional newspaper advertising for many years.

We know there may be bigger budget issues, but this small policy change would be a simple and fair solution to agrowing problem for regional Australia. Apolicy that ensures weekly federal government advertising is placed in regional newspapers would be great news for the country. And it wonʼt cost you acent.

Yours sincerely,

Tony Kendall President Managing Director Country Press Australia Australian Community Media

Andrew Manuel

Authorised by A Manuel 9 Howe Street Balaklava SA 5461

AGISTMENT

WELLINGTONSHIRE COUNCIL

Draft Council Budget 2023/24

Seeking Submissions on the draft 2023/24 Budget Wellington ShireCouncil has prepared adraftBudget forthe financial year commencing on 1July2023 and ending 30 June 2024 and is seeking written submissions. The draft 2023/24 Budget will be available on Council’s websitewww.wellington.vic.gov.au from Wednesday 19 April to Monday 8May 2023.

Submission Process

SALE BRICKS

Submissions will be considered in accordancewith Section 96 of the LocalGovernment Act 2020. Any person proposing to makeawrittensubmission on the draft 2023/24 Budget must do so no later than 5.00pm on Monday 8May 2023.

Thereare three options available forsubmissions: Hardcopy: Your submission should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer,WellingtonShire Council, 18 Desailly Street(PO BOX506), Sale VIC 3850 and marked as DRAFT BUDGET SUBMISSION.

Online: Complete the online submission form on the Your Wellington Your Say website (https://your.wellington.vic.gov.au/).

In Person: Attend the Special Council Meeting on Thursday 18 May 2023 from 3:00pm at the Council Chambers, Port of Sale (Wellington Centre) 70 Foster Street, Sale. Anyperson wishing to be heard in support of their submission is entitledtobeheard by Councilorberepresented by aperson acting on their behalf, at the Special Council Meeting on Thursday 18 May2023at3.00pm in the Council Chamberatthe WellingtonCentre, 70 Foster Street, Sale Afterconsideration of submissions,Council willconsider the adoption of the 2023/24BudgetataCouncil Meeting on Tuesday6June2023 at 3.00pm

Due to continued business growth at Pund & Associates we are seeking applications to join our friendly and efficient Administration team in our Maffra office. The role will be an administration assistant. The position will be offered on afull-timebasis.

The successful applicant must have the following skills:

● At least 2years' experience in office administration.

● Good time management and organisation skills with the ability to work unsupervised.

● Sound knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel & Outlook as well as sound general computer skills.

● Being client focused and with awillingness to help.

Pund &Associates is afamily owned and operated business. We service clients throughout Gippsland and Melbourne with a focus on supporting growing businesses.

If you are interested in acareer with us and are motivated and enjoy working in asmall team environment we wantyou to apply.

Please forward your resume along with acover letter to: kellie@pundandassociates.com.au Applications close: Friday

Situations Vacant • Situations Vacant • Situations Vacant • Deaths • Deaths • Deaths •

Farm Maintenance Experience in electric fencing, tractor driving and general farm maintenance. Drivers licence essential. Phone 5147 1828 Want to earn some pocket money? Newspaper Deliverers required for Part Jackson Ave Treloar St Dugan St Elston Ct McLachlan St once aweek Please phone Sue 0403 00 6347

Want

2012 SR5 HILUX

Deliverers required for

St area once aweek

Situations Vacant

•

Covino Farms, Longford

This position reports to the Maintenance Manager and will be responsible for maintenance of heavy vehicles, agricultural equipment and various machinery across our site ensuring all repairs are completed in atimely and safe manner.

As aDiesel Mechanic, you will diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair Diesel vehicles and equipment to ensure smooth functioning of the company's operations.

To be successful in this role ideally you will have:

● Heavy Diesel Experience.

● Minimum 5years' experience as aDiesel Mechanic in the service and maintenance of heavy diesel vehicles, agricultural equipment, and similar applications.

● Previous workshop exposure would be highly regarded.

● Solid diagnostic capabilities.

● Amature attitude and logical and methodical approach to your work.

Please forward your resume to hr@covino.com.au

Advertising Consultant -Sales

Part-time

The Gippsland Times is your local newspaper, distributing our publications throughout the Wellington Shire and beyond.

Apart-time position has become available for a sales consultant in our advertising department. The department is responsible for managing and exceeding set targets set out by management, maintaining astrong client base throughout the local community and through the print and online medium, working to strengthen and promote local businesses.

We are seeking an individual with the following positive attributes:

● Must work as part of ateam.

● Organised and able to work to deadlines.

● Be motivated as well as goal orientated.

● Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

● The ability to work unsupervised.

For acopy of the position description, please email Advertising Manager, Matthew Fitzgerald: mfitzgerald@gippslandtimes.com.au or phone 5143 9309.

Applications addressing the positive attributes along with the names and contact details of three referees should be forwarded to:

The Advertising Manager Gippsland Times 74 Macalister Street, Sale 3850

Or via email: mfitzgerald@gippslandtimes.com.au

Applications close 5pm, Friday May 5, 2023.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Aged 70. Passed away peacefully on the 22/04/23 at Ashleigh House Sale surrounded by her family. Devoted wife of Greg, loving mother to Mel (Melissa) and Pep (Peta). Doting Nan to Will, Jack and Noah.

MELDRUM (nee Jensen), Sharon Therese.

To my amazing big sister Shaz.

Iwill missyou every day.

Ilove you more than words can say.

Your baby sister Chick (Deb) and Noddy ♥

MELDRUM, Sharon Therese.

Loved niece of Win and Mick Mason (both dec.). Adored cousin of Roy (dec.), Kaye, Shirley, Jill and Daryl (dec.). To know her was to love her.

Now pain free and resting in the arms of her loving parents.

FORD TERRITORY 2012 TS, silver 7seats 146,000K's diesel, ZIG263 TBar, Local car $16,500. RWC. Ph 0406 659 920

Blue/black BMW

2014, f800 GS, Adventure Touring Motorbike, 12,200kms, reg till July '23 $12,500. 0411 428 914.

CAMPERVAN

Please

Classifieds

JONES, Edward (Ted). 6/12/1936 -21/4/2023

Want Deaths •

Passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family.

To my darling Shaz, my heart is shattered but also comfortable that you are now at peace. Loving you for the last 51 years has been easy because of your loving caring generous nature and your strength through adversity.

You have pushed on regardless of the pain to do the things that needed to be done. Ihave so much pride and admiration for you, rest in peace my darling.

My darling Mama, Iamthe woman Iam today because of you. My heart is sad you are gone, but happy you are now at peace and reunited with Nan and Pop. Imiss you every day, so much it hurts. Iamsograteful for all the wonderful memories we have made over the years, they are what will keep me going and keep me smiling on the days when the pain gets too much. Ilove you to the moon and back times infinity.

Mel xo

Mum, You will always be remembered not only for your incredible love for us but also for the special bond you built with your grandchildren. We will never forget your beautiful smile and unwavering support in all that we did. You were always there, cheering us on, never missing an opportunity to celebrate and be together.

Your strength and courage throughout your battles is an inspiration to us all.

Love to Greg, Melissa, Peta, Daniel, Will, Jack, Noah, Chris and Deb.

My dear Nan, The most selfless person. Iamgrateful for my 28 years of knowing you. Ihave so many fond memories stretching back as far as Ican remember, the majority of them being on the farm with both you and Pop my most treasured. Your calm and caring nature was like no other, you were so driven by your own family, that was all that mattered to you. Any sporting events growing up anywhere anytime, you would be there. You made it clear to me that there is nothing more important in life than your own family. You are now at peace, Ibet your Poppy is waiting at the gate with Macey sitting on his knee. Rest peacefully my dear Nan.

Love Jakob and Abbyxo

Mum,

How blessed we were to have such acaring and nurturing Mum who always put family first and loved being included in all we did. She had a wonderful attitude and we are grateful that she loved us so much.

David and Ruth.

Nan.

Your kindness was your greatest asset, you loved us all to the bottom of your heart. We will all miss you and you will forever be in our memories!

Love James, Rachael, Aston and Nash. Nana Pia. Akind and caring strongwilled Nan who loved us so dearly. She will be welcomed lovingly into her Saviour's arms.

Loved always.

READ (van der Heide), Pietje (Pia). 18/12/1935 -23/4/2023

Passed away peacefully with family by her side at CGH Sale.

Eldest daughter of Marinus and Dirkje van der Heide, sister of Bertus (all dec.), sister-in-law to Barbara; Colin and Jean (both dec), and Graeme and Margaret. Devoted wife of Bruce (dec.), adored Mother of Lisa (Abrahall), David and Kevin.

Loved Mother-in-law of Geoff, Ruth and Tanya.

Motoring Deal

MAY, Robert William. 18/09/1964 -21/04/2023. Also known as Pip, Rob, Dad and Pop. He was akind and loving man that will sadly be missed by many. He was ahard-working person known by so many people. He had aheart of gold, he even took on a few extra kids that looked up to him like asecond dad and his kids looked up to him. He did enjoy keeping his kids on their toes until the minute he passed. He loved driving trucks. He has been taken from us way too soon. We love you and will miss you. You will always be in our hearts and looking down as amuch loved father to Sylena, Sheree, Georgah, Torrie and Archy. Much loved Pop to Saxin and Sebastion. Much love wife/best friend Rachel.

Much loved son of Edwin and Dulcie (both dec.). Loved sister Karen and partner Steve and their family.

Loving,compassionate, kind, and gentle, you have left behind aheartbroken but very proud family. If at times our days are dark and memories are too hard to handle, Iknow there will always be many photos of you smiling to brighten our day. Rest in peace now. God bless, we love you Mum.

Your proud daughter Peta, son-in-law Daniel, and adoring grandchildren Will, Jack, and Noah.

MELDRUM (nee Jensen), Sharon Therese. 07/11/1952 -22/04/2023

Asovery much loved sister of Christine, sisterin-law of Brian and Aunty of Tanya. You have been there for me for 69 years Shaz, and now you are no longer here Iamlost. Ishall rememberwhat we always said during the hard times, one foot in front of the other and we will find our way. Ishall continue to walk this way knowing we will walk together again one day. Rest in peace my darling big sister.

Doting Nana Pia to Kaitlyn and Ryan, Jakob and Abby; Jamesand Rachael, Bonnie and Samuel; Montana, Macey Parker (dec.) and Olivia. Proud Great Nan to Aston, Mackenzie and Nash. In God's care.

Our beautiful Mum, What aloving Mum, Nan and Great Nan. The life lessons Ilearnt along the way were all about love, familyand accepting everyone for who they are. We are truly blessed to have you at the helm of our family tree

You always had so much love to give us and loved family events with us all together. Now reunited with Dad and Macey Parker we wish you eternal love.

Love you Mum. Lisa &Geoff xo xo.

Nana Pia, So many fond memories with such aloving Nana. Special times spent in the kitchen at Falls Lane, watching the tennis and cricket together and later in life hearing about your wins on the bowling green. Always so generous with your time and loved nothing more than your family dropping in for acuppa. Mackenzie loved her cuddles with you. Give Pop and Mace acuddle from us. Will miss you so much Nan and love you always. Kaitlyn, Ryan and Mackenzie Clancy.

Bonnie and Samuel Minter Mum.

You loved your family more than anything in the world. Ahardworker who supported Dad for so many years on the farm, whilst supporting all her children to be their best. Your grandchildren and great grandchildren were your crowning achievement that brightened your every day. We will miss you Mum, rest easy now that you're reunited with Dad and Macey Parker

Always in our memories, Forever in our hearts. Kevin, Tanya and Olivia.

Dear Nan.

You are the light in the dark, when we are down you are the spark. Our family is built with your courage and support. We will always keep you in our thoughts. It hurts to know you're gone, but whenthe sun goesdown I'll think ofyou at dawn. Devotion and generosity are qualities youembrace every day. Nan you're one ofthe bestand now Isay, Imiss you. Montana.

Iwill hold with me forever your sparkling blue eyes, beautiful smile, gentle nature, loving heart and your unwavering strength.

WHITE (nee Macreadie), Viola May "Vi"

6/7/1933 -18/4/2023

Passed away peacefully at Sale Gardens aged 89 years.

Loved and adored wife of Alfred White (dec.).

Mother of Heather, Lorraine, Rosemary, Joylene and Edward.

Mother-in-law to Alan, Ron, Alan, Stephen, and Michelle.

Grandmother to Kain, Joanne, Kelly, Nicholas, Caitlin, Jordan, and Rebecca.

Great Grandmother to Tayla, Larni, Coby, Sienna, Judd, Hunter, and Ace.

Always loved and remembered

Thanks for the lifetime of memories, for your love and kindness, help and encouragement. Will be sadly missed.

Heather and Alan

All the things you said and done to show how much you cared. Although we seldom mentioned it, we knew it was true. Thanks for the lifetime of memories. For your love and kindness. Help and encouragement.

Rest in Peace

Love you Lorraine, Ron, Joanne and Brad, Kelly and Hayden, Coby, Sienna, Judd, Hunter, and Ace.

Mum and Nanna

After having you there for such along and fulfilled life you are now at peace and rest with Dad.

Thank you for your support and love over those years. There will be avoid in our lives that can't be filled. You will be so sadly missed.

Rosemary, Alan, Kain, Nic, Tayla, Bailey, Larni, and James.

Mum /Nan

"Many memories, always in our thoughts we will never forget you".

Rest in peace

Love Joy, Steve, and Jordan

Mum/Nanna Thank you for the love, care and support you gave us all each and every day.

While you may no longer be with us, our memories and your wicked sense of humour will stay with us always.

Ed, Michelle, Nick, Cait, and Bec

service for Mr Gary Edward Brosche WAS HELD on FRIDAY (April 21, 2023).

READ (van der Heide). The funeral of Mrs Pietje (Pia) Read is appointed to leave St. Andrew's Uniting Church, Pearson St., Maffra after aservice commencing at 3pm on FRIDAY (April 28, 2023) for the Maffra Monumental Lawn Cemetery. Please visit our website for the livestream of Pia's service.

JONES.

The funeral service for Mr Trevor Lindsay Jones will be held at Delbridge Funeral Chapel, Marley Street Sale at 11am

TOMORROW (Wednesday April 26, 2023) followed by burial at the Sale Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the The Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Please see our website for livestream details.

MAY.

For funeral arrangements for Mr Robert William May of Maffra please visit our website or contact:-

WHITE (nee Macreadie). The funeral service for Mrs Viola May "Vi" White will be held at St. Columba's Uniting Church, Cnr Raymond and Macalister Sts., Sale at 1pm on THURSDAY (April 27, 2023) followed by burial at the Sale Lawn Cemetery.

Please see our website for livestream details

GAMBLE, Cheryl Ann. 15/12/53 -25/04/18

MELDRUM (nee Jensen). Requiem mass for the repose of the soul of Mrs Sharon Therese Meldrum will be offered at St. Mary's Catholic Church cnr. Church and McMillan Streets, Maffra on FRIDAY (April 28, 2023) commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of Mass the cortege will leave the Church for the Maffra Lawn Cemetery.

Please visit our website for the livestream of Sharon's service.

Ican't believe it's been five years since Iheld your hand and heard your laugh. There's so much I want to tell you, and wish you were here to give me advice. Continue to guide us and watch over your grandsons. You are far too loved to ever be forgotten.

Love Nurse Ratchet Mel and boys xx

LEEDS (Hubbard), Marcia. 2/10/49 -25/4/20

Three years have passed and you are greatly missed. Rest well old friend. Robert and Ruby.

WIGHT, Rachelle. 23/03/1972 -27/04/2015 R.I.P. Les, Dryw and Taylah.

Funeral Directors

Barry &Annette Lett

A personal message in the Gippsland TImes can say so much.

67 Macarthur Street, Sale Phone 5143 1232

For friendly advice on how to place a message, contact The Classified Department

5143 9333

BROSCHE. Afuneral

Honour your loved ones and share their story

When you lose someone close to you, it can be hard to put your thoughts and feelings into words.

Lions impress in Wonthaggi

LiamDurkin

GOD Moe did well.

The Lions madethe hour-long trip to Wonthaggi, for what was seenastheir first big test of the Gippsland League season.

The result from that test was an A+.

On the scoreboard, that was victory to the tune of 28 points, 12.10 (82) to 8.6 (54).

Thosefamiliarwith the film Old School might recall the scene where WillFerrell's character instantlybecomes adebatingexpert, to which the opposition can only come back with "we have no response".

That was Wonthaggi in the second half.

The Power genuinely looked clueless at times after the main break, as Moe piled on nine goals to two.

Coming into the Round 3match,Wonthaggi had defeated 2022 grand finalists Sale, and got within three points of handing reigning premier Leongatha their first loss since 2021.

By contrast,while Moe did comeinwitha2-0 record, those wins hadbeen against ayoung Morwell and aseverely depleted Warragul.

From the outset, the contest had the makings of one that would give pundits an insightasto whether or not Moe would be agenuine challenger this season.

Taking down Wonthaggi on their home deck is

Maroons

MATE, Traralgon are good.

rarely easy. Even more so when they have someone who played in the AFL last year.

With the Wonthaggi ground (finally minus the astro cricket pitch) looking immaculate in readiness for the VFL game they are hosting this Sunday between Casey and Box Hill, the opening term saw the home side take advantage.

Things appeared to be going to script for the pre-match favourite. ThePowermadethe Lions payfor some poor ball use, and kicked four goals to none in the opening stanza.

Moe tidied up their disposal in the second, and were able to add three goals to two as both teams traded momentum. Although the Lions trailed by 14 points at the main break, they had registered 10 scoring shots to nine, which was enough to suggest there was avery good game in the making.

Moe flickedthe switchatthe startofthe third term, and immediately set about clawing their way in front.

Theywereabletodothis in small ways thanks to the aerial dominance of Nick Prowse, who kicked threegoalsin10minutes.Hewas justclunking everything.

Agrandstand finishwas on the cards as just one pointseparated combatants at the final change.

For some unknown reason, the non-entrance end of the ground had been the scoring endall day, despite there being hardly any wind to speak of.

In the reserves match, all 12 of the games goals were kicked at that end, while in the senior match

up until three quarter time, Moe had kicked three goalsinsecond term after being held goalless, and Wonthaggihad registered five of their sevengoals kickingtothe eastern end.

If there was ascoring end, Moe made full use of it in the last -kicking five goalstoone.

Harry Pepper gave the visitors an ideal start, getting goal-sideand outmuscling JarrydBlair in the goal square to slam through the Lions first within the first two minutes.

Anothergrab andconversion from Prowse at the five minute mark took the lead to 13 points, before an incredible snap off not even one step out of congestion from Lions skipper Jacob Wood extended the lead two minutes later.

Withoutoverexaggerating, it was like the Harlem Globetrotters had come to Wonthaggi at the start of the last.

Despite the dream start, Moe had to stay calm, as their flurry of goals meant therewas still plenty of time left for Wonthaggi to mount acomeback.

But it's hard to score when you can't get the ball inside 50.

Wonthaggi did not have an inside 50 in the last quarter until the 14 minute mark.

Best afield BenDaniher, who has had the ball on astringfor Moe so far this season, set up the sealing goal, hitting Pepperonthe chest with a beautiful left foot pass.

Pepper's follow up took the margin to 26 points, followed up ashort time later by Wood, who dobbed

aset shot from 25 metres out to signal the start of avery enjoyable bus trip home.

Second year Moe coach Declan Keilty rated it the best win of his coaching career to date.

"It was pretty proud, always tough going up to Wonthaggi and playingthem, they're aquality side so to come home with awin was very pleasing, really big positive," he said.

Keilty paid credit to his troops, particularly for their work after quarter time.

"Allowing them to kick four goals to our three points in the first quarter calls for abit of motivation in the way we are doing things, but Iwasn't overly panickedatwherewewere.Ifeltlikewe had afair bit of the ball and we had opportunities we just didn't capitalise," he said.

"The message during the game wasn't so much 'changethe way we go about it', it was just continue to do what we've been doing and capitalise on the opportunities we have and make sure we control the ball when we get it back, and Ithink the guys did that really well in the second half.

"Our midfielders and high half forwards, they did areally great job.

"You can sometimes have that perceived pressure about you when you think you're about to get tackled and you're not, the defence was able to set up alot betterinthat third quarter so it put the ball carrier in two minds about their decision making, the pressure was right up and we managed to get the game back on our terms."

make light work of rivals Morwell

The Maroons took down traditional rival Morwell in brutalfashiononSaturday night, winning 14.18 (102) to 5.4 (34).

Whilematches are often tightwhenever these twoteams meet, that was far from the case under the Terry Hunter Oval lights.

Every player wearing maroon appeared to know when it was their turn to be part of the narrative, and executed their role accordingly.

Traragon opened the game with three goals to none, exerting theirdominance with astrong display.

Traralgon's ability to make the ground look big was evident, and playerswere heard to say "keep looking sideways" during the quartertimeaddress.

Whatever the Maroons did during preseason showed in the second term, as their work rate at both ends of the ground led to them adding 4.5 (29) to 1.0 (6).

The Maroons werealsogetting it done at ground level. Their cleanliness below their knees stood out, as did their desperation. Astrongtacklefrom LucasTripodi in the middle of the ground giving the home side another chance to stream forward.

The Tigers' brains appeared scrambled by the 18 minutemark. The visitors defence had their work cut out, and if body language by way of throwing armsupwas anyindication,they were saying "What do we do?"

Best on ground Jackson McMahon kicked along range goal on the eve of halftime, lining up for an eternity to receive ahandball at the top of the 50, taking the score to 7.12 (54) to 1.2 (8).

Morwell was able to add acouple of goals, while astrongmarkfrom Dan Musil in defence during the third showed goodcharactersittingundera high ball.

However, it was to be arare highlight for the Tigers, their frustrations clearly evident after giving away afree kick for late contact.

As playersmadetheirway to the huddle, the scoreboard now showed Traralgon leading 11.12 (78) to 3.4 (22).

The Maroons piled on more pain the final term, at timestreatingMorwellaslittle more than witches hats.

Had it not been for areturn of 3.6 (24), the margin could have easily crept toward triple figures.

Morwell full backRyan Hearn waskept busy, and battledmanfully, while at the other end, Brandon McDonald made the most of limited opportunities.

Others to put in decent efforts for the Tigerswere Brandon Mcauliffe, Cody Macdonald,Sam Walsh, and playing-coach Boyd Bailey.

Traralgon coach Jake Best, still sidelined with injury,was understandably pleasedwith his team's efforts.

Keeping the coaching hat firmly on, he didn't go as far to say it was a'complete performance', but said he was "happy with the win."

"I thoughtour pressure was really good,lot of contributors,guysplayingtheir role, overallpretty happy," he said.

"I feel like we are getting better and better, this group is another year older, we've got some really good young kids that are getting better every week."

Traralgon captain and usual centre half forward Dylan Loprese played at centre half back, getting the job on Braendler.

Bestsaidthe move wasn't permanent, but it showcased the sides versatility and further emphasised role clarity, an element that really shone through watching this game.

"He played down back lastweek, it is just aweek by weekthingjust on match-ups, just allows us

to go alittle bit smaller up forward," Best said of the skipper.

"Brett Eddy down the other end played agood game,and what he does is bring others into the game. We're not actually worried about him kicking big bags either, it's just about him playing arole

and bringing the ball to ground so our smalls can go to work."

Eddy kicked three goals and was listedinthe best players, as was KadeRuyters who did likewise. Hourigan, Schneider and Hugh Dunbar also put in strong performances.

Liam Durkin

Jackson McMahon hadthe ball on astring in the night game against Morwell

Photo: Liam Durkin

Wy Yung “too good”

Paul Nichols

WHILEthere was only three scheduled games in East Gippsland Football this weekend, there was eager anticipation to the results, with the top four trying to get out in front of the pack.

The game of the round,Boisdale Briagolong versus Wy Yung, which was aclose and hard fought game for four quarters.

Boisdale Briagolong went into the game confident they could bounce back from the agonising loss to Lucknow the week before, knowing they were able to account for Wy Yung at thecabbage patch last year when their list wasn’t as strong.

Forced to make eight changes from last week, the Bombers depth was always going to be tested.

Tackle pressure and accurate kicking from the home side in the first quarter had them go into the break up by three points.

Continuing the momentum from the first quarter, Boisdale-Briagolongcontinued to be hard at the ball, putting pressure on and not missing shots on goal.

Going into the main break up 7.0 (42) to 6.5 (41), the Bombers were rewardedfor their style of play in the first half and confident they could continue for the rest of the game.

Wy Yung however had different plans, and outscored the Bombers 6.5 (41) to 4.3 (27) and taking the game by 13 points.

In the end, Wy Yung had 22 scoring shots

to 14, this being the main difference.

While accurate kicking is pivotal to winning games, so to is getting forward entries, and the Bombers seemedtolack these, being beaten by scoring shots in each quarter.

CoachSam Bedggood was positive about the result, heaping praise on his side.

“Was agreat effort by the boys, they had areally good crack. Wy Yung were just too good in the end,” he said.

Bedggood was happy with the tackle pressureinthe first half,but admitted it was unfortunate that it droppedaway in the third and fourth quarters.

Best for the Bombers was Harry Swarski, Andrew Quirk, Caleb Calwyn,Tim Dessent, PaddyMack andCal Henning.

AFTER announcing they’re back last week with an 86-point win over Paynesville, Stratford travelled beachside to tackle Lakes Entrance, unsure of what would face them when they arrived.

Both sides had strong wins and disappointing losses in their first two games of the season.

Stratford came out of the gates, trying to put the game away in the first half.

With a38-point lead after the first quarter, the Swans were well and trulyontop, extending that lead to 68 points at half time.

The Swans played team football in the second half, linking up by handball inside 50 to allow players in better position to convert opportunities. Stratfordcarriedonwiththe job, and posted

their strongest win of the season, to the tune of 147 points 25.19 (169) to 3.4 (22).

Roydon Fulton seems to be enjoying and making the most of his new role as akey defender, in the absence of Jesse Bedggood, keeping key Seagull Sam Nickless to just the one goal following his four goal performance the week before.

Lachy Channing was again amongthe best, beingaccused of bringing his ownfootball as he dominated possession and kicked four goals. Dylan O’Shannasy continued on from the weekbefore, kicking seven goals and extendinghis lead for the league goal kicking by three.

Overall though, ateam effort got the job done for the Swans, with everyone stepping up and playing their role.

IN thetraditional ANZAC game, Paynesville and Lucknow battled it out. Paynesville started well, getting the ball inside 50 but beingunabletocapitaliseon their opportunities,being0.4 (4) at one stage. Paynesville had the leadatthe end of the first quarter, but it was only amatter of time until the Magpies swoopedinand took control.

The Gulls’ inaccurate shots on goal cost them in the end, as the Magpies won by 43 points, 14.12 (96) to 6.17 (53).

LINDENOW and Orbost Snowy Rovers will play the rest of Round 3asa split round this weekend, crossing over with another Round 4fixture

Lesson learnt for GippyUnited

FOOTBALL NETBALL EAST GIPPSLAND

NarelleFoster

GIPPSLANDUnitedFootball Club was in action last weekend.

In the Under 12s pre-NPL Round 1clash, the team faced strong opposition in their first match of the season, coming up against avery polished Bentleigh outfit.

The first half was all out attack from the Bentleighmidfielders andforwards, which had the Gippsland defence of OliverLee, Liam Arbon, Beckham Bremner and Lewis Manzo working hard to repel many forward entries, and keeper Quinn Asmussen making numerous strong saves to hold the opposition at bay.

Striker DinoGrbic lifted moraleinthe first half with astunning goal which beat the keeper, helping to bring belief and arenewed focus to the boys.

After regrouping at halftime with some instructionfrom coach Tony Manzo, the boys settledinthe second half and were able to negate themidfielddominance of Bentleigh

through the good work Sidney Box, Hudson Reiss, Lucas O’Dowd and Blake Breheny, holding possession for longerand starting to create runs and linking together to keep their shape.

This eventuallyresulted in asecond goal to Grbic, who converted from aHudson Reiss corner, giving him abrace and once again lifting the teams spirits.

Isaac Sharp and Harry Lee came into the game with their run and attack bringing support to the hard working midfield and defence.

RomeoVitalestepped into the roleofkeeper in the second half and waskept busy making repeatedsaves anddefendingwell against qualityopponents.

Afar more confident and energetic second half meantthe boys finishedwith positivity, and took awayagreat learningexperience against high quality opposition despite losing 10-2.

IN the Under13s pre-NPL match,the team travelled to play against Dandenong City for Round 1oftheir season.

This was the first real hit-out for the boys, who have only been together for six months as asquad

The first half was alively affair, with Dandenong City scoring early, which was then followed by another. But the Gippsland boys fought back and soon scored through Clay Diston-McCann.

An unfortunate deflection in front of goal saw City go into halftime 3-1 up.

Startingthe second half, the boysappeared to be abit flat footed and second to the ball, which saw Cityscore another threequick goals.

Diston-McCann stepped up to score a second half hat-trick (bringing his tally to four goals for the day), inspiring the team to push hard to find the winners. Unfortunately time beat them, with the final score being Dandenong City 6- GUFC 4.

The team has abye in Round 2and will be back on the park in Round 3versus Glen Eira.

The NPL Under 14’s, Under 15’s and Under 18’s commence their home and away season on Sunday (April 30).

ClayDiston-McCann in actionfor Gippsland FC

Photo:Contributed

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

SENIORS

Sale win Battle of the Birds

Liam Durkin

THEY are always close games between Sale andMaffra.

So closeinfact, the head-to-head leading into last Saturdaywas Sale 143, Maffra 142 with three draws.

The Magpies nowhaveatwo-game lead on the tally board, after fighting off adetermined Eagles outfit to win 12.11 (83) to 10.9 (69).

The most recent Battle of the Birds clash at Sale Oval had everything spectators have come to expect whenever the old rivals meet.

Maffra got away to ablistering start, putting up 6.1 (37) in the first quarter.

The Eagles feasted on turnovers, as Jett Killoran, Daniel Bedggood and Brayden Monk got to work early.

Sale tided up their ball use after the first break, with playing-coach Jack Johnstone changing afew things structurally, sending himself forward to try and generate some scoreboard pressure.

While the Magpies efficiency may have improved, their overall situation did not, as by halftime they trailedby21points -the exact same deficit that greeted them at quarter time.

Come the third term however, it was a different story.

Sale vice captain Jack McLaren came to life, and the Magpies began to slowly but surely chew away at the margin.

The home side did as their opponents did in the first, kicking six goals while keeping the Eagles to just one major for the second

RESERVES

ERoscoe HLittleC BrownT AndersonMMaaka WBrent

Morwell: ALovison TShankland CMillar AVanDerVelden MVan Vliet TSpagnolo

BAIRNSDALE 4.3 8.10 13.13 15.14 (104)

DROUIN 4.2 5.2 6.3 9.5 (59)

GOALS: Bairnsdale: TBrown 7CMann3 AWatt2 LDunkley JPhillips SO’Kelly.Drouin: C

Harrison 2JHuston KGregg AWanigavitharana

quarter in arow.

Once Sale gotontop in clearances, they were able to take ascendency, and by three quarter time, the Magpies led by 12 points.

Across the ground there wassome good one-on-ones takingplace. Jake Hutchins had avery good battle with Bedggood,while Will Leslie had the job on key Maffra forward John Butcher.

With the game on the line and 20 minutes for either side to register their first win for the season, the last quarteropened with the Eagles coming at Sale hard.

The visitors were atad unlucky, hitting the post twice just as they looked to be mounting acomeback.

In the end however, the experience and perhapsatouch more class from Sale enabled the Magpiestorecord ahard-fought 14-point victory.

Hudson Holmes was among the best players for Sale playingagainst his old club, while McLaren was aclear best on ground due to his work around and post stoppage.

Daine McGuiness continued to impress, and hasput together astrong year anda bit of senior football in the black and white.

Cooper Whitehill wasalsoprominent, while unassuming small forward Tom Campbell kicked three goals.

Shannen Lange and Nathan Pollard went hammer and tong, with the latter assigned the tagging job on the Magpie ace. Given bothplayers were namedsecond-best on for their respective sides, anil-all draw wasperhaps an accurate summary of who got the better of who.

Parrots rally for 31 wins straight

NOT abad way to celebrate your comeback. Leongatha forward Jack Ginnane had a day out on Saturday, kicking 11 goals against Warragul.

Thelong sleeve-wearing Parrotentered the record books, equalling the record for the most goalskicked for aLeongatha player against the Gulls.

Ginnane nowshares the recordwith former Footscrayand Melbourne playerAdrian Campbell,(whoalsokicked 11 in 1999),and NickNagel (2011).

Ginnane,who missed last season's premiership through suspension, saw the Parrots to a near 100-pointvictoryatWestern Park, 21.13 (139) to 6.6(42).

That is now 31 wins in arow for Leongatha.

Such amargindemonstrated the sheer scoringpowerofthe visitors, as the game was actuallyclose at quartertime

Warragul took it right up to the Parrots in a high scoring opening stanza,and were only two points behind whenthe first break was called. But, likeRichmond between 2018-19, it was as if Leongatha said "Okay, we'll start trying now", and in thesecondterm, they added 5.3 (33)tonoscore.

The Parrots went on their way after the main

break, and againkept the Gulls scoreless, this timeinthe final term.

Leongatha stretched the margin witheight goals in the last quarter, on their way to a rampagingwin

Ginnane was best for the victors, and received good support from Mitch Bentvelzen, Aaron Heppell, Luke Bowman, Aaron Turton andGuy Dickson Better players for Warragul were Sam Whibley, JamesDavidson, Liam Serong, Nick Mulqueen andBradHefford. ANOTHER closelossfor Drouin.

The Hawks went down in ahigh-scoring clash with Bairnsdale, 16.12 (108) to 14.17 (101).

Making the long trip to Bairnsdale City Oval, the home sidecaught Drouinnapping in the first quarter, as they piled on four goals to one.

It wasmoreofthe same in the second, with theRedlegs scoringsix goalstofourtotakea 29-point lead into the sheds.

While the margin was more of the same at three quartertime, the ease at which both teamswere scoringmeant it was stillanyone's game.

The Hawkskickedfive goals in the third to Bairnsdale's four,and very nearly pinched victory with fourgoals to twointhe last

Had it not been for poor conversion, Drouin may well have been singing the club song all

theway home. TheHawks ended up kicking two lessgoalsthanthe Redlegsand only lost by sevenpoints

Hugo Birks continued his strong start to the season,kicking six goalsfor Drouin.Hewas backed up by Aaron Powell,JarrodMarshall, Noah Glen, Will Papleyand Shay Harvey Frustratingly for the Hawks, they are sitting 0-3,withall three lossesbysingle digits. It really can be acruel game

Nonetheless, the margins prove Drouin won't be an oppositiontobetaken lightly this season. By contrast, Bairnsdale is yet to lose agame, althoughthere has been adraw among their first threematches, and theyhave won their other two games by single figures. It reallycan be agamewhere the margin for errorissosmall.

The Redlegs sit third on the ladder, but have atough three weekstocometakingonMoe, Leongatha and Wonthaggi.

Kieran Vickery wasbest in theDrouin win, followed by Logan Austin,Oscar Pike,Byron Vickery,Link Mckenna and TomHudson. Keyplayer WillMitchellmissed this match duetoconcussionprotocol,and is expectedto be available this weekend.

Traralgon destroys Morwell and Moe rolls Wonthaggi on their home deckpage 32

Both Carr boys, Ed and Alex, were good for Maffra, as was Monk, Killoran and Kieran Jones.

Eagles midfielder Danny Butcher took home the Carter-Hill medal.

Liam Durkin

JaydenAllisonwraps up Kade Renooyina tackle.

Sale’s ShannenLange and Maffra’s Nathan Pollardduring the Battle of the Birds clash. Pollardtagged Lange in one of the many subplots on the day.

Photos: LotjeMcDonald

Wildcats tame Tigers with ease

NORTH GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

TomHayes

THE big boys wereout to play in Round 3ofthe North Gippsland Football-Netball League, with the smallest winning margin being48pointsthroughoutthe fivefixtures. If they did tipping in local football, most people would have left Round 3with agood record, as the predicted became reality.

THE enticing battle between Yarram and Traralgon Tyers UnitedatYarram Recreation Reserve met expectations as the game of the round,despite an eight-goal margin at full-time Out of all five fixtures, thiswas the closest, proving how much of ablow-outthe rest of the round was.

TTU consistently kept the scoreboard ticking, while haltingYarram from harmingthe buffer too much.

So much so, that TTU's 13-point lead at quarter time doubledto26pointsathalftime.

The second half, but mainly in the final term, was all TTU, leaving no chancefor Yarram to come back and steal the four points.

A28-point difference at three quarter time grewto48bythe final siren,asthe Bombers only let the Demons score asinglebehind in the last quarter, on their way to winning 14.10 (94) to 7.4 (46).

Caleb Michie kicked four goals for the Bombers, while Nicholas Fox,Michael Jacobsen and Hayden Willaton were the other multiple goal scorers.

For Yarram, Josh Swift top scored with three majors, while Boadie Mottonkicked two.

In the best for TTU was Fox, Jake Cashmore, Oscar Aliotta,Jacob Williams, Jacobsen and Ricky Cochrane.

For Yarram, Jake McFarland, Motton, LiamBentley,ShemRendell, Chris Bruns and Dylan Garnham were in thebest.

TTU remain one of two sides that are yet to lose agame, alongside Churchill, who defeated Heyfieldontheir home deck of Gordon Street Reserve.

THE Cougarsstarted confidently, registering a34-point lead at the first break, before a free-flowingsecond quarter saw 10 goals between the two sides.

Churchill led by 59 at halftime, Chris Wangman- who kicked 12 last week, was on track for adozen again -had six at the main break.

Both sides continued to findthe bigsticks, however the visitors did so just as many times to grow their lead out to 71 pointsbythe final siren, winning22.11 (143) to 10.12(72).

Wangman finishedwith eightgoals, and evenplayed astint on Collingwood premiership playerand currentHeyfield coach, Leigh Brown.

VeteranBrendan Holt finished with three goals, as did Ben Kearns, Ryan Lowrie and captain Chris Williams.

Tyson Birss kicked threefor the home side, while youngster Miller Eastham kicked a couple.

For the Cougars, Williams, Wangman, Kearns, Tyson Leys, Rory Peter and Chris Kyriacou compiled the best.

Within the home side's best was Max Van Der Zwart, LiamHeasley, James Conway, Robert McMillan, Eastham and Birss.

Churchill stayatthe top of the ladder, with TTU close behind, also with a3-0 record.

Meanwhile in the Cougars Reserves, two milestones were celebratedasScott Whittle played his 150th game and Luke Brereton played his 100th.

The Churchill Reserves also got up in their game to go 3-0 and celebrate the milestones, recording the same amount of wins as they did in 2022.

THEJets got on the winners list for the first time in 2023, after an unexpected start to the season for the reigning premier, defeating Rosedale at Rosedale Recreation Reserve.

Despite afirst quarter lapse against Rosedale, Yallourn Yallourn North found their way back into the game to avoid a0-3 record.

Owen Budge playedhis 200th senior game for the Jets, while Tom Lawrey madehis senior debut for the club.

Rosedale came out of the blocks fast with seven first quarter goals, taking a22-point lead at quarter time.

But, aseven goal second term by the Jets saw them hit the front by acouple of goals at the main break, finally getting the game on their terms for the first time this season.

A7.3 (45) to 4.0 (24) third quarter gave the visitors an added advantage, as their 12-point lead grew to 33, before amassive final quarter put an end to things.

The Jetskickedninegoals to two in the final quarter to walk away 78-point winners, 26.15 (171) to 15.3 (93).

Kicking93points in a78-point loss weirdly feels like adecent effort.

Campbell MacInnes, Kyle Jennings, Rowan Duguid and Blake Julin made the bestfor the winners, alongsideKennanHughes and AnthonyYoung, who scored four goalseach.

In atough start to the season for the Blues, Rosedale's best on the day were Bailey Reid, Hayden Bell, Spencer Fox, James Moulton, Riley Atlee and Caleb Barnett.

The high-scoring encounter was ashock to the league, despite the margin at the end of the game.

Not everyone wants to see aflogging each week, but can you complain if you see more than 40 goals in amatch?

In the Reserves, Daniel Potts reached his 200th game at YYN, capping it off with a goal in a115-point win.

SALE CITY handed Cowwarr their firstloss for the season, when they dismantled the Saints by 76 points at Stephenson Park.

The Cowwarr of the first round was

nowhere to be seen in Round 3, as they simply couldn't keep up with the Bulldogs.

A29-point first quarter lead soon grew to 37 by the main break, as Sale City seeminglyrested to restartand continue their demolition job.

In thethird term, Sale City kicked 5.5 (35) to 2.2 (14) to hold a58-pointleadatthe final change,justout of reach for Cowwarr.

The home side scored four goals to two in the final term to score their secondwin of the season by 76 points, 18.16 (124) to 7.6 (48).

Sale Citycaptain MitchellEvanskicked five goals and was one of the best, alongside Blake Safstrom, JaxsynWhitehill,Joel Safstrom, Ben Brett and Harry Kaandorp.

Cowwarrwelcomedanew face to the club, with rich connections to the AFL.

Brayden Riolimadehis debut for the Saints,and is the brother of three-time premiership winning Tiger, Daniel Rioli.

Braydenwas amember of Essendon's Next Generation Academy, and represented Northern Territoryatthe Under 16 AFL Championships.

Brayden kicked two goals and made the best for Cowwarr,along with Jake Brown, Brett Grieve, Nick Wozniak and Kurt Henderson.

CAR horns at the Woodside Recreation Reserve might be running low on juice, as the Wildcats provided one of thebiggest margins you might see this season against Gormandale.

A50tosix-point first quarter gave the home side abenchmark to continue to grow on, and that they did, as in the secondquarter, their 44-point lead turned into a124-point one.

The third quarter was tame compared to the other three quarters, as Woodside only added five goalstotheir total, conceding one in the process.

A149-point advantage leadinginto the final term was enough comfort to give the Wildcats someaddedincentive to reach the 200-point mark,which they achieved in the final term, surpassing 200 points and winning by 203 points, 34.13 (217) to 2.2 (14)

Former Collingwoodrookie Daniel Farmer booted 12 goals and earned himself best-ongroundhonours,while 11 other players found the big sticks.

Within the Woodside best was Farmer, Joh Fythe, Josh Morgan, Hamish McLeod, Michael O'Sullivan and Jai Williams.

While for Gormandale, Isaac Copland and Jai Foulkes scored their only goals, and within their best was Tristan Salerno, Copland, Nicholas Millington, Jarred Canning, Williams Flanagan and Kodie Owen.

Woodside move to third on the ladder, yet have the highest percentage in the league, understandably, with 261.97 per cent.

Glengarry had the bye.

Woodside’s Michael O’Sullivankickedfivegoals for theWildcats as they defeated Gormandale by 203 points. Photo: Contributed

Sirengate, Gippsland League style

Liam Durkin

CONFUSION greeted playersand spectators at Terry Hunter Oval in Traralgon on Saturday night.

An amazingsituationaroseonthe eve of halftime, when umpires had to be notified by arunner that the quarter had ended due to the siren malfunctioning.

With no blaring noise ringingout across the ground, Traralgon and Morwell players simply had to make their way in following the umpires whistle -much like at training. Traralgon was able to find areplacement siren for the rest of the game, although this one gave out amuchdifferent sound.

The original siren emitted the stock standard noise heard at AFL games, while thereplacement let out ahighpitched ring. Speaking to theumpires, an old rule stated each clubneeded to have amanual bellon hand to use in case the siren went down. The situation may have evoked memories of the infamous ‘Sirengate’ controversy in the AFL during season 2006.

In that game between St Kilda and Fremantle in Launceston, umpires did not hear the final siren when the Dockers were one point in front upon the completion of the match.

Playcontinued for around 10 seconds, during whichtimethe Saintsscoredabehind the draw the game.

The AFL later ruled the win to Fremantle. For the full Traralgon versus Morwell match report, turn to Page 28

ANZACRound in the AFL

By TomHayes

FOOTY fans were treated to afive-day festival of football for the ANZAC Day long weekend.

The round extendedwell into the following week that the result of the ANZAC Day game wasn’t known until after print -sorry Scott Pendlebury fans!

In other results, the Brisbane Lions dispatched the GWS Giants comfortably at Manuka Oval, in the country’s capital.

The Lions’ first half set up the rest of their game, allowing them to take alead as big as 40 points in the third term.

Yarram’sJosh Dunkley(pictured right) was consistent as ever, posting competitive numbers of 21 disposals, six marks, four tackles and four clearances, along with agoal assist.

Dunkley was forced to tag Giant Josh Kelly in the second half- whowas causinga headache, butDunkley ultimatelycouldn’t stop him from accumulating, as Kelly finished with 41 touches and 618 metres gained.

Small hiccups draggedthe margin back,but the damage was already done, the Lions walking

away as 21-point winners, 16.12 (108) to 13.9 (87).

Sale’s Charlie Comben took to the field for North Melbourne Kangaroos, as they travelled to Heritage Bank Stadium.

On the other side were acouple of LatrobeValley faces, in Ben Ainsworthand Bailey Humphrey, appointed to spoil the party that was Todd Goldstein’s 300th game.

Goldstein became the sixth Kangaroo to reach 300 club games,behindWayne Schimmelbusch (306), Adam Simpson (306), Glenn Archer (311), Drew Petrie (316) and AFL games record holder, Brent Harvey (432).

It’s fair to say Goldstein could comfortablyclimb to second on that list, potentially by season's end.

Back to Comben, he had 10 touches, kicking two behinds,within aforward line that wasn’t clicking on the day.

The Suns kept on finding ways to halt the Roos, keeping them goallessinthe thirdtermreally hurt them, as they went 41 pointsdown at the final change.

The final term was much more competitive, but the Roos were outdone again, just, as the Suns claimed a43-point win, 14.13 (97) to 7.12 (54).

Sale dominate doubles tournament

The winners won fivematcheswithasix-net hoop advantage fromthe Coombers, who won four games with an 11-hoop advantage. In Section 2, Wilma Freemanand Betty Clissold were one of four teams to tie on four wins, but were relegated to third on countback of net hoops.

Sale’s Mary Derley, who teamed with David Barrett from Lakes Entrance, was also afour-game winner but finished fourth.

Sale Croquet Club will be hosting its own golfcroquet doubles tournament in June.

Section Three doubles winnersElaine Giesbers and JeanPhillips, with runners-up Nelly andColin Coomber

Photo: Contributed

SALE Croquet Club members dominated Section 3 at the Bairnsdale golf-croquetdoubles tournament at the weekend (April 22-23).

Jean Phillips and Elaine Giesbers won the section against another Sale pair,Nelly and Colin Coomber.

Netball Scoreboard Yarram off the mark in 2023

ANZAC Round proved to be an entertaining one across Gippsland.

Playerstook to the courts, with anumberteams returning strong results.

IN theGippsland League, Sale enjoyed anice win over Maffra,48-35.

Sale’s Dee Dee Lambert, Rachel Ronaldson and Teagan Harrison had aday out, while Maffra’s best were Sarah Edey, Chloe Felsbourg and Chelsea Allman Morwell continues to dominate AGrade.

TheRound 3match played under lights saw the Tigers easily defeat Valley rivals, Traralgon 53-24. BronwynTebb, Montanna Styles and Sophie Lecchino were among the best for Traralgon. Moe was too strong for WonthaggiPower, coming home with aconvincing win. The Lions scored 65 to the Power’s 30.

Among Moe’s best were Olivia Barnett, Charlize

Bird and Georgia Moody, while Power’skey performances came from Chelsea Bowman, Jess Blair, and Mia Plenkovich.

Leongatha also enjoyed victory, with an 11-point win over Warragul, 39-27.

Parrot’s stars Hannah Flanders, Laura Higgins and Lauren Redpath were some of the key players in the win, with Ella Reesand Renee Cookamong Warragul’s best.

Bairnsdale wasnomatch forDrouin, losing 61-35.

Bairnsdale’s best were Sally Deller, Olivia Betts andCharli Young, while Drouin’s EllaHenderson, Karina Proctor and Kelly Mills were recognised as influential in the win.

NORTHGIPPSLAND had agreat round of netball.

In Round3,reigning premier Woodside asserted their strength.

The Wildcats hadaday out, winning all six grades.

Woodside’s AGrade would have been especially happy, after defeating Gormandale by awhopping 60 points, the most significant margin of the year so far.

Sale City camehome with astrongperformance over Cowwarr; the Bulldogs winning 57-33.

The win solidifies Sale City as the top dog of

the competitionwith 12 premiership points and astaggering percentage of 258.67

Churchill is finding that winning form again, coming off a10-point winafter the hike to Heyfield, defeating the Roos, 44-34.

Rosedalequickly cared for Yallourn Yallourn

North, defeatingthe Jets on their home deck 65-29.

Yarram managed their first win of season 2023 in anail-biting two-point game, the Dee’s winning 40 to TTU’s 38.

Glengarry had the bye.

EAST GIPPSLAND also saw Round 3action.

Stratford continued their strong 2023 performance, defeating Lakes Entrance 57-29.

Lucknow defeated Paynesville43to20atA.J Freeman Reserve, while Wy Yung’s AGrade was too good for Boisdale-Briagolong, defeating the Bombers by eight goals.

Round3resultsare not quite complete, as Lindenow and Orbost Snowy Rovers will go head to head this Saturday.

As it stands, the ladder for Round 3has seen Stratfordsurge to the top on percentage, with Wy Yung are not far behind and Lindenow in third place yet to play.

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GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

AGRADE:Moe 65 dWonthaggi 30, Leongatha 38 dWarragul 27,Drouin 61 dBairnsdale 35, Sale 48 dMaffra 35, Morwell 53 dTraralgon 24.

BGRADE:Moe 50 dWonthaggi 38, Leongatha 61 dWarragul38, Maffra42dSale 36, Traralgon47d Morwell 32, Bairnsdale bye, Drouin bye.

CGRADE:Moe 35 dWonthaggi 20, Leongatha 52 dWarragul 25, Maffra 38 dSale 14,Drouin 32 d Bairnsdale 27,Morwell 28 dTraralgon 27

17 AND UNDER:Wonthaggi 58 dMoe 7, Leongatha 64 dWarragul 14,Sale 29 dMaffra 17,Bairnsdale 33 dDrouin 30, Traralgon 47 dMorwell 22.

15 AND UNDER:Moe 32 dWonthaggi 24, Leongatha 38 dWarragul 18,Sale 41 dMaffra 30, Bairnsdale64d Drouin11, Traralgon 72 d Morwell 11 13 ANDUNDER: Moe 48 dWonthaggi4,Leongatha 38 dWarragul 11,Sale 37 dMaffra 19,Bairnsdale 43 dDrouin 16,Traralgon 52 dMorwell 2.

NORTH GIPPSLAND

AGRADE:Churchill 44 dHeyfield 34, Rosedale 65 dYYN 39, Yarram 40 dTTU 38, Woodside 82 dGormandale 22, Sale City 57 dCowwarr 33, Glengarry bye.

BGRADE:Heyfield 43 dChurchill 29, YYN 45 d Rosedale 38, TTU41dYarram 34, Woodside d 58, Gormandale 44, Sale City 59 dCowwarr 41

CGRADE:Churchill 36 dHeyfield 21,Rosedale 33 dYYN 32, Yarram 39 dTTU 34, Woodside 29 d Gormandale 27,SaleCity 58 dCowwarr 12

DGRADE:Churchill 28 dHeyfield 21,Rosedale 36 dYYN 27,TTU 63 dYarram 10,Woodside 39 d

Gormandale 22, Sale City 57 dCowwarr 23.

17 ANDUNDER:Heyfield 44 dChurchill 7, Rosedale 48 dYYN 6, TTU55d Yarram 6, Woodside 33 d

Gormandale 8, Sale City 86 dCowwarr 1.

15 ANDUNDER:Heyfield 43 dChurchill 8, Rosedale 61 dYYN 6, TTU73d Yarram 2, Woodside 40 d Gormandale 2, Sale City 95 dCowwarr 4.

EAST GIPPSLAND

AGRADE:Stratford 57 dLakes Entrance29, Lucknow 43 dPaynesville 20, Wy Yung 45 d Boisdale-Briagolong 37,Lindennow vs Orbost SnowyRovers-tobeplayed this weekend.

BGRADE:Stratford40dLakesEntrance29, Paynesville 24 dLucknow 21,Boisdale-Briagolong 33 dWyYung 24.

CGRADE:Stratford 44 dLakes Entrance 17, Lucknow29dPaynesville14, Wy Yung 24 d Boisdale-Briagolong 21

DGRADE:Stratford 10 dLakes Entrance0,Lucknow 37 dPaynesville 16,Boisdale-Briagolong 33 d Wy Yung 28.

17 ANDUNDER:Stratford34dLakes Entrance 19, Lucknow 60 dPaynescille 7, Boisdale-Briagolong 41 dWyYung 32.

15 ANDUNDER:Lakes Entrance 20 dStratford8, Lucknow 32 dPaynescille 6, Boisdale-Briagolong 23 dWyYung 18

Zaida Glibanovic

Photo: Zoe Askew

RUSSELL

SONYA

ROUND 6

Friday, April 21

Fremantlevs. Western Bulldogs (OS)(N)

Saturday,April 22

Port Adelaide vs.WestCoastEagles (AO)

GWSGIANTSvs. Brisbane Lions (MO)(T)

GeelongCats vs.SydneySwans(GMHBA)(N)

Sunday, April 23

Hawthornvs. Adelaide Crows (UTAS)

Carlton vs St Kilda (MRVL)

Gold CoastSUNS vs.North Melbourne (MS) (T)

Monday, April 24

Melbourne vs.Richmond (MCG)

Tuesday, April 25

Collingwood vs.Essendon

Sale hosts eight-cardmeeting on Good 4

TomHayes

RACING in Gippsland has taken the back seat in recent weeks in comparison to other sports, but it was back in action over the weekend.

Sale Turf Club hostedaneight-racemeet on acloudy Sunday afternoon for the Sale Sunday Racing.

The track was graded aGood 4for the entire meet, as locals found some success throughout the day.

The Ladbrokes YardCommentsMaiden Plate over 1728 metres was aclosefour-waybattle at the front.

Classic Story for Sale’s Heather Stephensled from the jump as the rest of the pack made formation behind.

La Gioia, for Jason Warren, found pace around the outside at the 400m mark and challenged Classic Story for the lead.

It was asprint to the line but La Gioia pinched the lead and by the time she hit the line she was almost two lengths clear.

Race 2’s Sale Signtorque Maiden Plate (1105m)

was another tightly contested field, with five horses finishing within two lengths.

Da Plane Da Plane for Wendy Kelly led the pack around the track, up until the 400m mark, when they swungwide, it was anyone’s to win fromthere.

Spirited Wings for Cliff Brown got afavoured turn and had clean air to run into down the straight.

He snuck into the lead and boltedclear with 100m to go, claiming the first win of his two-race career.

Cop That for Sale’s Kerry Farrugia finished the raceinninth, nearlyseven lengths behind the lead

The Race 3EastGippslandAsset Protection Maiden Plate (1411m) was anail-biter going down to the wire.

Transpose for Sale’s Rebecca Kelly and Reactive settled in the lead early, leaving the rest to find their feet before things got fast.

But the eventualtop three came from nowherein the end to claim aremarkablefinish. Darra Linen for PaulKramercame from four wide, and Super Valentine darted from the rail to find the front.

NightEruption for Sale’s Paul Worthington was alateshout but wasn’t close enough, coming third.

SuperValentineheld the lead rightuptothe

line, but not quite as the fast-finishing Darra Linen pipped them at the final moment.

If you thought it couldn’t get more entertaining after Race 3, wait until you hear what Race 4’s Ladbrokes CommunityMaiden Plate(1411m) had in store.

Much like Race 3, the eventual front four came from miles back to ensure atight finish.

Dizzy Barmaid and Art Critic took an early lead, but little did they know they would be romped in the final 400m.

Favourite Hazel Baby was camping behind the leaders, jumping at them around the bend, taking the lead momentarily.

Whencoming towardthe line, both BlackSamurai and Artie’s Dynamitefor John Moloney continued to getcloser, eventually making atight contest.

After aphoto finish, it was foundthat Artie’s Dynamite managed to getanose ahead rightat the last minute to claim his first win.

Hazel Baby was anosebehind,whileBlack Samurai finished ahead behind him.

The Race 5KwikTip Bins Handicap BM58 (1411m) provided another close finish, thistime

the front five horses were within two lengths of the lead.

Heavy Duty and Satin Image for Stephens took the pack’slead -byquite the margin -and held firm, until the pack opened and overran them to the line.

Race6’s Victory Treadmills Handicap BM58 (1728m)was led for the wholerace and won by First Immortal for Mark and Levi Kavanagh.

The Race 7Growmaster Sale Handicap BM58 (2219m)turned outtobeatwo-horseGippslander shootout, withthe pair five lengths clearofthe rest of the pack when they crossed the line.

DashRiprock,a $31runner,led them around the track and down toward the 400m mark, before falling into the clutches of the favourites.

As they reached the 200m mark, Bell’sBighouse for Bairnsdale’s Jackson Pallot and Ima Dozer for Moe’s Christine Sexton burst to the front and battled it out for the win.

It would eventually be Bell’s Bighouse that crossed the line first.

Race 8’s Ladbroke it! Handicap BM64 (1105m) was won by Berry Bubbly for Robbie Griffiths and Mathew de Kock, after leading for the entire race.

Bragging B Br r ra a ag g gg g giinng g rights r ri i ig g gh h ht t ts

(and a ( (a a annd much muuc c ch h needed n ne e ee e ed d de e ed d win) w wiinn) )

Photo: Lotje McDonald