Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 13 August 2025

The Churchill Town Centre Plan is now open for public comment Latrobe City Council wants to hear from the community on how to best shape Churchill’s town centre over the next 15 years.

Carbon much more than inanimate rod Long termvision

By PHILIP HOPKINS

AFULLY networked carbon capture and storage industry along Australia's east coast,with Gippslandakey contributor, could boost economic activity by about $66 billion and support an additional 15,250 jobs over the coming decades, according to anew study praised by the federalgovernment.

The report,'The Economic Potential for CCS in Australia's Eastern States' written by Ernst &Young for Low Emis sions Techn ology Au stra lia (LETA), waslaunched by the federal Minister for Resources, Madeleine King, who described the study as "essential".

The report highlights the environmental and economic potentia lo f carbon capture and storage for regions such as the Latrobe Valley and greater Gippsland. The Latrobe Valley, like Gladstone and the Hunter Valley, is a large industrial hub.

"These industrial hubs host significant emi ssions source points ,i nc luding Safeguard Mechanism-covered facilities

which will be required to reduce their emissions over time," the LETA report says. Under the Safeguard Mechanism, the nation's top 200 industrial companiesmust cut their greenhouse gas emissions annually.

However, the report warns that without co-ordinated efforts, there is a big risk Australia may not develop the carbon sequestration capacity to reach net zero emissions.

"Thiscould pose additionalchallenges to heavy industryinmeeting their Sa fe guard Mechanism ob ligatio ns, increasing the costs of the net zero transition, and requiring deeper emissions cuts in other sectors."

Ms Kingsaidthe findingsfrom the report underscore that CCS is essential not just for achieving Australia’s emissions targets, "but for safeguarding the future of our industrial base, our energy security, and our economy".

"As this report makes clear, CCS can playacritical roleindecarbonising hardto-abate industries across Australia like steel, cement and chemical production.

- PAGE 6

CCS will also play arole in reducing the emission intensity of gas at the point source of production."

CCS in volves capturin gc arbon dioxide (CO2) released by industrial processes,compressing it, transporting it to an injectionsitevia pipeline, and sequestering it deep underground for safe, long-term storage in suitable geological formations. The Latrobe Valley-based CarbonNet is planning to build apipeline from Loy Yang that takes captured CO2 from the Valley to the Gippsland Basin, just off Golden Beach, for underground storage.

The LETA report says the Melbournebased CO2CRC (Cooperative Research Centrefor Greenhouse GasTechnologies) is Australia's leading researchorganisation dedicated to carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS). Active in Gippsland, akey CO2CRC initiative is the OtwayInternationalTest Centre in western Victoria, "one of the world's foremost field research sites for CO2 storage".

The Otway Centre, which began in

2006,todate has safely injected and monitoredmore than 100,000 tonnes of CO2 within geological formations at the site, the reportsays, "demonstrating the feasibility and long-term security of underground carbon storage".

"The centre has played acrucial role in developing internationallyrecognised bestpractices for monitoringand verification, whichare essentialfor ensuring publicand regulatory confidencein CCUS," the report says.

"Currently, the Otways Centre is conducting Phase 3ofits research program, which focuses on developing cost-effective and highly accurate monitoring technologies. This phase aims to enhance real-timetracking of CO2 movement in the subsurface, reducing the long-term costsassociated with carbon storage projects. By improving efficiency and safety, the centre is helping to make large-scale CCUS deploymentmore commercially viable."

Continued -Page2

First Nation’s garden trulyinspires

ANEW First Nations garden is being established at Liddiard Road Primary School, Traralgon.

Led by respected Elder Aunty Vera Harrold and Marrung Lead Rikki-Lee MacRae, the project was delivered by First Nation’s contractor Pearce Cameron, creating aculturally safe and welcoming space where students can connect to Country, learn about nativeplants, and explore FirstNations culture and storytelling.

The garden is being broughttolife with the supportofschoolstaff and students, as well as

AGL Loy Yangemployeesand Foundation Civil and Mining, who provided equipment and skilled operators to clear and preparethe site ahead of installation.

AGLLoy Yang provided more than $20,000 in funding, along with hands-on help from employees and local partners.

Volunteers also came together for aworking bee and tree planting day to help shape the space.

“This garden is more than alandscape project -it’s aspace forlearning, reflecting, and understanding,"

Deal with cults or facts?

COMMENT

BY JOHN GWYTHER

IT seemslogic escapes someofthe Express' letter writers.

Patricia Correa ('No subsidiesequals no investors', LVE Opinion, 06/08), for one, makes the nonsensical claim that "I cannot supply evidence of the reliability of coal stationsuntil they are shut down, also, Mr Gwyther cannot claim otherwise."

Well,Ican (and do) claim otherwise because thereliability of our coal fired power stations has been assessed by the likes of IEEFA, Environment Victoria and the Climate Council Isuggest she reads that evidence before next picking up her pen.

Nicholas Tam ('Coal takes the cake', 06/08) for another, claims "that on alevel playing fieldinafreemarketwithout government interference,coal fired power wouldbeby far the cheapest and most reliable source of electricity generation".

One would thinkthe USA would be closer to this nirvana he seeks but, eventhere, new-build coal fired power stations are more expensive than all renewable energy sources, according to Lazard.

Mind you, there is some uncertainty in the coal costs because so few new-build coal projects are happeningthere or in other Western democracies.

There are reasons for this and Isuggest Mr Tam doessome researchtounderstand why this is so. His listofcountries (none of them exemplarsofthe "level playing field" he espouses) account for 96 per cent of global coal plant development, according to Global Energy Monitor.

Brian Mawhinney ('Turn the page', 06/08) appears to argue that we need to export coal to earn income and provide jobs.

Yes, we do but at what cost?

Has he not heard of global warming, greenhouse gas emissions and the existential threat to mankind from this?

Ifail to understand how anyone can ignore this, no matter how muchthey pine for the simpler life that we had 50 to 60 years ago.

Mr Mawhinney accuses me of belonging to a cult.Ifso, it is an enormous global one, made up of people who can look at data, analyse information and make logical decisions supported by science, logic, and economics. I'm not theone drinkingthe Kool-aid here.Our energy future and the future for our children and grandchildren is acriticalissue, requiring some critical thinking,abilitytolearn and also face up to reality.

Ihave done hundreds of hours of research overrecent years, applying my degreesin meteorology and systems analysis, modelling scenarios and costs, going to lectures, conferences and webinars, plus discussing these issueswithengineers,businesspeople and experts in the field to educate myself.

If the above proponents have any analysis and science that supports their case and proves me wrong, put it on the table.

John Gwyther is aCoongulla resident. Letters,opinion -Pagess 32-33

AGL Loy Yang General Manager, Christo van Niekerk said.

"AGL Loy Yang is proud to contribute to something that willbenefitgenerations of students while honouring the knowledge and care of local First Nations people.”

Featuring nativebush foods, learning spaces and yarning circles, the garden will support both the school curriculum and everyday cultural learning and play. It also reflects Liddiard Rd’s strong relationships withthe local Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander community.

Aunty Vera Harrold said the spaceisabout growing connection.

“This garden bringsculture into theeveryday. It givesour young onesa chance to see, hear and feel the stories and the plants of Country.”

The First Nations garden project is part of AGL Loy Yang’songoingcommitmenttosupporting the community they work, live and operate in.

Buddy chairsinstalled by Traralgon Men's Shed -Page5

Jobs created through carbon

From Page 1

THE report says the success of the Otway Centre provides astrong foundation for developing CCUS projects in eastern Australia, where industrial emissions from sectors such as energy, manufacturing and cement production remain high.

"By leveraging insights fromOtway, policymakers and industry stakeholders can make informed decisions about the feasibilityand risks associated withlarge-scale CCUS deployment in key economic regions," the report says.

It says demand for carbon sequestration is likely to be huge in small, heavily industrialised countries with little geologicalstorage such as Japan and Korea, which rely on fossil fuels for energyand have net zero targets by 2050.

"Australia hasa potential to providecarbon captureand storage to these countries however, severalregulatoryand commercial preconditions are critical to capture this growth opportunity, includingprovidingassurance of anycarbon stored in Australia," it says.

Ms Kingsaidthe report was an important contribution to increase the understanding of the potential of CCS as the industry takes steps to scale up.

"CCS will not be asilverbullet.But it has the very great potential to work alongside other efforts to reduce emissions," she said.

"The task of reaching net zero is asignificant challenge, but it simply mustbemet, all tools must be applied. Whatisalso clear is that Australia has the right elements to be an important player in global CCS valuechains. We have the right geology, the right infrastructure, and the right skills to be at the forefront of commercial development of CCS."

Ms King said the government's approach was to ensure the right policy and regulatory settings are in place for industry to make investment decisions on their projects.

"It’s atwofold approach.Firstly, robust regulations

will allow for the effective, safe and environmentally responsible storage of CO2.And secondly,astable and predictable business environmentwill encourage long-term investment," she said.

"My department is currently undertaking a review of our regulatory settings to provide better regulatory and administrative certainty for offshore CCS projects. The government is also cooperating with our regional partners on carbon management solutions."

The government last year granted 10 new greenhouse gas storage assessment permits as part of the 2023 OffshoreGreenhouse Gas Storage Acreage Release.

"Australiaalsohas two of the world’s largest operational, commercial scale CCS projects," she said -the SANTOSMoomba CCS project, onshore in South Australia, and the GorgonCCS project at BarrowIsland,offshore of Western Australia, which safely stored 11 million tonnes of CO2 that would otherwise have been emitted into our atmosphere.

"It is fashionable in some circles to denigrate existing CCS projects. But to do this without observing what has been achieved is to write off how CCUS can contribute to decarbonisation, and to ignore the warningofthe IEA (International Energy Agency) that reaching net zero will be virtually impossible without CCUS," she said.

"But we know that new sites need to be identified to drive private investment. To that end, we’re investing $3.4billionover 35 years in the Resourcing Australia’s Prosperity program. This will allow Geoscience Australia to comprehensively map our natural resources and renewable energy potential, including the geological suitability for CCS. By 2028, RAP will deliver anational carbon dioxide storage resource atlas, with work already underway to guide its development."

Team effort: LiddiardRoad PrimarySchool, Traralgon partnered with elders and AGLLoy Yang to build aFirst Nation’s garden at the school.

Down to business: LiddiardRoad PrimarySchool, Traralgon students, plantingseeds in the garden. Photographs supplied

Date set for pre-sentence hearing

By LIAM DURKIN

ERIN Patterson was back in court last Friday.

TheLeongathamushroom murdererappeared viavideo link in Melbourne’s Supreme Court for amention to decide the date for her plea hearing.

Thepleahearing will not be held in Morwell due to maintenance works not expected to be completed in time.

Ms Patterson was last month found guilty of murdering three of her in-laws and attempting to murder another via abeef wellington lunch laced with death cap mushrooms in 2023.

The marathon 10-week trial thrust Morwell under the global spotlight.

The accused has maintained her innocence, saying the deaths were atragic accident.

Fresh evidence however has been released after the Supreme Court of Victoria lifted asuppression order last Friday.

The policebrief of evidence contained allegations from Ms Patterson’sestranged husband, Simon Patterson that his wifetried to poison him multiple times in asimilar way to the fateful lunch which he did not attend.

Mr Patterson allegesErin tried to position him with toxic penne pasta, chicken curry and a vegetable wrap between 2021 and 2022.

This was not included in evidence during thetrial, given it could have been classed as prejudicial, and

therefore, not offering Ms Patterson afairtrial

Video of Ms Patterson’s record of interview at Wonthaggi Police Station justdays after the Leongatha lunch has also been also released.

In it, she lies about owning afood dehydrator or ever dehydratingfood -somethingshe conceded to the jury during her trial.

During the interview, police ask her about amanualfor aSunbeam Food Lab electronic dehydrator seized during asearch through her Gibson Street, Leongatha house.

Ms Patterson did not tell police she disposed of the dehydrator at the Koonwarra tip, which was later found to have death cap mushroom residue.

The prosecution maintained she did this to coverup the murders, while Ms Pattersonargued she actedinastate of panic.

Ms Pattersonisbeing held in the maximum security prison,Dame Phyllis Frost Centre in Melbourne’s west.

The Herald Sun has reported Ms Patterson has had repeated clashes with fellow inmates, and spent time in solitary confinement.

The plea hearing will see victim impact statements read out before sentencing.

The court heard last Friday there could be two days’ worth of victim impact statements.

JusticeChristopher Beale adjourned the matter to Monday, August 25/Tuesday, August 26 in Melbourne.

Off-field issues rife across Gippy footy

By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

AN all-in brawl eruptedduring Round 16 of the North Gippsland Football-Netball League match between Yarram and Rosedale.

ADemons player receivedafive-week suspension for their part in the melee.

During the third quarter of the seniors match at Yarram Recreation Reserve, where the favoured Blues were beginning to break away from their home opponent, tensions rose to the point where alarge number of players on the ground broke out into afight.

Vision of the ‘punch-on’ quickly circulated online, with two separate pieces of footage, one from close to the Yarram social roomsnear the boundary where abulk of the brawl was taking place, and anotheracrossfromthe farwingalong the fence.

The fight halted the game’s proceedings for well overaminute, however no reports or send-offswere given by the umpires on the day.

The punished Yarram player was seen arriving after the fight had already started, and allegedly inflicted heavy blows to, what has been revealed to be a19-year-old Rosedale player, said to be left with facial injuries upon the attack.

As such, the Yarram player received five weeks and an additional two-week suspended sentence, disqualifying him for the remainder of the season.

The Demons had abye at the weekend regardless, and will face Churchill at Gaskin Park this Saturday in the final roundofthe home-and-away season. Yarram has been out of the finals race for anumberofweeks.

NGFNL President, Martha Truinprovided a statement on the incident.

“A melee broke out at the Yarram vRosedale game during the seniors match,” she said.

“No reports were handed out at the time.

“An Incident Referral Report was lodged by Rosedale FNC,tothe controlling body, the NGFNL

“This wasthen passedtothe MRO, who sent the case to (the) tribunal, resulting in one player charged and receiving five weeks suspension.”

Rosedale won the match 18.19 (117) to 5.9 (39), and are preparing for afinals berth.

 ELSEWHERE,all matches in the Omeo District FNL between Bruthen and Swan Reach were abandoned at the weekend, due to concerns surrounding community safety.

"Based on external advice, the ODFNL in conjunction with the Swan Reach Football-Netball Club (SRFNC)and the Bruthen Football-Netball Club (BFNC) wish to advise that the scheduled netball and football matches to be playedatBruthen Recreation Reserve this Saturday, August 9, have been cancelled," Bruthen FNC posted last Thursday.

"It has been decided that issues which have been occurring in the community have the potential to impact these matches."

The ODFNL moves into finals this weekend.

The decision had the potential to deny some clubs the four pointsneeded to qualify.The ODFNL, having taken input from clubs, made the decision lastThursday nighttosplitthe points between Bruthen and Swan Reach in all grades.

Morelocal football-netball -Pages 21-28

Process: Thereare stillsteps to take before mushroom murderer,Erin Patterson is sentenced. File

Teenager missing

SHAE-LEIGH Francis has not been heard fromsince Monday, August4,after leaving her Tyagarah Beach, New South Wales location, heading north to go camping. She contacted her mother, Moe resident Amanda, when she was near Noosa in Queensland.

Amandaisworried for her daughter's wellbeing and has found it difficult to remain in correspondence with New South Wales police given she is interstate.

If youhave any information on ShaeLeigh's whereabouts, makeareporttoyour localpolice station, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or complete an anonymous online report at crimestoppersvic.com.au

been missingsince August 4.

Worrisome: Shae-Leigh Francis has

Photograph supplied

Pile on: Uglysceneserupted in the match bet ween Yarram and Rosedale

Photosupplied

photograph

Benches for buddies in local schools

ANUMBER of primary schoolsare loving their new Buddy Seats, whichTraralgon Men’s Shed volunteers constructed and delivered over the last fewmonths.

The Buddy Seat Project involves preparing and dressing raw timber, cutting timber and sanding the parts,assembly and painting in avariety of brightcolours, and thendeliveringthe Buddy Seats to primary schools across Latrobe Valley.

The project’s success was due to three parts:

 The grant funding covering the cost of materials, from Latrobe City Council’s SIAG Community Connections Program;

 The volunteer’s contribution of their time and labour, and;

 Traralgon Men’s Shed extensive range of tools and equipment.

TraralgonMen's Shed Secretary, Lyn Matthews saidthe guys delivering the BuddySeatstothe schools loved the expressions on the faces of the children and school’s staff.

Frankand Sam just love being able to deliver the Buddy Seats, and seeing handwritten thank you letters from children, photos of the seats being used and emails expressing how wonderful the Buddy Seats are in the schoolyards.

Yinnar Primary School showed theirappreciation, saying:

“We are delighted to share that theBuddy Seat has been ahighly positive addition to our schoolyard."

"It is now in regular use and has quickly become avaluedspace where students can connect and support oneanother. Thank you (TraralgonMen's Shed)sincerely for your generosity in donating this seat. It not only enhances the physical space but also enrichesour school’s culture of connection and belonging.”

Glengarry Primary School added:

“Everyone loves the Buddy Seats, thank you so much!"

"We are in the process of cementing them in our garden next to some artwork. They look amazing! Thank yousomuch, they will be enjoyed for many years."

The volunteers of Traralgon Men’s Shed engagein hands on activities anddevelop asenseofmeaning and valuearound the processofcompleting projects such as the Buddy Seats.

Drop in at Traralgon Men’s Shed, located 5Howitt Street, Traralgon and see what is happening at the shed.

The shed is open Monday to Thursdays from 8am to around 1.30pm.

Trio: LiddiardRoad Primar ySchool, Traralgon students Guilliane,Fareehaand Evie unveil the school’snew buddyseat.

Community: Lumen Christi Primar ySchool, Churchill school captains Billy,Charlotte,Audrey and Har per alongside Traralgon Men’s Shed volunteers. Photographs supplied

Connection: Yinnar Primar ySchoolstudent, Maya welcomesall to tr yout the school’snew buddy seat.

Cosy: Yinnar Primar ySchoolstudents Bonnie, Maya andMikinlee areall smiles on the buddy seat

Addition: StockdaleRoad Primar ySchool student, IndeewithBuddy Chairs constructed by Traralgon Men’s Shed.

Arminarm: Yinnar Primar ySchool students, Judd, Hudsonand Eli get comfy on the buddy seat.

(Some of) the best in thebusiness

SMALL businesses are the lifeblood of Gippsland, playing akey role in building the region, according to Telstra Eastern Victoria Regional General Manager, Jenny Gray.

Ms Graywas addressing the Latrobe Health Services Gippsland Business Awards finalists’ breakfast in Traralgon.

“We don’t celebrate thesesuccessstories enough,” Ms Gray told the gathering “The fact you (finalists) have been recognised by the Gippsland Business

Supporting those suffering cancer

TRARALGON and surrounding residents affected by cancer can plan for life after treatment at afreeCancerWellness Program.

Information for people who have been affected by cancer, as well as their loved ones,will be available at asessiontomorrow (Thursday, August 14) at Latrobe Regional Health, Traralgon.

The Cancer CouncilVictoriaprogram is run by local health professionals to assist those affected by cancer in makingthe change to life after treatment and finding a‘new normal’.

Topics covered include:

 Adjusting to physical and emotional changes after cancer treatment;

 Healthy eating and nutrition;

 Strategies for managing fatigue and other challenges, and;

 Connecting to support services in the community.

An average of 607 peopleare diagnosed with cancer in the Latrobe region each year.

Can cer Coun cil Victo ria’ sE duc ation and Training Lead, Tracie Julian saidthe program helped cancer survivors and their loved ones adapt to life after treatment.

“We often speak with people affected by cancer who share how challenging it is to return to their lives after their treatment end,” Ms Jullian said.

“Finding a‘newnormal’ is physically and emotionally complex,sowe’re looking forward to continuingtosupport individualsimpacted by cancer through the process.”

One recentparticipant of the program said:

“Things didn’t justfall back into place like they were before Igot sick.This program reall yhelped me dealwith cha nge si n my life at home and at work. It made me realise Iwasn’t the only one feeling abit overwhelmed.”

Another said the program made them feel like they weren’t “the only one goingthrough struggles that comeout of diagnosis and treatment”.

Participants must register to attend. To attend or to find out more, phone Belinda Hua on 03 5173 8770 or email: bhua@lrh.com.au

Awards (GBA) is atestament to your hard work and resilience, and your commitment to making adifference in your business, to customers’ lives and your teams’ lives.It’s also makingadifference in your community.

“Small businesses are an essential partofthe economy. They create jobs, support families and bring innovation and energy to every corner of the region. You’re not just building businesses you are building the region.”

GBA Committee Chair, Graeme Sennett, also congratulated the finalists.

“Your businesses are innovative, passionate, committed and want to succeed,” he added.

Ian Whitehead, Latrobe Health Services Chief Executive, Ian Whitehead also spoke, as did founder and principal of Brinnie TDesign,Joanne

Viney, who highlighted the importance of access, equity and inclusion by small business.

Winners of the awards will be announced at a gala event on Friday, August 29 at Federation University, Churchill.

As well as the prestigious Gippsland Business of the Year award, other categories being recognised in 2025 are: Accommodation and Tourism, Hospitality and Food Service, Food and Agribusiness, Retail, Tradeand TechnicalServices, New Business, Manufacturing and Construction,Business and Professional Services, Beauty and Personal Care Services,Healthcare and Wellness,Transport and Automotive Services and Microbusiness.

Viewthe list of finalists at the GBA website: www.gba.org.au

Churchill centre consultation

THE Churchill Town Centre Plan sets the vision for howthe communitywantsthe Churchill Town Centre to look and feel over the next 15 years.

Latrobe City Council is seeking input into how Churchill’s Town Centre is planned, and is asking the community to shareits experiences.Feedback received will help to shape the Churchill Town Centre Plan.

People can share theirexperiences in the Churchill Town Centrevia an online map, where they can pin locations and share photos andcomments.

People can also complete an online survey which provides details on how the community can access the centre of town, howthey feel aboutthe town centre and the reasons for their visits.

Community listening posts are planned for this month in Churchill, and acommunity engagement sessionwillbeheld onlineand in person tomorrow (August 14).

LatrobeCityCouncil Mayor, Dale Harriman said this is an important piece of work to help shape the future of Churchill Town Centre.

“Council wants to ensure that any plans for Churchill Town Centre are reflective of the aspirationsand needs of the local community,” the Mayor said.

“By providing your feedback, we can note common themes in responses and identify opportunities that should be included in the Churchill Town Centre Plan.”

After along, drawnout saga, councilapproved construction of public toilets in the town’s centre at this year’s April council meeting.

People can access the online map and survey through council’s engagement platform, Have YourSay Latrobe City: yoursay.latrobe.vic.gov au/churchill-town-centre-plan Feedback will be accepted until 5pm Friday, September 12, 2025.

Youcan still get burnt during winter

AS MANYofusseek relieffrom the bite of the winter chill, Ambulance Victoria (AV) is educating thecommunity about burn prevention and correct treatment.

AV GippslandDirector Regional andClinical Operations, Ross Salathiel said burn prevention should be at theforefront of everyone’s minds.

“When the temperature drops, we oftenreach for products to help ease the cold, whether that be warm food or drink, heaters or hot water bottles and heat packs,” he said.

“While these are all common household items, they can be dangerous if usedincorrectly or by unsupervised children.

“There are afew simple steps that can significantlyreduce the risk of burn injuries in high-risk

places such as kitchens, bathrooms, around heaters and campsites.”

Burn prevention tips:

 Always supervise children in the kitchen and keep hot items out of reach, such as the kettle or coffee mugs, and turn pot handles so they can’t be pulled down;

 Always test bath temperatures before letting your child enter;

 Remain vigilant around open flames, keep them out of reach of children and away from flammable materials, and;

 Make sure safety guards are around fireplaces and always use water to fully extinguish campfires.

All burns can be seriousand it’s important to know how to treat them properly and when to call for emergency assistance.

Treatment is the same for all burn injuries and should beginwithholding the burnt area under cool running waterfor 20 minutes. Clothing or jewellery that is not stuck to the burn should be removed. Do not apply iceorfood products, such as butter, to the burn as these can make the injury worse. For minor burns, the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) is agreat resource, available 24/7 viavideo link

For serious burns or emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).

Translated resources for non-emergency care can be found on the AV website.

and

w Long Tunnel Extended Mine Tours. 4.30pm and 5.00pm. Bookings: www.walhallaboard.org.au

w Dinner/tea at Wally Pub Bookings: 0460 516 228

Witchery Cafe Bookings 0427 092

w Walhalla Goldfields Railway Light train. 7.00pm. Bookings: www.walhallarail.org.au w Walhalla Ghost Tour. 8.30pm. Bookings: https://www.walhallaheritage. com/ghosttours w The CornerStore will also be open until 8.30pm.

Acumen: Gippsland Business Awards Chair,GraemeSennett,TelstraEasternVictoria Regional General Manager,JennyGrayand Latrobe Health Ser vices Chief Executive, IanWhitehead are getting readyfor thisyear’s business awards Photograph supplied

O’Brien getting out and about

MEMBER for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien is continuing his ongoing commitment to get out into local communities and listen to the concerns of local residents face-to-face.

Mr O’Brien recently undertook mobile electorate office meetings in Boolarra, Yinnar, Rosedale, Mirboo North, Mardan,Berrys Creek, Hallston, Korumburra, Arawata, Jeetho and Kongwak to see and hear first-hand from locals about the issues affecting their towns.

“It is acrucial part of any MP’sjob to stay connectedwithlocal communities, andthese visits allow me to meet with residents, hear their concerns and learn what issues matter most to the peopleI’ve beenelectedtorepresent,” Mr O’Brien said.

“During these meetings there were anumberof important matters raised with me including the future of the Boolarra Folk Festival, funding for local CFA brigades, the need for more local social housing, rising energycosts, road conditions, access to reliablepublic transport and concerns about proposed renewable energy projects in the region.”

While in Korumburra, Mr O’Brienwas also able to catch up with the new Liberal Member for Monash, Mary Aldred, to discuss how they can collectively work together to deliverfor Gippsland.

“Mary has hit the groundrunningasthe new

Member for Monash and I’m sure she will be just as fierce an advocatefor Gippsland in Canberra as my other federal colleague, Darren Chester MP.”

Mr O’Briensaidheremains dedicated to raisingthe issues heard on the ground directly with theAllan Labor government and advocating for practical solutions on behalf of local communities.

“I am continuing to bring my office to communities across the electorate, with upcoming meetings scheduled over the nextsix weeks in Yanakie, SandyPoint, Walkerville North, Waratah Bay, Venus Bay,Binginwarri, Mount Best, Toora, Welshpool, Foster, Port Franklin, Buffalo and Fish Creek.

“I encourage anyone from these areas or nearby to reach out and book atimetomeet if they need assistance with state government matters.”

Thoseseeking an appointment can phone Mr O’Brien’s office on 5144 1987 or email: danny. obrien@parliament.vic.gov.au to arrange ameeting or seek assistance.

Daniel Danielle: Member forGippsland South, DannyO’Brien at Berr y’sCreek Hall with local CFAmember Danielle duringthe state member’s listening post.

Photograph supplied

Shing to speak at local housing forum

MEMBER for Eastern Victoria Region and Minister for Housing, Harriet Shing will speak at ahousing forum in Churchill.

The Regional Australia Institute (RAI) is heading to Federation University, Churchill, hosting'Regions Rising',anevent bringingtogether thought leaders, policymakers, and community voices to exploreboldreforms and place-based strategies surrounding secure housing.

The RAI says housing in regional Australia is at atipping point. With the federal government's ambitious target of 1.2millionnew homes by 2030, the pressure is on to deliver solutions that work, and this forum will spotlight the urgent need for regional housingreform and showcaseinnovative approaches to ensure every Australian has access to safe,secureand appropriate housing.

"We're thrilled to welcome The Hon. Harriet Shing,Victoria's Minister for Housing, to share insights on the Big Housing Buildand how the state is respondingtothe unique challenges of regional housing," RAI said.

Ms Shing was hopefulthe forum would help generated some robust discussions, leadingto positive outcomes.

"Events like Regions Rising are about more than just ideas -they're about putting regional leadership and collaboration at the centre of Victoria's future, prosperity and opportunity," she said.

"All overAustraliaweknowthat regional communities are facingarangeofchallenges in thesupply and affordability of housing, which is why we're delivering $2.25 billion in dedicated

funding for rural and regional socialand affordable housing." she said.

"Everyone should have asafeand secure home which is why we've introduced increased rental protections and support for homebuyers with stamp duty concessions, first homebuyers grants and government top-up for the deposits people need to buy their own home.

"We're working to deliverthe homes and services regional communities need to grow and thrive."

The Morwell MP will be joinedbyformer Latrobe City Mayor, Kellie O'Callaghan as aguest speaker.

The forum will be held Friday, August 22 from 9.30am to 3.50pm.

Tickets are $150, and can be purchased via: www. regionalaustralia.org.au, and clicking the 'events and impact' tab.

Boost for regional business

THE state government'sRegionalTourism Network Industry Strengthening Program is set to upskill regional businesses.

Minister for Tourism, Sportand Major Events, Steve Dimopou los an nou nce da dd iti on al funding for the program, which supports the state's Visitor Economy Partnerships (VEPs) to deliver trainingand support for regional tourism businesses.

Under the program, VEPs will be eligible to receiveupto$100,000 each in additional funding, ensuring regionaltourism businesses continue to benefit from tailored training programsthatwillgivethem the skills to grow their business and improve visitor expericnes. Nearly 1000 Victorian tourismbusinesses have already benefitted from the program, with training and support in areas including accessibility, sustainability, revenuemanagement and artificial intelligence.

The program aims to continue growthacross the state's $40 billion visitor economy and bolster the significant role tourism and hospitality businesses play in Victoria's economy. Data from Tourism Research Australia shows that in 2024, there was 56.8millionvisitortrips to and within regional Victoria, injecting $16 billion into local economies.

role as state Housing Minister File photograph

Portfolio: Member forEastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing,willspeak at aRegional Australia Instituteevent next week,inher

Outstanding Rotary service

ROTARY Club of Morwell celebrated asignificant milestone for one of its longest-serving members, William (Bill) Charles Panther.

Billwas the managingdirector of Panthers Mensland stores across Gippsland.

His Rotary story follows in his father’s footsteps of Rotary membership in the very early years of the existence of the Rotary Club of Morwell.

Bill Panther was introduced to the Rotary ClubofMorwell by anothersignificantMorwell businessperson, Col Jephcott in 1974.Billwas inducted in June, 1974 with the Classification Men’s Clothing Retail, by President Rod Corbel.

Bill Panther was the President of the Rotary Club of Morwell in the 1984/85 Rotary Year. He was Rotarianofthe Year in 2009/10. He was designated aPaul Harris Fellow in 1999/00 and aPaul Harris Fellow (Sapphire) in 2018/19. Bill Panther wasawarded HonoraryMember for Life in 2023/24.

The Rotary ClubofMorwell recognised this significant achievement, and donated $5000 to Bill and Val Panther’s preferred charity the School of St Jude in Tanzania.

In addition, an anonymous benefactoralsoadded $5000 to the Rotarydonation to make it atotal of $10,000. Aletter received from the founder of theschool sent apersonal letter to Bill and Val thanking them for such agenerous donation.

The club celebratedthe event with a'Pizzas at Panthers'night at their home on Thursday, July 31.

The Rotary District 9815 Governor and the Latrobe Area Assistant Governor attended, and mentioned they also applauded the achievement of Bill and Val, recognising asignificant contribution to both Rotary and the community of Morwell.

Gathered: Morwell Rotary mates and Rotary officials gathered with Bill Panther(seated), to acknowledge his morethan 50 years’ service. PicturedisAndrew Panther,Valerie Panther,Paul Panther, Rotary District 9815 District Governor PeterBehm(kneeling), David Panther and (front)RotaryLatrobe Area Assistant Governor,BillDegnan. Photograph supplied

Connections through clay at ArcYinnar

DESPITE achillyand rainy Saturday, the warmth of community spirit and artistic expression filled the air at Arc Yinnar for the opening of its latest exhibition, 'Clay and Community'.

The gallery was bustling with an enthusiastic crowd who bravedthe weather to celebratethe art of ceramics and the talent of local artists.

The exhibition, showcasing adiverserange of handcrafted ceramic works,highlighted the strong connectionbetween emerging and masteredartists and their community. From functional pottery to intricate sculptural pieces, the worksondisplay demonstrate adeep appreciation for the medium of clay and the stories it can tell.

The atmosphere was atestament to the exhibition's theme. Guests mingled, sharing conversationsand laughter,asthey admired the artwork.The gallery provided awelcoming environment,complete with agenerousspread of delicious nibbles and avariety of refreshments,

which added to the festive and celebratory mood.

"We are absolutely thrilled with the turnout today. It's atestament to the power of art to bring peopletogether,even on acold, rainy day," an Arc spokesperson said.

"Clay and Community is more than just an exhibition; it's acelebration of the creativity that thrives in our region, and we are so grateful for thecommunity's support."

The Clay and Community exhibition will be on display at Arc Yinnar until August 31.

The gallery invites everyone to visit and experience the beauty and craftsmanshipofthese unique ceramic creations.

Arc Yinnar is located along the town's main street, and is open Thursday to Sundays between 12 and 4pm.

Discussion: ArcYinnar’s‘Clay and Community’exhibition proved ahit Photograph supplied

Film festival fever

By AIDAN KNIGHT

RETURNING to Village Cinemas Morwell this month is the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) regional showcase.

As the festival enters its 73rd year, the regional showcase will be rolling out its red carpet for nine towns around Victoria's rural areas to host acurated selectionoffestival films across two weekends.

Theother participating regional citiesinclude Sale,Ballarat, Bendigo, Castlemaine, Geelong, Shepparton, Rosebud.

From this Friday (August15) to 17 and August 22-24,filmgoers at Morwell will be treated to six acclaimed titles from the prestigious event, headlined by the highly anticipated documentary But AlsoJohn Clarke -afilmmourning the New Zealand-born comedian, narratedbyhis daughter Lorin, which will open the festival leg in Morwell this Friday.

Other films screening in the reginal showcase include:

 Careless -adocumentary exploring how older Australians fight to age with independence and dignity;

 Sorry, Baby -aSundance favourite backed by A24 and praised for its heartfelt humour and emotional depth;

 Spreadsheet Champions -aquirky documentary following six young Excel prodigies;

 One More Shot - a powerful drama from the international circuit, and;

 Pavements -agenre-bending music documentary about the cult indie-rock band.

MIFF’s Artistic Director, Al Cossar said this year’s regional program was about “bringing the buzz of this year’s festival essentials”beyond the metro bubble.

“MIFF Regional and MIFF Online take this year’s must-see cinema far beyond Melbourne, in afestival for all Victorians,” he said.

Supported by VicScreen and Screen Australia, MIFF Regional also includes special filmmaker Q&Asinselect locations, and for those unableto attend in person, adigital version of the festival will run Australia-wide via ACMI’s Cinema 3 streaming platform from August 15-31. Morwell audiences can find the full program and purchasetickets via the VillageCinemas website or at: miff.com.au

Societal celebrations

TRAFALGAR and DistrictHistorical Society is celebrating its 40th anniversary this month.

To mark this occasion, the society is holding an open afternoon on Friday, August 22 from 2pm to 4pm.

The public, and members past and present, are invited to help celebrate thismilestoneinthe rooms at 30 Contingent Street,Trafalgar. These rooms are at the frontofthe maternal health building in what was once the residence for the kindergartenteachers. Some of the society’s collection will be on displaytoshowcase what has been donatedand acquired over the last 40 years.

Attendeeswill have the opportunity to peruse old newspapers, photos and memorabilia from Trafalgar and the surrounding district.

For further information, phone Dianne on 0439 655 172.

The annual meeting for the Society will be heldthis Friday (August 15) in the society’s rooms from 2pm. Again, all are most welcome.

Ride on

TRAMPS (Traralgon and Morwell PedallersInc) rodeonSunday, August

3. Riders set off on acool morning to ride from Glengarry to Rosedale for lunch.The statue of Melbourne Cup winnerPatrobas in Prince St Reserve, has been renovated and looks magnificent.

The returnride, still with perfect weather,was in peacefulflat farmland with curious cows watching.

TRAMPS next ride will be from Meeniyan this Sunday (August 17) for lunch at Venus Bay.

TRAMPS welcomes new riders.

For more information, visit: www. tramps.org.au

Club contacts are Paul on 0459 823 422 or Vance (0403 662 288).

Soup and sandwich luncheon

TRA RA LGO NV ol unt eer Canc er Gro up rec ently hel di ts ann ual soup and sandwich luncheon at the Traralgon Tennis Association.

It was an amazing success, with 97 people attending and $3800 raised to assist with cancer research.

Many thankstoGregfor the supply of pizzas, Harvey Norman for the prize and to the Traralgon Tennis Association for their support.

Community Corner with Liam Durkin

The club's next fundraising activity is on August 21, with the sale of daffodils for the Cancer Councilof Victoria’s Daffodil Day.

Buncheswill be sold for $10 at Traralgon Centre Plaza from10am.

Make sure you pop down as we sold out by lunchtime last year!

If you would like to order any, phone Raelene on 0407 368 848.

Cancer Council Supporters Hotline -1300 65 63 85

Cancer Council Help Line -131 20 Quit Line -137848

Moe Social Dance Club

JOIN the fun on Monday nights at the Newborough Public Hall from 7.30pm Cost is $8.

Dances include waltz, foxtrot, cha cha, rumba and saunters.

Ballroomdancingkeeps youfit, prevents dementia and is achance to get dressed up. Show up and join the fun, you won't regret it

Spiritual centre

LATROBE Valley Spiritual Centre (2 Avondale Road, Morwell).

Join every Sunday for service from 2pm. Doors open at 1.30pm. Guestspeaker every weekwith demonstrations from an invited medium followed by acuppaand afternoon tea.

For enquiries,phone Amanda Webb on 0411 051 044.

Dance lessons

JOIN La trob eV al le yD anc e Promotions Inc each Thursday even ing at the Gir lG ui des Hall (18 Margar et St ,M orwe ll), from Thursday, September 4. Learn new skills,rehashold ones, make new friends, connect socially and have fun.

Lessons are held from 7pm. Cost is $5 per person each night.

Follow the Facebook page: Latrobe Valley Dance Promotions Inc or call Norm on 0428 543 737 or Lynda (0428 489 041) for more information. Alternatively, email: latrobevalleydancepromotioninc@gmail.com

Field naturalists

BRETT Mifsud will speakatthe next meeting of the Latrobe Valley Field Naturalists Club.

The meeting will be held Friday, Au gus t2 2a tM oe Lib rar yf rom 7.30pm. This will be followed by the club's monthly meeting and supper.

Bretthas been searching for, measuring and documenting tall and giant trees in Victoria and Tasmania for more than 35 years.

He haspublished several papers on Victoria's tallesttrees, on the tragic effect of the2009BlackSaturday Bushfires on Victoria's tallest trees, on Victoria's giant trees and in January thisyea r, an extensive paperon Tasmania's giant trees.

His talk will mostly be concerned withthe giantand talltrees that are still alive. It will also delve briefly into thepast, as wellaslooking at how best to manage the dwindling number of giant trees into afuture that looks inc reasingl yb le ak in terms of theincreasing frequencyof droughts, heatwaves and catastrophic bushfires.

The following day (Saturday, August 23) will see the club's monthly excursion from10am. This time, patrons will head to the Gunyah area, south of Boolarra.

Everyone is most welcome, both to the meeting and the excursions.

For more information, phone club secretary, Rose on 0410 237 292.

Visit:www.lvfieldnats.org to register if you wish to use Zoom to join the meeting or if you would like to come on the excursion.

Meditation

MOE Meditation Group practices meditation in the mindfulness, Qigong and Yoga traditions.

Whether you are new to meditation or wish to extend your personal practice, the group provides asafeand comfortable environment in which to develop breathing and mindful techniques.

The gro up meets at 8.30am Wednesday morningsatthe Gippsland Heritage Park (Old Gippstown) Moe.

For information, email: clem@asia. com or phone 0427 262 064.

Parkinson's support

LATROBE Valley Parkinson's Peer SupportGroup invites people to find out more about Parkinson’s symptoms, management and the assistance available to live your best lifewith Parkinson's.

Join for achatand cuppa tomorrow (Thursday, August 14) at Gippsland Rotary Centenary House (39 Valley Drive, Traralgon) from 11am to 1pm.

For mor ei nfo rmat ion abo ut Parkinson’s Peer Support, phone Fight Parkinson’s Victoria on 1800 644 189.

Chess battles

PRICE Samasiea relied on accurate defencetofinish on top at Latrobe Valley Chess Club.

Peter Bakker was in agood space in most games, but the overloading was too much in key games.

Ian Hamilton had trouble finding the correct paths for victories.

One win was followed by two losses for Steve Ahern,who then allowed Cliff Thornton to escape with adraw.

Samantaha Juers used creative skills and was rewardedwith chances in each battle.

Phone Cliff Thornton on 04513 330 458 or Ian Hamilton (0400221 649) for more details on local chess.

Orchid club

GIPPSLAND Orchid Club welcomed

Chris Pegg as guestspeaker at its July meeting.

Chris is atalentedorchid grower who pro vide da tt en dees with an entertaining and informativedemonstration on repotting large plants, which included dividing and repotting the orchid.

Tips on care, feeding and watering plants also assisted those attending the afternoon meeting.

Despite the cold and frosty nights and early mornings, the many types of orchids keep on hanging, with lots of buds on the native orchids and Cymbidiums bursting into flower.

As Gippsland Orchid Club will be holding its Winter Show this Friday (August15) from 9am until 8pm and Saturday 9am-5pm, there will be two daysofbuying plants at the sales bench and viewing some high quality plants on the show bench.

The show will onceagain be held at Mid Valley Shopping Centre. Both the showbenchesand sales bench will be situated in the west wingofthe centre.

There willalso be araffle with prizes of an orchid or avoucher.

Setting-up of the show will be from 5pm tomorrow (Thursday, August 14). All show plants must be entered on this day.

Members are welcome to arrive around4pm,where they can can have achatand coffee. Club members can assist with customer purchases and information sheets on the Friday and Saturday.

Meetings are held at the Traralgon Ang lica nH al l( 10 0G rey St, Traralgon).

NextMeeting will be Thursday, September11. Doorsopen from 1pm and the meeting will get underway at 1.30pm. Those attending are asked to bring asmall afternoon tea contribution to share.

For additional information, ring secretary Pat on 0407 741 621.

Quitethe quilters

NEXT meeting of the Latrobe Valley Quilters Inc will be held Monday, August18atthe Newborough Uniting Church Hall (Chamberlain Rd). Doors open at 10.15am and the meeting commences at 10.30am.

This is the thirdand final full day meeting of the 2025 winter season.

This meeting's special activities will seeguest speaker, JuliePsaras. She'll be talking about what you need to considerwhengetting aquiltquilted.

There will also be time to sit and sew. Don'tforget to bring your own lunch.

Bridgeresults

TRARALGON Bridge Club results: Mon day, Au gust 4: 1s tH elen McAdam and Moira Hecker (65 per cent); 2nd Don Tylee and Robin Hecker (60).

Tuesday, August 5: N/S 1st Rob Graham and Glenis Lohr(63.57); 2nd Kaye Douglas and Roshni Chand (57.14). E/W Equal 1st Peter Lonie and Carol Cheyne, Geoff Dixon and John Marsiglio (57.33); 3rd Christine Zarb and Fred Kaminski (54.58). Thursday, August 7: 1st Don Tylee and Roshni Chand (64.58); 2nd FredKaminski and Heather Henley (63.89).

If you would like to playorlearn more about bri dge, give Harla n McAdam acall on 0438 164 528.

Men's table

THE Men's Table is comingtoMoe next month.

The Men's Table is apreventative men's mentalhealth and communitybuilding initiative providinga simple, low-cost,grassroots approach. It helps men build meaningful male friendships by creating safe placestoshareand overcome the stigmaof'mendon't talk.'

The Men's Table Moe entree is scheduled for Monday, September 8atMoe Racing Club from 6.30pm. For more information, visit: https:// themenstable.org/entree-vic/

Car meet

THE Tipsy Heifer, Willow Grove is hostingacar meet on Saturday, August 23.

Come along for you chance to win afree meal voucher and photoshoot. Show starts at 12 noon. The Tipsy Heifer (pub) is located at 14 Moe-Willow Grove Road, Willow Grove.

Youcan be apartof Community Corner

IF you are acommunity groupand have any news items you need publicised, feel free to email us at news@ lvexpress.com.au

You can address correspondence to the editor, Liam Durkin.

Please write 'CommunityCorner' in the subject line and nothing else. Deadline is Friday 9am to appear in the following Wednesday issue.

Climb: Naturalist BrettMifsud in his element. Photographs supplied

Settingoff: TRAMPS preparing forthe day’sride

ONE POINTERS

1 What are female mountain goats referred to as?

2 What do you call a piece of land that’s almost but not entirely surrounded by water?

3. How many sides does a pentagon have?

4 What 1997 movie features Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones as undercover secret agents who police extraterrestrials?

TWO POINTERS

5 What’s the name of the planet with rings around it?

6 What ‘80s supermodel was Rod Stewart once married to?

7 How many syllables are in the word “Mississippi?”

8 What are baby rabbits called?

THREE POINTER

9 In what fictional Indiana town does the sci-fi series “Stranger Things” take place?

10 What is the world’s most populated city?

11 How many noses does a slug have?

12 What TV series launched Bruce Willis’ career?

FOUR POINTER

13 What is the name of the world’s hottest chili pepper?

14 Based on the popular children’s book, if you give a mouse a cookie, what is he going to ask for?

FIVE POINTER

15 The five major groups of vertebrates are? One point for each answer

How did you fare?

37: Top of the class; 30-36: Outstanding; 22-29: Well done; 15-21: Solid effort; 9-14: Room for improvement; 0-8: Hit the books

Using the 9letters in the gr id, howmany wordsoffour letters or morecan you list? The centreletter must be included and each lettermay be used onlyonce No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural wordsending in ‘s’. Solution page45

Sarah’s storyiscomingtogether in Rosedale

AREUNION of descendants of Gippsland pioneer andformer convict, Sarah Phillips will be held in Rosedale this November.

Abook about her incredible story will be launched at the reunion.

The story of Sarah Phillips/Ratcliffe/Blake/ English, is afascinating tale of one woman’s amazing life journey and the challenges she faced as one of Australia’s early female convicts.

Born in Bristol in 1802, Sarah was found guilty of stealing aone pound note in 1821.

Shespent many months jailed on the prisonhulk ‘The Woolawich’, before receiving her sentence of seven years transportation to Van Diemen’s Land.

Sarah arrived in Hobart aboard the prison ship ‘The Lord Sidmouth’, on February 2, 1823. After arough start to her new life in the colony,

Sarah was assigned to anew master who provided security and opportunity.

Sarah married fellowassigned convict, James Ratcliffe in 1824 and went onto to have six children: James Junior, WiiliamMarshall, Phoebe Elizabeth (Lattmore), RobertFelix, John,and Joseph Josiah.

After James had captured the bushranger John Chadwick in 1832, he received the sumof25pounds as areward.

The family was able to purchase additional land at ‘Muddy Plains’,Clarence where they madea good living from their farm.

James was killed in 1837 and then Sarah went on to marry Thomas Blake in 1840.

He was another convict who had beenassigned to help heronthe farm. Theywould go on to have four children: Mary-Anne (Portch), Thomas Michael Jr,

LouisaEmily (Varney) and Rose Hannah (Romaro). Sarahalsohad another child, Sarah Maria (Ward) in 1838. The father of this child is unknown.

In 1849, Sarah relocated to Tarraville with her new partner Richard English and nine of her 11 children.

One of the earliest settlers in Tarraville, Sarah and the childrenowned several properties and businesses.

Sarah would spend her last days living with her daughterMary-Anne, herpartner EncohPortch and their 15 children at their Rosedale property ‘Fernleigh’.

Sarah died on November 1, 1864 and is one of the first females to be buried at Rosedale Cemetery.  AREUNION forher descendants is to be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the ‘Old

School’ in Rosedale, Princess Highway at 1pm. Abook ‘Sarah’s Story’ -written by her five times great granddaughter Toni Blake-Callander,will be launched, and adisplay of family tree photographs can be viewed.

In the afternoon there will be atour of the Rosedale Historical Society and avisit to the Rosedale Cemetery.

In the evening, descendants are invited to gather for ameal at the ‘Rosey Pub’ (bookings are essential for this).

On Sunday, November 2, atrip to Tarraville and Port Albertwill also take place for thoseinterested. RSV Pt o: to nic alla nder@ gmail .com or Mariahhill@live.com.au

Pieces: Local historiansare afteras much information as theycan glean about SarahPhillips/Ratcliffe/Blake/ English. Photograph supplied

IF your surname is one of these, you may be adescendant of former convict and one of the earliest settlers in Tarraville,Sarah Phillips/Ratcliffe/Blake/English.

Ashe ,A rmstro ng, Ayers ,B lake, Broughton, Bowman, Brodrib, Bowden, Brown, Chandler, Carroll,Cooper, Duggan Day, Desailly, Enderby, Edwards, Forbes, Far rell, Farley, Faulkner, Forbes, Foster, Gay, Gravett, Greenaway, Hunt, Hollingsworth, Halford, Hall, Hill, Hannon, Harper, Harrap,Heur, Johnson, Juster, Kileen, Kemp, Kerr,King, Knight, Kisyma, Krekleberg, Lawless, Linton, Long, Love, Lowe, Lynnes, May, Murcutt, Malane ,M cD ou gall ,O ’Callaghan , Oxley, Palmer, Plant, Pearce, Power, Ratcl iff e, Rol f, Rowe ,R obe rts, Robertson, Robinson, Roamro, Russell, Smith, Timbs,Tregonning,Tunnecliff, Toohey, Thacknell,Theile, Varney, Viss cher ,W ar d, Waters ,W eek es, Westward, Wilson, Williams.

REUNION: Saturday, November 1

VENUIE: Rosedale 'Old School' (Princes Hwy)

TIME: 1pm

RSVP: email: tonicallander@gmail.com or Mariahhill@live.com.au

By PHIL GLOVER

THIS month's fire safety tip looks at flashover. Flashover is aphase of afire’s development that occurs when the fire activity causes the temperature within aroom to increase to the temperature where all combustible items within the room ignite simultaneously, and is usually aviolent event.

Pre 1980s,becauseofthe type of building construction, type of furnishings andthe materials furnishings and contents were made from, flashover was occurring 15 to 17 minutesafter ignition at atemperature of around 750 degrees Celsius.

Today, because of thetype of building construction, thermal insulation, and the use of plastics, polystyrenes and synthetic materials, flashover is occurring five-seven minutes after ignition at atemperature of around 1100 degrees Celsius. That change in fire development is significant when assessing your ability to survive and exit from aburning house, or your ability to assist your family to safety.

Landcare in spotlight during designated week

LANDCARE deserves improved certaintyfrom the Allan Government so it could make long term planning goals to benefit the environment into the future, The Nationals’ Gippsland MLC, Melina Bath, said last week.

Ms Bath, who is also the Shadow Minister for Public LandManagement, and speaking during Landcare Week from August 4to10, praised the thousands of volunteers and facilitators who dedicate their time and energy to restoring and enhancing the environment.

“This innovative program effectively empowers communities at the grassroots level and improves localecosystems in regionalcommunities,"she said.

“Facilitators and volunteers undertake tree

planting, weed and pest control, erosion prevention, and habitat restoration –all essential in creating healthy landscapes on public and private land.”

Ms Bath said Landcare is an impressive organisation –the programnotablyachieves a $31.5 millioneconomic return fromjust$4.5 million in investment.

“Despite its documented success, Landcare is continuing to have to lobby the state government foralongterm commitment and abudget uplift that reflects the impacts it has," she said.

“It makes no sense that Labor chooses to onlydeliver short term base-level funding to Landcare when it consistently has ahigh return on investment. Labor’s lack of long-term vision

Gippsland Water secures

GIPPSLAND Water has secured$4.78 million from the federal government’s National WaterGridFund towards the Traralgon Tyers interconnect project.

The 4.3 kilometre pipeline will helpsecure water availability for customers in Glengarry, Toongabbie, Cowwarr and Rosedale.

The townships will be connected to Traralgon’s waternetworktoenable amore reliable and efficient delivery of service.

Gippsland Water Managing Director, Sarah Cumming said the pipeline would strengthen the region’s infrastructure to helpcombatclimate change, extreme weatherevents andagrowing population.

“We’re taking tangible steps to strengthen our infrastructure now to guarantee the water supply network is resilient to the changing climate and ensure service continuity well into the future,” Ms Cummingsaid

TWO new shipping containers have been delivered and are being used by the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail volunteers at Traralgon East.

The containers are used forthe storage of equipment and materials at the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail block on Dranes Road.

In September 2024, the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail committee received agrant of $7700aspart of the Latrobe City Council2024/25 Community Grant Program -Capital Works Minor.

The containers are temporarily located at the southern end of the Dranes Rd block and will be movedtotheir final position closertothe new GippslandWater compound and the entryinto the block.

“Thisgrant has allowedustopermanentlysecure our equipment, making the machinery and tools more accessible to volunteers. We greatly appreciate theassistanceofall ourvolunteers involved in

Fire

An early warning of afire will give you time to assist your family or disabled people from your home and call the fire service within atimely manner.

It’s common practice for people to use or charge laptop computers, iPads and mobile phone while they areinbed. The lithium batteries in those devices increase in temperature when thedevice is in useand particularly while being charged, and that heat has to be dissipated in asafeand effective manner.

The practice of placing the device on your bed thermally insulates the underside of the device and prevents heat from being dissipated, and many fires, some fatal, have resultedfrom charging devices on the bed so don’t do it!

 WORKING smoke detectors are an essential safety feature in any home or workplace.

for community-led environmental stewardship is highly disappointing.

“It is imperative that the critical role Landcare plays in building resilient landscapes, supporting biodiversity, and empowering our regionalcommunitiesacross the state is recognised and rewarded.

“The Nationals remain strong supporters of Landcareand backthe programasa highly effective environmental organisation.”

Landcare began in Victoria in 1986 when Joan Kirner, then Labor's Minister for Conservation, Forests and Lands, andHeather Mitchell, then presidentofthe Victorian Farmers Federation, joined forces to create what was then called Land Care.

$4.78m federal funding

Plan: TheTraralgon TyersInterconnect will run underground and connect at Dranes Road and Traralgon-MaffraRdinTraralgon.

Photograph supplied

“Theinterconnect willfuture proof the supply capacity and enable delivery for agrowing population.”

Areyou related to Sarah? Shippingcontainer depositdream

getting containers in place and ready to use, and for the storage of our equipment on their property while we awaited the installation,” Gippsland Plains Rail Trail President, Helen Hoppner said.

The trail is asignificant community assetand provides awide range of benefitstothe Gippsland community including socially, environmentally (retention of remnant vegetation) and economically, as atourist destination year-round.

The Gippsland Plains Rail Trail Committee of Management works diligently to ensure the preservation of the 63 kilometres of the trail, with an extensive volunteer network, from Traralgon to Stratford, who assist in regular maintenance and management.

Newmembers, groups or individuals are always welcome to jointhe Friends of theGippsland Plains Rail Trail.

Ms Cummingsaidthe funding contribution from the federal government would cover around half of the project cost and assist in delivering the project without adding additionalpressure on customer bills.

“This funding boost will assist us to deliver the project without ourcustomersfooting the whole bill,” she said.

“This will improve overallnetworkefficiency, reduce long-terms costs and help us keep downward pressure on customer bills.”

This National Water Grid project is funded by the federal government and delivered in partnership with Gippsland Water.

To find out moreabout the Traralgon-Tyers interconnect, visit: www.gippswater.com.au/ traralgontyersinterconnect

Assistance: Gippsland PlainsRail Trail volunteersIan Keithand SteveLeatham in front of the newshipping containers. Photograph supplied

If you wouldliketojoin thefriendly network of trail users and supporters, register your interest via: https://gippslandplainsrailtrail.com.au/ contact/#friends-of-the-rail-trail

Asmoke detector should be installed in the living areas and in every sleeping area of your home.

If they are astandalone battery type alarm, they should be tested frequently, and the battery changed every year, unless it is amodel that has a10year lithium battery installed. Many of us sleep with our bedroom door closed in the cooler months, and that presents arange of potential life threats.

If afireoccurs within your bedroom, andthe doorisclosedand there are no smoke detectorsin the room, your chances of survival are very slim.

Smoke from asmouldering fire is likely to prove fatal within the first three minutes.

The fire will develop into aflame fire, which might not be noticed by anyone for (say) another three or four minutes.

Acall to the fire service takes another minute and the response timetoyour home could be anything from 5-20 minutes.

So, you have been exposed to the effects of the fire for anything from 10 to 30 minutes before any effective firefighting assets are in aposition to begin firefightingactivities or attempt to rescue you.

Remember, the initial smokehad likelybeen fatal within the first three minutes.

The temperature within aroom fire will be up to 100 degrees Celsius at floorlevel, increasingto between 800-1000 degrees Celsiusatceilinglevel.

The human body can’t survive anything like those temperatures.

Your only chance of survival is aproperly working smokealarm in every sleeping area, particularly if you sleep with your bedroom door closed.

Phil Gloverisaveteran of a40year fire service career and was the Officer In Charge of the Morwell Fire Brigade.

Eye into theregion’senergyfuture

FOUR young women from Traralgon Secondary College and St Paul's Anglican Grammar School visited ENGIE and Eku Energy’s Hazelwood Battery.

Hazelwoodisthe first utility-scale battery to be built at the site of adecommissioned coal fired power station in Australia.

The tour was part of aw eeklong Science, Technology, Engineeringand Mathematics (STEM) program delivered for the secondtimeinthe Valley by the local arm of global engineering, architecture and construction services company GHD.

The STEM program was aimed at engaging with female Year 10 high school students to encourage them to pursue STEM-based subjects into Year 11 and 12 and onwards.

ENGIE’s Technical Project Manager, Noel Ashford (a local in theLatrobe Valley), who ran the tour, said students were inquisitive about the region's energy future:

“GHD arranged asitevisit of ENGIE and Eku Energy’s 150MW/150MWh Hazelwood Battery to give the students an appreciation of areal life, operational battery, as well as to show them akey enabler of the transition to renewable energy in the Latrobe Valley," he said.

“As the first utility-scale batterytobebuilt at the site of adecommissioned coal fired power station in Australia, it is agreat demonstration of the future of energy.

"The battery has the capacitytostore the equivalent of an hourofenergy generated from the rooftop solar systems of approximately 30,000 homes.

“It would be great to see more women working in the renewable energy industry in the future, especially in the Valley, and the visit was well timedaswe’re currently developing additional battery projects to makethe most of theexcess grid connection capacity we have on site.”

GHD’s TechnicalDirector for Energy Storage &Renewables, Peter Killeen, also Latrobe Valley hoped the visit would inspire the next generation of power workers.

"Promoting STEM-based career paths in the youngergenerationisvital for the continued success and deployment of technical industries," he said.

"Australiaand the whole worldhave abig task at hand in realising the energy transition to combat climate change and we need the continuation of a workforce coming through to ensure we deliver on the goal of realising the energy transition for the benefit of humanity as awhole

"Women continuetobeunderrepresented in STEM-based careers, so influencing the young

On the ground: GHDTechnical Director forEnergy Storage&Renewables,Peter Killeenand

ENGIE Technical Project Manager,Noel Ashford with highschool students Petra, Janina, Merola and Brookeinfront of the Hazelwood Battery

women to pursue arewarding career in STEM is akey focus area for GHD who value diversity in our company.

"Visiting the Hazelwood Battery (HBESS) is important to give the girls an appreciationofa real lifeoperational project and how the system supports keeping the lights on.

"With our STEM-based project being based on developing aBattery EnergyStorage System (BESS) project from the ground up, it allows them to connect the dotsinthe workwehave given them Thegirls cameinto ourprogram knowingvery little of what engineers actually do. Feedback from the girls following the site visit to HBESS was that it really opened their eyes to how much engineers do and the value they are to society as awhole.

"Seeing what goes into designing, building and operating aBESShas allowed them to develop a realisation of how much breadth of opportunity there is in pursuing acareer in engineering.

"The Latrobe Valley has the legacy of being the centre of power generation for Victoria. With that comes ampleavailable transmission connection capacity when the coal fired power stations retire.

"This, coupled with Gippsland and the Bass Strait having excellent wind resourcesfor windpower

Students helping students in Fiji

MIRBOONORTHSecondaryCollegestudents

are taking part in the Books Beyond Borders initiative.

The driver for the initiative has beento help the school'sVCE Visual Media teacher, Amanda Vosper, who is travelling to Fiji to volunteer at arural school next month.

Students are seeking donations of lightweight educational resources to support early literacy and numeracy for young students who often have limited access to books and engaging classroom materials.

Specifically, students are looking for:

 Soft-cover early reader books;

 Alphabet books and phonics readers;

 Picture storybooks and beginner chapter books;

 Bright, engaging educational posters, and;

 Early primary school workbooks/activity books.

All donated items will be personally delivered and used to help build amore enriching classroom experience for children in Fiji.

If you are able to assistorwould likemore information, get in touchwith the school by emailing Brett Gay: brett.gay@education.vic. gov.au or Amanda Vosper: amanda.vosper@ education.vic.gov.au

Donations can be dropped off at Mirboo North Secondary College or the University Campus of Kurnai College (located on the grounds of Federation University Gippsland).

Theschool is also happy to arrange pickup or discussthe most convenient way to receive donations.

Students wished to say "Vinaka vakalevu" (thank you very much).

Photograph supplied

generation, make the Valleythe perfect place to install renewable energy systems in both wind and BESS to support Victoria’selectricity demands and keep the National Electricity Market (NEM) stable and secure. This is the end of an era for

fossil fuel based power generation, but investing in renewable energy and training the next generation will allow the Valley to retain its title of being the power house of Victoria."

ENGIE’s Hazelwood Battery Energy Storage System has been operation since 2023. Ajoint venture between ENGIE and Eku Energy, it was the largestprivatelyfunded, utility-scale battery in Australia at the time it was built.

ENGIE’s 150MW/ 150MWh Hazelwood Battery has the capacity to store the equivalent of an hour of energy generated from the rooftop solar systems of 30,000 homes.

The Hazelwood Batterycontinuestosupport Victoria’s ambitious target of achieving 95 per cent of its energy from renewables by 2035, as it enablesmore renewable energy capacity to connect to the grid.

The Hazelwood BESS utilises the existing 1600 MW of latent transmission infrastructure at the site of the formerHazelwoodPower Stationto connect with the grid, providing rapid response capabilities to support grid frequency and stability, as well as for the greater integration of renewable energy resources.

To enable the project to respond to changing market conditions, it was designed and built to allowfor the expansionofboth the duration (MWh) and power capacity (MW) by utilising the existing connection point.

The battery could be further expanded by up to 150 MW/300 MWh, helping to future-proof the energy supply across Victoria and the NEM.

Apprentice Amberstate finalist

TRARALGON apprentice and TAFE Gippsland student,Amber Leyshan has been named afinalist in the prestigious2025Victorian Training Awards.

Amber, who is completing her Certificate III in Engineering Fabrication, is one of three finalists in the highly competitive Apprentice of the Year category, recentlyannounced by the state government.

At 22, Amber has already made asignificant impact, not only in her trade but as apassionate advocate for women in STEM.

After deferring auniversity teaching degree, she turned to TAFE Gippslandinsearch of anew challenge and the chance to build skills beyond her comfort zone.

Sincethen, she has become aleading face of TAFE Gippsland’s Women in STEM initiatives, contributing to media campaigns, school outreach, public events and peer mentoringencouraging others to forge their ownpathin traditionally male-dominated industries.

TAFEGippsland teacher, Dale Dye said Amber’s achievements and character make her astandout candidate for the award.

“Amber’s commitment to continuous learning, her drive to reachher full potential and her dedication to inspiringothers- particularly young women -tostepinto new spaces and take on new challenges, make her an exemplary apprentice,”

Dale said.

“Her talent and dedication were also on full display when she recently earned the honour of representing Gippsland at the 2025 WorldSkills National Championships in the welding category -animpressive achievement that furtherreflects her growth and excellence in the field.”

The Victorian Training Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of individuals, training providers, and employers across the

state’s TAFE and training sector. Winners will be announced at agalaevent in Melbourne on Friday, September 19.

Award recipients will receive $5000 prize money and may also go on to represent Victoriaat the Australian Training Awards later this year.

Rising star: AmberLeyshan,22, is currently completing her CertificateIII in Engineering Fabrication (Boilermaking) apprenticeship at AGLLoy Yang

Photograph supplied

SIXDECADES IN SIXWEEKS 2005-2014

Community rallies through a tough decade

The decade from 20 05 to 2014 was no less eventful than the one before it

Through flames, flood, and fierce debate, the pages of the Latrobe Valley Express guided readers through what many regard as the region’s most challenging years

Natural disasters dominated headlines, as the Valley saw a snow storm, fire in many forms (and lots of it), and a rare mini tornado tore through Boolarra The collapse of the Mor well River triggered flooding in the Yallourn open cut, disrupting power generation and livelihoods alike

Yet amid the chaos, moments of hope and solidarity shone through Communities rallied in the face of adversity, echoing the spirit seen a decade earlier when Moe pushed back against the stigma following the Jaidyn Leskie case

Fire relief ef for ts mobilized thousands and the Valley opened its arms to Sudanese refugees fleeing civil war, enriching the region’s cultural fabric

The long-awaited Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquir y delivered its final repor t, paving the way for the Latrobe Health Assembly, a new chapter in public health and community advocacy

This was a decade where hardship met hear t, and where the Valley’s strength was not just tested, but proven

2005

FREAK snow storms blanketthe LatrobeValley in white. Theheaviestdumping of snow in decades brings CBDs to astandstill and isolatesMirboo Northfromthe rest of theworld

MORWELL’S business community is left in shock af teranarson at tack destroysshops in thetown’s CBD

DOZENS of Moeschoolstudentsand their teachersrun to safety moments before theirbus burstsintoflamesonanexcursion to Walhalla

ABOUT 70 0jobsannounced across threeprojects worthmorethan$60 0million –AustralianPaper’s Maryvale Mill expansion, MacquarieBank’s plantationstosupplytimbertothe mill andthe Gippsland waterfac tory

THE face behind theinternational asbestos campaign againstJamesHardie, Moeman Fred G Gibbs dies

2010

2006

DIVERSION of MorwellRiver and Strzelecki Highway to make wayfor International Power Hazelwood’s $400 millionWestField Project begins

MOE Meat Packersset to double itsworkforce overthe next twoyears,providing employment fora further130 locals

LOCAL footballidentityRussell Northe is approached to runfor theseatofMor well in the stateelection. He laterwinsahead of Brendan Jenkins. Gary Black wood takesthe seat of Narracan from IanMaxfield

MORWELL’S D24communication branchgets relocatedtoBallarat

FREAK mini tornado-like stormhitsBoolarra with severe 135km/hwinds and horizontalrain knocking down countlesstrees causing damage to roofs, cars and fences

2011

2007

AN ultralight collideswithanother aircraf tover LatrobeRegionalAirport killing a65year-old Warragul man

THE first wave of refugees from war-torn Sudan arriveinthe LatrobeValley HEAV Y rain floodsmuchofGippsland leavinga bigtrail of damageinthe af termath

RADIOTHERAPY treatment at theGippsland Cancer Care Centre almostreaches full capacity, just sixmonths af teritopened

WALL collapsesatTru Energy Yallourn’s open cut coal mine. WaterfromLatrobe Riverpours into the mine flooding part of it. Thecompanystarts urgent workstodiver tLatrobe Riverfromthe mine to stop theflowsofwater

ACORONER findsthe deliberatelightingofthe CoopersCreek blazecausedthe deathofaman f fighting it

2012

CHARGES againstthe 24 year-oldman accused of lightingthe Delburn Complexbushfires in 20 09 aredismissedbymagistrateSimon Garnet twho says therewas insufficient evidence forajur yto find himguilt y

VICTORIA Policeannounces it will armMor well of ficers with stun guns as part of a12-month trial program

MORE than 40 0mournersattendthe funeral of four year-old Bangoang Tut, whowas killed by a drinkdriver whileplaying in hisMor well frontyard

TRARALGON mandieswhenthe six-seater

char teraircraf thewas flying crashlandedneara primar yschoolinSydney. He is remembered as a hero foravoidingthe school in landing

LATROBE City Councillor Lisa Priceischarged with twobreachesofsec tion 79 of theLocal GovernmentAct whichrelates to disclosure of conflic tofinterest

CALLIGNEE residentswelcome theopening of thenewly constructed town hall and fire station in conjunc tion with Australia Day

ASECTION of thePrincesFreeway is announced to be closed forthree months and traf ficdiver ted throughMor wellafter alandslippageatthe Hazelwood mine

TELSTRA announcesits Moecallcentrewill be shut down resulting in alossofmorethan100 jobs

AFTER sevenmonths of closure,several collisions and many annoyedresidents,the PrincesFreeway Mor wellisreopened with motoriststaking advantage immediately

MISMANAGEMENT and an ‘oversight lapse’ of theGippsland WaterFac tory Project were highlighted as causes forcostblowouts,a report finds

LATROBE Valley welcomesits ‘bestemployment newsinalongtime” withthe announcement of $100 million in stateand federalfundingfor Victoria’s first Carbon Captureand Storage program

KIRWAY Construc tionsbuildingcompany closes raisingdebateoverthe role of government stimulus spending in aperceived ‘recession’ LOGISTICAL nightmare of repairing ongoing flood damageinYallourn’scoalminesetsin, as thepower station scramblestofindalternative meansofsupplying it’s coal-fired generators MORWELL River’scollapse intothe Yallourn open cutcoal mineislabelled“catastrophic”by thestate’s miningand energy union

ENERGY Brix coal briquettefac tory is thrown a lifeline,landing$50 millioninFederal Government funding, enabling it to continuefor another two years

2008

LATROBE Valley’s indigenous communit y welcomesanapology by PrimeMinister Kevin Rudd as ‘animpor tant first step’inthe process of reconciliation

COMMUNIT Y leaders, businessesand developers launch ascathingattackonthe State Government’spreferred TraralgonBypassroute, labelling it a‘poorchoice’ and a‘kick in theguts’ forthe communit y

DWINDLING interestfromstock agents is blamedfor theimpending closure of the TraralgonSaleyardsfollowing itssale

GIPPSLAND is lef tinpolitical limbofor more than amonth followingthe resignation of NationalsMHR forGippsland,Peter McGauran, af ter25years in politics

GIPPSLAND Watercustomersare expec tedto be hitwiththe state’shighest waterprice hikes following g applantodouble tariffsoverfiveyyears

2013

LATROBE Valley’s first powerstation walkout in morethana decade takesacostlytoll, with Energy Australia warningcontinuedactionwould jeopardise future employmentatthe operation.A 24-hourstoppagebypower generation operators cost thecompany $500,0 00 in theimmediate term

AN estimated300 millionlitresofwater cascades down a40-metreminewallintoYallourn’sactive opencut

DOUBT is cast overmillionsofdollars in federal funding forValleyprojects, including thelongawaitedMoe railwayprecinc trevamp. Following revelationsthe governmentfailedtofinalise funding agreementsbeforethe elec tion period

EMBATTLED Moerailway revitalisationproject is back on track, followingaconcrete funding commitment by theCoalition Government

2009

ICONIC binishellatMonash University Churchill is demolished

DELBURN Complexbushfire tears throughthe townsofBoolarra, Yinnar,Darlimurla andMirboo North, destroying 30 homes and burningmore than 6300 hectares

FORMER Mor wellresidentPeter Siddlebecomes thefirst personfromthe Valley selected to play in an AustralianAshes side

MORWELL father Euan Comrie,Hazelwood NorthfatherMax Cranwell andhis daughter Leanne Harris,ofTraralgon arekilled when their planeflyingfromPor tMoresbytoKokoda in PapuaNew Guinea crashesinthe jungle

A23YEAR-OLD manischarged with multiple counts of intentionally causingabushfire, arson and conduct endangeringlifeand proper ty in r relation to the Delburn bushfires

BACKINTIM E

Housing &Big-Ticketitems

ä Churchill Cour t Location 3 bedroom brick veneer with double garage Built-in robes and carpor t -$118,000

ä Three bedroom unit Elgin

st Mor well - $138,000

Pajero GL X, $39,990Traralgon Mitsubishi

Corolla Ay to Sedan 1 78 litre$21,490 – Wight’s Toyota

EverydayEssentials

ä Mushroom cups - $5.98kg

ä Nutrigrian - $4

ä Por terhouse 1 5kg Bulk Pack - $9 98kg

2014

MONASH University Gippsland makesits of ficial transition to Federation University,following the merger of theChurchill campus andthe University of Ballarat

FIRE star ts at Hernes Oakonthe Black Saturday anniversar yand spreads to Mor well’s outskirts, spotting intothe Hazelwoodmineand alog pile at APM

ASTUDY into thelong-term health ef fectsofthe Hazelwood mine fire is announced

ELECTRICIT Y flashoveroccursatthe Morwell terminal,after high-voltage powerlines fall onto low-voltage lines, stripping 80,0 00 homes of poweracrossGippsland

MORWELL char produc tion facility Auschar comesoffline af ter45years of operation

STATE Government announces a$1.4million packagetorevitalise theMor well town centre

ä Huggies Nappies - $15.99ea

ä Churchill LPG - 49 7c ltr

Unleaded - 103.7c ltr

ä Smith and Hooper Cab Merlot t $15 99 - Monacellars Mor well

ä 3 Star beef mince - $6 48kgNorm Oliver Meat

ä Seedless watermelon

95c pk - Farmgate Fresh

ä VB cans and stubbies - $32.99 Manny’s Liquor

ä 10kg bag of onion - $3.99Farmgate Fresh Midvalley

ä Cof fee and cake of choice - $3.50 - Zeallys Bakehouse The Express, By Numbers

ä CIRCUL ATION – 36,661 Thursday 5 Januar y, 2012

ä Cost per paper - $1 30

SIXDECADES IN SIXWEEKS 2005-2014

Dark decade: B Black k Saturdday y fireschhange th

Thedecadeof2005-2014 is forever etched into thehistory of theExpress andthe LatrobeValley, andinthe case of thebiggeststory of that era, andpossibly themostimpor tant frontpagewe’ve eve ran, still haunts thecommunitytoday. Th stor yisBlack Saturday.

Af tera week of notable heatwavesacross much of easternVic toria, whichsaw Melbourne’sthird hottestday in histor y (45.1°C),Vic toriaexperienced it’s worst summer to date

Firesraged from February 7toMarch 14,claiming 173lives across thestate in theprocess.For theLatrobe Valley and greaterGippsland,Black Saturdaywas notjusta distantheadline— it was local, it was devastating,and it changedhow communities viewedthe bush,the seasons, andtheir ownsafety.

TheExpress reported theValley’shighe recordedtemperatureonlyamonth befo andthe Januar y29edition announced th Gippsland’s dr yspell hadcreated perfec bushfire conditions,which theCFA regi manager at thetimesaidthe authorityw “ready forany thing”

Aweek later, thesame paperrepor ted30 homeswiped outin6385hec taresofb proper ty across Boolarra,Mirboo Northand Yinnar,which were dubbed theDelburn fires. This occurred theday af terthe previous editi was released,January 30,whentwo firesjoi d to form one, andinthe processtookout 3700 hectares of theHancockVic toriaPlantations.

ThetownshipofBoolarraran outofwat at 4pmthatday fighting theblazesand wasn’ middaythe next day. Policedeclaredthe investigation for arsonistsatfault would“mirror thesizeofdestruc ti Arewardwas announced of $100,0 00 foranyonew information that may lead to thearrestofthe culpri theinvestigation wasran outofMor well CIU, with th of arsonspecialist of ficers andtheir forensic teams.B February 5, Boolarra residentswereinformed that th watersupplywas nowready fordrinkingagain.Thisw notthe endhowever,asthe worst bushfire in Victor histor ycame on 7Februar y2009, andgoontobek as BlackSaturday.

Thefireclaimed thelives of 21 LatrobeValleyResid whilepolicecontinuedtohuntfor theDelburn arso Up till then,whenVic toriansthought of theworst bushfire,theywereremindedofAsh Wednesday1983, Black Saturdaywas describedasfar worse, as multiple firesraged simultaneously.

This increased thedif ficultyCFA personnel faced, despite already beingseasons by the2006Great Divide Fires.

Over thesame weekend, policereceived an anonymouscallcontainingvital information on the Delburn arsonist,and publicly urgedthemtocall back,beforereleasinganimage of aToyotaHilux sightedinthe fire complex, that they believe may have beenoperatedbythe culprit.

Around 50 0peoplemadeuse of theTraralgon Little TheatreasanEmergencyReliefCentre, whichgrew to 80 0bythe Tuesday. Schoolsonthe more rural fringes of Latrobewereclosed as aprecaution. Loy Yang was quicklyplaced on highalert,asspotfires could be caused in themineitselfbyflying embers Of the61homes in thetownofCallignee, 57 were wipedout by blackSaturday.

s edition esjoined ut370 0 ations ter asn’t restore he investigation on”. with it, as the help By their s was ria’s known dents, onist 983, iple le w y s that e scene, duntil on or

TheRed Crosssaw thousandsregisteras searchingfor lovedonesinGippsland,who they hadnot heardbackfromsince thefires begun. ResidentsinCallignee, Traralgon South, HazelwoodSouth,Jeeralang,Balook,LeRoy, Jumbuck, Valley View andBudgereeEast continuedtofacethe threat of incomingflames, as they prepared for“an intenseand exhausting week”, as theExpress reported on February 12.Atthat point in time,there were 134DSE firefighters on thescene, suppor ting one tanker,43slip-one units, andfivedozers.

HEARTBREAK

SIXDECADES IN SIXWEEKS

Thefirewas confirmedby authorities, likethe Delburnfire, to be deliberately lit. Speculation was rife,with many confident the eventswerelinked, andthe police took ef fortsevenfur ther,putting 10 0officersintoTaskforcePhoenix, to catchany culprits andinvestigate deaths caused,working with the coroner’s of fice

Monday February 16’s copy of the Expressannounced chargeshad been laid againsta 30 -yearold male, who was nottobenamedfor legal reasons, on thepreviousThursday, February 12 That manwould turn outtobeBrendan Sokaluk, whowas releasedthisApril af ter serving14ofhis 17-yearand nine month sentence. He was chargedwithone count ch of arsoncausing death, intentionally htinga bushfire andpossessionofchild pornography

Whilethe police workedtoput thearsonistbehind bars andget thesequenceofeventsstraight,the CFA continuedtoworkonsnuffingout anyremaining fires, usingthermal imagingcamerastosearchfor hostpots in HazelwoodSouth,bothonthe ground and from helicopters

ANational Day of Mourning was held on February 22, whichsaw crowds of locals attend Monash University’s Gippsland campus,aseight otherceremonieswere heldacrossBeechwor th,Myr tleford, Bendigo, Diamond Creek, Pakenham,Yarra Glen,Yarram, andWarragul. By this time,650 0ofthe 1700 on theRed Crossregistr yhad been found, Marchsaw thehealing processbegin,while some of thefires persisted untilSaturday14, over700 people attended arecovery meetingfor Jeeralang-Churchill residentsinTraralgon,led by former Victoria Police Commissioner ChristneNixon

Locals sawsomereliefasshe said thewords “There is $209 milliondollars availableinrecovery funds, one of the estever. It is your fund,given by thecommunity,tothe community.The governmentdoesn’t getany”. By April, ctorianPremier John Brumby hadannounced aroyal commissionintothe fires, to better thegovernments shfire strategy endanSokalukwasn’ttried until2012, af terseveral membersofthe public found images of theman.A conditionofhis identity beingrevealedwas that his likenessand addressweretoremainprivate.His face andhomeaddress was across socialmedia, leading to threatsofviolencebeingmadeonhis life,which impac tedthe court case He was found guilty,causing thedeath of tenpeople destroying150 homes and36,000 hectares of land In themonthsthatfollowed, thecommunityrallied. Localser vice clubs, schools, andsportsteams led donation drives.Express readersflooded thepaper with let ters:ofgrief,ofanger,and of prideinthe courage of frontline responders.

T

Recovery was slow andpainful Theonce-lush ridgelines south of Traralgon wereblackened scars. Formanysur vivors,the trauma enduredlongafter thefires were extinguished It reinforced theValley’senduring vulnerability to naturaldisaster, butalsoits capacitytorebuild.It taught anew generation theweight of summerskies andthe valueof community.

Sixteen yearson, thesigns of that summer arestill there, in rebuilt home andupgradedCFA facilities Gippsland will neverforgetthe fires. Butithas carriedon, stronger andwiser,shapedforeverbythat searing Saturdayin2009.

HOROSCOPES

by Joanne MadelineMoore

August 11 -August17, 2025

So pick yourself up, shake yourself off, and start runn ng your

race, Aries Self-belief and persistence wil get you where you want to go! Friday is fabulous for romance and creativity Mercury finally moves forwards in your home zone plus Venus (your ruling planet) and Jupiter link up in your neighbourhood zone So, it s a wonderful week for family matters and local commun ty connections Saturday favours ambitious dreams as you follow your true destiny Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, Madonna (who turns 67 on Saturday): “I stand for freedom of expression, doing what you believe in, and going after your dreams ”

The buzzword for the week is Commun cation, as Mercury (your patron planet) finally moves forward in your neighborhood and conversation zones Expect increased social interaction and educational activities within your local community but make sure you slow down and choose your words wisely (especially on Monday) Wisdom for the week is from writer and phi osopher Jean-Paul Satre: “Words are more treacherous and powerful then we think ”

Are you making the most of lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter both transiting through (and linking up) n your sign? For the first time in 12 years! Crab charisma is at an all-time h gh as you charm the cynics and dazz e the doubters with little effort on your part So it’s the perfect time to apply for a job, bonus or promotion; enter a competition; or call in a few old favours Saturday is the perfect day to write down your dreams and aspirations for the future

Mercury turns direct and the Sun’s also shining in Leo so it s time to communicate your creative ideas with extra pizzazz, dream mind-blowing dreams, and/or make connections with bohemian folk from fore gn shores But, with Uranus activating your wanderlust zone, many restless Cats will feel cooped up, housebound and a bit stir-crazy Pull on your travelling shoes and escape on a wild weekend getaway or plan an adventurous trip for sometime soon

Mercury moves forward in your solitary zone, which favours meditation contemplation relaxation and investigation as you solve a problem or get to the bottom of a mystery However, f you stubbornly hang onto the past and resist change, then you re in for an unpredictable time Strive to be more adaptable to constantly chang ng c rcumstances Heed the wise words of social commentator Will Rogers: “Chaotic action is preferable to orderly inaction

On Tuesday, Venus (your patron planet) and Jupiter (prosperity planet) pair up your career zone So, Lady Luck is heading your way! If you want to get ahead then strive to work smarter not just harder Your natural charm and generosity will win people over If you choose to take on a professional challenge in the coming year, you ll find the benefits will far outweigh the difficulties The more you focus on a cherished dream the more ikely it w ll come true

With Mercury finally moving forwards in your career zone a professional matter or a volunteer project should gradually shift from go-slow to all systems go If it’s too much to handle on your own, then don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from your fr ends, work colleagues and/or your extended peer group Don’t battle on alone other people are happy to pitch in and help The weekend is wonderful for relaxing, unwinding, drifting and dreaming

Venus (planet of uck) and Jupiter (your ruling planet) pair up your money-from-others zone on Tuesday So – sometime over the coming year – expect a boost to your bank balance via a pay rise, work bonus, bumper tax return, superannuation payout or extra business Any windfal won t last long if you don t manage it wisely though Mercury also moves forward (on Monday) which is good news for travel plans, long holidays and weekend getaways

This week the Sun and Mercury (moving forward) highlight a close relationship, shared finances or a joint venture Secrets and issues of loyalty could also be placed under the microscope as you discover whether your trust in someone has been well-placed And prepare for a we come burst of Capricorn creativ ty and energy as Uranus links up with your ruler Saturn Lucky opportun ties could magically manifest, especially at work or via a family connection

Mercury moves forward in your relationship zone, and Uranus (your patron planet) makes a ovely link with Saturn So it’s a good week to be your creative, quirky Aquarian self – in an organsed and strategic way Innovation + improvement = success Your motto is from birthday great, Madonna (who was born on August 16, 1958): “No matter who you are, no matter where you ve come from, you can always change, become a better version of yourself ”

On Monday Mercury turns direct in your daily rout ne and work zones so plans and appointments should start to run more smoothly Then Venus and Jupiter join up in your leisure-and-pleasure zone on Tuesday So it’s a good week to plan a party, book a massage, attend a concert, see an exhibition, organise a night at the movies or a rowdy lunch with your favourite friends The weekend favours relaxation contemplation and dreaming about the future

COPYRIGHTJoanne Madeline Moore 2025

Outstanding: MoeRotarians Julian Yeatman, David Powerand Ross Maxfield withtheircertificates of service.The trio arepictured with District Governor,Colin Byronand Rotary Club of Moe President, LynCassar

Service to rotary

ROTARY Club of Moe celebrated aremarkable milestone, honouring Rotarians David Power, Ross Maxfield and Julian Yeatman for 50 years of dedicated service.

David and Ross reached this achievement in March and May, respectively, while Julian will celebrate his milestone in October.

To mark this special occasion, the club hosted a celebratory dinner, joined by DistrictGovernor, Colin Byron, pastRotarians, members and partners.

David and Ross receivedcongratulatoryletters from 2025 RotaryInternational President, Stephanie Urchick, with Julian set to receive his upon reaching his anniversary in October. The evening was filled with tributes, as members and pastRotarians shared cherished memoriesand stories about the honourees.

Thecelebration culminated in the cutting of a commemorative cake -ameaningfultribute to their enduring commitment and service to the Rotary Club of Moe.

Raise the bat: Julian Yeatman, Ross Maxfield and David Powerhavegiven Rotary Club of Moe ahalf-centuryofservice Photographs supplied

McDonald St, Morwell

THE ‘bluestone pitchers’ which form the edging along the median stripinMcDonald Street, Morwell, have been asignificant and distinctive heritage feature of the town for 70 years.

These pitcherswere painstakinglylaidinthe mid-1950s by Shire of Morwell employees, the late Mr Ron Draper and Mr Chris Presley.

Ron revealed when interviewed by Morwell Historical Society member, Elaine Andrijczak, in July 2023, that the Shire of Morwell Engineer, Mr John W. F. Connan, purchased the ‘bluestone pitchers’ which weighed between 63-70lb from the StateElectricity Commission's Yallourn Salvage Store depot to use them as the edging of the median strip in McDonald St.

These particular ‘bluestone pitchers’ had been used in the road kerbside drainage of the town of Yallourn.

Mr Draper recalled this was an early example of recycling and the cost to council was one penny for each ‘bluestone pitcher’.

Mr. Connan saw these‘bluestone pitchers’ as alow-cost opportunity to complete the edging of the median strip and road construction within the council’s limited financial resources.

The construction of McDonald St as adual carriageway in the mid-1950s was amajor project for the Shire of Morwell.

Archibald and Ann Shaw,and brothersDonald and Coll Shaw.

Theplanner’sconcept was to develop McDonald St as amajor road serving the residentialarea with an expanding population, and it also served as the primary heavyvehicletraffic route to APM Maryvale and the nearby sand quarry.

The bluestone pitchers edging along the median stripare fondly remembered by students of the adjacent former Morwell HighSchool which opened in 1956 (Morwell Central Primary School is now on this site). Patrons of the adjacent Morwell Swimming Pool which opened in 1956 (replaced by the Morwell Leisure Centre and opened in April 1994) and motorists driving along McDonald St. McDonald St, Morwell and McDonald Way, Churchill are both named after Angus Finnon McDonald.

Anguswas the youngest of six childrenof Archibald McDonald and Marion (Sally) Shaw. Awidowed Marion McDonald and her children came to Hazelwood North in 1874 with her parents

Subsequently, Marion selected an allotment on the eastern side of Bennetts Creek in 1877 where sheand the familybuilt ahomewhich theycalled Glendonald.

In 1904, the property wassold and Angus joined his mother who had previously relocatedtoMorwell and he became aLand and Estate Agent. Anguswas interested in the advancementofthe town and public affairs, and became aCouncillor of the Shire of Morwellin1911for eight years, being Shire President in 1912/13.

Angus was held in high regard within the community and was involved with the Morwell Mechanics Institute, the Presbyterian Church, and afoundation member of the Morwell Bowling Club. In his younger days he was involved with the Hazelwood Cricket Club and Hazelwood Football Club.

The man himself: AngusFinn McDonald. Photograph supplied

TheGuide

PROFESSOR T

ABC TV,Friday, 8.30pm

This very solid British crime drama (which is actually aremakeofthe Belgian seriesof the same name) starsBen Miller (Austin, pictured) as the titular academic,who teaches CriminologyatCambridge University.Professor Jasper Tempesthas obsessive-compulsive disorder,sohis lifeisone of cleanliness and order –and it’sabouttobecompletely upended when one of hisformer students, DS Lisa Donckers (EmmaNaomi), ropeshim into helpingher outonaninvestigation. In Friday’spremiere, when astudentissexually assaultedatthe university,something about the offender’s MO seems familiar to Donckers So she reachesout to the genius professor to get his takeonthe case

Wednesday, August13

ABC TV (2)

SBS (3)

PICK OF THE WEEK

SURVIVOR:AUSTRALIA

VTHE WORLD

10, Sunday, 7pm

AustralianSurvivorhostJonathan LaPaglia’s swan songisset to be an absolute doozy,with some of the franchise’s mostlegendary players taking on a‘World’team of previous castawaysfrom theUS, Québec, South Africa, New Zealand and Finland. From fanfavourites (LukeToki, Kirby Bentley and the “Godmother” Janine Allis) and former winners (self-crowned “GoldenGod” David Genat,who’s rumoured to be LaPaglia’s replacement,pictured) to thegameplayers(Sarah Tilleke) andoneswelove to hate (“King”GeorgeMladenov, Shonee Bowtell), the producers haveassembled an all-starcastfor LaPaglia’s farewell party.Withexisting alliances in tatters, can the Aussie veterans trusteach other long enough to take on giants of the global game?

LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE

SBS Viceland, Saturday, 8.30pm

Unsurprisingly,suburban mysteries had a stranglehold on viewers in 2020 –asweall got to grips with not leaving ourown backyards, what mysteries lay overthe fencebecame moreinteresting than ever before. Aspiritual successor to BigLittleLies–alsoproduced by and starring Reese Witherspoon –this adaptation of Celeste Ng’s 2017 novelmakes its free-to-air debut tonight.Itfollows the intertwined fatesofCleveland mothers Elena (Witherspoon) and Mia (KerryWashington). Mia’s arrivalintownupends Elena’s illusion of apicture-perfect lifeinnotime. Set in the late ’90s, with frequent flashbacksaswepiece together their pastlives and the secrets each hides, this is slow burn is irresistible viewing.

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Four Corners.(R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow.(R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club Address. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 1.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.30 Back Roads. (R) 3.00 Guy Montgomery’sGuy Mont SpellingBee. (Final, PG,R) 3.45 Grand Designs Transformations. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family.(R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6am Morning Programs. 8.00 DD India News Hour 9.00 Susan Calman’s GrandDay Out. (PG, R) 9.55 CharlesI:ToKill AKing. (PG, R) 11.00 Rick Steves’ Europe.(R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Dateline.(R) 2.30 Insight.(R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour 3.40 The Cook Up.(R) 4.10 BettanyHughes: Treasures Of Azerbaijan. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 TheMorning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 TheVoice. (PGl, R) 2.25 BorderSecurity: International. (PG, R) 3.00 TheChase. (R) 4.00 SevenNews At 4. 5.00 TheChase Australia.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Wonders Of VolcanoesWith Dara ÓBriain. (Premiere, PGa) Dara ÓBriain embarks on aquest in Italy

Micallef. 9.10 Austin. (PG, R) Julian goes rogue at hispublisher’s office. 9.40 WouldI Lie To You? (PG)

ABC LateNews. 10.25 TheBusiness. (R) 10.40 Planet America. (R) 11.10 YouCan’t Ask That. (Mal, R) 11.40 Long Lost Family.(R) 12.25 Rage.(MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

8.25 Aerial Australia. (PG) Looks at the farsouth of Australia. 9.20 Smilla’s Sense Of Snow. (M) Smilla is lead toward aburied secret.

10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Estonia. (Ma)

12.30 Das Boot. (MA15+a, R) 2.25 Living With The Boss. (PG,R) 4.05 Curious Traveller.(PG R) 4.35 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

(31) 6am

Peter Rabbit. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 IsadoraMoon. 7.00 Supertato 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.40 The Inbestigators. 7.55 Operation Ouch! 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 AbbottElementary 9.15 The Mysterious Benedict Society 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 HomeAnd Away (PGa)

7.30 The1%Club UK. (PG) Hosted by LeeMack.

8.30 TheFront Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and AndyMaher takea lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hamish McLachlan sits down withErin Phillips.

10.15 Armed And Dangerous: Stickups. (Mav,R)

11.45 Border Security: International. (PGadl)

12.15 Imposters (Madlv,R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

(72,

THE ROOK E Seven, Mo

Fans of this havebeene awaiting its nowseason finally arrive shores. Orig (the always Fillion) is ba taking abul everybit of years. Mean (Melissa O’N and Tim(Er Winter) app to be movin from their b up and arep in chargeof new pair of rookies –ne Seth(Patric Keleher) and cocky Miles (Deric Augustine) –who find themselves thrownrigh in thedeep With baddie (Matthew G and Jason(S Kazee) stillo run, thingss ahigh-stake forthe whoWilshireDiv KIE onday, 8.55pm police series eagerly return, and n sevenhas edonour ginal rookie John likeable Nathan ck in actionafter let, but is feeling f his almost50 nwhile Lucy Neil, pictured) ric pear ngon breakput f a LAPD ervy ck c s ht end. esOscar Glave) Steve onthe soon take esturn ole Midvision.

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 Today 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 TheBlock.(PGl, R) 1.00 Paramedics (Mam, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point (PG) 4.00 9NewsAfternoon 4.30[VIC]TippingPoint Australia.(PG) 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30[VIC]WINNews. 6.00 Drew Barrymore.(PGas) 7.00 Neighbours. (PGa, R) 7.30 Everyday Gourmet (R) 8.00 Bold.

6.00 9News

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 TheBlock. (PGl) The teams create memorable bathrooms.

8.40 Clarkson’s Farm: Porking. (Mls) Jeremy Clarkson sets to work getting the farm ready for it’snewest residents.

9.40 TheGrand Tour (MA15+l) Jeremy Clarkson and James Maytravelacross Europe 11.00 9News Late.

11.30 DamianLewis:Spy Wars. (Mv,R)

12.20 TippingPoint. (PG,R) 1.15 Innovation Nation. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa) 4.30 ACurrent Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am MorningPrograms. 8.00 Surfing Aust. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. Noon MOVIE:

6am Murder Party. (2022, PGad, French) 7.35 The Movie Show. 8.10 Where Is AnneFrank.(2021, PGadlsv) 10.00 ASingular Crime.(2022, Malsv, Spanish) Noon TheLost King.(2022,Ml) 2.00 Bonneville.(2006,PGa) 3.40 Hum Do Hamare Do (2021, PGl, Hindi) 5.55 AllAtSea (2010,PGans,R) 7.35 AWalk In TheWoods (2015,Mls,R) 9.30 GlengarryGlenRoss. (1992, MA15+l,R) 11.25 The Report.(2019,Malv) 1.40am 71.(2014, MA15+alv) 3.25 Bull. (2021, MA15+lv) 5.00 Widows’ Peak. (1994,PGalv)

6am Fishing Addiction. 7.00 Fish’n Mates. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 Drag Racing.NDRCTop Fuel Championship.Round3 Highlights. 9.00 Big Shrimpin’. 10.00 Australia ReDiscovered. 10.30 Billy TheExterminator 11.00 American Resto. 11.30 Storage Wars Noon American Pickers. 1.00 Pawn Stars. 2.00 Outback Truckers. 4.00 Swamp People: Serpent Invasion. 5.00 AmericanResto 5.30 Storage Wars 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Highway Patrol. 8.30 The Force: Behind The Line 9.30 Caught On Dashcam. 10.30 World’sWildest

6.00 10 News+. HostedbyDenham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by GrantDenyer. 7.30 Gordon Ramsay’sSecret Service. (PGl) Gordon Ramsay works to savea legendarycafé 8.30 Elsbeth. (Final, PGv)Elsbeth comes face-to-face with many familiar suspects when she triestosolvea murder 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sportand weather 10.55 10 News+. (R) 11.55 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBSMornings.

Star power: KerryWashingtonand Reese Witherspoonin LittleFiresEverywhere

Thursday,August 14

ABC (2) SBS (3)

6am Mor ning Programs. 11.00 Shaun Micallef ’s EveOfDestruction. (PG, R) 11.35 Nigella Bites. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Mav,R) 2.00 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 2.55 Grand Designs. (R) 3.45 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family.(R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6.30 HardQuiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30. 8.00 Back Roads: Mataranka, NT (PG) Kristy O’Brien explores Mataranka, NT 8.30 Griff’sGreat American South. (PG) GriffRhysJones uncovers Alabama’sgritty past.

9.15 CultureByDesign: Sustainability (R) Looks at how design can help us live moresustainably

9.45 Joanna Lumley’sSpice Trail Adventure: Madagascar (PG, R)

10.35 ABC Late News.

10.50 The Business. (R)

11.05 Grand Designs. (R) 11.55 Long Lost Family.(R) 12.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Rage Closer.(R) 3.45 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Do Not Watch This Show 7.40 The Inbestigators. 7.55 Operation Ouch! 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.15 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.40 Dance Life. 10.30 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 1.45pm Black As. 1.55 Yarning Culture Through Film. 2.00 Tradition On APlate. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Black As. 5.30 Te Ao With Moana. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Undiscovered Vistas. 7.30 Going Places. 8.30 Tribal. 9.20 MOVIE: Jackie Brown. (1997, MA15+) Midnight Late Programs.

6am Mor ning Programs. 11.00 Rick Steves’ Europe. (PGa, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Those Who Serve. 3.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’sRivers. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Bettany Hughes Treasures Wester nTurkey.(PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Australian Road Trips. (PG) Presented by Melissa Leong.

8.25 Into The Amazon With Robson Green. (PGa, R) Robson Green explores the Anavilhanas archipelago in his canoe. 9.20 Snowpiercer (MA15+v) Layton descends into the black market with Till. Melanie stages aprize from mounting class tension. 10.10 SBS World News Late. 10.40 Dopesick. (Mals, R) 11.50 Desperate Measures. (Malv,R) 1.30 Curious Traveller.(R) 2.30 Living With The Boss. (PG, R) 4.10 Great Irish Interiors. (R) 4.40 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am Morning Programs. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 SBS50. 12.35 Jimmy Carr’sILiterally Just Told You. 2.25 Fashionista. 2.35 Insight. 3.35 News. 3.40 WorldWatch 5.40 TheFast History Of. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Curse Of Oak Island. 10.10 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 8.50 All At Sea. (2010, PGans) 10.25 AWalk In The Woods. (2015, Mls) 12.20pm The Report. (2019, Malv) 2.30 The Movie Show 3.05 Murder Party.(2022, PGad, French) 5.00 The Movie Show 5.35 The Chaperone. (2018, PGals) 7.35 Hope Springs. (2012, Mas) 9.30 Nobody Has To Know.(2021) 11.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 1. Carlton vCollingwood. 9.10 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 1. West Coast vGold Coast Suns. From Sullivan Logistics Stadium, Perth.

11.15 Kick Ons. Kane Cor nes, Josh Jenkins and Jason Richardson debate the hottest topics and preview the upcoming AFL matches.

11.45 Code Blue: The Killing Of June Fox-Roberts. (MA15+av,R) Follows the murder investigation of June Fox-Roberts.

12.45 Life. (Madv,R)AnIRS agent is murdered.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning Programs. 9.00

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 24. Penrith Panthers vMelbour ne Storm. 9.45 Thursday Night Knock Off. Post-match NRL news and analysis of the Penrith Panthers versus Melbour ne Storm match. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 Outback Opal Hunters. to work Issy’smine. 12.00 First On Scene. (Mad, R)

Friday,August 15

at auniversity is persuaded by aformer student tur ned detective to help her investigate aserial rapist.

9.15 HardQuiz. (PG, R) Presented by TomGleeson.

9.50 Shaun Micallef ’s EveOf Destruction. (PG, R) Hosted by Shaun Micallef.

10.25 ABC Late News.

10.40 Austin. (PG, R) 11.10 Silent Witness. (Ma, R) 12.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6.30 SBS World News.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

7.35 The Good Ship Murder (Mv)

8.25 The Royals: AHistory Of Scandals: Money Suzannah Lipscomb explores royal spending. 9.25 Britain’sMost Luxurious Train Jour neys: Scotland. (R) Looks at the Midland Pullman train.

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Catch Me AKiller. (Malv)

11.40 The Shelter.(Ma, R) 1.20 Romulus. (MA15+av,R) 3.15 Curious Traveller.(R) 4.15 Great Irish Interiors. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.55 Teen Titans Go! 8.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 MythBusters “There’sYour Problem!”. 9.00 Robot Wars. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 11.55 India Sweets And Spices. (2021, Mls) 1.45pm Widows’ Peak. (1994, PGalv) 3.40 All At Sea. (2010, PGans) 5.15 First Cow.(2019, PGalv)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 23. Essendon vStKilda.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking alook back at all the action from the game. 11.00 GetOn Extra. Lizzie Jelfs, Matt Hill, Simon Marshall and Brent Zerafa dive headlong into the weekend’sbestracing.

11.30 To Be Advised.

1.20 Touching Evil. (MA15+av) Creegan questions Cyril.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve. 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Police Rescue Australia. (Ma, R) Police Rescue risks their lives.

8.30 MOVIE: San Andreas. (2015, Malv,R)Arescue helicopter pilot searches for his daughter following amassive earthquake. Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino, Alexandra Daddario.

10.45 MOVIE: Collateral Beauty (2016, Ml, R) Aman experiences loss. Will Smith.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

valleysport

Sporting results from around the Latrobe Valley

FOOTBALL

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

THE premiership quarter came early for Traralgon. The Maroonsaddedfivegoalstonone in the second term against Wonthaggi, to win avitally important GippslandLeague clash 15.9(99) to 6.11 (47).

Travelling to awindy Wonthaggi, the visitor’s strong second quarter was virtually the deciding factor in the Round 16 match.

Traralgon made full use of the scoring end kicking with the advantage headingtowardsthe entrance, although by the same token,did equally as well cutting their waythrough the headwind coming in from Inverloch.

After an arm wrestle to start, the Maroons eventually got up and running around the seven minute mark.

Some good body work from veteran Dan McKenna on Wonthaggi defender Shannon Bray opened Traralgon’s account, and set something of atone for the home side.

Bray is regarded as the Power’s best defender of thisgeneration, but even he made some uncharacteristic mistakes. He was not on his own, with Isaac Chugg also done for running too far, while another player inexplicably stepped inside the centre square before the ball was thrown up.

Surely you learn not to do that in under 10s.

The second quarter was indeed ahard watch from the Power’s perspective, and the quicksand that was spread near the interchange gates might as well have been underfoot for anyone wearing a Wonthaggi jumper.

Instances of players spoiling each other leading to aTraralgon goal and downfield free kicks couldn’t help butleave onlookers wondering if the Power was in fact mentally tuned in forthe game.

Fru str ation se ve ntua lly boi led ove r, wit h Wonthaggi playing-coach, Jarryd Blair reportedly heading to the bench and lashing out at the umpires.

Such amove could be viewed as tellinggiven South Gippsland umpires (forwant of abetter economyofwords) have gainedareputation for ‘looking after’ clubs in their own backyard.

As everyoneistaughthowever, if you play well enough, you don’t have to worry about the umpires, and Wonthaggi was simply down in all departments.

Maroons livewire Liam Willaton used all of his gymnastic skills to curl through amiracle goal from deep in the pocket, dribbling it past not only the defender in the goal square, but also while being pushed up against the boundary.

Ahand-gesture of some Gen Zdescription followed aTristen Waack goal, as Traralgon got out to a10point.

The Maroons played theconditions well,at

times seeing their forwards push all the way up to halfback to accommodate thewind.

Thatthe visitors went into quarter time witha 15-pointlead kickingagainstthe breeze meant there was always agood chance the floodgates would open.

Open they did, although Wonthaggi was their own worst enemy.

The Power decided to play Chugg as an extra in defence, the only problem was this freed up the one person in the league you don’t want playing that same role -Traralgon captain, Tye Hourigan.

Hourigan ended up having afield day, finishing with upwards of adozen marks.

By the 10 minute mark of the second quarter, Traralgonhad already registered10scoring shots from 13 inside50s.

The Maroons made the Power pay dearly for their mistakes, and as commentator Nick Leechino said calling the game for TRFM, Wonthaggi was “getting torched on rebound”.

The sting seemed to be taken out of the contest before halftime, so much so Connor Little was able to harmlessly handball to Matt Northe in the goal square while aWonthaggi player stood with his back to the play.

Northe, returning this year frominjury,notched his 100th senior game the previous round, along with Connor Ambler.

Wonthaggi made abetter fist of the contest in

Destiny back in our hands

Lights out for Power

the secondhalfand matchedTraralgon in general play,but really by then the gamewas all but over.

The Power’s intensitywas perhaps summed up whenBlake Cornelius took amarkinthe pocket, and there was no movement inside 50 for asquaring option.

Cornelius also decided to try and take ahanger on Hourigan.

Not abad ploy in some respects -itisabout the only way you are ever going to out mark him.

Both teams kicked three goals in the third, before afairly lacklustre final term saw no score for the first nine minutes.

Some goodcrumbingfrom Jackson McMahon led to his third goal for the game. He was also equally unselfish,squaring theballtoDylan Lopreseat the top of the square in the third.

With the game under wraps, Traralgon only needed to get through.

Unfortunately the Maroons weren’t able to do that entirely, losing Kade Ruyters in the first quarter.

The luckless small forward tried to get back on, but had to declare himself unfit. In ashow of just how cruel sport can be, he missed last season’s premiership through injury, and might be facing asimilar fate 12 months on.

In betternews, Traralgon tall Tom Hamilton did the running for his side at the weekend. The similarly luckless player may still play an active role during finals, while defender Joel Scholtes will be hoping his troublesome shoulder holds out this time around.

The club favourite was in the best at the weekend, setting up anumber of dashing plays.

Houriga nw as as ta ndo ut ,w hi le Harvey Neocleous, Waack, Hugh Dunbar and Willaton found plenty of touches.

Josh Bates, Jye Gilmour (who was almost sent to an early grave by Jacob Cunico), Jai Williams, Josh Schulz, Bray and Anthony Anastasio were best for Wonthaggi.

That the Power are playing VFL player Anastasio would indicate they haven’t given up hope of playing in finals, or thatthe VFLlisted playerruling is aclose cased.

Wonthaggi would notbeplaying Anastasio this late in the season if they weren’t confident he would be able to play finals, despite not being a‘local’ VFL player.

Anastasio needs to play the lasttwo rounds to meet the four game qualification, although there hasbeenradio silencefromthe Gippsland League regardingjust what type of VFL players will be eligible for finals.

It is understood ‘local’ VFL players such as Riley Baldi (Moe) and Dyson Heppell (Leongatha) can come in for Gippsland League finals, and there are still developments in placetotry and get a final ruling on all VFL listed players aligned with Gippsland League clubs.

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

Finals all but locked in

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

THAT’S the top five set -just about.

While mathematically, one finals spot still remains open with two rounds to go in the Gippsland League, the likelihood of there being any changes to the top five would not pass any feasibility tests.

The trading of places betweenMorwell and Wonthaggi continuedatthe weekend, although it now looks as though the Tigers are justaboutsafe andsecureasa finalslock.

Morwell needs to win justone of its last two games to make finals an absolute certainty -a task much easier than the Power, who are on the same number of points (36), but facing the top two teams in Leongatha and Moe. By contrast, the Tigers play Sale (ninth) and Bairnsdale (seventh).

Local patriotism will receive aboost should Morwell qualify, as it will mean all Latrobe Valley teams are finals bound (for the first time since 2017).

The ladder after Round 16 shows aclear numerical gap between the top six and the rest (four win separation).

Fut ure histo ria ns may look at the Gippsland League 2025 season and claim it was lopsided, however,a deeperlook roundby-round shows this is certainly not the case.

All teams have enjoyed moments of glory against more fancied opponents, most notably Drouin(10th) rollingWonthaggi and Maffra (eighth)beating reigning premier,Traralgon.

Both the Magpies and Redlegshavebattled mass unavailability at times.

McCarrey for instance has onlyplayed nine games, and missed the crucial midseason rounds when Bairnsdale needed to keep winning to stay in the hunt for finals.

No doubt there will be many at the Redlegs pondering what might have been had they had their most prominent forward.

 WARRAGUL did what was required on the road.

The Gullswon ano-thrillsmatch in Maffra, punctuated by errant finishing in front of the big sticks, 7.17 (59) to 5.8 (38).

While the visitorsled at every change, spectators hardly got their monies worth, as justthree goals were kicked in the first half combined.

It is unlikely Warragul will care in the slightest however, given the Gulls just need to keep winning to potentially pinch atop three finish and the double chance.

Lucas Carter, Liam Serong, Riley Senini, LukeGarner, PatrickMulqueen and Alby

Phillips collected the plaudits for the winners.

Warragul was without afew of its best 22, includingVFL playerWill Hayes, mercurial forward Brayden Fowler, and the Stewart boys, Jordan and Zac.

Given the Gulls have ahugeclash with Moe coming up, one can expect at least some of those names to come back in.

Best for the Eagles was AlexCarr, Jett Killoran, Andrew McKenzie, Will Burgiel, Daniel Bedggood and Noah Christy.

 JUST one more week to go.

Gannon JClark.Drouin: WBethune LLenders BEST: Leongatha: FMateria BDavidson LMarshman TRichards CWatson IFox.Drouin: WBethune FBethune LHawke BGregg CPiner TBuckingham

6Z Waixel 2CRandC Waixel HPotts.Bairnsdale: MHamilton2 W Guy BNugent- BrownRCullinan CCroftsOPike. BEST: Sale:CLavertyR Cottrell JCantwell BWalker AGerrand CRand. Bairnsdale: TSelleck HNichollsMStephenson CCook SO’Kelly

Maffra: JOldham 9W Gieschen 2JAndrews 2LHarrington

BPalmer XAdams CMackay

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Leongatha: EBerr yman 3CBickerton 2NBradley 2FDonohue AWilliams CRichards HBowler. Drouin: RBaker 6JHuston. BEST: Leongatha: AWilliams ALogan SBradley TMcKenzie FDonohue CRichards.Drouin: JHuston JWelfordJEtchell RBaker DBritt L Mcdonald MAFFR A4.4 7.8 7.9 10.13 (73)

WARR AGUL 0.2 1.2 4.3 4.6 (30)

GOALS: Maffra: Astobie 3DScott 2JMcQuillen 2JLittleJ Brickley BCottrell.Warragul: C Thompson KBoi HMar tin WMacLean BEST: Maffra: Astobie LHarrington LFelmingham A Higgins DScott JHenr y. Warragul: LMooreDBonaddio TLogan IKitteltyDHammond KBoi BAIRNSDALE 5.7 8.8 9.12 11.13 (79)

SALE1.0 3.2 6.4 7.7 (49)

GOALS: Bairnsdale: JWalker 3KFrith 3R Hargreaves2RCullinan 2MNeate.Sale: MMcMaster 2T Ronchi 2MMayman JRoads JKelly BEST: Bairnsdale: KFrith CCook BFenner MNeate DBoucher HMcGuinn. Sale: JRoads STreglown HDavine MMcMaster HHughes DFeltis

2.4 4.6 8.11 9.12 (66)

0.0 3.3 4.5 7.6

At the top end of town, things are even more cutthroat. This finals series is shaping as one of the most even in recent memory. Traralgon or Moe could make the Grand Final, but could also just as easily go out in straight sets, while Morwell (having beaten both during the regularseason) could be the team that sends either of them packing.  BAIRNSDALE won acompetitive match against Sale.

The Redlegsrecorded theirfifth win for the season, holding off the Magpies by nine points, 12.11 (83) to 11.8 (74).

Thehome sideresponded after aslowfirst half, to kick four goals to one in the third term on the wide open expanses of Bairnsdale City Oval.

Scoreswere virtually tied at the last change, before ahigh scoring final term saw 11 goals kicked between the two sides.

Bairnsdaleoutgunned Saleinside 50, kicking 6.2 (38) to 5.1 (31).

Brayden McCarreybooted five for the winners, who had eight individual goal kickers.

Others to play well were Cooper Harvey, Lachlan Cloak, Randall Stewart, Tyran Rees and Ethan East.

Jack McLaren and Tom Wrigglesworth wereagain prominentfor the Magpies, along with JarrodFreeman, JackLeslie, the promoted Ben Jones (who kicked three goals) and likely best-and-fairest winner, Cooper Whitehill.

Whitehill has enjoyed abreakout season, named in the best 12 out of 16 games.

It is perhaps unfortunate his coming-of-age has coincided with apoor season from Sale, although the Magpies have remained quietly confident it won’t be long until they are back among the top sides in the competition.

The contest at the weekend offered a glimpse into two teams who could feel hard done by this season.

Drouin edged closer and closertoits home ground,getting off Morwell Recreation Rese rve follo wing a1 00 -p oint loss to Leongatha.

The match between top and bottom went as expected, with the Parrots winning 20.8 (128) to 4.4 (28).

Muchofthe game was aboutTrafalgar local and Thorpdale Football-NetballClub best-and-fairest winner, Ben Willis, who played his 200thsenior game for Leongatha.

The loveable ruckman was given amilestone to remember,booting five goals, while histeammates and supporters wore special commemorative t-shirts.

Of his 200 games, at least 16 would be finals given the Parrots have played in the last eight deciders.

Willis has often been among the best for Leongatha in finals, and does tend to always poll well in league vote counts as well.

Aman of the people, he has also coached Leongatha junior teams, and also helped raiseawarenessfor mental health by wearing ahelmet in games.

With his career in the major league possibly nearing its end, there can be little doubt his old club on the hill have been'into him' about ahomecoming.

Others to play well in his milestone were Aaron Heppell (three goals), Tim Sauvarin, Zavier Lamers,TyHalland PatrickIreland (five goals).

Kye Quirk, Zayne Atkins, Riley Wierzbicki, Peyton Saddington, Caleb Kleevan and Zack McMillan battled hard for the Hawks.

Drouin has onemoreroad trip to go,travelling to Maffra this weekend, before ending its season on the newly laid Drouin Recreation Reserve turf for the Western Derby.

The Hawks have been training on their new oval, and the Round 18 clash is set to be every bit afinal for the wooden spooners.

Corrections

FOOTBALL

By LIAM DURKIN

IT is said coaching turns you insane.

The same can be said of journalism. In his best Rock Bottom voice, the author wishes to make the following corrections from last week's issue:  Morwell has not defeated Leongatha this season;  Scott van Dyk is the Moe cocaptain, not vice captain, and;  Oliver Gyles (Bairnsdale) kicked 12 goals against Trafalgar in 1967, certainly not 1687.

As Ihope those who haveeither covered sport or beenaclub administrator over along period of time will attest to, the seasons do feel as though they all blend into one at times. Morwell defeated Leongatha twice last year, while the chain of thought for Scott van Dyk’s demotion was co equals second; second equals vice. The wrong datewas atypo made under deadline pressure -acommon occurrence in print.

If you want an understanding of the effect print deadlines can have, these areperfect examples.

Think of it as being five points down with 30 seconds left -only that pressure extends across 12 hours.

Ironically,mistakes are the best way to find out who is reading the paper.

People are certainly quick to point them out.

Legend: Ben Willis playedhis 200th senior game forLeongatha at the weekend. Photograph supplied

Tigers fight andfightand win

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

NO guts, no glory.

Morwell completed just aboutthe mostdetermined underdogperformance imaginable at Ted Summerton Reserve,holding on to defeat Moe by two points.

Down one rotation for much of the second half, and down to one on the bench by the end of the game, the visiting Tigers won alow-scoring epic, 9.9 (63) to 8.13 (61).

The result hadinstant ramifications, with Morwell taking aquantum leap toward finals qualification, while some question marks remain for the Lions following an indifferent fortnight.

As the Tigers are playing themselves into form (four wins from their last five games), Moe seems to be flirting with theirs.

The Lions gave up eightgoals in the first quarter against Sale the previous round, and were kept goalless in the first term at the weekend.

The Lions’ poor disposal by foot wasbyfar the most telling feature, so much so injured playingcoach Leigh Poholke (sidelined with ahamstring) appeared completely dumbfounded as he watched repeat inside 50s miss targets.

Most of these misdirectedpasseswereaimed in the direction of league leading goal kicker Ben Crocker, who one couldn’t help but feel sorry for.

While he finished with four goals, he was teamed by just as many defenders for most of the day, as Morwell quickly realised Moe’s game plan was virtually ‘kick to Croc’.

Skillerrorsonthe home team’s part however were not the only reason Morwell won.

The Tigers applied enough pressure to force turnovers, and competed aerially to deny Crocker the chance to run and jump.

They did this and plenty more across four quarters on achillyMoe day that saw the wind blow (unusually) from the east.

Blokes wearing yellow and black jumpers stood up when needed, and pulled off some equally freakish deeds of their own.

Josh Galea (as he has ahabit of doing)kickedan incredible goal in thethird term, using everybit of his European heritage to soccer the ball through in mid-air while hugged up against the goal post. That goal gave Morwell adream start to the second half, andextended their leadtoahandy 16 points.

Another shortly after to club favourite Tyler Hillier pushed the lead even further, before Moe responded with consecutive goals just as the clock ticked into the 10 minute mark.

Lions youngster Max Moroney kicked his first goalinsenior colours, in somewhatunusual circumstances after being walked to the goal line. He was giventhe obligatory mob by teammates, but more importantly, saw the home side go seven points up Moewas starting to play better by now, hitting short targets by foot and generating overlap by hand.

Safeand secure: Morwell footballer,TylerHillier and Morwell Football-Netball Club President, MichaelStobbartwith theJoe Hutchison Trophy, played forbetween the Tigersand Moe. Photograph supplied

Morwellhowever keptgrinding, andwhen playing-coach Boyd Bailey booted agoal from point blank range into the net separating the fence from agroup of Moe supporters at the scoreboard end, the visitors were once again back on top.

(That goal was still probably only the secondmost satisfying Bailey has kicked at that end, his running effort in the 2013 Grand Final surely the number one).

Having scored right on the eve of three quarter time, the visitors went into their final huddle full of energy.

Observingthe two huddleswas an interesting exercise. While Morwell players were undeniably ‘buzzing’, Moe players looked collected and equally confident.

Poholke, speaking in aHarmitSingh-like manner many Morwell supporters would be familiar with, decreasing the volume so only the playerscould hear, called for better positioning from his backs.

Bailey meanwhile, perhaps sensing his players were high on adrenalin, kept it short and sweet, rattling home some key pointssuch as outnumbering at the contest and ‘taking the grass’ if anyone found themselves with the ball out in the open.

Morwell kicked the first goal of the last little more than aminutein, after Will Clarke was awarded afree kick for ahold.

The big man sent through his third goal of the afternoon, and most importantsince joiningthe Tigers fromDaylstonmidseason.(Incidentally,last Saturday was Clarke’s fourth game for the season, meaning he is now qualified for finals).

Down by 14 points, Moe’s big dogs again cut the margin back. For once, Crockerdidn’t kickthe goal, but had ahand in the assist, using his football IQ to kick backwardssome 30 metres from the pocket to find Trent Baldi in abetter position. The Lions midfielder then smartly used the stand rule to get around the man on the mark and kick truly.

The home side was however let off the hook acouple of timesafter Morwell missed at least

Bailey stepping down as coach, continuing as player

FOOTBALL

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

THREE years is about the going rate for alocal footy coach.

Morwell Football-Netball Club senior playingcoach,Boyd Bailey has informed the club he won’t be coaching next season. Bailey will however continue as aplayer.

Ateacher by profession, Bailey has work in Queensland for Term 4, and will also play in theNorthern Territory over summer.

As Bailey explained, while he will be back in time for the Gippsland League 2026 season, it would not be fair on the playing group to have him coaching from afar during preseason.

“It was going to be too hard to be able to do both. If you’re not present with them for that preseason period (it’s not workable). Ithink was the main thing,” he said of his decision to stand down.

“I’m certainly not feeling burnt out, Ifeel like Icould go again, it’sjust hard with the distance.

“I’ve loved it, think I’ve learnt alot over the last three years.”

Bailey looks set to coach the Tigersinto finals this season, and said whoever takes over will have aquality list at their disposal.

“A group that loves hard work and hopefully they can continue to get good results,” he said.

There is set to be afew coaching changes across the league, as ahost of coaches have

two very gettable shots from within close range.

Some heart-in-mouth moments played out in apulsatingfinalterm, as Moekept coming and Morwell reached astage where they just had to hold on.

Through sheer weight of numbers, the Lions somehow surgedagoal froma ballupafter the ball fell to Moroney, who poked through his second.

What agame to kick your first two senior goals.

With the margin suddenly just three points, there was an undeniable feeling the next goal would just about determine the winner given the context of the match.

The Lions would have hit the front if the post didn’t get in the way at the 20 minute mark, and the resultant kick-in very nearly saw Morwell get the golden goal they themselves were after.

The Tigers went coast-to-coast,and ended witha mark inside 50. The shot howeveronly registereda minor score, handing the ball back to the home side.

Moe peppered the inside 50s during red time, but could not break the Morwell shackle as the Tigers packed most stoppages to kill the game.

Some crucial one-on-one wins proved vital for the visitors, not least Cody Macdonald winning a groundballbattle against Moe’s Tom Matthews, and Brandon Mcaullife nabbing Lions veteran JacobWood, which would have resulted in acertain look inside 50.

Matthews,the Gippsland Power captain, played managed minutes at the weekend, and was rested in the first half.

For all of Clarke’s work up forward, he took the game saving mark dropping back in the hole 30 metres out from Moe’s goal.

Equal feelings of relief and elation were evident on the faces of Morwell players as the final siren sounded.

Finalsaside,thereisnobetter feeling than walking into the visitors rooms after an underdog victory.

The walk to the respective rooms was halted somewhat after the game after abit of push and shove broke out.

Umpires came in to quell tensions, which (on the vision at least) lasted not even aminute.

Whilethere wassome sarcasticpats on the head exchanged, theredidn’t appear to be anything overly untoward.

Given most Morwell and Moe players know each other through work, social connections, and some are even family, there was always likely to be displays of one-upmanship.

For want of abetter explanation, competitive blokes in their 20s, plus testosterone, plus alocal rivalry meant some argy-bargy was inevitable.

In better scenes, Moe co-captain Scott van Dyk was embraced by former teammate Darnell Grech (who hashad stints with both clubs) comingout fromthe Morwell bench postgametocongratulate him on his 150th game

Van Dykwas best for theLions, and washelped by fellow co-captain Brock Smith, Crocker, Max Woodall, Baldi and Nathan Scagliarini.

Scagliariniwill havesome connection to Moe's next opponent, Warragul, having skippered former Gullsruckman Chris Carey to apremiershipatMt Eliza last season.

The Lionscertainlywon’t be taking Warragul lightly given the Gulls can still finish with the double chance.

Moe doesn’t have agreat record against Warragul at Western Park either, losing twice in its last three visits to the venue.

It is unlikely the senior coach will be rocking up to Western Park wearing thongs either.

the match against Salethe previousweek.Moe officials will be hoping any bug that mightbegoing around hasn’t spread too far in the camp. To the victorswent the spoils however, and Morwell’sbest playersatthe weekend were Stephen Mills, Mcaullife, Harri McColl, Macdonald, Zac Anderson and Anthony Rosato.

Bailey credited his side’s performance, especially given the outs in key defender Max Linton, midfielders Cohen Campbell and Burkeley Macfarlane, not to mentionleading goal kicker,Brandon McDonald, who has unfortunately had to retire due to repeat concussions.

“They are the positions you want to be in, as heart-racing as they are, to hold onto one, we’ve been on the other side of them as well, to hold onto one late hopefully gives the boys plenty of confidence,” the coach said.

“You just havetoroll withthe punches. Itold the boys to be adaptable throughout the game, not knowing where afew of the Moe boys might line up, we were able to do that.”

“We came in with aplan, executed it for pretty much the four quarters, Moe got alittlebit of momentum throughout the day during the second andthird,but three quarter time we just needed to gut it out and show abit of determination and grit, the boys did it.

“(It was a) physical game, felt it was somewhat finals intensity. Moehad afew out today so they’ll get acouple back but for us, we just had to win whoever we played against today.”

The return of Nathan Noblett up forward has been welcomed by Morwell, after he missed the first half of the season through injury.

“He’s abit of alink man for us between the arcs, he hits up, he’s quick, and he’s what we’ve maybe been missing for most of the season,” Bailey said, while also highlighting the work those at the other end did on Crocker.

“He’s (Crocker) aquality player so you’ve got to go to whatever lengths you need to try to stop him kicking goals. He has been afocal point for Moe, I thought our backs were great today.”

Upon the elation of victory, Bailey said there was still plenty of work to do.

“It was more-so just how important that win was for our season rather than who it was against,” he said.

“We felt if we were to get this one today, it was a massive step to playing finals We’ve got destiny back in our hands with Wonny losing, so ball's in our court, we’ve just got to get the job done next two weeks.”

Morwell’s form has been solid in recent weeks, and minus alastquarter fadeout against Leongatha in Round 14, the Tigershave arguably put together 11 out of 12 really good quarters.

“The boys have responded really well since that Warragulloss (Round 11) and hopefully we can just keep building something special amongst the group,” Bailey said.

“One of our strengths is we’ve just got an even spreadacross the ground. We’re pretty low on points (player points allocation), the boys get on really well on and off the field, so maybe that gives you an extra five per cent some games.”

This may bode well for Morwell come September, as local footy buffs will know as well as anyone history is littered with big recruits on big money who often go missing in finals. The Tigers seemingly won’t have this problem, although it shouldalsobe notedMoe onlyhad five players on multiple points at the weekend - two of whom were juniors.

reached what is generally considered the maximum timeframe of three to five years in the top job.

Former Victorian Premier, Jeff Kennett has always maintained someone in aposition of leadership should serve between six and nine years.

Jack Johnstone will be finishing up with Sale after five years, while it is understood Jed Lamb will be handing over the reins at Warragul after three.

There will be little surprise if Jarryd Blair calls it aday after five seasons at Wonthaggi, nor Anthony Robbins after four with Maffra.

TheEagles’ supposed next coach has entered ‘worst kept secret’ territory in local footy.

One coach not going anywhere is Leigh Poholke, who signed on for asecond season with Moe earlier this year.

For the playing-coaches (Bailey, Blair and Johnstone) some interest will surround if their on-field performancesriseonce they are released from the coaching shackles.

While leadership is undoubtedly rewarding, it can also become aburden.

The great Sachin Tendulkar won just four of his 25 Tests as India’s captain, and just 23 out of 72 One Day Internationals.

One only has to look at JoeRoot’srecord since giving up the England Testcaptaincy to seehow much the runs have flowed.

Even in journalism, there is no question Iwas writing better stories when Iwasn’t the editor.

The Lions willhope to have gun midfielder Myles Poholke back, after he was bedridden with illness at the weekend.

Illness also left MattHeywood unavailable for

While it is understood there has been some internal frustration at times over Morwell’s frugal management not opening the chequebook to any major imports,the Tigers now look set to see gains after investing in the local market.

MID GIPPSLAND

Will it be Mirboo Nth or Boolarra in finals?

FOOTBALL

MID GIPPSLAND BY ROB POPPLESTONE

AFTER alongpreseasonand fourmonthsof competitive football, it came down to afortnight that would determine the immediate futureofmore than halfofthe Mid Gippsland Football-Netball League clubs.

The excitement,the pressure and the privilege of finals is now just afortnight away and from there everyone knows that anything can happen.

 FISH CREEK VMDU

APREVIEW to apotential finals clash in just afew weeks, this was tipped to be somewhat of achess match in Round 17.Both teams had already locked away atop six spot, so it was considered to be amatch where the learnings might just be as important as the result.

Fish Creek were comfortable winners over MeenyianDumbalk United, 13.14 (92) to 7.5 (47) at Terrill Park.

The reigning premiers of 2023 and 2024 well placed and on track for their quest for athird premiership in arow.

Kangaro os coach Jarrad Walker was pleased with the results.

“A real grind against MDU, scores even at half time it was on aknife’s edge," he said.

"MDU were scoring almostevery time they wentinside 50 so after halftimewetightened afew things up, our midfield started to get on top and some better entries intoour forward line.

JGarlick NMcCaffer ty MRober tson SPattenKElphick.Newborough: MRowlingsESheekey PFrendo DQuine JStephens NTunks

GOALS: Meeniyan Dumbalk Utd: LWright5 THarris2 KHelms 2JBrydon LHarrisBCantwell BMar tin.Fish Creek:OBright 2JStandfieldRStaleyMPocklington. BEST: Meeniyan Dumbalk Utd: LWrightB Cantwell KHelms LHarrisM Smith THarris. Fish Creek:JAnderson OStrawT Sorrell JStandfieldJ Harr yLEdgelow FOSTER3.3 4.3 8.8

Foster:B Angwin 3NGundrill 2T Daldy MHouse JDavyALacanaria. Mirboo Nth: N Jackson THeislers TMcDuffieT Williams PAveling JRawlings. BEST: Foster:ALacanaria JGay JDavyC Garlick WRoffey BAngwin. Mirboo Nth: JRawlingsJHutton TMcDuffieT Williams TMcAllister TBasarke

Toora: MGlowrey 4RBarlow4ARhodes3 TCrawford3

AMcInnes

2B Taylor 2B Sellings EKratz ABruce. Fish Creek:H Brewer 2LMoon2 BEST: MDU: THibberson LDuvoisin ACasey BTaylorBSmith A McInnes.Fish Creek:BBoydO Bright WEdgelow BThomson MThomson SRodda

WBOROUGH 2.6 6.12 12.15 16.16 (112)

0.0 1.0 1.0 1.2 (8)

Newborough: OHanson4S Kippen 2B Young 2A Daley HDunstan ZDaley M Langdon BRead TMcCabe TMcCaffer ty RKunziak. Yinnar:XMcCaffer ty BEST: Newborough: SKippen ADaley MBrosnan TMcCaffer ty CHansonZDaley.Yinnar:B Beecher PMills KRoss TTry GRyanBRansom

TARWIN 4.2 5.4 7.4 8.6 (54)

MIRBOO NTH 0.1 2.4 4.5 7.6 (48)

GOALS: Tarwin: LJones 2HGuymer JCameron KGow ELangstaff JAndronacoAFrancis Mirboo Nth: CCrutchfield 4GRutjens SBerquez NJackson. BEST: Tarwin: ICameron A Francis CMalliaE Bruning JAndronacoHGuymer.Mirboo Nth: CCrutchfield ZJones LPoljak NJackson CMalady SBerquez LA DDER

"Really happy over the last month with our pressure and intensity for four quarters.”

The key for Fish Creek in many ways is just to be ahealthy group as they hit finals, and every club wants the same.

But the weekend also showed Demons coach Rhett Kelly thatthey still need to find something alittle extra if they were to meet Fish Creek again.

“Another great winters day for footy. The first half was solid, with both teams really going hard at it," Kelly said.

"I thoughtour pressure was really good. It looked like it would be atight game, but Fishy took it to another level after the halftime break, and we just couldn't match them, which was abit disappointing.

"They definitely showed why they're one of the top teams in the competition.

"As disappointing as the weekends result was, we won't let just one-half of footy dictate our next game or our finals run, so we learn and move on quickly.”

 HILLEND VSTONY CREEK

WITH wins hard to come by for both clubs throughout the season, Hill End and Stony Creek approached the weekend believing the victory was theirs to grab.

The Rovers on their home deck with two wins from theirpast three matcheswere slightly favoured against aLions team that had come close to awin more than ahandful of times only to time and time again fall agonisingly short.

However, the visitors did what they have rarely done this season, flexing their muscle and showing what they indeed are capable of, winning 21.11 (137) to 9.9 (63) at Willow Grove Recreation Reserve.

Stony Creek coach Troy Shepardson was pleased with his side's efforts.

“Great for the our Boys today to play four quarters of the footy, Iknow we are capable of playing, and to get back on the winners list,” he said.

The Lions have shown patches of what they are capableofthroughout the season, but thesemoments have only kept in them in games ratherthan have them winningthem

The Rovers in many ways have been much the same, their core group of experienced and talented players, surrounded by ayoung group who will take time to reach the level required to add to their rare wins this year.

This was reiteratedbycoach AdrianBurns.

"Having ayoung group, along season, it allmeans you will have results like we did on the weekend, every week I’ve felt the boys have given their best, and it all helps, win or lose, theirdevelopmentfor the season ahead,” he said.

Hill End, like their weekend opponents in the Lions, have won far less games than they would have liked, but every weekend, the opposition teams also respect that they will have afight on their hands.

MIRBOO NORTH VFOSTER



MIRBOO North faced perhaps the biggest

challenge in MGFNL football right now, welcoming the inform and top of the table Foster.

For Foster, it was achancetofinetune their already impressive game style on their way to aall important first final in a fortnight, for the home team however it was allabout trying to find away to win, in any way possible. In the end it proved to be abridge too far for the home team Tigers, taken out 14.15 (99) to 2.6 (18) at Mirboo North Recreation Reserve.

Foster coach Sam Davies praised his winning side.

“Good day for the club at Mirboo Northgreat to see our reserves get another win for theseason," he said.

"We did enough in our game, strong wind going to one end meant it was hard kicking up the hill and we missed alot of chances we’d normally take.

"Our defensive structures are in great shape which is abig positive going into the pointy end of the year."

On the other hand, Mirboo Northcoach Damian Turnerunderstands there is still some work to be done, just to be part of finals.

“Tough day against apolished Foster. The Wind wasupearlyand my boys startedwell, but, Foster asserted themselves in the second andshowedwhy they sit on topofthe ladder," he said.

"Poorskills and decisions let us down, and letFosterinto the contest more often then we would have liked. But now we move on quick.”

The “quick", being the very last round of the homeand away season where the Tigers meetBoolarra, another teamteam precariously placed around the top six, both of whom realise only awin will present the chance for finals.

 THORPDALE VTOORA

THEBlues hostedatalented Toora, understanding that anything short of avictory could severely compromise their chances of participating in the upcoming finals.

The Magpies in what would be their last gameofthe year (given they have abye next week) did what they could to throw the home sidesseason off track,but ultimately falling short 11.8 (74) to 6.15 (51).

Thorpdale coach DanielTaylor praised a necessary performance.

“Glad to get the win and cement aspotin the top six which has been an aim of ours since the pre season," he said.

"Tricky conditions with the windsoit wasn'tthe best spectacle but Iwas happy enough with how we played.

"Toora started well and probably let us off the hook early with some inaccurate kicking but after quarter time Ifelt we were in control for the rest of the game.”

The win by the Blues, was awelcome one, Thorpdale now with afull focusonbeing ready for the finals.

For Toora coach Jay Acardi, it's now all about 2026.

“We came up againstadeterminedThorpy who were up and about on their home deck. The two 25s went hard at through the midfieldwhich wasgreat to watch, unfortunately we fell away and couldn’t go with them when it counted," he said.

"Good luck to Thorpdale and the rest of the teams heading into finals, it should be agreat end to theseason.”

Afteraslowstart Toora on field, they started to matchtheir effortsoff field, the Magpies shaking the trees of some good teams.

 YINNAR VNEWBOROUGH

YINNAR'Slasthome game of the season offered up acouple of possibilities. It was achancefor areturn to form before the all important finals series started, and also an opportunity to kill off the faint hopes that Newborough held of securing atop six position.

In the end, the Magpies achieved what they needed to do, acomfortable 18.10 (118) to 4.4 (28) victory at Yinnar Recreation Reserve.

Sam McCulloch was all smiles on the day.

“Was greattoa win on the board after a few losses, and afew weeks off in the last month," he said.

"Very pleasing four quarter performance. Even though we came in at quarter time behind on the scoreboard, we could really feel our brand was gradually gaining momentum

"So to come out in the second quarter and put the score on the board, then go on with it was pleasing.

"Evencontribution from the 21 and was just what we needed after the week off.” Yinnar indicated that the premiership is far from a two horse race (Foster and Fish Creek), and their weekend opponents got to see that first hand.

Newboroughcoach Pat Frendo was less happy.

“Tough day at the office on the weekend, playing Yinnar on their home deck coming into finals is never an easy task and they proved they’re ready to be there at the end again," he said.

"Started off really well, leading at quarter time, but Yinnar quickly stamped their dominance on the game and turned things around.

"Our lackofrotations certainly didn’t as we foundourselves being run off our legs.

Credit to Yinnar, well drilled, fit and fast.”

The loss killsoff any chance of finals hopes for the Bulldogs, in aseasonwhere the football godsjust were not as kindas they might have been to them, injuries had them on the back foot for most of the year. But,ithas also helpedbuild aresilience that will make them atougher proposition in 2026.

 BYE: Boolarra, Morwell East, and Tarwin.

Leader: Mirboo Nor th coach, Damien Turner faces ado-or-die match withBoolarra this weekend to determine which side plays finals.Turnerhas re-signed with the Tigers as coach fornextseason.

Photograph: Annie Holland

Six into fivewon’t go

NETBALL

By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

IN aLatrobe Valley showdown in which both side sit top three on the ladder, Moe took the game when it matter,61to49atTed SummertonReserve that headlined Round 16 of the Gippsland League. The Tigers opened out the gate well, leading at the end of the first quarter by two goals.

The duel reigning premier Lions thenresponded with an emphatic 18-6 run through to halftime, leading by double digits at the main break.

Morwell dipped into their deficit momentarily as playresumedinthe thirdterm, but Moe answered back to finish strongly.

Olivia Barnett continues to be dominant in defence, followed by Georgia Moody and Charlize Bird.

Ashlea Mawer poured in 43 goals for the Lions.

Hayley String er, Tanya Budge, and Holly Stephens (36 goals) were amongst the bestfor the Tigers.

Stephens recently claimed runners-up best and fairest for the Championship-level in the Victorian Netball League, for which she plays for Casey. Traralgon picked up awelcome victory late into the season, defeating Wonthaggi 64-43 at Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve.

After holding afour-goal lead at halftime, the

FOOTBALL AFLWEXPORTS

BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

SEASON nine of AFLW gets underway tomorrow when traditional rivals Carlton and Collingwood play off in the Round 1opener at IKON Park on Thursday night.

Anticipated numberone draft pick, Seaspray’s Ash Centra will feature at the forefront for the Magpies as they push rebound from awooden spoon finish in 2024.

The former Gippsland Power captain will be one of

Maroons took it up agear and ran home with a 35-18 second half.

Despite being out of the finals race for anumber of weeks now, the young side is still remaining competitive into the final stretch of the home-andaway season

Bronwyn Tebb and Indiana de Dios were best for Traralgon, while the scoring punch came from Emma White (43 goals) and Sophie Lecchino (20).

Other results included Drouin and Leongatha drawing, 49-all at Morwell Recreation Reserve, Warragul smashing Maffra, 86-24 at Maffra Recreation Reserve, and Bairnsdale picking up aneeded win over Sale, 65-45 at Bairnsdale City Oval.

 YINNAR got back on track with a57-41 dismantling of Newborough at Yinnar Recreation Reserve in Round 17 of Mid Gippsland FootballNetball League.

The win gives the Magpies separation between the clump of teams making up the rest of the top six, with Yinnar sitting clear third on the ladder.

Toora easily pastedThorpdale, 70-24atThorpdale Recreation Reserve to keep themselves in the mix with Meenyian Dumbalk United and Mirboo North -all on 10 wins for the year.

MirbooNorth lost to Foster(who sit top of the ladder), 72-45 at Mirboo North Recreation Reserve, while MDU fell to Fish Creek (second), 41-40 at Terrill Park.

Stony Creek also defeatedHill End, 43-29 at Stony Creek Recreation Area, leaving them two games back of the pack.

As it currentlystands,the top threeinboth football and netballinMid Gippsland is placed exactly the same.

Morwell East, Tarwin,and Boolarra had the bye.  FIVE spots, but six teams still in the hunt.

North GippslandFNL will takeuntil the very lastround to determinethe orderofthe finalsrace, after Round 17 added more flair to the season.

Gormandalepickedupanecessary win over Glengarry, 57-37 at Glengarry Recreation Reserve, shooting them into second on the ladder.

Despite Sale City returning to form with aonegoaldefeat of Traralgon Tyers UnitedatTyers Recreation Reserve, the Bulldogs currently have to make do with third spot at the moment.

Woodside handled Yallourn Yallourn North, 64-33 at Woodside Recreation Reserve to keep them in fourth.

Heyfield easily surpassedCowwarr,66-23 at Gordon Street Reserve to keep themselves in the hunt for fifth, just behind TTU.

In defeating Glengarry this weekend in the final round, the Kangaroos will have the opportunity to leapfrog the Bombers if they lose to YYN.

Churchill defeated Rosedale, 48-35 to hold on to first on the ladder.

Netball scoreboard

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE -ROUND 16

AGRADE: Traralgon 64 def Wonthaggi 43, Bairnsdale 65 def Sale 45, Warragul 86 def Maffra24, Moe61def Morwell 49, Drouin 49 drew Leongatha 49.

BGRADE: Wonthaggi 51 def Traralgon 31, Bairnsdale 46 def Sale 45, Warragul 69 def Maffra39, Moe66def Morwell 42, Leongatha 55 def Drouin 33. CGRADE: Wonthaggi 44 def Traralgon 25, Bairnsdale 46 def Sale 19,Maffra34 def Warragul 32, Morwell 43 def Moe 26, Leongatha 36 def Drouin 35. 17 AND UNDER: Traralgon 75 def Wonthaggi 17,Bairnsdale 52def Sale 42, Warragul 38 drew Maffra 38, Moe 42def Morwell 20, Drouin 36 def Leongatha 29. 15 AND UNDER: Traralgon 80 def Wonthaggi 6, Sale 28 drew Bairnsdale 28, Warragul 65 def Maffra24, Moe 43 def Morwell 9, Leongatha 39 def Drouin 35 13 ANDUNDER: Traralgon 43 def Wonthaggi24, Sale 30 defBairnsdale 21, Maffra49def Warragul 11,Moe 34 def Morwell 16,Leongatha 39 def Drouin 25.

manyLatrobe Valley and wider Gippslandexports launching themselves in the 2025 AFLW season.

In her sophomore season, Traralgon’s Amber Schutte will be hoping Collingwood see better results this year round.

The speedy half backermanaged ninegames in herdebutseason,and will be out for further improvement in adeveloping side.

Both Centra and Schutte returned to the region recently as guest speakers alongside fellow Collingwood drafteeGeorgia Knightatthe now annualFemale Football Gippsland’s Gather Round, hosted in Yinnar last June.

Just aweek out from the season opener, the Magpies pickedupasecond Traralgon export, with Lily-Rose Williamson added to Collingwood’s list as areplacement player aftermidfielder Mattea Breed was put on the inactive list for 2025.

Williamson joined the Magpies’ VFLW side this year after three seasons spentonEssendon’s AFLW list, but only mounted eight gamesduring her time at the Bombers.

Selected to the VFLW’sinaugural state team, Williamson has already been busy at work donning the ‘Big V’ back in April.

Season eight: Traralgon’s DarcyGuttridge will be aiminghigh with St Kilda afterregistering her most games playedinaseason last year

Photosupplied

CJ returns for Hawks Locals set for AFLWseason

FOOTBALL

AFL EXPORTS BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

PRESSURE is beginning to mount for clubs as the final two rounds commencewhich will conclude the 2025 AFL home-and-away season.

After spendinga majority of the season on top of the ladder and the clear favourite to win the premiership,Collingwood succumbed again in Round22, thistimeto Hawthorn on Thursday night by 10 goals.

Taken 17.8 (110) to 6.10 (46) at the MCG, losingfour of their lastfive games has dropped the Magpies into third.

Acompetitive first quarter was all there was,asthe Hawks went into halftime up near 40 points, and it only got worse and worse as the game went on.

Returning after afew weeks in the VFL, Morwell’s Changkuoth Jiathadded12 disposals and three tackles for Hawthorn.

Traralgon’sTim Membrey was kept quiet for Collingwood with seven touches and a goal.

Gold Coast kept themselves above water with a13.15(93)to11.8 (74) defeatof Carlton at MarvelStadium on Saturday night.

Moe’s Bailey Humphrey had 14 disposals and two clearances, while Morwell’s Ben Ainsworth had 12 touches and agoal.

Fish Creek’s and former Moe junior Sam Flanders was omitted for MalcomRosas after playing18games thus farthis season. It’s appearing more and more likely that the Suns will play finals for the first time in theclub’s history.

Gold Coast,insixth,are on the same amount of points as Hawthorn and GWS below them, while Western Bulldogs are agame behind and justoutside of the top eight.

Foster’s Yasmin Duursma will be eyeing an improved year in what is her third season overall and second with Carlton.

The sister of AFL pair Xavier (Essendon) and Zane (North Melbourne),and current Gippsland Power star Willem,has played 14 games across twoclubs in herthree years in the system with the Blues and firstly Port Adelaide.

Duursma mounted just three matches last year for Carlton, and will be hoping for further opportunity despite abusy off-season for the club with 19 list changes.

The Blues won just fourgamesin2024, finishing 14th on the ladder.

Hawthorn will do battle against Brisbane on SundayatBrighton Homes Arena, Ipswichwith Morwell’s Casey Sherriff on notice.

The 2022 AFLW premie rship pla ye rw ith Melbourne made the move to the Hawks last

Redemption: Hawthornare pushing fora bounce backseason aftergoingout in straight sets in last year’s AFLWfinals.Morwell’sCasey Sherriff(pictured right, wearing armguard) featured in theclub’smaiden post-season run. File photograph

year where she managed nine games during an injury-interrupted season.

Sherrifffeatured in Hawthorn’s first AFLW finals appearance, in whichthey went out in straight sets (including an agonising one-point loss in the semi final against Port Adelaide) despite the Hawks finishing second on the ladder.

Sherriff’s AFLW career was spawned somewhat sensationally, after beingofferedalist spot as a replacement player whenMelbourne champion Daisy Pearce missed the 2019, before tasting success alongside her three years later.

Another two Gippsland exports featured in the Demons breakthrough flag, with Cora Lynn’s and currentMelbourne vice-captain Tyla Hanks and Bairnsdale’s Megan Fitzsimon still playing for the club whotakeonWestern Bulldogs this Saturday night.

St KildahostAdelaide CrowsonSundayafternoon at RSEA Park, Moorabbin with Traralgon’s Darcy Guttridge afocal partofthe Saints chances in 2025

After two seasons with Collingwood from 2018 to 2019, Guttridge became an inaugural player when St Kildaentered the competition in 2020.

The 54-gamer averagesabout half agoalper gameand appeared in acareer-high 11 matchesin 2024, where the Saints finished 11th on the ladder

Other Gippsland exports include Warragul pair Jasmine Ferguson and Jasmine Sowden.

Ferg uso np laye dh er 50th gam ei nN orth Melbourne’s maiden AFLW premiership last year in her third season.

Sowden was the second Gippsland Power player taken in the 2024 AFLW Draft, behind Centra, taken by Port Adelaide at pick 52.

The small forward averaged 20.7disposals, six tackles and agoal per game during her final year over under 18s.

The Power take on Fremantle at Alberton Oval, Adelaide in the lastmatch of the round on Sunday, while NorthMelbourne play GeelongonSaturday afternoon at GMHBA Stadium

The 2025 AFLW season is the fourth year featuring all 18 clubs participating in the top women’s football competition

Local footy: Pages21-28

MID GIPPSLAND -ROUND 17

AGRADE: Yinnar 57 def Newborough 41, Foster 72 def Mirboo Nor th 45, Toora70 def Thorpdale 24, StonyCreek 53 def Hill End 29, Fish Creek 41 def MDU 40, Tarwin, Morwell East, Boolarra-BYE.

BGRADE: Foster 59 def Mirboo Nor th 44, Yinnar 36 def Newborough 33, StonyCreek 55 def Hill End 33, Fish Creek 52 def MDU 29, Toora68def Thorpdale 20, Tarwin, Morwell East, Boolarra-BYE.

CGRADE: Yinnar 31 def Newborough 29, Foster 38 def Mirboo Nor th, StonyCreek 30 drew Hill End 30, Fish Creek32def MDU27, Toora66def Thorpdale 10,Tarwin, Morwell East, Boolarra- BYE.

DGRADE: Fish Creek 33 def MDU 31, Mirboo North35def Foster 14,Stony Creek 29 def Hill End 28,Toora68def Thorpdale 6, Yinnar 33 def Newborough 16,Tarwin, Morwell East, Boolarra-BYE. 17 ANDUNDER: Hill End 43 def Stony Creek 32, Mirboo Nor th 40 def Foster 11, MDU 58 def Fish Creek 27,Yinnar 54 def Newborough 14,Tarwin, Morwell East, Boolarra, Toora-BYE.

15 AND UNDER: Hill End 38 def Stony Creek 13,Mirboo Nor th 32 def Foster 27, MDU 34 def Fish Creek 14,YinnaR 42 def Newborough 24, Tarwin, Morwell East, Boolarra, Toora-BYE. 13 AND UNDER: StonyCreek 30 def Hill End 8, Yinnar 36 def Newborough 19,MirbooNor th 24 def Foster 23, Fish Creek 44 def MDU 3, Tarwin, Morwell East, Boolarra, Toora-BYE.

NORTH GIPPSLAND -ROUND 17

AGRADE: Churchill 48 def Rosedale 35, Heyfield 66 def Cowwarr 23, Woodside 64 def YYN 33, Gormandale 57 def Glengarry 37,Sale City40def TTU39.

BGRADE: Gormandale 45 def Glengarry 56, Heyfield 68 def Cowwarr 27,Woodside 67 def YYN 43, Rosedale 55 def Churchill 35, Sale City48def TTU38, Yarram -BYE.

CGRADE: TTU 34 def Sale City28, Rosedale 34 def Churchill 24, Heyfield 59 def Cowwarr 20, Woodside 36 def YYN 30, Glengarry36def Gormandale 33, Yarram -BYE.

DGRADE: Churchill 48def Rosedale 36, Gormandale 39def Glengarry26, Heyfield 44 def Cowwarr 17,Woodside36def YYN 31, Sale City43def TTU 23, Yarram -BYE. 17 AND UNDER: Sale City25def TTU 24, Rosedale 57 def Churchill 19,Glengarry 33 def Gormandale 18,Woodside 47 def YYN 12,Heyfield 56 def Cowwarr 4, Yarram -BYE.

15 ANDUNDER: Sale City42def TTU 41, Woodside 34 def YYN 15,Heyfield57def Cowwarr 12,Rosedale 56 def Churchill 18,Glengarry55def Gormandale 15, Yarram -BYE.

The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 13 August, 2025 —Page 25

NORTH GIPPSLAND

SENIORS

One spot is still up for grabs

FOOTBALL NORTH GIPPSLAND

BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

UPON resultsinRound 17, it appears as thoughNorth Gippsland willstillsee plenty of attention as sides tussling for finals spots and placements on the ladder continuetogo down to the wire.

At the weekend, it was never about large margins, but all aboutgetting througha necessary period which will either set up a team’sfinalsrun or buildthemselves into the last round and into next year.

 WOODSIDE doing Woodside things.

Despite the effort of amotivated Yallourn YallournNorth outfit, the Wildcatscouldn’t be helddown for too longa period, ultimately coming out on top, 9.12 (66) to 8.7 (55) at Woodside Recreation Reserve.

Each side had adrive for astrongperformanceinthe penultimate round, with Woodside holding firm alongside Heyfield and just behind Traralgon Tyers United, while YYN are fighting against Rosedale and Sale City for one of the final two spots in the top five.

Conditions couldn’t have been better and Woodside’s Josh Morgan releasedthe scoring valve with asnap from north of 30 metres deadinfront, as the Wildcats dominated theforward 50 entries with eight scoring shots to three.

The Jets still managed to start off with some momentum as Dylan Brooks and YYN playing-coach DeanMacDonald produced back-to-back goals to see them in front early.

After afew misses for the Wildcats, YYN appeared to be out, but amarking infringement free kick saw Brody Stainer given his first just 15 metres out and then a50-metre penalty gave another for Woodside past the 30-minute mark.

Adam Janssen,Morgan, RowanMissen, Stainerand Ashton Janssen.

Dylan Bath, Rowan Duguid, Campbell MacInnes, Darcy Shellcot,Hayden Mowat andJai Masseseplayed well for YYN.

The Jets now potentially enter ado-or-die showdown againstTTU at home (George Bates Reserve) to clinch afinals berth.

 AVOIDING alate scare, Heyfield welcomed the win.

Cowwarr produced asurprise performance againstone of the best sides of 2025, but the Kangaroos ultimatelyendedupontop,11.13 (79) to 10.5 (65) at Gordon Street Reserve.

Glengarry: LNoble 7ZChristensen 2R Turner 2DOates

LDwyer Cowwarr:KJennings 2MRobinson CMitchell BEST Heyfield: BMansonJParker MAustin ABrooker L DwyerMCox.Cowwarr:KJenningsT Armstrong TDonoghue JWall CBass RO’Donnell

ALangstaff HYoung JVardy.Gormandale: BNicholls2B Wilson Jwarren THall BEST: Glengarry: JVardy FBlizzardCPoulton A Hawkins RConway CWhitehead.Gormandale: BNicholls BWilson JCochraneTDuncan LWoolan LRichards

(25)

Churchill: DTobin 6ANorman 2W Towers 2KCaldwell 2S Robinson. Rosedale: JCampbell R Dickson HLeech BEST Churchill:DFehlbergD Tobin WTowers JThomasRBergJ Williams.Rosedale: H Leech CO’Brien JMurray RDortmans JRiddle WOODSIDE 6.3

The home ground advantage played out in the opening stand, as the Wildcats opened up by 10 points at quarter time.

Despite Woodside breaking free slightly, the contestwas stillabattle and that continued into the second term.

The Wildcats did nail the first punch of the quarter through a40-metre live play goal from Joh Fythe and then instantly got another from Matt Dyke.

With the margin ballooned out to 22 points early, YYN responded through agreat grab and an equally beautiful finish deep in the pocket from Dylan Keyhoe.

Afew more opportunitiesinthe Jets' forwardlineincreased the pressure on Woodside, and YYN pressed as acostly turnover from the Wildcats in their defensive 50 handed the ball to MacDonald who played on and goaled checkside from the opposite angle.

Another Jets majorcame shortly after through MacDonald again, who through the first 40 minutes of the game had three goals already.

Back to athree-point margin, the Jets hit the frontthrough BarrieBurnett,giving added confidence to YYN, who reversed their fortunes in very quick time.

Woodside found Stainer late in the first half, goaling to give the Wildcats a6.6 (42) to 6.3 (39) lead at the main break.

Both sides were running and gunning as play resumed, only as the defences tightened and scoringwasn’t coming,each beganto slow down possession when they could.

Such was the intensity either way that no major score was seen through the first19 minutes of the third quarter, before Stainer got out in front of YYN’s Owen Budge for the first of the last half.

Only two goals were kicked in the third term, with MacDonald gettinganother for the Jets, working through four opponents to snap truly closer to home.

As the final quarter arrived with the Wildcats ahead by four points, any minute detail could see clear differencesand serious ramifications.

Within two minutes, YYN’s Blake Dyson ran throughacontest and let out afine checkside to give the Jets the lead.

Afew opportunitiespresented themselves for YYN shortlyafter that, but Woodside managed to pinch one back through who else but Stainer for his fourth goal.

Just before the Wildcats took back the lead, veteran Michael Stockdale opened up as a spare, sittinginbetween MacDonald down deep and the rest of the Jets forwards, which created headaches for the visitors.

Matt Dyke arrived for hissecond,as Woodside went ahead by seven points.

While the Wildcats had plenty more behinds before the finalsiren rang, YYN had their chances, but ultimately, their entries worked to no avail.

Dyke earnt abest-on-ground after abrilliant last quarter for Woodside, followed by

Agoalfest, especially in the first quarter, had both sides up for the day with nine goals in the opening stand.

While Heyfieldbegan with three of the first four majors going their way, the Saints replied (or should Isay Keenan Hughes) with three of the next five.

Cowwarr’s Hughes trailed the Kangaroos, 5.5 (35) to four goals straight at quarter time.

Other Saints began to support their star player, with Ben Coffey and Haydn Hector getting on the scoreboard, as Cowwarr brought the margin within agoal throughout the second term.

Alateone from Heyfield’s MitchellBennett gave the Kangaroos a15-point halftime lead.

Goal scoring began to drop as play resumed in the second half, but the Saints made the most of their opportunities to creep back to within two goalsunanswered, trailingby just two points.

Sensingthat they weren’t playingsome third rateside,who despitebeing eliminated from finals contention weeks prior, the Saints were still up for the fight.

Heyfield worked hard from the end of the third quarter into the beginning of the last to lead by 17 points.

Hughes banged home another for the Saints at the 13-minute mark to bring it back to 10 points however, the Kangaroos managedtwo goals quickly in advanceto create the separation to see out the game.

The win for Heyfield keeps them alongside Woodside and agame back of TTU for first on the ladder.

CalebRonan, Tom Marchesi, KailHole, Kodie Woodland,Robert McMillan and Jack Christian were recognised for the Kangaroos.

Hughes with astandout six goals produced the individual performance of the round, with Hector, Coffey, Tom Armstrong, Tim Johnston and Braden Paulet making up the rest of Cowwarr’s best.

 UNDENIABLE at this point.

Despite an early firm contest, TTU rolled past Sale City, 13.16 (94) to 6.5 (41) at Tyers Recreation Reserve, as the Bombers look set to clinch the minor premiership this weekend, dependant on results.

The Bulldogs, who are eyeing alatesurge into finals, were desperate to make astatement against one of the best sides of the last handful of years, especially on their home turf.

Sale Citygave TTU arun for theirmoney as the matchopened,with the Bombers holding aminor lead of two points after the first term.

Only two more goals were booted to halftime, with the Bulldogs’ Flynn Read pushing his side ahead earlyoninthe second quarter.

Josh Twite’sresponsefor TTU triggeredan attacking attitude for the Bombers, leading 27-20 at the main break.

TTU returned seeing blood, not wanting to drop another late season game as they did a few weeks ago against Rosedale.

The Bombers booted the opening two goals of the second half to go ahead by 20 points

quickly.

Sale City then responded equally for two majors in their own right to cut the margin back to eight points.

Flipping the switch mid-quarterand into the final term, TTU launched seven unanswered goals to shockingly move past the 50-point mark in aflash.

Liam Michie was best afield for the Bombers, followed by Nick Fox, Michael Jacobsen, Twite (four goals), Jake Albanese and David Waddell.

Tom Bowman, Jaxsyn Whitehill,Nicholas Lerardi, Jason Reid, Mason Benson, and Hudson Tollnerperformed admirably for Sale City.

Amouth-watering matchup now plays out in Round 18 this weekend, where the Bulldogs host Rosedale, in agame that will decide if Sale City play finals or not.  SPEAKING of, the Blues blew by Churchill.

Rosedale defeated Churchill, 20.21 (141) to 1.5 (11) at Rosedale Recreation Reserve. The result could have been even more substantial if the Blues kicked more accurately, but they began with a5.5 (35) to nothing opening quarter.

Another five goals followed in the second term with an additional seven behinds, but the Cougars finally got on the board through amajor from skipper Jordan Fenech. With the scoreboard reading 72-6 at halftime, the Blues were not about to let up, in need of added percentage anyway they could get it.

Adding another35points in the third quarter, Rosedale went passedthe 100-point mark(bothscore and margin-wise) witha quarter to spare.

Amore accurate 5.4 (34) final term resulted in a130-point win for the Blues.

LukeStuckey, TomNorthe, Riley Atlee, Oscar Smith, Rohan Diamond and Spencer Fox (two goals) were standoutsfor Rosedale. Blues playing-coachMichaelDriscoll added agame-highsix goals,while DeclanBarnett produced three.

Joe Whykes, Fenech, Chris Gardiner, Brad Brereton, Jordan Answerth and Nick Twomey were named in the best for Churchill.



GLENGARRY added their third win for the season, while Gormandale continued their unfortunate streak. In abottom three battle with both eyeing an end of season victory, the Magpies won 12.15 (87) to 6.7 (43) at Fred King Oval. After Glengarry opened strongly with three of the first four goals, the Tigers rose to the occasion with the next two, ending the first quarter down just two points.

Gormandale’s undoing however came from practically one player, as the Magpies’ Ben Truin booted six goals in the opening half. That included fourmajorsfrom Truin in the second quarter as Glengarry extendedthe marginbeyond six goals through to halftime

The Tigers attempted to give themselves life as play resumed in the third quarter with the opening two goals, but Glengarry then responded with three of the next four to the finish.

Truin ended the game with aseven-goal masterclass, with Michael Ryan, Jesse Lee, Tom Harris,NathanLarkin and Cameron Whitehead as standouts for the Magpies. HaydenRichards,Liam Deering (two goals), Chris Potalej, Trent Baldwin, Jarred Canning and NicholasMillington(two goals) played well for Gormandale.

 YARRAM had the bye.

Bang: TTU’sJye Neilson goes forgoal during the Bombers54-point win over Sale City in Round17. Photograph supplied

‘Willow’ Williams in rarefied air

FOOTBALL

NORTH GIPPSLAND

BECOMING just the secondplayer in Churchill Football-Netball Club history to reach 350 games, Chris Williams is the definition of aclub-first player. The Cougars veteran brought downthe milestone in their Round 16 hit out against Traralgon Tyers United.

While fluctuating between the seniors and reserves in recent years,this seasonhas seen Williams returnregularlytothe main game in the North Gippsland Football-Netball League. There is littledistinction between Williams' appearancesineither grade,with them almost evened out -176 in the seniorsand 174inthe reserves.

Featuring in astaggering nine grandfinals for Churchill, when asked ahead of his 300th game in 2022 what his career highlight was, it was no surprise; the 2008senior premiership when he was just 24-years-young.

Thatfollowed ayearinwhich he took out the reserves league best-and-fairest in North Gippsland.

In the years since his300th, Williams has passed fellow club legends Darren Blair and Travis Brighton.

He nowsitsjust16games shyofGary Welsh (367) for the most in Churchill history after the weekend's match against Rosedale.

He is not to be confused with fellow Churchill great Chris 'Squid' Williams.

“We havea bit of banter about who’s better,I always say he’s number two because I’m older, but he certainly has afair bit of footy talent,” Williams said of his namesake and ex-teammate.

“He’s known as Squidy, I’m Willow, so it’s pretty simple, there has been afew times there has been afew little mix ups here and there.”

'Willow' Williamscould be the most capped sportsmeninChurchill, having also played more than 250 games for Churchill Cricket Club.

All to play for in final rounds

TWO ROUNDS TO GO

Overview: topfiveall butset.Just amatterofwho finishes where. Morwell and Wonthaggi remain lockedinabattle forfifth, butthe Powerfaces the twotop teamsinthe last tworounds

FIRST -Leongatha (56 points) Won: 14

Lost: 2

Draw: 0

Percentage: 190.32

Finishes with: Wonthaggi (a), Maffra(h)

Stateofplay: Twogames and 22 per cent clear on top.

Most likelyoutcome: win both, finish minor premier (again). They just keep doing it, incredible SECOND -Moe (48 points) Won: 12

Lost: 4

Draw: 0

Percentage: 168.84

Finishes with: Warragul (a), Wonthaggi (h) Stateofplay: Game and eight per cent clear of Traralgon in third.

Most likelyoutcome: plentyofintrigue.Willstart favourites in both, butcertainlynoguarantee given Warragul can still get adouble chance and Wonthaggi might need to win in the last roundto playfinals.One win secures double chance for Moe.Finishing second or thirddoesn't really matter. THIRD -Traralgon (44 points)Won: 11

Lost: 5

Draw: 0

Percentage: 160.12

Finishes with: Bairnsdale (h), Sale (a) Stateofplay: one game and nearly 50 per cent clear in third.

Most likelyoutcome: win both, finish topthree Goes intofinals with adouble chance

FOURTH -Warragul (40 points) Won: 10

Lost: 6

Draw: 0

Percentage: 112.95

Finishes with: Moe (h), Drouin (a)

Stateofplay: Game clear in fourth butwith a comparativelypoorpercentage.Needs to win both its remaining games and hope Traralgon drops one to get double chance

Most likelyoutcome: beats Drouin in the last round, Traralgon wins both its games,Warragul finishes fourth

FIFTH -Morwell (36 points) Won: 9

Lost: 7

Draw: 0

Percentage: 117.32

Finishes with: Sale (h), Bairnsdale (a)

Stateofplay: Equal-fifth with Wonthaggi, butwith 15 per cent advantage

Most likelyoutcome: Not as easyasitappears. Sale beat them last time and Bairnsdale away are always achallenge.Should win with finals on the line though.

SIXTH -Wonthaggi(36 points)Won: 9 Lost: 7

Draw: 0

Percentage: 102.52

Finishes with: Leongatha (h), Moe (a) Stateofplay: Equal-fifth with Morwell, butwith15 per cent difference

Most likelyoutcome: won't shirkthe challenge, butthisisashardasitgets. That loss to Drouin could proveverycostly. Out of contention: Bairnsdale,Maffra, Sale, Drouin -compiled by Liam Durkin

ONE ROUND TO GO

Overview: The minor premiership is still up for grabs with aRound 18 matchup between Foster and Fish Creek, while three teamsare holding out hope forthe last spot in the topsix.

FIRST -Foster(64 points)Won: 14

Lost: 1

Draw: 0

Percentage: 248.83

Finishes with: Fish Creek (h)

Stateofplay: Been topofthe ladder most of the season, and have wontheir last eight matches Most likelyoutcome: With awin at home (although playing second on the ladder), the Tigers lockupthe minor premiership

SECOND -Fish Creek (64 points)Won: 14

Lost: 1

Draw: 0

Percentage: 206.80

Finishes with: Foster (a)

Stateofplay: As the reigning back-to-back premier,theylookasgoodasever. Most likelyoutcome: Playing topofthe table away makes it hard, buthavesignificant gap between second and third.

THIRD -Yinnar (52 points)Won: 11 Lost: 4

Draw: 0

Percentage: 166.18

Finishes with: Thorpdale (a)

Stateofplay: Afew losses against finals opponents has cast alittle bit of doubt if the Magpies can redeem themselvesfromlast year's Grand Final disappointment. Most likelyoutcome: Arelockedintothird regardless of anyoutcome

FOURTH -MDU (44 points)Won: 9

Lost: 6

Draw: 0

Percentage: 122.37

Finishes with: Tarwin (h)

Stateofplay: Had afew solid wins against teams around their mark, lost comfortablyhowever to sides above them (besides beating Yinnar)

Mostlikelyoutcome: Playing at home gives the Demons an edge over afinals-hungry Tarwin. Most likelyholdontofourth. Twolosses to Newborough (ninth) could come backtohaunt them.

FIFTH -Thorpdale (44 points)Won: 9

Lost: 6

Draw: 0

Percentage: 103.53

Finishes with: Yinnar (h)

Stateof play: Winnersoffiveof their last six games,the Blues have earntareturntofinals. Most likelyoutcome: While playing third-placed Yinnar,theycould swingintofourthwith an MDU loss.Mostlikelyholdontofifth.

SIXTH -Tarwin (36 points)Won: 7

Lost: 8

Draw: 0

Percentage: 94 96

Finishes with: MDU (a)

Stateofplay: Despitebeing losersinfourof their previous five games,the Sharks can still securea finals berthwith awin.

Most likelyoutcome: MDU at home will be tough, buttheycan'taccept anything butawin,consideringthe teams they're fighting with (Boolarraand Mirboo North) play each other

SEVENTH -Boolarra (36 points)Won: 7

Lost: 8

Draw: 0

Percentage: 90.81

Finishes with: Mirboo North (a)

Stateofplay: Threewins inarow as it currently stands has kept the Demons alivechance,withan elimination final beforethe home-and-awayseason is over to do so

Most likely outcome: Being at Mirboo North, the game cangoeither way, butboth will be banking on Tarwin losing as well, considering the Sharks better percentage

EIGHTH -MirbooNorth (36 points)Won: 7

Lost: 8

Draw: 0

Percentage: 75.58

Finishes with: Boolarra(h) Stateofplay: Have fallen shortinafew games in the last month that would have otherwise secured their spot infinals

Most likely outcome: Seen above with Boolarra

ONE ROUND TO GO

Overview: Down to YallournYallournNorth and Sale Cityfor last availablespot.

FIRST -TTU (56 points)Won: 14

Lost: 1

Draw: 0

Percentage: 289.24

Finishes with: YYN (a)

Stateofplay: Winnersoftheir last three matches, previouslylooked unbeatable beforemidseason loss to Rosedale

Most likelyoutcome: Even with aloss in the final round, likelytoclaim the minor premiership via percentage

SECOND -Woodside(52 points)Won: 13

Lost: 2

Draw: 0

Percentage: 239.36

Finishes with: Gormandale (a)

Stateofplay: Have done little to cast doubt over thereigning premier,will be at their best in finals

Most likelyoutcome: Facing the bottomsidein the finalround, will hold ontosecond spot.

THIRD -Heyfield (52 points)Won: 13

Lost: 2

Draw: 0

Percentage: 178.77

Finishes with: Glengarry(a) Stateofplay: Been among the best all season long Most likelyoutcome: Have lockedinadouble chance forawhile now.

FOURTH -Rosedale (38 points)Won: 9

Lost: 5

Draw: 1

Percentage: 149.70

Finishes with: Sale City(a)

Stateofplay: Building across the second half of the season and will be toughtohandlewhen playing anyone.Set forfirst finals series since 2019 Most likelyoutcome: With uneven points due to a draw earlier in the year,anawayvictory over Sale Cityleavestheminfourth. Aloss pushes them to fifth.

FIFTH -YYN (36points)Won: 9

Lost: 6

Draw: 0

Percentage: 185.44

Finishes with: TTU (h)

Stateofplay: Playingthe topthree sides in the last five weeks of the home-and-awayseasonhas resulted in theJets clinging ontoaspot in finals Most likelyoutcome: With much betterpercentage, awin against TTUlocks them in, otherwise theyhavetopraythat Rosedale beats Sale City.

SIXTH -SaleCity (34 points)Won: 8

Lost: 6

Draw: 1(game called off)

Percentage: 118.98

Finishes with: Rosedale (h)

Stateofplay: Pickedupnecessarywins in the backend of the year to keep finals chances alive. Most likelyoutcome: Despitelosing to Rosedale by five goals earlier in the season, at home,the Bulldogs stand amuchbetterchance,especially with awin clinching them afinals berth. Couldbe drasticallyunlucky aftersplitting the points with Gormandale in Round1 -MG &NGcompiled by BlakeMetcalf-Holt

Morwell great passes

CRICKET/FOOTBALL

NORMAN Ablett, the father of Morwell footballer and Hawthornpremiership player, Paul Abbott, is being remembered. Norm, who died last week aged 92, was a giant of Morwell Cricket Club. He played from 1948 to 1980, recording 335 games and more than 6000 runs. He was apart of nine senior premierships with the Tigers, playing mostly as an opening and top order bat.

Norm was Inducted as alife member of Morwell CC in 1972.

"Despite all of that, Norm's greatest contribution to the club may not have been on the field," Morwell CC posted in an online tribute.

"Norm played ahugepartinour junior program as acoach and organiser of our junior teams that kept the club healthy from the bottom up for many aseason, mentoring dozens of future champions during his tenure in that role.

"He wasalwayswarmly embraced by those whom he had coached on his returns to the club. He was like acricketing father figure to so many."

Away from cricket, Norm worked as an operations officer at Hazelwood Power Station and had apassion for fishing. He is survived by wife Margaret and their four children.

Loyalty: Churchill’s Chris ‘Willow’ Williamsbrought down his 350th club game recently.

Photograph: Lisa Tyas

GOALS: MoeFourths:

ANardone.Morwell Fourths: HGaunt CMackay SMakepeaceL AinsworthFGranger JTantiado

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GOALS: Leongatha Fourths: LChila 5J Holt 2C BickertonMRichards DMooreLRead JBolge.Drouin Fourths: JProctor 2AHawke BPitt J Taranto BEST: Leongatha Fourths: LChila NBradley NCameron F Livingstone LRead.Drouin Fourths: TWilliames CCroucher BHanneysee JFerguson BPitt EHair

(79)

GOALS: Bairnsdale Fourths: OBaylis 5A Crawley 2H Young HClack A Tanner.Sale Fourths: MMayman 2FMcCarthyD Board. BEST: Bairnsdale Fourths: BLieuwen OBaylis HYoung ATannerA Crawley TCarter. Sale Fourths: FMcCarthyA Gerrand CRand CJohns HBates TMaxfield

(47)

GOALS: Warragul Fourths: BDeAraugo 4F Aubrey 3. Maffra Fourths: J Linford2OCameron 2JLittle AWeatherley BEST: Warragul Fourths: C Ingram JScott TSeniniHAllsop HDennis WPhillips.Maffra Fourths:C Kelly MPendergast HBartlett KTuauPHoran BRowley

GOALS: Traralgon Fourths: KHart-Theissling 4BStevenson 3FGoreN Archibald ATangi LNichollsK Thorley LField QRossWWalkerC Hole WonthaggiFourths: RHullick BEST: Traralgon Fourths: CHole KThorley HConbeer KHart-Theissling LPassWWalker. WonthaggiFourths: NPugh MPlenkovich AWintle WSimmons ELarsen AJobe

Yinnar Primary School Gippsland champions

FOOTBALL

YINNARPrimary Schoolisproudly celebrating an outstanding achievement by its senior students, who recently competed in the Gippsland Region AFL play-offs held in Maffra.

Representing the Latrobe Valley, the Yinnar team faced strong competition from Drouin Primary School, Lucknow Primary School, Leongatha Primary School and Gippsland Grammar in around-robin format. Displaying exceptional teamwork, skill, and sportsmanship, the Yinnar boys remained undefeated throughout the day and were crowned Gippsland Region Champions.

This historic result marks the first time aYinnar Primary School team has qualified for the School Sport Victoria State Finals in ateam sport -anincredible milestone for the school and broader community

Theteamwas expertly coached by Sam McCulloch, senior coach of the Yinnar Football-Netball Club.

“For acommunitythe size of Yinnar to come up against all the other bigger towns and schools in Gippsland and win all their games is a great effort," he said.

“The boys have all come up through the junior ranks at Yinnar and throughschool together. This has helped them form astrongbond andafeel for how each other plays, which showswhenthey’re out on the field.”

Aschool staff member stated how well the students adapted to the newly introduced nine versus nine format, rolled out by School Sport Victoria this year.

The Yinnar Primary School team will now prepare for the state finals, to be held in Melbourne on August 21.

The schoolcommunity is rightfullyproud and looks forward to supporting the team on this exciting next step.

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND

MoeNewborough Allies: TDow 3CDavis 2LPatten2ADavis C Gringhuis SBlair lHughes IRosato. Nar Nar Goon: Details N/A. BEST: Moe Newborough Allies:Details N/A. Nar NarGoon: DetailsN/A U18DIV 1

(7) GOALS: Warragul Industrials: SMorland 3G Quaife2.MDU: CJohnson. BEST: Warragul Industrials: HWaite KWilson MPercy JSmorenburg JChapman SMorland.MDU: HMccrawCJohnson MDiggerman C Hibberson JLowe GGunn

BAIRNSDALE 4.2 4.6 6.8 8.8 (56)

TRARALGON

(0) GOALS: Bairnsdale:LHealey 3J Grimsted 3L Carroll 2. Traralgon: Details N/A. BEST: Bairnsdale: KGibbsLHealey JGrimstedSHamiltonLCarroll JO’Connor.Traralgon: SMcClements ARossR Thomas TPlatt LMilner J Heenan U18DIV

2

(27)

GOALS: Nar Nar Goon: MGoldberg2A Pask SLangley.Boisdale Briagolong: ZSmith 2AHarrington. BEST: Nar Nar Goon: MNorbury SLangley AKatta PKuysMBriganti LGloyn. Boisdale Briagolong: S Worcester SColeman OBrooksLBowker MHunt SHarbour

GOALS: PBJFC: HJones 5JSutton 3A Tangi2 TGiovinazzo2LField 2J Pierce OCliftonLBalcombe Matters EJones.Morwell: BDuncan 2RCahill JJohnson. BEST: PBJFC: LBalcombe Matters ATangi LField HJones RJolly TGiovinazzo. Morwell: JLanganJJohnson BDuncan JTurnerL Thomson RCahill

GLENGARRY0.0

GOALS: Churchill Cougars: BMcGee 7BHarrington4 TMcinnes 3LGina 3NStockdale 3J Towers 2W Selzer 2RRennie 2NMclindon TGoyne KHeeremans SClam. Glengarry: NFernance2 BLeeson. BEST: Churchill Cougars: BHarringtonBMcGee JTowers NStockdale KHeeremans T Mcinnes.Glengarry: NCantwell ORankcom CArbuthnot BBartram M Wolthuizen BLeeson SSJFC

GOALS: SSJFC: MShaw6 WWalker4 WFrankland 2LGeary2FGraham J Hodson. Yinnar:B Melbourne KRoss BBremner BEST: SSJFC: Details N/A. Yinnar:T TryKRoss JO’Hara PMills TWebber

KANGAROOS1.1

GOALS: West End Bombers: RFarley 5J Hazelman 2CLaird JBull KHartTheissling NSim. CS Kangaroos: KHughes 2H Giblett JElms HSmith AHuxley BEST: West End Bombers: CLaird TWeegberg(Pearson) W Pettigrove JArmstrong BMclachlan KHart-Theissling.CSKangaroos:H Giblett CVan derMeer CPurcell KHughes CMilliner EPalmer

Tomholt. Yinnar:T OHara2 HWallin. BEST: SSJFC: HRiseley BAppleyardH Phillips JTomholt AGrimesN Harle.Yinnar:T OHaraB Crookston BStevens J

CS Kangaroos: HMcMahon 4Z Seeber 2LGroves2 HRawson 2 AColesAHarrisLFlowers FGreer NKrausz. West End Bombers: BDales BEST: CS Kangaroos: CAttridge CDavey ABuisCClarke LFlowers AHarris West End Bombers: JBradfordEHutchiesonZBullM

Churchill TFerguson MKaczkowski CHowlett. Morwell: BMcKay AJago D George DPostlethwaiteH BonniciJ Studd

SSJFC: SDarby 5HMacpherson 3T BenbowC

Yinnar: Details N/A.. BEST: SSJFC: HMacpherson CWardP WattsBGarland R Winkler TShaw. Yinnar:HBrightonAMcCulloch JWebb EForbes JBond

GOALS: Churchill Cougars: RPaterson 2RSamblebe.Glengarry: CWelch JMayer. BEST: Churchill Cougars: NKlepRFraser-Mathews RMiddleton R Samblebe RPaterson CCorrea. Glengarry: DetailsN/A.

GOALS: West End Bombers: LMatthews4BFulhamC Wedmore. CS Kangaroos: TDenyer2S Konyi

Saturday, August 16

ABC (2)

6am Mor ning Programs. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 11.55 Rage Closer.(R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Grantchester.(Ma, R) 1.15

Professor T. (Mav,R) 2.05 All Creatures Great And Small. (Final, PG, R) 2.50 Great Souther nLandscapes. (R) 3.25 Earth. (R) 4.25 WouldI Lie To You? (PG, R) 4.55 Dr Ann’sSecretLives. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Australian Story: To Bilo And Back –The Nadesalingam Family (R) Leigh Sales checks in with the Tamilfamily

6.30 Back Roads: Mataranka, NT (PG, R) Kristy O’Brien explores Mataranka, NT

7.00 ABC News. Alook at the top stories of the day

7.30 Grantchester (Final, Ma) Alphy and Geordie investigate amurder

8.20 Midsomer Murders. (Mav,R) Bar naby must uncover whether amyth has become amurderous reality after aman is murdered.

9.50 The Family Next Door (Ml, R) Astranger arrives in a Victorian coastal town.

10.40 Miss Austen. (R) Cassandra is forced to confront past choices. 11.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.10pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Steve And Aneeshwar Go Wild. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.40 Chopped Junior 9.25 Fresh OffThe Boat. 10.05 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs.

2.20 Nula. 2.50 Skate Or Cry 3.00 Black As. 3.05 MOVIE: Another Country.(2015, PG) 4.30 Stompem Ground: King Of Hearts. 5.00 Stompem Ground 2022: Blekbala Mujik. 5.55 Yarning CultureThrough Film. 6.00 Amplify 6.30 News. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Big BackyardQuiz. 8.30 MOVIE: Poltergeist. (1982, M) 10.30 Late Programs.

(3)

6am Mor ning Programs. 10.05 Blue Water Safari. (PGa, R) 11.00 BBC News At Ten. 11.30 France 24. 12.00 PBS News. 1.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. Round 4. Day 1. 5.00 Plat Du Tour 5.10 Dylan Alcott: The Road To Kasama. 5.40 Kursk: 10 Days That Shaped Putin. (Premiere)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great British Cities With

Susan Calman: Glasgow (PG)

Susan Calman visits Glasgow

8.20 Leonardo Da Vinci: The Disciple Of Experience Pt 2. (Final, PG) In Milan, da Vinci joins Duke Sforza’s court.

9.25 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Piedmont. (PGl, R)

Stanley Tucci visits Piedmont.

10.15 Great Australian Walks: Cape To Cape Track. (PG, R)

11.10 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav,R)

2.50 24 Hours In A&E. (Ma, R) 3.45

Curious Traveller.(R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R) 5.15 France

24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6.00 NBC Today 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Mor ning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. The Rosebud Race Day and Mekka Raceday 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG)

The team visits arecord-breaking city

7.30 Ron Iddles: The Good Cop: (Madlv,R) Ron Iddles revisits the 1985 murder deaths of his elderly parents.

8.35 MOVIE: The Martian. (2015, Mal, R) Believed to be dead by his crew,anastronaut is stranded on Mars and has to rely on his ingenuity to survive. Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, JeffDaniels.

11.30 To Be Advised.

1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’sAcademic. (R) 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 Getaway.(PG, R) 6.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 7.00 WeekendToday 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday.(PG) 12.00 Destination WA 12.30 Space Invaders. (PGa,

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. Steve’shouse has been on the market for seven months. 8.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mal, R) help apatient in need of urgent care after an incident involving acar 9.40 Gordon Ramsay’sSecret Service. (PGl, R)Gordon Ramsay surveils andworks to save alegendary soul food café on the verge of losing its legacy 10.40 Elsbeth. (PGv,R)Elsbeth tries to solve amurder 11.35 Watson. (Mm, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power 6am

WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up. Noon Abandoned Americana. 12.55 Alone: Frozen. 2.30 Alone: The Skills Challenge. 2.55 12 Dishes In 12 Hours. 3.30 News. 3.35 WorldWatch. 5.35 Mastermind Aust. 6.35 The Frontier 7.30 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 Little Fires Everywhere. (Premiere) 10.35 Marcella. 11.30 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Nobody Has To Know.(2021) 11.55 T-34. (2018, Malv, Russian, German, Belarusian, Ukrainian) 1.55pm The Movie Show 2.30 (2018, PGa) 4.25 The Movie Show 5.00 Percy Vs Goliath. (2020, PGal) 6.55 Gambit. (2012, PGlsv) 8.30 The Prestige. (2006, Mav) 10.50 Late Programs.

7TWO (72, 62)

6am Morning

Programs. 11.30 GetOn Extra. Noon Room For Improvement. 12.30 The Real Seachange. 1.00 Better Homes. 2.00 The Zoo. 2.30 Better Homes. 4.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 5.00 The YorkshireSteam Railway: All Aboard. 6.00 Every Bite Takes YouHome. 6.30 The YorkshireVet. 8.30 Escape To The Country 11.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (73,64)

6am Mor ning

Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Teeing

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 24. South Sydney Rabbitohs vParramattaEels.

9.25 Soccer English Premier League. Matchweek 1. Aston Villa vNewcastle United. From Villa Stadium, Birmingham, England. 11.30 Law &Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av,R)The taskforce tracks down amurderer

12.30 Space Invaders. (PGa, R)

1.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Jour ney Presents. (PG)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

9GEM (92,81)

6am Morning

Programs. 2.30pm NRLWWrap. 3.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s. Broncos vEels. 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’sPremiership. NZ Warriors vCanberra Raiders. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. South Sydney Rabbitohs vEels. 7.30 MOVIE: You’ve Got Mail. (1998, PG) 9.55 MOVIE: Magic Mike’sLast Dance. (2023, M) 12.10am Late Programs.

OffWith Daisy Thomas. 2.00 Football. VFL. Sandringham vEssendon. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars 7.30 Football.AFL Women’s. Round 1. Wester nBulldogs vMelbour ne. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Pawn Stars. 11.30 Late Programs. 9GO! (93, 82)

6am Morning Programs. 2.55pm MOVIE: Mr Holland’sOpus. (1995, PG) 5.45 MOVIE: Scooby-Doo. (2002, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them. (2016, M) 10.10 MOVIE: The Huntsman: Winter’sWar.(2016, M) 12.25am The Originals. 2.15 MOVIE: Occupation: Rainfall. (2020, M) 4.30 Pet Shop Zombies. 4.50 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Late Programs.

10 COMEDY (11, 52)

10 DRAMA (12, 53) 6am Bold. 8.30 Wheel Of Fortune. 10.00 Ridiculousness. 11.00 Everyday Gourmet. 11.30 Deal Or No Deal. Noon Stephen Colbert. 2.00 Ridiculousness. 3.00 Frasier 4.00 Friends. 6.30 Big Bang. 10.00 Frasier 11.00 Ridiculousness. Midnight South Park. 1.00 Shopping. 1.30 South Park. 2.30 Shopping.

12.30pm Australia By Design: Architecture. 1.00 AMillion Little Things. 3.00 JAG. 5.00 Reel Action. 5.30 JAG. (PGad, R) 7.30 NCIS. (Mv,R) 10.20 FBI: International. (Mv,R) 12.15am Shopping.

Want mreeyes ny

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Formoreinformation talk to your localLatrobe ValleyExpress representative or call theoffice on 5135 4444 to speaktoone of our friendly and helpful consultants.

Sunday,August 17

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6am Mor ning Programs. 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 Griff’sGreat American South. (PG, R) 3.15 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.40 Martin Clunes: Islands 4.30 Joanna Lumley’sSpice Trail Adventure. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow

6.30 Compass.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Austin. (PG) Austin fakes pop culturetastestosell books.

8.00 The Family Next Door (Mls)

8.55 Miss Austen. (Final, PG) Cassandra prepares to leave Kintbury for the last time and delves into correspondence from Jane.

9.50 MOVIE: Puberty Blues. (1981, Mdlns, R) Charts ateenager’s

11.15 Take 5With Zan Rowe: Neil Finn. (PG, R)

11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

1.40 Under The Vines. (PG, R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Mor ning Programs. 10.05 Blue Water Safari. (PGaw,R) 12.00 APAC Weekly 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. Round 4. Day 2. 5.00 Plat Du Tour 5.10 Going Places. (R) 5.40 Kursk: 10 Days That Shaped Putin.

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Colosseum Rise And Fall. (Premiere, Mav) 9.25 Pompeii’sSecretUnderworld: Infer no And Inequality (Mav,R)Experts uncover what Pompeii’ssociety was like. 10.20 Tutankhamun: Secrets Of The ToxicTomb. (PG, R) 11.15 Eva Longoria: Searching For Mexico. (PGad, R) 1.35 24 Hours In Emergency.(PGa, R) 3.25 Wuthering Harlots: Pride And Prostitution. (MA15+as, R) 4.20 J Schwanke’sLife In Bloom. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.45 Steve And Aneeshwar Go Wild. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 The Mysterious Benedict Society 8.25 Fresh OffThe Boat. 9.05 Abbott Elementary 9.50 Speechless. 10.10 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 1.55 Stompem Ground: Pearl Smith. 2.00 Lionel. 3.30 Big Sky Girls. 3.50 Boxing For Palm Island. 4.50 Ub40 Feat. Ali Campbell Live Concert. 6.30 News. 6.40 Colombia’s Wild Coast. 7.30 Extraordinary Animals.

8.30 Black Cockatoo Crisis. 9.55 MOVIE: One Flew Over The Cuckoo’sNest. (1975, MA15+) 12.15am Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Mor ning Show: Weekend. (PG) 11.30 Sunday Footy Feast. 12.30 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 1. Brisbane Lions vHawthor n. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 23. Sydney vGeelong.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 The Voice. (PGl) Hosted by Sonia Kruger 8.40 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.40 24 Hours In Police Custody: Sex And Corruption. (MA15+as, R) Aman in Luton reports he is being blackmailed by someone who knows that he visited aprostitute.

10.40 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Assassination Of John Newman. (Mav,R)Alook at the assassination of John Newman. 12.00 Jamestown. (MA15+av)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (72, 62)

6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 7.00 WeekendToday 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show.(PG) 12.00 Wide World Of Sports. (PG) 1.00 Fishing Australia. (R) 1.30 The Block. (PGl, R) 3.50 David Attenborough’s Dynasties II. (PGa,

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 The Block. (PGl) The winner of main ensuite week is revealed.

8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.

9.40 9News Late.

10.10 Footy Fur nace. (Mlv) Alook at the latest roundofthe AFL. 11.10 The First 48: What About Me/Last Round. (Mal)

12.05 The Gulf. (Madlsv,R) 1.00 Destination WA 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory (PGa) 4.30 Fishing Australia. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Survivor: Australia VThe World. (Retur n, PGa) Fourteen retur ning contestants head to Samoa. 8.45 Watson. (PGals) Watson takes amajor ethical risk when he decides to treat asicklecell patient with an unorthodox surgery.The team faces their own dilemma with ayoung woman. 9.45 FBI. (Mv,R)The team investigates when afederal judge is gunned down execution-style in broad daylight. 10.45 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mor nings. 6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Small Business Secrets. 10.00 Front Up. Noon Alone: Frozen. 1.35 Alone: The Skills Challenge. 2.00 Jeopardy! 4.05 WorldWatch. 4.35 PBS Washington Week. 5.00 Kars &Stars. 5.50 Alone Sweden. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 The Sinking Of ASuperyacht. 9.25 Great Australian Road Trips. 10.25 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6.10am Percy Vs Goliath. (2020, PGal) 8.00 The Movie Show 8.30 Gambit. (2012, PGlsv) 10.05 The Prestige. (2006, Mav) 12.25pm To Leslie. (2022, Madl) 2.35 First Cow.(2019, PGalv) 4.50 The Legend Of Longwood. (2014, PGa) 6.40 Bring It On. (2000, PGals) 8.30 Boogie Nights. (1997, MA15+adsv) 11.20 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 10.30 Escape To The Country 1.30pm Discover 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.00 Your Money &Your Life. 3.30 The Zoo. 4.00 Escape To The Country 7.00 Greatest Escapes To The Country 7.45 Mrs Brown’s Boys. 8.30 Vera 10.30 Manhunt: The Night Stalker 11.30 Late Programs.

9GEM (92,81)

6am Morning Programs. 1.45pm Rugby League. NRL Women’sPremiership. Roosters vKnights. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. North Qld Cowboys vKnights. 6.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’sPremiership. North Qld Cowboys vCanterbury Bulldogs. 8.00 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Silence Of The Lambs. (1991, MA15+) 10.55 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm Ready VetGo: The VetParamedics. 3.00 Cards And Collectables Australia. 3.30 MOVIE: Getting Even With Dad. (1994, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: Agent Cody Banks. (2003, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Flash. (2023, M) 10.30 MOVIE: Chaos Walking. (2021, M) 12.30am Gotham. 1.25 Arrow 3.10 Oz OffRoad TV 4.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 NFL. NFL. Preseason. Week 2. Los Angeles Rams vLos Angeles Chargers. Noon The Fishing Show 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fishy Business. 2.30

Monday,August 18

ABC (2)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. (R) 10.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mav,R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.30 Back Roads. (R) 2.55 Grand Designs. (R) 3.45 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 4.40 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6.30 HardQuiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Australian Story

Presented by Leigh Sales.

8.30 Four Cor ners. Investigative jour nalism program.

9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser

9.35 Planet America. Hosted by Chas Licciardello and John Barron. 10.05 ABC Late News.

10.20 The Business. (R)

10.40 ALife In TenPictures. (PG, R)

11.30 Grand Designs. (R) 12.20 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 1.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

(3)

6am Mor ning Programs. 12.10 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News Weekend. 1.30 Al Jazeera News Hour 2.00 Brendan Gleeson’s Farewell To Hughes. 3.10 Grand Tours Of Scotland’sRivers. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.15 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Portugal With Michael Portillo. (PG) Michael Portillo visits Coimbra and Aveiro.

8.25 Abandoned Railways From Above: Wales. (R) Ajour ney along aWelsh line.

9.20 Britain’sMost Beautiful Road. (R) The jour ney draws to aclose 10.15 SBS World News Late. (Malv)

11.35 ACriminal Affair (Mal, R) 1.15 Blackport. (Mln, R) 2.00 Incredible Homes. (PGn, R) 3.00 Curious Traveller (R) 3.30 Great Irish Interiors. (PG, R) 4.00 JSchwanke’sLife In Bloom. (R) 4.30 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Dr Ann’sSecret Lives. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Contraption Masters. 9.25 The Crystal Maze. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 1.55pm Stompem Ground: Jadadi. 2.00 Tradition On APlate 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Black As. 5.30 The 77 Percent. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Undiscovered Vistas. 7.30 Who Do YouThink YouAre? 8.30 Karla Grant Presents. 9.25 National Indigenous Fashion Awards. 10.30 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.30 In The Box. 1.00 Ten Year Old Tom. 1.30 One Armed Chef. 2.25 Roswell: First Witness. 3.20 Wine Lovers’ Guide. 3.50 WorldWatch 5.45 Fast History Of. 6.10 New York SuperAirport. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Jon Richardson: Knitwit. 9.25 Never Mind Buzzcocks. 10.05 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 8.25 Bring It On. (2000, PGals) 10.15 Emma. (2017, Mlns, Italian) 12.25pm Knight Of Cups. (2015, Malns) 2.35 Gambit. (2012, PGlsv) 4.10 Mrs Lowry And Son. (2019, PGan) 5.50 Remi Nobody’sBoy.(2018, PGav,French) 7.50 TwoMany Chefs. (2022, Madl, Spanish) 9.30 Studs. (2006, Mlv) 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Mor ning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 ToBeAdvised.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away (PGa) Irenesays her goodbyes.

7.30 The Voice. (PGal) Afresh batch of undiscovered artists step into the spotlight for their blind auditions.

8.55 The Rookie. (Retur n, Mav) Nolan and the team welcome two new rookies and hunt for two dangerous inmates with personal vendettas.

9.55 S.W.A.T (Retur n, Mv) The team heads to Mexico.

11.00 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 12.00 Gone. (MA15+v,R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 The Block. (PGl) The teams face hurdles. (Ml) Ateam of footy experts tackles the AFL’s big issues and controversies.

9.45 Players. (Ml) Three of the AFL’s biggest stars talk about all

10.45 9News Late.

11.15 Opal Hunters: Red Dirt Road

ACurrent Affair.(R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today 6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Believer’sVoice Of Victory (PGa)

9GEM (92,81)

Programs. 1pm Your Money &Your Life. 1.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.00 Weekender 2.30 The YorkshireSteam Railway: All Aboard. 3.30 Harry’sPractice. 4.00 The Zoo. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Doc Martin. 8.30 Endeavour 10.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 2pm World’sGreatest Engineering Icons. 3.10 Explore. 3.15 Antiques Roadshow 3.45 MOVIE: The Man In The White Suit. (1951) 5.30 YorkshireAuction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 Recipes For Love And Murder 9.40 Harry Wild. 10.50 Late Programs.

7MATE (73,64)

3.00

4.00 Swamp People:

7TWO (72, 62) 6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm Nanny 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Clash Of The Titans. (2010, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 Veronica Mars. 12.30am Pretty Little Liars. 1.30 Supernatural. 3.30 Below Deck. 4.30

Invasion. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Agenda Setters. 8.00 Outback Crystal Hunters. 9.00 Aussie Gold Hunters. 10.00 Late Programs.

9GO! (93, 82)

Tuesday,August 19

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mor nings. 10.00 Australian Story.(R) 10.30 Compass. (R) 11.05 Miss Austen. (Final, PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Countdown 50 YearsOn. (PG, R) 2.50 Grand Designs. (R) 3.40 Grand Designs Transformations. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family.(R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30. 8.00 Foreign Correspondent.

8.30 Dr Ann’sSecret Lives. (Final) In Bor neo, Dr Ann Jones looks for pangolins. 9.00 Dr Karl’sHow Things Work: Cheese. (Final, R) Dr Karl Kruszelnicki lear ns how cheese is made.

9.30 Earth: Human. (Final, R)

10.30 ABC Late News. 10.45 The Business. (R) 11.00 Four Cor ners. (R) 11.45 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.05 The HowardYears. (R) 1.05 Grand Designs. (R) 1.50 Long Lost Family.(R) 2.35 Rage.(MA15+adhlnsv) 3.05 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Mor ning Programs. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 2.05 Miscarriage And Me. (Mal, R) 3.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’sRivers. (PG, R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Continental Railway Jour neys: Zurich/ Rotkreuz To Brienz. (PG)

8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi looks at moder nparenting. 9.30 Dateline: The Cost Of Doing Business Pt 2. Continues the investigation into Mosaic Brands.

10.00 SBS World News Late. 10.30 Secret World Of Snacks. (R) 11.25 The Shift. (Ma) 1.05 Everything YouLove. (Mals, R) 2.05 Curious Traveller.(R) 3.35 Incredible Homes. (R) 4.35 Bamay (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.50pm Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Deadly 60. 9.10 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.

Front Up 1998. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Homicide. 2.20 Fashionista. 2.30 Roswell: The First Witness. 3.10 Aussie Jokers. 3.40 News. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 The Fast History Of. 6.10 New York Super Airport. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Alone. 9.40 Hoarders. 11.20 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Eight Ladies. 2.00 Tradition On A Plate. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Black As. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Black As. 6.45 Undiscovered Vistas. 7.35 Ice Vikings. 8.30 ProBull Riding Australia. 9.30 Over The Black Dot. 10.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Mor ning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 Home And Away (PGa, R) 1.30 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away (PG) Summer Bay farewells alegend.

7.30 The Voice. (PGl) Hosted by Sonia Kruger

8.55 Boyzone: Life, Death And Boybands: When All Is Said And Done. (Final, Mal) With fame, loss and reunion, Boyzone faces highs and heartbreak.

10.00 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.

11.00 Kylie Vs Bee Gees. (PG, R) 12.00 Fairly Legal. (Mav,R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

(34) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 The Zoo. 9.30 NBC Today Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country 2.00

6am Morning Programs. 8.05 Remi Nobody’sBoy.(2018, PGav,French) 10.10 3/19. (2021, Mal, Italian) 12.20pm Studs. (2006, Mlv) 2.05 The Legend Of Longwood. (2014, PGa) 3.55 The Company.(2003, PGals) 6.00 Emu Runner.(2018, PGadlv) 7.45 The Fence. (2022, Mdlv) 9.30 In Bruges. (2008, MA15+adlv) 11.30 Late Programs.

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 Today 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News

6.00 9News.

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 The Block. (PGl) Foreman Dan is accused of stitching up acontestant.

8.40 Paramedics. (M) Bill deals (Ml) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

10.40 9News Late.

11.10 La Brea. (Mav,R) 12.05 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Let’sEat With George. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. 2.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 3.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa) 4.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today 6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer

Survivor: Australia VThe World. (PGl) Fourteen retur ning contestants head to Samoa. 9.00 The Cheap Seats. (Mal) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take alook at the week that was. 10.00 10’sLate

Countryevent sparks in excitement

By KATRINA BRANDON

SOLD out and boots kicking, the Australian Rodeo Queen Quest 2025 event in Maffra was ahit Traralgon local Grace(Gigi) Griffith is in the running to be named Australia's Rodeo Queen.

On Saturday, August 2, more than 250people enjoyed agood ole country night at Maffra’s Maffco Brewery and Distillery.

Activities such as line dancing, barrel racing and ring toss played out.

The event was sparked by Ms Griffith’s selection to representTraralgon and the wider Gippsland area in theAustralian Rodeo Queen Quest (ARQQ) 2025 -anationalcompetitioncelebrating horsemanship, leadership, and the heart of rural Australia. Within the Quest, Ms Griffith chose to fundraise for Rural Aid.

Ms Griffith, 29, is one of nineyoung women selected nationally to compete in the Rodeo Queen Quest, and one of just two entrants from Victoria. While Ms Griffith was born and raised in the High Country, she has apassion for the local area.

“Saturday night was simply incredible,” Ms Griffith toldher Facebook followers after the event.

in all

“When Iset outtodothis, Inever dreamedof asell-outevent with 250 people.You wereall amazing, from our vendorstothe venuestaff, to our incredible volunteers and our wonderful mix of attendees. This eventisexactlywhatit’s allabout -celebratingand supporting our rural communities.”

Before the event even started, along list of people beganlining up before the gates openedat5.30pm.

Excitement roared as the gates opened, people grabbed their activity passes and were welcomed by DJ Yeehaw as they entered the door.

Walking into the warm establishment, activities jumped up and out at the audience and were hard to miss.

Officially starting at 6pm, the barrel racing competitionsparked theevening, withblow-up horse costumes for participants to wear as they ran the barrel racing course. Up and around, the barrel racing section of the night drew excitement from young children and older adults alike.

As well as it being hard to miss, it was hard to avoid being in the middle of the excitement of the course, with the room getting rowdy and tight as more people arrived.

Jumping out at people next, it was either the bar or the chance to rope in a“bull”. Those who dared to rope abeast (barrel) got the opportunity to learn how to rope.

Spilling over to 7.30pm, Queens Country &Line DanceEvents teacherChristine Saviane took the stage. Putting all other activities to rest, Ms Savianesparked excitementwith learning how to line dance. Alarge majority of the crowd joined in with the boot-scooting and heel-clicking section of the night.

More competitions and activities continued late into the night.

Established in 1992, the ARQQ is the longestrunningnational Rodeo Queen competitionin Australia.Itexiststohonour the sport of rodeo and elevate ambassadors who can represent rural values and Australian rodeo culture both nationally and internationally.

The winner is crowned Miss Rodeo Australia, gaining the opportunity to represent the country at events across Australiaand internationally, including in the United States.

Entrants are judged acro ss sever al areas, including horsemanship and riding ability, public speaking and media presentation, community engagement and charity work, rodeo knowledge and rural awareness, as well as personal presentation and leadership skills.

The Quest spans several months of preparation,fundraising, event attendance and public appearances. For more information or to support

Grace’s campaign, visit Grace “Gigi” Griffith -Australian Rodeo Queen Quest 2025 Entrant on Facebook.

Familyevent: Morwell’sPhoenix (11), Rebecca Ruby andLateaya (7) had fun at Grace(Gigi’s) Griffith’s Australian RodeoQueen Quest event.

Activeparticipant: Morwell’sLateaya (7)joined

activities available at theMaffcofundraiser including‘roping thebull’

Countryfun: Traralgon’s Grace(Gigi)Griffith (second from right) and herteam welcomedmore than250 people to the fundraiser Photographs: KatrinaBrandon

Social: Rosedale’s Chase Hansfordand Maffra’s Gaby Marino and Maddie Brickhad fun net working at the all-countr yevent.

TraralgonCityband didusproud

THIS letter is to congratulate the members of the Traralgon City Band on their very successful overseas trip.

While showcasing their musical talents, they embraced the wonderful communities they visited and entertained so well.

We are indeed blessed in the Latrobe Valley with quality musicians. The playing of the very special bugleatthe gravesiteofits owner will live with the band forever.

It would be remiss not to mention the wonderful job so wellcarried outbyLatrobeCity Council Mayor, Dale Harriman.

MayorHarrimanrepresented the community with decorum and respect, as did the sponsors and Doug Caulfield who represented the RSL at commemorative ceremonies.

Mayor Harriman advised that the band were received withgreat respectand gratitude from the locals everywhere.

He also concurred that the band were outstanding and carried themselves with agreat deal of dignity and did Latrobe City proud.

Thank you Traralgon City Band, you have the sincere appreciationofTraralgon Community Development Association Inc and its members.

Anne Wilson

Traralgon Community Development Association Secretary

Can't see the wood forthe trees

THE recent announcement by the ALP state government that Heyfield willreceive $500,000 of a$2 million Community Development Fund allocation for EasternVictoria ('Future proofing Heyfield amid ongoing timber transition', Latrobe Valley Express, 06/08) promises yet another ‘transition’ program that proposes to turn around the fortunes of this town, hit hard by Dan Andrews’ decision to prematurely close down the native timber industry in 2024.

While I’m sure that this hush money will no doubt be welcomed by some of its residents, for others it will appear to be asad postscript in the history of aonce proud, self sufficienttown which has for decades made asignificant contribution to the Gippsland economy.

Victoria’s timber industry used to inject billions of dollars into the Victorian economy, and employed thousands of Victorians. Its workers, in turn, invested their earnings into regional towns like Heyfield and Orbost, allowing them to prosper and remain independent of such government financing.

Following the closure of the native timber industry, these towns have steadily declined as services provided within them are deemed unprofitable and closed,e.g.the announcement last week that Orbost was goingtolose its town gas service, requiring them to return to bottled gas.

The ironic thing is that Australia still needs

Honouring timber heroes

COMMENT

BY DANNYO'BRIEN

IWAS honoured to attend the recent inductionceremony at the HeyfieldTimber Workers Hall of Fame.

It was agreat opportunity to recognise the contribution of the men and women whohave helped buildand sustainour local timber industry, especially those from Gippsland South.

The Leeson family of Rosedale made history as the first multigenerational inductees into the Hall of Fame.

Withthree generations(andcounting) working in the industry,the Leesons have made aremarkable contribution, particularly in the plantation softwood sector, and remain major employers in our region.

CongratulationsalsotoFrankBalcombe of Toongabbie and the late ErnieHug Snr. It was moving to see Mr Hug’s family there to accept the award on his behalf.

These are people who have spent alifetime supporting an industry that has supported Gippsland for over acentury.

Despite the Labor government’s disastrous decision to shut down Victoria’s sustainable native timber industry, our timber communities continue to stand strong.

With the grit and resilience of local families like the Leesons, Balcombes and Hugs, Iam confident the industry will endure.

Dann yO ’Bri en is The Na tion als Member for Gippsland South.

the timber that these towns used to supply. So where is this wood now being sourced from?

The most recent timber statistics are found in the 2023-24 ABARES (Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resources Economics) report, which show that we now import $6.5 billion of woodannuallyand this amountisincreasingin order to meet demand. It also reveals that much of this comes from places like South East Asia and the Amazon, wherethe conceptofworld’s best forestry practises is unknown and concern for the welfare of endangered species is alow priority.

Australia’s hardwood imports from Indonesia increased from$35.5 million in 2015to$137 million in 2024. Imports from Malaysia have increased by 2.5times over the same period.

The ASH (AustralianSustainable Hardwood) plant in Heyfield-which is part owned by the state government-used to usenative regrowth timber, butowing to the government’s ban on native forestry harvesting, now imports American hardwoods and timber from Tasmania. How much carbon is actually saved fromall this importation?

It is time for an end to ‘Greenomics’ which foolishly thinks we can save the planet by not using our own local rich resources, yet it’s okay to import thesein, at amuchhigher price, from overseas. All in the quest for net zero, which is destroying our industries and shifting the environmental problems elsewhere.

Greg Hansford Newborough (One Nation candidate for Gippsland 2025)

Welcome to Taxland

WHENIwas growing up in Northern Ireland, there was no such thing as television. We had aradio that had to warm up after it was switched on, and then there was this voice, "This is the BBC Home Service, here is the news".

Theonlyphone around then wasone that was sitting in ared box next to the local town hall.

In those days, people wrote letters before we had such athing as the internet.

At school, we learned how to read, write and count. No protest rallies in those days because we were too busy getting educated.

After learning atrade and leaving behind the troubles in Northern Ireland,I cametothe 'Lucky Country', Australia. Plenty of jobs in 1981 with great mates, lots of jokes and plenty of barbecues. Today, in 2025, there are plenty of jobs and alot less production,but it seemsthat nobodywantsto work anymore; they are too busy looking for the next handout. No jokes any more in case you offend someone, but plenty of protest rallies for everyone to attend, shout abuse, smash shop windows and spray graffiti on walls.

Law and order is athing of the past in Victoria, where it's okay to be acriminaland an offence to be alaw-abiding citizen.

Mind you, we havegreat homes with ducted

heating and cooling, along with gas cooking, and we drive modern cars with all new gadgets. Let's not forgetour laptops andmobile phones. No more red boxes for today's generation, and all thanks to those coal-firedpowerstations supplyingpower to ourproduction lines.

Now, however, those power stations are being closed by our politicians, especially the Labor and Green mob. It'sall about 'climate change' and cuttingdowntrees to make way for expensive transmission lines, especiallyinthe caseofthe VNI-West transmission line project, which is costing$7.6 billion. Acost that 'Silly' Lily D'Ambrosio dismisses because she and her government are too busy inventing new taxes and increasing old ones.

WelcometoTaxland, all you new migrants. Watch out for potholes on your journey and don't forget to wave to our politicians as they take off on their next interstate and overseas junket at taxpayers' expense.

Brian Mawhinney

Traralgon

To the point

AFTER reading the letters in last week's Express, Iwillmakemycomment short and sweet: Fight you buggers fight!

Garry Mitchell

Yallourn North

MinistryorMorwell?

DOES Harriet Shing care about the rising crime rates in her electorate?

Is Harriet concerned by the number of empty retailshops near her electoral office on Commercial Road, Morwell?

How much time doesHarriet spend in her electoral office dealing with her constituents? Or does she delegate most of her duties to one of her unelected staff because she is too busy being a Minister in Melbourne and not our local politician?

As aseniorMinister,whathas she done to combat the rising crime,homelessness, job losses, retail store closures etc which the Labor government is responsible for?

Ihave to wonderifthere are any merits to having alocal member who is also asenior Minister if she can't use her political influence and make her electorate safe and prosperous.

Patrick Ansell

Morwell

Sold apup

IN the old-fashioned Lassie tearjerker film ('Hills of Home', 1948) the main character, Dr William McClure, is sold aworthless sheep-dog that, unbeknown to him, is afraid of water.

In other words, he has been sold apup so to speak.

In the same deceptive and underhanded manner, Australians have been sold apup via acunning propagandacampaignworthy of Dr Goebbels

sur roundi ng renewab les, and propagated in Victoria by the Labor government and their goon squadled by deluded Victorian Energy Minister 'Silly'Lily D'Ambrosio.

Withoutcommunity consultation or licence, Latrobe Valley has been forcefully and brutally zoned as arenewable hub. Billions of taxpayer money has been spent already on this mad experiment and millions of lives have been impoverished and ruined.

The open cut has been closed and said to be awaiting "rehabilitation" although the only ones needing "rehabilitation" and urgent psychiatric treatment are Australian PM Anthony Albanese, Energy Minister Chris'Blackout' Bowen, SillyLily and many others peddling this nonsense.

Lis

Joseph

Morwell

Have your say

THE Latrobe Valley Express welcomes letters to the editor.

Preferencewillbegiventobrief, concise letters which address local issues. The editor Liam Durkin, reserves the right to edit letters for reasons of space and clarity, and may refuse to publish any letter without explanation.

The Express does not publish letters from anonymous contributors.

Letters mustinclude aphone number, email address and the author's hometown for purposes of substantiating authenticity. Readers are entitled to aright of replytoa letter directed at them.

While healthy debate is encouraged, the editor will stamp out any that cross the line to defamation.

The views expressed in letters to the editor are thoseofthe writers, and do notnecessarily reflect the views of Latrobe Valley Express management or staff.

Readers should be equally aware that facts presented in letters are selected to support a person's point of view.

As such, statistics can quite often be fabricateddependingonthe pool of dataused or people involved in surveys.

The letters section is designed to allow people to have their say, and not be hijacked for political agendas.

Letter sr eg ardi ng reli gion will not be published.

Email letters to news@lvexpress.com.au and include 'Lettertothe Editor' in the subject line. Deadline for letters is Thursday 3pm.

The need to evaluate intended criteria

COMMENT BY GREATLATROBE PARK

ENERGY Australia Yallourn’s call for public input to their Declared Mine Rehabilitation Plan (DMRP) closes August 18, 2025.

Background

ALL of the mine licensees are required to submit aDeclared Mine Rehabilitation Plan (DMRP) by October 1, 2025 to Earth Resources Regulation, although Great Latrobe Park (GLP) hasjust learnt that AGL Loy Yang has been given atwo-year extension by the state government, to October 1, 2027. The heading structure of the DMRP are largely specified, although the extent of details is not.

The DMRP is also required to be placedfor public comment for aperiod of 60 days prior to submission on October 1, 2025.

GLP understands that Energy Australia Yallourn (EAY) are currently in discussions with the state government aboutwhether they are requiredto conduct an Environmental Effects Statement (EES) in support of their planned rehabilitation plan.

EAY owns three mining licence areas MIN 5003 comprising 5173 Ha, MIN 5216 comprising 152 Ha and MIN 5304 comprising 83 ha totalling 5408 ha (54square kilometres)withinthe mininglicences.

EAY owns other lands outside of their mining licence areas, although the Declared Mine Rehabilitation Plan only relates to those lands within the Mining Licence Areas. In their DMRP, EAY propose that land use comprise:

 Afullpit lake (RL +37 m) requiring 665 Gl of water and covering an area of 1,960 Ha;

 Treated mine batters above the water level;

 Agricultural lands of about 1300 Ha;

 Areas of environmental value;

 Areas of conservation value;

 Preservation and protection of cultural heritage sites;

 Potential recreational lands;

 Reuse of current commercial/industrial lands servicing the business, and;

 Continuation of existing land uses e.g. roads, railway and utilities.

Implications

THE DMRP does not attempttoargue acase for EAY’s intendedsolution(nor is it intended to provide justification). It merely provides the technical data supportingthe currentproposed solution, identifies knowledge gaps and conducts risk assessments (where possible) on residual risks after implementing the intended solution.

In that respect, it should not be signed off until after the project approval process is completed. In Hazelwood’scase, this involves conducting an EES

GLP’sview

THERE has been no public process involving the criteria intended to usetojudge whether any DMRP is acceptable.

GLP believes it would be amorevaluable use of limited communityresources to evaluate the intended criteria used for judging acceptability of DMRP’s.

The level of detail that Yallourn has completed on only one possible solution increasesEAY’s investment in this being the only outcome. The process should show options development and assessment before asinglesolution is adopted This would normally be done through aformal process, such as an EES, therefore, GLP does not want EAY’s DMRP to be approved until:

1. The criteria for acceptance of aDMRPare published and opportunity for public input is provided, and;

2. The options analysis and assessment has been publicly scrutinised.

GLP is prepared to support awell-documented and argued case if that is supplied.

EAY’s DMRP is acaseofputting the cart before the horse.This is not EAY’s fault, they are responding to government requirements.

While EAY’s proposal appearstomeet their legal obligations, it offers nothing to offset the coming financial and social impacts fromthe closure of the brown coal generatingbusinesses.GLP advocates for progressiverelinquishment (release from mining licenceobligations) but only on thebasis that astrategic land useplan is developed(by government) and in placeprior to anyrelinquishment.

The scope of that plan needs to combine the Hazelwood and Yallourn sites (GLP has adraft scope for such aplan). It is inevitable that negotiations will be required between the mine licensees and stateand local governments to affect the processes associated withrelinquishment. It would be advantageous forall if those conversationswere held early and the interests of the Latrobe Valley population were uppermostinthe minds of all parties.

Whatever the outcome fromrehabilitationand repurposing, the Latrobe Valley will live with the consequences for many generations.

Great Latrobe Park (GLP) exists to champion appropriate rehabilitation and repurposing of the existing Latrobe Valley brown coal mine voids.

The National’s energy policy void

COMMENT

BY ADRIAN COSGRIFF

ISAW areport recently that David Littleproud has now pivotedfrom building nuclear power stations to just focussing on lifting the ban. Thus, adding years and years to the construction time of anuclear power fleet.

Now thatthe Coalitionhas officially announced it won't financially back nuclear, one of the most expensive forms of electricity generation, they will havetofind someone that will. In aworldwhere renewable investmentisoutstrippingnuclear at 100:1, that would be atough ask.

During the most recent election campaign, Mr Littleproud and others told us repeatedly that " renewables can't do the job" without any evidence whatsoever to back that claim. He also told us thatnuclearwas cheap despite overwhelming real global evidence to the contrary.

It is very important to note that those who claim renewables can't do thejob havenever produced the engineering data to support such aclaim.

On the contrary, the CSIRO, AEMO and all the major electricity producers in Australia have shown they can. They can all demonstrate how we can move to arenewable energy grid. Backed with facts. Further to that, the evidence is that those power companies are putting their money where their mouth is today.

Now that Mr Littleproud hasbackedawayfrom building nuclear, that means that the National Party has no energy policy at all. Despite the need for power station replacement remaining, the Nats havenow decided to leadwith no policy for the future of electricity in Australia. They've gone from having abad plan (nuclear) to nowhavingnoplan at all.

It seems that they are leavingthe country to its own devices for such acrucial pieceof infrastructure.

Meanwhile, our coal fired power stations continue to age. Regardless of the excuses from the Nats, the reality is that our existing power

stations, who have servedusvery well in the past,are approaching their use by date. Just like any other machine, they haveafinite life and need to be replaced.

Mr Littleproud is now trying to use the need to power AI for his argument. Trouble is, AI is here now and is growingata rapid rate. I'm pretty sure that the AI operators don't want to wait 20,30, 40 plus yearsfor Mr Littleproud's nuclear fantasy.

Renewables and energy storagesystemsare being rolled out across Australia today. They are the fastest to build by acountry mile. We add more than 3GW of domestic solar per year alone. It's awell-establishedindustry and continues to grow year on year. To buildthe same amountofnuclear generation in Australia wouldtakeatleast 20 yearsormore if we started today. And that's after we wait for at least one or two election cycles, wait another few years while we wait for the politicians to argue it out, andthen try and find someone to build what The Nationals no longer want to build.

Twenty years from today is 2045. That would be the first of nuclear fleet at best. Add another 20 to 30 years for acomplete fleet to be built. Trouble is, all of our coal fired power stations will be shut down by around 2035.

What does Mr Littleproudsuggest we do for electricity in the mean time?

Australia simply can't wait for The Nationals to cook up anew story.

Our power stations are on borrowed time. We need action today. It seems the Coalition doesn't understand that andclearly,they don't want to take the advice of theelectorate, the CSIRO, AEMO or any of the major Australian electricity providers. Instead, they appeartobedetermined to spend years wastingtimeand resources achieving nothing at all and being left behind.

Aboutthe author: Adrian Cosgriff is a Traralgon resident.

Traralgon freight and road safety deserves even greater attention

COMMENT BY PETER ANDERSON

REGIONALVictoria is acornerstoneofthe state’s economy,and Traralgonstandsout as akey freight hub in Gippsland, driven by its diverse industrial and agricultural base.

From dairy and timber to energy and manufacturing, the region plays avital role in supporting domestic supply chains and exports.

Yet, despite its economic contribution, Traralgon faces persistentchallenges in transportinfrastructure and road safetythat require more focused attention from policymakers and industry stakeholders.

Last month, the VictorianTransportAssociation hostedaregional forum in Traralgon, bringing together transport operators, regulators and local stakeholders to discuss these issues.

The forum’s theme,“Reducing the Risk Around Heavy Vehicles,” reflected the growingneed to address safetyconcerns in regional freight operations, particularly in areas where infrastructure has not kept pace with the demands of modern logistics.

Heavy vehicles are essential to Traralgon’s supplychain, but they also presentriskswhen operating on roads that were not designed for their size or weight.

Narrow lanes, aging bridges, and limited overtaking opportunities can lead to delays, detours,and increased safetyhazards -not just for freight operators, but for all road users. These challenges are compounded by the long distances between Gippsland and major freight hubs such as Melbourne and the Latrobe Valley, whichplace additional pressure on drivers and vehicles.

While recent policy changes such as payroll tax relief for small businesses are welcome, they do not addressthe coreinfrastructure issues that affect freight efficiency and safety in regional areas.

Investmentinfit-for-purpose roads, bridge upgrades and better connectivity is essential if Traralgon is to continue growing as afreight centre. Moreover, regional operators must be included in broader infrastructure planningefforts, such as thosesurrounding the West Gate Tunnel Project, which will improve access to the Port of Melbourne. Without regional input, such projects risk overlooking the needs of communities that rely heavily on freight transport.

The TraralgonRegional Forum featured presentationsfromkey agencies including the Transport AccidentCommission, Victoria Police, National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, WorkSafe Victoria, Transurban, and WHG Telematics. These sessions provided practical insights into safety, compliance and technology, and offered aplatform for local operators to share theirexperiences and concerns. Improving road safety and transport infrastructure in Traralgon is not just alocal issue-it’sa matter of statewideeconomicresilience. As freight volumes grow and supply chains becomemore complex, regionalcommunities must be equipped with the tools, infrastructure, and support they need to operatesafely and efficiently. About the author: PeterAndersonischief executive of the Victorian Transport Association.

Loads: Transport infrastructurehas been identified as akey issue forthe region.

Photograph: iStock

Grandparentsday

SACRED Heart Primary School,Morwell celebrated Grandparents Day recently.

The grandparents'carers and other special people were warmly invited to come and spend the afternoon participating in afew activities with theirgrandchild/children. There wascupcake and

biscuit decorating, colouring and games. They also had an opportunity to view their grandchildren’s work and projects. The afternoon concluded with the children having the opportunity to spend some time with their grandparents shopping at the bookfairwhich was held in the school library.

ANZ heartfelt donation

ANZ Traralgondonatedaselection of educational toys to Traralgon Toy Library earlier this year.

In aheartwarming gesture of community support, this initiative comes at acrucial time, as many families face the challenges of rising living costs.

ANZ Traralgon, deeply embedded in the local community, recognises the importance of nurturing the next generation.

"We are proud to support the Traralgon Toy Library," arepresentative from ANZ Traralgon said.

"Just as we assist our customerswiththeir banking needs, we are committed to contributing to the wellbeing of our community."

The donated toys have been carefully selectedtofosterthe development of fine motor skills, creativity, logical reasoning, and

problem-solving abilities in children. This collaboration underscores the bank's dedicationto not only financial education but also the overall growth and development of young minds.

The Traralgon Toy Library, abeloved community resource, offers awiderangeoftoys that promote learning and play.

This donation will enhance their collection, providing more opportunities for children to learn and grow.

ANZ Traralgon's contribution is atestament to their commitment to community wellbeing, ensuring that even the youngest people have the tools they need to thrive.

To find out mor e, reach the Traralgo n CommunityToy Library via their Facebook page or email: traralgoncommunitytoylibrary@ gmail.com

Author creativity inspires

ST Paul’s Anglican Grammar School Years 3to6 students were excited to welcomeMelbourne author, George Ivanoff, who shared his love of writing and the journey behind his many published works.

George, the author of more than 100 fiction and non-fiction books for children and teenagers,spoke about his writing process, how he develops ideas andthe importance of planning and editing.

He showed students hisideaand planning notebooks, explaining how he brainstorms freely before organising ideas into astory outline. He also read from his “You Choose” interactive books,

inviting students to vote on the story’s direction, giving them afun taste of interactive storytelling. George encouraged students to findinspirationfor ideas in their everyday lives. He also talked about how drawing has become aregular part of and “an element of fun” in his writing process -especially for visualising story elements like those in “Monster Island".

Facilitated by the Children’sBook Council of Australia, the visitleft students feelinginspired and ready to personalise their learning experience by writing stories of their own.

Friendships fostered through care placements

KELLY Van Den Meiracker’s family has expanded over her 17 years as an Anglicare Victoria carer, with her biological children and care placements “sharing ahome and awhole lot of love”.

Now, she is calling on other Gippsland residents to consider opening their homes to achild with adisability –and consider just how much it will enrich their lives.

DisabilitySpecialist FosterCarerslook after children and young people who are eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), due to physical,developmental,cognitive and sensory disabilities.

“They give me more than they could ever get. Don’t hesitate if you hear that achild has different abilities or complex needs,” Kelly said.

“They’re just kids who need astablefamily

and love. They'relacking nothing,and their differences are last on thelistofwho theyare, they're playful, they're happy, they're resilient.”

Kelly wants peopletoknow they don’t need specific training or qualifications, and will be supported every step of the way.

“Anglicare Victoria has 24 hour support for all carers. And we get extrahelp withany equipment and alltheir therapies they may need,"she said.

“We do havea lot of professionalsinvolved We have workers come in and out and take the kids on activities, and we have respite carers in our network to give me abreak when needed.”

Anglicare’s Specialist Disability Foster Care program,based in Gippsland, providesextensive training, therapeutic support for carers and children, adedicated case manager and 24/7 on

call workers, and critical support to access NDIS services and assessments.

Last year, Anglicare Victoria oversaw foster care for nearly 800 children and young people and is proud to support about 1000 carers across thestate annually.

Foster carers can choose the type of care they canoffer and forhow long –from afew nights to months offering emergency and respite care, short term forweeks or months, or ongoing, long-term care.

For Kelly, one of the most rewarding things about caringfor children with disability is watching them thrive.

“All of the kids have just progressed so much morethan theywereeverexpected to,”Kelly said with asmile.

“Ifyou tell someone they can't do something, then how could they? That doesn't fly around here. Thekids areexpected to live theirbest life, whether it's becomingarocket scientist or being aprofessional moviewatcher.”

Whether you’re married, single, older, younger, withorwithout kids, or in asame-sex relationship, working full time, renting or owning –everyone can make apositive difference to achild’s life. And, Kelly said you can’t imagine the positive impact they’ll make to yours.

“These kids have different abilities,and they addtoyour family, they really do. We're better people because of them.”

To learn more about becoming afoster carer with Anglicare Victoria, email: Gippsland. Carers@anglicarevic.org.au or call 03 5135 9555.

Up close: St Paul’sAnglican Grammar School students,Ava,Paygan-Lily, Ruby,Bosco,Jackson and Vishvak with author George Ivanoffand ‘characters’ from hisbooks Photograph supplied

Generous: ANZ Traralgon donated toys to the Traralgon ToyLibrar y. Photograph supplied

Pop’sday: Shaniqua had agreat dayatSacred Hear twith herpop Photographs supplied

Family: Nan, Myles and Frankie enjoyed many activitiesduring Grandparents and Carers Day at Sacred Hear tPrimar ySchool, Morwell.

Hands-on: From biscuit decorating to games, Liara, granand pa enjoyed all that wasonoffer forGrandparents Day.

Double trouble: Participating in lots of activities forGrandparentsDay wasJindarah and her nan.

Trio: Sienna, auntyJoand Erin enjoyed the daytogether

First 100 days of school

MORWELL Central Primary School prep students raised the bat for their first 100 days of school. Preps dressed up as 100-year-olds to celebrate. Students made crowns, showcasing their 100 days of hard work and great learning. They also rotated around three other activities, drawing 100 bodypartsona ‘100 Monster’, designing a‘100 Days of School’ t-shirt and creatinga gum ball machine with 100 gum balls.The day was topped off with the movie, ‘101Dalmations’and adelicious cupcake each.

Back to rumbling and tumbling

BK'S Gymnastics Traralgon (located within the GippslandRegional IndoorSports Stadium) has reopened.

Major roof works have been completed at the facility, allowing young, local gymnasts to start tumbling again.

The popular gymnastics centre temporarily closed its doors in April this year to allow for essential roof upgrades at GRISS, ensuring asafer and more weather-resistant environment for athletes, staff, and visitors.

With the new roof now in place, BK’s Gymnastics is back and better than ever, ready to welcome the localcommunityback onto the mats.

"We're incrediblyexcited to be reopening and to see our gymnasts back in action," BK's Centre Manager, Julie Johnson said.

“After abrief period at our temporarylocation at ParkLane Church, we are beyond thrilled to welcome the community back to our home centre at the Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium.”

Latrobe City Council has replaced the roof to improve the centre’s insulation, which will help to regulate the inside temperature, as well as installed new lighting.

“We’ve installednew equipment includinga sprung floor and crashmats to provide the best gymnastics experience for childreninour community,” Ms Johnson said.

“We can’t wait to get back to doing what we love -helping kids stay active,learn new skills, and have fun."

BK’sGymnastics offers programs for children from as young as two-years-old through to teens, with classesinrecreational gymnastics and preschool aged programs. With the upgraded facility, families in Traralgon and the broader Gippsland region cancontinue to enjoy quality gymnastics coaching in astate-of-the-art environment.

For more information,visit:https://www.bkgymswim.com.au/bks-gymnastics-traralgon/ or call the centre on 03 5176 3035.

the session

WorldScout Day honours locals

AUGUST 1marked the global celebration of Scouting and recognised adult contributions.

The date is celebrated around the world as World Scout Day, atimeto honour the values, community spirit, andlifelong impact of Scouting.

It is al so the day whe nt he Adu lt Recognition Awards are announced. These prestigioushonours are given to both uniformed members and dedicatedsupporters for their continued service and outstanding commitment to Scouting. These awards are especially meaningful, as nominations come from fellow members, highlighting the deeprespect and appreciation held by their peers.

This year, the Mt Baw Baw District proudly recognised seven excep tional volunteers, whose efforts helped shape, support, and strengthen Scoutinginthe region.

They were:

 David 'Sparky' Morrison, Chris Reeves and Pam Butler, who each received the Silver Wattle Award for their exemplary and sustained service to Scouting;  Shaun Viney was honoured with the Outstanding Service Award for his exceptional contributions to the Caringal Scout Camp, going above and beyond to support youth members and leaders;  Brett and Phoebe Hicks were presented with the Meritorious Service Award for their ongoing leadership and invaluable support at 1st Trafalgar Scout Group, as well as their active involvement in numerous Scouting events, and;  Lucas Wilson received the Special Service Award in recognition of his dedicated event support and behindthe-scenes work that helps Scouting run smoothly.

The Mt Baw Baw District congratulates all recipients and extends heartfelt thanks for their continued dedication to the movement. Their effortsensurethat Scouting remains avibrant,inclusive, and impactful part of the community.

Serious business: BK’sGymnastics participants gather around coach,Chloe to choose a stickeratthe end of

Photograph supplied

Grin: Hudsonhad reason to smile for100 days of school. Photographs supplied

Wise: Phoenixand Irfandressed as oldies for 100daysofschool

We survived: Karter and Matilda wearing special tops celebrating 100daysofschool.

Occasion: Avaand Timothywith100 items on each of their shir ts

Moments: Lillie and Hamish celebrated their first100 days of school

Senior citizens: Morwell CentralPrimar y School preps Djungalahand Levi.

Business Guide

GMACK Electrical Solutions

PtyLtd star tedtheir local business in 2020, offering a great deal of experience from domestic,commercial, rural and industrial electricians

OwnersGlenn Reid and Shawn McAvoyare therefor those who requireelectrical workscompleted by afriendly and professional electrical business at competitiverates

The Churchill-based companypride themselves on being the tradies that call people backwhen work is needed to be done

This work includes services such as:

n Consumer mains upgrades and switchboardupgrades;

n Electrical and smokealarm inspections;

novations in domestic commercial;

n Light and powerinstalls and upgrades/spa faults;

n General fault finding and maintenance;

n Generator changeover switches,and;

n Temporaryconstruction wiring

BULLS for Hire/Sale Angus, Limousin, Jersey, Hereford and Friesian,

Old Port Poultry Farm

Delivering 18 week old Isa Brown, laying hens to your area, Sat. 23 August. $32 each. Ph 0438 832 535.

plus lots more. No early callers please.

Sat and Sun, 8am-4pm. Garage/ open farm house sale. Every item must go. Make an offer. Call Linda 0403 980 539.

Notice to ADVERTISERS and RESPONDENTS

Voicemail introductions advertisements and voice messages may only be submitted by persons 18 years

When

Landscaping Mulch

Beautify your garden. Bulk quantity available, $30m3, $50 delivery. 0412 613 443 or 1800 468 733.

$200 ea. Ph 0408 146 025

STIHL 55cc chainsaw, under warranty $1000. Bosch jackhammer, $60. Old Suzuki 4WD parts, diffs and transfer case, $100 ono. 0459 461 211.

NEWSPRINT REEL ENDS

Newsagents:

Price: $6 each or 2for $11 (GST incl). Available at the Latrobe Valley Express Office 21 George Street Morwell

Enquiries: 5135 4444

Public Notices

Help support our local Tradies while they service, build and repair in our local communities - check out our Business Guide Pages and Home Maintenance Section in the Classifieds every Wednesday for your local Tradies WHEN YOU GO LOCAL, YOUGROW LOCAL!

MARYVALE General Practice will be ceasing operations on Friday 8th August 2025. The practice including the medical records will be taken over by Royal Medical Centre Morwell and will operate from the current site at Maryvale Hospital from Monday 11 August 2025. Please contact the practice if you wish to arrange the transfer of your medical records to anew alternate practice. We require your signed

We PATELCO RP PTY LTDapplied to Liquor Control Victoria on14/6/25 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at: SHOP 1/72 ARGYLE STREET,TRARALGON

Any person may object to the grant of this application on thegrounds that:

•Itwould detract from,orbedetrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises aresituated, and/or:

•Itwould be conducivetoorencouragethe misuse or abuse of alcohol

An objection muststate the reasons for the objection.

All objections aretreated as public documents.

Objections mustbemade in writing to:

Liquor Control Victoria PO Box1019 Richmond VIC 3121

Objectionsmustbemadenolater than 30 days afterthe date of thisnotice.

The Moe RSL Sub-Branch Inc. 63-67 Albert Street Moe, PO Box 83, Vic3825 ABN: 51965 667 895. Inc. A0039367F

VIETNAM VETERANS DAY

The Moe RSL Sub-Branch wishes to inform the community of Moe and surrounds that a short Vietnam Veterans Day service will be held on Monday,18th August.

The 30-minute service will take place at 11:00am at the Cenotaph in front of the Moe RSL.

Awreath-laying ceremony will be conducted by the RSL, and members of the public who have previously notified the Sub-Branch that they wish to do so.

This will be followed by light refreshments in the function room;agold coin donation would be greatly appreciated.

Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING to be held at the Toongabbie Community CentreMeeting Room on Monday 8th September 2025 commencing at 7.30pm. The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or morethan nine (9) personsasthe Committee of Management for the Toongabbie Recreation Reserves Committee for atermofthree years. The current committee’stermwill expire on 12th September 2025.All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds areencouraged. Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy Environment and Climate Action office or atthe meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary,Mark Woods on 5192 4509.

HANDYMAN

General home repairs,

Readytosell

LCC-888 Provision of Line Marking and Surface Retexturing Services

If

DELIVERERS WTD

Would you like to deliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Morwell, Traralgon, Moe, Newborou gh and Churchill? Please apply to the Circulation Manager 0456 000 541. Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Emplo ym ent Pe rmit Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted. Adult deliverers also welcome.

ADVERTISERS

PLEASE NOTE:

Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns. Our Situations Vacant columns are reserved for advertisements which carry aspecific and genuine offer of employment. Ads for `Business Opportunities' and `Training Courses' and `Employment Services' should be submitted under those headings.

Placing misleading ads is an offence against the Trades Practices Act and state/territory fair trading acts and all advertisements are subject to the publisher's approval. For further advice, contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 302 502 or your state consumer affairs agency.

Tenders are invited from suitably qualified contractors for the above.

See www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/tenders for details

Submissions are to be lodged as detailed in the documentation. Councilisnot bound to accept the lowest or any tender

DELIVERERS WANTED TRARALGON and MOE

Would you liketodeliverthe LatrobeValley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesdayand /or Wednesday afternoons in Traralgon and Moe.

Please apply to: The CirculationManager0456000 541

Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernmentChild Employment Permit. Children younger than11 cannot or will notbeaccepted. Adult deliverers also welcome

TRAFALGAR HIGH SCHOOL

Education Support Integration Aide

Trafalgar High School is seekinga reliable and enthusiastic person foranEducation Support Integration Aide role in the classroom. Experience workingwith students is preferred but notessential.

Please apply on DETRecruitment Online, Job ID: 1486615

Formoreinfor mationplease contact: Jack Brown, Assistant Principal PH:5633 1733 or email trafalgar.hs@education.vic.gov.au

announceme nts in the paper and sa

Classifieds 5135 4455 -classifieds@lvexpress.com.au

Maintenance Electrician

•5WKRotating Roster |AM&PMShift Mix

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•Great Hourly Rate +Loading |Joinaglobal dairy company •Tools and Unifor mProvided| Darnum location. Join adynamic maintenance team in our 24/7 milk powder facility.Use your electrical expertise to deliver preventative maintenance, troubleshoot breakdowns,and support high-tech equipment, includingPLCsand motors.W ithastrongfocus on safety, reliability,and continuous improvement, this hands-on role offers variety,growth, and the chance to work with cutting-edge automation in a fast-paced environment. What you’ll bring Youwillneed to be aregistered A-grade electrician with acurrent practising licence. Please refertofull PositionDescription forother beneficial skills and experience. Join Fonterra Australia For Position Description and to apply: https://careers.fonterra.com/careers/JobDetail? jobId=11729&source=Fonterra.com Contact: Meheret.hailemelekot@fonterra.com

Applications close: 30 August 2025.

Customer Service Consultant

Remote Work Opportunity

Join us in supporting local Water Authorities.

Required:

• Strong customer serviceskills

• Homeoffice with high-speed inter net is crucial.

Responsibilities include:

• Responding to fault enquiriesand completing admin tasks.

• Availability required: 7days aweek, shift times from 5pm to 9am.

• Weekend availability essential;

• Residency in Gippsland region necessary Traits sought: Reliability,adaptability, excellent communication.

Apply now by emailing: hr@oraclecms.com

APPRENTICESHIPS

COMMENCING JANUARY2026

LoyYang BPower Station in partnership with Programmed Ski lled Wo rkfor ce ar es ee ki ng fir st yea ra pp re nt ic es to commence in January 2026 in the fo ll owi ng trades:

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Based at Loy Ya ng BP ow er Station in Tr aralgon, yo uw ill work with an

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Lo yYan gBi sa thermal power station comprising two ele ctri city genera tin gu ni ts wh ich toge the r pr ov ide up to 1,2 00M Wo fb ase loa dp owe ra nd supp ly approx imate

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We ’re looki ng for moti vat ed appli cant s with a genuin e interest in starting atrade career in industry.You must be willing to complete afour-year apprenticeship and have strong basic maths and liter acy skills. ACerti fic ate II or pr e-appr enticeship course in the re levant trade would be highly re gar ded but is not man datory Loy Ya ng Ba re ac ult ura lly divers ee mp loyer and welcom ea pp li ca tio ns fr om people with dif fer ent ba ckgr ounds ,e xper ie nce sa nd pe rs pec tives HOW TO APPLY?

For further information and to applyplease visit Programmed’swebsite by scanningthe QR code below or using thefollowing web address: https://go.programmed.com.au/job/details/70074

Cars •

2010 AUDI A5 2door coupe. Quattro v/g cond. FOB Keys x2. $17750. RWC. YHE-011. Phone 0401 609 389.

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Apply Now!

St Paul’s Anglican GrammarSchool is seeking applications for the following positions:

DirectorofEarly Learning Centre

Warragul Campus

Full-time, ongoing contract

Japanese Teacher

Warragul Secondary School

Full-time, ongoing contract

Classroom Teacher

Traralgon Junior School

Full-time, fixed term contract

Casual Relief Teachers

Traralgon Campus

Commencing as soon as possible

See full position descriptions and apply at stpaulsags.vic.edu.au

Selling avan?

Don't

Careers at Latrobe

Location: Maryvale Mill

The Position

Opportunitiesnow exist for temporary production workers for an initial period of 6months. Successful applicants may be required to work in either day work or shift work positions.

To be considered for these positions applicantsmust:

Have ademonstrated commitment to OH&S

Have apositive attitude

Be flexible and capable of working as part of ateam

Have previous experience or willingness to work shift work

Haveareliable employment history

Be able to perfor mmanual duties within aproduction environment.

As partofthe selectionprocesscandidates willberequired to takepartina range of aptitude testing includingverbal, numerical and mechanical comprehension.

How to apply:

Youmust submit aresume and cover letterclearly outlining:

-Pastemployment history

-Qualifications, tickets and licences held

-Atleast two referees including their positiontitle,company and contact number

Please email the above to hr.admin@opalanz.com Applications close: Friday15August 2025

• Planning Compliance OfficerTemporary Full Time

• Assistant MunicipalFirePrevention Fire Officer- Casual

• BoxOfficeSupervisor– Permanent Part Time Front of HouseSupervisorPermanent Full Time • CoordinatorBusinessDevelopment

PermanentFullTime

• Experienced MaintenanceEmployee Roads- Permanent Full Time RatesOfficer - PermanentFullTime • LearntoSwimInstructor- Casual • Childcare Worker -Diploma Qualified - Multiple permanentand temporar ypositions

Worker

HADLAND Harold John Until we meet again, always in my heart. "I'll see ya when Isee ya Chris, Lourdes, Noah, Jacob, Ishaq, Idris, Ryu, Louisse and Isabella.

HADLAND Harold Aged 87 years Close to our hearts you will always stay, loved, cherished and never forgotten. Love always. David, Josefin, Vada and Penelope.

Deaths •

CHAPMAN Patricia (Pat) Passed away peacefully at LRH, Tuesday 5August 2025. Loving husband of John for 64 years. Loving mother, mother-in-law, nan and great nan of Shaun, Mui, Michael, Brett, Brodie, Bon nie ,B obby and Brayden, Brian, Julie, Emily, Jack and Morgan.

HADLAND Harold In memory of my father, a man who taught me 'Go dream big and never give up.' Our memories will never fade. Till we meet again. Love Michael and Teagan. May you rest in peace Pop Love Maya, Savannah and Mackenzie. XOXO

HOWLAND (nee Taylor) Ruth Stella 14/7/1962 -4/8/2025

goodbye as you depart. This is not goodbye forever, but rather until we meet again one day. Rest in peace Mum and Nan. Forever in our hearts love Brian, Julie, Emily, Jack and Morgan XXX

FIELD Felicity Anne 17/12/1936 -24/7/2025 Passed away peacefully at Latrobe Regional Health Thursday 24 July aged 88 years. Eldest daughter of Eric and Phyllis (both dec.). Loved sister of Prue and Mike, and aunt of Kirstie and Susie. Following aprivate burial in Melbourne there will be aThanksgiving Service in Morwell at 2pm MONDAY (18 August) at Eternity Church, 69 Princes Drive. This is to be televised live and can be seen at: https:/m.facebook .com/eternitymorwell

In lieu of flowers or other tributes Felicity expressed awish for adonation to be made to Mission Without Borders (mwb.org.au}. She will be greatly missed.

HADLAND Harold John

Passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family aged 87 years.

Loving husband to Delia. Loving father of Taryn, Luke, Chris, Nadia, David, Michael and Shaena Grandfather of 19, Greatgrandfather of 2. Forever in our hearts and will be missed by all.

HADLAND Harold John.

In loving memory of my father It's with great sadness, we announce the passing of my father. His spirit departed peacefully surrounded by his family 8August 2025. His strength, wisdom, love, laughter and compassion will remain in our hearts forever. You fought ahard battle, rest in peace now, forever in our thoughts. Taryn, Adam and Pauline.

HADLAND Harold John

He was adevoted father and pop to his grandchildren whose tireless work ethic and steadfast morals shaped not only my life, but the lives of his children and grandchildren. He taught me what it means to be aman of principle and great ambition. Iwill cherish our conversations and miss them deeply. His lessons will live on within us. Thank you for instilling in me great importance and pride in our name and heritage. We will love and miss you always. Forever in our hearts Dad. Love always Luke, Natasha, Nicolletta, Sebastian, Anastasia, Lilliella, Madeleleine, Indy

MANLEY Hannah Maria Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at Latrobe Regional Health, Traralgon Friday 8 August, 2025. Aged 58 years Dearly loved wife of Brian. Much loved Mum of Jonny, Lisa, Timothy ,and Alex and there partners. Adored Oma of Riley, Addam, Zackry, Tomas, Ares and Leon. Very much loved Aunty of all her nieces and nephews. With tears we watched you suffer, and watched you fade away, with courage and concern for others, you fought so hard to stay. But God saw that you were weary and did what he thought best. He gently took you in his arms, and whispered come and rest. It happened so quickly, it's hard to understand, one day you were with us, the next day in Gods hand. We all love you Mum.

LAPPIN

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Marian Patricia Rose Lappin.

Born 19th of April 1963. Passed away on 7August 2025, at Peter Macallum Hospital Beloved wife of Paul. Cherished mother of Grace and Ruby. Mother in Law to Craig. Grandmother to Harriet. Loved daughter of Monica and Terry. Sister to Cathy, Anne, Jane, Peter ,Gerard, Damian, Andrew, Greg, Clare and Mathew. An extraordinary partner, mother, sister, friend, aunty and teacher. Our hearts are broken at the loss of our beautiful Marian. Her radiant smile and legacy of kindness and care for everyone she met will remain in our hearts forever.

LUCAS (Webb) Joan Passed away peacefully at Andrews House, Trafalgar on 5August 2025. Aged 83 years

Dearly loved wife of Herb (dec). Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Ray and Chitra, Phil and Karen. Adored and loved Nana of Jessica, Cameron, Meganand Saarsha Close to our hearts you will always stay, Loved and remembered every day. Mum and Dad Reunited

LUCAS Joan Passed away 5August 2025.

Loved Aunt of Raelene and David. Sister-in-law of Merle and Les (both dec.). Aunt Joan will happily tend the gardens of Heaven.

MANLEY Hannah 13/3/1967 -8/8/2025

Iamsolost and broken now your gone. Iwill miss you more than ever, especia lly our cheeky 10am wild turkey cans and catch ups. Now you're free and not in pain. I'm so glad you were such abig part of my life. Always and forever Your friend Melissa.

MARSLEN (nee Hunt)

Margaret Jane 3/1/1924 -6/8/2025 Aged 101 1/2 years Passed away peacefully at O'Mara House Aged Care Facility with family by her side.

Loving wife of James (Jim) (dec.).

Dearly loved mother of Shirley and Terry (dec.), friend of Wally, Brendon and Annette, and Kevin and Carol.

Adored Nana, GreatNana (oldie) and Great-greatNana to her grandchildren. Rest in Peace.

MAY Zbigniew (Stan) 14/3/1947 -4/8/2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected news of Zbigniew "Stan" May, aged 78 years. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family.

Son of Stanislaw and Maria (both dec.). Loved husband of Laurentia. Dearly loved father to Aaron, Laurence, Adam and Marissa Beloved Opa to Rahni, Mylah, Duke, Caitlin and Patrick.

MAY Brian The Board, Bowls Committee and Members of the Traralgon Bowls Club express their sorrow at the passing of Brian. Our thoug hts and condolences are with the May family during this sad time.

MANLEY (Liet) Hannah Loved niece to David and Rhonda. Wife of Brian.

Sincere condolences to her family and friends. Reunited with Oma Bea, Johnny and brother Burnie. Rest peacefully, your journey in this life is done. Forever in our thoughts and prayers. Rest In Peace

Caravans •

MEDEW David Wesley

6/5/1930 -6/8/2025

Dearly loved son of Jackie and Nell Medew (both dec.). Loving husband of Betty (dec.) and Vera (dec.). Loving brother of Elvie (dec.) and Ron (dec.). Loved Uncle to his many nieces and nephews.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dave on 6/8/25 peacefully in his sleep in his 95th year surrounded by his loving family at St Hilary's Aged Care in Morwell.

Dearly loved husband of Betty and Vera (both dec.)

Much loved father and father-in-law of Colin and Robyn.

Grandad to Danny, Jess, Penny and Leigh. Great grandad to Brodie, Hailey, Gracie, Lauren and Ollie.

Reunited with Mum (Betty).

Forever in our hearts

Passed away peacefully on 6August 2025 at St Hilary's Aged Care.

Dearly loved father of Rayle ne and Jimm y.

Much loved Grandad of Courtney, Christopher and Louise. Great Grandad of Samuel, Zali and Charlotte.

Resting peacefully

Forever in our hearts

Loving stepfat her of Julianne and Ian, Rosslyn and Steven and Karen.

Much loved grandfather of Matthew (dec.), Nicholas, Renee, Ben, Rebecca and Alexandra. Great grandfather to Teddy, Henry, Aimee and Charlie, Kieran, Liam, Norah and Neave and Billy.

Loved andRemembered Every day

MEULEMAN

Jean Marrie

Passed away peacefully at Bright Access Warragul, 3 August 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Aged 51 years. Dearly loved and loving daughter of Barbara and Eric. Adored sister of Matthew and Michelle.

PRESTON (Harris) Nancy Grace Passed away peacefully 9/8/2025.

Aged 93 years Loved and loving wife of John (dec.). Mother of Lynne, mother-in-law of Bernie. Grandmother of Michael and Joelen, Kate and Simon, Steve and Lynda, Dan and Jesse. Great grandmother of 8. Always In our hearts

SMITH Pauline

Born 12 March 1956. Passed away 4August 2025. We are heartbroken to announce that our beautiful wife, mum, nan, sister and friend passed away 4 August 2025.

Aged 69 years

Dearly loved wife of Gary. Much loved mum of Kylie and Garry. Loving mother-in-law of Adam. Adored nan of Lachie and Caitlin. Much loved sister of Robert (dec.), Linda (dec), Rhonda and Donna.

Loved sister in law of Paul.

You were someone special, someone good and true, you will never be forgotten, we thought the world of you. You fought so hard for those you loved, you always did your best, you fought until you could no more, and now you are at rest. Sadly missed XOXO

YATES Geoffrey Ian "Jumbo"

Passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family Monday 4August 2025.

Aged 68 years

Loving husband of Lynette. Loving dad and mate of Brendan, Cory, Lachy and Jess. Devoted Pop of Adelyn, McKenna, Charlie and Sophie. Though his smiles are gone forever, and his hand we cannot touch, we shall never lose the memories, of one we loved so much.

YATES Geoffrey Ian (Jumbo) Passed away 4/8/2025. Love db rot he ra nd brother-in-law of Lynn and Colin. Loved Uncle Jum of Aaron, Mark and Tania and Jarrod. Great Uncle of Logan, E.J., Angus, Noah and Izzy. Sadly Missed Gone Fishing

YATES Geoff (Jumbo)

Sending our love to Lyn, Brendan, Cory, Lachy, Jess and families. Jumbo will be greatly missed by us all. Morwell East Scout Group.

Funerals •

HADLAND

The Funeral Service for Mr Harold Hadland will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Ave Newborough, WEDNESDAY (20 August 2025) commencing at 1.30pm. The Funeral will leave at the conclusion of the Service for the Yallourn Cemetery.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

HOWLAND

The Funeral Service for Mrs. Ruth Howland will be held at Handley &Anderson Cha pel, 30 85 Lo chWonthaggi Rd, Wonthaggi on FRIDAY (August 15, 2025) commencing at 2pm. APrivate Cremation will follow. For livestreaming go to: www.handley andandersonfunerals .com.au

LUCAS AService to celebrate the life of Mrs Joan Lucas will be held at St Andrew's Uniting Church, Contingent St, Trafalgar, THURSDAY (14 August 2025) at 11am. At the conclusion of the Service the cortege will leave for the Trafalgar Cemetery.

MANLEY The funeral service and committal for cremation for Mrs Hannah Manley will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy Traralgon MONDAY (18 August 2025) commencing at 2pm.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MARSLEN The Funeral Service for Mrs Margaret Marslen will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Avenue Moe, FRIDAY (15 August 2025) commencing at 10.30am. The Funeral will leave at the conclusion of the Service for the Willow Grove Cemetery. Margaret's service will also be livestreamed.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MAY Friends and family are invited to the funeral of Zbigniew "Stan" May at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 50-54 Monash Rd Newborough TUESDAY (19th of August 2025) commencing at 1pm. Foll owing the servi ce, funeral will proceed to the Moe Cemetery.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MEDEW

The Funeral Service for Mr David Wesley Medew will be held at St Andrews Presbyterian Church, 50 Church Street Morwell on THURSDAY (14 August 2025) at 11am. The Funeral will leave at the conclusion of the Service for the Hazelwood Cemetery, Brodribb Road Hazelwood.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MEULEMAN The funeral service and committal for cremation for Jean Meuleman will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6O llerton Avenue Newborough on MONDAY (18 Aug us t2 02 5) commencing at 1.30pm. Jean's service will also livestreamed. To view the livestream please visit: latrobevalley funerals.com.au and click on livestreaming.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

PRESTON APrayer Service of Thanksgiving of the life of Mrs Nancy Grace Preston will be held at Traralgon Uniting Church, 19-29 Park Lane, Traralgon on TUESDAY (19 August 2025) commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of the Service the Funeral will leave for the Traralgon Cemetery, Gippsland Memorial Park. Nancy's Service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream, please visit our website.

SMITH The Funeral of Mrs Pauline Smith will be held at the Latrobe Valley Funeral Serv ices Chap el, 6 Ollerton Avenue Moe, THURSDAY (14 August 2025) at 11am. At the conclusion of the service the Funeral will leave for the Moe Memorial Park Cemetery. At Pauline's request can we all wear atouch of blue and bright colours, Pauline requests no black to be worn.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

YATES The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation of Mr Geoffrey Ian Yates will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy, Traralgon WEDNESDAY (13 Aug us t2 02 5) commencing at 11am. It was Geoffrey's wish that people wear fishing shirts in his honour.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

CRANWELL, Max. 7/11/1941 -11/8/2009. HARRIS (Cranwell) Leanne. 1/2/1971 -11/8/2009. We miss you both so much. Times moves on, but our love and memories of you both never dims. Phyllis, Chris, Maddison, Th om as, Ti m, Don na, Melissa, Amanda, Cooper, Jordyn, Bella, Abbi, Hudson and Charlie.

GALL Joan

11/10/1936 -16/8/2024

Our darling Mum, we can't believe it's been 12 months since we have seen your smile, heard your voice or had a cuddle. We all miss you so much. Your loving family XXXX

KELLY Clyde Passed away 15/8/1987

KELLY Lillian Passed away 23/2/1962

Remembering with love Nellie, John and family.

ROSATO Maria 14/8/1997

ROSATO Giuseppe 14/8/2012 Mum and Dad, Another year goes by. Memories never fade. Forever in my heart. Your loving daughter Angela and Cesare.

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SUTTON Morris (Maurie) 12/7/2025

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

Always in our hearts, love always your wife Valerie and Daryl and families. Thank you everyone that attended the funeral and sent bereavement cards.

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Placeyour personal message in the Latrobe ValleyExpress and share your memories

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In Memoriam •

Finals reward after last minute strike

HOCKEY

LVHA

BY LINDA REID

LATROBE Valley Hockey Association's Vic League girls hit the road to Frankston last Saturday riding awave of momentum, determined to build on their impressive form.

Supporters were promisedagripping contest -and the teams didn’t disappoint.

Frankston struck first, hitting the scoreboard early to seize the advantage. But the visitors wasted no time hitting back. Aslick short-corner routine between MaddyHall and Claire Cake carved open the Frankston defence, with Hall slotting the equaliser to bring the game back level.

With the scores locked deep into the final minutes, the match was there for the taking. That’s when Ella Trevorrow produced a momentofmagic.Anticipating aFrankston pass, Trevorrow pounced on the intercept, outpaced adefender, and coolly rounded the goalkeeper before slotting home the winner.

The 2-1 triumph notonly cemented the girls’ position in the top four but also guaranteed them aplaceinthe finals. With their confidence soaringand key players stepping up in the clutch, the Vic League girls look well-placed to make aserious run at the title as the season heads into itsdecisive stages.

Despite team woes, Melbourne having career-best season

BASKETBALL

WNBA BY BLAKE

METCALF-HOLT

POSTAll Star break,Traralgon’s Jade Melbourne and her Washington Mystics have begun to flounderagain as the2025 WNBA season resumed.

The Mystics have just two wins from eight gamesfollowing on from the midseason bye period, sitting fourth in the Eastern Conference at awin-loss record of 13-16.

Beforethe All Star break, Washington were ticking upwards, winners of eight of their previous 13 games, includingtwo three-game win streaks.

Melbourne is seeing the biggest role of her youngWNBAcareer,averaging acareerbest 23.5 minutes per game, including five starts for the season -she had previously never started aWNBA game.

During the Mystics’ winning period in which they were winners from six of seven games, Melbourne started in three of those.

As arole player that is first off the bench otherwise, Melbourne is identified and highlighted for her defensive prowess.

The Traralgon stariscurrentlyaveraging 6.2 points, 2.6 assists, two rebounds,and 0.6 steals per game across 28 appearances.

Washington have 12 games left in the regular season to hold on to or improve their current standing ahead of the WNBA playoffs.

TheMystics haven’t made the postseason since2023, while Melbourne hasyet to feature in the playoffs since arriving in the WNBA three seasons ago.

Final stopover for special season

SOCCER LVSL BY JOHN CARDONA

MOE UNITED Soccer Club held its seniorvote count in the club's social room last Sunday.

The club'sgolden boot and LVSL golden boot winner, Connor O'Hanlon won the senior men's count with 36 votes, while the runner-up sprung asurprise result with Riley Winkleman polling 22 votesdespite playingonlyseven games out of the 16 leagueseason games.

Third place went to the ever-reliable Chad Shelley with 19 Votes and fourth place to Oscar 'The Star' Sceney.

Coach Lee Dastey never lost faith in what football thissenior side could produceduring the league season, when sceptics thought the 2025 league championship had disappeared after abad loss to TraralgonOlympians and the nextweek's draw against Sale United at home.Dastey continued to push the side to strive and win every game for the remainder of the season and let other results take careofthemselves.Asitwas with those remaining Moe United games, the Red Devils won their last six games(scoring 32 goals and conceding only two) while Traralgon Olympians had three without awin to give Dastey's side their come from behind ninth league champions title afterfour frustrating league seasons -one which was denied due to COVID.

 THE reserves best-and-fairest was won by Michael Melynczenko with 27 votes.

League and club golden boot winner,Harley Robinson finished runner-up with 23 votes while Chris Papanikolaou finished third on 19 votesand Tom Portelli came fourth with 16.AFTER ahighest league finish since 2016 with athird place on the woman's league ladder and only two defeats to the much highly rated Sale United, the Moe United Woman's team had much to celebrate.

One of the wonder twins in Summer Cooperwon the best-and-fairest with 40 votes,while Tiani Reddlex was runner-up on 30.

Equal third was Miley Cooper and Rebbecca Van Der Koogh (27 votes).

Coach Harley Robinsonsent out abig congratulations to the girls on the improvement once again from the previous seasons. Itoo wish to say (once the cup has concluded), Ilook forward to being able to supportthem to be asuccessful combinationfrom behind the fences as akeen spectator.

 GEDD Heusmann won the third division best-and-fairest, as well as golden boot.

Heusmann polled 19 votes, five clearofrunner-up Zane Poxton.JaxtonCowton and Ash Huber came equal-third.

White keeping busy on the global stage

BASKETBALL

FIBA ASIA CUP

BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

AUSTRALIA has moved into the quarter finals of the FIBA Asia Cup after sweeping the group stage that launched the competition last week in Saudi Arabia,with the Boomers shooting for three successive gold medals.

Traralgon’s JackWhitewas selectedtothe Boomers squad, after aperiod on the sidelines thatdidn’t allowhim to don the greenand gold during qualification games.

Having won the previous two gold medals at the Asia Cup, anddisplayed dominance during the qualifiers (for which Traralgon hosted two matches last February), entering as the clear cut favourite to take out gold yet again.

White is chasing his first gold medal for Australia in senior competition.

While this is the first outing for newly-instated Boomers coach Adam Caporn, who took over from Olympic bronze medal coach Brian Goorjian, White still has familiar names on the bench, with Melbourne Unitedhead coach Dean Vickerman an assistant for Australia’s Asia Cup run.

The Boomers campaign began against afamiliar opponent, Korea, whom they played in the qualifiers, with Australia starting off well with a97to 61 finish.

Proceedings started off relatively competitive, withthe margin kept closefor amajorityofthe opening term beforethe Boomers leapt ahead to lead by eightpointsatthe first break.

Thatgap went even widerasplay resumedin the second quarter, as Australia entered halftime up 48-31.

While Korea attempted to gain momentumas they returned to the court, the Boomers responded every time, and subsequently extended their lead to its largestpoint by the time the final buzzer sounded.

In White’sfirst official hit out for Australia since the 2023 FIBA World Cup, he producedfive points, an equalteam-high eight rebounds, and oneassist in close to 19 minutes of action.

The Boomers had acloser affairagainst Lebanon in their next game, still winning 93-80.

Australia were comfortably ahead through three quarters, leading by 24 points heading into the final turn, however, Lebanon finished the match with a20-9final quarter, bringing some scares to the green and gold.

White had six points, 10 rebounds and an assist in 18 minutes during that game.

The day after, Australia easily dispelled of Qatar, 110-82, despite ahotly contested first half.

The Boomersheld just athree-pointlead heading into the main break, before they returned with added fire to produce a64-39 second half.

White had four points,five reboundsand two steals across 18 minutes in that outing. With the match between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines happening afterthe Express goes to print, Australia play the winner of that game tonight (Wednesday, August 11).

 ELSEWHERE, White has put pen to paper on adeal for the upcoming season, and it's not in the NBL.

White has signedwith Turkish basketball club, Mersin MSK,which competes in Turkey's Basketball Super League.

Last season, MersinMSK lost in thequarter finals of the playoffs after finishing in sixth on the standings during the regular season.

Thatteam featured Australian Will Magnay, who had abrief stint with New Orleans Pelicansinthe NBAin2021, and is currently White's teammate on the Boomers.

The Traralgon star returned to Melbourne United for the 2024-2025 NBL season, after two years in the NBA system.

White won an NBA championship with Denver Nuggetsin2023, before featuringinthe G-League (reserves competition) for amajority of the following season.

He was given a10-day contract from Memphis Grizzlies in the final week of the 2023-2024 season, before signing with United where he won an NBL title in 2021 (missed closing stretch due to achilles injury).

Whitewas akey part in Melbourne United's run to the grand finallastseason, averaging13.3points and 8.9 rebounds per game.

They would ultimately fall to Illawarra Hawks in tight five-game series.

After declininghis playeroption in his United contract, White mostrecently suited up for German basketballclub, FC Bayern Munich, where he won aBasketball Bundesliga championship in just three months with the squad.

The Turkish Basketball Super League begins in October,which is also its 60th anniversaryseason

Flying: Traralgon’sJackWhiteand the Australia Boomershaveadvanced to the quar terfinals of the FIBAAsia Cup aftera threegamesweep in the group stage Photograph supplied

Trio: MoeUnitedSoccer Club senior men’sbest-and-fairest, Connor O’Hanlon, coach Lee Dastey and runner-up RileyWinkleman. Photograph supplied

United through to home grand final

BASKETBALL

BIG V BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

TRARALGON will host aBig VGrand Final in two weeks’ time after Gippsland United men edged past Coburg, 97 to 90 in overtime.

Welcoming the GiantstoGippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium, ahealthy crowd showed out for United’s semi final as they fought back from apoor start to book their spot in the Division 1big dance.

Coburg were forced to play in the first week of finals, knocking off Whittlesea, 110-86,due to United stealing the top spot on the ladder in the final weeks of the regular season,which includedadefeat of the Giants in the penultimate round at GRISS.

Now, with added stakes, pressure mounted for both sides, hoping to avoid apreliminary final this weekend.

Proceedings began well for United, who after trailing in the early stages of the first quarter, shot out ahead thanks to an 11-point unanswered run through to the first break.

Their 21-14 lead was set up through toughdrives to the rim, resulting in early foul calls on Coburg. That ultimately played afactor later in the game, with multiple starters and bench players for the Giants getting into serious foul trouble in the critical stages.

Coburg bounced back as the second quarter began, tying up the ballgame within minutes through poise in their jump shots.

While the Giants continued on their run, United

were unable to keep up and get themselves going, resulting in a22-4sustained run, seeing the Gippsland side trail by double digits suddenly.

Alarm bells began to quiet as United finished the first half with a6-1 run to keep the margin at six points heading into the main break.

As play resumed, scores went back and forth for most of the opening to the third quarter,which only meantthat United were unable to shrink their deficit.

Momentum began to shift the way of the home side, which was led by captain Ben Barlow, whodrove to the rim on multiple possessionsfor tough scores

Jordan Gooiker then chipped in with back-to-back trips converting on three-point attempts, and all of asuddenthe game was tied 46-all.

Coburg responded after this quickburst from United to scorethe next seven points, only for United to answer back with six straight points.

TheGiants’ Carlo Camp made amidrangeshot just beforethe three quarter time buzzer sounded to see Coburg ahead, 55-51.

Despiteappearing as though United were building, as the fourth quarterbegan, the Giants were the ones to cease their chances.

Coburg went ahead by 10 points through the first four minutes of the final term, before Unitedawoke from their slumber.

Kody Tibballsscoredonfourstraight possessions for Gippsland, cutting the margin to five points, but the Giants responded to extended it back to nine.

Joel Winderlich then joined in on the party for United, with his individual run cutting the deficit

to two points with threeminutes remainingin regulation.

Despite getting closerand closer, Coburgcontinued to answer, only as United’s Jalin Wimberly tied up the game with aminute left.

Thanks to some free throws and another conversion from Winderlich, United held aone-point lead with 18 seconds remaining.

Things looked even better for United when Barlow was fouled on athree-point attempt, sending him to the charity stripe for three free throws.

Making two of three, Coburgcalledtimeout to advance the ball and set up aplay.

In acruel,yet ironic twist of fate, Camp was then fouled on his own three-point attempt, giving him the opportunitytotie the game up for the Giants with just two seconds remaining on the clock.

Sinkingall three, the scoreboard read 81-all, with Unitednow calling time out, but with dissimilar fortunesasWimberly missed the potential gamewinner on the buzzer.

As such, spectators were treated to extra basketball with anotherfive minutes added to clock for overtime.

Matthew Baggio started things well for Coburg withadriving layup, only for United to respond through Wimberly who tipped in his own miss off the rim.

Play went back-and-forth, only for United to create separation by getting to the freethrowlineonmore than oneoccasion, resulting in asix-point lead with 50 seconds remaining.

United would ultimately come out on top, despite

not making afield goal in the final two and ahalf minutes of play, as they shot 12 free throws in the dying stretch of the game.

Wimberlytop-scoredfor United with 24 points, grabbing 13 rebounds, and dishing off three assists.

Winderlich was next best with 19 points and 14 rebounds, while Tibballs had 19 points off the bench.

Coburg will nowplay Warrandyte at Coburg Basketball Stadium this Saturday night to determine who plays United in the grand final.

 ELSEWHERE, Gippsland United women were forced to travel in an effort to clinch agrand final spot.

United unfortunately lost to Keysborough,77-74 at Rowville Secondary College, thus pushing United into ahome preliminary final this Saturday night against Wallan.

The Gippsland side had their opportunities, holding anine-point lead at halftime, and still a five-point lead at three quarter time.

United were undone by being outscored by 12 points in the second half however, they were still in apositiontowin rightupuntil theend of the game

Shantelle Torburn missed agame-tying threepointer on the buzzer.

Captain Lauren Tuplin led United in scoring with 22 points and also grabbed nine rebounds. Alahna Arnason (16 points and 11 rebounds) and Olivia Ouchirenko (14 points) were also solid contributors.

Gippsland United women host Wallan at GRISS this Saturday nightfrom 7pm for aspotinthe Division 2women grand final.

Redsox, Bravesfeature in absolute baseballthriller

BASEBALL

LVBA BY

RENAE GILLETT

TWO dramatic contests lit up the Latrobe Valley baseball scene on Sunday, withJordan Gilmore poweringthe Traralgon Redsox to acomeback win over Churchill Braves in AGrade,while Sale Rangers edged Moe/Newborough Dodgers in a walk-off nail-biter at Morwell.

Gilmore was unstoppable at the plate, driving in five runs on threehits to lead Traralgon Redsox to a9to5victory over Churchill Braves at Kevin Lythgo Reserve.

Gilmore wastednotime, singling in the firstinning to score two runs and later addinganothertwo-run single in the eighth as part of afive-run explosion

GOLF

CHURCHILL ANDMONASH

3Person Ambrose 2nd August 2025.

Winners: D. Byers/M. Lugton/P.Kearns

63.833 Nett

AGrade: N. Erasmus 69 Nett

BGrade: G. Harvey76Nett

CGrade: T. Collins 76 Nett

D.T.L: 1. T. Collins/A. Auld/B.Kilday66.833, 2. D. Shields/P.Flanigan/C.Sterrick67.333 Nett, 3. J. Sands/C.Waring/G. Barnes

68.833 Nettc/b

N.T.P: 3rdD.Byers,5th C. Waring,12th A. Auld (Propin), 14th M. Brereton

Women’sMonthly Medal (Stroke) Tuesday 5th August 2025.

Medal Winner: S. Caldwell 74 Nett

ScratchWinner: S. Caldwell 98

Putts: V. Reid 27

D.T.L: M. Dear 81 Nett

N.T.P: 3rdS.Caldwell, 5th V. Reid,12th M. Dear,14th C. Carder

MIRBOONORTH

Tuesday, 5th August, Stableford, A, Grade: MPayne (11) 37pts

BGrade: TomTraill (18) 33pts

DTL: SDuff37, NRutledge 36, BBradshaw 33, SMcKenzie 32. NTP: 4th SDuff, 6th TBradshaw, 13th N Whichello,16th NRutledge Birdies: 6th TBradshaw, 16th NRutledge, Saturday9th August, Stableford, AGrade: PWoodall(10)37pts

BGrade: NDuncan (15) 33pts

CGrade: SMcKenzie (22) 38pts

DTL: RFelmingham 36, GRenwick, D Felmingham, MPayne 35, Cayden Gunn 34.

NTP: 4th JColeman, 6th RFelmingham, 13th PWoodall, 16th BBradshaw, Birdies: 4th TimTraill, 6th PDraper,T Baker,Cayden Gunn, 16th PDraper,S Duff, GShandley, Hole in One: RFelmingham 6th hole

TRAFALGAR

Friday,August 8th, Open Men’s&Ladies

Stableford

AGrade Winner: Adrian Jones 35 pts C/B

BGrade Winner: Jeff Gray 38 pts C/B

DTL's: Darryl Blackshaw38, Andrew

that flipped the gameonits head.Luke Hornstra delivered the knockoutblowinthat inning with a two-RBIdouble.

Churchill Braves struck first, with Gregg Duncan and DylanEldridge each driving in arun in the top of the first. Tim Bellerby’s second-inningdoubletied thegame at 3–all, and Churchill regained the lead in the seventh after Dan Cannizzaro’s RBI single and abases-loaded walk by Jarrod Thomas made it 5-3 But the Redsox answered emphatically in the eighth, combining timely hits and patientplate appearances to surge ahead.

Hornstra also started on the mound for Traralgon, goingeightinnings and striking out nine while allowing five runs (four earned). Bellerby pitched the opening framefor Churchill,giving up three runs (two earned) on three hits.

Shearing 37,Peter Griffin35, Warwick Griggs 35, Craig Radford35, Chris Brydon 34, Greg Beyer34, Graeme Jarvis 34, Craig Scanlon 34

Birdies: 2nd: Graeme Jarvis,Craig Radford 11th:RyanMortimer,Ray Wiseman 15th: StephenMills,Graeme Jarvis,Adrian Jones, SteveKlemke, UweTomski

Saturday,August 9th, Stableford

AGrade Winner: Phil Town 35 pts C/B

BGrade Winner: TomJarred 32 pts C/B

DTL’s: Brad Griffin35, MarkHiriart 35, Dwayne Jenkins 34, WarwickGriggs 34, SteelyMatereariki 34, Brian Wattchow33, RobSaunders32, KenStreet32, RonPyke 32 C/B

NTP’s: 2nd: Bill Williams 5th: RayWiseman 11th:Denis Dyke 15th:GarryJansen

MOE

Sunday, 03 August 2025 OPEN Sunday9

hole Stableford

Grade AWinners: Tatterson, Gary(18)15

Sunday, 03 August 2025 OPEN Sunday Mixed Stableford

Grade AWinners: Stansbury, Les (10) 39

Grade BWinners: Randall, Damien (28) 39

Place Getters: Hamilton, Alec 37,Brown, Hayden 35 C/B,Buckman, Peter35C/B

Wednesday, 06 August 2025 WOMEN'S WEDNESDAY 9HOLESTABLEFORD

Overall Winners: Birrell, Chris (37) 21 Wednesday, 06 August 2025 WOMENS MONTHLYMEDAL Stroke

Overall Winners: Mead, Anne (23) 76 -

Medal Winner

Grade AWinners: Mead, Anne (23) 76

Grade BWinners: Wallis,Elizabeth (28) 80

Place Getters: Bates, Linda 77,Savige, Karyn78

NearesttoPin: 4thLeahann Stewart, 14th

Christine O'Reilly

Target Hole Prize: Andrea Griggs

Thursday, 07 August 2025 OPEN Mixed

Stableford

Grade AWinners: Scurlock, Dael (+1) 38 C/B

Grade BWinners: Stephens,Peter (13) 41

Grade CWinners: Beath, Ken(22) 41

Place Getters: Caygill, Simon 38 C/B, Boyce, John 38 C/B,Spiteri, Paul 38, Hayes, Albert37C/B,Randall, Damien 37 C/B

Traralgon matched Churchill’s 11-hit output,with Brandan Wass collecting two hits and Jay Ziersch drawing two walks. Bellerby led all hitters with a perfect five-for-five day, while Daniel Harrisswiped two bases for the Braves.

The Redsox now turn their attention to ashowdown with Sale Rangers this Sunday.

 MEANWHILE, at Toners Lane Reserve, Morwell Sale Rangers (A) delivered late-game drama with a walk-off single from Sammy Garcia to defeat Moe/Newborough Dodgers 10-9 in a highoctane clash.

The Dodgers jumped out to a4-nil lead behind NathanSimpson’shot bat, but Sale clawedback, tying the game in the third and again in the seventh thanks to clutch doubles from KevinArbuthnot and Emilo Garcia.

SCOREBOARD

Hibbs,Steven37, Brien, Graeme 36 C/B, Shearing,Andrew 36, Woszczeiko, Bryan 35 C/B,Donnison, Terry35C/B,Buckman, Peter35C/B,Backman, Phil 35, Duncan, Jack 34 C/B,Panozzo, Gavan34C/B

Great Score: Dael Scurlock(Eagle) @ 12,Rohan Berkhout (Eagle) @12, Manny Borg(Birdie) @8,Kevin Brien (Birdie) @ 14,Ramon Dyke (Birdie) @14, Jeffrey Bassman (Birdie) @4,Andrew Mc Donald (Birdie) @4,Phil Backman (Birdie) @14

Nearest to Pin: 4th Jeffrey Bassman, 8th RodneyWhite, 14th Phil Backman Saturday, 09 August 2025 MENS 2Person StablefordFour-ball

Overall Winners: Imer,Corey &Donaldson, Murray -71 Saturday, 09 August 2025 MENS

AggregateStableford

Grade AWinners: Donnison, Terry(9) 41

Grade BWinners: Bassman, Jeffrey (15) 38

Grade CWinners: Nyko, Steve(21) 39

Place Getters: Imer,Corey 38 C/B Backman, Phil 37 C/B,Scullin, Aaron 37, Harland, Bob 36, Shaw, Jayden 35 C/B Jamieson, Justin 35, Skicko,Nick34 C/B, Purves,Brandon 34 C/B,Dooley, Brian 34 C/B,Boyce,John 34

Great Score: Brian Dooley(Birdie) @14, Justin Jamieson (Birdie) @14, Charles Johnson (Birdie) @14, Neil Muirhead (Birdie) @14, Aaron Bassman (Birdie) @8

Nearest to Pin: 4th TerryDonnison, 8th

Aaron Bassman, 14th Charles Johnson

MORWELL

Women's Wednesday6th August 2025

Stroke- MonthlyMedal

Medal Winner: STurner 74

Div 2: BScurlock75

DTL: SMartinac 74 CPeter 76

NTP: 2nd CPeter 11th IYoshimura15th C

Boers

Birdies: DVuillermin &I Yoshimura

TRAFALGAR

WednesdayWomen's results -6/8/25

Stroke/Monthly medal:

Medal Winner: SamCaldow(9) with 72 nett

Runner-Up: Anne Outhred (26) with 77 nett

ScratchWinner: SamCaldowwith81

DTL: Angela Bayleyand Sue Klemkewith

78 nettand Cheryl Deppeler with 79 nett

Simpsoncontinued to shine, driving in three runs and going three-for-four, including afourth-inning double that gave Moe a6-4 edge. But Sale’s relentless offense -16hits in total -proved too much. WillHector led the charge with afour-for-five performance, while Shotaro Morimoto and Garcia each drove in two runs.

On the mound, Garcia started for Sale, allowing six runs(fourearned) over3.1 innings.McGrath pitched for Moe, surrendering 10 runs (five earned) over 7.1innings.

Sale’sdefencealsocameupbig,turning two double plays to keep the Dodgers at bay.

For more senior and junior results of the 2025 Latrobe Valley Baseball Associationwinter Season, head to: www.lvba.com.au

NTP: 5th Chris Payne 15th SueKlemke

PUTTS: SamCaldowwith 27 putts

Gobblers: JennyEvison on the 10th and DonnaMellon on the 6th

9-Hole players

Winner: Sue Balfour (32) with 38 nett

Tuesday05/07/25 Stableford

Players: 25, Women 3, Men 22

Winner: RobCusworthWarner (22)

Runner Up: SteveKlemke(20)

DTL: Graeme Grant (19), Hank Fiddelaers (19), Glen Doolan (18) Gavin Patchett(18)

NTP: Hank Fiddelaers(5th)

Lucky GardDaveRose

Thursday: 07/08/2025 -M/Medal

Players: 47,Women 17,Men 30

Women’s Winner: Sonia Roberts (33)

Scratch Winner BevKeily(51)

Runner Up: JanGriffin (35 )c/b

DTL: Aileen Mcnair (35)c/b,Karen Swingler (37)Aija Owen (40)

NTP: Sonia Roberts (11th) Cheryl Deppeler (13th) BevKeily(15th)

Lucky Card: Chris Payne

Men's Winner: NickSolohub (29)c/b

Scratch Winner Gavin Patchett(41)

Runner Up: Max Pugliese (29)c/b

DTL: NormMether (33),Chris Griffin(33)

Ian Outhred (33),Harold McNair (33), Hank Fiddelaers(34),Ivan Grant (34) Vic Hill (34) Tony Shearer(35)

NTP: Gavin Patchett(11th)RusBalfour (13) Tony Shearer (15th)

Par3 event: Gpatchett, HMcnair,H Fiddelaers,NSolohub

Lucky card: RonPyke

Friday,August 8th, Open Men’s&Ladies

Stableford

AGrade Winner: Adrian Jones 35 pts C/B

BGrade Winner: Jeff Gray 38 pts C/B

DTL's: Darryl Blackshaw38, Andrew Shearing 37,Peter Griffin35, Warwick Griggs 35, Craig Radford35, Chris Brydon 34, Greg Beyer34, Graeme Jarvis 34, Craig Scanlon 34 Birdies: 2nd: Graeme Jarvis,Craig Radford 11th: Ryan Mortimer,Ray Wiseman 15th: Stephen Mills,Graeme Jarvis,Adrian Jones SteveKlemke, UweTomski Saturday,August 9th, Stableford

AGrade Winner: Phil Town 35 pts C/B

BGrade Winner: TomJarred 32 pts C/B

DTL’s: Brad Griffin35, MarkHiriart35, Dwayne Jenkins 34, WarwickGriggs 34, SteelyMatereariki 34, Brian Wattchow33, RobSaunders32, KenStreet32, RonPyke 32 C/B

NTP’s: 2nd: Bill Williams 5th: RayWiseman 11th:Denis Dyke 15th:GarryJansen

YALLOURNNORTH

YallournGolfClubLadies Tuesday5-8-25 9Hole Stableford

Winner: (0-54) Amanda Ashton (42) 19 pts Thursday7-8-25 ParEvent One Division

Winner: Lola Carter (16) -2

DTL: LynMcAlister (13) -3 Evelyn Graske(34) -4on Count backSue Caldow. NTP: 2nd Lola Carter &Birdie,8th Lola Carter,12th target LynMcAlister,14th Sue Riches,16th JanWilson

PISTOLS

TRARALGON

Mon 28/7/24 Air pistol

BGrade: MTrent 514-62-576. DGrade: BChapman 467-117-584. L Morris 453-150-603. PShiels 444-128-572. DO'Rourke 444-119-563. DSykes 440-135-575.

Ladies Air pistol

DGrade: GAdkins422-139-561.R Miller 391-155-546.

Wed30/7/25 Centrefire

DGrade: DBest 423-205-628. HSheils 351-183-534. LMorris 281-304-585. D O'Rourke 321-232-463. 25 mtpistol

CGrade: CBenelli 501-73-574. DGrade: MHoward 468-163-631 BChapman 460-139-599. DSykes 170-313-483.

Sat 2/8/25 Rapid fire morning DGrade: DChandler 419-163-582. LMorris 376-175-551 Afternoonshoot Standardpistol CGrade: CBenelli 510-77-587 DGrade: LMorris 428-174-602. WMcGlyn 354-167-521.B Collins 436-112-348.

LATROBE VALLEY SOCCER LEAGUE 2025

SENIOR MEN RESERVES

Round 15

SEASON 2025 RESULTS

Round 1

Moe United 1drewTraralgon Olympians1

Falcons 3def Traralgon City0

Newborough-Yallourn United 0

drew Monash 0

East Gippsland United 1def by Sale United 3

Churchill United-bye Round 2

Sale United 1drewMoe United 1

Falcons 5def Churchill United 1

Traralgon City0def by Traralgon Olympians 10

Monash 3def East Gippsland 1 NYU -bye Round 3

Moe United 4def NYU 1

Sale United1def by Traralgon Olympians3

Churchill United 5def Traralgon City2

Falcons 1drewMonash 1 East Gippsland -bye Round 4

Falcons 0def by Traralgon Olympians2

Monash 3def ChurchillUnited0

Moe United 11 def East Gippsland 0

NYU 1drewTraralgon City 1

Sale United -bye Round 5

Falcons 3def EastGippsland 0

Sale United 4def Monash3

Churchill United 1drew NYU 1

Traralgon City0def by Moe United 10

TraralgonOlympians-bye Round 6

Churchill United 1def by TraralgonOlympians7

Falcons 2def by Moe United 3

NYU 0def Sale United 4

East Gippsland 3def Traralgon City1

Monash -bye Round 7

Sale United1def Traralgon City0

TraralgonOlympians2drew Monash 2

Moe United 5def

Churchill United 0

East Gippsland 2def by NYU 4

Falcons -bye

Round 8

Moe United 4def Monash 2

Falcons 2def NYU0

Traralgon Olympians 5def East Gippsland 0

Churchill United 2def Sale United 3

Traralgon City -bye

Round 9

Sale United 1drewFalcons 1

Monash 2def Traralgon City1

NYU 2def by Traralgon Olympians 8

East Gippsland 5def Churchill 2

Moe United -bye Round 10

Sale United 2def East Gippsland 0

TraralgonOlympians4def Moe United 1

Traralgon City 0def by Falcons4

Monash 1drewNYU 1

Churchill United -bye Round 11

Moe United 1drewSale United 1

TraralgonOlympians 4def

Traralgon City0

Churchill United 2drewFalcons 2

East Gippsland 2def by Monash 3 NYU -bye Round 12

Traralgon City2def Churchill United 3

Monash 1def by Falcons 2

NYU 0def by Moe United 3

TraralgonOlympians4def

Sale United 0 East Gippsland -bye Round 13

Traralgon Olympians 0def by Falcons 1

Churchill United 2def Monash 1

Traralgon City 1def by NYU 2

East Gippsland 0def by Moe7

Sale United -bye Round 14

Moe United 7def TraralgonCity0

Monash 2def Sale United 0

NYU 0drewChurchill United 0

East Gippsland 3def by Falcons 4

Traralgon Olympians- bye

Moe United 3def Falcons 2

Sale United 5def NYU 1

Traralgon Olympians 1drew

Churchill United 1

TraralgonCity1def by East Gippsland 3 Monash -bye Round16

TraralgonCity1def by Sale United 2

Churchill United 0def by Moe United7 Monash 3drew

Traralgon Olympians 3

NYU 1def by East Gippsland 2 Falcons -bye

Round17

Sale United 0def by Churchill United 2

Monash 0def by Moe United4

NYU 0def by Falcons3

EastGippsland 0def by Traralgon Olympians12

Traralgon City- bye Round18

Traralgon City3 drew Monash3

Traralgon Olympians3 def NYU 0

Churchill 8def East Gippsland 0

Falcons 3def Sale United2

Moe United -bye

League champion: Moe United (W12, D3, L1, PTS 39)

Runner-up: Traralgon Olympians (W11, D4, L1,PTS 37)

Third: Falcons 2000(W10, D3, L3, PTS 33)

Notes

Fortuna movedtostate league forseason2025.

Tyersdropped out of LVSL senior men's,Traralgon City came in.

Churchill Unitedwas docked points forfielding an ineligible player(finished season with five wins butonly13points)

Moe United wonRound 17 to securechampionship.Olympians would have wontitlehad Moe tied thatgame. These scoreshavebeen published forhistorical purposes Scores during the seasonwere notalwayspublished online.

MEN’S DIVISION 3

Round 1

Fortuna 0def by

Churchill United 1

Moe United 1drew

TraralgonOlympians1

Tyers0def by Sale United 3

Falcons -bye Monash -bye

Round 2

Sale United0 def by Moe United 3

Falcons 1def by Churchill United 2 Monash 2def by Tyers5

Fortuna -bye

TraralgonOlympians-bye Round 3

Falcons 2def Monash 0

Sale United1 def by TraralgonOlympians3

Tyers2def by Fortuna 3

Moe United -bye

Churchill United -bye

Round 4

Falcons 1def by TraralgonOlympians6

Fortuna 2def Sale United 0

Monash 2def by

Churchill United 4

Moe United 1def by Tyers3

Round 5

Sale United 1def by Monash 2

Falcons 2def by Tyers5

Fortuna 0drew

TraralgonOlympians0

Churchill United -bye

Moe United -bye

Round 6

Churchill United 0def by TraralgonOlympians5

Falcons 0def by Moe United 5

Fortuna 4def Monash3

Tyers-bye

Sale United-bye

Round 7

Fortuna 4def Falcons 2

Valley

TraralgonOlympians3def Monash 0

Moe United 1def by Churchill United 2

Sale United -bye

Tyers-bye Round 8

Moe United 3def Monash 0

Traralgon Olympians4def Tyers1

Churchill United 1def Sale United 0 Falcons -bye Fortuna -bye Round 9

Sale United9def Falcons0

Fortuna 0def by Moe United 4

Tyers5def ChurchillUnited1 Monash -bye

Traralgon Olympians -bye Round 10

Traralgon Olympians4def MoeUnited 1

Sale United 0def by Tyers2

Churchill United 10 defFortuna 0 Monash -bye

Falcons -bye Round 11

Moe United 1def by Sale United 2

Churchill 5def Falcons 0

Tyers5def Monash 0 Fortuna -bye

Traralgon Olympians -bye Round 12

Fortuna 2def by Tyers3

Monash 0def by Falcons 1

Traralgon Olympians 0def by

Sale United 2

Churchill United -bye

Moe United -bye Round 13

Churchill United 3def Monash0

Sale United1def Fortuna 0

Traralgon Olympians 0def Falcons 1

Tyers6def Moe 2

SEASON2025 RESULTS

Round 1

Moe United 1def by Traralgon Olympians2

Falcons 3def Traralgon City1

East Gippsland United 0def by Sale United3

Newborough-Yallourn United 0 def by Monash 9

Churchill United -bye Round 2

Sale United2 def by Moe United 3

Falcons 3def Churchill United 2

Traralgon City0def by TraralgonOlympians3

Monash 9def East Gippsland 0 NYU -bye

Round 3

Moe United 8def NYU0

Sale United 4def TraralgonOlympians0

Churchill 3def Traralgon 1

Falcons 1def by Monash 4 EastGippsland -bye

Round4

Falcons 2drewTraralgon Olympians 2

Monash 3def Churchill United 1

Moe United12def EastGippsland2

NYU 1def by TraralgonCity6

Sale United -bye

Round5

Falcons 3def East Gippsland 0

Sale United 4def Monash1

Churchill 11 def NYU 0

Traralgon City 0def by Moe 3

TraralgonOlympians- bye Round6

Traralgon Olympians 4def Churchill United 2

Falcons 0def MoeUnited 3

NYU 0def Sale United 11

East Gippsland 3def Traralgon City2 Monash -bye

Round7

Sale United5def Traralgon City0

Traralgon Olympians 2def Monash 1

Moe United 3def

Churchill United 0

East Gippsland 12 def NYU3

Falcons -bye

Round8

Moe United 5def Monash 1 Falcons 14 def NYU 0

TraralgonOlympians4def East Gippsland 1

Churchill 0def by Sale United5 Traralgon City -bye

Round9

Sale United 5def Falcons 2 Monash 9def Traralgon City0

NYU 1drew Traralgon Olympians 1 East Gippsland 3drew Churchill United 3 Moe United -bye

Round10

Sale United10def East Gippsland 1

Traralgon Olympians 1def by Moe United 2

Traralgon City 0def by Falcons3 Monash 10 def NYU 0 Churchill -bye

Round11

Moe

Round 14

TraralgonOlympians 6def Fortuna 0

Monash 0drewSale Untied 0

Tyers22def Falcons 0

Moe United -bye

Churchill United -bye Round 15

Moe United5 def Falcons0

Traralgon Olympians 3def

Churchill United 0

Monash 3def Fortuna 2

Sale Untied -bye

Tyers-bye

Round 16

Falcons 1drewFortuna 1

Churchill United 1def by Moe 5

Monash 1def by TraralgonOlympians 9

Tyers-bye

Sale United -bye

Round 17

Sale United 3def

Churchill United 0

Monash 2def by Moe 4

Tyers1def by TraralgonOlympians 3

Fortuna -bye

Falcons -bye

Round 18

Falcons 2def by Sale United4

Churchill 0def by Tyers6

Moe United 4def Fortuna 2

Traralgon Olympians -bye Monash -bye

League champion: Traralgon

Olympians (W10,D2, L2, PTS 32)

Runner-up: Tyers(W10, D0, L4, PTS 30)

Third: MoeUnited (W8, D1,L5, PTS 25)

TraralgonCity- bye Round18

Traralgon City0def by Monash2

(W13, D1, L2, PTS 40)

Runner-up: Moe United (W13, D1,L2, PTS40)

Third: Monash(W12, D0, L4, PTS 36)

Sale United wonongoal difference (67/58)

SENIOR WOMEN’S

SEASON 2025 RESULTS

Round 1

Falcons 4def Traralgon City0 Moe United 7def

Traralgon Olympians0

Tyers0def by Sale United 4

Newborough-Yallourn United 2 def Monash 0

Churchill United -bye

Round 2

Falcons 0def by Churchill United 9

Traralgon City2def

Traralgon Olympians 1

Monash 0def by Tyers1

Sale United 4def MoeUnited 0* NYU -bye

Round 3

Sale United 8def

Traralgon Olympians 0

Churchill United 4def Traralgon City2

Falcons 0drew Monash 0

Moe United 6def NYU0 Tyers- bye

Round 4

Falcons 0def by Traralgon Olympians1

Monash 0def by Churchill 2

Moe United 1drewTyers 1

NYU 0drew Traralgon City 0

Sale United-bye

Round5

Churchill United 3def NYU0

Sale United8 def Monash 1

Falcons 0drewTyers 0

Traralgon City0def by Moe United 6

Traralgon Olympians -bye Round6

Churchill United 4def

Traralgon Olympians0

Falcons 0def by Moe United 5

Tyers0 defbyTraralgon City1

NYU 1def by Sale United 7 Monash -bye

Round7

Sale United 11 def

Traralgon City 0

Traralgon Olympians2 def Monash 0

Moe United 2drew Churchill United 2

Tyers0 defbyNYU 1

Falcons 2000 -bye Round8

Falcons 1drew NYU 1

MoeUnited 5def Monash 2

Traralgon Olympians0 drew Tyers0

Churchill United 1def by Sale United 3

Traralgon City- bye

Round9

Sale United 4def Falcons 0

Monash 0def by TraralgonCity1

Tyers0 def by Churchill United 4 NYU 1def by Traralgon Olympians 2 Moe United -bye Round10

Sale United4 def Tyers0

Traralgon Olympians 0def by Moe United 5

Traralgon City 1def by Falcons2 Monash 2def by NYU 1

Churchill United -bye Round11

Traralgon Olympians0 drew Traralgon

Traralgon Olympians4

Moe womenend seasonwithwin

SOCCER

LVSL

BY JOHN CARDONA

MOE UNITED senior woman finished ahighlysuccessful2025Latrobe Valley Soccer League season with a2-1 victory over Traralgon City. City put in atenacious effort against the home side during last Sunday's Round 14 catch-up round.The opening 20 minutes was adour struggle between both sides midfields,with neitherside able to get control of the game and gain momentum.

Moe United had the better of the early chances, mainly from the two wide players in Karli Lee-Taffs and Miley Cooper who set up chances for Rebecca Van Der Koogh and Miley Cooper,but either could finish. Traralgon City'spersistenceeventually got

rewardedafteraseriesofthroughballs saw Claudia Buhagiar's pass fall inside the box and a hesitant Moe United defence allowed Traralgon City's Jayda Morgan to swoop onto the loose ball and her shot gave Moe UnitedkeeperReneeVidler no chance.

Moe Unitedthen peppered the Traralgon City goal with little success, the closest coming after a cross from Bridget Green was picked out by Van Der Koogh who bit her shot at goal, only to see it go narrowly wide.

Finally at the 40 minute mark, aParis Troughton cross went to theCity back postwhere Miley Cooper met the cross with afirst time shot.

The second half was afar more scrappy affair with the home side at times getting their possession game moving lead by Tiani Reddlex, Jess Ruddell andGeorgia Wyntjes who continually

applied strong physical tacklestowin control of thecentre of the park.

Players for the Traralgon City side who's determination kept the visitors in the game were Nikita Buhagiar and Morgan, but their attacking moves werebrokendownbyGreen, Summer Cooperand Tiana Reddlex.

At the 60-minutemark, the home sidegot themselves adecisive break through when apass from Troughton found Moe United's number one striker in Van Der Koogh, who calmly slotted the ball past the City keeper to secure the win.

Best for the winners was Reddlex, Summer Cooper, Miley Cooper and Georgia Wyntjes.

Best for Traralgon City was Nikita Buhagiar, Morgan, Claudia Buhagiar and Kate Henne.

MoeUnited also held its vote count after thegame. Details: Page 42

Future refsrising throughthe ranks

SOCCER

LVSL

BY LIAM DURKIN

THE futureofrefereeing in the Latrobe Valley Soccer League is in good hands.

The league has welcomed aplethora of young referees this season, who have been enjoying the experience calling the shots.

Formanyjunior refs, they will play their own games for their respective clubs beforedonning the whistle.

While the youngsters admitted to some nerves, they also found strong support from their senior counterparts, as well as each other.

Senior referees, some with decades of experience, have been on hand to teach the up-and-comers the finer points of the trade.

Recently, ahost of senior and juniorreferees converged on Traralgon Olympians Soccer Club to discuss areas such as confidence in decision making, as well as learning from mistakes.

The LVSL has reported junior referee numbers are the healthiest they have been in many years, and noted the promise many are showing on the start of their refereeing journey.

As has beenrightly pointed out, the league needs to develop young referees to ensurethere areenough officials in the game.

North Gippy clubs to decide Hawks’ fate

FOOTBALL/NETBALL

By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

MEMBER clubs of North Gippsland FootballNetball League will determine whether Morwell East Football NetballClubwill complete their transfer from Mid Gippsland FNL.

Aspecial generalmeetingwilltakeplace tonight (August 13), where all 11 North Gippsland clubs will vote on whether the move occurs.

After three previous attempts, the Hawks persist thatamoveinto North Gippslandisnecessaryfor the club's survival.

Speaking with the Express when the club transfer request was first announced, Morwell East FNC President, ColinKing pointed to geographical reasons for the club's continued desire to see out achangeofscenery.

Lastyear, threeMid Gippsland clubs arose to

choose North Gippsland as their league of choice -Morwell East, Newborough and Yinnar.

However, Morwell East was the only club to go around again, especially after the cut-off date for clubtransferswas brought forward to June 30 instead of the previous October 31 deadline.

With three clubs on offerlastyear, North Gippsland member clubs never got to the stage of voting who they wanted in, only if they wanted one, two or three clubs aboard.

NorthGippsland clubs elected to remainwith the status quo.

In 2023 however, when Morwell East was first put in front of North Gippsland clubs,they missed out by the skin of their teethseven to four, enough to tip the scales. (The Hawks expressed adesire to change leagues in 2022, but failed at the club vote).

Amajor requirement for Morwell East's consideration is the need to field an under 18s side.

Despite not having an U18s since 2017,King

Cup campaign starts

SOCCER LVSL BY

JOHN CARDONA

THE LatrobeValley Soccer Leaguemoves into its cup season this weekend.

Cup games follow the championship season, with silverware on offer across the grades in aknockout format.

There will only be one cup knock-out game this weekend for Round 1.

Roun d1 in the sen ior men's wil ls ee Traralgon City host Newborough/Yallourn United from 2.30pm.

In what shouldbeacloselyfoughtencounter across 90 minutes, the match has the makings of atight result.

Although neither side was able to convert many chances into goalsduringthe championship season, the Combine might have enough to scrape through for awin, with the likes of Ash Birrell, Lee Jankovic and Matt Laws all capable.

Traralgon City's main scorers this season have been Isaac Burgoine, Braydon Murray and Ethan Hanlon.

 IN the Reserves match at 12.30pm, the home side Traralgon City (with three wins for the season) should easily account for NYU, who did not manage to win asingle game during the 2025 league season, while conceding astaggering 132 goals in their 16 matches at an average of more than 8.5 goals per game.

 THE women's match at 10am sees NYU play Falcons 2000.

Bothsidesare evenly matched, having three wins each during the season.

Top scorers for the Combine have been Olivia Brown (five goals), Shayla Vella and Hanna Jonston (two each).

At the Falcons, top scorersare veteran Sheeny Whatcoat (five goals) andDakota Cook (two).

believes that the closer proximity for competition will leadtothe Hawksreturningjunior football should the North Gippsland move go ahead.

"Wethink we're reallygoing to struggle to get athirds team when we're in Mid Gippy, because of the closeness of other clubs for kids from Morwell to go play in the Gippsland Leagueor North Gippsland league where they can play in a full-teamcompetition at under18level," King said.

North Gippsland features an 11-team junior competition while Mid Gippsland has only seven clubs with U18s.

Mid Gippsland and North Gippsland would have met prior to the vote to discuss the situation, with AFLVictoria club and team transfer regulations stating thatthe sourceleague and destination league are to meet by July 31 to address the justifications and consequencesofthe transfer application.

Morelocal footy -Pages 21-28

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Cohort: YoungLatrobe ValleySoccer Leaguereferees alongside their mentors.

Photograph: Liam Durkin

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