Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 17 September 2025
By AIDAN KNIGHT
AS part of the 2025 Gippsland New Energy Conference (GNEC), several discussions centred on the future of manufacturing in Australia and how energy and the energy sector can contribute.
One of the seminal symposia on the topic was delivered by Honi Walker, chief executive of the South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA).
Ms Walker spoke in the McFarlane Burnet room of the Traralgon library, on her organisation's constantly evolving document, the 'blueprint for growth', advocating for what they describe as "Australia's most dynamic manufacturing region"
"Evolve is just a fancy word for policy," Ms Walker said, revealing an ambitious target to transform Australia's manufacturing landscape. It is SEMMA's goal to dramatically increase the sector's contribution to GDP in Australian manufacturing and increase from the current 5.9 per cent to 10 per cent
The blueprint highlights the sector's resilience, challenging the narrative that manufacturing is a dying industry.
With 230,000 manufacturing jobs in Melbourne's southeast region alone, Walker emphasised the sector's critical importance to local economies.
"Manufacturing is not dead. Don't believe that. People have said it, and some people believe it, just because we lost automotive manufacturing. But there is still a huge parts and aftermarket sector here in Victoria that services those areas."
One of her pivotal examples was the production of rolling stock, the technical term for train and rail manufacturing, undoubtedly key, leading figure in the state's manufacturing figures, homed in
the south east suburb of Dandenong. Around 95 per cent of V/Line services travelling through the Traralgon corridor are built by Bombardier, and have been since 2001. These locomotives have been developed and built at the Dandenong plant since 2004.
Ms Walker presented the notion that the south east fosters the relationship Gippsland has with it's metro counterparts. This could take place a number of ways, but the most obvious would be to include the energy transition, by integrating
welders in the power industry of the Latrobe Valley into the parts and materials, and the automation process of the rolling stock production. This could put Gippsland into a position where other manufacturing capabilities could be explored, leveraging the Gippsland-to-Dandenong corridor.
"By about 2030, predictions are that Australia will be 10,000 welders short," she said. This skill gap will be especially acute in the Latrobe Valley, as everyone is becoming increasingly aware of the power station closures 'drying up'
the highest-paying pool for those in the trade.
"Everyone who is already skilled in welding will go to WA, fly-in-fly-out, because that's where the money is," Ms Walker said.
"Anyone who isn't will take a short-term role in the construction of the Brisbane Olympic Games 2032."
But, Ms Walker argues, if foundations were to be laid for a potentially thriving Gippsland parts and supply chain sector, there would be more reason for the next generation of school-leavers to train in this field, made more appealing by pay-packet size and job security. This goes not only for rolling stock, but for trucks, tram, and even caravans (the latter of which have production zones as close to Gippsland as the AVAN dealer in Pakenham).
To address this challenge, SEMMA has launched a careers attraction campaign called 'Manufacturing Facts'.
Ms Walker explained the initiative aims to transform perceptions of manufacturing among young people.
"We're showing fantastic careers across sectors like AI, advanced manufacturing, metal trades, aerospace, and defence," she said.
The three-month pilot program encourages people to "send it to your kids, your friends, your cousins, your aunties, your uncles" to showcase the diverse and exciting opportunities in modern manufacturing.
Ms Walker emphasised, though, that this wasn't just about replacing jobs, but about strategic economic development that could bring high-value manufacturing roles to the Latrobe Valley and wider Gippsland areas, something that seemingly everyone wants but nobody has the answer to.
Renewables won’t create as many jobs: energy union Manufacturing opportunities forging future
By PHILIP HOPKINS
THE Mining Energy Union has cut through claims about Gippsland’s energy transition with a strong statement: renewables will never replace the jobs lost in the Latrobe Valley’s coalfired power stations and the Gippsland offshore wind industry will not be ready to operate when Yallourn closes in 2028.
The union’s President, Andy Smith, speaking at the Gippsland New Energy Conference in Traralgon last week, slammed the state government’s inaction in the Latrobe Valley, but emphasised he was not against renewables. He also cast doubt on the wisdom of filling the Valley’s mine voids with pit lakes.
Mr Smith was one of four speakers at a conference session that dealt with the future of jobs in the energy transition. Other speakers were Lisa Gooding, Yallourn Transition Leader at Energy Australia; Steve Dodd, the Secretary of the Gippsland Trades and Labour Council; and Adam Monument, Business Operations Manager at Earthworker Energy, a Morwell manufacturing company.
Mr Smith’s comments were sparked by a question about the timing of the energy transition, which led to a mild spar with Ms Gooding, who gave a comprehensive overview of Energy Australia’s program to retrain Yallourn workers for new jobs.
Ms Gooding said EnergyAustralia had done a lot of work with offshore wind industry, looking at how to transform roles in the coal-fired power station to offshore wind.
The company found it would take on average six months to train the top roles at Yallournmine operators, station workers, boilermakers, mechanical fitters and engineers - to work in offshore wind.
“We are still waiting for contracts to see whether we will have an offshore industry, but there is an opportunity in that field,” she said.
Closer to home, there was the Wooreen battery in the Valley, and Yallourn workers’ number one favoured future occupation was project management.
There were opportunities at Wooreen and a similar project in South Australia - on the job experience “they can take elsewhere” Ms Gooding said batteries were new technology in which no one has experience.
“The skills sets to install batteries already exist in coal-fired power station - a huge synergy that already exists,” she said. Mr Smith replied:
“I have a lot of respect for Lisa and she is an excellent manager, but that was a very corporate answer all the same. With all respect … it may be a six-month bridging course to qualify for offshore wind," he said, but of offshore wind companies with a licence, “not one of them has an operations date slated before 2032 - 2032 is the operational date for all these operations.
“You can do a six-months course but you will be waiting until 2032/33 before you can actually work in it,” he said.
He then turned to the number of jobs.
“I’m a firm believer in renewables, they are part of the future, but they are not the future right now. On top of that, the number of jobs
involved in renewables is low, to put it bluntly,”
Mr Smith said.
A recent battery project not far from Churchill involved 50 or 60 jobs at peak of construction; they got the job done and moved on. Similarly, only one person was employed at the Hazelwood big battery.
“Move into offshore wind construction - those are big Lego parts brought in from overseas - highly specialised work. They’re not pulling people off the Gippsland streets to do those jobs - they bring them with them. The wind farms are put together relatively quickly for the size of the things, but there are minimal jobs in that as well,” he said.
Similarly, with the onshore Delburn wind farm - a couple of hundred jobs in construction, but when completed, a crew of five or six maintenance workers who will go to a wind farm and circle back around.
Mr Smith said he did not oppose renewables.
“You would have to be an idiot to not think they are part of the future - but the number of jobs within renewable energy will never match the number of jobs in the coal-fired industry at present,” he said.
“That is not renewable energy’s fault - that is how it’s designed. Any new technology is better and more efficient than old technologywhen something is more efficient and better, it requires fewer people to use it, and that’s a fact, unfortunately.”
Mr Dodd also said there were lots of claims about jobs in renewables.
“It’s a bit of creative accounting - I’d like them to do my tax,” he quipped, adding: “Even when the jobs are finished, there will not be many jobs there. What we need to be doing is making a really good manufacturing industry in this region - permanent, highly skilled and well paid jobs.”
Mr Smith said mine rehabilitation was spoken about enough in the transition.
“Rehabilitation more than likely will be the single largest employer moving forward,” he said, both at Yallourn, Morwell and Loy Yang.
“At Hazelwood, it’s a major source of work now.”
Ms Gooding answered: “I respect you as well! In terms of mine rehabilitation, there are jobs in that and in decommissioning as well. They are not long-term jobs. If you are able to fill the mine with water, we can stabilise the landform and build new energy and industries,” she said.
“That will be better for your members than working in the mine six months of the year just holding the fort until we wait for approval for our rehabilitation plans. The focus on long-term jobs.”
Mr Smith replied: “Fair enough … we’re talking about pit lakes - I don’t see pit takes as being beneficial.”
Ms Gooding said pit lakes were a huge asset for the region – in terms of flood mitigation, flood flows, helping downstream farmers in drought by releasing flows down the river, or at Hazelwood, stopping threats to Morwell.
Voice: South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance Chief Executive, Honi Walker speaking at the Gippsland New Energy Conference. Photo: Aidan Knight
VICTORIAPolice has launcheda record $1 million reward for information that leads to the arrest of Dezi Freeman.
Freeman is wanted for allegedlyfatally shooting two officers and seriously injuring another during asearch at his Porepunkah property on August 26.
Freeman, cons idered heavily arme da nd extremely dangerous, remains at large, and
Million dollar reward for Freeman
authorities urge the publicnot to attempt to locate him due to the extreme risk involved.
The reward is the first of it's kind in Victoria, as information is usually only valued this highly if it leads to aconviction, rather than capture.
While Freemanevaded capture in localityof Victoria’s northeast high country, the Great Alpine Road is the primary scenic route that can take you
fromthe Gippsland region, via Bairnsdaleand Omeo. The Lakes region is sometimes referred to as the "Gippslandcorridor" of the GreatAlpine Rd.
As themanhunt enters its third week, police now believe Freemanmay be receiving activeassistance from someone in the community.
Anyone aiding him could face seriouslegal consequences, including decades behind bars.
Questions still remain after Hazelwood public consultation period concludes
FOLLOWING the closureofthe publicconsultation period for ENGIE Energy’s Hazelwood rehabilitation plan, Environment Victoria and the Gippsland communityhave raised concerns over the potential impactsofcoalash contaminationofGippsland water tables.
They have also made apublic appeal for ENGIE to commit to only using recycled waterfor mine rehabilitation rather than draining precious water supplies from the GippslandLakes, and called for stronger oversight and enforceable conditions to ensure rehabilitation delivers lasting environmental and community benefits.
At present, the Hazelwood Ash Retention Area (HARA)remains an unmarked ash dump containing decades of coal ash, contaminated with heavy metals including arsenic, lead and mercury that havealready caused groundwater contamination Environment Victoria is deeply concerned that ENGIE’s Declared Mine Rehabilitation Plan failed to reveal any changes to the company's plans for the contaminated ash dump, while listing the risk as ‘eliminated’.
The threats to Gippsland’s water have also been outlined in apaperbya geologyand hydrology
expert and raised by local community leaders who warn thatflooding the mine pit withoutremoving coal ash will expose the region to the potential for toxic metals leakage into local water supplies.
Joy Toose, Climate Campaign Managerat
Environment Victoria, said “Hazelwood powered Victoria for decades, but it also left behind one of the state’s biggest environmental challenges."
“The rehabilitation of the Latrobe Valley’s three enormous coal mines is aonce-in-a-generation opportunity to set things right -tosafeguard the localcommunityand protect the Latrobe Valley Riversystemand ourprecious Gippsland Lakes.
“It's common wisdom that the safest approach to coal ashistoensure it's kept ‘high and dry,’ but ENGIE’s plans to keep the coal ash in Hazelwood mine, put acap on it and then flood the mine.
“Experts have warned thatcapping the coalash won’t stop heavy metals leaching into the water for generations to come. If ENGIE believes the risk has been eliminated, the community deserves to see clear, independent evidence of that.”
Secretaryofthe Latrobe ValleySustainability
Group Jane Sultana, said “As aresident of the Latrobe Valley, Iworry about the health impacts
of heavy metal pollution on our water ways. The toxins in coal ash have been linked to many serious diseases including heart disease, cancer and respiratory illness.
“ENGIE does not plan on removing coal ash dumps from the mine pit before flooding it with water. If contaminated water is allowed to flow back into the Latrobe River system, it will change the water chemistry and have adevastating impact on biodiversity.
“ENGIE must not be permitted to save costs at the expense of human healthand the environment "I urgeENGIE to behold theUnited Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In particular goal threeasitrelates to healthand goal six as it relatestosustainable management of water.”
EnvironmentVictoria is callingfor clear evidence and independent verification that coal ash contamination risks are addressed, as well as a commitment to use recycled water, not scarce river flows, for filling the mine pit.
Strongeroversightand enforceable conditionsare also neededtoensure rehabilitationdeliverslasting environmental and community benefits, it says.
Somewhere out there: The fugitive was last seen fleeing into the forests of Mt Buffalo State National Park on August 26
Photograph: Aidan Knight
Addressing the housing crisis
By KATRINA BRANDON
MORE social housing across Gippsland is being delivered by the state government.
Last Friday (September 12), Minister for Housing
Harriet Shing visited one of many blocks being built in Traralgon, expressing excitement about the prospect of more homes becoming available for people in need, including homes in Moe and Sale.
“Every Victorian deserves access to a safe and secure home that they can be proud to call their own, which is why we’re building thousands of new homes all over the state,” she said.
“The delivery of more new and upgraded housing, including in Traralgon, Morwell, Moe and Sale, is an essential part of tackling homelessness and delivering real solutions for vulnerable Victorians.”
The state government’s landmark $6.3 billion
Big Housing Build and Regional Housing Fund is delivering more than 13,300 social and affordable homes across Victoria - with more than 11,100 already complete or underway.
Bringing in six homes, the Traralgon housing project is being built by local Traralgon company
JSL Builders, meaning local workers and apprentices are working to address the ongoing need for housing.
JSL Builders has more than 25 years' experience working in the Latrobe Valley.
In addition to this, work is underway to deliver a mix of social, private market, and affordable housing at English Street, Morwell as part of the Olearia development.
“The Olearia development in Morwell will be a well-planned and connected community that provides more families with the opportunity to find a home in the heart of the Valley,” Ms Shing said.
All of the homes being built are bright, modern, accessible, and energy efficient, and located close to services, parks, open spaces, transport and schools.
Alongside building more homes, Ms Shing said she is working with councils to increase housing supply, including efforts to expedite planning proposals for builders to start construction sooner.
Instead of homes being approved in a span of months to years, Ms Shing aims for permits to be approved within days and weeks.
construction.
Slithering into snake season
AS temperatures rise, snakes become more active, emerging from a period of reduced activity to seek food and mates.
While they may be more visible, snakes generally pose little danger to people when left alone.
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) statewide wildlife advisory services manager, Lachlan Clarke said most snake bites occurred when people tried to capture or kill them.
“The most effective way to stay safe is to simply leave them alone. This includes keeping pets on leads in areas where snakes are known to occur," he said.
Tips for snake season:
Keep the yard tidy, clear away clutter like
timber piles and rocks that may house snakes;
Supervise pets, keep dogs on a lead and watch pets closely in high-risk areas. If suspecting a bite, seek immediate veterinary care;
Dress for the occasion, when out walking, wear long pants and proper shoes;
Don’t try to catch or harm a snake. Call a licensed snake catcher instead, and;
In the case of a bite, phone 000 immediately.
Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, and capturing, harming, or killing them is illegal. For more information, phone DEECA on 136 186.For essential snake bite first aid information, visit www.stjohnvic.com.au/news/ snake-bite-first-aid-tips/
Development: Minister for Housing, Harriet Shing outside one of the new dwellings under
Inspection: Minister for Housing, Harriet Shing and JSL Builders’ Jay Langstaff take a tour around one of the new social housing sites. Photographs: Katrina Brandon
Fully-charged battery
By AIDAN KNIGHT
ENERGY Minister, LilyD'Ambrosio made the most of ceremony in her visit to the Latrobe Valley on September 4, finishing hertrip with the official opening of the new battery energy storage system in Morwell.
In partnership with Tilt Renewables, the Minister for the SEC cut the ribbon on a100 megawatt, 200 megawatt-hour battery which had been underconstruction for 18 months on the site behind the Hazelwood open cut.
The Minister praised the project's swift conclusions, proclaiming it a pivotal moment in the region'senergy transition, in a"strategic location".
The milestone came against abackdrop of instability in the Valley’s ageing coal fleet, with Yallourn’s Unit 1tripping that morning and Unit 2alreadyoffline, leavingthe plantrunningatreduced capacity as smokeplumedfrom the stacks.
Tilt merged with the Powering Australian Renewables Fund in 2022, makingitthe largest private developer and generator of renewable electricity in Australia
TiltRenewablesChief Executive, Anthony Fowler has described the battery as avaluableaddition to the company’s nation-leading portfolio of wind and solar generation.
“Together,we’ve builtasystemthat willplay avital roleinAustralia’s energy transition,” he said.
“We’re proud to invest in the Latrobe Valley and contributetoits transformation into ahub for clean energy innovation.”
The ribbon cutting took place in the existing Morwell terminalstation, as Tilt Chief Development Officer, Laurent Francisci, spoke on how much work the collaboratorshaveput into "this crucial role" of the legislated energy capacity targets put in place by the state government. The goal is to haveeffective
storage of 2.6 gigawatts by 2030,and for thatcapacitytoexpand to at least 6.3 gigawatts by 2035,the same year Loy
Yang Aisslated for closure.
"The Latrobe Valleyhas been the beating heart of Victoria's energy generation for over acentury," Mr Francisci addressed the crowd.
"The Valley became home to major power generation plants. These facilities not only powered homes and industries, they also built communities, trained generations of workers, and forged aproud identity rooted in energy innovation.
"Today, as we openthis new beast,we stand on the shoulders of that legacy
The Latrobe Valley is once again leading the way, and this time into acleaner, more sustainable energy future."
Victoria is already the leading state in batteryrenewables,with 12 large-scale
energy storage systems existingor in development around the state. Other areas with storage capabilities comparable to the Morwell's terminal station are Moorabool (300mw Victorian Big Battery) and Plumpton (600 MW Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub).
Those attending may have speculated Ms D'Ambrosio borrowed her speechwriter from the American President,as shebegan her address with the words, "I lovebatteries, Ilove bigbatteries, I thinkweall love big batteries."
The Minister had turned the first sod on the very same site in late 2023, and learnt from her previous visit that the best way to win over the locals is to appeal to the sentimentality they have with the industry being the core of their history.
"Utilising the infrastructure that has
been built up here in the Latrobe Valley over 100 years, optimising the utility of the existing infrastructure, makesalot of sense. It needs to be and will be apart of the future", she said.
But the fanfa re wa ss ho rt-l ive d. Justaweek later,the Minister faced criticism at the Gippsland New Energy Conference, where union leaderAndy Smith accused her of neglecting coal power workers directly affected by the transition.
"She didwhatshe did and met with who she met with, but didn't go out to Yallourn,orLoy Yang AorB.I just wonder how difficult it would have been to take an extra hour out of your day and visit some of those power workers (impacted by the transition to renewables). That's recognition, and that's what doesn't happen," he said.
Execitment: Tilt Chief Devlopment Officer,LaurentFrancisci unveils the plaqueatthe Hazelwood battery station alongside EnergyMinister,Lily D’Ambrosio
Photographs: Aidan Knight
The Express wasmade aware the Minister also had awindow of opportunity between her SEC one stop shop addressinNewborough that morning and the Morwell ribbon-cuttingtwo hours later, havingcancelled ascheduled visit to alocal heat pump manufacturer in between. That pump manufacturer turned out to be Earthworker Energy, who se op erati ons manag er ,A da m Monument, was seated next to Mr Smithonthat very same panel at the new energy conference, only sharpening the reproach.
"She doesn't go where the hard questionswill find her," Mr Smithsaidof the Minister, and received scattered applause from the audience for this perspective on the transition last week.
The Hazelwoodproject provided a short-term boost to theregion’s workforce, with45directand 240 indirect jobs created during construction, and three ongoing roles to support operations.
Delivery partners includedFluence, Aus Net ,A EM O, Zen vir on, Wil son Transformers, and local firms such as TwoMorrows Electrical and LAI.
The Morwell batterymay signal the future of Victoria’s energy system, but as union voices reminded, the path from coal to renewables remains fraught with questions about recognition, jobs, and community in the Latrobe Valley, and these are all at the forefront of the conversation locally.
Joy: Thecrowd of energy workers, project managersand communityleaderscelebratethe batter y’sopening
Charitydevastated following break-in
Unfortunate: Moe-based charityLifeSkills Victoria wasthe recent victim of abreak-in, whichsaw $20,000wor th of resources stolen.
By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT
FORCED to pick up the pieces afteracruel break-in recently, Moe-based charity Life Skills Victoria is attempting to soldier on any way they can in an effort to continue to serve people.
Staff at the NDIS-funded organisation had their world turned upside down when arriving to work last month, only to discover that burglars had gained access to the High Street building, ransacking the place and stealing many essential items.
The result? More than $20,000 worth of equipment, including laptops, food, and money for programs displaced, leaving the small charity clinging to whatever they have left, and leaving those concerned with much stress and disheartenment.
Staff personal items were also allegedly stolen.
One staff memberarrived to find papers and other items scatteredthroughout the hallways and into the offices, making feel them quite uneasy.
LifeSkills Victoria Chief Executive, Kyle Prasser told the Express that while the buildingitself didn’t
and staffare persevering,including with their theatre group
suffer alot of damage,the result of the robbery has left them severely out of pocket.
“It was pretty well turned over. They’d stolen quite abit of ourtechnology …honestly, we’donly just renewed our laptop fleet, so we had about eight of our new laptops disappear, including ones that we use for our clients to run programs,” he said.
Mr Prasser added that considering they are meant to be the support beamfor people,now that they are theones seeking community assistance, it makes it difficult to remain focusedonwhat’s ahead, but are doing so the best they can.
“The effect of it, we’re feeling it reverberate a little bit,” he said.
“It’s nice to say we all just move on and replace computers and technology, excreta, but it’snot going to work like that.
“As an NDIS-funded organisation predominately, but we also run an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) that’sfundedbythe stategovernment, we don’t have alot of money to go around at all. Anything is incredibly valuable to us.”
Insurancehasn’t been able to cover the total
financial loss, so Life Skills Victoria has put the word out to the community and are accepting any support, whether volunteer-wise or via donation.
Stolen laptops were used for literacy and numeracy groups, and were also required for an upcomingdigital literacy program which had already secured grant funding.
“We were really looking forward to building some programs arounddigitalliteracyfor our clients, and quite afew of the devices that were stolen mean that program is now goingtobesignificantly delayed,” Mr Prasser said.
“We wanted to build the skills that everyone is building, things aroundutilisingAItonavigate the world forpeoplewithdisabilities. So, that’s been put on hold for the time being until we can replace those resources.”
The organisationwas also lookingforwardto another initiative commencing, with the openingof asocial enterprise cafélocated at Morwell’s Latrobe Regional Gallery. That understandably has been forced to the side in the meantime.
Sincethe burglary, staff have been given the
option to work from home, keeping in touch with participants using their own devices. That has left the workplace arelativelyquietand sombresight,however, programs are still being run next door at the High StreetCommunity Hub, giving Life Skills Victoria participants something to look towards.
Astudent coffee hub remains open to the public, and an active theatre group for participants is another opportunity continuing to forge ahead. Life SkillsVictoria has existed in different forms, all at the same location, for four decades, and will continue to be there for those who need -however, they need some support themselves.
You can make adonation to help recover and restartprograms sooner at: www.lifeskillsvic.com. au/donate
The investigation into theburglary remains ongoing, with no arrests made at the time of writing. Anyone with information or dashcam/CCTV footage is urged to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit aconfidential report online at: www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
charityLifeSkills Victoria, participants
Warm embrace: Emma and Bec in LifeSkills Victoria’sstudent coffee hub,ser ving hot drinks to the community Photographs: BlakeMetcalf-Holt
Once bustlingtown nowtired
"I WANT the old days back againand they'll never come back, and Iamhaunted by the memory of them and of the world fallingabout my ears."Margaret Mitchell, 'Gone With The Wind', 1936. My nephew, Traralgon based singer-songwriter, Danny McDonald, has anew singlecalled Tired Town in which he laments the decay of the Valley. Indeed,the ideological pursuit of net zero by the state and federal Labor governments is destroying regional Australia.
So as Iwalk along the near-deserted streetsof Morwell, with only memories for company, Ifeel an overwhelming mood of gloom and doom. Everywhere Ilook Isee ghostly reminders of the brutal cost of net zero: the boarded-up Gude's Arcade in Buckley Street alongside the disused andderelictpicture theatre; the ghetto-like 'To Let'signs in desertedshop windows; the vacant blocks of landwhere oncestood busymilk bars and banks. Yes, Morwell and indeed the wider Latrobe Valley are just asad shadow of what they used to be. But Morwell and the Valley has lost more than its business and industry. It has lost its vibrancy, its vitality, its very soul.
Net zero wassupposed to lowerenergy pricesand create jobs. Instead, our power bills have skyrocketed to $1300 more per year and unemployment in the Valley is the highest of any region in Victoria!
Oh, how Ilong for the old days of the Valley whenelectricity was cheap becauseHazelwood and Morwell coal-fired power stations were running.When the Valley was booming and proudly boasted of being the heartbeat of Victoria's power and prosperity. Ah, those were the days.
Joseph Lis Morwell
Hold your horses
BEFORE anyonejumps on the wagon about my comment regarding Victoria never having afemale treasurer ('Revived Libs, Latrobe Valley Express Opinion,10/09), Jaclyn Symeshas onlybeenthere for just underayear, and inherited agigantic debt.
Iagree with one point from John Gwyther ('Nats havenoPlan Band no clue', 10/09)- instead of endless bloviating and posturing for political circus, how about evidence. But Iwouldpoint out that the Laborgovernmenthas not proved anything except ravishing goodfarmland, high electricityprices and food above the cost of households.
Iheard an interesting comment the other day: "Climate change will still be here after we are all dead”.So, why are we wasting our lives over something we cannot change?
Iagree with Darren Kane ('Please explain', 10/09) -how did we let our country become alandofhate when so many gave their lives for us.
Nazis and terrorists should be deported regardless if they are naturalised.IfAustralian born, their acts should come under better and stronger
laws which at the moment are as weak as water.
Patricia Correa Traralgon
Council playing politics
IJUST paid my rates to Latrobe City Council.
We have seen some councillors marching in the street and holding an embarrassing special council meeting opposingthe Emergency Services andVolunteersFund that augments the previous existing Fire Services Property Levy.
Their policytodiscriminate againstthe other equally worthyemergency service volunteers ignoresthe mostlikelydangertothe people of Traralgon fromthe TraralgonCreek flooding which won’t be fixed with afirehose.
At the special council meeting, mayor Dale Harriman was inspired to speak of local councils leading the violent French Revolution, withthe guillotine to chopheads off. After the special council meeting, council’s YouTube video of the council meeting was taken down until they were shamed into putting it back up.
Ratepayers were assailedwith stories of how we wouldstruggletoafford the extracost by the same councillors who promoted the councillors catering allowance (the 'Party Pies Allowance') concept.
My lasttwo years' rate notices show Iwill be required to pay an extra levy of one dollar per week.
Hardlyacapitaloffence requiring PremierJacinta Allen to lose her head into ablood soaked basket.
Phillip Edwards
Hazelwood South
So what's new?
DECEITFUL, disgraceful, desperate and delusional are just some of the monikers that have been bestowed upon the Teflon coated former Premier 'Dictator Dan' Andrews.
What a'rousingreception'hewould have received from Xi Jinping, Putin and Jong Un, three of the most despised and reviled despot dictators on the planet. The old saying ...."when you lie down with dogs, you wake up with fleas" is so apt in this instance.
This poor excuse for aman and aformer 'leader' of our state hasdirtiedand stained himself,his family and all Australians with his visit to shake handsand mix with these three latrine rodents Threelow life mongrels, whose only motto in life is, 'it'sall about me, Idon't careaboutyou, your country,oranyone else!'Well, it's so easy to see whyDannyboy fits in so easilywith scum such as these despots. Left leaning idiots and nuffies of the red and green variety who kept voting him back into power must surely now have scrambled egg on their faces or do they? It's impossible to change the mindset and the psycheofleft leaners. They knownot what they
Clear: TheExpress’most opinionated correspondent has again takenaim at former Premier,DanielAndrews. File photograph
do!But surely they must know now, how desperate the Teflon coated Andrews must be for attention.
This sad, megalomaniac, egotisticalboofhead must be running short of money. He's 'only' receiving a $300k pension ayear -for life! Poor Dan.
Desperate people do desperate things to bring attentiontothemselves and boosttheir already inflated ego and deep pockets. Teflon Dan is one of those people.
Sadlyhis 'love child' JacintaAllan is justas bad, and Victoria is now known as the state of lawlessness.
What an absolute mess and monumental despair and continuingdestruction we are in, thanks to all the lefties who voted this rabble in.
Astate election next year; what will that bring?
More of the same most likely, because the Liberal party is about as useful as an ashtray on amotorbike. "Oh what atangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive." There has been plenty of deceit, spin and BS over the past decade from this Labor rabble. Oh well, I'm sure there will be those who willquitecandidly say 'Dan was the man' and 'Jacinta is the lady'.But the much greater majority of fed up, long suffering Victorians will disagree wholeheartedly with that sentiment. But, let's be honest, the simple truth is very cleartoall and sundry -our Labor leaders, past and present, are weak, woke and painfully bloody useless. Therelies the tale of amiserable, decade plus, degeneration and destruction of Australia and in particular
our once wonderful state. We here in Victoria are constantlylivinginfearbecauseofthisLabor party and the so-called judicial system's inaction to appropriately apply the law to never-ending crimes and cowardly criminals. What ajoke and an absolute disgrace Victoria has become. That is purely and simply afact that any intelligent person should be able to comprehend. But,I would be surprised if ado-gooder,woke, left-leaning reply isn't forthcoming. Enough is enough! Winter is over, bring on the heat! We can all look forward to going on asummerholiday.
Oliver 'Shadow' Bergens
Dandenong
THE Latrobe Valley Express welcomes letters to the editor.
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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.
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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 fabricateddepending on the poolofdata used 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.
Barometer points to local
ACCORDING to awellbeing barometer developed by the Hazelwood Health Study, community wellbeing has been trending upwards in the Latrobe Valley.
The model for the barometer is based on research conducted by the Health Study’s Community Wellbeing Stream. It tracks community wellbeing in areas of health, the economy, the environment, servicesand infrastructure,and socialconnections.
The CommunityWellbeing Barometer brings together over adecade of data from various publicly available sources to offer insight into events and trendsassociated withwellbeinginthe Latrobe Valley.
The study teamgathered data goingbackto before the 2014 Hazelwood minefire, mapping trends in wellbeingagainst major events since that time, including the COVID-19 pandemic
Comment: truly great pollies
STRANGELY, even alarmingly, Ifind myself in accordwiththe LatrobeValley Express’most regularcorrespondent,inpromotinghigh quality women in Australian politics ('Revived Libs', LVE Opinion, 10/09').
Certainly, her first example Julie Bishop, did serve Australia with distinction as Foreign Minister.
Then, like lemmings tumblingoff acliff,the quality plummets.
Bro nw yn Bisho p, now as el f- ri ghte ous pontificator on Sky News After Dark, is best remembered for spending thousands in taxpayer money to hire ahelicopter to transport her to CliftonSpringsGolf Clubfor aLiberal Party fundraiser.
MoiraDeeming, in throwing agrenade into the Victorian Liberal party room, destroyed the career of the only Liberal leader in recent times on track for an election win. (Sure, John Pesutto made seriously bad calls, but was it worth it Moira to chuck away an election?).
And finally, walking talking headline, Peta Credlin, brilliantly portrayed in Niki Savva’s book, The Road to Ruin,was notsomuchChief of Staff for Tony Abbott, but in reality, Chief of Everything, including the blushing PM himself
But like to Kevin 07, I’m here to help. What great Australian women can we nominate to override this toxic trio?
Fromyourcorrespondent’s era and her sideof politics, SenatorMargaret Guilfoyle would be among the mostbalanced, articulateand graceful members of Parliament in Australian history.
Kate Ellis, despite having ayoung family, dedicatedher relatively short career to laying thegroundwork for future women leaders.
Sally Cray, an ex-local to boot, as Chief of Staff for Malcolm Turnbull, was no headline seeker, but did what aChief of Staff is supposed to do; be clinicallyefficient, while flying under the radar. So, the sentiment if not the specifics, of your correspondent is spot on.
As the macho rump of Morrison, Abbott and Dutton is elbowed aside by the electorate, what better way to replace than with more unselfish, thoughtful women with the mission of making our nation abetter place.
Ian Whitehead Traralgon
Take note
AREMINDER to the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister: Israel has constructed multiple settlementstomakea Palestinianstatepossible in the past. Each time, the Palestinians have dismantled the opportunity. Howmanymoretimes does the opportunity need to be given?
If only ourPMand other worldleaders can remember the phrase: "those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it".
Not my words, but the words of agreat man by the name of Winston Churchill.
Jim Churchill Traralgon
and industry closures. The findings show that community wellbeing has fluctuated over the last decade but is trending upwards.
Prof. Da mian Morgan from James Cook University, who led the development of the barometer, said:“theCommunity Wellbeing Barometer provides atool for tracking important changes occurring within acommunity over time.
The toolalsoallowsfor ready performance comparison between the Latrobe Valley and selected regions while potentially informing future scenario planning."
CommunityWellbeing Stream Lead investigator, Dr Susan Yell, who is based at Federation University, said that she hoped with further
funding, it would be possible to develop the barometer model into an accessible tool which could be used by different organisations interested in trackinglong-term shifts in community wellbeing.
“While the Barometer’s findings don’t reflect the diversity of experience within acommunity, they do show overall trends indicating areas of potential future investment to support communitywellbeing. We hope that these findings will be of interest to the Latrobe community,” Dr Yell said.
Research was funded by the state government. For more information about the Hazelwood Health Study, visit: www.hazelwoodhealthstudy. org.au
Image: istock
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World class care at LRH
By AIDAN KNIGHT
LATROBE Regional Hospital has taken one large step for Gippsland-kind, after it opened its second cardiac catheterisation lab earlier this month.
This allows LRH to perform its own pacemaker installations.
The new catheterisation lab is the first of its kind in Victoria, allowing better imaging and areduced radiation emittance thanks to the AI-powered Canon Alphenix evolvesystem. The system produces 40 per cent less radiation than the previously used one, and the artificial intelligence digitally upscales the imaging process, making for clearand moreprecise images forsurgeons to work with.
LRH Cardiology Director, Dr Derek Pol said the new lab will provide Gippslanders with faster access to critical, life-savingprocedures,without the dreaded Melbourne commute.
"Just because we're regionaldoesn't make regional patients second-class citizens," he said. "We (LRH) don't want to rest on our laurels. We can be the best of the best, and that's what we're aiming for."
Dr Pol wants to fightthe misconceptionthat regional hospitals offer inferior care, citinghow regional hospitals can match, and now, in the new lab, exceed those of metropolitan standard.
"All of my staff come from the Alfred or Victorian Harper," he said.
"Regional patients can drive less, nothave to pay for parking, and be provided with the same quality care."
Hospitals like Bendigo and Ballarat have been developing specialisedservices for years, and Latrobe is now rapidly catching up, planningto expand its heart failure and transplant services.
The same day the lab opened, LRH was host to its first-ever pacemaker installation, after which the Express spoke to the surgeon who performed the procedure, Dr David Chieng.
His view on the importance of regional healthcare was similar to Dr Pol's, even as ametropolitan physician,working alsoatthe Alfred, Epworth, and Royal Melbourne.
"There's certainly agrowingneed for pacemakers in the regions where we have an aging population, and the number of patientswho need pacemakers becomemore as the years go on," he said.
"Lots of patientshave always foundittroublesome to go down to Melbourne, so to be able to do it here,
Ithink it's been quite helpful."
Dr Chieng finished his cariology training in 2018, before completinga fellowshipinpacing and ablations at the Alfred for four years, and has been aconsultant for three years now. He holds 23 separate awards for his work and research in
Powerful steps taken
By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT
THE community showed its support for World Suicide PreventionDay (September10),remembering lost love ones and shining aspotlight on an issue that affects us all.
National not-for-profit Lifeline held its annual Out of the Shadows Walk where people were encouraged to walk nine kilometres to honour those who've died to suicide.
Locals held their own individual walks across the Latrobe Valley,while public gatherings facilitated by Lifeline Gippsland were held in Traralgon and Morwell last week.
Coordinated events included the Railway Reserve Loop, Traralgon on Tuesday, September 9and a walk along Lake Kernot, Morwell on Wednesday, September 10, as well as on Monday, September 8atBrooker Park Wetlands, Warragul.
More than $14,000 was donated as apart of the campaign, with money raised going directly towardsLifeline's participation on the 13 11 14 crisis number and the deliveryofsuicide prevention programs across Gippsland.
Lifeline Gippsland Chief Executive, Cindy Pullar acknowledged that this year's initiative was one of its largest, primarilydue to the support from the community.
"We remember those who died by suicide, those who have attempted to take their own life, and those who supported them," she said.
"Regular conversations help people feel
the cardiovascular sector, three of which applied to his PHD alone, and was described by Dr Pol as "top tier in his field".
"Ourpatients deserve that," Dr Pol said of his colleague’s expertise.
"It's about equity, speed, safety, and communitycentred care. It's not just about capacity, it's about bringing critical heart care into the heart of the community."
Dr Pol clarified that this new expanded capability was not limited to onlyLatrobe residents, and will happily service those from Bairnsdale and as far as Drouin.
"If you're apublicpatient in either of thoseareas, we would love to have you. We want to look after regional patients," he said.
With cutting-edge technology and specialist expertise now in Traralgon, Latrobe Regional Hospital is reshaping the future of healthcare in Gippsland.
Foundation addresses needs
LATROBE Health Services, marking 75 years of supporting Australian communities, has proudly announced the launchofThe Latrobe Health Services Foundation,
The foundation is abold initiative to address growing health inequities facedbypeopleliving outside metropolitan centres.
The foundation is dedicated to improving healthoutcomes in rural and regional communities -alife-changing mission made possible by focusing on the core challenges of accessibility, equity and affordability in healthcare, strengthened by acommitment to enhancing options for preventive health management.
The foundation builds on Latrobe Health Services’ storied legacy of community care.
It will fund and support programs that deliver long-term, meaningful impact, not only for members, but for all Australians in underserved areas.
Thiswill be achievedthrough two distinct types of funding:
Strategic initiatives and partnershipslarge-scale, multi-year support that can have ascalable impact on health outcomes in rural/ regional Australia, and; Grants program -targeted for community organisations and related to literacy, accessibility and equitable health service provision.
The foundation’saccesstoa$10 million funding pool from Latrobe Health Services will actively support the initiatives andpartnerships that strengthen health outcomes among rural and regional Australians, and ultimately Latrobe Health members, with carefully considered management to ensure that resources are directed where they are needed most -and where they can have the greatest impact.
"Overcoming issuesofhealthinequityisone of the most critical issues Australiansinregional, rural and remoteareas face,"Latrobe Health Services Chief Executive, Ian Whitehead said.
"The Latrobe Health Services Foundation is aproactive waytohelp tackle that issue in away that is purposeful and driven by the needfor improved outcomes. Thefoundation represents our purpose, and we look forward to it strengthening our commitment to quality care for all Australians."
As part of its inaugural initiatives, the foundation has partnered with Phoenix Australia, the National Centre of Excellence in post-traumatic mental health.
new mobilephone application to enhance mental health and wellbeinginrural andregional communities, where mental health services are often limited or inaccessible.
The app is centred around the Skills for Life Adjustment and Resilience (SOLAR) program, a well-researchedand evidence-based intervention developed by Phoenix Australia already shown to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and posttraumatic stress. SOLAR is designed to improvemood, boost wellbeing and help individuals manage stress, and has already demonstrated positive outcomes across both face-to-face and digital delivery. What sets this initiative apart is its commitment to community-drivendevelopment. Input from rural and regional Australians ensures it meets the specific needs and experiences of the communitiesitaimstoserve. Athree-year randomisedcontrolledtrial, conducted by Phoenix Australia, willassess the effectivenessofthe new SOLAR-Rural app -contributing valuable data to thegrowing field of digital mental health.
“We recognise the complex challenges facing our rural communities, this initiative will provide simple, practical and evidenced based skills to managestresseffectively,"Head Research at Phoenix Australia, Meaghan O'Donnell said.
"Our goal is to empower individuals with skills that build resilience in the face of ongoing pressures."
In addition to major strategicprojects,the fou ndation has launc hed aS mall Gra nts Programtosupportgrassroots organisations driving local health improvements.Grants will fund initiatives aligned with the foundation’s four pillars, from boosting health literacy to breaking down barriers to care.
The inaugural round of communitygrants has funded projects in regional areas to support people living with Type 1Diabetes, seniors needing health checks,access to speech pathology and occupational therapy, suicide alertness training and maintenance and spare parts for alifesaving defibrillator.
Eligible applicants must be based in arural or regional area -Australia-wide, hold avalid ABN or ACN, operate as anongovernment or community-based organisation, and have been established for at least 12 months.
understood and valued and create connection and belonging, meaning those who are struggling feel safe to reach out for help.
"By bringing these hidden struggles outofthe shadows, communities build connection, trust and resilience -and in turn, thiscreates asafetynet for everyone."
At the Lake Kernot gathering,pots of colour were donated by Bunnings Morwell, with participants given the choice to write the names of their loved ones lost to suicide onto apot or on their tops over their hearts.
Latrobe City Councillor, Leanne Potter attended the Morwell event, articulating the importance of sparking these conversations.
"Every step reminded us that no one should ever have to face their darkest hour alone," she said.
"Together we can break the silence, raise awareness and show support for those who may be struggling."
Additional communitysupportwas seen from Victoria Police, ACSO (Australian Community Support Organisation), TAFE Gippsland, Positive MindsGippsland, Quantum SupportServices, and Anglicare Victoria.
To showyoursupport, visit:outoftheshadows. org.au
If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14, text 0477 131114, or chat online at: www. lifeline.org.au
Tog ethe r, Lat robe He al th Ser vices and Phoenix Australiaare developing and pilotinga
Examples of eligible projects include health education sessions led by qualified professionals,community first aid training, workshopson chronicdisease management andhealthbooths or pop-up clinics at local events.
Expert: Dr DavidChieng performed the pacemaker installation surger y. Photograph: Aidan Knight
Shape change: The Lifeline Gippsland team with Latrobe City Councillor, Leanne Potter (hoodie). Photographs supplied
Crew: Latrobe Health Ser vices Chief Executive, IanWhitehead, Latrobe HealthSer vices BoardChair,Ormond Pearson, HillEnd CommunityIncor poratedDebraManning,Wellington ShireCouncil’sLilyTatterson, Sale Rorary Club’sColin Adams,Lifeline Gippsland’s Jack Symes and Cindy Pullar and Latrobe Health Ser vices Foundation Chair,Simon Grant.
Real deal: Scenes from the very firstpacemaker installed at Latrobe RegionalHealth earlierthis month. Photograph supplied
Yallourn Mine lake all part of plan
By PHILIP HOPKINS
AMASSIVElakeinthe Yallourn mine is the cornerstone of Energy Australia’s rehabilitation plan, whose details must be completed by the end of this year to setthe ballrolling for the power station's closure in 2028.
The Acting Rehabilitation leader,Paul Metlikovec, comes straight to the point during an interview with the Express:“The power station closure is coming fast, so there is aneed for certainty. To deliver thework, we must start planning and detailed designs straight away.” Mr Metlikovec, 37, from Churchill, is acivil and environmental engineer who graduatedlocally from Monash University (now Federation Uni).
The massive enterprise has arehabilitation bond on the site of $182 million. The bond represents 100 per cent of the estimated rehabilitation cost. Under new government legislation in 2022, the Declared Mine Rehabilitation Plan (DMRP) must be completed by the end of this year. The highly detailed plan, a486-pagedocument, underwent a required60-day community consultation period that ended on August 18.There were 23 formal submissions, anumberofconsultations, information at variousfarmers markets, adedicatedarea in theMorwell GovernmentHub, two onlinewebinars, and anumberofonline fit-for-purpose content and engagements with 10,000 people through website 'hits' and social media.
EnergyAustralia's Yallourn team is nowupdating the DMRP based on feedback received during the stakeholder consultation period. These updates will be included in the DMRP submission to Resources Victoria later this year.
Mr Metlikovec said there was alot of informal
engagement, with informal feedback mainly positive. Most, particularly from environmentalists, were concerned about the impact on downstream wetlands,with water useingeneral acommon theme.Farmers also had input. The rehabilitation planwentthrough an environmentaleffectsstatement (EES) in 1999 and 2001, but it was “likely to be referred again”, he said.
At the plan’s heartisalake, about 665 gigalitres in size,thatwill take about 24 years to fill.
“The hole has two parts -the Western Side with an averagedepthof60metres,andtheeasternMaryvale Fieldwithanaverage80mdepth,”MrMetlikovecsaid, withtheMorwellRiverDiversionrunningin-between
Outofthatbig hole over the decades came about one billion tonnes of brown coal. Sometimes old trees that had not entirely been transformed into coal were found in the mine, especiallyright at the top of the coal and bottom of the seam.
“You seealot of that. The power stationdoes not appreciate it when we deliver logs they cause damage, they don't burn well,” he quipped.
The lake will be surrounded by environmental and conservationzones, with agricultural zones and commercial land offering industrial opportunities.
It's alot of water. The lake was originally proposedbythe former State Electricity Commission (SEC) back in the early-to-mid1990s, and has been confirmed by successive modelling and investigations.
The amount of water to be used will be determined by the water access conditions of the LV Regional Rehabilitation Strategy.
“We have not yet appliedfor abulk water entitlement, but it is quite similar to the current entitlement,” Mr Metlikovec said, with more environmental conditions included.
TAFE Gippsland’snew energy partners
TAFEGippsland hasannouncedZenviron as a foundation partner in the institute’s new Clean Energy Centre, currently under construction at TAFE Gippsland's Morwell campus.
Zenviron, which designs and constructs large renewable energy projects, has beenengaged by Energy Australia to deliver the design, construction, installation and commissioning of Balance of Plant civil and electrical works for the Wooreen Battery Energy Storage Systeminthe Latrobe Valley.Zenviron is now investing in the future of Gippsland’s cleanenergy workforce, partnering withTAFEGippsland in theClean Energy Centre to accelerate the clean energy transition.
TAFEGippslandChief Executive, Laura MacphersoncongratulatedZenvironfor playing afounding role in anationally significant education and training initiative.
“Our new Clean Energy Centrewill lead the training and development of Gippsland’sclean energy workforce,” she said.
“The state-of-the-art facility, fundedbythe Victorian government, will deliver word-class vocational trainingincleanand sustainable energytechnologiesand we are very happy that Zenviron has recognised the importance of this future-focussed facility and has come on board as afoundation partner.
“This partnership will enable Zenviron to play an active role in supporting the cleanenergy workforces of the future.”
Zenviron General Manager, Beth Rigby said the company was pleased to have the opportunity to support the clean energy workforce of tomorrow.
“Zenviron’s mission is to deliver sustainable clean, safe and affordable renewable energy infrastructure,” she said.
“We are committed to aclean energy future while engaging with local communities, industry and the emerging workforce that will help drivethe region’s transition.
“Among other benefits,thispartnership will allow us to invest in studentsuccess, with pathway scholarships to support young people in Gippsland to pursue clean energy trade careers.”
Excellence: Zenviron representativeJason Thain presents Amber Leyshan (centre) with her Gippsland CommunityImpact awardalongside
TAFE Gippsland ChiefExecutive, Laura Macpherson (left) at thisyear’s TAFE Gippsland Education Awards Photograph supplied
The plan sets out the advantages of alake:
-It stabilisesthe land by adding weight to the floor of the mine and the walls of the mine, known as ‘batters’. This weight countersthe forces that cause ground movement;
-It reduces fire risk.Leaving the coal exposed could lead to higher fire risk. Anatural barrier, a lake could help limit the spread of any from one area to another;
-A recreational area for fishing, boatingand swimming, and apotential boost to the economy through tourism, and;
-Environmental restoration. Apit lake can help restore the local ecosystem, creating ahabitat for aquatic life and various species of birds and other wildlife.
Mr Metlikovec said the lakecould have industrial uses such as afloating solar, “We have not gone too far into looking at that, but water quality would be capable forthose uses. There would be some tradeoffs between recreation and other uses,” he said.
“We already have 600ha of conservation that surrounds the mine. That will be protected in perpetuity. The environmental zones link to existing areas and that links into bio-link strategy that Latrobe City has developed for the local area.”
Mr Metlikovec said the surrounding conservation areas would have the highest level of protection, with theenvironmental zones takinginopen space, andapotential vision of bike tracks, walking tracks and community access.
“In the economic zone, we will explore economic opportunities;it’savalue-add option that comes before the handover of the site. We will explore that on acase-by-case basis."
Energy Australia still has abig role to play once the Yallourn power station closes.
“We are abig company, we are not about to disappear. WhileYallourn is closing,wehavea local presence with the Jeeralang gas-fired power station and the nearby 750MW Wooreen battery, and arangeofother sites and retail customers in Australia. We are committed to doing the work.”
Yallourn Wpower station was commissioned in the early 1970s.
“You won’t find too many coal-fired stations older than that; it’s getting close to its use-by date,” Mr Metlikovec said.
There is alot more coal under the current mine if further or other uses for it could be found.
"It probably goes down to about 400 metres, but it gets more difficult to mine. You get sand layers in the seams, water pressures, the deeper you go, the harder it goes -but it is there,” Mr Metlikovec said.
The plan’s other key features include:
Maintain the Morwell River Diversion in its current locations with some improvement works to support longer term stability;
Reshaping the batters to create the final landform that has long-term safety and stability;
Removal of surface water diversions required during operations. This will reinstate natural flow directions of rainfall run-off, allowing water to enter the pit and improve ground stability;
Construction of aspillway in the Morwell River Diversion to allow Morwell River and Latrobe River flood flows to enter the pit lakes during major floods to protect the MRD from excessive water, and;
Construction of alake overflow in the northeast corner of the East Field to allow excess water during floods to spill safely into the Latrobe River.
Trespassing branded as law state ‘failure’
THEpassingofanewlawthatallowsVicGridtoforcibly enterprivatelandisasignoffailure,aGippslandcommunity group said.
Better Transmission Gippsland (BTG), anetwork of landholders, professionals and those in the community, says the law is asignoffailure, not strength.
“This isn’t afix. It’s an admission that the system has failed to bring people with it in the transition to renewables,” said BTG chair, Kirra Bott.
The passage of the National Electricity (Victoria) Amendment (VicGrid Stage 2Reform) Bill 2025 gives VicGridsweeping new powers to forcibly enter private property and fine farmers for obstructing access, up to $12,210 per offence.
"This confirms what many in the renewables industry already fear:poor decisions are being locked in, and those who question them are being pushed out," Ms Bott said.
BTG has spent more than two years advocating for what it says is asmarter,modern approach to transmission -one that protects farmland, respects community input and reflects global best practice.
“We’re not anti-renewables; we’re allies of the renewables industry. Offshore wind off the coast of Gippsland will be the new Latrobe Valley.What we do here isn’t just about power generation, it’s
aboutenergysecurity for the entire state. But if youconnect it with the wrong infrastructure, you put everyone's future at risk,” Ms Bott said.
“And, we’re not talking about just one transmission line. If the project develops to its full potential, Gippsland is looking at six or more new transmission lines in the years ahead.
"That’s why the firstone matters. If we get it wrong here, we risk compounding the problem at every step that follows.”
Thegroupsaidtherealfailurehasnothingtodowith landholders.Therealfailureisthegovernment’songoing refusal to questionoutdated overheadtransmission assumptions pushed by AEMO and AusNet.
“This isn’t about inadequate planning,” said Ms Bott. “It’s about convenience overcourage. The government is accepting flawed assumptions, protecting vested interests and punishing the people who dare to ask for something better.”
What makes these new powers evenharder to swallow, Ms Bott said, is that Gippsland landholders are already dealing with overlapping infrastructure demands.
“CarbonNet, gas pipelines, road expansions and more. Yet we’restill at the tableand engaged.
We’re trying to make things work better, and the thanks we get is alaw that threatensuswith fines
for asking hard questions,” she said.
BTG argues that underground transmission, specifically HVDC, is the global standard for offshore wind. The group says it is the only option that delivers secure energy supply for consumers and businesses. It also offers long-term value, not just lower conflict.
“Thecostdifference? About $2.31per month per household. That’s less than athird of acup of coffee,”MsBottsaid. “It’sa small price to securethe system we’re all goingtodepend on. If transmission fails, energy securityfails. And when that happens, households go dark, businesses lose income, and all Victorians pay the price.”
BTG says the government’s refusal to back HVDC is part of abroader problem.
“Transmission is the biggest bottleneck in the entire energy transition. But it’s the one part governmentrefuses to invest in properly,”Ms Bott said.
“Billions are flowingtosupport wind, solar and offshore projects, as well as skills and manufacturing. But when it comes to investing in the infrastructure that gives the best return and actually connects it all, the cupboard is bare.
“This isn’t about what’s best for consumers or energy security. It’s about who profits. Overhead
transmission benefits anarrow group –the big contractors, the unionised workforce represented by the ETU, and the legacy infrastructure owners who helped build the old grid. Meanwhile,communities are expected to carry thecosts, absorb the risks, and now rural communities face fines if they ask too many questions.”
BTG says this double standard reveals adeeper issue -one of power imbalance.
“Thisisagovernment that talks partnershipbut legislates power,” Ms Bott said.
“It’s backing the industry incumbents. It’s giving enforcement powerstoVicGrid. And it’s leaving communitieslikeourstocarry the cost of decisions we have no real say in.”
Ms Bott said the refusal to genuinely consider underground HVDC, the proven global standard, made it fair to ask asimple question.
“If this isn’t about energy security, or long-term value, or getting the transition right, then people need to start asking. Just who really benefits?” she said.
“We need to stop seeingsecure transmission as a cost and start treating it as what it is –the single most importantinvestment we can make to deliver the clean energy future.”
Farmers hit hardest by new ESVP taxes
AS local government rates notices hit letterboxes across the state, farmers are highlighting the madnessofthe Emergency Servicesand Volunteers Fund tax (ESVF) now hitting the pockets of Victorian homeowners.
Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) President, Brett Hosking said the mountingoutrage is adding more weight to calls to scrap massive increases in the tax.
“People are opening their rates notices to reveal this new cash grab by the state government,” he said.
“If you’re ahomeowner, take amoment to consider thatafarmer would be forced to pay 166 percent of what you’re paying for aproperty of the same value.
“The lunacy is if I’m ahomeowner and my neighbour’s house catches fire, people call 000. As afarmer and volunteer firefighter, if my neighbour has afire, they call us. Through the CFA we are the fire department and we’ll be slugged this backward tax for the privilege.”
The VFF has warned the tax could exacerbate existing financial pressures on farmingfamilies, who already shoulder the cost of maintaining firebreaks, equipment, and volunteer firefighting commitments.
“It’s not just atax,it’sa fundamental misunderstanding of who is already paying and protecting the community,” Mr Hosking said.
“There is absolutely no support for this tax not from the fire services, not from local councils and overwhelmingly not from farmers and regional communities."
MORE than 700 Victorian farmers had their say in the first State of the State: Victorian Farmer Priorities Survey.
Results showed nine in 10 farmers don’t believe the state government understands local issues or has apositive plan to grow the industry.
Farmers outlined increasestothe Emergency Services andVolunteers Fund, the state of regional roads, maintaining biosecurity safety net and
Glen Pub raising awareness
By KATRINABRANDON
RAI SIN Gag la ss or two for farmer s, the Glengarry Pub participated in thenational charity,Flannel For AFarmer Day, with the Farm Angels and Travla.
Flannel for AFarmer or Wear aFlanno raises money and awareness for Australian farmers doing it tough by gettingpeoplearound the country to chuck on their flannos.
According to the Travlawebsite, most farmers wouldgive the shirts off their backs if it meant helping someone in need,and they considered it a“small gesture” to do the same for them.
Finding this inspiring, the Glengarry Pub jumped on board.
“My husband and Itry as much as we can to support local businesses or Australianbusinesses,” Glengarry Pub owner, Kathy Voyer said.
“I'd been watching the Travla beer for awhile, and it popped up on their page about doing this'Flanno for aFarmer'. All the money goestowards Farm Angels, who help farmers who are in need, whether it be from droughts, floods or anything that they need.
“The money raised goes towards helping farmers in ourarea,and most of our localsare farmers, whether it's dairyfarmers, cattlefarmers… most of our customers, our locals are farmers.”
The fundraisingnight was held last month on Flanno For AFarmer Day (August 15). Pub
customers bought beers and parmas throughout the night, with $1 per Travla beer and $5 per parma going to the fundraiser.Donation buckets were also available.
Ms Voyer said they ended up selling 52 classic parmas and 126 Travla beers, with extra donations rolling in on the side, which came to afundraising total of $2218.
“Without farmers, we don't have anything,”
Ms Voyer expressed.
“I am originallyfromMelbourne, but moved up six years ago pre-COVID, but Iwas very aware of that. People from Melbourne don’t realise that (the importance of farmers).”
Bringing produce to the plate, Farm Angels, was established as Drought Angels in 2014 to respond to the needs of primary producers impacted by prolonged drought, initially in Queensland.
Since then, the organisation has expanded to providefinancial assistance, food hampers, care packs,and mental wellbeingsupport to more than 4700 primary producers affected by all natural disasters (drought, flood, fire, and plagues) in over 1300 communities across Australia.
The frequencyand severity of natural disasters means many are at risk of losing their farm or losing their livelihood.According to a2021study listed on the Farm Angels website, one farmer suicides every 10 days (59 per cent higher than non-farmers).
steamrolling of renewable energy infrastructure developments as the top issues across the state.
Mr Hosking said the frank results should ring alarmbells for the stategovernment, and be a‘wake up’ call for genuineengagement and discussion with farmers and rural communities.
“Farmers and our regional communities have sent ablunt message that they aren’t being listened to and have lost faith that our Victorian government has their back,” he said.
“From massive increases to the Emergency Services and VolunteersFund, roads literally falling apart and communities being steamrolled in the face of renewable energy infrastructure, farmers have alot to worry about.
“More than 92 per cent of farmers don’t believe the Victorian government understands or is even listening to the concerns of farming communities. That’s amassive indictment and it must change, becausethey’velostthe trustofthesefarming communities."
Despite the blunt results of the survey, Mr Hosking said there remainsconsiderable opportunity andabright outlook for Victorianagriculture.
“Victorian farmers are the best in the nation at what they do. We produce 25 per cent of Australia’s food and fibre valueusing justthreeper cent of Australia’s farmland.Weemploy more than 150,000 people and contributemorethan $20billion to Victoria’s and Australia’s economy,” he said.
“When we have the nation’s best farmers working on the nation’s best farmland, imagine what we could achieve if our Victorian and Australian governments supported our farmerstoachieve even more.
“We’re just over 12 months from the next state election. We want to support all sides of politics to get solutionstotheseissuesand growVictoria’s farming future."
Protect against risks of QFever
GIPPSLAND farmers are being urged to protect themselves against QFever this Spring, particularly those in contactwith cattle, sheep and goats.
Spring calving is apeakrisk periodwhen farmers are exposed to birthingfluids,placental material, and animalwaste, which increases the risk of contracting QFever.
QFever is mainly spread by inhaling dust or air particlescontaminated by bacteria from infected animals.
It is aseriousand potentially long-lasting disease that continues to disproportionately affect the Gippsland farming community at alarming rates.
Last year, Gippsland accounted for 45 per cent of all QFever cases in Victoria, the highest rate recorded in the state in the past decade.
Gippsland Region Public Health Unit (GRPHU) is encouraging all eligible workers aged 15 and over to get vaccinated before the calving workload intensifies.
GRPHU is working closely with localGPs, farmers, and industry bodies including GippsDairy and AgVic to raise awareness at this critical time of year.
GRPHU Public Health Physician, Dr Shereen Labib said vaccination remained the most effective way for workers to protect themselves.
“Don’t wait until it’s too late, get protected this calving season,” Dr Labib said.
“Get tested early if symptoms appear as QFever is treatable with antibiotics if caught promptly, and makesure to tell your GP if you work in a high-risk occupation.”
QFever can cause severe flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headaches, drenching sweats, muscle aches and fatigue and in serious cases, it can affect the lungs and liver.
Occasionally peoplecan develop chronic QFever which can affect the heart and joints.
About one in 10 people experience long-term fatigue, impacting farm productivity due to inability to work and recovery may take months, or even years.
People most at risk include farmers, stockagents, livestock transporters, shearers,wool handlers, and abattoir workers in close contact with cattle, sheep and goats.
Family members and others living withhigh-risk workers are also urged to remain vigilant, as the bacteria can clingtocontaminatedclothing,boots, and equipment brought into the home.
Dr Labib also urged people to wear P2 masks and gloves when working with birthing animals, as well as washing hands and arms thoroughly with soapy water after animal contact.
For more information, or to findout where to get vaccinated, visit: lrh.com.au/news/q-feverawareness-campaign-for-farm-workers/
Team effort: Flanno forA Farmer wasinfull swingatthe Glengarr yPub last month. Photograph supplied
Raise aglass: Suppor trolled in at theGlengarr yPub forWear aFlanno forFarmers, with KristyLewis andGlengarr yPub owner KathyVoyer running theevent.
Photograph: Katrina Brandon
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Sky’sthe limit
By KATRINA BRANDON
MORWELL dog Sky is afriendly face to many in the community.
Sky serves as both amedical alert dog and bestfriendfor owner, Amy Warman.
“She's my lifesaver,” Ms Warman said.
Ms Warman and Sky’s partnership started 11 years ago in Dandenong, where adog breeder was inbreeding pitbulls with staffies for fights.The breeder eventually got reported, and three pups were found behind ashed. When the pups were found, it sparked the start of agreat friendship.
Ms Warmanlived in Dandenong for 15 years, before moving to the Latrobe Valley.
“I decided to get away from the city,” she said.
“My friend said that there were cheap houses (in Morwell). So Idecided to buy ahouse there.”
Two years ago, Ms Warman’s oldest brother’s daughter passed away. Before her death, Sky wouldn’t leave her niece alone.
Ms WarmansaidSky's abilityasa medical dog was incredible.
“I collapsed three years ago. Sky barked, she nearly went through the glass. She wouldhave probablysmashed the glass to get out," Ms Warman said. Whilehavinga protective manner, Skyalsohas asweet and welcoming personality.
Throughout the week, Ms Warmansaid she loves to take Sky through the streets of Morwell, where peopleofall ages come up for cuddles.
“She’s my angel,” Ms Warman said.
“There must be some kind of magic it makes people so beautiful, smiling and happy.”
Best friends: Morwell local, Amy Warman with medical aler tdog,Sky Photograph: KatrinaBrandon
Helping hand for history
ROS EDALE Histor ica lS oc iety has been awarded a$3000 grantthrough the 2024/25 Volunteers Grants Program.
The program supports the vital work of local volunteers across Gippsland.
The grant, delivered by Federal Member for Gippsland, DarrenChester,willhelp replace thesociety's oldgas heaters with amore ecofriendly split system. “The Rosedaleand District Historical Society plays an important role in our community by protecting local heritage and providing aplace for people to connect withtheir past,” Mr Chester said.
“This grant will help create asafer and more comfortableenvironmentfor the volunteers
who give so much of their time, as well as the visitors who come to learn about the district’s rich history.
“It’sasmall but meaningfulinvestment in the long-term sustainability of the society and its work in preservingour local stories for future generations.”
Mr Chester congratulated the society’s members on their successful application and thanked them for their service to the community.
“Volunteers are at the heart of everything we value in regional communities,and I’m pleased to support projects like this that make their work alittle easier and more enjoyable,” he said.
The exh ibit ion is ac olla bora tio no fw ork s from membersofGippsland’s sixcommunity photography clubs, showcasing diverse depictions of the urban,rural andcoastal landscapes and communities of Gippsland and southeast Victoria, highlightingthe technical skills and creative talent of local photographers.
Up the stairs and circulating the top part of LRG, the photographs are sorted by the different clubs involved.
On August 19, which was World Photography Day,the gallery hostedapanel,where curatorJuan Rodriguez Sandoval led aquestion-and-answer session withGippsland-based photographer Karli Duckettand Warragul-based photographer Ruth Burleigh.
Zooming in on Ms Duckett’s and Ms Burleigh’s photography careers, acrowdof20joined the conversation and litupthe discussion on the future of photography.
“(The exhibition) is awonderful opportunity for us to give back and further encourage all these wonderfulgroups that havecometogether to supply some wonderful exhibitions,” Mr Rodriguez told the group. The exhibition is open until September 21.
KarliDuckett
WEARING multiplehats,Karli Duckett is a Gippsland-based photographic artist and healthcare professional, whose work explores the quiet power of everyday moments.
Working with the manifesto The Good Side,Ms Duckett aims to create visualnarratives that honourthe complexity, dignity, and beauty of people, places, and communities, particularly those often underrepresented in mainstream imagery.
Ms Duckett’s photography has been featured in regionalpublications, including Gippslandia and Celebrate Network.Alongside her commercial andeditorial work,she develops fine art projects and limited edition prints that celebrate slow, thoughtful observation.
An active advocate for the Gippsland art community, Ms Duckett is acurrentmember of the South Gippsland Arts Advisory Committee, and looksforward to an Art Cube residency in Leongatha this month, featuring The HumankindProject.Theprojectplacesastrongemphasis on community connection, visibility, and sharing local
stories.
Bringing Ms Duckett behind the camera, her high school history teacherhelped bring passion to thelens.
“I had avery eccentric high school teacher,” Ms Duckett told the group.
“Mr Conquest, who was our history teacher, instead of teaching us history, he used to take us into the dark room and let us run around the school, rounds of cameras and develop films and things in the dark room. He was aphotographer himself.
“The dark room is definitely avery easy place to fall in love with photography.”
WhileMsDuckett was passionate about photography, shejumped into the healthcare system and put away the camera to provide income security forherself.
About five years ago, Ms Duckett reached out to the arts officer at South Gippsland Shire Council. At the time, the arts officer was putting into place an art project, the Great Southern Rail Trail, and was pairing farmers with artists.The artists would go onto the farm properties and develop their own conceptofaninstallation,with the idea being that people couldcome from anywhere and see the art.
Sincethen, Ms Duckett has worked with local governments on community-based projects and collaborated with several agricultural companies, documenting their farmers and creating stories for them.
Ms Ducketttold the crowdthat the work donein thecommunityisbuilt on real connections.
“I have also been gifted acouple of really amazing opportunitiestodolonger projects that are also very deeply in community,” she said.
“These two programs are probably the best of the long-term projects that Iwas able to work on. So this was aproject that wasn't my conception. I was good enough with the idea that it was really hashed out. But it was celebrating some of our fabulousethnic women. It really delvedquite deep into some big themes.
“We had peoplewho were involved with environmental projects, there were discussions on domestic violence, therewere farmers, anditbecamesuch a broad range of women, and we did end up bringing them all together at the end to celebrate people. We would often talk and talk for quite awhile,and then we started using the camera.
“I've always been very interested in the human experience. That also ties back to my healthcare background. Although Ihad moved on from healthcare,I still work with it, and it has been incredibly formative in shaping my current perspective. I'm still always curious about people and their stories and my own share of myself.”
Ruth Burleigh
PARENTS have an influenceonwhattheir children become inspired to do, and Ruth Burleigh was no exception.
Being inspired to jump intophotography,Ms Burleigh’s father was passionate about photography but held it as ahobby rather than acareer. It
wasn’t until later that Ms Burleigh became serious about photography, when she started working as apress photographer, aposition she held for more than 10 years. Having retired from the Warragul &Drouin Gazette about 20 years ago, Ms Burleigh decided to further her educationinphotography. Ms Burleigh's enrolment in the Melbourne School of Art marked the beginning of her journey to create the exhibition and book, Living History In August 2001, Ms Burleigh first conceived the idea for Living History, which involved photographing as many people living in the Neerim District who had helped shape the district into what it is today.
Ms Burleigh had threemonthstovisit, interview, photograph,and develop and process all these images. When making arrangements to see these volunteers, she asked if they would be willing or able to be photographed wherever possible in the environment in which they were carrying out their voluntary service. Many of thesepeople were in their senior years and no longer working; in such cases, she would photograph them in their home environment.
In 1991, Ms Burleigh joined the Royal Camera Club and has enjoyed her time with various projects.
“I'veeither been on the committee in one form or another and Ilove it. It's my passion,” she said.
“I was out at the convention talking to various delegates through the conventionofother clubs, and Imentionedtothem, what do you think of the idea of having alittle exhibition with all of the camera clubs in Gippsland. Each club presents 10 images, and it’s rotated (from each club) each year.
“It has been going on for about 14 years.”
With help fromLRG, Ms Burleigh acknowledged their hard work in getting all the behind-the-scenes details (such as securing backing for each photograph) done for the exhibition.
Sparked into conversation, Mr Rodriguez questioned the future of technology, in which Ms Burleigh shared her views.
“Photography is something that phones are fabulous for everybody-theyhavetheir disadvantages, but they also have their advantages,” she said.
“I used to go riding up in ahigh countryalot, and it wasn't until Ijoined withthe camera and started walking through the high country that I sawthings with adifferent eye. People in our club were pointing out little orchids and stuff. Ididn't even see them before Iwalkedoverthem,but they were pointing out, and so my love of photography is changing.”
Community: Rosedale andDistrict Historical SocietyvolunteersDarr yl Wilson, Marion Logan, PamAlderson and David Alderson will benefitthanks to asuccessful VolunteersGrant application. Photograph supplied
Sharpfocus: PhotographersKarli Duckett and Ruth Burleigh spokeatLatrobe Regional Galler y’s WorldPhotographyDay withColin Cook and exhibition curator Juan Rodriguez Sandoval. Photograph: Katrina Brandon
Sharnie shines brightest
By AIDAN KNIGHT
ALL Shine Services Gippsland washonoured after winning Regional Business of the Year in the 2025 AusMumpreneur Awards.
The awards are Australia'stop event for 'mums in business',run nationally by The Women’s Business School. Finalists receive national recognition.
All Shine Services is aGippsland-based business cleaning company working across residential, commercial, builders, and spring cleaning.
The business wasnominatedfor three separate categories in the awards, which recognise regional businesses that have achieved outstanding results in all aspects of business, including marketing, profitability, influence, presentation, and customer service.
All Shine was also listed in the running this
year for the 'Overcoming the Odds' and 'Service Business' awards.
Director Sharnie Vicente toldthe Express she wasoverjoyed to be recognised.
"I was caught completely off guard, it was our first time entering awards, and suddenly we were taking home amajor title," she said.
Sharnie grew up in Woodside and now lives in Traralgon, but launched the business while living in the Northern Territory, before she moved back home with her husband 18 months ago.
Shekeptthe existing business model running in NT,and is currently in the process of expanding her Gippsland operation to several locations, including Warragul and Sale,and is also laying tracks down furtheracross the state in Ballarat.
The company currently employs 35 staff in Darwin,which is possible thanks to the development of theirinnovative online training
system thatallows Sharnietopotentially recruit nationwide.
"Itwas an idea from the get-go to be able to create employment for mums, and mums of all descriptions," Sharnie told The Express.
"If Ican give people ajob where they don't take work home, that's what matters."
Sharnie has avery strong motto to anyone in the Latrobe Valley looking to take arisk on abusiness venture the way she did: "just fail faster",proving herself to be abig believerin the only thing holding people back is themselves.
"To be an entrepreneur, you have to be bold." she said.
"If we want to try anew cleaning product, I tell my staff: buy one, try it. If it works, great. If not, it might have cost us $6 -but we've learned something. "
Supporting women with cancer
WOMEN in Traralgon and surrounding areas who have acancer diagnosis are invited to take part in afreewellbeing day designed to support physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
Held at Traralgon Tennis Association on Wednesday, October 8, the Traralgon WellbeingDay offers an opportunity to connect with others, learn practicaltipsonemotional healthand wellbeing, and enjoy arelaxed program of activities. Afamily member, partner, carer, or friend is also welcome. Delivered by Counterpart, aWomen's Health Victoria support service for women with cancer, in partnership with Gippsland Regional Integrated Cancer Service (GRICS), the day will include:
-A facilitated discussion about navigating support; -Guided movement and gentle exercise, and; -A creative activity to focus attention and provide opportunities to connect.
Morning tea and alight lunch willalsobeprovided.
Reflecting on the impact of attending aprevious wellbeing day, Traralgon local Nadine Marshall, awomanwith livedexperience of cancer and the GRICS Cancer Service Improvement Coordinator, said she found last year’s wellbeing day to be a profoundly supportive and enriching experience.
“The wellbeingday is areally great way to explore local services for women with cancer and link in with other people who are going through asimilar experience,” Nadine said.
“I attendedthe day in Bairnsdale last year and found it really helpful to connectwith others and learn fromtheir stories.It’s an affirming and healing process.
“I wish Ihad the opportunity to attend alocal wellbeing day when Iwas going throughactive treatment, but I’m grateful that Ican attend now and continue to supportwomen experiencing cancer. Iencourage lots of people to come along.”
The event is free but bookings are required.
Bookings can be made online at: counterpart.org. au/events or by calling Counterpart on 1300 781 500 Registrations close on Wednesday, October 1.
Accolade: Sharnie Vicentewon Regional Businessofthe Year at theAusMumpreneur Awards Photographs supplied Couples business: CodirectorsSharnie andMario VicenteofAll Shines Ser vices
Wellbeing the top priority at Lowanna
By KATRINA BRANDON
LOWANNA College recognisedRUOK? Dayfor
thenational day last Thursday.
Students gathered in the schoolyard to celebrate healthylearning, strong social connections and positive mindset together.
“We've been running (RU OK? Day) for acouple of years now,soweusuallyjustbring all the stalls in, whichisreally nice,” school captain Haylee said.
“I think they'rereallycool and interactive and really informal as well -itmakes people interact.”
Haylee said this year'sRUOK? Day was vital, as school life can be tough for some students.
“It’s been really good knowing we have so many different types of support that we can go to, whether that be someone in school, or just the teacher, or even someone outside the school,” Haylee said.
“I think as astudent,I feel like we’re really supported. Iguess just having the teachers organise that for us, Ifeel like it really helps. It’s really nice to know that they bring in people from the community to raise awareness about mental health.”
Along with mental health support, Haylee and the other school captains, Alaynna, Daniel and Zoe agreed that the school's Achievement Program, whichpromotes healthy minds and bodies, has been outstanding for the school.
As partofthe program, changes were made
to school's canteen, with healthier options now commonplace.
The school captainssaidthey'd only heardpositive feedback from their peers.
“I’veheard mainly justpositivethings about it eversince we have started to implement more healthy options," Daniel said.
“It kind of carries on, like it becomesa habit, like what youeat, they kind of just carry something to, like,adulthood, and then you just start to eat more healthier things, rather than just getting used to eating junk every day.”
Having seen positive impacts happen within the school,the captains said they allwish to see the program thrive in the future, despite not being able to participate once they finish their studies.
Lowanna is the first secondary school in Victoria to tick off all achievements and prioritieswithinthe program, with both students and teachersthrilled about the milestone.
CollegeWellbeingLeader,PaulFry,hasbeenleadingthe projectwith the support of Latrobe Community Health Service(LCHS)HealthPromotionOfficer,EmilyKoppen and Lucy Sevenson.
Lowanna’s recent shift (late 2023) in managing the college canteen and café has had asignificant impact on achieving the health priority. This includes offering healthier food options for students and staff,removing deepfryers (replacing them
Wellness: Lowanna College school captains Zoe, Alaynna, Haylee and Daniel joined by Lowanna’s Wellbeing Leader,Paul Fr y, in recognising and raising awareness forRUOK? Day.
with air fryers),and eliminating unhealthyfood items from the menu.
The program also targets to help schools work together on healthy eating, addressing vaping, physical activity and mental health in schools and
Photographs: KatrinaBrandon
to help create better attitudes towards health and wellbeing. For moreinformation on TheAchievement Program, go to: https://www.achievementprogram and health.vic.gov.au/education/schools
Flipping through adventurous spirit for book week
LOWANNA College celebrated its fourth annual Book Week celebrations with style this year, celebrating the theme, ‘Book an Adventure’.
Book Week was afun, creative and colourful week with activities forstudentsand stafftoget involved From the grace and beauty of characters, from Bridgetontothe dark broodingclash of Voldemort and the supportersofthe Dark Lord, the college’s2025 dress up day was bigger and better than ever. As the celebration of all things bookscontinues to grow, many more students are joining in the fun with theirown interpretations of characters from books old and new.
"It wasgreat to seesomany happy faces and smiles at our lunchtime parade when everyone showedoff their costumes. At the end of the day, many staff and students were already planning their co stu mes for next ye ar’s cele brat ions ,” Englishteacher, Emma Arthur said.
There was abook swaponTuesday of BookWeek (August16toAugust 23) where staff and students were able to donate pre-loved books and take new ones home.
"We look forward to Book Week each year -working on afun theme to decorate the library and brainstorming how we will all dress up," the school's library team said.
“It allows us to share the joy of reading and help students to develop alove for books.
“This year's Book Week theme in the library was ‘Jurassic Park’.
"The students enjoyed avariety of games and having their photos taken throughout the week."
"Decorating the libraryduring Book Week brings in additional students who may not usually visit the library.
Support: Lowanna students gathered forfun activities and social funfor RU OK? Daylast week
Council committed to protecting children
By AIDANKNIGHT
LATROBE City Council has taken astrong stance on the future of earlychildhood educationand care.
At its August meeting (held at Moe Town Hall), council supported state government-led reform into the protection of those placed in care, while also refusing acontroversial proposal for the development of anew childcare centre in Morwell.
Councillors addressed amotion from Yallourn Ward'sCouncillor, Steph Morgan, calling for an overhaul of the hiring process which deems aperson suitable to work in the childcare sector.
Councillors saw the current process as apaper shuffle, which Newborough Ward Cr, Sharon Gibson described as "not hard enough".
The details of the proposed changes included the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECE&C) sector taking part in acentralised national Working with Children Check (WWCC) database.
It is hopedthis willcloseloopholes across borders, as each state operates independently in the current WWCC setup. Under anational system, it is envisaged inconsistencies in different standards, processes and renewals will be eliminated.
Additionally, it will mean those who failure to meetthe standards will be prevented fromobtainingaWWCCinall states -a logical move that is alarmingly not currently in place.
Other proposed changes include increasing the educator-to-child ratio requirements, and state government fundingfacilities to alevel that ensures thesecosts are not incurredbythe families utilising the services.
An all-around improvement in the regulation of these services to raise and maintain the safety standard, via more frequent and stringent compliance checks andharsher consequencesfor those who do not meet the requirement, is also planned to tackle the issue.
Much of this came afterhorrific allegations of childabuse by Joshua Dale Brown, during his time working across multiple Victorian childcare centres between August 2024 and February 2025.
While this was undoubtedly on everyone's mind during the council meeting, Cr Morganstated that these sorts of concerns have been circulating for "thepast few years", citing "a steady stream of allegations".
The allegations against Brownare notunlike those of David Neil Tuck, who faced 10 charges
against youth in childcare in New South Wales in the 1990s.
All Latrobe City councillors agreed with Cr Morgan and her sentiment that "this needs to be the bar", protecting the "most vulnerable members of our society".
Cr Morgan also pushedfor the statefunding put into enforcing the raisedrequirements of educatorto-child be managed by the implementation of more council-run childcare:
"Non-profit and publicly provided childcare, especially council-run childcare, is the best -this is apopular opinion," she said.
"We all know the Victoriangovernment is capable of this."
Cr Morgan proposed the motion be taken to the Municipal Victorian state council meeting, which was carried unanimously.
Jeeralang Ward Councillor, Joanne Campbell spokeupwith arhetorical question, asking her colleagues why things had to get "this bad"for these changes to be made.
Moe Ward's Adele Pugsley applauded Cr Morgan on her motion,bringing the perspective of aparent.
"I know what it's like having to leave your child in care whileyou go to work, parentsdon't have anyother viable option," she said.
Cr Gibson rounded it all off with asimplified view of why the motion is needed: "the checks and balances are not there."
Federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare and the Attorney-General, Michelle Rowland have both pushed for the coordination of anational WWCC system.
No newMorwell childcarecentre
WHILE council made clear its commitmentto improving childcare standards across the country, it also drew afirm linelocally, unanimously rejecting aproposal for anew childcare centre in Morwell.
Councillors andLatrobe Cityresidents alike deemedthe proposedcentre unsafe and poorly located.
Public speakers James Mins andSuzanne Dowl voiced theirstrongobjections to the proposed development at 3Hourigan Road, Morwell, citing significant safety concerns and improper planning of acommercial property in apurely residentialarea.
"This section of the road is like aspeedway,"Mr Mins told council, offering his perspective as abus driverwitnessing frequent hooning and reckless driving.
Mr Mins argued that the carpark spaces allocated to the centre within the proposal would not meet the numbers. Mr Mins also said parents would then assume the curbside parking for drop-off/pickup, which would be unsafe and could see children collected by avehicle.
"We see it time and time again in places like Mid Valley," he said,"themum or dad willbefixing the car seat while the child wanders."
"You support this proposal, and an accident will happen -sooner rather than later."
Cr Pugsley argued that"thereisnoshortage of commercial property or space (inLatrobe) we can develop. There is no doubt we need more and more quality childcare, but where it's proposed is not appropriate."
Tyers Ward Cr Darren Howe made it clear that council hasno'beef' with what'sbeingproposed, "we've approved two in Traralgon recently that tick all the boxes", but the situattion in which the development is proposed erked him, stating "they need to go back to the drawing board."
The subject site was zoned General Residential, and while it is possible to develop commercial properties in these zones,and achildcare centre is arguably one of the more likely types of businessestobeapprovedassuch,council deemed it appropriate to do so on the following grounds:
Commercial development not being appropriate in aresidential zone;
Increased traffic impacts, particularly congestion, safety concerns, increased demand for on-street parking, and impediment to the bus service stopping outside the subject site;
Amenity impacts, including noise, and overlooking;
Loss of adwelling and nativetrees, and;
Loss of neighbourhood character.
One of the major points raised, relating to Mr Mins argument, was by Cr Gibson, who cited the proposals specifics of 16 car park spaces for what is acentre offering up to 90 enrolments, and under the current childcare regulations would require agreater amount of staff than there are carpark spaces, let alone parking for clients.
“There are 90 places proposed, and only 16 car parks. Where are you supposed to drop-off and pick up? I’m not going to put my name to something that could pose arisk to achild," she said.
Currentl y, under the Chi ldren' sS ervice s Regulations, the minimum requirements are:
Birth to under 36 months (infants and toddlers): one educator to every four children;
36 months up to preschool age: one educator to every 11 children, and;
Over preschool age: one educator to every 15 children.
This would require around 14-17 educator staff in atypical 'even-split' scenario, or apractical maximum of 35 if all 90 children were under three-years-of-age.
Therewas no argumentfromany councillorin favour of the development, with Boola Boola Ward's David Barnes putting it bluntly, "Who the hell would want to live next to it?"
Music to campus ears
ST Paul’s Anglican Grammar School secondary students filled the school’s gym with song and energy at this year’s house music competition -an annual highlight on the school calendar. Each house performed as awhole group and also presented asmall group act, showcasing remarkable talent and enthusiasm.
Chisholm House took out the whole group category with aspiritedperformancethat had the crowd cheering, while Paterson House impressed the judges to win the small group section. Morethan justacontest, the housemusic competition is an important pastoral care activity, with students rehearsing within their houses for weeks leadinguptothe performance,fosteringconnection, creativity andjoy -all of which contribute to student health and happiness.
The event was acelebration of musical skill, teamwork and thestrong sense of housecamaraderie that makes the competition afavourite among students.
Combined concertfor the Valley
KURNAI College has again partnered with Monash University to present the 'Music for the Valley' concert.
This specialcombinedevent willshowcase the talents of the Monash Medical Orchestra and theMonash Medical Jazz Ensemble, bringing music of the highest calibre to the Latrobe Valley. Ahighlight of theschool's musical calendar, thisconcert provides Kurnai students,staff,and alumni with afantastic opportunity to perform alongside experienced musicians. Under the direction of maestro, Robert Dora, the evening will open with avibrant orchestral program
featuring selections from Bernstein’s West Side Story throughtofilmfavouritessuchasCaptain America.
The JazzEnsemble, led by JoshuaChong,will then enchant audiences with the beautiful ballad Summer Wind before lifting the energy with Gordon Goodwin’s lively arrangement of Don’t Steal My Stuff.
This exciting performance will take place this Saturday (September 20), at the Federation University Churchill Campus Auditorium.
For tickets, see: https://shop.mumus.org/mmo/3qz87/
Cult classic: GilmoreHouse performs theirrendition of Cotton EyeJoe by Rednex
Tune: Lalor House’s Harr yand Will (right) perform forthe house’s smallgroup performance
Rock n’ roll all night: Franklin Houseperforming their rendition of aKISS song
Duo: Paterson House’s small group actfeaturing Noahand Cooper Photographs supplied
Choice: ChisholmHouse performed Shut Up andDance With Me by Walk The Moon.
Right now, overme: MonashHouse’s Harr yandAston performing in thesmall group actto The Beatles song,Come Together
Chairo students produce five star concert performance
CHAIRO Christian School, Traralgon's school community was treated to aspectacular evening of colour, creativityand contagious energy as students from Prep to Year 8took to the stage to perform Madagascar Jnr
The success of the night was aresult of months of hard work by the students in learning lines, songs and dances.
Parents, family, friends and invited guests were treated to anight of colour, creative costumes, laughter and singing.
Thisnight would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Chairo staff who, over the last few months, have spent many hours
coordinating rehearsals, making costumes, back drops and learning the songs and dance moves with the students.
The school also extends heartfelt thanks to volunteers for their help behind the scenes, and parents for encouraging and helping their children practise their parts at home.
Most importantly, the school wants to celebrate its students.Their enthusiasm, persistenceand energy brought Madagascar Jnr to lifeinthe most delightful way, and they should be incredibly proud of what they achieved.
Bravo to eve ryone invol ved in making Madagascar Jnr such aroaring success!
whole
MIRBOO North Secondary Collegecelebrated
'Wear it Purple Day' in support of the LGBTQIA+ community.
The initiative was student-led by the Voiceof Students group.These students applytobeonthis grouptoprovidefeedback, ideas and lead opportunities and experiences to support the students at the school.
Wear it Purple Day is an annual event held in late August to promote safeand inclusive environments.
level
Students were invited to wear purple or other bright colours as the school uniform is purple and black.
Students participated in many great activities at lunchtime led by the Voice of Students leaders and staff, including schoolnurse Emma. Activities included face painting, nail polish, haircolours, enjoying different foods and music chosen by the students, and many great displays of rainbow flags and banners.
THURSDAY18SEPTEMBER
Trip: On the waytoMadagascar Photographs supplied
Scene: Meetingthe lemurs.
Just smileand wave: Ever yone’s favourite, the Madagascar Penguins.
Stars: ChairoChristian School’sproduction of Madagascar Jnrwas aroaring success
Range: Themerch tableoffered an arrayofitems Photographs supplied Mirboo North takes school colours to
new
Spirit: Alicehelping Sophie add some hair colour.
Support: Connor having face love hear ts painted.
HOROSCOPES
by JoanneMadeline Moore
September 15 -September 21 ,2025
relationship or Neptune confuses a personal partnership Life will be easier if you communicate clearly and accept personal responsibilities with a smile Your motto is from movie star (and birthday great) Sophia Loren: “Always be surrounded by people that you like ”
Are you stuck in a rut? Uranus shakes up your comfort zone which could make you feel confused and uncomfortable! Try to view any upset constructively, as it forces you to view a current situation from a totally different perspective And you may find a financial matter or a domestic project requires much more planning than you originally thought Thats OK Concentrate on enjoying the long and winding journey rather than just focusing on the destination
From Monday to Thursday, you could feel doubtful or disappointed as Saturn and Neptune dull motivation and confuse communication Then your confidence starts to return, as Fridays Mercury/Uranus and Mercury/ Pluto trines boost innovative thinking and creative ideas Personal projects holidays and friendships are also highlighted Your motto comes from movie icon (and birthday great) Lauren Bacall: Imagination is the highest kite one can fly ”
Its going to be a confusing week so try to keep your Crab cool Avoid spreading unsubstantiated gossip and blurting out things that you’ll later regret Take the time to check the facts thoroughly The more discreet and diplomatic you are the better the week will be but its definitely a delicate balancing act If you are too obliging and say yes to everyone and everything, then you’ll be overwhelmed and find you ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew!
The week leads up to the Sun/Saturn square on Sunday so motivation will be low and impatience high And the more you try to assert your authority and independence, the more stressful and frustrating things will be Just remember – you can t be the boss all of the time Calm down and recalibrate Lions! If you are more consultative then the week will run more smoothly Tuesday is the best day to catch up with like-minded folk in your local community
Friday looks lively, as the Mercury/Uranus/Pluto links propel you into an exciting new world of possibilities You re pursuing a challenging personal project with extra creativity, passion and purpose, but a partnership or friendship requires more clarity Avoiding complex issues won t make them magically disappear so its important to communicate your intentions clearly Especially when it comes to a romantic relationship or a joint venture
The overall message is patience as the Sun and Venus visit your solitude zone Rest relaxation reflection and rejuvenation are just what the doctor ordered If you look to the future with a positive attitude, then fabulous opportunities will manifest – eventually With Mars and Mercury in your sign you must stand up for what you believe in Be inspired by actress Jada Pinkett Smith (who turns 54 on Thursday): “Don’t allow anyone to dictate who you are ”
With Mars hibernating in your seclusion zone, do you feel as if you re going nowhere? The stars are testing your stamina and patience, so don t give up Fridays Mercury/Pluto trine helps you tap into your bountiful reserves of inner strength as you pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and set a new course (especially involving home and family) Your motto is from birthday great Leonard Cohen: “There is a crack in everything, thats how the light gets in
Most Archers are adventurous, free-wheeling folk But life will be a bit more restrictive this week (especially at home and/or work) as disciplined Saturn opposes Mercury and the Sun So smart Sagittarians will think before they speak, and plan before they act! Tuesday is the most social day of the week, as you visit a friend or catch up with your extended peer group And then Friday favours innovative joint ventures and local community connections
Tuesday’s Venus/Mars vibes favour researching a topic that has always fascinated you and socialising with work colleagues On Wednesday and Thursday, Saturn (your ruling planet) opposes Mercury, and then on Saturday Saturn opposes the Sun So you’re in for a challenging time and extra responsibilities especially involving family, education, travel and/or communication Clever Capricorns will roll up their sleeves, put their heads down and get to work
This week Saturn puts stress on financial matters, so it’s not a good time to borrow funds, invest, go on a shopping spree or lend money to others You’re liable to make financial decisions based on your emotions which are fluctuating wildly Especially on the weekend, when the Venus/Uranus square boosts your tempestuous side and you do something surprising involving marriage family or friendships Whatever happens expect the unexpected!
An unreliable friend or a questionable acquaintance could lead you astray so keep your realism radar set on high and avoid getting caught up in dubious schemes (especially involving finances) Only accept the advice of people who you know well and can really trust Venus visits your relationship zone from Friday until October 13 Attached Fish – find special ways to romance your sweetheart Singles – look for love with a versatile Virgo or a caring Cancer
Hickox St, Traralgon
FRANK George Hickox (George) was born in Middlesex, England in 1837.
The family arrived in South Australia in 1840 on the ship Holy Anna. In the mid-1840s his parents established acordial business in Adelaide. George came to Victoriain1852onthe ship Queen of Sheba. In 1855 he started acordial business at Shady Creek Diggings.
In 1865 he went to Walhalla and commenced hotel keeping where he remained for some time.
George married Ellen Kennedy at Walhalla in 1866.They had four children born in Walhalla (George Alfred Edward; 1867, Mary Aurora; 1870, Ellen; 1872 and William; 1874) before moving to Traralgon where the family grew by another two children (CharlesHenry; 1876, and Eliza Ann; 1879).
After moving to Traralgon he bought land and built several shops, cottagesand the Starand Club hotels.
In 1875 George boughtalarge brick yard of 28 acres whichwas in poor condition with only one small kiln (now the site of Duncan Cameron Oval, Traralgon).Hesold18acres of thisland for £1200 and built his own brickworks, making aviable business. Traralgon Bricks were not to be surpassed in the colony. They were in great demand, and being dark clay enableduse in facades and fancy brickwork. The Traralgon Post Office andcourthouse were built fromthese bricks, as were many of the principal buildings of the district at that time.
Mr Hickox employed about 20 people at the brickworks, earningabout £30per month. He also
had property at Tinamba (another hotel). He was alarge landowner in several parts of Gippsland includingseveral allotments in Morwell. George advertised his bricks as 'Bricks- 25 bob athousand and the best-looking man in Gippsland'. George was communityminded. He was aguardian for St James Church of England; atrustee of the Traralgon Cemetery Trust and influencedthe siting of the mechanics institute. He was on the committee for many organisations including the progress association, coal prospecting association, band and the agricultural society.
George’s busy life as abusinessman and serving on committees of community organisations did not deterhim from sporting and other pursuits. He was an accomplished player of the concertina, playing at local events and amember of the rifle club. His children inherited his musical talent. Mary played the piano and organ. She was also sought out for her singingprowess. George’s sonsalso performed on the stage and the sporting arenas. William was a very successful professional cyclist and actor, as well as acricketer,together with Charles.
By the mid-1890sGeorge and his family had relocated to WesternAustralia. George went to Laverton WA in 1896. (Gold had been discovered there that same year). His death is reported in the Laverton and Beria Mercury (Laverton, WA) on Saturday,November 29, 1913 “died at that place (Green Hills) last Sunday week(16th)” he was 74-years-old.
COPYRIGHTJoanne Madeline Moore 2025
OLD Gippstown continues to preserve Gippsland’s historywhile preparingfor abusy calendarof community events ahead.
Recently, the heritage park worked on refurbishing the old historic bank, which was the Meeniyan National Bank of Australasia (built in 1914). Its original pressed tin ceilings and upper walls have been cleaned, treated for mould, and repainted.
Donated to Old Gippstown in 1969bythe National Bank, the building came with original banking furniture and items.Aspart of the works, Heritage Buildings and Collections volunteers also took the opportunity to audit and further catalogue artefacts on display.
In other news, donations collected to the grounds now include three vintage ice box chests,Yallourn hospital cupboards, photographs of the Yallourn township,aset of First Readerbooks, a1920s wheelchair, early road maps of Victoria, and many other interesting and historically significant artefacts.
Donations are catalogued, photographed and put on display in Old Gippstown's collections or archived, thus ensuring these items are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
From the groundstothe kitchen, Old Gippstown is happy to share that the Old Gippstown Cafe is set to reopen under new operations.
For more information, go to: https://www. oldgippstown.com.au/ or visit the Old Gippstown Facebook page.
Watering hole: TheClub Hotel, Traralgoncirca 1889 when Crichton wasthe licensee.George Hickoxowned boththe Star and Club hotels aftermoving to Traralgoninthe 19th century. Photograph supplied
TheGuide
PICK OF THE WEEK
PROFESSOR T
ABC TV,Friday, 8.30pm
MYSTERYROAD: ABC TVV, Sunday,
:ORIGIN 8 15pm
Mark k Coles Smith has put masterful spin on the role of Jay Swan since taking over fr Pedersen who origginated th in the 2013 film MysteryRoa subsequent spin-offffs With a Award for Best Lead Actor a nomination in thhe bag for Coles Smith reeturns t the steely y copp’s ba the seecoond seas caaptivatinng pre Set siix month deebut innstalm Easter in the it follows Sw partner Ma Narkle) as to the tim of Loch I a missin the sus of an e promp Swan
Wednesday, September 17
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
WanKantri: PNG –The Next 50 Years. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club Address 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R)
t his own Detective rom Aaron e character adand its an AACTA nd Gold Logie r his efforts o flesh out ack story in son of this equel series hs after the ment during e year 2000 wan and his ary (Tuuli s they relocate mber town Iris where ng child and picious death lderly nun ptly demand s attention
Tal Mark C
Detec
lk of thetown: Coles Smithas ctiveJay Swan
Audiencesare usedtoseeing Ben Miller (pictured) in eccentric and quirky roles, such as DI Richard Poole in the much-loved DeathInParadise and as problematic author Julian in the ABC sitcom Austin.Soithas been refreshing to seethe seasoned performer ventureintodarker territoryasthe brilliant yetcomplexcriminologistProfessor JasperTempest in this classycrime drama. In Friday’sseason one finale “The Dutiful Child”, someonetries to knock off abillionairebusinessman as he delivers aspeech. When ProfessorT is called in to investigate, he soon links the attempted assassination to asimmeringfamilyfeud. Meanwhile, Professor T’sbirthday arrives, sparking ahaunting childhood memory.
PARAMEDICS
Nine, Tuesday, 8.40pm
SEVEN (7,6)
JOE LYCETT’SUNITED STATES OF BIRMINGHAM
SBS Viceland, Monday, 8 30pm
A proud resident of Birmingham or “Brum”asit’s affectionately known charming comedian and activist Joe Lycett (pictured) couldn’thelp but notice that his hometown wasn’t the only one with its name In an efforttoput England’s second city back on the map, Lycett gets the blessing of the actual Lord Mayor of Birmingham to embark on an odyssey that attempts to unite the West Midlands metropolis with its 18 North American namesakes.
From New Jersey to Saskatchewan and into the Deep South, Lycett delves into the cultureand history of each Birmingham,aiming to get each to sign a formal“friendship agreement” It all begins tonight on the East Coast of the United States.
NINE (9,8) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Four Corners.(R) 10.55
1.55 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 2.50 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.20 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 4.55 Antiques Roadshow.(R) 5.55 Spicks AndSpecks. (PG, R) 6am Morning Programs. 9.10 Great LighthousesOfIreland. (R) 10.10 North Sea Wonders: ACoastal Journey. (Premiere) 11.10 Susan Calman’sGrand Week By The Sea.(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 SBS50.(R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.45 The Cook Up.(R) 4.15 My Grandparents’ War. (PG, 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 My KitchenRules (PGal,R) 2.40 Motorbike Cops. (PGl, R) 3.00 TheChase. Hosted by Bradley Walsh. 4.00 SevenNews At 4. 5.00 TheChaseAustralia. HostedbyLarryEmdur
6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABCNews.
7.30 7.30
8.00 Hard Quiz. (PGs) 8.30 Shaun Micallef’sEve Of Destruction. (Final, PGl) Hosted by Shaun Micallef 9.10 Would ILie To You? (PG,R) HostedbyRob Brydon. 9.40 Austin. (Final, PG, R) 10.10 ABC LateNews.
10.25 TheBusiness. (R)
10.40 Planet America. (R) 11.10 YouCan’t Ask That. (Mas, R) 11.45 Grand Designs.(R) 12.30 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 1.20 Rage (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG,R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30.(R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 James May: Our Man In India. (PG) 8.30 DNA Journey: James Nesbitt And Sarah Parish. (PGa)James Nesbitt and SarahParish delveinto their family histories.
9.30 Code Of Silence. (MA15+)
10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 COBRA (Malv) 11.40 Vigil. (Malv,R) 1.45 The World’s MostScenic Railway Journeys. (R) 2.35 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 3.40 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (PG, R) 4.10 JSchwanke’sLifeIn Bloom. (R) 4.40 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World EnglishNewsMorning. 5.30 ANCPhilippines The World Tonight.
6.00 SevenNews.
7.00 HomeAnd Away (PGa) John gets to work.
7.30 The1%ClubUK. (PGal) Hosted by LeeMack.
8.30 TheFront Bar (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloyand AndyMaher takea lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered (PGa)Hamish McLachlan sits down with AFLBrisbane Lions premiershipcoach Chris Fagan.
7.30 TheBlock (PGl) The teams prepare forinspections.
8.45 Athletics. World Championships. Day 5. From NationalStadium, Tokyo, Japan.
11.30 TheFirst48: Life Interrupted/Lucifer (Mav, R)
12.30 TippingPoint. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 GlobalShop (R) 3.00 TV Shop: HomeShopping (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 HeyDuggee. 6.50 BenAnd Holly 7.00 Supertato 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.15 The Mysterious Benedict Society (Final) 10.05 Merlin. 10.50 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am MorningPrograms.
ARiver Runs Through It. (1992,
1pm
(2022, Mdls) 3.10 Manganinnie.(1980,PGa) 4.50 WhereIsAnne Frank. (2021, PGadlsv) 6.40 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990,PGalnsv) 8.30 OBrother,Where Art Thou? (2000,Mv) 10.30 Juliet, Naked. (2018,Ml) 12.20am Black ’47. (2018, MA15+v) 2.10 The WorstOnes. (2022, Malsv, French) 4.00 The Movie Show. 5.00 Manganinnie (1980,PGa)
Firstresponderssuchasthe braveparamedics featured in this gripping docuseries play avital role in our community,effortlessly navigating life-or-death situations with their expertknowledge and calm demeanour.These dedicated medical professionalsoften work in dangerous anddemanding environments to provide critical prehospital care forthose in desperate need. In tonight’sinstalment,after a heroic bystander uses CPR to bring agrandmother back from the dead, intensivecarespecialistBill arrives to stabilise the distressed woman beforeshe slipsbackinto fatal cardiac arrest. Elsewhere, his colleagues Sally (pictured) and Olivia carefully examine achurchgoer who has whacked her head on apew
TEN (10, 5)
Thursday, September 18
ABC (2)
6am Mor ning Programs. 10.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 11.00 Shaun Micallef s Eve Of Destruction. (Final, PGl, R) 11.40 If YoureListening. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Malv,R) 2.00 Grand Designs Aust. (PG, R) 2.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow.(PG, R)
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
(PG) Acouple build ahouse in Waikanae.
9.15 The Family Next Door. (Final, Ml, R) Isabelle unravels the truth.
10.10 ABC Late News.
10.25 The Business. (R) 10.40 Grand Designs. (R) 11.30 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 12.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Childrens Programs. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.20 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.45 The Mysterious Benedict Society 10.40 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1.45pm First Sounds. 2.00 Island Echoes. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 YarningCulture Through Film. 5.30 Te Ao With Moana. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Arctic Secrets. 7.29 NITV Weather 7.30 Going Places. 8.30 Tribal. 9.20 MOVIE: Million Dollar Baby (2004, M) 11.35 Late Programs. NITV (34)
6am Mor ning Programs. 11.10 Susan CalmansGrand Week By The Sea. (R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Ticketyboo. 3.30 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 My Grandparents War. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by MarcFennell.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 9/11: One Day In America: The South Tower People in the south tower watch the north tower bur n.
9.25 Snowpiercer (MA15+v) Layton leads the lower classes in armed rebellion. Melanies casualty in the battle for control.
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Dopesick. (MA15+ads, R) 11.55 Blue Lights. (Madlv,R)
2.10 HughsWild West. (PGa, R)
3.20 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (R) 4.20 JSchwankesLife In Bloom. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Mor ning Show.(PG)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away (PGs) Edensgot work to do.
8.30 ClarksonsWho Wants To Be AMillionaireUK. (PG) Contestants compete for atop prize of £1 million. Hosted by Jeremy Clarkson.
9.30 Why Bridges Collapse. (PG) Investigators examine the collision of acontainer ship into the Key Bridge in Baltimorein2024.
10.45 What The Killer Did Next: Peter McMahon. (Mav,R) Hosted by Philip Glenister
11.45 Kick Ons.
12.15 Life. (Malsv,R) 1.15 Travel Oz. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair
7.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 6. From National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan. 11.30 Chicago Med. (MA15+am) Halloween chaos takes over the ED. Asher helps apregnant woman with an autistic
SBS VICELAND (31)
WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Addicted Australia. 1.40 Making AKilling: Triads, Cartels And The New Business Of Drugs. 2.30 Insight. 3.30 News. 3.35 WorldWatch 5.35 Over The Black Dot. 6.05 Jeopardy! 7.00 Athletics. World Championships. Day 6. Evening session. 11.30 Late Programs.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 8.30 The Legend Of Longwood. (2014, PGa) 10.20 On The Basis Of Sex. (2018, Ml) 12.30pm Juliet, Naked. (2018, Ml) 2.20 ARiver Runs Through It. (1992, PGaln) 4.35 Hail, Caesar! (2016, PGal) 6.40 RBG. (2018, PG) 8.30 ASerious Man. (2009, Mdlsv) 10.35 While WereYoung. (2014, Mdl) 12.25am Late Programs.
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
6.30 HardQuiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson plants for buzz pollinators.
8.30 Professor T. (Final, Mav) When an attempt is made on a billionaireslife, Professor T comes up with asuspect.
12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
Australias Lightest Scooter
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles. (Ml, R) 8.25 Dictator: The Hitler Interviews. (M) Looks at those who were at Hitlersside during the war 9.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt: The Legend Of Cleopatra. (PGav) 10.15 SBS WorldNewsLate. 10.45 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. Evening session. 11.20 Catch Me AKiller.(MA15+a) 12.15 Pray For Blood. (MA15+av,R) 2.05 HughsWild West. (R) 3.10 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (R) 4.10 JSchwankesLife In Bloom. (R) 4.40 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. First
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking alook back at all the action from the game. 11.15 GetOn Extra. Lizzie Jelfs, Matt Hill, Simon Marshall and Brent Zerafa dive headlong into the weekendsbestracing. 11.45 To Be Advised.
1.15 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv,R)The Clios family arequestioned by police.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
5.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
6.00 9News.
7.00 ACurrent Affair
7.30 To Be Advised. 10.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. From National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan.
11.30 Transplant. (MA15+m, R) Bash and Mags team up to save aJohn and Jane Doe found in the woods. Jane sees her old mentor in anew light.
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo.
Saturday, September 20
ABC (2) SBS (3)
6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. (PG, R) 1.25 Professor T. (Final, Mav R) 2.15 I, Jack Wright. (Ml, R) 3.00 The Larkins. (PG, R) 3.45 Julia Zemiros Home Delivery.(PG, R) 4.30 Would ILie To You? (PG, R) 5.00 Take 5With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 5.30 Landline. (R)
6.00 Australian Story: All Consuming
Kate Reid. (R) Looks at Kate Reid.
6.30 Back Roads: Gippsland Lakes, Victoria. (R) Lisa Millar heads to VictoriasGippsland Lakes.
7.00 ABC News. Alook at the top stories of the day
7.30 Beyond Paradise. (PGa, R) An arsonist targets three businesses.
8.30 Midsomer Murders.
(Final, Mav,R)DCI John Bar naby and DS Winter investigate when abody is found surrounded by ritual symbols.
10.00 The Family Next Door (Final, Ml, R) Isabelle unravels the truth.
10.55 I, Jack Wright
(MA15+l, R) Sallyslegal challenge runs into trouble. 11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Childrens 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 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.40 Chopped Junior 9.20 Fresh OffThe Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary 10.25 Late Programs.
NITV (34)
6am Morning Programs. 12.05pm Carpool Koorioke. 12.15 Ella. 1.45 Arctic Secrets. 2.35 Nula. 3.05 One Mind, One Heart. 4.30 OffCountry 5.00 Hunting Aotearoa. 6.00 Amplify 6.30 News. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: The Witches Of Eastwick. (1987, M) 10.35 MOVIE: Mama Africa. (2011, PG) 12.15am Late Programs.
6am Mor ning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Sailing. SailGP Round 9. Highlights. 3.00 1998 FIFA World Cup: La Coupe De La Gloire. 4.35 Dylan Alcott: Peter Bol And Joseph Deng. (PG, R) 5.00
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Swiss Alpine Rail Jour neys: The Tenacious Davoser Railways.
8.30 ARoyal Residence: Glamis Castle. (Premiere, PG) Looks at Glamis Castle, the Scottish childhood home of the Queen Mother and beloved playground for her daughter, the futureQueen, which is one of the oldest royal residences in Britain.
9.25 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Puglia. (R) Stanley Tucci visits Puglia.
10.15 Great Australian Walks. (PG, R)
11.10 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R) 2.30 Secret Nazi Bases. (PGa, R) 4.10 JSchwankesLife In Bloom. (R) 4.40 Bamay.(R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31)
6am
WorldWatch. 8.10 Fashionista. 8.20 Athletics. World Cships. Morning. 1.30pm WorldWatch. 3.05 Bamay 3.25 News. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.30 Signs For Change. 6.40 Athletics. World Championships. Day 8. Evening session. 11.30 Australia Come Fly With Me. 12.30am Late Programs.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 10.05 ASerious Man. (2009, Mdlsv) 12.10pm Into The Darkness. (2020, Masv,Danish, Swedish, German) 2.55 The Movie Show 3.30 RBG. (2018, PG) 5.20 The Great Escape. (1963, PGv) 8.30 Arsenal. (2017, MA15+adlv) 10.15 Nymphomaniac: Vol. II. (2013, MA15+alnsvw) 12.30am Late Programs.
8.00 Seven News. 9.00 MOVIE: Free Guy (2021, Mlv,R)
After abank teller discovers that he is actually anon-playable character inside abrutal, open world video game, he begins to display an unexpected level of self-awareness. Ryan Reynolds, Jodie Comer,Taika Waititi.
11.20 MOVIE: Back To TheFuture Part III. (1990, PGlv,R)Marty McFly travels back in time to the Old West to rescue his mad-scientist friend. Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Mary Steenburgen.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 ItsAcademic. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve. 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
7TWO (72, 62)
6am Morning
6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL.
9.45 NRL Finals Post-Match. Apost-match NRL wrap-up analysis and player interviews. 10.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 8. 11.30 Law &Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av,R)Pearl falls mysteriously ill.
12.30 AustraliasTop Ten Of Everything. (PG, 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)
Programs. 12.30pm Better Homes. 2.00 The YorkshireVet. 3.00 WorldsMost Scenic Railway Jour neys. 4.00 Horse Racing. Underwood Stakes. 5.30 Animal Rescue. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 The YorkshireVet. 8.30 Escape To The Country 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 8.00 Innovation Nation. 8.20 Athletics. World Championships. Day 8. 1.30pm My Favorite Martian. 2.00 TBA. 2.30 MOVIE: Taras Bulba. (1962, PG) 5.00 MOVIE: What Did YouDoInThe War, Daddy? (1966, PG) 7.30 To Be Advised. 8.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 8. 10.30 TBA. 1am Late Programs.
5.50 MOVIE: Space Jam. (1996) 7.30 MOVIE: Turner &Hooch. (1989, PG) 9.35 MOVIE: Sully.(2016, M) 11.35 MOVIE: The Lonely Spirits Variety Hour.(2022, M) 1.15am Seinfeld. 1.45 Late Programs. 6am Mor ning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld.
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.40 Selling Houses Australia. After caring for an ill parent in their home, acouple look for anew start, while also battling abuilder 8.40 Ambulance Australia. (Maln, R) Acrash
Sunday,September 21
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
SEVEN (7,6)
NINE (9,8) 6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week.(R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 David AttenboroughsKingdom Of Plants. (R) 3.35 Grand Designs NZ. (PG, R) 4.25 Bill BaileysWild West Australia. (PG, R) 5.10 Antiques Roadshow
6.10 BritainsGreat Cathedrals. (Final)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Assembly: Richard Roxburgh. (Retur n, PG) The students interview RichardRoxburgh.
8.15 Mystery Road: Origin. (Retur n, Mal) Jayshopes of a new beginning areshattered.
9.10 I, Jack Wright (Mal)Asthe court case draws near,a dramatic revelation threatens everything Sally holds dear 9.55 Whiteley (Mals, R) Alook at the life of artist Brett Whiteley 11.25 AnhsBrush With Fame. (Ml, R) 11.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.00 Ask The Doctor.(R) 3.30 The Art Of... (Ml, R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Mor ning Programs. 12.00 APAC Weekly 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Gymnastics. FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Challenge Cup. Highlights. 4.00 Seven 7Seven. (PGl) 4.30 Going Places. (PG, R) 5.30 WW2 End Game. (PG)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Princes In The Tower: A Damning Discovery (PG) Looks at the mystery of two princes.
8.50 Queens Of Combat. (Premiere, PG) An inter national team uncovers evidence to restorethe female gladiators of ancient Rome to their rightful place in history
9.55 Black Gold. (Ml, R) Documents the climate crisis cover-up.
11.30 Stolen: Catching The Art Thieves: Oslo. (Ma, R) 2.50 Secret Nazi Bases. (PGa, R) 4.30 Bamay (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Childrens 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 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 MOVIE: BillionaireBoy.(2016) 8.40 Fresh OffThe Boat. 9.20 Abbott Elementary 10.05 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.
session. 11.50 Late Programs.
6.00 NBC Today 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Mor ning Show.(PG) 12.00 Behind Behani. (PGal, R) 12.30 JabbasMovies School Holiday Special. (PGav,R) 1.00 Football. AFL Womens. Round 6. Melbour ne vWest Coast. 3.00 Football. AFL Womens. Round 6. St Kilda vRichmond. 5.00 News. 5.30 Border Security.(PG, R)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 The Voice. (PGl) Hosted by Sonia Kruger 8.40 7NEWS Spotlight. 9.40 24 Hours In PoliceCustody: The Kane Line. (MA15+ad, R) Follows apolice surveillance operation of agroup who arebelieved to be planning the importation of drugs. 10.40 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Predator LeonardJohnFraser. (MA15+av,R)
12.00 Miniseries: The Victim. (Malv,R) 1.15 Travel Oz. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News Sunday 7.00 The Block. (PGl) The teams arejudged on their guest suites.
8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 9. 10.30 Footy Fur nace. (Mlv) Alook at the latest roundofthe AFL. 11.30 9News Late.
The Gulf. (Madlsv,R)
Our State On APlate.
BelieversVoice Of Victory (PGa)
6am Morning Programs. 10.30 Escape To The Country 1.30pm Better Homes. 2.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.00 Your Money & Your Life. 3.30 WorldsMost Scenic Railway Jour neys. 4.30 Escape To The Country 7.30 8.30 Vera 10.30 The PembrokeshireMurders. 11.35 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 11.00
NITV (34)
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2.40pm Stable: The Boxing Game. 3.40 Bamay 4.00 The Coolbaroo Club. 5.00 Amplify 5.30 Winds Of Zenadth Cultural Festival. 6.30 News. 6.40 Yiyili. 6.50 Arctic Secrets. 7.40 Aerial Australia. 8.30 Stylebender 10.20 MOVIE: Mad Bastards. (2010, MA15+) Midnight Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1.05pm Into The White. (2012, Malv,Norwegian, English, German) 3.00 The Battle Of The River Plate. (1956, PGa) 5.10 Petite Maman. (2021, PGa, French) 6.35 Brief Encounter.(1974, PGa) 8.30 One Flew Over The CuckoosNest. (1975, MA15+l) 11.00 Late Programs.
TEN (10, 5)
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock andAmelia Brace. 7.00 The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition. (PGal) Hosted byBeauRyan. 8.30 Watson. (PGav) Ingridsliescome backtohaunt her when hersister needs to be treated bythe team after she develops side effects to the secret treatments Ingrid put her through. 9.30 FBI. (Mdv,R)The team hunts for those responsible when atruck driver is murdered and the drug he was transporting goes missing. 11.30 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.
Monday, September 22
ABC (2)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News
Mornings. 10.00 Teenage Boss: Next Level. (PG, R) 10.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mav,R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 AnhsBrush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow.(R)
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
6.30 HardQuiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Australian Story Australians tell personal stories.
8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program.
9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser
9.35 Planet America. Alook at American politics.
10.05 ABC Late News.
10.20 The Business. (R)
10.40 ALife In TenPictures. (PGa, R) 11.30 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 12.20 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 1.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Childrens
Programs. 6.20pm Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Contraption Masters. (Final) 9.20 The Crystal Maze. 10.10 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.
NITV (34)
6am Morning Programs. 2pm This Is Indian Country.(Premiere) 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 YarningCultureThrough Film. 5.30 The 77 Percent. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Arctic Secrets. 7.30 Who Do You Think YouAre? 8.30 Karla Grant Presents. 9.30 MOVIE: Last Cab ToDarwin. (2015, M) 11.40 Late Programs.
(3)
6am Morning Programs. 12.10 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News Weekend. 1.30 Al Jazeera News Hour 2.00 Australia Come Fly With Me. (PGa, R) 3.00 Garage Dreams. (PG) 3.30 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 My Grandparents War. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Robson GreensWeekend Escapes: Laura Norton. Laura Norton joins Robson Green for arelaxing break.
8.35 Portillo In The Pyrenees: ASpiritual Quest. (PGav,R) MichaelPortillo continues his Pyrenean challenge. 9.30 Into South America With Nick Knowles. (PGa, R) Nick Knowles visits Chile.
10.20 SBS World News Late. (Mlv)
11.40 Enemy Of The People. (Mlv,R)
3.05 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (R) 4.05 JSchwankesLife In Bloom. (R) 4.35 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHKWorld English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31)
6am Morning
Programs. 1.10pm MOVIE: 76 Days. (2020, M) 2.55 Wine Lovers Guide. 3.25 Historys Crazy Rich Ancients. 3.50 WorldWatch 5.45 TheFood That Built The World. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.25 News. 7.30 8Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 United States Of Birmingham. (Premiere) 9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. 10.10 Late Programs.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Boccaccio 70. (1962, Malns, German, Italian) 1.45pm Lunana: AYak In The Classroom. (2019, PGa, Dzongkha, English) 3.50 The Movie Show 4.25 Finding You. (2020, PGal) 6.40 Percy Vs Goliath. (2020, PGal) 8.30 The Man Who WasntThere.(2001, MA15+) 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show (PG) 12.00 SevensNational News At Noon. 1.00 ToBeAdvised. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away (PGa) Jo and Lacey join forces.
7.30 AFL Brownlow Medal: Red Carpet. (PG) Coverage of the redcarpet arrivals featuring AFL players and their partners.
8.00 AFL Brownlow Medal. An awards event featuring the announcement of the winner of the leaguesBrownlow Medal.
11.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R) Hosted by Lee Mack.
12.00 Hooten &The Lady (Mav) Alex manages to track Hooten down in Cambodia.
1.00 Travel Oz. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6am Morning
Programs. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today 10.30 Better Homes. Noon TBA. 2.00 Weekender 2.30 Great Rail Restorations. 3.30 HarrysPractice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Doc Martin. 8.30 Endeavour 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair
7.30 The Block. (PGl) The teams face spaces in the interior of their homes.
8.40 To Be Advised.
9.40 9News Late.
10.10 To Be Advised.
11.10 Murder In The Family: Jennifer Cronin. (MA15+al, R) Takes alook at the case of Jennifer Cronin.
12.00 100% Footy (M) Features the latest rugby league news.
1.00 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 BelieversVoice Of Victory (PGa)
4.30 ACurrent Affair (R)
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today
9GEM (92,81)
6am Morning
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer 7.30 The AmazingRace Australia: Celebrity Edition. (PGal) Hosted by Beau Ryan. 8.40 Have YouBeen Paying Attention? (Malns) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.40 Talkin Bout Your Gen. (PGls, R) Hosted by Anne Edmonds, with team captains Dave Hughes, Tommy Little and Anisa Nandaula. 10.40 10sLate News.
11.05 10 News+. (R)
12.05 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
Programs. 10.00 Rainbow Country 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon M*A*S*H. 2.00 DadsArmy. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow 3.30 MOVIE: Mr Denning Drives North. (1951, PG) 5.30 YorkshireAuction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 ShakespeareAnd Hathaway 10.40 Late Programs.
7TWO (72, 62) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Golden Girls. 2.30 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: Three Kings. (1999, MA15+) 10.50 Seinfeld. 11.50 Veronica Mars. 12.45am Pretty Little Liars. 1.40 Supernatural. 3.30 TomAnd Jerry 4.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. 3.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Supports. Porsche Carrera Cup. 4.00 Storage Wars: Best Buys. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Outback Crystal Hunters. 8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer 2. (2018, MA15+)
Don'tbe Puzzled
Tuesday,September 23
ABC TV (2)
SBS (3)
SEVEN (7,6)
NINE (9,8) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Australian Story.(R) 10.30 Planet America. (R) 11.15 BritainsGreat Cathedrals. (Final, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00
I, Jack Wright. (Mal, R) 1.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 Anhs Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow.(PG, R)
8.30 Take 5With Zan Rowe: Kevin Bacon. (PGl) Kevin
9.00 Freddie Mercury: The Final Act. (Ml, R) The story of Freddie 10.30 ABC Late News. 10.45 The Business. (R) 11.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.45 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.05 Whitlam: The Power And The Passion. (Final, PG, R) 1.05 Grand Designs. (R) 1.55 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 2.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 Parkinson In Australia. (PGs, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Overbooked. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Australia Come Fly With Me. (Mals, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Walking Wartime England. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great British Railway
8.30 Insight. Looks at baby making. 9.30 Dateline: The Cult Of Tradwives Pt 2. Investigates religious group Homestead Heritage. 10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 The Point. (R)
11.30 Screw.(Malv) 1.20 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (R) 3.20 J SchwankesLife In Bloom. (R) 3.50 Music Of The Brain. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Childrens Programs. 6.20pm Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 BTN Newsbreak. 8.35 Deadly 60. 9.05 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show (PG) 12.00 SevensNational News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away (PG)
7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
9.05 The Rookie. (Mav) Nune makes anew friend.Chen places her faith in Ridley for an undercover assignment.
10.05 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 11.05 Grosse Pointe Garden Society her relationship with Doug.
12.05 Pretty HardCases. (Madv)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
(34) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country 2.00 Creek To Coast. 2.30 Great Rail Restorations. 3.30 Harrys Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To TheCountry 6.30
8.40 Paramedics. (Mlm) Ahero bystander uses CPR to bring awoman back from thedead. (Ml) Footy experts tackle the AFLs big issues.
10.40 9News Late.
11.10 La Brea. (Mav,R) 12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Getaway (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 BelieversVoice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today 6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer
9GEM (92,81)
Morning Programs. 9.30
10.30
Direct. 10.00
11.30 My Favorite
7.30 Talkin Bout Your Gen. (Mls) Hosted by Anne Edmonds.
The Cheap Seats. (Mal) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take alook at the week that was.
Mornings. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Homicide. 2.20 Aussie Jokers. 2.50 The Mega-Brands That Built The World. 3.40 News. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 The Food That Built The World. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 8Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Alone. 9.40 Hoarders. (Return) 11.20 Calipari: RazorsEdge. 12.10am Late Programs.
M*A*S*H. 2.00 Shakespeare And Hathaway 3.00 Antiques Roadshow 3.30 MOVIE: ItsGreat To Be Young! (1956) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. (Return) 6.30 Antiques Roadshow 7.30 New Tricks. 8.40 Agatha Raisin. 10.40 Late Programs.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm This Is Indian Country 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Yarning CultureThrough Film. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay 6.30
6am Morning Programs. 12.55pm Purple Rain. (1984, Malsv) 3.00 The Movie Show 3.35 Petite Maman. (2021, PGa, French) 4.55 Lunana: AYak In The Classroom. (2019, PGa, Dzongkha, English) 6.55 Malcolm. (1986, PGlsv) 8.30 The Hudsucker Proxy (1994, PG) 10.35 The Nest. (2020, MA15+l) 12.40am Late Programs.
MOE Art Society has pulled out all the stops as it prepares for the annual Spring Art Exhibition.
This year's exhibition will run Friday, October 24 to Sunday, October 26 at Moe Library.
Membersare busy creating paintings in all mediums, and preparing them to be hung in whatpromises to be afantastic weekendofquality artworks, all by local artists.
At the group’s weekly get-together recently, member Ken Downs inspired fellow members with an informative demonstration of his watercolor technique.
Amagnificent artwork wasproduced and was followed by many questions and discussion.
This wasjustthe latest of the groups monthly information and demonstration sessions which members have enjoyed. Many more are planned for the future.
MoeArt Society is afriendly group that meets most weeks on aThursday at Moe Library from 9.30am until about 3.30pm.
Members bring along theirown painting and drawing equipment, and work at their own pace.
Any new, inexperiencedmembers can receive plenty of assistance and encouragementifitis requested.
Information about the society can be obtained by phoning Chris on 0423 976 620 or Sue (0412 459 031).
Seeking advocates for women’shealth
GIPPSLAND Women’s Health (GWH) is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from people who are suitable and willing to be considered for appointment to its Board of Directors.
Note that under the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 and the HumanRightsList Exemption #H472/2021
Gippsland Women's Health has been granted an exemption allowing recruitment of individuals who identify as women only.
GWH is anot-for-profitregionalorganisation working within afeminist and gender equal framework with avision for aGippsland where women and girls are safe, informed, well and healthy.
Its purposeistoworkacross communitiesinforming, influencing, and supporting positive change and improving opportunities for all women and girls in Gippsland. This is achieved through core work of communityeducation and training, capacity building, strategic partnerships, advocacy, and awareness-raisingcampaigns and initiatives.The team is based throughout Gippsland,and works to ensure equal access for all women.
Board directors are accountable for the overall performance of the organisation and provide advice and govern the direction of the organisation.
Boarddirectors work closely withthe chief
executive and do not provide any operational function.
Aboard role at GWH requires applicants to:
Have acommitment to promoting women’s health, wellbeing and safety;
Awillingness to work collaboratively with other board directors, and; Be curious and enquiring and have agenuine appetite for change, challenge and growth.
If you are interested in adiscussion or obtaining further information about the role and responsibilities of boarddirectors, email GWH chief executive, Kate Graham at: Kate.graham@gwhealth.asn.au
Knock on wood
VICTORIANS are able to collect firewood for domestic use as collection areas have reopen for Spring.
Firewood collection is onlyallowed from state forests during the firewood season from designated firewood collection areas.
Fore st Fire Mana gemen tV ic toria (FFMVic) Gippsland Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Sam Quigley encouraged people to get their wood now ready for winter 2026.
“Spring is an ideal time to collect your firewood,” he said.
“Depending on the type of vegetation and levelofdryness when cut, most wood takes longer than 12 months to dry.
“Ideally people should plan their firewood needs two years in advance.”
Mr Quigley urged Victorians reliant on firewood for heating and cooking to plan their needs early.
“Maps are now online, so it’s agood time to organise your collection,” he said.
“Ifyou are unable to collectfirewood for domestic use,you can nominate someone to collect firewood on your behalf.”
Mr Quigley said people could onlycollect alimitoftwo cubic metres perperson per day and amaximum of 16 cubic metres perhousehold per financial year.
“Most people do the right thing, collect wood that is already on the ground, take onlywhatthey needand sticktolimits and rules,” he said.
“For your own safety, please check the weather andconditionsbefore you go, always be aware of your surroundings and take care when using chainsaws.”
The Spring firewood collection season ends on Sunday, November 30.
Financial assistance is available for peopleonlow incomes who buy firewood. See: www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/energy-concession-and-support for more information.
Craft: MoeArt Societyguru, KenDowns with anotherone of his master pieces. Photograph supplied
Community Corner with Liam
Student artshow
THE Rotary Club of Moe and Moe Community Art Collective is proud to present astudent artshow this Saturday (September 20).
Show runs from 10am to 4pm at the HighStreetCommunity Hub (4 High Street, Moe). The cafe will be open to purchase coffees ,drinks and food.
The art showhas morethan 300 entries by school children from 11 schools in the 3825 district.
School children who participated in the show can enjoy asausage sizzle and drink supplied by Moe Rotary on opening day at 12 noon.
Classes for students are to be held each afternoon of the weekend by accomplished artistes. All enquiries to Peter McLaren on 0400 933 609.
Well-known Traralgon artist and teacher,Libby Witchell is judging the entries. Winners and runners-up from each school will be presented with a certificate.
Come alongand enjoy the show and support localschoolchildren’s artist talent.
Father's Dayraffle
TRARALGONCancerVolunteer Group raised morethan $700atits Father's Day -agreat effort.
Thankyou to BrentatAutoBarn, Traralgon for providing the prizes. The groupalso held aBunnings barbecue and raised more than $1300. Thank you to everyone who bought a sausage or two.
Next fundraising effort is the classic car collection at 32 McMahon St, Traralgon on Sunday, October19from 10am-2pm.
This will be the finalshowingofthe classic car collection owned by Ray and NanIkin, and will feature the Charger Club, Ford Capri Club,Valiant ‘R’ and ‘S’ Club. Entry is by donation. There will be abarbecue,sandwiches, salad rolls, slices, tea and coffee and cold drinksto purchase. Therewill be araffle and an auctionofdonated goods -catering will be provide by the TraralgonCancer Volunteer Group and all proceedswill go to cancer research.
For all enquires, phone 0419 524 671 or 0407 368 848.
Lime kiln
FRIENDS of Tyers Park and the Traralgon District Historical Society will inspect the lime kiln and limestone quarry in Tyers Parkon Saturday, September 27.
Meet at Tyers CommunityHall at 9.30am. Introductions will be held, and then carpool to the lime kiln site alongW3Track where attendeeswill inspect the site, try to imagine how the site appearedand theactivities happening in its heyday. The group will discussthe purpose of the site, the process of making quicklime and its applications.
It is expected the expedition will return to Tyers Hall by around 1pm in plenty of time for the AFL Grand Final.
Participants should bring some snacks, (lunch if they wish), water, a raincoat and sturdy footwear.
Non-members are more than welcome.
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.
Join the Facebook page: Latrobe Valley Spiritual Centre for updates.
Great Moe/Newb
citizens
LIONS Club of Moe are once again seeking nominations for the Moe/ NewboroughCitizens of the Year Award.
This award is presented annually on Australia Day at Heritage Park (Old Gippstown).
There are two categories -one for Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year for agesbetween12and 25 years, and Australia Day Citizenofthe Year
All nominations must either be aresident of the Moe/Newborough area or have contributed and demonstrated outstanding service to the Moe/Newborough community in a voluntary capacity.
Closing datefor nominations is October 31, 2025.
For any further information or for acopy of the nomination form, phone Lion Robert Sharrock on 0497 299 719 or email: maroby@bigpond.com
Field naturalists
BLUE-WINGED Parrot Project Neil and SueWoolley will give apresentation via Zoom on the 'Blue-winged Parrot project' at the next meeting of the Latrobe Valley Field Naturalists Club.
Meeting will take place on Friday, September 26 at Moe Libraryfrom 7.30pm.
This presentation will be followed by the club'smonthlymeeting and supper.
Neil and Sue of Birdlife Bass Coast are citizen-science volunteers on the Blue-winged Parrotgroup,working since 2022, to better understand the species in an effort to help conserve them.
Listed as vulnerable, this attractive small south eastern Australian parrot is olive-green, with yellow belly and mostly dark blue wings. It feedson the groundinopen areas, including sporting grounds and farmland. The call is avery high, thin, chiming "zit zit."
The presentation coversrecent volunteer activitiesand willprovide an updateabout the 2024/25breeding season,sites in Gippsland, and efforts to trialnest box designs.Orangebellied Parrots and Turquoise Parrots will also be discussed.
Join on Saturday,September 27 for an excursion to search for Victorianbreeding Blue-winged Parrots.
Meeting at 10am at Koonwarra Nature Conservation Reserve just off the South Gippsland Highway on Swan Road, first left, opposite the public toilets at the Rail Trail.
Everyone is most welcome, both to the meeting and the excursion.
For more information, phone secretary, Rose on 0410 237 292.
Visit:www.lvfieldnats.org to register if you wish to use Zoom to join the meeting and/or if you would like to come on the excursion.
Historyhub
TRARALGON District Historical Societyisinthe midst of avery busy September.
The societyvisitedRosedale HistoricalSocietylastSunday (September 14) to view their rooms and collection.
Today (Wednesday,September 17),the society will host'Walk in Wednesday' at the Traralgon CourtHousefrom10am-2pm. Displays of Victory Park's history will showcase
On Saturday,September 27,the Tyers Park group has invited members of the society to an excursion at the lime kiln.
The society's annual dinner will be heldTuesday, October 14 at the TraralgonBowls Club. Guestspeaker will be JennyHammett, who will talk on the life of Sarah Griggs, who was deported to Australia in 1790 as part of the Second Fleet.
If you wish to attend, phone the society on 0402 911 950.
Stamp it
NEXT meeting of the Latrobe Valley Stamp Club will be held Wednesday, September 24.
The daytime meeting commences 1.30pm at the Morwell RSL boardroom.
Here, attendees can review, exchange (circuit)books, chat with fellow enthusiasts and possiblypick up agreat find in the small auction The club will be puttingthe final touches on the annual stamp and coin fair as well.
The public, as well as collectors, are encouraged to come along on Saturday, October 18 (9am-3pm) and delight in all the fair has to offer: an ANZAC display, adisplay of people on stamps and covers and stamp,coin and accessories dealers.
Brilliant bridge
TRARALGON Bridge Club results:
Tuesday, September 9: N/S 1st Kaye Douglas and Roshni Chand 71.27 per cent; 2nd Rob Graham and Glenis Lohr (63.07). E/W 1st Geoff Dixon and John Marsiglio (60.6); 2nd Christine Zarb and Fred Kaminski (55.33). Thursday, September 11: N/S 1st Greg Nicholson and Kaye Douglas (60.42); 2nd Ken Tierneyand Richard Webster(56.6). E/W 1st Anne Moloney and John Marsiglio (58.63); 2nd Moira Hecker and Helen McAdam (55.95). If you would like to playorlearn more about bridge, phone Traralgon Bridge Club President, Helen McAdam on 0438 164 528.
Meditation
MOE Meditation Group practices qigong and yoga traditions.
Whether you are new to meditation or wish to extend your personal practice, the group providesasafeand comfortable environment in which to learn and practice.
Clubmembers willbeonhand to assist with valuations and advice. The fairwillbeheld in the Uniting Church Hall, Park Lane, Traralgon. Entry is by gold coin donation and light refreshments will be available.
Club members who attend the fair will be competing in a$10 stamp and coin challenge funded by the club.
For further information, phone Christine on 0427 770 522. Visitors are most welcome to attend andcollab.
End of lifeplanning
WE plan for all speciallife events: engagements,weddingsand births -yet we don't give consideration to our death.
Come along to the Moe Library on Thursday, September 25 from 6.30pm,wherediscussions will be had regarding the process of death (dying at home, body disposal options, what are the legal requirements and paperwork etc).
This is asafeand inclusive environment for all. Bring afriend, all your questions and curiosity.
For more information, call Glenda on 0409 529 588 or Ros (0400 999 315).
Or email: gippsdoula@yahoo.com
Chess classics
THE promising performances of new members, both Gary Hudson and Kyson Ward, highlighted the activities at Latrobe Valley Chess Club.And as for everyone else joining into this fascinating branch of knowledge, new doors were opening.
Steve Aherntook credit from all games played, claiming one win, a lossand alsomanaging to selvedge two draws from tricky positions.
One win wasenoughfor Peter Bakker, who struggled to reap the benefits available in most battles as in the first game with Ian Hamilton.
Showinghow to keep the options open, Samantha Juers continued the journey towardfurther discoveries available within the game of chess.
The reliable strategies helped Cliff Thornton to gain the most victories.
Entries are still openfor the approaching tournament. Phone Ian Hamilton on 0400 221 649 or Cliff Thornton (0413 330 458) for more information.
Social dance
MOE Social Dance's annualballis only three weeks away.
It promises to be anightnot to be missed.Itisanopportunity to dressup in your finest ball gown, or just come along for areally funnightofdancing.
The ball will be held Friday, October 10.
Tickets are $10 single and music will be played from 8pm to midnight. Toe-tapping band,The Silhouettes will be playing.
Tickets may be purchased at the door or from Russellon0457543 856.
The club has had awonderful year of dancing. Many committee members have introduced new dances and have enjoyedthe challenge.The club would love to see some new faces at the dance -you will be warmly welcomed.
The group meets at 8.30am Wednesday mornings at Gippsland Heritage Park (Old Gippstown) Moe. For more information, email: clem@ asia.com or phone 0427 262 064.
Dance lessons
GET dancingthis Springwith Latrobe Valley Dance Promotions Inc.
Dance lessons are held at Morwell Girl Guide Hall (18 Margaret St) from 7pm Thursday nights.
Brush up on new vogue or old time sequences,orwaltz into better health and make new friends.
Admission is $5 per person. Wear comfortable footwear.
Phone Len on 0439683 834 or Lynda (0428 489 041) for more.
Email: latrobevalleydancepromotioninc@gmail.com
Socialmedia: FacebookpageLatrobe Valley Dance Promotions Inc.
Squaredancing
THE Country Hoedown Club is now operating in Warragul on Sundays at the Goods Shed (in the Warragul Railwaystationcarpark).Why not come along and join for your first lesson this Sunday, September 21 from 1pm to 3pm for just $12 per person. Learn to dance and enjoy the great friendship and health benefits of square dancing.
For more information, email Janet at: CountryHoeodwn@gmail.com
Come and try croquet
IF you would like to try anew sport which is suitable for all ages, Traralgon Croquet Club is holding Come and Try day on Sunday, October 5from 11am-3pm (66-110 McNairn Rd Traralgon).
Flat soled enclosed shoes are your only requirement, and the club will provide everything else including assistancefromthe members to understand the game.
There is no charge for the day and you can come along at atimethat suits you.
The club also hassocial playona Saturday andTuesday from 12.30pm. On Wednesday nights,starting October 8play will be from 5pm, which gives another opportunity to try croquet.
For further information, phone Alison on 0447 276 783.
Youcan be apartof Community Corner
IF you are acommunitygroup and 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.
Durkin
Wonder wings: The Blue-winged Parrot will be the basis of atalk at the next meeting of Latrobe ValleyField Naturalists Photograph: Sue Woolley
Moves: Moe Social DanceClub’sannual ballis coming up.The clubhelda successfulChristmas in July event (pictured). Photograph supplied
No rejectingnew offer
By DAVID BRAITHWAITE
THE Reject Stop name will slowlydisappear across Australia, includingits stores in Traralgon, Morwell, Churchill and Moe, following the discount chain's acquisition by Canadian retailer Dollarama.
Dollarama bought The Reject Shop for $259 million, and last week announced its plan to phase out the name of the Australian purchase.
Dollarama has 1601 stores across Canada, with no item sold for more than C$5. Dollarama also owns 60.1 per cent of Dollarcity, which has 588 stores in Central and South America.
Dollarama Chief Executive, Neil Rossy told analysts afterreleasing the company's latest financial results, it had begun in deploying the Dollarama business modelinAustralian stores, with aphasing-in of select company merchandise already underway.
Dollarama has alsoappliedfor numerous local trademarks for its brands and products, including in homewares,plants and food storage.
Mr Rossysaidonce Reject Shop stores had a critical mass of its products,the company would
bring them under the Dollarama banner. The rebranding and store conversion is expected to be completed within three years.
As well as rebranding and changing its stock strategy, Dollarama plans to dramatically increase its number of Australian stores to better take on low-cost competitors suchasKmart, Target and Big W. Inheriting 395 Reject Shopstores in Australia, Dollarama planstohave up to 700 outlets by 2034
In March, The Reject Shop announced it had entered into an agreement to be purchased by Dollarama. At the time,Reject ShopChief Executive, Clinton Cahn said he was excited about the opportunities the transaction presented.
"There is strong cultural alignment between our teamsand we lookforward to working alongside the Dollarama team to leveragethe expertise of aleading value retailer, accelerate our store network expansion plan and continue helping all Australians save money every day," Mr Cahn said.
Also at the time the agreement was announced, Mr Rossy said the acquisition provided Dollarama with a"uniqueand compelling opportunity to bring our differentiatedvalueproposition to anew
will inherit395 Reject Shop stores in Australian, including Traralgon, Morwell, Moe and Churchill
Gippsland Watertarget reached
GIPPSLAND Water has achieved the target of being powered by 100per cent renewableelectricity by 2025.
The organisation met the goal withamix of solar, hydroelectric and biogasenergy generation, as well as purchased green power. The company's managing director, Sarah Cumming said the transition to renewable energy was acriticalstep for the organisation on its way to achieving net zero emissions by 2030.
“During the 2024/25 financial year, emissions resulting from our electricity consumption made up two-thirds of our total emissions,” Ms Cumming said.
“Now that we are sourcing all of our electricity from renewable sources,our carbon emissionswill dropbyover 20,000 tonnes, based on historical electricity consumption, which will put us on track to achieve net zero emissions by 2030.
“This aligns with the Victoriangovernment’s whole of government emissions reduction pledge, announced in 2021, mandating100 per cent renewable electricity for all government operations by 2025.”
market which presents aclear path for growth through an established platform".
"We look forward to embarkingonthisnew chapter of Dollarama's international growth journey with the local management team and its more than 5000 employees across Australia. Together, we will leverage our core strengths as value retailers with best-in-class merchandising, sourcing and operational expertise," Mr Rossy said.
The organisation has continued to develop renewable energy infrastructure, planted hundredsof hectares of native trees to remove carbon from the atmosphere, and begun to replace its fleet with low and zero emission vehicles. In October 2021, the Gippsland Water Board set the ambitious target to net zero emissions by 2030 -20years earlier than its original target.
To seeGippsland Water’sworktoreduce carbon emissions and plans to act on climate change, visit: www.gippswater.com.au/climate
50 years ago, September 17, 1975
Morwell to seek a'family court'
MORWELL Chamber of Commerce will fight to get a"family court" for Morwell. The new courts will be set up throughout Australia under the recently passed Family Law Act. Labor Party candidate in McMillan, Mr Bill Rutherford, last month promised to seek to have one of the courts established in Morwell. Chamber of Commerce secretary, Mr Jim Bush, said this week the chamber's first approachwould be to McMillan member, Mr Arthur Hewson. Mr Bush said there was nowhereinGippsland where there were facilities as good as in Morwell, particularly follo wing the recent addi tion of an ew courtroom.
30 years ago, September 15, 1995
Kennet critical of LRH
VICTORIAN Premier Jeff Kennet this weekentered the debate over the Latrobe Regional Hospital, criticising the hospital's administration. Speaking on radio from Italy this week, Mr Kennet was discussingthe high salaries paidtohospital administrators when he was asked if it was justified when acampus of LRH may be forced to close from alackoffunds. The Premier denied the hospital's claim that it would be forced to consolidate servicesonto one site. "The hospitalatthe Latrobe Valley is making that as aclaim becauseithasn't administered its own affairs well," he said."Most hospitals have, and their administrators have done a goodjob." LRHchief executive officer John O'Neill yesterday admitted the two hospitals (Moe and Traralgon) had aprevious history of poor management but said the hospital's currentrecord "stands for itself".Hesaid LRH had reducedthe cost of treating patients by 48 per cent and reduced waiting lists by 68 per cent.
10 years ago, September 21, 2015
Former Valleyjourno shaken by earthquake
ALATROBE Valley man caught up in last week's 8.3 magnitude earthquake in Chile has described the experience as "nerve-wracking".
Former Express journalist Jarrod Whittaker said the Santiago building in which he was teaching at the time shook for about five minutes during the earthquake. "I was in the middleofclass on the 13thfloor", Mr Whittaker said. "The buildingwas moving quitestronglyinboth directions, andyou think it's goingtostop, and thenitcontinued". He said he was put at ease by the tranquil reaction of the Chileans who experienced an 8.8 magnitude quake in 2010. The earthquake epicenter was more than 200kilometres northwest of Santiago, and dozens of people were killed or injured in last week's event.
To this: Dollarama hasmorethan1600 stores in Canada,and
Stellar: GippslandWater is nowpowered by 100per cent renewableelectricity. Photograph supplied
Book launchedsharinglocal stories
By KATRINA BRANDON
CAPTURING the stories of many individuals with diverse backgrounds in the community, Gippsland Multicultural ServicesInc (GMS) and Gippsland Multicultural RegionalEmergency Management Network has released abook on the journey's locals have taken to get to where they are today.
The book, GMSHorizons:Stories of Diversity, Connection, and Change,was compiled by 16 local contributors from diverse backgrounds.
GMS plays avital role in promoting multiculturalism, fostering social connections, and enhancing service delivery across the Gippsland region.
Surroundedbycommunityand friends, GMS launchedthe book,accompaniedbyawelcome from the recently appointed chief executive of the SettlementCouncilofAustralia,MariaDimopoulos.
Ms Dimopoulos had been in her position for eight weeks, during which time she had been visiting multicultural communities around the country, with the exception of Queensland.
During the event, Ms Dimopoulos shared her own journey and experiences as someone who was once new to the country. Hailing from Greece, Ms Dimopoulos moved to Geelong with her family when she was eight-years-old, where she experienced diversity for the first time.
“I came to Australia when Iwas about eight and my brother wassix.(We) literally did not know a word of English,” she said.
“(We) got dropped into aprimary school, where we didn’t know what was going on, and my mother had given my brother and me apillow because in Greece,
at lunch, you would sleep. We were then sent home with anote saying, ‘Your children are very lazy.’
“What it did was it really highlighted to me that, sadly, cultural differences back then were not terribly well understood, that there were alot of assumptions that were made about apractice like most of Greece.”
Besides the misunderstanding between the two lunch times, Ms Dimopoulos said she would often find herself the subject of racism due to her ethnic background. Ms Dimopoulos said these experiences shapedher commitment to humanrights,believing that everybody should live their lives with dignity and respect.
Since then,MsDimopoulos has gainedexperience workingwith the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Department of Foreign Affairsand Trade,and with many diverse communities, both locally and overseas.
Now, she is on amission.
“We've got some work to do,there's no doubt about that,” she told the group.
“But Ialsosee incredible examples of communities that are doing the most innovative things in local and regional communities like this one.
“I love what settlement services do for our communities, because Iabsolutely believethat if we can get settlement right, if we can invest the right amount of support and servicesfor newly arrived communities in away that Ididn't get …inaway that my parents didn't get …then we actually get better outcomes.
“My message to the government is, if you invest in settlement services, you invest in long-term
Leaders: Gippsland MulticulturalSer vices DiversityAdvisor,ArfaKhan, SettlementCouncil of Australia Chief Executive, MariaDimopoulos and Gippsland Multicultural Ser vices’Chief Executive, SallyGafa. Photographs:Katrina Brandon
Latrobe Valley showcase
LATROBE City Council has officially launched a newinvestmentcampaign designed to showcase the strength, diversity and potential of businesses andindustries across the region.
Told throughthe stories of local business owners and operators -from long-established enterprises to emerging start-ups -the campaign highlights Latrobe City as more than aplace to invest. It is aplace to grow, evolve and transform.
Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Dale Harriman said the campaign reflects the energy and ambition of the region.
“Latrobe City has always been aplace where ideas take root and industries grow," he said.
"This campaign tells the real stories of our local businesses–from those who’ve been innovating here for generations, to new enterprises choosing Latrobe as the placetolaunch boldideas,” the mayor said.
“We are more than aplace to invest. We’re aplace to transform. Withour strategic location, strong industry base, askilled workforce and community that moves forward together, Latrobe City is where opportunities become reality.
“The static display installation adjacent to the Traralgon Library is apowerful symbol of where Latrobe City is heading. As part of the Gippsland New EnergyConference,itnot onlyshowcases innovation and technology in action, it’s an invitation forbusinesses, investors and the community to see first-hand the opportunities being created here in Latrobe.”
The campaign also shines aspotlight on the region’s competitive advantages, including:
Strategic location and unrivalled access positioned on the Princes Highway (M1), with direct freight and passenger rail access to Melbourne, and home to the Latrobe Regional Airport;
Affordable, investment-ready land with competitive land and rental prices make Latrobe acost-efficient and attractive base for business;
Skilled workforce with nationally recognised strengths in engineering, manufacturing and energy generation;
Tales: Anew book has been released, capturing andcelebrating the journeys of locals from different backgrounds who have made Australia home
social cohesion. You invest in communities that feel like they are partofthe broader Australian community.SoI put my hand up because Ilove the settlement sector, because Ilove our multicultural communities.”
Reminiscing about amoment her mum experienced, Ms Dimopoulos highlighted that multicultural Australia is everyone in Australia, not just some, as on some level, there was apoint where most families moved to the country that we now share.
Shealsorecognisedthe work of her colleagues and the Minister for MulticulturalAffairs, Dr Anne Aly, as well as Mark Groote from the Department of Human Affairs Head Office for Social Cohesion.
In Ms Dimopoulos’ speech, she mentioned aposter the UNHCR produced about refugees.
"There's agreat UNHCRposter, andthe poster is this young man and agraffiti on awall that says,
‘Go back to where you came from’. And he says, ‘I would if Icould’, because refugees don'tleave willingly. Refugees are forced to leave because the situation is so unsafe for them and their families."
“Wetalknow about atrauma-informed response. Ithink that has been areally important part. We understand that perhapsweneed to investthrough
thatlensoftrauma-informed care; we need to investmore time in supporting people throughtheir journey of integration.”
Taking the stage, Ms Gafa shared the story of the years behind GMS, acknowledging more than 40 years of work advocating for multicultural communities in the Gippsland region.
“In recent years, when IstartedatGMS,the focus and funding were almost solely on aged care, which is avital and core part of our business," she explained.
"I've continued to grow this and prepare our organisation and staff to ensure we meet all quality requirements under the aged care reforms. We have now successfully obtainedNDIS accreditation, enabling us to expand.
“Our support workers are now askilled team of both long-term,experienced supportworkersand recruits trained in dementia, mental health,first aid, theimportanceoftrauma, informed care and cultural awareness, delivering high-quality, personcentred, and trauma-informed care.”
For more info rmat ion on the Gippsl and Multicultural Services,goto: https://www.gms. org.au/
Topdrop, fine wine milestone
By KATRINA BRANDON
NESTLED between Tyers and Glengarry, the Narkoojee Winery is celebrating 45 years.
Feeling proud, Narkoojee's owners, Harry and Val Friend,toldthe Express that while they initiallydidn’t see themselves at this point, they are happy to see the business flourish.
Infrastructure for growth with high-voltage transmission lines, reliable water supply, and major industrial precincts ready to support energy, manufacturing, and logistics, and;
Culture of innovation anchored by Federation University, TAFE Gippsland, and the Gippsland Innovation Centre.
Among the highlights is the Gippsland Logistics and Manufacturing Precinct in Morwell -a newly established 40-hectaresitedesigned to drive innovation, employment and growth in advanced manufacturing, transport, and logistics. Withfully serviced, affordable industrial land now available, it is anticipated to become amajor hub for industry in the region.
Latrobe City is also positioning itself as aleader in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) through the diversification of Latrobe Regional Airport.
The airport, located between Morwell and Trar algo n, is alre ady home to the Latro be Aerospace TechnologyPrecinct and is attracting leading research and development partners, including Swinburne University of Technology’s AIR Hub and Nova Systems.
“Our vision for the Latrobe Regional Airport is bold -weare building acentre for aerospace innovation and advanced air mobility, right here in Latrobe,” the mayor said.
“This precinct is about futureindustries, newjobs and exciting opportunities for the next generation It’s aplace where aviation, technology, and sustainability meet and where the future of aerospace is being developed.”
Council’s campaign underscores Latrobe City’s unique offering: space to grow, support to thrive, and acommunity that believes in what’s possible.
“Latrobe City is open for business -and open to new ideas,” the mayor said.
“Whether you’re launching, expanding, or reimagining your business,there’s no better place to do it than here.”
For more information on investinginLatrobe City, visit: latrobecity.com.au/invest
Tracking back to Narkoojee’s beginning, Harry’s parents, Edna and Athelstan Friend, had named the farm after extensive research, and came up with aname that meant 'a place of flowers'. The farm started as adairy farm until later on, when Harry became more involved.
Harry’s beginningsstarted in New South Wales,and his family later moved north of Traralgon and purchased the property.
Unlike Harry, Val was born and raised in Traralgon and even attended Grey Street Primary School.
Growing up, neither of them considered the prospect of establishing aflourishing winery, but they looked into the education worldfor their occupational desires. Landing in Footscray, Val ended up teaching and later married Harry.
At that time, Harry’s parents still owned the farm, and the happy couple visited on weekends.
“For along time we lived in Melbourne. We (later) planted alittle vineyard over thereinthe paddock, and decided, ‘Oh, this is pretty good’.
Andthat'swhenweretired (from teaching),” Valsaid.
Bit by bit, Harry and Val startedtoplant more varieties of grapes, growing their vineyard in 1980.
Early on, they entered the Rutherglen Wine Show and were delighted as they took out the amateur section, which helped spark their next course of action into business. As Harry’s parents were starting to need more assistance, Harry and Val moved up to the farm.
Following in the business,Val and Harry’s son Axel started at Narkoojee. In an interview with Wineries of Victoria,Axelshared hisentry intothe business and his passion for the vines.
“As achild visiting the farm, Idevelopeda strong desire to become adairy farmer,” Axel said.
“This motivated me to begin adegree in agricultural science aftergraduating from high school. However, by this time, my parents had started planting grapevines on the property. Isoon found myself helping them with the vineyard and making the early wines.”
Val and Harry told the Express that the best part of the business over the years, and still is, is meetingeveryone whocomesthrough the doors, and the conversations to be had over a glass of wine.
Throwinfinancial stress, sleepless nights, and unexpected surprises, and some families in Gippsland are feeling the weight more than ever. That’s where Olivia’s Place steps in, making sureevery parent gets afair go. Operatingfrom Drouin, and serving all six shires and beyond, this grassroots organisation isn’t just about cots, nappies, and prams, it’s about reassurance, guidance, and acommunitythatshows up when life feels overwhelming.
Olivia’s Place supports parents at any stage of pregnancyright through to achild’s first birthday, helping them feel capable and supported, even when the odds are stacked.
State backs cancer study
THE stategovernment is backing Victoria’s world-class cancer researchers, delivering $2.7 million to improve canceroutcomes and save lives across the state.
Minister for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas announcedsix post-doctoral fellowships would be awarded in partnership with the Cancer Council Victoria.
The funding will support early-career researchers whohavenot yetreceived significant research funding to investigate the causes, prevention, detection, and supportivecareortreatment of cancer.
In alignment with this year’s theme, ‘United by Unique’, this year’s recipients are focusing on adiverse range of research areas -highlighting that everyexperience of cancer is unique.
The investment is also supportingCancer Council Victoria’s Grants-in-Aid program to support the best and brightest to achieve breakthroughs in cancer research, by discovering and improving prevention, detection,treatment, and care for Victorians affected by cancer.
Supporting cancer research forms a critical component of the Victorian Cancer Plan 2024-2028launchedinSeptember last year,withthe new planfocused on improving cancer survival ratesand achieving equitablehealth outcomes for all people living with the disease.
Thestate governmenthas investedmore than $400 million to achieve acancer-free future,byimprovingdiagnoses and survival rates, including $100 million for advanced cancer treatments,$50 milliontobuildthe city-based Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre, and $35 million for the Victorian Paediatric Cancer Consortium.
For more information, visit: cancervic. org.au/research/grants
What does that look like? It starts with listening.
The Family SupportProgram meets with parents to hear their worries and challenges around mental health, and help skilfully map out practical solutions. Then, the material aid program (MAP) providesessentials like cots, car seats, clothing, and nappies. All items that are rehomed are safety-checked against the mandatory standards, butdemandoften exceeds supply. Last year, MAP deliveredmore than $111,000 worth of aid. Many parents face heart-breaking decisions, rationing nappies or keeping ababyinthe same one all day just to make ends meet.
Asmall team of paid staff keeps the organisation ticking,but the heartbeatofOlivia’s Placeisits volunteers, from all ages and all walks of life.
There’s something foreveryone.Secondary aged children can volunteer during school holidays, corporate teams can join for team-building days, and those with just afew hours aweek can connect with avibrant community while doing something meaningful for countless families.
Many volunteers bring their own stories, recalling times when they wished avillage had been there for them. Last year alone,volunteersdonated more than 6600recorded hours, quietly ensuringfamilies have the support they need.
Around 60 per cent of familiesseeking help come fromthe Latrobe Valley area. Withnorecurring government support, Olivia’s Place relies entirely on thegenerosity of thecommunity. Its ann ual gala is th em aj or fun dr ai ser, complemented by appeals during tax time and Christmas. Every dollar raised goes straight back into supporting families, and last year 230 families received support. Recently, afamily with primary-aged children discoveredthey were expectingtwins. Excitement
quickly gave way to panic-double prams, double cots, double everything, and double the bills.
Hoping for help through the Multiple Birth Allowance, they were devastated to learn they didn’t qualify. Picking up the phonetoask forhelp was the hardest step, but it led them to Olivia’s Place.Through the FamilySupport Program, they received qualified guidanceand reassurance, while the Material Aid Program provided the essentials. Instead of feelingoverwhelmed, they found avillage around them, allowing them to embrace the joy of pregnancy without being buried by its challenges.
Oliva's Place General Manager, PhebaDaniel explained “We are constantly challenging the status quo. Too often, people only ask for help as alastresort. We’re working towards redefining this and strivingtomakesupport an everyday, unremarkable, normal thing.”
The village extends to Little Livvy’s, the only baby and maternity-dedicated op shop in the region, operating in the same premises. Families are welcomed warmly and can access affordable pre-loveditems, allowing parentstoprovide for their children without constant financial stress. Many parents return regularly.
“This is the one place Ican confidently bring my children,where Idon’t always have to sayno,” one mumshared.
Forthose wanting to be apartofthe village, or families needing ahand, Olivia’sPlaceprovides multiple ways to connect,contribute, or receive support.
To support Olivia’s Place or if you need assistance, visit: www.oliviasplace.org.auand fillout the ‘Contact Us’ form, or call 03 5622 1022.
Be sure to prepare for hay fever season
AS we enter the spring months, GPs are calling for patientstobeprepared in managinghay fever, allergies, and asthma.
It comes following emerging evidence thatclimate change is creating longer pollen seasons in some of the country's largest cities,only heighteningthe importance of taking asthma and allergic rhinitis seriously. New data also reveals that Melbourne’s pollen seasonisstarting earlier and lasting longer.
President of the Royal Australian College of GPs, Dr Michael Wright, said that your regular GP is ready to help.
“Hayfever is very common, and it’s vital patients who experience allergic rhinitis and asthma manage their conditions very carefully,” he said.
“This includes consulting with your regular GP to ensure you have an asthma plan in place. Rather
Level up against cartheft
CRIME Stoppers and Victoria Police are urging all Victorians to take an active role in protecting their vehicles, as part of a state-wide campaign targeting asharp rise in car theftsdriven by thieves using new sophisticatedtechnologies
The 'Level Up Agai nst Car Th eft ' campaign empowers the community with practical steps to reduce the risk of car theft and to report suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers.
The campaign respondstodramatic increases in motor vehicle crime across the state.
In the year to March 2025, more than 550 vehicles were stolen in Victoria, a47.1 percent increase year on year. Thefts from vehicles also rose sharply, reaching 82,414 offences, a39.3per cent jump from the previous year.
Offendersare increasingly targeting vehicles with keyless entry and pushstartsystems, using devices that mimic or override factory settings. Makes such as Holdens, Toyotas and Subarus are being stolen at three to four times the rate recorded five years ago.
While police are actively pursuing offenders, vehicle owners have an important role to play in prevention. The campaign encourages the use of straightforward anti-theft items such as OBD port locks, steeringwheel locks, Faradaypouches,and anti-theft number plate screws, which are small investments that can makeabig difference.
Crime Stoppers Victoria Chief Executive, Stella Smith said vehicle crime was no longer just random or opportunistic.
“Car crime might seem like bad luck, but in many cases, it is calculated and preventable,” she said.
“That is why we are urging Victorians to take simple,proactive steps. Locking your car, parking in safer spots, removing valuables, and using anti-theft devices can all make areal difference.”
Police Det ecti ve Inspect or, Jul ie Macdonald, from the Vehicle Crime Squad, saidpolice werearresting asignificant number of offenders in possessionofkey reprogramming devices,aspolice intelligence shows as many as one in five of all cars are disappearing despite their owners retaining the keys -indicating the use of this technology.
“These devices are turning up more and more at search warrants, while we’ve also seensome of ourmostprolific youth offenders using them to steal cars that are then used to facilitate further serious offending," she said.
“In recent times,our Operation Trinity units have caughtyouth offenders throwing these devicesfrom the car moments before beingarrested.
“One of the biggest concerns for police is the increasing risk created on our roads as the number of stolen cars rises.
“These vehicl es are of te nd rive na t extreme speeds,and as aresult,we’veseen asharp spike in the number of collisions involving stolen cars, with 760 in the 12 months to March 2025.
“Police are continu ing to target car thieves, as well as engaging with impacted manufacturers to address these technological advances, however we also implore the community to consider how they can foil tech savvy thieves.”
Ms Smith said Crime Stoppers provided a trustedand anonymousplatform for people to share what they knew.
than waiting for asthma flare ups to occur as the seasons change and pollen counts grow in coming weeks and months, it’s important to have aplan ready, including preventive medications.
“Melbourne is notoriouslythe allergy capital of the world, with almost athird of people experiencing allergic rhinitis, oftendue to inhaling pollens. However, this isn’t aproblem isolated to Melbourne, people in communities nationwideshould be ready.
“Thunderstorm asthmatypically strikes in our south-eastern states from October to December, so now is the time to be prepared. People with allergy issues are at increased risk, so again these patients should talk to their GP about starting hay fever treatment and potentially asthma prevention ahead of time. It’s best to be prepared, and your GP is there ready to help.”
“Every piece of information counts. Whether it is dashcam footage, CCTV footage, or crime information, your report could stop acar theft or help prevent further harm,” she said.
“We all have apart to play. Let’s make it harder for car thieves to operate in Victoria.”
For emergencies or life-threatening situations, always phone 000.
Any one wit hi nfo rmat ion, dashc am footage or CCTVfootage which can help policeinvestigate an incident can report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at: www. crimestoppersvic.com.auorphone 1800 333 000
Helping hand: Olivia’sPlacesuppor ts parentsatany stage of pregnancyrightthrough to achild’s firstbir thday. Photograph supplied
Business Guide
THERE is so much to see at the Francis Plumbing & Gas Fitting showroom, because there is hardly a thing the tradies can’t help you with.
As time goes on, the business adds more and more services to its capabilities. They have expanded into home maintenance and repairs, concreting and painting, plastering, bathroom/laundry renovations, handyman repair jobs, yard clean ups and end of lease cleans, as well as plumbing, gas fitting, heater and cooling.
It is a one stop shop where homeowners can avoid the hassle of juggling a handful of different trades at once.
In the showroom, browse the displays of heaters, air conditioners, hot water services, tapware, bathroom products and kitchen appliances. The same company will install those products.
Duane Francis launched the business as a home-based family enterprise in 2010, and its success has come down to quality customer service above all. His team
understands each customer has unique needs that staff address with expert advice and prompt service.
Francis Plumbing offers a full service, starting with free quotes, the sale of the appliance, all the way to the final fit out and installation.
Duane’s staff offer maintenance on natural gas, heating and cooling systems, and can help you with any general plumbing work and home
DUTCH SHEPHERD
Regretfully looking to reho me. Male ,4 yrs Desexed. Very energetic and playful. Must be on land. Previous experience with Shepherd breeds is necessary. Please contact for further information if interested. 041 18 25 562 or shaejeanes@gmail.com. m/c 953010005659244 Pet Exchange Source# EE290530
CREDITORS, next-of-kin and others having claims against the Estate of BRIAN REGINALD WYLLIE late of 26 Langford Street, Morwell VIC 3840 who died on 4September 2022 are required by the Exec utors GRA NT ANTHONY WYLLIE and PETA LOUISE WYLLIE to send detailed particulars of their claims to the said Executors c/- Prior Law of 154 Commercial Road, Morwell, Victoria 3840, by 21 November 2025 after which date the Executors will proceed to distribute the said Estate having regard only to the claims of which it then has notice. Grant of Letters of Administration was obtained in Victoria on 16 May 2023. PRIOR LAW, 154 Commercial Road, Morwell, Victoria 3840
The Moe RSL Sub-Branch Inc.
Minimum 6lines$60without aphoto or $74with a colour
NOTICE TO ALL LIFE, (FINANCIAL) SERVICE &AFFILIATE MEMBERS. GENERAL MEETING 2025 NOTIFICATION.
Youare hereby notified that the General Meeting will be held in the Function Room, Thursday 25th SEPTEMBER 2025 commencing at 5.30pm with light refreshments following meeting.
Please note: only Financial Service and Affiliate Members areeligible and entitled to vote We trust you will attend as part of your responsibility to the successful running of the venue. Social members may attend as observers. For those of you, who arenot financial members, please contact Reception as soon as possible. Your prompt attention to this matter would be appreciated.
All Agenda items should be submitted to the Secretary no later than (7) days prior to the GM (COB 18th September 2025).
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Reg: No: A0012076N
The 82ndAnnual Generalmeeting of the Moe Racing Club Incorporated will be heldatthe Moe Racecourse in the members function room commencing at 5.00pm on Wednesday 19th November 2025. The following Businesswill be dealt with at the meeting:
1. Acceptance of apologies and confirmation of the minutes of the 81st Annual General Meeting.
2. Receipt and adoption of the Chairman’sAnnual Report andthe Annual Financial Statementsfor the racing year ended 30th June 2025.
3. Declaration of the poll of the election of members of the Committee. Any financial Member seeking election to the committee may obtain anomination paper from the Chief Executive Officer and which nomination paper, signed by two voting members of the club, and accompanied by writtenconsent of the candidatemust be lodged no later than the 21st October 2025 withthe ChiefExecutive Officer. All Committee members arerequired to undergo police, credit and directorship checks beforeobtaining aseat Thefollowing Committee member’sterms will be expiring on 1stNovember 2025 andare eligibleto nominate for re-election. Mr BradLaw,MrBrendan Blackshaw and Mr Roger Taylor
4. Any Voting member intending to submitbusiness for consideration at the Annual General Meeting or questions for the auditor,must submit this business in writingorby electronic transmission to the Chief Executive Officernolater thanthe 21st October
To
T'GON 88 Hammersmith Circuit, Saturday and Sunday, 8am. Games, baby stuff, TV, knick kna cks, clo th es and household goods.
Garage Sales
ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE:
Council is seeking submissions from qualified companies/applicants for the following:
RFT/451 -Bridge Repair Works at Mark ley ’s Road,MirbooNor th Proposals close 2pm AEDT Tuesday7October 2025
Documentation is availablefrom Council’s e-Tendering Portal: www.southgippsland.vic.gov.au/tenders
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.
DELIVERERS WTD
LCC-858 Construc tion of Mathison Park Adventure Playground,Churchill
Tenders areinvited from suitably qualified contractorsfor theabove Seewww.latrobe.vic.gov.au/tenders fordetails
Submissions aretobelodged as detailed in the documentation.Council is not bound to accept the lowest or anytender
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.
over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Employment Permit. Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted. Adult deliverers also welcome GP1 632593
...you DON’T have to make aspecial trip to Morwell to place classified ads? Justpop into Moe Nextra Lotto, 1-3 Moore St Moe and the friendly staff can assist you. The only EXCEPTIONS are classified adswhich contain aphoto.
These will need to be placed at the Morwell Office, 21 George Street Morwell 5135 4455
COFEE VAN
EXPRESS
Deaths •
CERRATO (Deluca)
Brigida Passed away, unexpectedly, peacefully at home on 6September 2025. Aged 87 years Loving wife of Ernesto (dec). Loving mother of Tony. Loving mother and mother-in-law of Sandra and Frank. Grandmother to Michael and Jessica, Daniel and Georgia. Biznonna to Jordy, Quinn and Archer Reunited with Papa Rest in Peace
CURTIS Luke William Ronald Passed away as Result of accident on September 3rd, 2025. Aged 17 years Loved son of Paul and Coz. Loving partner of Lilly. Much loved brother of Maddie, Kane, Tyla, Cody, Natasha and Logan.
DIPPOLITO (nee Chappetta) Eva Born 1/5/1946 in Lattarico province of Cosenza. Passed away 4/9/2025. Aged 79 years. Beloved daughter of Luigi and Carmella (dec.). Much loved wife of Mario (dec.). Cherished Mum of Gaetano, Claudio and Natalie, Tony. Adored Nonna to Matt and Annaliese, Nik and Kelsey, Allie, Jessica, Rachael and Byron. Great Nonna to Sienna, Sam (dec.), Jontie, Makhai, Lilli, Eden, Koda, James and Lachlan. Loved sister and Zia to all her nieces and nephews and extended family back in Italy. We will miss you more than words can say and cannot imagine life without the pillar of our family circle. We will carry your love in our hearts and find the strength to go on. Forever loved, forever remembered. Forever watching the sun rise. Rest in Peace.
GRIFFITH Hywel
Passed away peacefully at Querencia Retirement Village Moe 9September 2025, in the presence of Family. Aged 89 Years
Dearly loved husband of Dilys (dec.). Much loved father and father-in-law of Delyth (dec.), Rhian, Merfyn (dec.), Richard and Debbie, Bethann and Ian, Iwan and Niccole. Adored taid to all his grand and great-grandchildren.
VAN DER MEER (nee Davey)
Carole Lorraine
Passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Latrobe Regional Health on Wednesday 10 September 2025.
Aged 78 years
Loved partner of Graeme. Loved and loving wife of Rudy (dec.). Loved mum of Kim, Dean and Jay, and step mum to Linda and Graeme. Mother-in-law to Melanie and Mark. Cherished Nan to Paige and Daniel, Mitch and Chelsey, Brodie, Blake and Tyler. Adored great grandmother to Riley and Harper. Loving sister of Gary and Carol and Lee (dec.) and Maree. Loved aunty, special friend to Sandra and Denise and dear to many.
O'DOWD
Francis Martin (Frank) Passed away unexpectedly Tuesday 9September. Aged 68 years Son of Frank (dec.) and Josie back home in Ireland.
Loving husband to Delores. Loving dad to Lisa, David, Frank Jr, Sarah and their partners.
Grandfather to James, Lucas, Oscar, Madison and Isla.
Brother to Bernadette, Theresa, Patrick, John, Caroline, Michelle and Siobhan. Thanks for the wonderful adventures together. Rest now. For Funeral Information please visit our website: latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au
MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au
ROY Jenny The Members of the Probus Club of Maryvale extend their sincere sympathy to Roy and family on the passing of their fellow Member, Jenny.
SMITH (nee Longbottom) Margaret Jessie 18/1/1927 -7/9/2025
Dearly loved and treasured wife of Kelvin (dec.). Mother of Lorraine Stratford, Wendy Marshall, David Smith and Leslie Smith. Grandmother of 11 and Great Grandmother of 17. 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. We all loveyou Mother Picking roses in God's garden
It happened so quickly, it's hard to understand, one day you were with us, the next day in God's hands.
VAN
As asister you shine, As aperson you glow, Always caring for another, That we all know. You touch everyone you meet, With atrait that's so rare, Love, kindness and compassion. An angel in God's care. All our love, brother Gary, Carol, Troy, Marc, Luke, Rachel and families
VAN DER MEER Carole
Dearly loved friend of our family for many years. Sadly missed. Helen, Denise and Kevin, Heather and David and Cheryl and Merv.
VAN DER MEER Carole
Treasured memories of awonderful friend, who will be missed so much.
Thinking of Graeme, Dean, Kim, Jay and families, you were her world. Love from Denise, Kevin, Andrew, Nick and Elyse and families XX.
VAN DER MEER
Carole Yinnar Football Netball Club wish to offer our deepest condolences to Dean, Mel, Blake, Mitch and the extended Van Der Meer family on
HARRUP Ian Sincere condolences to the Harrup Family on the sudden passing of Ian. Taken way too soon. Rest Easy, Harry. From your old school mates, Passa, Fud, Porky, Archie and Ox.
WHELAN Shirley Members of the Moe RSL Sub-Branch are deeply saddended by the passing of their esteemed Affiliate Member and friend, Shirley. We offer our sincere sympathy to her family. LEST WE FORGET.
WOOF Lawrence James 16/5/1933 -5/9/2025
Passed away peacefully. Much loved Husband of Shirley (dec.). Much loved Father of Stephe n( de c. )a nd Leanne (dec.). Much loved brother and uncle to his siblings, nieces, and nephews.
DRINKEN (nee Gosling) The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mrs June Drinken (nee Gosling) will be held at Handley Funeral Service Chapel, 24 Anderson Street, Leongatha on MONDAY (22 September 2025) commencing at 11am.
GRIFFITH
The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mr. Hywel Griffith will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Avenue Moe, FRIDAY (19 September 2025) at 10am.
MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au
The Funeral
and Committal for Cremation for Mrs
will be held at the Glengarry Uniting Churc h, 47 Cairnbrook Rd Glengarry on THURSDAY (18 September 2025) commencing at 1pm.
MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON
TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au
VAN DER MEER
The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mrs Carole Lorraine Van Der Meer will be held at, Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway Traralgon on FRIDAY (19 September 2025), commencing at 11am.
CERRATO
ARequiem Mass for Mrs Brigida Cerrato will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 262 Commercial Road Morwell on WEDNESDAY 17 September 2025 commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of Mass the Funeral will leave for Hazelwood Cemetery. Brigida's Service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream please go to Latrobe Valley Funeral Services website.
MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON
MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au
CUNNINGHAM Allan Memor ial se rvi ce to celebrate the life of Allan Cunningham will be held at St James' Anglican Church, 100 Grey Street Traralgon, THURSDAY 18 September, commencing at 1pm.
HARRUP AService of Thanksgiving and Celebration for the life of Ian Harrup will be held at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Church Sreet Traralgon on Thursday 18th September 2025, commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of this service the funeral will proceed to the Gippsland Memorial Park Cemetery. This service will also be livestreamed. Please go to John Galbraith Funerals Facebook page and click on link provided.
HIRST Annette Emilie Frances The Funeral Service to celebrate Annette's life will take place in the Rose Chapela tG ippsland Memorial Park Crematorium, Cemetery Drive Traralgon, Monday 22 September 2025 commencing at 2pm.
for Luke Curtis will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Ave Moe on Thursday (18 September 2025) at 11am. MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au
DANIELS Tina Louise
DIPPOLITO
Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Mrs Eva Dippolito will be offered at St Mary's Catholic Church, 102 Commercial Road Yarram at 11am on THURSDAY (18 Sept 2025). Following Mass, the funeral will leave the above church for the Yarram Cemetery.
MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au
WHELAN
The funeral service for Mrs Shirley Whelan will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Avenue, Moe Wednesday 24th September 2025 commencing at 11am. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Yallourn Cemetery.
MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au
WOOF Lawrence James The Funeral Service to celebrate Lawrence's life will take place in the Rose Chapela tGippsland Memorial Park Crematorium, Cemetery Dr Traralgon, Monday 29 September 2025 commencing at 11am.
LAZARIS Gerry Tasia, Stan, Lisa and families wish to thank friends and family for your overwhelming love, support and kindness after the recent passing of our much loved husband, father and papou. Your floral tributes, cards, phone calls, messages, visits and food were greatly appreciated. Thanks also to the staff at LRH for all your care. Please accept our sincere thanks.
Where
message
L t b
Latrobe Valley Express Distribution area
to homes and businesses including roadside mailbox delivery in many rural areas. Available for free from outlets in smaller towns.
Total audited circulation 34,894 copies Published Wednesday
•“Thereiscontinued strongdemand(and passion) forthe printedproduct in ruraland regional Australia.”
•“Audiencesoverwhelminglyviewaprinted copy of theirnewspaper as an essentialservice fortheircommunity.”
Sporting results from around the Latrobe Valley
Traralgon wins all three
BASEBALL LVBA
BY RENAE GILLET
IN adramatic conclusion to the senior Latrobe Vall ey Baseba ll Assoc iation season ,t he Traralgon Redsoxemerged victorious to take the premierships in all three senior grades.
The Redsox AGrade won anail-biting showdown against Sale Rangers 8to7
All games were played under perfect skies at Sale's Stephenson Park on Sunday.
The Redsoxjumped out early, with Jordan Gilmore driving in the game’s first run in the opening frame. By the fourth, Traralgon had built acommanding five-run lead, but Sale wasn’t going quietly.
The Rangersmounted afiercecomeback, capitalising on awalk, adouble, asingle, and a fielder’s choice to close the gap.
Sale surged ahead in the bottom of the fifth, with Sammy Garcia’s grounder leading to two runs scoringonafielder’s choice, givingthe Rangers a7–6 edge.But the Redsox responded swiftly in the sixth. Luke Hornstra doubled to centre, and acostlyerror by Sale allowed two runs to cross the plate, flipping the scoreboard in Traralgon’s favour.
Hornstra was aforce on both sides of the ball.
On the mound, he went the distance,scattering 11 hits and allowing seven runs (five earned) over nine innings, while striking out two. At theplate, he was unstoppable -going 4-for-5 with three RBIs.
Traralgon’s offence was relentless, racking up 12 hits. Gilmore and Andrew Matthews each notched multiple hits, while Jarvis Johansen and Gilmore wreaked havoc on the basepaths with multiple steals.The Redsoxswiped six bags in total and turned three double plays to stifle Sale’s momentum.
Sale’s lineup produced 11 hits, with Tim Hector leading the charge from the nine spot, driving in two runs and going 1-for-2. Brad Taylor and Shotaro Morimoto each added two hits, and the
Rangers turned two double plays of their own.
The win marks agrittyperformance from Traralgon, who showed resilience and poise under pressure. With contributions across the line-up and astandout day from Hornstra, the Redsox provedthey can win the close ones when it counts.
THE BGrade GrandFinal delivered edge-of-your-seat action, culminating in a walk-off single by John Kus in the bottom of the seventh to seal a7–6 winfor Traralgon against Churchill. Despite being out-hit 12 to 7, the Redsox capitalised on key momentsand Churchill errors to snatch victory.
Churchill Braves openedthe scoringwith asolo shot to left field by Danny Cannizzaro, who led the offensewith three hits. Brad Jones added two RBIs and went 2-for-3, including aclutch single
in the seventh to tie the game at six.
Jack Thomas took the mound for Churchill, allowing four hits and four runs (three earned) overfive innings.Onthe other side, Kus pitched acomplete game for Traralgon, giving up 12 hits and six runs while striking out three.
Alex McCormick was instrumental for the Redsox, driving in threerunsand going 2-for-4.
AlongsideBrian Spiteri and Matt Robertson, Traralgon ran rampant on the base paths, swiping six bases and turning akey double play to keep Churchill at bay.
IN the CGrade decider, Traralgon Redsox unleashed arelentless offensive barrage to overpower Churchill Braves Green 15–4.
The Redsox scored in every inningfrom the third onward, capitalising on errors and timely hitting.
Churchill Braves Green briefly held the lead
in the second after aLiam Duncan RBI single anda
But
innings
and
double from Michael Bentley and atriple from Brett Sharp. Daniel McKinnonstartedfor Churchill,allowing15runs(seven earned)overfive innings.Lee Donoghue was steady for Traralgon, giving up justfour runs (two earned) and striking out two. Bentleyand AndrewMcConville each drove in three runs, while Patrick Brooks addedtwo hits and two stolen bases. Churchill’s Liam Duncan and Jake Bone fought hard, each collecting two hits andmultiple stolen bases,but the Redsox’s 12-hit performance proved too much.
With all three Redsox squads lifting silverware, Traralgon BaseballClubcapped off astellar season with atripleGrand Final triumph.
Startofgood things to come: CGrade premier,Traralgon. Photographs supplied
Wildcats wonderfulyet again
FOOTBALL
NORTH GIPPSLAND
BY DAVID BRAITHWAITE
WOODSIDE has done it again. For the secondyear in succession, the Wildcats defeated minor premier Traralgon-Tyers United to claim the North Gippsland senior football premiership.
The Wildcats more than matched the Bombers, who had only lost one match this season, with Saturday'sgameat Gaskin Park, Churchill, in the balance until the final minutes.
The Bombers had their chances, but two late goals gave Woodside a13-point victory, 12.12 (84) to 9.17 (71).
ComingupagainstaBombers side which enjoyed the previous weekend off,the Wildcatstook the form which demolished Heyfield in the preliminary final into the league's biggest day.
Wildcats co-captainand ruckman RyanFoatwas outstanding around the ground, and was deservedly awarded the medal for best player.
Robert Michaelides and MattDyke wereagain hard at the ball, and were rewardedfor their efforts.Indefence, Adam Janssen and Rowan Missen made life difficult for the Bombers' forwards.
At the other end of the ground, Michael O’Sullivan kicked three vital goals. Two-timeleague best-and-fairest MichaelJacobsenstood-out for TTU, kicking two goals. Jacobsen and Sam Curtain helped give the Bombers some ascendancy in the midfield.
TTU ruckman FrazarBrouns performed strongly, as did defenders Liam
GOLF
CHURCHILL ANDMONASH
StablefordSaturday6th September 2025.
AGrade Winner: B. Downie 34 pts
BGrade Winner: S. Sanders36pts
CGrade Winner: M. Lugton 34 pts
D.T.L: 1. J.Cahill 32, 2. R. Sands 31, 3. R. Dent 31, 4. B. Mathieson 31, 5. M. Soppe
31, 6. D. Cluderay 30, 7. C. Stevens 30.
N.T.P: 3rdJ.Cahill (Propin), 5th. Ash West, 12th J. Banfield, 14th J. Cahill
Birdies: 3rdS.Sanders, B. Mathieson. Target Hole –R.Dent
Place Getters: Keily, Bev(21) 32 C/B, MacGregor,Karen (22) 32
Nearest to Pin: 4th KarenMacGregor
Target Hole Prize: AmyTaylor
Thursday, 28 August 2025 OPEN Mixed Stableford
Grade AWinners: Yeomans,Wayne (10) 34
Grade BWinners: Papettas, Maurice (16)
36 C/B
Michie andTrentHourigan,and forward David Waddell.
As expected, playwas hotly-contested early, and it wasn't until the sixth minute for the opening goal to be kicked, from the boot of Bomber Hayden Willaton.
After aWildcat kick out of defence was intercepted by aBomber, Kade Duncan kicked agoal on the run to give TTU a 12-point advantage 12 minutes in. It looked like the Bombers were inspired to avenge last season's Grand Final loss to the Wildcats. Woodside lifted,but missed some early chances in attack. That was until, set-up by aBrody Stainer tackle, Liam
Place Getters: Colvin,Anthony36, Gauci, Anthony33, Backman, Phil 32 C/B, Scammell, Mark32
The Bombers tookbackthe lead whenJakeAlbanese sent the ball to Jye Neilson for the Bombers' third major of the day. A50m penalty gifted Albanese the chance to kick agoal, but missed in front.
Woodside was two pointsinfront after LukeJohnson's kick from outside the 50m arc just covered the distance,before O'Sullivan goaledtoput the Wildcats ahead by eight.
Stainer was in the right spot to gather the loose ball, with his goal extending the margin to 13 points heading into time-on.
Foat took astrong mark before kicking the fifth Woodside goal of the quarter, as the Bombers were left flat-footed in defence. Two minutes later, O'Sullivan kicked his secondgoal to put the Wildcats 24 points up.
Back-to-back goalsfromJacobsen put the Bombersbackinthe contest. The Bombers had another throughWaddell as the teams went into the rooms with Woodside leading by four points and the game in the balance.
Leeson snapped the Wildcats' first goal, cutting the deficit to four points in time added-on.
The Wildcats could of had the lead at quarter-time, but kicked three more behinds to trail by apoint at the first break.The Wildcatseventually overcametheir inaccuracyinfront goal,but theBombers would have that problem later in the match, as both teams appeared to strugglekicking towards the northern end of the ground.
Woodside took the lead when Cameron Whiteoak, with the help of afreekick and50-metre penalty, booted the first goal of thesecond term
37 C/B,McKenzie,Callum 37 C/B,Polo, Jayden 37 C/B,Colvin, Anthony37, Hogbin, Chris 36 C/B,Bechaz, Paul 36 C/B
Great Score: John Harber (Birdie) @14, Jayden Polo (Birdie) @4,Vincent Powell (Birdie) @14, Brian Dooley(Birdie) @8, MannyBorg(Birdie) @4,Paul Bechaz (Birdie) @14, DanChapple (Birdie) @8 Nearest to Pin: 4th MannyBorg, 8th Brian
athrow-up to kick agoal and put the Bombers ahead by one point. There was tension in the air.
Aone point Woodside was awarded a50m penalty and would have likely kicked agoal, only for the Bombers to be given afree kick for an off the ball incident.
With scores level, Lee Stockdale kicked the ball to Stainer running into space. Stainer's second goal of the day saw the Wildcats back in front.
Denovan had the chance to level the scores again, but his shot hit the post. Missedchances wouldprovetobethe story of the final term for the Bombers. At the other end, Woodside was awarded afree kick for deliberate out of bounds, with O'Sullivan making the most of his chance. Woodside was now up by nine points.
With the Bomberspressingfor a much-need goal, they missed another shot on goal.
Aminuteinto play resuming, Dyke kicked along goal for the Wildcats.
Agoal from TTU's Riley Denovan reduced the margin to five points.
Michaelides sent the ball to an unguarded Michael Stockdale, whoran into an open goal to restore Woodside's 10-point lead midway through the third term.
Albanese kicked agoal to lift the Bombers,who trailedbyfivepoints with aquarter remaining in what had become an arm wrestle.
In the opening minutes of the fourth quarter, Brouns gathered the ball from
Dooley, 14th VincentPowell
Saturday, 13 September 2025 WOMEN'S SATURDAY OPEN Stableford
Grade AWinners: Elliot, Christine (24) 32
MORWELL
Women's Wednesday10th September 2025 Stableford
Winner: APollutro33
DTL: CPeter 31
NTP: 2nd Lvan Rooy 11th APollutro1th J
Griffiths
Birdies: IYoshimura
TRAFALGAR
WednesdayWomen's results 6/9/2025 and 10/9/25
Monthly Medal Strokeand Putting(Multi day): with 16 18-hole players and 79-hole players
Friday, September 12th, Open Men’s& Ladies Stableford
AGrade Winner: Dwayne Jenkins 40 pts
BGrade Winner: Hasi Wijesinghe 36 pts
DTL's: David McCann 39, Russell Dent 38, RobertChilver38, Tony Gray 37,Tim Ford 36, SteveClark 36, NickRowe35, John
Foattook another strongmarkon the wing. This lead to the ball getting to Joh Fythe, whose goal in the 27th minute essentiallysealed the winfor the Wildcats.
That goalallowedthe Wildcats, and their supporters, to settle, knowing the premiership was in their keeping.
Having waited forthe ultimate success after joiningthe NorthGippsland league for the 2008 season, the Wildcats have done it in back-to-back seasons. For the Bombers, it is acaseofwondering what might have been. Having dominated the past three seasons, and making the Grand Final in each, seeing areturn of one premiership.
Backtoback: Woodsidewas again toostrong forTTU on North Gippsland Grand Finalday Photograph: David Braithwaite
Netball premiers shine on stage
Back-to-back: 17 and underpremier,Boolarra.
Mid Gippsland Grand Final scoreboard
AGRADE: MDU 55 def Foster 41 Best on court: KirraJones (MDU).
BGRADE: Fish Creek 61 def Foster 50. Best on court: Grace Berryman (Fish Creek).
CGRADE: MDU 42 def Yinnar 25. Best on court: TeganRenden (MDU).
DGRADE: Yinnar 29 def Mirboo North 21
Best on court: Abby Walsh (Yinnar).
17 AND UNDER: Boolarra50def MDU 37 Best on court: Aleeah Munnich (Boolarra). 15 AND UNDER: Toora24def Yinnar 22. Best on court: Tess Hollier (Toora). 13 AND UNDER: Yinnar 28 def Newborough 13 Best on court: Eleanor Benson (Yin).
42 —The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 17 September, 2025
Canter: Meeniyan DumbalkUnitedwon the Mid Gippsland AGrade netball premiership with ease. The Demonshavewon thelasttwo AGrade flagswithout the doublechance
Photograph supplied
Credit: Meeniyan Dumbalk United wonthe CGrade flag
Top: 15 and under premier,Toora. Photographs: BlakeMetcalf-Holt unless stated
Junior stars: Yinnar wonthe 13 and Under premiership in MidGippsland netball.
Junior pups bite way to flag
FOOTBALL MIDGIPPSLAND
BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT
THEY came out snarling and ended up grinning. Newborough Under 18s beganthe MidGippsland Football-Netball League Grand Final with athrilling finish.
The young Bulldogs claimed the thirds premiershipoverMeeniyanDumbalkUnited by three points, 9.12 (66) to 9.9 (62), capping abrilliant return to form in the junior grade.
The two sides played each other three times previouslythis season, all resulting in margins under nine points in favour of Newborough.
The Bulldogs controlledthe game throughout, and
held a28-point lead heading into the finalquarter.
Supportersand thoseonthe bench heldtheir breath,asthe Demons came storminghome, bootingthe last five goals to almost pip back-to-back thirds flags.
The Rod Lucas Best on Ground Medal was presented to Newborough vice-skipper Harry Gallagher,while theAFL Victoria Medalwas awarded to teammate Mac Brosnan.
Winning captain Zach Daley and coach Rod Peatey made their way to the dais to throwthe premiershipcup high,withthe rest of the side running in.
Peatey acknowledged that this was athree-year journey for the group,taking them back to the mountaintop.
After many years as apowerhouse in juniors, Newborough hadn’t saluted in the under 18s since 2017.
They’d previously won 13 thirds and fourths flags before that, dating back to 2000.
In his first year as thirds coach, Peatey brought awealth of experience to the kids, with time spent on Frankston’s VFL Reserves list and years at Moe,Morwell, Traralgon and Thorpdaleduring his playing days.
Thesidehad aplethoraoftalent, with ahandful returning come finals after amajority of the year in the seniors.
Due to both open-age sides struggling for numbers thanks to injuries and the like, the Bulldogs exposed their juniors to the top level all season long.
This is alsoaward for that, with the club suffering
Shameful controversy overshadows Omeo decider
FOOTBALL/NETBALL
OMEO DISTRICT BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLTAND LIAM DURKIN
Warning: This story contains elements Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people may find distressing.
THE first batch of Gippsland football netball grand finals has been muddied with controversy.
Following the Omeo District Football-Netball League Grand Final, which took place Saturday, September 6atSwifts Creek Recreation Reserve, the leaguewas made aware of offensive videos shared online.
Omeo-Benambra defeated minor premier Swan Reach by two points in the senior football decider. Two videos surfaced, with the first from OmeoBenambra’s post-grandfinalcelebrations later that night.
The secondwas allegedly takenduringOmeo District FNL’s NAIDOC Round, which took place during Round 11 (July 5).
The alleged videos in question have been seen by the Express One shows an Omeo-Benambraplayer appearing to perform amock Indigenous dance after singing the club song during premiership celebrations. The other shows agroup mingled around ashed potbelly, sarcastically chanting and clapping bits of timber together.
The AFL is investigatingthe situation under Section 10, Vilification and Discrimination (Peek Rule) of the National Community Football Policy Handbook.
Omeo-Benambra FNC issued astatement last Friday (September 12), acknowledging the “hurt and distress” in the Indigenous community.
“(We) extend agenuine and wholehearted apology to anyone who hasbeendisrespected, upset,or impacted by these actions,” the statement read.
“The relevant conductdoes not align with the standards the club expects of its players, nor the values of the club at large. Behaviour of this nature is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated.
“We wish to emphasise that these incidents were not endorsed or encouraged by the club.
“The Omeo Benambra Football Netball Club does not tolerate racist or offensive conduct and is committed to creatinganenvironmentofequality, sportsmanship, and inclusivity.”
The clubadded thatthey are also taking internal action, with additional disciplinary measures for the individuals.
The Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and Traditional Owner Groups, comprising of key regional Indigenous groupsand services, helda meeting last Thursday (September 11).
“Over the local football grandfinalweekend, avideo that allegedly targeted and degraded Aboriginal people in away that was offensive and
harmful was shared on social media,” ashared statement read.
“These actions caused real harm and reinforced the ongoing discriminationexperienced by First Nations Peoples.
“While the behaviour appears to have involved only afew individuals, the impact has been widespread.Targeting and degrading Aboriginal people in this way is deeply offensive, harmful, and will never be tolerated.
“This has caused hurt and ager. We encouraged community members to support one another. Healing will come through unity, respect, and culturally safe, community-led supports.”
State Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said the allegations demanded full investigation.
“Racism is never acceptable and has no place in our community and Ihave contacted the AFL to support the investigation, which now must take its course,” he said.
“The fact we have had an incident reported is disappointing after such agreat day of community sport.
“Racism stops with us, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure it is never tolerated.”
Omeo District FNL had previously been in the spotlight, having cancelledSwanReach’s final home-and-awaymatch against Bruthen (where they split points) due to a“community issue” which had safety concerns for players and spectators.
atough year higher up, the future is beaming at The Kennel.
The gameitself was also areward, with Mid Gippsland making an effort to focus heavily on its sole junior football competition enteringthis season. Due to mountains of work donebyall clubs involved and leaguejuniordevelopmentofficer, Ken Hutchinson, the thirds had its most teams competingsince 2017 (discounting the incomplete 2021 season).
Bloods buried on home deck
FOOTBALL
ELLINBANK DISTRICT BY LIAM DURKIN
FORMER Mid Gippsland club, Trafalgar lost its Grand Final at the weekend.
The Bloods,who movedfromMid Gippsland to the Ellinbank District FootballNetball League in 2021, were no match for Neerim Neerim South in the decider. Trafalgarwas never really in the hunt, and lost 11.11 (77) to 3.8 (26).
The Bloods did not manage agoal until the final term, at whichstage the gamewas beyond doubt.
Nevertheless, it was ahugeday forthe club, who hosted the Grand Final and had three teams competing (seniors, reserves and CGrade netball).
It was the first time Trafalgar Recreation Reserve hosted aGrand Final since 1953.
The Bloods maywell have run out of petrol tickets by the time the Grand Final rolled around-winning the first semi-finalinextra time just to progress one week further. They also came up against avery strong Neerim Neerim South side, who finished twogamesclear on top of the ladder and went through undefeated.
The Cats boasteda host of Gippsland League-qualityplayers,including Kody Wilson, who played for Traralgon and was also reportedly previously sounded out for the Churchill coaching job.
Also in the Neerim Neerim South line-up was Tyler Pratt, who returned after two years with Moe, including senior finals, and Will Papley, brother of Sydney player Tom, who has played at VFLlevel.
Such was the Cats' dominance, century goal-kicker MasonMcGarrity was understood to consider amove back to Warragul Industrials midseason such was the disparity between the top and bottom teams. The Ellinbank competition wasamong the most lopsided in the state this season. The topfourteams allwon 13 or more games, while the last finals spot was occupied by a team that finished four wins behind.
The bottom four teams fought gamely each week,but all endedthe seasonwith apercentage less than 50.
Whenaskedfor acomparison, one welltravelled local footballerbelieved Mid Gippsland battlers, Hill End would have little trouble beating the bottom four teams in Ellinbank.
One more: Newborough thirds coach RodPeatey addresses histroopsaheadofthe last quarterof the Grand Final. Photographs: BlakeMetcalf-Holt
Mitts: AFL Victoria Best on Ground medallist, Mac Brosnan takesasweet grab.
Pure joy: Newborough thirds captain Zach Daleyand coach RodPeatey raisethe premiership cup
Woof: Newborough wonthe Mid GippslandFootball-Netball League thirds (under 18s) premiership
Maroons march into decider
FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE
BY LIAM DURKIN
RINSE and repeat.
Traralgonset up aGrand Final rematch with Leongatha after defeating Moe in the Gippsland League preliminary final.
The Maroons progressed courtesyofa13.16(94) to 8.13 (61)victory,sending them to asecondstraight decider,whilecondemning the Lionsto another shortfall.
In summary, Traralgon was methodically effective and the Lions mercilessly picked apart.
While a33-point margin often suggests the game was close untilsuchtime when one team
kicked away, this was certainly not the case at the weekend.
Traralgon led by 20 points at quarter time, and Moe hardly ever looked like hitting the leadatany stage thereafter.
Kickingfive goalsinthe first term toward the entrance at Sale Oval, the Maroons’ domination of centre clearance sent early alarm bells ringing in the Lions camp.
Arockhard Sale Oval trackthat justabout wore the stops out of every player perhaps suited Traralgon’s run and gun style, but it wasn’t the sole reason (no pun intended) the Maroons won most facets of the game.
Moe had its turn with an easterly breeze favouring the entrance end, kicking four goals in the second term to make it aseven-point ballgame at the main break.
Even then however one sensed the Lions would need much to go right if they were to overhaul
Traralgon, who playedsmartly to extendthe margin to 19 points with aquarter to spare.
Moe never truly looked like winning in the last, as athree goal to one final term played out.
Traralgon playing-assistant, Dylan Loprese was mighty up forward, kicking threegoals and having asay in others.
The Maroons had nine individual goal-kickers by the third quarter alone, continuing astrong trend of the season.
Moe’s ploy to tag Luis D’Angelo lasted all of five minutes, and he provided constant drive working in tandem with Liam Willatonand Jordan Cunico Sam Hallyburton played arguablyhis best final, kickingtwo goals, while Hugh Dunbar was again prominent in afinal against Moe.
Moe meanwhile did not name any players in the best -aperhaps appropriate sentiment. It would havebeen very hardtolista top six wearing amaroon and blue jumper.
The Lions broughtinone Baldi for another,with Riley replacing twin brother Trent, who missed with abroken jaw sustained after aheavy collision with Morwell’s Anthony Rosato in the first semi-final.
Riley was available ‘thanks’ to his VFL club, Casey losing its final.
Had the Lions progressed, they would have also
Go Maroons
had all their Gippsland Power players available for the GrandFinalafter Power’s season was cut short. That luxury howevernow lies with Traralgon, who couldbring in excitementmachine and Victoria Country representative, Marlon Neocleous for the biggame.
TheGrand Final is looming as an eerily similar affair to last season, with the Maroons coming in via the preliminary final.
Unlike last year however, Traralgon won’t be ragingunderdogs,and will have afull complement to choose from given its reserves are also in.
Some good stories are also in the works, notably rebounding defender Joel Scholtes, who missed last year’s premiership due to injury, and was looking unlikely to get back on the park this season.
Leongatha comes into an unbelievable ninth consecutive Grand Final, and will want to create afeel-good story of itsown for favourite son, Dyson Heppell.
The former Essendon captain just made the four-game qualification for his home club, having spent the season with VFL club Port Melbourne.
Speaking facetiously, he now has the chance to do something it doesn’t look like Essendon is going to do any time soon.
While manythought thisseason would be the year Leongatha finally dropped off, the Parrots have shown just how finely tuned afootball machinethey are, devisinga game plantosuit its ageing list.
Knowing it can no longer blow quality teams off the park, Leongatha now simply aims to have the most watertight defence in the competition.
The Parrots were the only team to concede less than 1000 points during the home-and-away season, all the while only averaging around 10 goals agameagainst fellow top-threesides Traralgon and Moe.
It's worked in three out of five games Leongatha has played against the Maroonsand Lions this season.
Despite veterans Tom Marriott, Cade Maskell and Sean Westaway all getting ayear older, and missinglarge chunks of the season, their finals experience has to count for agreat deal come Saturday.
Aclub like Leongatha doesn’t take losing grand finals well, and even as far back as the league launch, one could tell last year's result really galled Parrots coach, Trent McKicking when he spoke. Traralgon can therefore expect afierce battle as it attempts to claim its first back-to-back title this century.
The Maroons have avery good record in grand finals, losing just once from its last five starts, and more often thannot, discount regular season form and go to another level whenthereisapremiership on the line. Traralgon will have undoubtedlylearnt
agreat dealfrom its semi-final defeat to Leongatha, and despite what transpired, were only ahandful of points behind at three quarter time.
One expects aGrand Final to be even tighter, although just if the Maroons’ explosivestyle collides negatively with Leongatha’s suffocation tactic adds to the intrigue.
For Moe, its most recent finals performance was again another disappointing performance.
The Lions have now lost three consecutive preliminary finals, and four in fivecompletedseasons.
The October period before preseason will surely look to address why the same thing keeps happening, as playing/coach LeighPoholke heads into his second year at the helm.
Poholkeisonrecord as saying this year’s Moe team was the best football side he’s ever seen, which therefore wouldinclude teamsfrom his home in thehighlytouted Mornington Peninsula league.
So, either the GippslandLeague is astronger competition than it’s given credit for, or Leongatha and Traralgon would be top two in Mornington.
The Lions possibly peaked way too early,and had an eight-one win/lossrecordatthe halfway mark of the season after beating predicted finalists Wonthaggi by 67 points.
Had the Grand Final been played then, Moe may well have won by 10 goals.
But it’s not- the Grand Final is this weekend, and the Lions will again be forced to watch on.
Yeah baby: Traralgon’s Dylan Loprese celebrates afinal quar tergoal during the GippslandLeague Preliminary Final. Photograph: Gippsland League
Hat-trick hopefuls
NETBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE
BY LIAM DURKIN
WE'VE got arematch.
Moe advanced to its third successive Gippsland League AGrade netball Grand Final, after rolling past Morwell in Saturday’s preliminary final.
Scorching temperatureswerenot just reserved to the elements, with the Lions turning up the heat with an irresistible second half to win 75 to 53.
The Tigers held firmupuntil the main break, and were only six goals down until the minor premier broke away.
Moe vice-captain,Macy Gardiner was outstandingfor the winners, while Holly Stephens, Tanya Budge andHayleyStringer putinsolid efforts for Morwell.
Some have arguably even gone to another level in the last 12 months.
Playing/coach AlexMoody (who reportedly battled illness heading into the semi-final) appears more powerful than ever, while younger sister Georgia was thisyearnamedMVP for her VictorianNetball League club, North East Blaze.
Key defender Olivia Barnett and goal shooter Ash Mawer know what big finals are all about, having played in this year’s VNL Championship decider with Hawks.
They will come up against VNL teammate and league MVP, Sienna Green playing for Warragul. Mawer has come into the side this season, allowing Ramayer Keilty to move back to her natural habitat in defence.
Keilty’slikely match-up with towering Warragul shooter, EmmaRyde looms as the game’s deciding factor.
The result was perhaps reflective of the season holistically, with the Tigersaclear third on the home-an d-away ladd er from the now grand finalists.
As it is, the two best teams, Moe and Warragul, will battle it out for the silverware.
The Gulls took adirect path to the Grand Final after beating the Lions in the second semi-final a fortnight ago.
Moe should be smarting from the performance, in what was its first loss for the season.
Despite the result, the Lions might have afew things working in its favour heading into the big dance.
The week off can often disrupt momentum, and Moe will take confidencefromthe fact it had to come via the preliminary final last season on its way to the premiership.
While no loss is everwelcomed, defeatinthe second semi-final might also turn out to be a blessing in disguise.
Having gone into that final undefeated, it would have only been natural for players’ minds to wonder about thepossibility of beingcrowned premiers and champions.
Thatpressureisnow gone,and Moe needs to simply win agame of netball this Saturday.
The Lions have no shortage of quality, with its AGrade side virtually astate-level quality team, with players at just about the peak of their powers as well.
Keilty will need support from further up the court to keep the ball out of Ryde’s hands, as it is just about aformality the Gulls will score the moment she takes ashot.
Thoselooking to assist the defence will be mid-courters, Hollie Bugeja (a VNL clubmate of Keilty’s),vice-captain Macy Gardiner,Jordan Pyle and Charlize Bird, who played her 100th AGrade game during the season.
Bugeja and Pyle have giventhe club outstanding service off the court this season, assisting as game day trainers for boththe footballers and netballers
The return of Pyle has also been timely, after she
missed virtually the first two-thirds of the season due to basketball commitmentswith NBL1 side Nunawading Spectres.
Birdand Georgia Moody are chasinganincredible fourth AGrade premiership for Moe, having played in the breakthrough triumph of 2018, followed by the last two seasons. Close to the actionfor all of them has been Peter Moody. The coach of the 2018 flag probably didn’t envisage being on the side-lines all these years later, but he has been assistant coach to daughter Alex in her first season calling the shots. His fear that 2018 would turn out to be afluke has certainly
Moe player profiles
Coach: AlexMoody
MacyGardiner: Aversatile playerwith a high work rate,relentless in her defence and fast-paced in attack.Vice captain.
AlexMoody: Captain/coach. Powerful athlete able to use her body andspeed acrossthe cour t with pinpoint accuracy.
Ashlea Mawer: Recruit of the season. Six time league MVP in Tasmanian premier netball who has shot close to 900 goals this season.
RamayerKeilty: Ex-coach and one of the premier players in the game.She is an asset on and offthe cour twith her extensiveknowledge
Olivia Barnett: Personification of high energy Olivia is one of the cleanest defendersinthe league with an impressivesuccess rate,creating significant turnovers on cour t.
Hollie Bugeja: Always smiling.Hollie’s work rate sets her apar tfromopponents.She sets the pace and challenges everyone to keep up
Georgia Moody: Her speed and accuracy will be second-to-none inher hunt forafour th Gippsland League premiership.MVP with VNL club Nor th East Blazethisseason.
CharlizeBird: Seasoned campaigner with more than100 games already under her belt. Youwill find Charlize in everycontest and will have afly at everyballshe can get her hands on.
Jordan Pyle: An outstanding defender with amazing athletic ability. Competitivethrough the airand on the drive.
Historybeckons: Moe will be aiming to win itsthird consecutive GippslandLeague AGrade premiership thisweekend. TheLionshavevir tuallythe sameteam as last year,with just one change to theroster
One season finishes, another starts
FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE
BY LIAM DURKIN
THE worst kept secret in local footy was confirmed lastweek, with Warragulofficiallyannouncing favourite son Gary Ayres as its new senior coach. Ayres returns homeonatwo-yeardeal, replacing Jed Lamb, in what would havetobethe biggest appointmentthe league has ever seen.
Speculation wasrife the two-timeNorm Smith medallist would coach Warragul, following his departure from city-based club Montrose.
Prior to that, Ayres coachedVFL club Port Melbourne to two premierships, and AFL clubs
Geelongand Adelaide across more than 200 games
His attendance at Warragul's elimination final against Morwell all but confirmed what most people suspected.
The Morwell coaching jobmeanwhile wasstill not confirmedwhenthe Express went to print Monday evening.
The Tigers have remained incredibly tight-lipped about BoydBailey's successor -afeat in itself given how quickly news travels in the modern world.
It is understood less than six people know who will coach Morwell next season.
Elsewhere, Maffra senior games record holder, Daniel Bedggood will coach Heyfield next season.
Photographs supplied
The Eagles' premiership captain takesoverfrom Leigh Brown, whotookthe team to preliminary finals in 2023 and 2025.
Bedggood is expected to bring afew of Maffra's older players across with him, while not decimating the Eagles,who have some quality juniors coming through.
Talk of 'Bedggy' leaving Maffra has done the rounds previously, especially after his brother, Sam, was appointed coach of Boisdale-Briagolong.
Gippsland League award winners will be featured in next week's issue. It's all about the teams on Grand Final week.
Gippsland League GF Traralgonteams
Seniors
Coach:
1.
2.
4.
6.
Fourths
Coach:
16.Chaz Siemens 17.Will Walker
18.Fletcher Adams 19.Tyler Siemens 20. Oscar Wilkings 21.Will Donald
Jay Bloomfield 23. Hayden Conbeer
BrodyStevenson 25. Harper Connolly 26. Lucas Nichols 27.FordGore
28. Brodie Adams 29. Quinn Ross 30. Will Hamilton
31.Kaiden McNamara
32. Jack Thomas 33. JakobScott
34. Olando Clifton
Heartbreak for Gippsland Power
This followed Power’s miraculous win in the quarter final over Geelong Falcons, winning 8.11 (59) to 7.9 (51) at Shepley Oval, Dandenong.
JUST 10 pointsaway from Gippsland Power’s first Grand Final in 13 years.
The Power Boys went down to Sandringham Dragons, 11.9 (75) to 9.11 (65) at Casey Fields on Saturday in the Coates Talent League Preliminary Final.
Aslowopening quarter forced Power to chase all day, and they couldn’t quite get there, despite avaliant final effort.
Moe’s Max Woodall kicked agoal in defeat.
The Gippsland side gained their first lead all day in the last two minutes of the do-or-die clash, including trailing by four goals to nothing at the end of the first quarter.
Maffra’s Zach O’Keefe snapped from around the corner to seePower hit the front, beforepotential AFL Number 1draft pick, Foster’s Willem Duursma booted the sealer shortly after.
Moe’s Luke Chefferswas amenace withagamehigh 13 tackles, while Lions teammateand Power skipperTom Matthews kicked agoal.
GIPPSLAND Power Girls had their season cut short three weeks prior, falling to Murray Bushrangers in the quarter finals, 11.5 (71) to 8.4 (52) at Shepley Oval.
After being bested in the first half, Power Girls booted five goals in the third term to move ahead by 11 points with aquarter spare.
Unfortunately, they equally gave up six goals through to the end of the game, which saw their season over.
The Traralgon pairing of Ella Stoddart (12 disposals and agoal) and Lily Milner (19 touches and six tackles) each played well.
GIPPSLAND LEAGUE GRAND FINAL
Saturday, September 20 at Morwell Recreation Reserve
FOOTBALL
Seniors: Leongatha vs Traralgon (2.30pm)
Reserves: TraralgonvsLeongatha (12.30pm) Thirds: MaffravsLeongatha (10.30am) Fourths: Traralgon vs Maffra(8.30am)
NETBALL
AGrade: Warragul vs Moe (3pm)
BGrade: Leongatha vs Wonthaggi (1.30pm)
CGrade: Morwell vs Wonthaggi (12.15pm)
17 andUnder: Bairnsdale vs Leongatha (11am)
15 andUnder: Traralgon vs Sale (9.45am) 13 andUnder: Sale vs Leongatha (8.30am)
GIPPSLAND LEAGUE GRAND FINAL
ENTRYAND PARKING
n Gates open: 7am
n NO OVERNIGHT PARKING
ENTRYPOINTS
TraversStreet (main gate) Open from 7am.
n Main public entry: staffedwithticket sellersand gatekeepers. No parking along TraversSt.
n Drop-offzone: available inside the gate, exit via Keegan St after9am
n Keegan St gate: (behind netball rooms) Opens 9am. Pedestrian entryand exit gate.Noparkingalong Keegan St (residential access required). Aherin St gate(behind clubrooms): n Pedestrian entryfrom9am.
n Drop-offonly(no parking): Delivery access 7am to 9am.
n Maryvale/Gippsland Powergate: Pedestrian entryfrom9am. Drop-off point only. Busdropoff point with turning circle at the end of the road.
n No parking on Maryvale Crescent. Umpires/officials parking access only.
PARKING
n Limited on-siteparking: in designated areas only. No reservedparking
n No parking zones: around Travers, Keegan, Aherin and Maryvale streets
n Pedestrian priority areas: inside the ground -novehicle access around the oval/clubroom/grandstand side
Huge: Two-time NormSmith medallist, Gar y Ayreshas returned home to coach Warragul.
Confirmed: NewHeyfieldcoach, Daniel Bedggood.
Churchill claims netball thriller
North Gippsland FNL
BY
Q1: Sale City9-Churchill 8
Q2: Churchill 20 -Sale City17
Q3: Churchill 26 -Sale City25
Q4: Churchill 35 -Sale City33
GOAL SCORERS
Churchill: Skye McDonald 25, Samantha Cullis 10
Sale City: Charlotte Ronchi 23, Madeleine Rodwell 10
Best on court: Skye McDonald (Churchill)
NORTH GIPPSLAND BY ERIKA ALLEN
IT doesn't get much better than winning a flag on your home court.
Churchill is the 2025 North Gippsland Football-Netball League AGrade premier.
The Cougars edged out reigning champion Sale City 35 to 33 in athrilling Grand Final at Gaskin Park on Saturday.
The match pitted this season’s minor premier against last year’s flag winners in what became afierce battleofchampions. Churchill had beatenSale City twice already this season -inRound 9byasinglegoal and again in the second semi-final, 32-29. But both contests proved how little separated the sides.
Saturday’s decider was no different.
Churchill’s Skye McDonald deservedly earned best-on-court honours, shooting a game-high 25 goals to lift the Cougars at crucial moments. The charismatic goal attack fired up the crowd while encouraging her teammates- proof of the faith between teammates as they rallied around impressive performances throughout the game.
As the first bell echoedacross the court, Sale City, minus injured midcourt starIndigo Waugh, got off to asharp start. Charlotte Ronchi and goal shooter Madeleine Rodwell converted goals cleanly off the back of quick feeds from captain Chai Murrin and centre Isla McCarthy. The Bulldogs looked slick as they played their trademark lightning-fast game to take anarrow nine-to-eight goal lead at quarter time, as their conversions came more easily than Churchill’s.
The Cougars respondedinthe second quarter through calm finishing from goal attack McDonald, who nailed five of the first six goals. With McDonald and goal shooter Samantha Cullis brimming withconfidence, playing-coach Rachael Kearns orchestrated play from the top of the circle, feeding with precision. The Cougars’ shooters combined from long range to shift momentum, and by halftime, they held a20-17 lead.
Churchillextended theiradvantage in the third termwith clean passages starting in defence. Goal keeper Samantha Mann linked with Courtney Risol-Stevens and captain Emily Lugton to move the ball swiftly from defence through the midcourt. At the other end, Cullis worked beautifully with Kearns offafeed in, split-stepping in front of Sale City defender Ciara Fitt and converting. The Cougars pushedsix goals clear and appeared to be in control.
But the Bulldogs were never going to lie down.With alittle more than six minutes left in the thirdquarter, Cullis’ goal proved to be Churchill’s last for the term. Rodwell stepped out of the circle to add another attacking option whileRonchiworked tirelesslyfor the front positionagainst Risol-Stevens. A perfectly struck long-range goal sparked a run of five unanswered goals for Sale City. WithMurrinproducing aspectacularleaping save on the sideline to keep the ball alive, the Bulldogs clawed their way back to trail by just one goal, 26-25, at the final change. Sale City drewlevelimmediately in the last quarter through Ronchi, lifting the Bulldogs’ supportersattheir scoringend. But Churchill broke the momentum. McDonald worked around defender Simone Turner to receive bouncepassesfromwing attackTayla Cheffers and Kearns. The goal attack found space at the top of the circle and converted confidently. Another Ronchi goal tied the scores again at 27 apiece, but McDonald then stole the show.
The Churchillsharpshooterrattled off
four unansweredgoals,celebrating each conversion as the Cougars’ crowd roared. Lugton, with aclutch turnover in defence, set up another scoring opportunity, and suddenly Churchill led by fourwitheight minutes to play. Ronchi and Rodwell fought back, reducing the margin with composed conversions. However, the Cougars used the clockcleverly as time ticked away, cycling possessions between their goal and centre thirds to control the tempo. Sale Citycouldnot find anotherdecisive turnover. Despite Rodwell netting in the final minute, it was Churchill that closed out the game, sealing atwo-goal
victory as jubilant players formed atight huddleand supporters rushed to throwtheir arms around the squad.
For Sale City, Ronchi was outstanding in attack,addingtoabrilliant seasonthatsaw herearnNGFNL AGrade Team of theYear honours, while defenders Fitt and Turner were relentless under pressure. The Bulldogs’ premiership defence ended gallantly, but the day ultimately belongedto Churchill. TheCougars’ combination of calm shooting, defensivegritand timely turnovers ensured that the minor premiers finished the year as the 2025 premiers.
HARRIET SHING MP
Superstar: Churchill’sSkyeMcDonald accepts best-on-cour t honoursfromJamie Aitken, representing league sponsor AGL.
That’s howit’sdone: Churchill playersare overjoyedafter winning the Nor th Gippsland AGrade premiership
Uncorked: Thechampagne is popped to officiallycommence celebrations
Packedhouse: AGrade
Heyfield wins thirds after scoreboard gaffe
FOOTBALL
NORTH GIPPSLAND
BY DAVID BRAITHWAITE
THE most drama on North Gippsland GrandFinal day came in the thirds, with Heyfield upsetting the previously undefeated Churchill in extra time.
Brandon Manson had the chance to put Heyfield in front with alatekick, only for the ball to just go the wrong side of the goal post.
The final siren went, with the scoreboard having Churchill in front by apoint, sparkingcelebrations by the Cougar faithful on the ground.
However, the celebrationswere tempered by the umpires indicated the point kickedbyManson had in fact levelled the scores.
After the officials checked, and double-checked their scorecards, it was confirmed the scores were level. Apoint was incorrectly added on the scoreboardtoChurchill's total during the final quarter.
Afterthe ground wascleared of supporters, the players and umpires were able to resume the match for extra time.
Phoenix Cox, who was named the best player of the Grand Final, kicked his third goal for the day to give the Kangaroos the lead.
Heyfield had the momentum, and it was helped when CougarJames Hutchinson was shown ayellow card for an off the ball incident. The Kangaroos now had aplayer advantage.
However, it was the Cougars who kicked the
Lunchtime legends: TTUsecured itsthird reser vespremiership in four seasons Photographs: David Braithwaite
next goal through Jye Williams, one of his three for the day, cutting the deficit to three points at the halfwaymarkofextra time (fiveminutes each way).
The Kangaroos kicked the first two goals of the second extra period, and the game was all-but
Stranger thanfiction: Heyfieldwon thethirds premiership in extratime.Despair quickly turned to joyafter the scoreboardshowedaone-point loss,onlyfor amistaketobefound.
theirs. AlateChurchill goal cut the margin to 10 points, but Heyfield took out the Grand Final 15.10 (100) to 12.18 (90).
Earlier, the Kangaroos led by six pointsafter kicking three goals to two in the first quarter.
The Cougarsappearedtotakecontrol duringthe secondterm, kicking four goalstoone.The Cougars also kicked seven behinds, which became telling at theend of the match.
Churchillkicked 3.5 (23),while theKangaroos kick ed 4.1 (25 )t ot rai lb y1 7p oi nts at three-quarter-time.
The persistentKangaroos refused to go away, and kicked fourgoals to one in the final term to send the match into extratime. The Kangaroos maintained their strong final quarter form during extraperiods to claim the premiership.
In addition to Cox,Archie Brooker, Blake Lindrea (four goals), Beau McDiarmid, Luke Dwyer and Mac Birss stood out for Heyfield.
Churchill's best players were Williams, Jye Reyke, Goy Ruey, Daniel Tobin (four goals), Max Grimes and Cooper Harris.
TRARALGON-Tyers United had better fortune than its seniors, winning the reserves Grand Final, defeating Woodside by 34 points.
The Bombers kicked fourunanswered goalsinthe firstterm to set-up their 9.9(63) to 4.5 (29) victory. Riley Payne was voted best-on-ground by the umpires, with Dylan Mclure, Josh Twite, Brady Poel (five goals), Nick Rutter and Josh Segond also prominent for TTU.
The Wil dc at s' to pp er fo rmer sw ere Josh Scott, Josh Kennedy, Darcy McAlpine, Nathan Tourtoulas, Jack Scott and Alex Walpole.
North Gippsland netball premiers 2025
Unreal: Churchill held on to win athrilling DGrade decider Photograph supplied
Bridging success: TTUadded theCGrade flag to its clubhousecollection.
Whichside: Woodside celebrates afterwinning the Nor th Gippsland BGrade netball premiership We didit: TTU took outthe 17 and Underpremiership
Yes: Sale Citywon the 15 and Undertitle Photographs: David Braithwaiteunless stated
Sun always rises in the east
FOOTBALL
MID GIPPSLAND
BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT
IT still means ahell of alot.
Morwell Eastbroughthome itsfirst football flag in 14 years, winning the Mid Gippsland FootballNetball LeagueReserves Grand Final by 16 points over Yinnar.
Despite the home ground advantage for the Magpies, the brown and gold couldn’t be topped, reversing agoalless first quarter to run past clear victors 5.11 (41) to 3.7 (25).
Hawks supporters came out in full force for the secondsgame, with many senior footballers, netballers, family and friends racing out onto the oval once the final siren sounded.
To accompany the jubilation and glee of the result, it was also seen beyond that.
Morwell East onlooker was even seen wiping
back tears watching the mass gathering from the side lines, exclaiming “finally!”
The crowd mauled the trophy presentations, once again reinforcingthe community dyingfor success and so happy for their boys.
Brad Atkinson was awarded the Trevor Caldow best-on-ground Medal, while Hawks legend and Mid Gippsland lifemember Charlie Cauchi did the honours of presenting the premiership cup to reserves coach, Ben Marks.
Given how Morwell East seniors slumped this season to awooden spoon after returning to finals last year, Marks made certain to shoot down any notionsthatplayers fluctuating between grades somehow lessened its value.
Outgoing senior coach, PaulHenry even got in on the celebrationsasreserves full forward on the day.
Having served many years at thehelm for the Hawks, premiership glory at any level is something any footballer would welcome.
One
Hawk talk: Morwell East came marchinghome to win thereser vespremiership
Well deserved: Long-time Morwell East senior coach Paul Henr ytasted success in the reser vesGrand Finalwith the Hawks Well earnt: Morwell East players stand proudlyafter theirwinning result.
Flaunt it: Morwell Eastreser vespremiership players KalebChapman, IzayahTerrick, Cooper Silver and Dustin Heyden.
Respect: Morwell EastFootball-Netball Club legend Charlie Cauchi presents reser vescoach Ben Marks with the premiership cup
Great representation for thebig day
FOOTBALL/NETBALL MID GIPPSLAND BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT
THOSE who arrived at Yinnar Recreation Reserve for the Mid Gippsland Football-Netball League Grand Final were treated to aperfect day on the field and on the court.
In astark difference to last year’s decider held at Meeniyan RecReserve, which featured heavy rai nt hro ugh ou t, warm conditi ons led into a
slight overcast once the afternoon arrived. The deck was also pristine to say the least.
Yinnar hadn’t hosted aGrand Final since 2004, afterdoing so plenty of times before the turnof the century.
Perhaps it's best to keep the Mid Gippsland decider in the Latrobe Valley for more years to come?
Speaking of, the Valley had quite astrong representation, especially in the morning,with junior netball and football.
Magpies black and white, and Bulldogs red,white
and blue could be spotted everywhere to begin the day’s proceedings, with Yinnar and Newborough starting things off in the 13 and Under GrandFinal.
Boolarra then arrived for the 17 and Under decider, where the Demons have featured prominently in the last two years.
Duel identities did battle in the 17s and 15 and Under grand finals, with Toora and Yinnar Magpies, and Boolarra and MeeniyanDumbalk
United Demons facing off.
Morwell East and Yinnar matched up in the Reserves Grand Final, and to rival the home crowd,
the Hawks had quite the followingonce it was time for the lunchtime decider.
South Gippsland clubs were also heavily represented, with the reserves and 13s netball the only two gamesthat didn’t feature the newermembers of MidGippsland.
It would also be the first time that the Grand Final would not feature one of the traditional clubs in the main game.
Foster and FishCreekdoubledupinsenior football and BGrade netball, whilethe Tigersalso made the AGrade decider.
Foster secures Mid Gippsland premiership
FOOTBALL
MID GIPPSLAND BY ROP POPPLESTONE
FOSTER secured one of the more courageous premiershipvictories in the history of theMid Gippsland Football-Netball League at the weekend, defeating the more favoured Fish Creek by 11 points, 12.7 (79) to 9.14 (68).
The Kangaroos may have been chasing some rare air, searching for itsthird MidGippsland premiership in succession.
The threepeat has only ever beenachievedon three occasions in the history of the competition, (Hazelwood 1951-53, Yinnar 1969-71, and Newborough 1988-90), and for afew minutes of the latest Grand Final, it looked as though afourth was to be added.
The saying that you don't poke the Tiger was nevermore appropriate however. This Fosterteam hadbeen hit hard by alongand demanding season, some of its very best performers, looking helplessly fromthe sideline as their teammates battled to stop one of the most respected football teams in regional Australia.
Speculation wasrife pre-game thattalented
MID GIPPSLAND
GR AND FINAL
SENIORS
teenagerWillem Duursma, mightberushedfrom hisduties with Gippsland Power in Melbourne to represent his home town from the first quarter onwards.
Foster however didn't playDuursma, and the game started as every GrandFinal does, with intensity and purpose, physicality and enthusiasm.
Against the odds, the Tigers were composed as they snatched the first three goals of the day on the way to aquarter time lead of 17 points
The Kangaroos finally found goals through Jordan Shaw, for the first time nearly seven minutes into the second term, before that same player lashed out at his opposing defenderfollowinga missed opportunity for his second, resulting in his send off.
The reigning premier was now under pressure on the scoreboard and on the field.
The frustration teetered on panic, allowing Foster's Jake Best to get his second goal of the game as the Tigers took further advantage and a halftime lead of 26 points.
Both teams opened up the ground, allowingmore opportunity in the third quarter, but inaccuracy was costly for Fish Creek.
It wasn’t until the Kangaroos managed two goals
FOSTER 3.2 6.3 9.4 12.7 (79)
FISH CREEK 0.3 1.7 8.12 9.14 (68)
GOALS: Foster:LRathjen 4J Best 3JFlavelle2 JRathjen SChaseling MCooke. Fish Creek:T Cameron 2JShaw2 MMcGannon SMcGannon JStandfieldLGaleJStefani BEST: Foster: JTonerLRathjen CWrayA Nor tonJBest MCooke.Fish Creek:L Williams RDeBiase M McGannon TGavenlock JLamersJKenny RESER VES
deepinthe term thatyou sensed thecomeback was on, and so it was, the pendulum in full swing by the three quarter time break, with Fish Creek aheadbytwo points, having banged on seven goals
The Tiger team however delivered what coach Sam Davieswanted: plenty of stoppages, and finally agoal 10 minutes in that gave them back the lead.
From there, Foster fended off all other threats, and Davies happily accepting the premiership cup.
“What aday. We set ourselves really well hunting and applying elitepressure in the first half and importantlytook our chances," he said.
"They (Fish Creek) came out firing in the third and played some greatfooty like we knew they could.Credittothem for playingthatway too We panicked, but we needed repeat stoppages so we could set up behind the ball. It was time for controlled chaos in the last 25 minutes; we might have been out on our feet, but so were they.
"Boy oh boy did we show something in that last quarter. Couldn’t be prouder of the group and the achievement.
"Big moments, we got it done. Only one coach backed us in today from across the league and he has the medal around his neck.”
The Kangaroos had their chance, chances even, but inaccuracy played apart. Kangaroos coach, Jarrod Walker was disappointed but not totally despondent.
“A disappointing result for us but really proud of the effort all day," he said.
"Got jumped at the start and were always playing catchup. The third quartercomeback was reallyspecial to be apart of andIthought that momentum would get us through.
"We thought we would havethe legs to hang on in the last quarter but to Foster's credit they found another gear.
"A great Grand Final and agood standard of footy, beatenbythe better team on the day and better teamall season. CongratulationstoSam and Foster, deserving winners."
League best-and-fairest Angus Norton was awarded the Bill McConville Medal for beston0ground, while JoshToner identifiedbythe umpires as the AFL Victoria best-on-ground. Foster finding the top of the mountain, Fish Creeklosingnoadmirers in its attempt to dethrone this tough, honest Tiger team.
