Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 1 October 2025

SUNDAY Y 5OCTOBBER

Turn clocks forward 1hour

Crime debate deferred

By AIDAN KNIGHT

ALLAN C CUNNINGHAM

LATROBE City Council has once again circled the block on the question of how best to tackle antisocial behaviour in Morwell’s central business district, this time debating a new iteration of the Community Connectors Program under the banner of the CBD Community Outreach program.

The issue, first raised in the February meeting, has now been deferred twice, withcouncillors split between immediate investment in outreachand waiting on assurances from the state government.

The program, described by Councillor Steph Morgan as a“bespoke tailored outline for our community,” would allocate $30,000 from Council reserves to design alocalised outreach model. Officers propose placing trained workers at hotspots such as the Morwell Transit Hub to connect people with housing,healthand social services,addressing the root causes of poor behaviour rather than relying solely on policing.

The model is based on programs trialed successfully in Frankston and Dandenong, whereoutreach reduced antisocial behaviour and improved perceptions of safety. Council officers argued the same could help Morwell, which hasseen a15per cent rise in crimes againstthe person and property offences, anda38per cent increase in drug-related offences since 2019-20.

May's meeting saw the pushing back of the Connectors Program,with Cr Sharon Gibsonthe mostvocal thatpolicing is the best option, deferring the then proposed $50,000 (also pushed by Cr Morgan) to resource research for the program. Cr Gibson herself had met withthe Minister for Police, Anthony Carbines, with MayorDale Harriman and Latrobe City chief executive Steve Piasante.

During last week's meeting, Council remained divided on the issue, as Cr Morgan emphasised, “We can’t attack this problem just through policing alone,weneed acommunityminded approach to really address amultifaceted issue. There is no one answer.”

Cr Morgan said Councilrisked alienating residents and businesses who already felt “ignored” by repeated delays, warning Morwellcouldbeleft a“ghosttown” if inaction continued.

Cr Pugsley raised the point at the September meeting, on the outcome of the talks with the minister, to which Mr Piasante clarified that no promise was made. While the minister had indicated he was keen to visit Latrobe City for assessment, alongside the Police Commissioner, the recent events surrounding the manhuntinPorpunkah prevented discussion from going any further in that time. There was no exact date or definite confirmation they would indeed visit, meaning there is no promise Latrobe City Councilcan callonthe government to uphold, and no ballpark of when and if it will come to fruition.

"These things can take anumberofmonths," Mr Piasante stated when pressed for atimeframe for usual circumstances. The CEO also admitted that external organisations such as Anglicarealsohad not replied to Council on the matter.

Therehad been anecdotalobservations in the CBD that thebehaviour in question had been quieter in the winter months, although Council admitted the happenings seem to have just shiftedfromoutside to inside,suchasMorwell Library.

In fact, datareleased Thursday from the CrimeStatistics Agency shows criminal incidents in Latrobe rose by 10.3 per cent in the 12 months to June 2025 compared with the previous year. Moe recorded the sharpest increase, with offences climbing 26 per cent, following the Allan Labor Government’s decision to cut back operating hours at the town’s police station.

Continued page 5

Fatal stabbing in Morwell

PoliceBeat

with Aidan Knight

AN 18-year-old Morwell man died after an allegedmachete attack on the street of Morwell on Saturday night.

Identified as Kaiden Morgan,the young man was located by police on The Boulevard at 10.25pm, before being rushed to hospital, wherehelater perished due to his injuries. The same night, a Warragulman,aged 20, was also hospitalised after being found in asimilar state on Gillie Crescent, only afew blocks away. It wasnot reported whattimethe second man was found, only that it occurred after police came across Mr Morgan.

Two males were arrested Sundaynight in relation to the incident: a19-year-old from Traralgon, and a16-year-old whopolice have only described as having come from "the Latrobe area". The pair are in custody and being interviewed at the time the Express went to print.

Investigations are ongoing, and anyone who witnessed the incident, with dashcam/CCTV vision or information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit aconfidential report online at www.crimestoppers.vic.com.au.

Plaza pillaging

THE Churchill Plaza has seen better days, after being ram-raided Sunday night.

At about 10pm Sunday, several offenders in aHolden Cruze drovethrough the centre after gaining entryfromthe MarinaDrive side of the building. They thenattemptedunsuccessfully to gain access to asupermarket.

While the centre was not open for business there were supermarket staff working at the time, and the offenders fled the scene in the vehicle.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with dashcam/CCTV vision or information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit aconfidential report online at www.crimestoppers.vic.com.au

Fatal crash

POLICE will prepare areport for the Coroner following acrash in Sale on Sunday morning which the claimed the life of a22-year-old Heyfield man.

Acar was reportedlytravellingalong Aerodrome Road near RAAF Base East Sale when it crashed into atree.

The driver and sole occupant of the car died at the scene.

Action needed on crime: Cameron

Action is needed: Member forMorwell, Martin Cameron -pictured(right) withfriendand friends of AshGordon, who diedafter being stabbed during ahomeinvasion in 2024- has backeda plan that offers real solutions forthe statewide crime crisis Photograph supplied

STATE Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, has backed aLiberal-National plan that he claimed offered “realsolutions for the statewide crime crisis.”

In government, the Nationals promise will introduce the $100 million Safer Communities Plan to restore safety across Victoria.

While Mr Cameron claimed the Labor government had slashedyouth crime prevention funding from almost $13 million ayear between 2014-22 to $541,000 in each of the past three years, the Nationals have unveiled astrategy to make communities safe again.

The Safer Communities Plan will deliver tough new laws alongside practical prevention programs that will make adifference in every regional community.Itbuilds on the Break Bail, Face Jail policy,ensuring thereare consequences for all offenders.

The plan includes:

 Jack’s Law for Victoria: giving police the power to remove weapons from the streets;

 Restart: aVictorian-first residential responsibility and discipline program for serious and repeat offenders, and;

 Youthstart: co-ordinated community-based interventions to help at-risk young people make better choices.

Mr Cameron, who has advocated for crime and bail policy reform since he was elected to parliament in 2022, said the government had shown that it has no plan to address the crisis in Victoria.

“Victorians have had enough of this government’s soft approach on crime.Our plan prioritises the safety of communities over the rights of repeat offenders, something Labor has failed to do time and time again,” Mr Cameron said.

“Families deserve to feel safe in their homes, at the shops and on the streets. Our plan is about consequences for offenders, but also about giving young peoplethe support, discipline and hope they need to turn their lives around.

“We know the crime crisis is hitting hard in regional Victoria. Here in the Latrobe Valley, we now have the third-highest crime rate per capita in the state.

“While PremierAllan cuts prevention programs and oversees weak bail laws, “the Nationals and Liberals have aclear plan to restore community safety.”

Taliah is missing

POLICE are appealing for public assistance to help locatemissing 16-year-oldTaliah, who was last seen on September 10 in Moe.

Policehave concerns for her welfaredue to her age andthe length of time she has beenmissing.

Taliah is about155 centimetrestall with dark brown hair, medium buildand dark complexion.

Taliah is possibly in the Richmond, Morwell or Traralgon areas. Sheisalso known to frequent thesouth-eastern metropolitan area.

Anyone with information about Taliahhas been asked to phone Moe Police Station on 5128 1100.

Smashing: Thescene of the Churchill Plaza, post ramming

Photograph: Facebook

Missing: Taliah Photograph supplied

Councildefers debateoncrime program

From page 1

CR Gibson foreshadowed an amended motion should it be voted down, and mentioned her push for the deferral of any ground-level action,that was carried at the July meeting.

“I was after the deferral because we want him (Minister Carbines) to look at what he will do for us. He has the ability and the knowledge on awhole host of different recommendations that could help our area”, she explained, but failed to showany strongargument on whycouncil shouldn’t do something in the meantime, as the officers had flagged that no action would mean adecline in business in the Morwell CBD.

“I reallyhope that my fellowcouncilors can see the wisdom in actually deferring because we actually might get abetter outcome for our community,” she continued,providing no supporting evidence as to why.

Cr Tracie Lund said thecommunity had already waited toolong.

“Ourresidents have raised genuineconcerns about safety in our CBDs,” she said.

“This isn’t about policing; it’s about council leading the work to support social cohesion. Valuable work from the minister’s office can come at any time -itshouldn’t stop us starting.”

Cr Potter saw the same light, pushing to ensure the work beingdone is designed for the area, rather than acut-and-paste method from the police that may not evenoccur, focusing on “lived experience”.

“Wait for the minister for police? Yeah, he’s got agreat idea for the whole of Victoria”, shesaid, “but he doesn’tknowwhatit’slike to live in the Latrobe Valley”.

Cr Potter continuedtoargue that using the existing methods fromFrankston andDandenong in conjunction with atailored approachwouldbethe most effective option forLatrobe City.

“Launch the initiatives to show what we’re doing

Minister Carbines, you’re Morwell’sonly hope.

YALLOURN WARD COUNCILOR STEPH MORGAN

locally, that’s what the minister wants to see, he doesn’t want to see us sitting here saying ‘please telluswhatthe answer is’, because he doesn’t have it,” she said.

MayorHarriman posed aquestion to the CEO on arecent program basedonantisocial behaviour in Moe, ran by state Member for Eastern Victoria HarrietShing and the now-defunctLatrobe Health Assembly, and what had come of it.

“The short answer is no,” Mr Piasante clarified, showing up forthe thirdtime that LatrobeCity did not have any strong reliance on agenciesother than Victoria Police.

Cr Morgan closed by reiterating that in contrary to Cr Darren Howe’s statement of May, tackling this issue has been in discussionfor afurther three months, back in February.

“Dowewait until Morwell businesses have been driven out? The CBD becomes aghost town?

“That is how our community members are feelingthis is going, thatthey are continuously being abandoned and forgotten aboutbyus, the council, because we have other agendas at play,”

Cr Morgan said.

Cr Morgan also made astrong point to the current lack of police presencedue to the events in Porpunkah “makes it really clearthat we need to look at other approaches”. She finished with asmirk,saying, “I never thought so many of my

Latrobe crime snapshot: 2025

LATROBE City is experiencinga rise in crime, following the annual Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) data release on Thursday.

While criminal activity is up across all Victorian LGAs, Latrobe recorded 12,584.3 criminal incidents per 100,000 residents, an increase of 9.4 per cent in the 12 months since June 2024.

A“criminalincident”refers to asingleevent, while “offencesrecorded” counts every breach of the law withinthat event, meaning one incident can involvemultiple offences

StateMember for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath criticisedthe government, claiming it had reduced officer numbers.

“Victoria Police has 2000 empty jobs, the policeare doing their best under immense pressure but are let down by the Allan Labor government. Locals are paying the price –left feeling unsafe in their homes, on the streets and even while shopping,” she said.

Ms Bath claimed “not aweek has gone by without

my office receiving calls about alarming local crimes”, as residents plead withher and fellow policitians Martin Cameron and Darren Chester for support and advocacy.

Meanwhile, Newborough Ward Councillor Sharon Gibson’s supposed saviour, Minister for PoliceAnthony Carbines, is in hot water post data circulation.

Statewide, crime is up 18.3 per cent from the prior year,with483,583 criminalincidents recorded. The minister held aconference shortly after the release, amove speculated to avoid difficult questions, as journalists try to hold him to account.

Mr Carbineshas arecent track recordofdeclining interviews and avoiding media scrutiny.

Earlier this year, Premier Allan was forced to defend the minister amid calls for his resignation, blaming poor managementofthe folio for the policing crisis at the time.

NEW BUSINESS INTHEVALLEY

colleagues would put so much weight into the opinion of aVictorian labor minister, and Ifind that very interesting.

“We need to do something for ourselves. It’s not that much, it’s not that hard, let’s do it,” Cr Morgan said.

The original motion failed, with only Crs Morgan, Lund, and Potter in support.

Cr Gibson’sforeshadowedamendmentthen swooped in:defer the decisionuntil November, pending aministerial visit, but provisionally set aside $30,000 in reserves. This second part came in the form of an amendment from Cr Potter, trying to make the best out of an unsatisfactoryoutcome.

Cr Morgan then spoke against the motion, visibly unenthused by the turn of events within the meeting.

“I am again disappointed that we are once again delaying some real, real community impact,” she said.

The Yallourn councillor expressedher frustration in making no progressinanissue that has persisted, since the start of the year, before dropping the most dramatic pop culture reference Latrobe City Council has seen in 2025.

“To paraphrase Star Wars: Episode IV,Minister Carbines, you’re Morwell’s only hope,” Cr Morgan said.

“I hope he plans avisit to Morwell very soon, and Ihope it’s agood one, because our community is being abandoned and let down by those they have elected to be here and support.”

Cr Gibson retorted that she has “quite abit of faith in the police minister”, regardless of his party, based on the progresshehas given Frankston and Dandenong, and seesnoreason why it wouldn’t work in Latrobe.

“I believe whether he lives here or not, he has got the ability and experience to know what can and can’t work,” she said.

Cr Lund tightened up the debate hesitantly,

Towns by total offences recorded: Year ending June 2025

1. Morwell -Dominates in assault,theft, and justiceoffences, with activityacross nearlyall categories.

2. Traralgon -Broad and consistent spread of theft, assault, drug use, and public disorder.

3. Moe -Leads in weapons and justice breaches, with added disorderly and dangerous conduct.

4. Churchill -Strong in assault and burglary, with notable theft and property damage.

5. Newborough -Mix of theft, deception, stalking, and burglary, plus justice and drug offences.

Latrobe recorded14,010 offencesinthe past 12 months,with only 6,758resulting in an arrest or summons

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Preoccupied in Porpunkah: The honourable Anthony Carbines, State Minister for Police and Community Safety Photo: Parliament of Victoria

looking Cr Gibson in the eye while telling council they werewaiting for asilver bullet,inthe formof astate minister who hasn’t even booked atimeto visit, which she doubtswill occur before November.

Cr AdelePuglseyemphasised what council was asking of the minister was the very thing he specialised in,and saw it better to wait it out to get it right ratherthan wasting resources and officers’ time in something else that may not work.

“We don’t have alot of money to throw in the wrong direction,” Cr Pugsley said.

The direction may appear to be limbo until November arrives. Councilcarried the (convoluted) amended foreshadowed motion as it became the next best option, in the words of Cr Potter, who jumped ship to support the promise of at least doing something two months down the track over nothing at all. This left only Crs Morgan and Lund in opposition, much like the rebel alliance, searching for that sense of hope and waiting for the minister to strike back.

Community Connectors and CBD Outreach –key events

 February 2025 Council backs funding bid for outreach program.

 March 2025 Motion passed to prepare report.

 May 2025 Report shows crime rises (15% overall, 38% drugs); Council defers decision, awaiting Police Minister feedback.

 June 2025 Public asks about CBD drug/alcohol use; Council confirms Victoria Police is lead.

 July 2025 Community Safety Advisory Committee TOR updated, stronger police partnership.

 September 2025 Council calls for more bus route officers; CBD Outreach debate ends in deferral, but $30k provisionally allocated.

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Rosedale localsnow under the pump

By DAVID BRAITHWAITE

FOR residents of Rosedale, it's acase of "two's company, three's crowd".

The residents are objecting to aproposed third service station in the town.

Application is currently before Wellington Shire Councilfor aservice station to be builtonatwo-lot subdivision on the corner of the Princes Highway (Lyons St) and Nelson St.

Around 40 concerned residents attended ameeting at thesite last week to discuss acourse of action.

Concerned residents say their town of more than 2000 people is too small for athird service station.

Issues identified duringlastweek's community meeting included traffic congestion; residential and environmental impact; safe access on road for motorists and pedestrians; access and egress of the site for fuel trucks, large vehicles and caravans; and loss of income for small business, and potential fire and spill risk.

Rosedale already has one operating BP service station on the main road, while aUnited across the road is closed ahead of aplanned expansion.

According to the application, the potential third service station will operate under the Ampol banner. It will have afuel pump canopy, convenience store and automatic car wash.

An Ampol spokesperson told the Express the company had no affiliation with the Rosedalesite.

"The applicanthas simply used our brandingin theirdevelopmentapplication," the spokesperson said Resident Ally Marks said while acknowledging the land's zoning allowed for arange of using, including aservice station, locals felt there were more appropriate uses for the site.

"First of all, we don't want, but second of all, nobody's upsetifthat land was to be acommercial site -just ee don'tneed athird servo in suchaclose proximity to the other two," she said.

"There'sarangeofthings under Zone 1thatthey could do -itcould be akinder, it could be ashop, it could be all sorts of things, including apetrol station -but in terms of acommunity need, but not even just this particular community, it would be beneficial from the wider district as well, just have akinder, (there is a) waiting list of trying to get childcare.

"There's so many things they could actually be done if they really wanted to do something and developthatland, there's better things to do rather thananother servo”.MsMarkssaid small business

in the town was going to be affected, and doubted if the new service station would create amajor increase in employment.

Ms Markssaidwith Nelson Rd beingaskinny gravel road, dust and the affectheavy vehicles leaving the station would have on the road was aconcern.

"If that were to decide to approve this terrible project, they'regoing to havetodosome significant roadways," she said.

Residents will write to Wellington Shire councillors, local MPs Darren Chester and Danny O'Brien and government authorities like VicRoads.

AWellington Shire Council spokesperson said the application was lodged earlier this year and was currently under assessment by officers."No decision has been made at this stage," the spokesperson said.

"Whilethe Wellington Planning Scheme did not require formal notification, councilinformed nearby residents of the application and provided an opportunitytocomment. Any feedbackreceived from those residents will be carefully considered before adecision is made.

"Under theprovisions of the WellingtonPlanning Scheme, councilisthe decision-makerfor thisapplication and there are no third-party appeal rights to VCAT." The council spokesperson confirmed the zoning provisions that apply to the site allow

aservicestation proposal to be considered through aplanning permit application.

"Each applicationisassessed on its individual merits against the WellingtonPlanning Scheme andrelevant planning policies," the spokesperson said.

"Council is responsible for determining whether the proposed use and development is appropriate for the site, taking into accountplanning policy, expert referral advice, and the comments of nearby residents. In land use planning, the number of

existing businesses of acertain type is not the deciding factor- the assessment is about whether the proposal complieswith planning requirements and is suitable for the land."

According to council,consultationhas occurred in line with the statutory planning process, including referralstorelevant state and service authorities, and letters sent to nearby landowners and occupiers inviting comment. All feedback received from nearby residents will be considered as part of council’s assessment before adecision is made.

BreedStreetClinicgoes

Traralgon residents are celebrating a significant win for affordable healthcare, with Breed Street Clinic announcing its early transition to a fully bulk-billed service from 1st September The move ensures that every patient visiting the clinic with a Medicare card will receive free medical consultations, removing financial barriers to essential healthcare for local families

As Traralgon's oldest running GP clinic, Breed Street has established itself as a cornerstone of the community's healthcare landscape, seeing well over 30,000 patients last year alone The clinic has strengthened its medical team to better serve the community, now operating with nine doctors following the recent addition of three female doctors specialising in women's health and paediatric care This expansion enhances

the clinic's capacity to provide comprehensive healthcare services tailored to the diverse needs of Traralgon families

For Traralgon residents, this development represents more than just free medical consultations, it's about removing barriers that might prevent people from seeking timely medical attention

The clinic's commitment to maintaining high-quality healthcare standards while eliminating patient costs ensures that financial concerns will no longer delay necessary medical care

The transition to full bulk billing at Breed Street Clinic marks a significant milestone in Traralgon's healthcare accessibility, promising to deliver lasting benefits for the community's health and wellbeing

Not wanted: Around 40 concerned residentsattended ameeting in Rosedale last week.

Photograph supplied

Third servo: An artist’s impression of the proposed service station Image: Wellington Shire Council

Planning to stay above the waterline

By AIDANKNIGHT

AS thestateraces to deliver newhomes in the housing crisis, Victoria’s regional leaders warn that failing to plan for flooding risks could leave communities at aloss, and extra planning measures should be taken.

Speaking at the RegionalAustralia Institute (RAI) Regions Rising forum at Federation University Gippsland,state Housing Minister HarrietShing said housing solutions had to be sustainable.

“Everyone likes to live close to awaterway… until the floods,” she told the audience.

“The more you develop, themore you see impact in the way that watermoves in and aroundnatural landscapes.”

The 2022 floods offered aharsh lesson, forcing the state to deploy 70 emergency dwellings at short notice, adding strain to an already tight housing market. Traralgon in particular,isthe most densely populated town in Latrobe City, from the Traralgon Creek, which hasflooded seven times since 1978.

The urban areas of Traralgon have experienced major flooding fromTraralgon Creek in 1978,1993, 1995, 2011, 2012, 2021, and 2022. Thelastofwhich saw alate-issued evacuation that led to the death of a57-year-oldwoman and her dog, who were whisked away by the water in the flash flood event.

The Moe River also flooded at Darnum during this time, and exceeded the major flood level on thefourth day. This highlights how quickly local waterways can swell and the pressure this places on housing and infrastructure.

Minister Shing’s argumentwas that houses could not be built in areas prone to these events without takingextrameasures to ensuretheir longevity. The2022floods forced the statetodeploy 70 emergency dwellings, which added straintoan already tight housing situation, something that has only worsened since.

In Bass Coast Shire, where waterways converge, flood studies are now considered essential before development can proceed. Infrastructure costs are also climbing.

Water infrastructure costsare skyrocketing, with Melbourne Water contributions expected to increase by 140 per cent over four years, adding $40,000 per housing lot.This dramatic cost increase threatens to price out regional

development entirely, making flood-resilient planning not just environmentally necessary but economically critical.

“Getting it right now means that we don’t have to retrofit later,” Minister Shing said, pointing to the spiralingcosts of retrofitting flood protection in places like Fisherman’s Bend as an example.This area saw the retrofitting occur after development, amuch more expensive endeavor that saw government, and ultimately taxpayers, having to pay for land at an inflated price to add infrastructure to the community.

The RAI’s eventsaw speakers and panelists share ideas that dictated what legislation should be put in place to make for effective housing in flood-prone areaslikeTarragon, which saw an emergency flood warning inquiry in August last year in response to the two previous events. Two months later, Moe Morwell and Traralgon all suffered flash flooding again.

Key strategies proposed by panelists included:

 Drainage, stormwater, and flood modelling are built into every new development;



Elevated housing designs that remain affordable and livable;

 Wetlands and basins doubling as natural flood protection and community spaces, and,

 Updated flood modelling that reflects climate change, not just past events.

Success requires coordination between all levels of government,withlocal councilsplayingacrucial role as “the interface betweenpeople’s experience of livability and large-scalepolicy decisions”, according to Minister Shing. This means ensuring flood studies, drainage planning, and housing targets work in harmony rather than conflict.

Regional Australia needs homes that will still be standing andlivable decades from now. This was all to say that local government cannot solve the housing projects on their own, and the state cannot fill the gaps without consulting the areas where they declare houses will be built.

Ms Shing saw it that if successful case studies were shared between regions to make evidencebased decisions, and the state aligns housing targets with flood management from the outset, regions like Latrobe would be abletohouse adequately without the work washing away.

MorefromRising Regions, page 28

Plan ahead: Extraplanning measures shouldbetaken to avoidhomes beingflooded, Housing

Minister Harriet Shing told aforum. File photograph

Hi, I’m Jeff from TM&H Mitre 10, Moe. After 50 years in hardware, gardening has become areal passion of mine!

With spring well underway in Gippsland, the mornings are finally warming, though the odd frost can still surprise you ,sodon’t pack away that frost cloth just yet.

If you want athriving garden this season, remember it all starts from the ground up. Healthy soil means healthy plants.

Test Your Soil pH Te

Spring is the perfect time to check your soil’s acidity (pH). Asimple test kit will give you quick results:

Ideal range: Most veggies, lawns, and flowers prefer pH 6–7 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• Too acidic (low pH): Add dolomite lime to raise the level.

Too alkaline (high pH): Add liquid lime sulphur to bring it back down. Always: adjust in small amounts, then re-test in afew weeks.

• Remember: some plants, like azaleas and blueberries, actually love acidic soil ,so treat each bed according to what you grow.

What to Plant Now PlantNow

Spring is the time to get colour and produce into your garden.

Flowers: Carnations, lavender, and foxgloves for instant colour. Perennials like irises and peonies for long-lasting displays Petunias, marigolds, and zinnias for quick, cheerful blooms.

Veggies: Peas, lettuce, and silver beet are perfect cool-season crops. Sow root

veggies like carrots, beetroot, and radish direct into the soil. As the weather warms, start tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchinis, and capsicums, but if frosts linger in your patch,

kick them off in pots or under frost cloth.

Herbs: Basil, parsley, oregano, sage, thyme, coriander, and mint are all spring winners and great to have near the kitchen.

Fruit &Trees: Still agoodtime to plant citrus, passionfruit, and berries. If you’ve been thinking about anew fruit tree, now’s the time while the soil’s got spring moisture

Keep an EyeOut ep

Pests: Snails and slugs are active now. Use pellets or try the old torch-and-bucket method at night.

Roses: Watch for aphids and black spot. Use ageneral rose spray. Ilike the Yates Rose Spray

FruitTrees: Look out for rust on new growth. Prune out affected areas and treat with afungicide spray. With the warmer days ahead, there’s no better time to get outside. Plant, plan, and enjoy your garden this October! Happy Gardening!

Mitre 10,

THE federal government has been challenged in parliament to commit funding for the final design and planning work required to begin construction of the Traralgon by-pass.

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the by-pass was the most important regional road transportproject east of Melbourne followingthe completion of the Traralgon-Sale Princes Highway duplication.

The local MP secured a$5millionfunding commitment from the Coaltion prior to the May election, but the Labor Party did not backthe project.

“Sadly, there's also been no new funding for the highway from the Albanese government in threeand-a-half years,” Mr Chester told parliament.

“We now have15intersectionswith roundabouts or traffic lights in Traralgon, and it takes somewhere between 15 to 20 minutestoget through the town on agood day.

“During longweekends or peakholidayperiods, it's much worse. Providing aby-pass would reduce congestion for locals, improvethe safety and productivity of the road, increase the liveability for the local community and also help to boost the visitor economy by bringing the rest of Gippsland closer to the south-east Melbourne growth markets by reducing travel times.

“These are well-recognised social, economic and environmental benefits that could be achieved in building this by-pass.”

Mr Chester said the state government had refused to engage with the community, the local council and thetransport sector to progress the project.

“At the last election, to try and get this project moving, the Coalition announced thatitwould provide $5 million to accelerate the planning for this project,” Mr Chester said.

“Obviously we didn't win the election, so that promiseawaits some sort of matching contribution, hopefully from the Labor Party here in Canberra or perhaps the state government itself.

“We need to accelerate the design and costing work.Wewanttosee some money on the table to get this project acceleratedinthe interestof improving safety,obviously, for locals, but also for the travelling public.

“We've written repeatedly to the Andrews and Allan Labor governments and tried to get them on board with this project, which has been talked about for the best part of 30 years. Now that the duplication work is done, the next major road transport project east of Melbourne is clearly the Traralgon by-pass.”

MEMBER for Morwell, MartinCameron, has taken aim at the state government over its handling of asimple question about which department owns aset of vacant buildings in Traralgon.

Mr Cameron was contacted by residents who raised concerns about the state of vacant government-owned propertiesonHydePark Road, sitingbroken windowsand doors as giving way to squatters and anti-socialbehaviour.

“In September 2024, Iwas assured the properties were owned by the Department of Jobs,Skills, Industries and Regions (DJSIR), so that’s where Idirected questions about whatwas beingdone with them,” Mr Cameron said.

“After sittingonthe enquiryfor five months, the DJSIR advised it had referred my enquiry to the Minister for Housing, claiming the properties fell under her portfolio.

“Then,the Ministerfor Housingsat on the referral for four months before informing me the properties were actually the responsibility of the

Minister for Health”. Mr Cameron said he was recently informed by the Minister for Health that the properties were actually the responsibility of the Minister for Mental Health.

“So now, after an entire year, this simple question fromLatrobe Valley residentsissittingwitha fourth minister and we are still none the wiser," Mr Cameron said.

“This is acomical albeit infuriating example that illustrates the Allan Labor government is a complete basket-case.

“It’s impossibletoget information outofministers who don’t even know their own portfolios, and it’s Victorianswho arebeing short-changed every time.

“Given this hasdragged on for ayear now,I sincerelyhope the Minister for Mental Health can provide an answer to this very simplequestion and give Latrobe Valley residents the respect of doing so in atimely manner.”

Opal seeks $402m from govt

By PHILIP HOPKINS

OPAL, which is suing the state government $402 million for breach of contract, lost more than 350 employeeswhenwhite paperproduction was forced to close at the MaryvalePaper Mill becausethe government did not supply the hardwood timber guaranteed in the Wood Pulp Agreement.

Before the government's alleged breach of contract, the Maryvale Paper Mill employed more than 850 team members, Opal documents show. Its operations supported direct and flow-on jobs across Victoria.

The mill now employs more than 500 team members and is still amajor employer in the Latrobe Valley, where it has operated since 1937.

Despite the white paper closure, Maryvale Mill still generates $387 million in revenue annually, employing 539 full-time equivalent workers who receive $90 million in wages and salaries.

AreportbyconsultancyREMPLAN for Opal, says this direct economicactivity generates about $111.1 million in value-added to Latrobe City's Gross Regional Product.

Following this direct impact, demand for intermediate goods and services is likely to increase revenue for local supply chainindustreisby $164.3m, support304 supply-chain-related jobs and generate afurther $55.1 million in value-added.

Thesesupplychain effects include multiple rounds of flow-on supply chain effects: pulp, paper and paperboard manufacturing boosted by $25.6 million; professional, scientific and technical services $16.7 million,and basic chemical,cleaning and polymer manufacturing by $14.2 million.

The total output impact in Latrobe City is $622million. For everydollarofdirectspending, afurther $0.61 is captured elsewhere in the municipality.

Opal alleged the stategovernment breached its wood supply agreement madein1996with Amcor, the then operator of the Maryvale Mill, to supplypulpwood. The agreementwas dueto expire in June 2030.

In 1998, Amcor assigned its rightstop Paper AustraliaP/L, now trading as Opal. Underthe agreement, the government state-owned enterprise VicForests provided Opal with eucalyptwood,a

criticalmaterialfor white paper production. In November 2022, the government advised Opal it would be unable to fulfill its contractual obligations to supply wood.

For the 2022-23 financial year, areduced supply of wood was supplied to Opal by VicForests. Opal saysthe government did not intend to supply any wood in the future,forcing the company to terminate the agreement in May 2023.

With no viable wood alternative to replace the wood supply, Opal was forced to close its white pulp andpaper productionatMaryvale in early 2023,resulting in the loss of more than 400 jobs across Australia.

"Theclosure,together withthe reduction in production volumes, consequential redundancies an dthe severe commercial impacts on the entire Opal Group arising from the loss of its white pulp and paper business,has caused -and continuesto cause-Opal to suffer substantial lossand damage," the company said in astatement.

OpalhopedtheSupremeCourtactionwoulddetermine the matter "fairly and in atimelymanner.”

Take aBreak

BRAIN STRAIN

1. If Iwas visitingthe town of Cooktown, what statewould Ibein?

2. What movie has the catchphrase ‘Keep the change ya filthy animal’ from?

3. Fast Carwas ahit forTracy Chapman, but what popular American male country singer recently re-released it?

4. What does the acronym FOMO stand for? TWOPOINTERS

5. Which musical is based on the songs of ABBA?

6. What is oftenseen as thesmallestunit of memory?

7. What is the primary ingredient in hummus?

8. In golf,what is the name given to threeunder par fora hole? THREE POINTER

9. Howmanytimes did Ross getdivorcedin‘Friends’?

10.Inthe TV show‘Cheers’ what sport did Sam Malone play beforeowning the bar?

11. What waspaper invented by theEgyptians called?

12. Howmanyghosts chase PacMan at the startofeach game? FOUR POINTER

13. Which systeminthe human body is responsible forhormone production and regulation?

14. What item did Alfred Nobel, the founder of theNobel Prize invent?

FIVE POINTER

15. Who were the fivemain singers in the ‘Traveling Wilburys’? One point foreach correct answer.

Howdid youfare?

37: Topofthe class; 30-36: Outstanding; 23-29: Well done; 15-20: Solid effort; 9-14: Room forimprovement; 0-8: Hit the books. :rsweAns 1: Queensland; 2: Home alone; 3: ombs;eCLuk 4: arFe Of singMis Out; 5: Mama a;Mi 6: kpeas;hic:C;7tebyKilo 8: s;osbatrAl 9: ee;Thr 10: Baseball; 11: rus;pyPa 12: ur;Fo 13: Endocrine em;stSy 14: e;namitDy 15: -1 ynne,ffLJe -2. n,rbisoyORo ob.B-3 lan,Dy -4. ettymPTo and -5. geGeor Harrison ONE POINTERS

Howtoplay...

Using the9 lettersin thegrid, howmany wordsoffour letters or more canyou list? Thecentrelettermust be included andeach letter maybeused onlyonce. No colloquialorforeign words. No capitalisednouns, apostrophesorplural wordsending in ‘s’.

BATA SOCKS

TrafalgarFarmers Market

First Saturday of the month Next Market: Saturday, 4 October 9am - 1pm

36 Ashby Street Trafalgar

Over 60 stalls of we make it, we bake it and we sew it A large range of organic produce and much more!

More info at facebook.com/ Trafalgar Farmers Market

REH Cork Club Craft Market

Second Saturday each month September to May Next Market: 11 October 8am -1pm Kay Street Gardens, Traralgon

Craft and Second-hand Goods

Make It! Bake It! GrowIt!

New Stallholders welcome info@marketrehcorkclub.org

REH Cork Club Craft Market page on Facebook

Baw Baw Arts Alliance

Warragul Arts and Makers Market

Third Saturday of the month, October to April Next Market: Saturday, 18

October 8.30am – 1.00pm

TAFE Gippsland Car Park, Queen St, Warragul More info at facebook.com/ BawBawArtsAlliance/

Yarragon Craft & Produce Market

Fourth Saturday of the month Next Market: Saturday,25October 9am -1pm

60 PLUSSTALLS

Agreat varietyofhandmade crafts, hot food and coffee. Waterloo Park, Yarragon WeatherPermitting yarragonmarket@outlook.com

Emporium 3844

Tuesday -Saturday

Open 10:00am -4:00pm Home to 90+

Small Businesses! Traralgon’s first and only upscale indoor market!

Located in the Seymour /Hotham Street Arcade,Traralgon Phone -0477 156 480 emporium3844@gmail.com

Morwell Trash & Treasure Market

Open 6Days aWeek! Closed on Monday Tuesday -Friday,Open 10am -4pm Saturday &Sunday,Open 8am -4pm 31 Holmes Road, Morwell CASH ONLY

Indoor and Outdoor Stalls For more information and bookings please call Jo on 0437 981 388

SHAWS ARCADE

CHRISTMAS POP UP MARKET

Greens welcome new candidate for Eastern Vic

SIXTH-GENERATION

Gippslander, climate campaigner and Bass Coast Shire councillor Mat Morgan has been announced at the Greens' lead candidate for the Eastern Victoria upper house region at next year's state election.

Mr Morgan has spent his life fighting to protect the region's forests, waters and farmland.

Mr Morgan said Eastern Victoria was on the frontline of climate change, and through his local activism and position on Bass Coast council, was already working to deliver afair in inclusive transition away from "high-emission policies".

Crucialworkneeded, Mr Morgan said,included the creation of secure jobs while ensuring Gippsland'scommunities could adopt and flourish.

Speaking on the issues that will shape the 2026

state election, Mr Morgan said locals would be making their voting decisionsbased not only on climate policy. He said schools and hospitalsin the region were underfunded, infrastructure was inadequate and too many families were struggling to make ends meet while corporations weren't paying their fair share of tax.

"From our schools and hospitals to ourroads and emergency services, our communitiesneed real investment. I'll fight to secure regional jobs, quality services and afuture where every family can thrive in asafe, healthy environment,"Mr Morgan said.

"I'm running to make sure Eastern Victoria has the strong, sustainability-focused representation it deserves, now and for the future."

Tilla Buden joins Baw Baw

All info can be found on Facebook or Instagram by searchingShaws Arcade Pop Up Market MARKETS

To book your space contact mdelacy@lvexpress com au Maddi on 5135 4413

Saturday 6 December 8am - 1pm

Stallholder spaces still available

BAW Baw Shire Council has announced the appointment of Tilla Buden as its newchief executive.

Ms Buden has held executive roles at Bayside City, Greater Dandenong and Yarra Ranges councils, with expertise spanning organisational leadership, sustainable service design, major project delivery and community-centred innovation.

Ms Buden has spent the past 18 months leading the community and customer experience division at Bayside City Council, overseeing community careand wellbeing, arts, libraries,customer service and experience, communications and engagement. Baw Baw Shire Mayor DannyGosssaidthe council wasdelighted to welcomeMsBuden to the role.

“This is apivotal time for Baw Baw. With anew council group, anew council plan and now anew

CEO, we are setting the stage for astrongand vibrant future," he said.

"Tilla’s leadershipskills, strategic vision and genuine commitment to community will be invaluable in helping shape that future.”

Ms Buden said council playedanimportant role in supporting the health and wellbeing of communities through quality, innovative and community-focused services and infrastructure. "I look forward to partneringwith the mayor, councillors, our staff and the community to deliver on the visionofasustainable,healthy and thriving shire," she said.

"Collaboration with staff, local communities, partners and government will remain central to how Ilead and the outcomes we achieve together.” Ms Buden will formally begin in the role on November 17.

Topofthe ticket: Greens upper house candidate Mat Morgan. Photograph supplied

Fresh face: TillaBuden

Mental health and well-being awareness throughout Australia

MENTAL Health Month in Victoria, andacrossAustralia, is observed in October to raise awareness and promote well-being.

The initiative is aligned with World Mental Health Day on October 10th, with various organizations and community groups organizing events, resources,and campaignsto encourage open conversations, reducestigma, and promote help-seeking behaviors.

Thereare several ways to get involved:

•Get information and resources from organizations likethe BlackDog Institute Beyond Blue, and theMental Health Commission.

•Use the opportunity to talk about mentalhealth with

friends, family, andcolleagues.

This is agreat way to take away the stigma of Mental Health issues

•SupportResearch and Services likeThe Black Dog Institute who run campaigns like One Foot Forward, which allows you to raisemoneyfor mental health research by walking,running,orrolling.

Relevant Resources forSupport

n Beyond Blue: Offers 24/7 supportvia phone, online chat,and forumsfor those strugglingwith anxiety, depression, and other issues.

n Lifeline: A24/7 crisis supportservice available by phone at 13 11 14

Gippsland Centreagainst Sexual Assault (GCASA)

GCASA acknowledge all people who have been impacted by sexual harm,both long past and more recent.

They acknowledge your journey andstrengthsand the impacts experiencedbyyou, your families, and your supportpeople

GCASA want you to know they see you; theylistenwithoutjudgement and they believe you.

GCASA providespecialistsupport servicesacrossthe Gippsland Region

They areafreeand confidential service that offers individual counselling and advocacy for childrenand adultswho have beenimpacted by sexual assault

Their REFOCUS service offers atherapeutic response where achild or youngperson has engagedinproblematicorharmful sexual behaviours.

GCASA providesaCrisis Care

response 24/7for people who have experienced arecent sexual assault across allofGippsland.

GCASA alsoprovidesCrisis Care responses outside of business hours to people experiencingfamilyviolencelivinginthe BawBaw, Latrobe Valley,SouthGippsland andBass CoastShires

GCASA’s team of crisis care staff areall based withinthe Gippsland region and ready to providea localised response.

GCASA’s visionistobean equitablecommunityfreeofsexual assault and violence.

GCASA arecommittedtothe preventionofsexualassault by engaging the Gippsland community in their initiativesto raise awareness and advocatefor change to reduce the incidenceof sexual assault.

Thereare no right or wrong responses to atraumatic event.

The impact of sexual assault can be variedand may include feelingsofhelplessness, fear, shame, guilt, emotional numbness, difficultieswith sleep,feelings of anxietyand sadness

With therapeutic and advocacy supportthe emotional, psychological, physical andsocial impacts of sexual assaultcan be reduced.

Whatever your experience you are encouraged to seeksupport as soon as possible

For further information about GCASAservices and forother helpfulresources visit gcasa.org.au or call GCASA on 5134 3922

n Sexual Assault Crisis Line (SACL):1800806 292 n SafeSteps FamilyViolence Response Centre: 1800 015188

Empowerment Respect

think. grow. connect.

SINCE opening in 2014, think.grow.connect, based in Traralgon, has become atrusted hub for mental health and wellbeingacross the Gippsland region.

Locallyowned andoperated, the clinic is dedicated to improving the lives of people of all ages throughcompassionate, evidence-based care.

From young children navigating early development challengestoadults managingcomplex life stressors,think. grow.connect provides services that make a tangible difference in thecommunity At the heart of the practice is ateam of psychologists, social workers, and counsellors.

Together,theyoffer awiderange of therapies, including:

n CognitiveBehavioural Therapy (CBT): Agoal-oriented therapy thathelps clients identify unhelpful thoughts andbehaviours, and replace them with healthier, moreeffective patterns.

n Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Amindfulness-basedapproach that teachesclients to acceptdifficult thoughts and feelings while taking action alignedwith theirvalues

n DialecticalBehaviour Therapy (DBT): Astructured therapy that combines CBT withmindfulnesstobuild skillsinmanaging emotions,tolerating distress, and improvingrelationships.

n Mindfulness-BasedApproaches: Techniquesthat cultivate awareness of the present moment, helping clients reducestress, improve focus,and regulate emotions.

n Trauma-informed therapies, including EMDR: EMDR therapy reduces

the emotional intensity of distressing memories.

Guidedbilateral eye movementsallow clients to safely process experiences, promoting healing and resilience. This trauma-informed approach is available for clientsasyoung as four,demonstrating the clinic’s commitmenttocareacross the lifespan

n PlayTherapy: Play is achild’s natural language, allowing them to explore feelings, communicateexperiences, and work through challenges in ways that feel safe and developmentally appropriate.

n Group Therapy: Therapist-led sessions whereclientsshareexperiences, build skills, and gain supportina group setting. Examplesincludegroups for relationship andsocialskill development.

Services aretailored forchildren, adolescents, adults, and families, addressing anxiety, depression,trauma,emotional regulation, social skills, and other mental health challenges.

think,grow, connect provides Psychology BoardApprovedSupervision, ClinicalPeer Supervision, Professional Development. Theclinicfosters culturalsafetyand inclusivity,acknowledging Aboriginal andTorres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional custodians of the land.

Clients from allbackgrounds,identities, andcircumstances arewelcomed into a supportive and respectful environment.

Comprehensive Psychological Assessments Amajor strength of think.grow.connect is its evidence-basedpsychological assessments, designedfor individuals of all ages Assessments follow national guidelines

Psychological and AlliedHealth Services forChildren, Young People,adultsand Families

Therapyservices

•Individual Therapy

•MentalHealth Assessment

•PlayTherapy

•Child &Adolescent Group Therapies

•Eye Movement

Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy

•ComprehensivePsychological Assessments

to ensureaccuratediagnoses and effective recommendations. Corecomponents of all assessments include:

n Intake Appointment: Gathering background information and confirmingassessment suitability

n Screening Questionnaires: Standardised toolssuch as ASEBA, Conners CBRS, SRS-2, and occasionally CELF 5A&NZ Screening Test

n Standardised assessment: Standardised assessment such as CognitiveAssessments, ADOS-2 and MIGDAS-2.

n ReviewofClient History: Examination of previous assessments, academic records, anddevelopmental history Assessment Packages

Available:

1. Autism Assessment: Cognitive assessments, structured observations (ADOS-2), clinical interviews (ADI-R), and adaptive behaviour evaluations (Vineland-3)

2. ADHD Assessment: Cognitive assessments, behavioural observations, and structured interviews (DIVA-5) basedon DSM-5 and Australasianguidelines

3. SpecificLearning Disorder Assessment: Cognitivetesting (WISC-V), memoryand auditoryprocessing evaluations(WRAML3,TAPS-4), andacademic achievement testing (WIAT-III)

4. Intellectual and Developmental Disorder Assessment: Comprehensive cognitiveand adaptive behaviour evaluations

5. Functional CapacityAssessment: Structured interviews, observations, and

standardised tools(WHODAS 2.0,Sensory Profile 2, Vineland-3)

Clientsare advised to have amedical check-up beforeassessments, along with vision andhearing screenings,tosupport accurate results.

Combinedor individually tailored packages arealso available to meet specific needs. Meet theTeam

think.grow.connect’s clinicians bring a wealth of experience:

n Psychologists: Assess,diagnose, and treat mentalhealth concerns with evidence-based approaches

n Social Workers: Provide therapeutic supportand practical guidance for individuals and families

n Counsellors: Help clients explore feelings, develop coping skills, and navigate life challenges

Choosing theright professional is about findingthe right fitfor individualneeds—not justa title

Empowering Gippsland, One Connection at aTime

From short term support to long-termpersonal growth,think.grow.connect continues to empower individuals and strengthen mentalhealth in theGippsland community supporting mental wellbeingthrough every stage oflife.

Farmers must be involved in Treaty process: VFF president

By PHILIP HOPKINS

VICTORIA’S farmers must be involved in the process and legislation to create aVictorian Aboriginal Treaty, according to the industry’s peak body.

Victorian Farmers Federation president Brett Hosking acknowledged the governmenthad reached an in-principle agreement on Australia’s first Treaty.

Mr Hosking said the introduction of this legislation wasbethe firsttimeithad been seen by many stakeholders.

“It is critical that such asignificant piece of policy and legislation is consideredthrough an open and transparent consultation processasit moves through parliament,” he said.

Mr Hosking said farmers and regional communities must form part of this consultation.

“We look forward to engaging constructively to achieve the right result,” he said.

“The governmentsaidthemselves that these policies work best when people affected can have their say. This must be the way forward on this process.”

Premier JacintaAllan,introducing the Statewide TreatyAgreement intoparliament, said the Treaty madesensebecauseitgave Aboriginal peopleasay in how their services were run.

“It’s that simple. All families are better off when they have responsibility over their lives, their future and the things thataffect them. Aboriginal families are no different,” she said.

“Our first Treaty sets clear rules to achieve real, practical change over time.It doesn’t take anything away from anyone -it’sabout improvingpeople’s lives and the services they use.”

Ms Allan said generations of advocacy by First Peoples had led to this important moment.

“We recogniseit. Theyhave an unbrokenrelationship with the land where we live. We acknowledge it. They nurtured the oldestliving culturesonearth We’re proud of it,” she said.

“I thank the First People’s Assembly of Victoria for the trust they have shown in undertaking this journey with us. Iacknowledge the Treaty Authority and its members for theirrole in ensuring afair negotiation.

“And, Iacknowledge the work of the Yoorrook Justice Commission who have faithfully recorded thetruth. Finally, Ithank the Victorian people for coming with us on this journey, which continues still. Thefirst Treaty in Australia’s history will be in your name, too -and it will benefit us all.”

The Victorian Governmentand First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoriareached in-principleagreement

on Australia’s first Treaty after adecade of talks.

The first negotiated Statewide Treaty Agreement brings together First Peoples, through the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, and the Victorian Government, to build anew relationship based on respect, trust and integrity. It acknowledges he state’s past and aims to allow all Victorians to move forward together.

The Statewide Treaty Bill proposes to make the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria permanent and expand its responsibilitiestodeliver better outcomes for First Peoples in Victoria. Subject to the passageofthe bill through parliament, the negotiatedTreaty Agreement will be signed by both parties.

Ms Allan said policies and programs work best when the peopleaffected by them have asay in how they are delivered.

“That’s why this bill proposes to put decisionmaking power about initiatives and services that impact First Peoples into the hands of the First Peoples’ Assembly,” she said.

The bill proposes that the expanded assembly:

 Be led by democratically elected Members providing representation of First Peoples;

 Make decisions and rules about specific matters that directly impact First Peoples;

 Form an independent accountability mechanism as required by the National Agreement to Close the Gap;

 Be consulted by government departments on laws and policies affecting First Peoples;

 Lead ongoing truth-telling and healing across Victorian towns and regions, including capturing stories and retaining an archive of this information to support education of the broader public;

 Make certain statutory appointments for existing designated First Peoples’ seatssuch as First Peoples appointments tothe Heritage Council of Victoria, Lead the Aboriginal Community Infrastructure Fund, the Victorian Aboriginal Honour Roll and NAIDOC Week, and;

 Develop aFirst Peoples’ Institute to enhance leadership capability across the sector.

“In Victoria, we have been on along and steady path to Truth and Treaty for nearly adecade. We have passed legislation twice, developed policies, and made commitments across the government. We have taken the time required to lay strong foundations for Treaty, and this Bill represents a historicalmilestone in this journey,” Ms Allan said

Genuinepartnership partofenergyfuture

By PHILIP HOPKINS

GIPPSLAND Aborigines’ vision of the region’s energy future includes agenuine partnership and healing of country,with potentiallandreturns and compensation, according to aregional indigenous leader, Troy McDonald.

Mr McDonald, chair of theGunaikurnai Land andWaters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC), said the energy future was one of renewables, not ‘harmful’ fossil fuels, with recognition of the role of traditional owners anon-negotiables foundation for genuine healing of Country.

Giving the opening addressofthe recent Gippsland New Energy Conference in Traralgon, Mr McDonald said: “I recognise Gunaikurnai as custodians of country, and also of sea country, sky and skyacross Gippsland. Why sky? That’s where the ‘moeties’, the beings that shaped where culture came from.”

“We are here to discuss energy. We carry those responsibilities with us because the choices we make now will shape thehealth of country and community for generations to come,” he said.

Mr McDonald said he grew up in the Latrobe Valley, in Traralgon.

“Formorethan acentury, Gippsland’s energy economy has been powered by fossil fuels -coal, oil andgas -all extracted from Gunaikurnai Country. Contrary to popular belief, we have not been the beneficiaries of that,” he said.

“The historybrought jobs and prosperityto Victoria;italsobrought scars on country and contamination under the water. Scars on culture

on Gunaikurnai culture; the Gunaikurnai people weredisconnected from theland, and heritage was also desecrated in that process. The impacts are still with us today. The Gunaikurnaiare at the table as partners in the industry transition, not bystanders on this.”

When talking about mine rehabilitation, Mr McDonald said, “we can’t confine that conversation to engineeringortechnical stability”. “Remediation must also reflect culture, the environmental, social and economic impacts. All GLaWAC’s policy instruments reflect these,” he said.

“Forus, water-the Gunaikurnaiword ‘yarnda’- is sacred in Gunaikurnai culture; it sustains life. Any restoration of the mine site must respect the cultural value of water, and reckon with the true cost of the harm that has been done before.”

Mr McDonald said being at the table for the mine remediation opportunity- “thistransition” -offered great promise, but “it must not repeat the mistakes of the past”.

Mr McDonald said it was crucial to protect cultural heritage through heritage management plans.

“Healcountry by avoiding the harm of the fossil fuels era; secure economic opportunities for Gunaikurnai people through jobs, training,procurement and shared benefits, and uphold the concept of free informed consent in everynegotiations we conduct,” he said

“That means we will come to the table with intent. Thisisnot just atechnicaltransition; it is aculturaland social one as well. Again, it’s our

opportunity to be part of the industry ecosystem around renewables.”

Mr McDonald said Pathways to Partnerships was one of GLaWAC’s instruments of “how we want to do business with the sector”.

“The GLaWAC partnerships model sets new standard for agreement-making,” he said. This was anew standard, not just acasual chat with executives, but amarkeron“how we want to be engaged”

“We believeagreements must include land returnsatsome point, cultural heritage protection, economic participation and long-term monitoring of allwork that comes beforeuswith this amazing opportunity,”hesaid.

“We are already working in partnership with offshore wind proponents. These partnerships are not simply commercial; they are about reconciliation, healing and self-determination. They show what it looks like when traditional owners sit at the table as equal partners, this is what ajust energy future requires.”

Regarding remediation and regeneration, Mr McDonald said it was necessary to deal honestly with what has been left behind, the healingof ‘Wurruck’ -Wurruck means country -after coal. Priorities for mine rehabilitation included sustainability. “Donot contaminate the water-that is, protect the water’s sovereignty and quality,” he said.

“Restore cultural heritage -tangibleand intangible. Intangible cultural heritage is not just ‘stones and bones’; it’s about stories that live in Country,

in waterways, in the air, the trees.

Look beyond the mine voids to whole landscapes, creating alegacy,landreturns, potentialcompensation one day -weare pretty open about that -and business development.”

Mr McDonald saidresources and leadership were pillars thatGLaWAC was building on, recognising the role of traditional owners in the process.

“These are non-negotiables, the foundation of genuine healing of country. From the Gunaikurnai perspective, and all traditional owners in Victoria, this abig priority for all of us,” he said.

“The energy transition must not repeat the exclusion of traditional owners, whichiswhat happened with the coal mining for decades. Government and industry must imbed cultural values into energy planning -afully resourced partnership to ensurethe benefits flowtocommunities.not just corporations.”

Mr McDonald said healing country was ashared responsibility. “If we do this together, with honesty and respect,then Gippslandcan show Australia andthe world how to deliver ajust energy transition,” he said.

Guidance from the elders council of the Gunaikurnai provided acultural governance framework: ‘Learn fromyesterday, be proactive today’.

“Aim for astrongand healthy mob and country tomorrow. This is the opportunity for us to do things differently, to walk with respect, to build an energy future for our homes and industries but also for the healing of Country,” Mr McDonald said.

Standing proud: Under theStatewide TreatyBill, theFirst People’s Assembly of Victoriawould becomeapermanent body

Photograph supplied

Wild DeerHunting &OutdoorsExpo returns to Lardner Park

Gippy Water customer surveyopen

GIPPSLAND Water’s annual customer satisfaction survey opens this week, giving customers the chance to provide feedback on theorganisation’s performance.

Customers who participate will go into the draw to win one of 10 $100 bill credits.

Gippsland Water managing director Sarah Cumming expressed the importance of the customer satisfaction survey.

“Everyone’s feedbackmatters and this is one of the many ways we get input from our customers,” she said.

“The resultsofthis survey will help us determine what we’re doing well and where we can improve across the organisation.

“We are an organisation that genuinely puts our customer’s interests first when making decisions, to deliver the best possible service.”

Arandom sampleofcustomers will receive an email inviting them to complete the survey, but all customers can participate and go into theprize draw.

The customersatisfactionsurvey is apartof awider research exercise completed alongside other regional Victorian waterorganisations.

Thesurveyisopen from todayuntil Friday, October 17.

To complete the survey or find out about other opportunities to provide feedback and input to Gippsland Water’s decision-making, visit www.gippswater.com.au/letstalk

THE Wild Deer Hunting and Outdoors Expo will returntoLardner Park, near Warragul, on October 11 and 12, with more than 10,000 visitors expected over the two-day event.

As Australia’s only dedicated deer hunting exhibition, the expo bringstogether enthusiasts, exhibitors, and experts from across the country.

Event manager Jamie Gilbertsaidthe expo catered not only to experienced hunters but also to anyone interested in learning about deer hunting and the outdoors.

“The expo is unique on the calendar because it brings together so many differentparts of the industry in one place,” he said.

“Visitors can see the latest gear, talk to experts, and learn about ethical huntingand conservation.”

This year, 130 exhibitors will showcase more than300 brands across hunting, camping, fishing, four-wheel-driving, and outdoor recreation. Local and regional businesses will also be represented, withvisitorsable to attend workshops, seelive demonstrations, and access information on safety, environmental care, and sustainable hunting practices.

Keynote speakers will appear across both days, including Paul Boag demonstrating deer 'caping', television presenter Rob Fickling, sustainable gameharvesting expert RossO’Meara,SBS Alone contestants Rick Petersen and Carla Pound and expert bow hunter Brad Murphy.

The WildDeer Expo has grown into amajor event on the outdoor calendar, attracting attendees from across Victoria and interstate.

Mr Gilbert said the combination of exhibitors, workshops, and guestspeakers has helped the expo become aone-stop event for anyone interested in hunting and outdoor lifestyles.

“While not everyfour-wheel driveenthusiast has hunting equipment,every hunter needs a4WD -so the equipment needed for hunters runs across many industries,” he said.

With free parking and easy access at Lardner Park, the event is expected to provide aboost to the local economy, with thousands of visitors staying in the region across the weekend.

Unique: Thisyears Expo brings together so manydifferent partsofthe industry. Photograph: supplied

COUNCIL BEAT

Full house for fast-paced debates

LATROBE City Council’s September meeting (held Monday, September 22) at Kernot Hall, saw fastpaced debates from afull house, for the first time in four months. Morwell River ward councillor Tracie Lund returned from herleave of absence recharged, weighing in confidentially on multiple topics. All other councilors were accounted for, as was Latrobe City chief executive Steve Piasante.

Get backonyour bus

Amotion was moved by Moe Ward Councillor (and MoeV/Linestationmaster) Adele Puglsey, surrounding the saftey of residents on public buses around Latrobe City.

Cr. Pugsleywas vocal on thematter, despite having lost her voice before the meeting had begun, addressing concerns brought to her by the public on anti-socialbehavior that had occurred recently, over two days. These reports related to not just local buses but also the inter-town routes between Moe, Morwell, and Traralgon.

“One of thesewas when somebody’s loafofbread was stolen, whichwas their lunchfor the whole week, so that does have ahugeimpact,” she told her colleague.

“The second incident is really quite concerning, as awhole bus was harassed by one passenger onboard.”

Cr Pugsleydetailed serious consequencesofthis incident, scaring off elderly residents from using the bus (many of whom use the serviceastheirsole mode of transport), and threatening the safety of drivers and PTV staff.

“We need to make sure the driversare safe in the workplaceaswell, so we should advocate to Transport Victoria to request additional resourcing of Authorised Officers on Latrobe City public bus routes.

Newborough ward councilor SharonGibson seconded,statingthat “we are seeing too much antisocial behavior and it isolates people who rely

on the PTV system, which leads to mental health decline and all kinds of issues”.

The motion was carried unanimously.

Paws fora plan

THE first strategic item fordecision was thatof the Domestic AnimalManagement Plan, which had closed submissions from the community, and was now put to council with areport of the findings to adopt the plan for 2026-2029.

Cr Lund made it her first action back in the seat to proposeanalternativemotion, which addedthe condition that council allocates $10,000 from the accumulated unallocated cash reservefor acat desexing trial program. She argued this was a reasonable request as thecostofdesexing is “a real barrier for some”, and lead to more unregistered fertile cats in the community, which puts further pressure on our pounds.

“Each cat costs around $200 to council,” Cr Lund wentontoquantify, “so we could support 40 of them.”

“It’s also effective as adatatrial, to see if it leads to higher registration rates that could show us how we might do things differently.”

These 40 free procedures were to be available to concession and pension card holders.

Cr Lund also emphasised how the plan could reduce abandonment and euthanasia rates.

Cr Morgan seconded and spoke on her support of the wider plan.

“We took in anumberofresponseswhenthe plan was put out to community consultation and as a result we can hopefully review the possibility of putting in place a24-hour cat curfew in the next financial year,” she said.

“The alternate motion measure the impactof accessible desexing, and of desexing at ahigher rate, which should matter to everybody, whether you love them (cats) or loathe them.”

Cr Gibson spoke in support as well.

“Cr Campbell and Iare on the animal welfare community, and the main complaints we have are barking dogs and roaming cats. There’s also a lot more than just cat desexing in the policy, so I encourage people to have alook at it, it might just alleviate alot more complaints,” Cr Gibson said.

Cr Campbell chimed in, lending her experience formally working in avet’s office.

“We had agreat programwhenIwas therethough not as good as this one -itdoes get people to come in, so Ithink working with the vets could be agood idea, and I’m sure they’ll get involved too,” she said.

The motion was carried unanimously. Interestingly, the report’s findingson“dogpoo” in Moe cemetery were not discussed.

DraftLatrobe City streetscapes

CR Darren Howe moved amotion endorsing the draft Latrobe City Streetscape Strategy, for it to be released for community feedback. The strategy aims to enhance the visuals, function, and environmental quality of streetscapes across the municipality, by means of:

 Increase tree canopy and green spaces;

 Standardise street furniture, paving, and amenities for easier maintenance and visual cohesion;

 Improve pedestrian and cyclist access;

 Upgrade roundabouts for safety, and;

 Minor parking adjustments to accommodate new trees, offset by additional Regional Car Parks Fund spaces.

Cr Pugsleyseconded the motion,saying she was excited by the community vision, which shebelieves the residents will enjoy, and is especially pleased of how apparent it is becoming that“we are all one city”.

Council-goers cantrust Sharon Gibsontoget

into the nitty-gritty, pointing outatypo in the plan listing Monash Road in Newborough as Monash Way. However, she was also on the fenceonthe reduction of carpark spaces that the canopies would introduce intothe city,something that is already hotly debated by the public in Traralgon. She urgeed all locals to looked over the plan and consider the three proposed paving suites to which she’d already decided her favourite, as well as the proposed roundabouts.

Cr Lund fumbled throughthe tongue-twisting of “streetscapes” when emphasising the accessibility andtownidentity the proposal could bring, which allows for greater social cohesion in what is a eclectic area of regional Victoria. Nobody opposed the motion, carried unanimouslyfor the public to look over.

Further motions presented in the meeting included apartial road discontinuance in Traralgon, an amendment to the city’s signage scheme, quashing crime in the valley, and the finances managing and maintaining Old Gippstown Reserve. These will receive their own dedicated articles in the Express,respectively.

Acknowledgements

NOTABLE acknowledgements were made by Cr Campbell, of the Mid Gippsland Football-Netball League, at the grand final in Yinnar the weekend previous.

“Over 5000 people turned up, and it was good to steal it from South (Gippsland),” shouting out all the volunteers working behind the scenes.

Cr Pugsley, who has lost her voice prior to the meeting, extended thanks to Lifecare suicide prevention session run by Mark Bateman, “Which was verypowerful and covered topics thathavetouched us all in one way or another”.Alsomentioned were the Rotary Children’s Art Show, Latrobe Valley Eisteddford, and the Ultimate FrisbeeCompetition held in Traralgon.

Uncertainty hinders workers’ mental health

By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

UNCERTAINTY surrounds the inevitable closure of the region’s brown coal industry, and equally discussions around the potential stress of workers rises.

Organisations were broughttogether recently to discuss the foundation of amental health assembly for the energy sector, which centresinthe Latrobe Valley.

The meeting, held at Traralgon Neighbourhood Learning House, was presented by EmilieAbou Abdallah,suicide preventioncoordinator at Wesley LifeForce.

Established in 1995, Wesley LifeForcewas founded on the idea of education and empowerment in taking action to tackle suicide, which comes in

the formofcommunitynetworkingand suicide prevention training.

The network has already set up bodies in East Gippslandand soon in South Gippsland, whileMs AbouAbdallah wasapproached Marian Macdonald fromStandBy Support AfterSuicide to thrust forward the concept of this specific group not limited by acertain area.

Ms Abou Abdallah coined this as an “identity group” in relation to the energy sector.

“We get approached by someone in the community or from another service provider to talk about the gap and certain needs,” she told the Express

“I did my research, we visit other stakeholders, and Iwas able to locate the gap and see what’s missing and things that we didn’t know before.

“We’reabletolocatethe risk factors and protective

factors and how much support the people in the energy industry,the individualsand their families, and how much they need support.”

Those within the industry are subject to demanding, high levels of responsibility, and often remote types of work, which the creeping up closures of the neighbouring powerstations also invitingconcerns of job security.

It wasrevealed thatoftenthisolder,generally male demographic of worker are increasingly unaware of the services out there to support them if need be.

“It’snot only theclosureorthe transition. The energyindustry in generalneeds support due to theshift work and FIFO …they have their own unique risk factors,” Ms Abou Abdallah said.

“This networkwouldbesupporting them and

supporting the people in transition, because they have additional risk factors of becoming unemployed,not having an income …readjusting to the community, readjusting to anormal lifestyle.”

She also added that this strain can also lead to substance abuse and potential domestic violence, to accompany the possibility of suicide.

Those that attended the initial meeting included representativesfromLatrobe Regional Health, GippslandPrimary Health Network, Lifeline Gippsland, Playgroup Victoria, StandBy Support after Suicide, and Neami National.

Anyone interested in joining at acommittee level can get in touch with Emilie Abou Abdallah via: emilie.abouabdallah@wesleymission.org.au

Newborough Bowling Club

Offshore wind has little flow-on benefit for Valley: report

By PHILIP HOPKINS

THE Latrobe Valley is unlikely to benefit from the promise that thousands of jobs will be created in Gippsland from the construction of offshore wind farms, according to anew parliamentary report.

The report was written by Monashintern student Skye Blackshaw for state Member for Morwell Martin Cameron as part of the Victorian Parliamentary Internship Program.

The reportsaidthe Victorian government had promised that the re-establishmentofthe SEC would create thousands of jobs, with afocus on prioritising the Latrobe Valley. The emphasis was on new incoming energy industries, such as wind, solar and hydrogen and other non-specified non-energy industries.

"In practice, there has been little government follow-through on these initiatives. For instance, the Victorian government has advertises that its offshore wind projects willcreate3000ongoing jobs, enoughtoaccommodate all 1300 workers still employed in CFP (coal-fired power)," the report said.

"However, the Victorian government has adopted averybroad approach to the Gippsland region, neglectingthe additional vulnerabilitiesexperienced by the Latrobe Valley."

Thereport said despite the Valley being home to Victoria'spower generation, and its desperationfor employment opportunities, local workers would still have to compete with others across all of Gippsland for these jobs.

"Such sustained lackofemployment perpetuates housing unaffordability, social isolation, poorhealth and wellbeing and, ultimately, socio-economicdisadvantagethat willpersist long afterthe industry is gone," the report said.

Pledge to reduce offshore wind fees

THE federal government has promised to lower annual fees charged to offshore wind developers in abid to avert aslowdown of investment in themajor renewable energy sector, the Australian Financial Review has reported.

The move to slash red tape and financial burdensholding up innovation follows an earlier reportthat Origin Energy-backed Navigator North was putting on hold a proposed $8 billion Victorian offshorewind farm amid uncertaintyabout the economic viability of the industry.

The government’s new economic incentives include waiving annual levies applied to feasibility; research and demonstration licences; and cutting yearly fees on transmission and infrastructure licences by half.

Application fees for research and demonstration licences will be reduced from $300,000 to $20,000, and fees for transmission and infrastructure licences by half.

Licence fees are applied to developers to guarantee exclusive rights to explorethe feasibility of sites while also preventing the practice of speculatively buying and holding large areas of prime seabed.

The AFR reported that annual fees of up to $1 million have become onerous for companies trying to enter asector fraught with high investment risks.

Climate Change and Energy Minister, Chris Bowen, said cutting red tapewould would help developers focus time and funds on projects that would create regional jobs but stressed the government would not abandon itsobligationstoensuresocial licence.

“The Albanese government is cutting fees and red tape while continuing to demand best practicecommunity engagementfor potential offshore wind projects,” he said.

“We want to make it easier for developers to build an Australian offshore wind industry, create thousands of great long-term jobs and generatecleaner, cheaper power for millions of homes.”

Ms Blackshaw, as part of the internship program, was tasked with researchingthe socio-economic impacts of the impending closure of the Latrobe Valley's coal-fired power stations.

The report analysed the impact of the Hazelwood power station's closure as aharbinger for the subsequent shot-term impacts likely to occur after the closure of Loy Yang Aand Yallourn power stations.

"A series of recurring themes emerged homelessness and unaffordable housing, loss of identity and community, community wellbeing, job insecurity, and the flow-on affects to the local economy," the report said.

While privatisation and the dissolution of the SEC affected public housing, Hazelwood's closure significantly reduced demand to migrate to the area,depressing the housing market and creating a"two-speed economy".

"Mortgage holders can no longaffordthe area without their formerstablesalaries,but cannot resell their properties with the significant depreciation in price,while incoming migrants have enough income to outbid local bidders," the report said.

Suchincreases had increasedhomelessness, "which has been particularly noticeable since the closure of Hazelwood". "Latrobe City Council now estimatesthe number of homeless persons to be close to 600, afurther 51 per cent increase since 2021."

While this could be due to the COVID-19

pandemic and cost-of-living crisis,"theselater events have exacerbated the pre-existing impacts of the Hazelwood closureuponhousing and its affordability".

The report said the loss of community wellbeing with the loss of the SEC and the power industry would worsen with the closures of Yallourn and Loy Yang. Demand for mentalhealth services immediately rose after the Hazelwood closure, which raised concerns about "the potential for further mental ill-health and demand for related services after the closures of Loy Yang and Yallourn".

"Moreover, domestic violence has gradually increased since the closure of Hazelwood. In 2024, the LV ranked second in Victoria for instances of family violence per capitaand experienced a14.7 per cent increase in calls for assistance to police," the reportsaid.

TheramificationsofHazelwood's closurefor the broader LV economy "cannot be understated".

"Energy Australia estimates that each coal worker employs an additional four to five workers in the community," the report said. Traditionally, coal-related salaries provided relatively high disposable income, which supported local businesses and athriving city centre.

Local businessactivity, first hit by privatisation, "significantly declined further with the loss of Hazelwood". The average income of the region wasnow 80 per cent of the median state income in

Aseries of recurring themes emerged homelessnessand unaffordable housing, loss of identity and community, community wellbeing, job insecurity, and the flow-on affects to the local economy

Skye

Blackshaw

-Monash

intern student

2024."Strikingly, almost 29 per cent of residents earn less than $26,000 per annum."

The report said the decline in local business had tow key impacts -unemployment and low education. While unemployment had recovered to 6.6per cent in 2021 -still higherthan the regional Victorian average -but more than20per cent of youngpeopleaged15-24were not in school, furthereducation or employment. "These effects will likely worsen after the closures of Loy Yang and Yallourn if younger generations are not provided with economic or educational support."

The reportrecommended that theVictorian government provide additional, targeted policy measures specific to the Latrobe Valley as one of themost disadvantaged regions in Victoria.Other recommendations included:

-Introduce job quotas for Valley residents in Gippsland-based renewable energy projects.

-Promote the importance of education, particularly for former coal workers.

-Installmore public housing and build-to-rent infrastructure.

-Push the Valley as a'visitor economy' and encourage use of Valley sport facilities for professional and semi-professional sporting events.

-Rehabilitate old mining infrastructure as a tourist attraction.

-Continue existing opportunitiessuchasthe expansion of Latrobe Valley health services and pursuit of the Japanese HESC hydrogen project.

-More research on viable industries that could be attracted to the Valley, such as air mobility.

Mr Cameron saidthe report's findings highlighted the Allan Labor government's failures in the Latrobe Valley, particularly the impending impact of the power station closures.

"Renewables, at the current rate of investment and construction, absolutely will not create enough baseloadpower in time for the closureofcoal-fired power stations," he said.

"The Latrobe Valley has been completely neglected in talks about transition, despite being ground zero for energy generation."

TAFE Gipps, Marinuspartnership

TAFE Gippsland has announced anew formal partnership with Marinus Link, which has akey role in the clean energy transition for Gippsland.

The organisations signed amemorandum of understanding (MoU) to work together in the best interests of local industry to provide high quality training opportunities for the clean energy sector.

TAFE Gippsland chief executive Laura Macpherson said industry insights and expertise provided by Marinus Link would be instrumental in TAFE Gippsland’s work in designing course content for training in the clean energy sector of thefuture.

“TheMarinus Link project is an important project for Gippsland's clean energy future, and TAFE Gippsland is proud to be akey partner in itssuccess,” she said.

“We've formalised anew partnershipwith

Marinus Linkbysigning an MoU to ensure the project has the skilled workforce it needs.

“This collaboration will createhigh-quality training opportunities right here in Gippsland, giving local people the chance to build rewarding careers in the clean energy sector and play adirect role in our region's energy transition.

“By working together, we're not just delivering a major infrastructure project; we're investing in our community and empowering the next generation of energy professionals.”

Marinus Link chiefexecutive Stephanie McGregor said partnering with TAFE Gippsland would ensure the development of askilled workforce needed to build and maintain the undersea and underground electricityand data interconnector from Tasmania to the Latrobe Valley.

“MarinusLink will deliver benefitslong after construction is complete,” she said.

“Partnering with TAFE Gippsland means we can help growaskilledlocal workforce thatwill support jobs, industry, and communities well into the renewable energy future.

“With Marinus Link in place,Tasmaniaand Victoria will share much more electricity, pairing Victoria’s wind and solar with Tasmania’s flexible hydropower system and geographically diverse wind. This is apowerful synergy that strengthens the grid for both states.

“The project doesn’t just enable more electricity to flow -italso promotes investment in new clean energy projectsand industry, in both Tasmania and Victoria.”

Progressatmagnesium plant

By PHILIP HOPKINS

LATROBE Magnesium has begun producing magnesium oxide from its Morwell demonstration plant, paving the waytouse its patented technology to produce magnesium for the international market from the Latrobe Valley’s brown coal fly ash.

The stage one demonstration plant, whoseopening and operation were delayed by bad weather, is designed to produce 1000 tonnes of magnesium per annum from fly ash, awaste product from the Yallourn Power Station.

Production of magnesium oxide (MgO) is the prerequisite for proceeding to the next stageofthe operation,acommercial plant withacapacityof more than 10,000 tonnes per annum of magnesium metal.

LatrobeMagnesiumchief executive, David Paterson, said the milestone validated the core proprietary components of the company’s patented magnesium metal production process and further de-risked operations, representinganother significant step forward.

“We thank our shareholders for their continued support. This update reflects our commitment to transparency and keeping shareholders informed,” he said.

Acompany spokesman, Sal Awad, said Latrobe Magnesiumhad finishedcommissioning the demonstrationplant and had successfullycompleted theplant start-up.

“We have receivedmore than200 tonnes of fly ashfrom Yallourninthe past two weeks and have successfully produced magnesium oxide. Now the operational team will continue to process fly ash, and produce more magnesium oxide,” he said.

“Continuing operation will gives us an opportunity to better understand and build knowledge of the process and how the plant works, and thus gain more technical knowledge to improve the process for stages two and three.”

Mr Awad said the next step in stage one was to finish building the remaining plant -about afourmonth construction time -toproduce magnesium metal.

“The plan is to finish the plant, take the magnesium oxide and start making magnesium metal,” he said.

“The next step for us is to completethe construction and commissioning of thefull-scale plantwith atargettomakemagnesium metal by end of the first quarter of 2026.”

Mr Awad said the back end of the plant would house the thermal reduction process.

“We take the magnesium oxide we make from the fly ash, then processitsafely in reduction

furnaces to produce magnesiummetal and supplementary cementitious material(i.e. Portland Cement -another saleable byproduct). By planning to continue operations as long as possible, Mr Awad said, “we buildupthe knowledgeand confidence of our operators. There are about 30 now, who work four shifts 24/7”.

The fly ash is supplied from Yallourn by truck.Mr Awad said “once Hazelwood and the government finalisetheir agreement, we hope to gain access to Hazelwood fly ash as well. Hazelwood ash is easier to process,” he said.

Latrobe’s original plan was to obtain the fly ash from Hazelwood, but negotiations stopped after the power station closed. However, Mr Awad said there was already enough fly ash at Yallourn.

Between now and Yallourn’s scheduled closure, the power station would produce two million tonnes of fly ash.

“If we build our commercial plant to produce 10,000 tonnes of magnesium annually, over20 years we could produce 200,000 tonnes of magnesium,” Mr Awad said. This is based on aratio of 10 tonnes of fly ash to one tonne of magnesium.

Mr Awadsaidtherewas alot of emphasis on sustainability in the Latrobe project. The company’s patented hydrometallurgical extractionprocess is designedfor low CO emissions, and plansto be featured by the Net Zero Economy Authority, afederally-funded agency thataimstopromote and help regional workforce and communities to understand the net zero transition.

The use of fly ash, awaste product from brown coal power plants to create valuable materials, promotes acircular economy. The project helps address the growing global demand for magnesium and diversifies supply chains away from asingle dominant source, which is asignificant concern for countries like the United States.

Mr Paterson was in the US over the past two weeks and accompanied the Australian US ambassador, former prime minister Kevin Rudd, in the Austrade minerals delegation for strategic talks on collaborationand supply chain developments within the US.

There is strong interest from the high-value US market, which is actively seeking reliable sources of critical minerals like magnesium to reduce relianceonChina. Under the US-Australia free trade agreement, magnesium produced in Australia is exempt from any import duty.

Magnesium is classifiedasacriticalmineral in multiplecountries, withnocurrentproducers acrossJapan, North America,Europe and the Middle East LMG chief operating officer, Ronan Gillen, last

year estimated construction of the commercial plant would create more than 300 jobs, while the fully operating plant would have50-to-60 permanent jobs.There was enough ash from the Yallourn Power Station for 50 years’ operation, he said.

According to LMG, global magnesium demand is forecast to double to two million tonnes by 2027.

Magnesium is increasingly used in the manufacture of items such as car parts, electric vehicles, laptop computers, mobile phones and power tools.

Mr Gillensaidhigh quality magnesium would be produced from the Yallourn flyash,with the whole operation cleaning up some of the environmental legacy of the Valley.

“There are no downstream tailings or waste,” he said.

The LMG plant is located in Morwell on the site of Don di Fabrizio’s former steel construction business, whose steel fabrication was used in building the Loy Yang Power Station.

LMG is also in a50-50 joint venture to build an internationalmega-plant in Sarawak that aims to produce more than 100,000 tonnes of magnesium

annually. High energy and labour costs mitigate against building such ahuge plant in Australia.

The Latrobe Valley promises other sources of fly ash as the Hazelwood mine site is rehabilitated and Loy Yang power stations eventually close.

“No matter what other international ventures comeabout, the Latrobe Valley is our spiritual home, hence the name ‘Latrobe Magnesium’,” Mr Gillen said.

Latrobe Magnesium successfully produced the world’s firstsustainable magnesium oxide from fly ash earlier in 2024, akey step toward commercial production. The company received aresearch and development rebatefrom the Australian Tax Office, boosting its finances and supporting innovative extraction technology.

LMG has been doing research and development on its pioneering technology for 20 years, with variousforms of technologytried. The proprietary hydromet process has beenextensively tested at laboratories and the CSIRO at acost of more than $20 million

Readytogo: Ash received and stored in the bunker ready forstart-up

Filling up: Magnesium oxide being loaded intobags.

Photographs supplied

HOROSCOPES

by JoanneMadeline Moore

September 29 -October 5, 2025

zones, so harmonious partnerships and creative projects are highlighted If you combine diplomacy with dynamism (and Ram charm with a sense of adventure) then you’ll sail through any temporary challenges Balance is the key Your motto is from actress Claire Danes (who has the Sun in Aries and the Moon in Libra): “Relationships are a constant negotiation and balance ”

Courtesy of Venus (your patron planet) a problem involving a child teenager or close friend should start to improve, and many Bulls will feel a creativity boost as well With the Sun and Mercury both moving through your health-and-wellbeing zone, find a diet and exercise routine that suits you right here and right now Unhappily single? Don’t sit around waiting for love to fall into your lap With Mars visiting your partnership zone, it’s time to be proactive

This week Jupiter squares your ruler Mercury, which can lead to impulsive behaviour and rash decisions So slow down and think things through before you speak and act With Uranus visiting your sign, expect the unexpected! A disappointing rejection one day could lead to a welcome opportunity the next Be inspired by birthday great singer and actress Julie Andrews (who turns 90 on Wednesday): “When one door closes, another window opens ”

Librans love to be pampered and preened but its time to jump out of your comfort zone and shake up your usual routine! Jupiter is visiting your public reputation zone and Uranus is revving up your adventure zone Which encourages you to do things differently, as you banish boredom and initiate positive changes So your motto is from birthday great, political and peace activist Mohandas Gandhi: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world ”

Courtesy of the Sun and Mercury in your solitude zone, you’re not in the mood to mix and mingle

So keep a low profile this week as you relax, recharge and self-nurture Plus – with the Moon and Pluto linking up in your family zone – secrets from the past could boomerang back, as some old karma catches up with you Expect vivid childhood memories to return or the resurfacing of a sensitive issue Smart Scorpios will clear the emotional debris and move on

Jupiter (your power planet) is in your money-from-others zone which often coincides with financial luck and a boost to cashflow But this week – with Mercury squaring Jupiter – any gains could be gobbled up by burgeoning bills increasing expenses or extravagant impulse buys So plan accordingly and don’t fritter good fortune away With Venus visiting your career zone, nurture your connections with work colleagues, clients and/or customers

Remember that Jupiter (planet of optimism, growth and prosperity) is visiting your sign which only happens every 12 years Between now and June 30 (when Jupiter transits into Leo) it will be easier to initiate positive changes than at other times So make the most of the opportunities that are around! Your motto is from peace activist (and birthday great) Mohandas Gandhi: “Our greatest ability as humans is not to change the world, but to change ourselves ”

Calling all Cats - are you making the most of your clever mind? This week the Sun and Mercury activate your communication and education zones So conversation, passionate debate, informal study, research and creative thinking will take you far But – in order to avoid misunderstandings – do your best to convey your ideas in a clear and precise way It’s also a good time to dig deeper into a relationship problem – the answer is waiting for you to find it

Personal projects and long-term partnerships (of the romantic, platonic and business variety) are highlighted this week You may get a knock-back as Saturn tests commitment and perseverance but don t get bogged down with negative self-talk and constant criticism Keep the mood upbeat and the conversation uplifting! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, actress Julie Andrews: “Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th ”

The Sun and Mercury light up your career zone, so utilise your drive and communication skills to attract opportunities into your world Then use your can-do Capricorn attitude to take action Mars (visiting your hopes-and-dreams zone) reminds you to be proactive and keep setting goals Preparation is the key As singer/actress (and birthday great) Julie Andrews observes: “Work hard, apply yourself and be ready Then, when an opportunity comes, you can grab it ”

COPYRIGHTJoanne Madeline Moore 2025

Flirt alert! With Venus and Uranus in two of your relationship zones (plus the Sun and Mercury in Libra) you’re at your flirtatious best as you charm the cynics and dazzle the doubters (When amorous Aquarians are in charm mode, you’re hard to resist ) Already attached? Its time to reboot a tired relationship with some good old-fashioned romance Singles – are you searching for your soulmate? Be on the lookout for a gregarious Gemini or a lusty Leo

This week’s stars highlight close partnerships, intimacy, secrets, trust issues and joint finances With Saturn back in Pisces (until February 14) you will make messy mistakes and experience disappointments along the way But don t let them deter you from your chosen path With hard work and a positive attitude you can turn things around As writer (and birthday great) Truman Capote wrote: “Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor ”

Success for local apprentice at Vic Training Awards

TAFE Gippsland engineeringfabrication student

Amber Leyshan has been named Apprentice of the Year at the 2025 Victorian Training Awards. Amber’s career path has been anythingbut typical. After deferring ateaching degree and managingaBunnings tradesdepartment, she was inspired by her tradie customers to start an engineering and fabrication apprenticeship with AGL at LoyYangPowerStation, enrolling in a Certificate III in Engineering- Fabrication Trade (Boilermaking) at TAFEGippsland.

Her achievements don’t stop there. Amber also received the Community Impact Award at TAFE Gippsland’sinauguralEducation Awards in Sale, recognising her outstanding contributiontoher

industry and the Gippsland community.

“Amber’s successisaproudmomentfor her, her educators and her employer,” TAFE Gippsland director of educational delivery Linda Austin said.

“It’s atestament to the quality training and support we provide. Amber has been apassionate advocate for women in trades, regularly promoting trade careers and inspiringthe next generationof skilled workers.”

Determined to excel in amale-dominated field, Amber has gained extra welding certifications, mastered advanced techniques and won the WorldSkills Gippsland Regional competition, achieving the highest welding score in Victoria.

exam reforms

By AIDAN KNIGHT

THE state government has accepted all recommendations of an independent review into the failuresoflastyear’sVCE exams, nearly ayear after 65 subjects were affected during the 2024 examination period.

In December 2024, the Express reported that 56 of 116 subject exams were compromised after parts of the sample materialswerepublished online ahead of testing.Insome cases,fullquestionswere exposed.Students, parents,and teachers faced months of uncertainty as results were paused for investigation.

was appointed to leadthe authority. Smith had headed ESA for eight years and was recognised foroutstanding service in that role.

“I want to assure everyone studying their VCE this year that the VCAA is fullyfocused on delivering asuccessful 2025 exam period, and students, schools, and families can have every confidence we will do just that,” Mr Smith said.

The review made 11 recommendations,all accepted by the government. Theyincludethe appointment of an independent monitor, tighter financialoversight, clearer operational policy, stronger exam processes, and along-term plan to protect exam integrity as technology evolves. EducationMinister Ben Carroll described last year’s errors as causing “unacceptable stress” for students.

Students eventually received resultsthree weeks later than expected, after the Victorian Curriculumand AssessmentAuthority (VCAA) reviewed responses for potentially influenced answers. Then-VCAA chief executive Kylie White resigned in the fallout. Interim boss Marcia Devlin apologised and promised every exam would be reviewed to ensure fair outcomes.

The review foundthe VCAA lacked proper governance and asustainable budget, and said students had faced “additional stress” after already enduring disrupted learning during the pandemic.

The reformsare expected to takethree years to fully implement. Mr Smith will remain chief executive throughout the process to ensure accountability.

Changes already in place include removing sample cover sheets from public websites and adding morequality control stepsahead of this year’s exams.

The board was stood down, and Education Services Australiachief executive Andrew Smith

Latrobe Valley students completingVCE this year are unlikely to face delays, but manyremain waryafter last year’s experience.

Worthy winner: From left, RhondaNoble,ScottWright, AlexTerranova,Amber Leyshan, Linda Austin, Justin Falluand Jason Clements celebrate at the 2025 Victorian Training Awards in Melbourne

Photograph supplied

Photo: istock

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ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

THE AMAZING RACE AUSTRALIA: CELEBRITY EDITION 10, Monday, 7.30pm

Energetic host Beau Ryan always largerthanlife, but in Monday’se theRace,the former NRL playert anotherlevel, literally –appearing billboard above thevibrant street Taipei to direct the fiveremaining teams (including BigBrotherhost Gretel Killeen and her daughter Epiphany,both pictured) to their challenge. From embracinglocal c at the bustlingmarkets to testing gaming skills at an arcade and trac “techno dancinggods”,the teams adventureisasmorgasbord of tra generation cultural experiences in

Pilgrimage: The Road ThroughThe Alps.(PG R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club Address 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 1.55 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow.(R) 5.55 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 7.30

8.00 Hard Quiz. (PGs)

8.30 Mother AndSon. (PGdl)Arthur noticesMaggie’s hearing has declined. 9.00 TheAssembly:Guy Sebastian. (PG, R) 9.45 Guy Montgomery’sGuy Mont Spelling Bee(NZ) (PG,R)

10.30 If You’re Listening. (R) 10.50 ABC Late News. 11.05 The Business. (R) 11.25 Planet America. (R) 11.55 YouCan’t Ask That. (M, R) 12.25 Grand Designs. (R) 1.10 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 2.00 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

6.00 MastermindAustralia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 ThePeople Vs Robodebt. (Mal)

8.30 Secrets Of Flying Scotsman. Alan Pegler embarks on atourofAmerica. 9.30 Code Of Silence. (Mls) Alison and Liam go on alavish hotel trip

10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 COBRA (MA15+av) 11.45 Freezing Embrace. (MA15+av,R) 1.30 BillyConnolly: Great American Trail. (Man, R) 2.25 Curious Traveller. (PG, R) 3.30 J Schwanke’sLifeInBloom. (R) 4.30 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

appears pisode of takes it to g on adigital tsof g t next cuisine g their ckingdown s’Taiwanese aditional and nextn the crowded city

SEVEN (7,6)

6am Morning Programs. 8.00 DD India News Hour 9.00 Urban Conversion. (R) 10.00 The Lost World Of Joseph Banks. (Mv,R) 11.00 EyeInThe Sky:Nordic Wonders.(Premiere PG) 12.00 BBC NewsAtTen. 12.30 France 24 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight.(R) 3.30 Such WasLife. (R) 3.40 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.45 The CookUp. (R) 4.15 Who Do YouThink YouAre? (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 TheMorningShow. (PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 SevenNews With AlexCullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PG) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies 3.00 TheChase. 4.00 SevenNews At 4. 5.00 TheChaseAustralia.

6.00 SevenNews. 7.00 Home AndAway. (PGav)

7.30 RFDS. (Return, Ma) Abus crash bringsthe team back together

8.30 Off TheGrid With Colin And Manu (Ml) Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel head to Tairua to catch akingfish.

9.30 House Of Wellness. (PG) Experts share advice on living well.

10.30 Chicago Fire. (Ma)

11.30 Lopez Vs.Lopez (Return, PG)

12.00 Imposters (Madlsv, R)

1.00 Travel Oz. (R) 1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise

NINE (9,8) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Four Corners.(R) 11.00

PICK OF THE WEE

IWAS ACTUALLYTHERE ABC TV,Tuesday, 8pm

Since the advents of rollingnew coverage and social media, smar footage and eyewitness account made it easier thanevertoexperie events as they occur and probably we understand what hasunfolde thenewscycle –and the n attention –moveson This movingseries down the headl revisit keymom in history,as t those who ac lived them. T return is ah wrenching r of theFebr 2009,Blac bushfires, survivo resp and com me gene sharingth personal stories that then Victori John Brumbyde as “the worstev history of the state

ws rtphone shave ence major ythink that ed. But nation’s nswiftly sslows lines to ments toldby ctually Tuesday’s eartretelling ruary,7 ck Saturday with ors, first ponders d mmunity mbers erously heir from aday ianPremier escribed verinthe .”

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 Today 9.00 Today Extra. (PG)

3.00 Tipping Point (PG) 4.00 9NewsAfternoon 4.30[VIC]TippingPoint Australia.(PG) 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30[VIC]WINNews.

6.00 9News

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 TheBlock. (PGl) Thecontestants’ families visit.

8.45 Clarkson’s Farm: Calculating. (Ml) Jeremy Clarkson and KalebCooper findout how profitable theirprojects and farming havebeen this year

10.05 TheGrand Tour (Ml) The boys takea bumpy ride across Colombia. 11.20 9NewsLate. 11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 12.40 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop.(R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory.(PGa) 4.30 ACurrent Affair (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

9GEM (92,81) 7TWO (72, 62) SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 4.10pm Andy’sPrehistoric Adv 4.25 Super Monsters. 4.40 Ariel. 4.50 Bluey. 5.00 Peppa Pig. 5.15 Big Lizard. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.35 Peter Rabbit. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 6.00 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.20 Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 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

6am Grandpas. (2019,PGal, Spanish) 7.45 The MovieShow. 8.20

At Lughnasa.(1998, PGa) 10.00 Open The Wall. (2014, German) 11.40 An

At My Table. (1990,Malns) 2.30pm Widows’ Peak. (1994,PGalv) 4.25 The Band’sVisit. (2007, PGls,Arabic, English, Hebrew) 6.00 The

Of The Fakir.(2018,PGalsv) 7.50 Blow Dry.(2001, Mals) 9.30 Someday We’ll Tell Each Other Everything. (2023,MA15+as, German) Midnight Vampire Seeking Consenting Person. (2023,Malv, French) 1.40 The Tunnel (Part 1) (2001) 3.20 Late Programs.

6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal HostedbyGrant Denyer

7.30 DogsBehaving (Very) Badly Australia. (PGal) Astaffychases moving tyres. 8.30 TheGilded Age. (Man) Marian learns more about Mrs Chamberlain. George makes adeal to help Bertha. 9.40 Elsbeth. (Mv,R) Aplastic surgeon is found dead.

DRAMA (12,

Back from the brink: Kinglake resident JasonLynnstayedto fightthe firesonBlack Saturday.

Thursday, October 2

ABC (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (Final, R) 10.40 Back Roads. (PG, R) 11.10 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R) 11.40 If You’reListening. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Mal, R) 1.55 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 2.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.10 Long Lost Family (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6.00

And Specks. (PG, R)

6.30 HardQuiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Back Roads: Lucindale, South Australia. (PG) Kristy O’Brien visits Lucindale.

8.30 Grand Designs New Zealand. Acouple work on three projects.

9.15 Mystery Road: Origin. (Mal, R) Jay’sbrother Sputty is implicated in amurder

10.10 Take 5With Zan Rowe: Mark Coles Smith. (PGl, R) 10.40 ABC Late News.

10.55 The Business. (R)

11.10 Grand Designs. (PG, R)

12.00 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 12.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s 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 The Secret Life Of The Zoo. 9.20 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.45 The Mysterious Benedict Society 10.35 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 2.00pm This Is Indian Country 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 YarningCultureThrough Film. 5.30 Te Ao With Moana. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Great Blue Wild. 7.29 NITV Weather 7.30 Going Places. 8.30 Reservation Dogs. 9.30 MOVIE: Unforgiven. (1992) 11.50 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The People Vs Robodebt. (Mal, R) 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 3.30 Such WasLife. (R) 3.40 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Who Do YouThink YouAre?(PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 9/11: One Day In America: It’sAll Gone, Kid. (Final, Ma) TwoMarines and aparamedic search for survivors.

8.20 Heston Blumenthal: Life With Bipolar (Ma) Heston Blumenthal talks about his bipolar disorder

9.30 Snowpiercer (Mv) Layton struggles to governthe survivors.

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Davos 1917. (Premiere) 11.45 Blue Lights. (Malv,R)

2.00 Billy Connolly: Great American Trail. (Ma, R) 2.50 Curious Traveller.(R) 3.50 JSchwanke’sLife In Bloom. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Addicted Australia. 1.35 Making Waves: Extraordinary Women. 2.10 History’sGreatest Of All-Time With Peyton Manning. 3.00 Insight. 4.00 News. 4.05 WorldWatch. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 8Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island. 10.10 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 8.55 Grandpas. (2019, PGal, Spanish) 10.45 The Tunnel (Part 1) (2001) 12.30pm The Tunnel (Part 2) (2001) 2.20 The Movie Show 2.55 Thirteen Days. (2000, PGal) 5.30 The Grass Harp. (1995, PGal) 7.30 Amadeus. (1984, Mans) 10.25 The Lives Of Others. (2006, MA15+s, German) 1am Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away (PGav) Tragedy rocks Summer Bay

8.30 Jim Jefferies And Friends. (Premiere, MA15+ls) Jim Jefferies reminds Australians of their duty to uphold acertain nationwide practical joke.

9.30 The Amazing Race. (Return, PG) The racers kick offthe season in Amsterdam, wherethey face classic game pieces and unexpected twists right offthe bat. 11.00 Gatecrashers. (Premiere) Alighthearted take on the week of racing.

12.00 Life. (Malsv,R)

1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 1.30 Harry’sPractice. (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 NRL Grand Final Countdown. (Ml) Acount down to the 2025 NRL Grand Final.

10.00 MOVIE: John Wick. (2014, MA15+lv,R)Anex-hit man comes out of retirement to track down the gangsters who took everything from him. Keanu Reeves, Ian McShane.

12.00

6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 6.30 HardQuiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.35 Gardening Australia. Costa lends Millie ahandtobuild amini deck. 8.35 Professor T. (Mav) Aprominent barrister and his second wife are found shot dead in their home. 9.20 HardQuiz. (PGs, R) Presented by TomGleeson.

9.55 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R) Arthur notices Maggie’s hearing has declined.

10.20 ABC Late News.

10.40 The Assembly: Guy Sebastian. (PG, R) 11.25 Silent Witness. (Malv,R)

12.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles. (PGa, R)

8.25 Lost Temples Of Cambodia. (PG, R) Pauline Carroll travels to Cambodia.

9.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt: The Pharaohs’ Megacity (PG) Archaeologists hunt for clues in Alexandria. 10.15 SBS WorldNewsLate. 10.45 Catch Me AKiller.(Malsv) 11.45 Rogue Heroes. (Malv,R) 2.00 Qatar: ADynasty With Global Ambitions. (PGav,R) 3.00 Curious Traveller.(R) 4.00 JSchwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 11.40 Amadeus. (1984, Mans) 2.35pm The Band’sVisit. (2007, PGls, Arabic, English, Hebrew) 4.15 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir (2018, PGalsv) 6.00

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Dr Harry Cooper helps acorgi. 8.30 MOVIE: Ticket To Paradise. (2022, Ml) Adivorced couple team up and travel to Bali to stop their daughter from getting married. George Clooney,Julia Roberts, Kaitlyn Dever

10.45 Motorway Patrol. (PGl, R) Abreakdown leads to some dodgy towing plans.

11.15 GetOn Extra. Alook at the weekend’sbestracing.

11.45 Healthy,Wealthy &Wise. (PG, R)

12.45 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv,R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Find My Country House Australia. Hosted by Catriona Rowntree.

8.30 MOVIE: Expend4bles. (2023, MA15+alsv) Aragtag team of mercenariesmusttrack down an international terrorist who is determined to start World WarIII. Jason Statham, Sylvester Stallone, Curtis Jackson.

MOVIE: The Foreigner (2017, MA15+alv,R)JackieChan.

Saturday, October 4

ABC (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7,6)

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.25 Beyond Paradise. (PG, R) 1.25 Professor T. (Mav,R) 2.10 I, Jack Wright. (Mal, R) 3.00 The Larkins. (PG, R) 3.50 Julia Zemiro’sHome Delivery.(PG, R) 4.15 The Assembly (PG, R) 5.00 Take 5WithZan Rowe. (PGl, R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Australian Story: Striking A Chord– Astrid Jorgensen. (R) Looks at Astrid Jorgensen. 6.30 Back Roads: Lucindale, South Australia. (PG, R) Kristy O’Brien visits Lucindale.

7.00 ABC News. Alook at the top stories of the day

7.30 Beyond Paradise. (Return, Ma) Humphrey takes part in aplay.

8.30 ReturnToParadise. (Mv,R)

An Australian expat police detective returns to her hometown where she helps solve murders.

9.30 Mystery Road: Origin. (Mal, R) Jay is frustrated at Simmo’s stance that Sister Kerry’sdeath wasanaccident. Jay’sbrother Sputty is implicated in amurder.

10.30 I, Jack Wright (Final, Mal, R) 11.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Bing. 6.05 Bananas In Pyjamas. 6.20 Peppa Pig. 6.25 Wiggle. 6.40 Shaun The Sheep. 6.45 Paddington. 7.00 Bluey 6.40pm Bluey’s Big Play 7.25 Bluey 7.30 HardQuiz Kids. (Return) 8.00 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.40 Chopped Junior 9.20 Fresh OffThe Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary 10.25 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 11.55 MOVIE: Super Mario Bros. (1993, PG) 1.45pm Great Blue Wild. 2.35 Nula. 3.05 Harold. 4.05 Other Side Of The Rock. 4.10 The Lake Winnipeg Project. 4.30 Homesteads. 5.00 Larapinta. 6.00 Amplify 6.30 News. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: 2001: ASpace Odyssey.(1968) 11.05 Late Programs.

Sunday,October 5

ABC TV (2)

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Grand Finale: 2006 FIFAFilm. 3.45 Motor Racing. World Rally-Raid Championships. Round 4. BP Ultimate Rally-Raid Portugal. Highlights. 4.15 Gymnastics. FIG Artistic World Challenge Cup. Highlights. 5.35 Trains At War. (PGa, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Orient Express: AGolden Era Of Travel. (PGav) The Orient Express continues its journey 8.25 75 YearsAtLongleat. Celebrations for the 75th anniversary step up agear. 9.20 RoyalCrisis: Countdown To Abdication: The Secret Scandal. (PGa, R) Documents ascandal involving the British royals.

10.20 Great Australian Walks: Wilpena Pound. (PG, R) 11.15 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav,R) 12.55 1.00

Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PGl, R) 4.00 JSchwanke’sLifeInBloom. (PG, R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The WorldTonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am

WorldWatch. 10.00 TheMovie Show. Noon Land Of The Giants: Titans Of Tech. 1.40 Trip Hazard: My Great BritishAdventure. 2.35 AForkInThe Road 3.35 News 3.40 WorldWatch. 5.40 Mastermind Aust. 6.40 Mysteries From Above. 7.35 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 Fatal Flight: Shoreham 9.30 Alien: Terror In Space. 10.30 LatePrograms

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 8.40 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (2002) 10.20 After Hours. (1985, Mns) 12.10pm Goodbye Lenin! (2003, Mlv,German) 2.25 The Grass Harp. (1995, PGal) 4.25 The Straight Story (1999, PGa) 6.30 The Three Musketeers. (1973, PGsv) 8.30 Free State Of Jones. (2016, MA15+av) 11.05 Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Epsom Day and Turnbull Stakes Day 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Healthy,Wealthy &Wise. (PG) Presented by Chrissie Swan. 8.00 MOVIE: Die Hard2 (1990, Mlv,R) On Christmas Eve, while waiting for his wife’splane to arrive at a Washington, DC, airport, apolice

situation involving terrorists who want to free aforeign dictator.Bruce Willis, Bonnie Bedelia, William Atherton.

10.30 MOVIE: The Jackal. (1997, MA15+lv,R)The FBI and the KGB hireajailed Irish sniper to stop achameleon-like terrorist. Bruce Willis, RichardGere. 1.00 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv,R) Georgina crosses aline.

3.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’sAcademic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness (PG, R)

7TWO (72, 62)

6am Morning

Programs. 1pm Animal Rescue. 1.30 Room For Improvement. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Better Homes. 4.00 The YorkshireVet. 5.00 Horse Racing. Epsom Day and Turnbull Stakes Day 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 The YorkshireVet. 8.30 Escape To The Country 11.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (73,64)

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Dipper’s Destinations. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. NDRC TopDoorslammer 4.00 Deep Water Salvage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Pt Adel vWestern Bulldogs. 9.15 MOVIE: Spider-Man 2. (2004, M) 11.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Getaway.(PG, R) 6.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 7.00 WeekendToday 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday.(PG) 12.00 Explore. (R) 12.15 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.30 The Garden Gurus. 2.00 Canoeing. ICF Slalom World C’ships. 4.00 Journey To Europe. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway.(PG) 6am Morning Programs. 12.30 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 1.00 Silvia’s Italian

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Rugby Union. The Rugby Championship. Australia vNew Zealand.

9.40 Test Rugby: Australia vNew Zealand Post-Match. Post-match wrap-up, along with an expert panel’s analysis and player interviews.

10.30 MOVIE: Sharko: The Mark Graham Story (2024, Mav) The life of league legend Mark “Sharko” Graham. Mark Graham.

12.00 Next Stop. (R)

12.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)

1.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

9GEM (92,81)

6am Danger Man.

7.00 Leading The Way. 7.30 TV Shop. 8.00 Thunderbirds. 8.30 Tomorrow’sWorld. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 MOVIE: Whisky Galore! (1949) 12.15pm MOVIE: Golden Ivory.(1954, PG) 2.05 MOVIE: West Of Zanzibar.(1954) 4.05 MOVIE: The Big Country.(1958, PG) 7.30 To Be Advised. 11.00 Late Programs.

9GO! (93, 82)

6am Morning Programs.

2.15pm Australian Roulette. 3.05 Ski Rescue Down Under 4.05 Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge. 5.05 MOVIE: Wonder.(2017, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: She’sThe Man. (2006, PG) 9.35 MOVIE: Stick It. (2006, PG) 11.40 Love Island Games. 3am Ski Rescue Down Under 4.00 Barney’sWorld. 4.30 ILove VIP Pets. 4.50 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Late Programs.

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 Attenborough’sKingdom Of Plants. (R) 3.20 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 4.10 Bill Bailey’sWild West Australia. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow

6.00 Pilgrimage: The Road Through The Alps. (PG) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Ray Martin. (PG) The students interview Ray Martin.

8.15 Mystery Road: Origin. (Mal) Mary’sniece goes missing.

9.05 The Following Events Are Based On APack Of Lies. (Premiere, M) Awoman invests in her husband’sproperty scam. 10.05 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R)

10.35 MOVIE: Love And Other Catastrophes. (1996, Md, R)

11.55 Anh’sBrush With Fame. (PG, R) 12.25 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) 3.00 Ask The Doctor.(PG,R) 3.30 The Art Of... (PG, R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 APAC Weekly 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Motor Racing. Australian Superbike Championship. Round 7. 4.00 Sailing. SailGP Round 10. Highlights. 5.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’sRivers. (R) 5.35 Trains At War. (PGa, R)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Nefertiti: To Whom Belongs This Beauty? (R) Alookatthe bust of Queen Nefertiti.

8.30 Destination Ancient Rome. (PGa, R) An exploration of ancient Rome, the largest city in the world during antiquity with one million inhabitants.

10.15 Kiss The Future. (Malv,R) The story of the Siege of Sarajevo. 12.05 Humanity In Danger (Premiere)

2.00 Auschwitz: The Hidden Traces. (Mavw,R) 3.00 Curious Traveller (R) 4.00 JSchwanke’sLife In Bloom. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Bing. 6.05 Bananas In Pyjamas. 6.20 Peppa Pig. 6.25 Wiggle. 6.40 Shaun The Sheep. 6.45 Paddington. 7.00 Bluey 7.15 Bluey’sBig Play 8.05 Bluey 7.30pm Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 MOVIE: My Freaky Family.(2024, PG) 9.05 MOVIE: Hotel Transylvania: Transformania. (2022, PG) 10.25 Horrible Histories. 10.55 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6.00 NBC Today 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Bathurst Preview Show 1.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 8. Richmond vAdelaide. 3.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 8. Geelong vCarlton. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGl, R) Hosted by Jim Jefferies.

8.00 Andrew And Fergie: Duke And Duchess Of Excess. (Premiere) Examines the duke and duchess’sjourney

9.30 MOVIE: The Bee Gees: How Can YouMendABroken Heart. (2020, Ml, R) An exploration of the history of the Bee Gees, featuring interviews with oldest brother Barry Gibb. Barry Gibb, Maurice Gibb. 12.00 Miniseries: The Victim. (Mav,R)

1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGal, R) After adrunk reveller falls 20 metres offa cliff, lifeguards cannot believe the state he is in.

7.00 Soccer Australia Cup. Final. HeidelbergUnited FC vNewcastle Jets. From Lakeside Stadium, Melbourne. 10.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 11.30 The Gilded Age. (Man, R) Marian learns moreabout Mrs Chamberlain. George makes adealtohelp Bertha. 12.30 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mv,R)Asecurity corporation warehouse is robbed. 3.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power Religious program.

10 COMEDY (11, 52)

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 7.00 WeekendToday 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. (PG) 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show.(Final, PG) 1.00 Grand Final Day 1.20 Rugby League. State Cup C’ship. Grand Final. 3.10 Grand Final Day 4.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’sPremiership.Grand Final. 5.30 Grand Final Day 6am Morning Programs. 9.30 The Chef’s Garden. (Return) 10.00 Frugal Foodie. (R) 10.30 The Brighter Side. (R) 11.00 GCBC. (R) 11.10 Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition. (PGal, R) 12.20 My Market Kitchen. (R) 12.50 Location, Location, Location Australia.

6.00 9News Sunday.

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 The AmazingRace Australia: Celebrity Edition. (PGl) Hosted by Beau Ryan. 8.30 Watson. (Mv) Watson confronts atraumatic event from his army days when his veteran friend’swife reaches out for help after herhusband appears to suffer apsychotic break. 9.30 FBI. (Mv,R)The team fears acity-wide gang war is imminent after aseries of bombings targets Queens. 11.30 10 News+. (R)Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am Morning Programs. Noon Motorcycle Racing. Superbike World C’ship. AragonRound. 1.00 Cosplay Culture. 2.40 Jeopardy! 4.45 WorldWatch. 5.15 PBS Washington Week. 5.45 History’sGreatest Heists With Pierce Brosnan. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 Sue Perkins’ Big American Road Trip. 9.25 Uncanny 10.35 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 7.50 Bushwhacked! 8.15 Motown Magic. 8.40 WhereThe Dreamings Come From. 8.50 News. 9.00 Rugby League. Koori Knockout. 5.30pm Going Places. 6.30 Carpool Koorioke. 6.40 News. 6.50 Colombia’sWild Coast. 7.40 Aerial Australia. 8.30 Wilfred Buck. 10.15 MOVIE: The Dead Lands. (2014, MA15+) 12.05am Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 10.35 The Assistant. (2019, Mal) 12.15pm The Promise. (2016, Mav) 2.40 Sidonie In Japan. (2023, PGans, French, Japanese, English) 4.30 Finding Your Feet. (2017, PGadls) 6.35 Casablanca. (1942, PGav) 8.30 Michael Clayton. (2007, MA15+l) 10.40 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 House Of Wellness. 11.00 Healthy,Wealthy &Wise. Noon Escape To The Country 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Escape To The Country 3.30 Animal Rescue. 4.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 4.30 Escape To The Country 7.30 Mr Bates 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Flesh And Blood. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.30 Grand Final Night. Pre-match entertainment. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Grand Final.

9.30 NRL Grand Final Post-Match. The commentary team provides views, opinions, analysis and post-match interviews from the NRL Grand Final.

10.45 Mobsters: Paul Castellano. (Madv) Takes alook at Paul Castellano. 11.45 Australia’sTop TenOf Everything. (Mls, R)

12.40 The Gulf. (Madlsv,R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory (PGa)

4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today

9GEM (92,81)

6am Morning Programs. 8.30 The Incredible Journey 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 Getaway 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 Dad’s Army 11.45 MOVIE: Silent Dust. (1949, PG) 1.30pm MOVIE: They Who Dare. (1954) 3.45 MOVIE: Red River.(1948) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Volcano. (1997, M) 10.35 Major Crimes. 11.35 Late Programs.

7TWO (72, 62) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Ready VetGo: The VetParamedics. 3.00 Big Rigs Of Oz. 3.30 Made In Korea: The K-Pop Experience. 4.30 Dinner With The Parents. 5.00 TBA. 7.00 MOVIE: Bill &Ted’s Bogus Journey.(1991, PG) 9.00 TBA. 11.45 Gotham. 12.40am Arrow 2.30 Allo! Allo! 3.30 Only Fools And Horses. 4.00 Barbie It Takes Two. 4.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Red’sFishing Adventures. 2.30 Al McGlashan’sFish’n With Mates. 3.00

Monday, October 6

ABC (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7,6) TEN (10,

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Teenage Boss: Next Level. (R) 10.30 Endeavour.(Mav, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 2.55 Anh’sBrush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 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 IWas Actually There: Port Arthur Massacre. (Ml, R) 10.40 ABC Late News.

10.55 The Business. (R) 11.10 ALifeIn TenPictures. (Final, PG, R) 12.05 Grand Designs. (R) 12.50 Long Lost Family (PG, R) 1.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 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 Gladiators. 9.35 The Crystal Maze. 10.20 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 8.40 Bamay 9.00 Rugby League. Koori Knockout. 2pm Rugby League. Koori Knockout. 5.30 Sammy Butcher: Out Of The Shadows. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Colombia’sWild Coast. 7.30 Who Do YouThink YouAre? 8.30 Karla Grant Presents. 9.00 MOVIE: Radiance. (1998, M) 10.30 Treaty Road 11.30 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News Weekend. 1.30 Al Jazeera News Hour 2.00 Ancient Egypt: Chronicles Of An Empire. (Mav,R) 3.00 Unlocking The Secrets Of Stonehenge. (PGah, R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Who Do YouThink YouAre?(PGa, 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 Robson Green’sWeekend Escapes: Helen Skelton. (PG) Robson Green meets up with Helen Skelton.

8.40 Railway Revolution: How Trains Shaped Our World. (Premiere) Looks at the history of the railway,from its revolutionary beginnings in 1830 to its role in war,empireand atrocity

10.20 SBS World News Late. (Mal, R) Awriter receives devastating news.

11.55 The Allegation. (Mav,R) 2.30 Curious Traveller (R) 3.35 JSchwanke’sLife In Bloom. (R) 4.35 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am Morning

Programs Noon MajorLeague. Matchday 26. LA FC vAtlanta FC 2.30 WorldWatch 3.00 Wine Lovers’ Guide. 3.30 History’s Crazy Rich Ancients. 3.55 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Food That Built The World 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats 8.30 Joe Lycett’sUnitedStates Of Birmingham. 9.25 Buzzcocks 10.10 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 1pm The Straight Story.(1999, PGa) 3.05 The Three Musketeers. (1973, PGsv) 5.05 The Legend Of The Christmas Witch. (2018, PGalv, Italian) 6.55 WhereThe Money Is. (2000, PGasv) 8.30 Bad Company.(1972) 10.15 November.(2022, Malv,French) 12.15am Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PG) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away (PG) Cash and Eden enjoy aluxury honeymoon.

7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.

9.00 The Rookie. (Madv) The team mobilises to locate asuspect after adeadly series of events affects one of their own.

10.00 Alert: Missing Persons Unit. (Mav) Nikki goes missing.

11.00 S.W.A.T (Mav) The team launches acitywide manhunt.

12.00 The Great Diamond Heist. (PGa, R)

1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning

Programs. 1pm Room For Improvement. 1.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.00 Weekender 2.30 Great Rail Restorations. 3.30 Harry’sPractice. 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 Today 9.00 Today Extra.

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 The Block. (PGl) The judges awardaperfect scoretoone team.

9.10 Murder Down Under: The Toolbox Murders Pt 1. (MA15+adv) Looks at the double murder of 28-year-old Corey Breton and 31-year-old Iuliana Triscaru

10.10 9News Late.

10.40 The Equalizer (Return, MA15+v) McCall races to rescue two siblings.

11.40 To Be Advised. 12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Believer’sVoice Of Victory (PGa)

ACurrent Affair (R)

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 Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition. (PGal) Hosted by Beau Ryan. 8.40 Have YouBeen Paying Attention? (Final, Malns) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 10.10 Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Gen. (PGls, R) Hosted by Anne Edmonds. 11.10 10’sLate

Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Poirot. 1.00 M*A*S*H. 2.00 Keeping Up Appearances. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow 3.30 MOVIE: Saraband For Dead Lovers. (1948) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 ShakespeareAnd Hathaway 10.40 Late Programs.

9GO!

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 TBA. 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 Veronica Mars. 12.30am Pretty Little Liars. 1.30 Supernatural. 3.30 TomAnd Jerry 4.00 Barbie It Takes Two. 4.30 Lego Dreamzzz. 4.50 Pet Shop Zombies. 5.10 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 2.30 Motor Racing. NDRC TopDoorslammer.Replay 3.30 Mountain Men. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Outback Crystal Hunters. 8.30 Aussie Gold Hunters. 9.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 10.30 Late Programs.

FACTS about Regional Newspapers:

•“Thereiscontinued strongdemand(andpassion)for theprinted productinrural andregionalAustralia.”

•“Audiencesoverwhelmingly view aprinted copy of their newspaper as an essentialservice fortheir community.”

Tuesday,October 7

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Aust Story.(R) 10.30 Planet America. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow.(R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Following Events Are Based On APack Of Lies. (M, R) 2.00 Parliament. 2.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (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 IWas Actually There: Black (Return, M)

8.30 Take 5With Zan Rowe: Jarvis Cocker Jarvis Cocker

9.00 MOVIE: Slim &I (2020, PG, R) Tells the story of Joy McKean. 10.40 Media Watch. (PG, R) 11.00 ABC Late News. 11.15 The Business. (R) 11.30 Four Corners. (R) 12.15 Labor In Power.(PG,R) 1.15 Grand Designs. (R) 2.05 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 2.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia Christmas Special. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Ancient Egypt: Chronicles Of An Empire. (PGa, R) 3.00 The Hunt For Cleopatra’sMissing Tomb. (PGa, R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Who Do YouThink YouAre? (PGav,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 Journeys: St Bees To Grange-Over-Sands. (PGv) 8.30 Insight. Looks at First Nations peoples’ lives.

9.30 Dateline: Inside Israel ANation At War. Looks at what people think about

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 The Point. (R) 11.30 Spies Of Terror.(Malv) 1.25 Charles I: Downfall Of AKing. (R) 2.30 Curious Traveller.(R) 3.35 JSchwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.35 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s 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.

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 The Rap Game UK. 1.25 Homicide. 2.20 Bamay 2.50 The MegaBrands 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. 10.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PG) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away (PG) Cash and Eden returntothe Bay

7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.

9.10 Murder In ASmall Town. (M) The team investigates when abody is found at alocal wedding between members of two feuding families.

10.10 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.

11.10 Grosse Pointe Garden Society (Masv) Brett’snew bond stirs buzz.

12.10 Pretty HardCases. (Madv)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Anthem Sessions. 2.00 This Is Indian Country 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Black As. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Great Parks Of Africa. 7.30 The Point. 8.30 ProBull Riding USA: World Team Series. 9.30 Hunting Aotearoa. 10.00 Late Programs. NITV (34) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today Noon My Kitchen Rules. 1.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.00 Creek

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Sing Street. (2016, Mal) Noon 20th Century Women. (2016, Mdlns) 2.10 The Legend Of The Christmas Witch. (2018, PGalv,Italian) 3.55 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PGalsvw) 6.15 First Cow.(2019, PGalv) 8.30 Unforgiven. (2013, MA15+v,Japanese) 11.05 Late Programs.

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 Today 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.30 Getaway.(PG,R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 [VIC] Tipping Point Australia.(PG)

5.00

6.00 9News.

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 The Block. (PGl) The teams face agruelling week bringing their backyarddesigns to life.

8.40 To Be Advised.

10.10 9News Late.

Regions rising, homes missing

By AIDAN KNIGHT

REGIONAL Australia will need 480,000 new homes by 2041 to keep pace with population shifts, and Gippsland is at the centre of the challenge. That was the stark message at Federation University on August22, whenthe Regional Australia Institute’s Regions Rising conference returned to Victoria.

The RAI’s Regions Rising series has been a national event running since 2019. In which the organisation presentstoacrowd of localthought leaders, policymakers, and community voices, to whomitpresentsits research on regional issues.

Thisyear’s report was on ‘Answering the Call for Regional Housing’, and sets out astark figure: regional Australia will need 480,000 new homes by 2041, representing around 40 per cent of the national housing target.

MC’ed by Kellie O’Callaghan, former Latrobe City mayor and now chairperson of Regional Development Australia (RDV), the forumbrought together government, research, and community voicestoaddress the mountingpressures on housing supply, affordability, and infrastructure.

The first keynotespeaker, state Member for Eastern Victoria and Housing Minister Harriet Shing, was introduced by RDV chief executive Xavier Csar as “really the minister for Gippsland”. Ms Shing brushed off the joke with asmile, pleading withthe crowd, “Don’t tellDarren Chester”,but turned quickly to the challenge at hand.

The minister described Latrobe as “an area of priority that is alsoalightningrod of opportunity”, something that could be highlighted by her continued advocacy in the region for the now-defunct Latrobe Health Assembly.

Ms Shing said she saw Gippsland as an opportunity for the state to grow, in its current state of energy and industrytransitions, whileVictoria as awhole continues to see arisingpopulation, and two in every five metro residents say they’re considering moving to the regions.

“But we need to grow well,” she emphasised the quality of the infrastructure being built to combat current statistics.

“If we don’t have adequate housing, we don’t have opportunity.”

The energy transition, in particular, she described as an opportunity of ‘once in alifetime’ proportions, in terms of how much new employment, industry training, andsupporting infrastructure it would open up.

“So preparing for these opportunities andensuring we can create housing that is fit for purpose with long-term benefits for the regions, is vital,” Ms Shing said.

Gippsland alone is projected to have 50,000 new jobs in the next nine years, and with societal migration of capital city residents to regional areas continuing to trend, the math is there -but only if there are places for people to move into.

The state budget delivered a$61 million extension to the off-the-plan stamp duty concession, widely

available to allbuyers through October 2026, reducing upfront costs by up to $28,000 on a$620,000 apartment. Federally, the2025-26budget delivered a$33 billion housingpackage: expanding the Help to Buy scheme to assist up to 40,000 buyers, banning foreign purchases of existing homes for two years, investing $54 million in modular housing, and allocating $10 billion throughthe Housing Australia Future Fund for 30,000 social homes.

While meaningful, even combined, these measures fall short of the regional constructionscale requiredtosupport forecast migration and job growth.

But critics argue the scale still falls short.

“Whengovernments talk about housing, they aren’t talkingabout houses they are going to build,” Australian Housing and Research Institute managing director Dr Michael Fotheringhamtold the forum

“That leaves the regions competing in thesame strained private market as everyone else,” he said.

The numbers underline the gap. Net internal migration has surged to its highestlevel in 20 years, excluding the pandemic, with thousands leaving the cities. Without apipeline of regional housing, the report warns, jobs and services risk outpacing the very communities they are meant to support.

Net internalmigration in the past two years has been at its largest for thepasttwo decades,

even excluding the pandemic. Currently, two in every five metro dwellers equate to abit over seven millionnew residents in the regions. This is agreat figure for job openings and the corresponding skills shortage across the state, much of which is contained within the building sector itself, but it is afigure that, withoutnew housingsupply,risks overwhelming regionalmarkets already under strain.

Part of the tackling of this problem will be done by the shortstaylevy, introduced through theShort Stay Levy Bill 2024 in late August 2024. The levy imposes a7.5 per cent tax on short-termstays under 28 days, via platforms like Airbnb and Stayz ,effective from January 1this year.

Expected to raise around $60 million annually, the levy funnels all revenue to Homes Victoria, with 25 per cent dedicated to regional Victorian housing projects. The package also gives owners corporations the power to prohibit short-term rentals in their buildings (with 75 per cent approval), and grantslocalcouncils the authority to regulate or ban such accommodations.

Based on the discussion at the forum,several key support mechanisms emerged:

 Dedicated regional housing funding tranches, with the RAI recommending 40 per cent of the National Housing Accord’s 1.2 million homes be allocated to regional areas;

 Infrastructure funding for enabling infrastructure like roads, water, and power in new developments;

 Establish anational regional housing commissioner;

 Ensure at least 30 per cent regional representation on the National Housing Supply and Affordability Council;

 Fund training for locally-based tradies and planners to address skill shortages, and;

 And support modern methods of construction and prefabricated housing to speed up delivery.

Minister Shing emphasised local government was “essential” and “the driver” of housing outcomes, noting that councils are the interface between residents andlarge-scalepolicydecisions. Thekey is ensuring councils have the capability, capacity, and workforce development support needed while maintaining their role in community planning and social license management.

The message was clear: this requires all three levels of government working together, with regional-specificsolutions rather than one-sizefits-all approaches.

Battling housing shortage with training

By AIDAN KNIGHT

REGIONAL Victoria faces atroubling dilemma when it comes to tackling the currenthousing crisis -askill shortage.

Expanding acrossmultiple sectors,withparticular pressure on construction trades, which is also suffering alackofunskilled laborers as well. According to arecent report from theRegional Institute of Australia(RIA), theregional areas feel this the most.

“A persistentlygreater share of regional recruiters are having difficulty hiring than their major city counterparts

“In2024, regionaltrade labor vacancies were 85.5per cent higher thanthe averagelevelof vacancies prevailing for the five years before the pandemic”,while therate was unchanged, or even lower, in major cities than they were before COVID.

This wasall discussedatthe ‘RegionsRising’ forum event held at Federation University Gippsland Campus on August 22, where we heard calls for stronger collaboration between governments, universities, and industry.

Panellists highlighted that fixing the housing crisis would mean addressing skills pipelinesand training opportunities for youngpeople, something easier said than done, but should not be all that complicated.

Federation University vice-chancellor Duncan Bentley said Gippsland faced apressing youth disengagement problem, with “one in six young people not in work, education or training, about 9500 kids.”

“We need 50,000 new workers in the region,” Professor Bentley said.

“If we don’t build pathways for these young people,wesimply won’t have the skills or the housing to meet demand.”

Federation is responding throughits cooperative

education model, which places students directly with local employers. Professor Bentley said the approachtargeted thosewho might not otherwise enter university or the workforce.

“It’s aboutgiving them afoot in the door and giving employers the skilled workforce they’re crying out for”, as building new homes appears to be only half the challenge of thehousingcrisis, finding the workforce to deliver it is just as critical.

According to Housing Industry Association chief executive Simon Croft, Australia did not have an issue with the quality of the homes being built or made compliant; it is simply keeping up with the demand.

“Building codes alone won’t solve the problem; the workforce pipeline has to be there,” he said.

Mr Croft is well-versed in the issue, breaking down the numbers unprompted on the specifics of Victoria’s needs in the sector:

 22,000 more carpenters are needed in Victoria;

 17,000 more electricians;

 12,000 more plumbers;

 6500 more bricklayers, and;

 1000 more concreters.

“Theseare dominating numbers,” he looked around the room while puttingitinto context

“It’s pretty much the MCG on grand final day,” Mr Croft said.

This issue has worsened in regional areas, particularly, and we are now faced witha20-year supply pipeline decline. TheRIA’s Regionalisation Ambition 2032 lays bare the scale of the challenge:

77 per cent of regional recruiters now report difficulty filling roles, compared with just 37 per cent in 2019. Its target: slash this figure to below 40 per cent by 2032.

After the pandemic, it was forecastthat Gippsland specifically neededtofindanadditional 12,900 workers by this year, and is ranked third in the state for most in needofregional jobs

(Victorian Skills Authority).

Education is the obvious and vital fix,and that is what the Regionalisation Ambition 2032 initiative aims to fix. Nearly 10,000young people in Gippsland are disengaged from work.

Barry Rogers, chair of Latrobe Youth Space Consortium, was one of the many industry attendees at the Regions Rising forum, and addressed Professor Bentley from the crowd.

“Those nine and ahalf odd kids, that’s 20 per cent of the targetof50,000 newworkers we want that we’re doing nothing about,” Mr Rogers said.

Mr Rogers spoke on the good work being done by TAFE and Fed Uni, to engage young people, but stated that he’s “not hearing anything so far in how we can regionally change that”.

“How can we address the fact that next year’s undergraduates going into university as 18-yearolds are the kids who lived through the first two years of their school life in covid? Kids thatwe hearare disengaged, left,and center, we need social infrastructure as acommunity to sit along the physical infrastructure to help our young people fill this skill shortage,” Mr Rogers said.

Thebestway forward in Mr Croft’s perspective is to treathousing as acriticalinfrastructure, “like roads and hospitals and schools”.

“Over the past 20 years, we’ve seen very significant policies, rather than looking at really long-term structural reforms,” he said.

Professor Bentleyinformed of Federation’s intentions to change the education model to somethingmore hands-on, to better skill up those who make it through thedoors of university, something he called ‘cooperative education’.

“Instead of havinganivorytower separate from employers we need people to be able to work and learn and get experience and have academic credit for doing so and gettingpaid for doing work which is in the careerthatthey want to go down.” he said.

“If you’re in aschool,you don’t know what a surveyor does, or aplanner does...it’s collectively up to all of us to be telling all as many young people and people who are looking to upskill or change careers, what we do and how we love it.” Presenting this appealing, work-focused training is being seen by these industry leaders as the key to keepingthe skills in Gippslandaswell, as a separate area of the skills shortage discussed was the ability to retain skills locally, as three-quarters of young people who move away from the regions, for study or otherwise, never come back, according to Professor Bentley.

“Seventy per cent of those who study in the regions will stay in the regions. But if they don’t, three-quarters of them will never come back.” ProfessorBentleyalsonoted “the largest group of people who are emigrating from the regions is that 18 to 30-year-olds”, and described this as a “vacuum effect at the end of year 12”.

Professor Bently also mentioned that in the Gippsland area, there was “up to 25 per cent less post-secondary participation by school leavers thaninmetro Melbourne” -meaningfewer young people are enteringuniversityorTAFE after finishing school compared to Melbourne.

This creates what he calleda“virtuous cycle” problem -ifyoung peoplecan be kept in the regions for post-secondary education, most will stay, but once they leave, the vast majority never return, contributing to the demographicchallenge facing regional areas.

The message was clear: solving regional housing is about more than bricks and mortar. Without training, young people leave, and the workforce dries up. Housing is critical infrastructure, and it’stimetoscrew in the right supports to keep growth on track in Gippsland.

Housing: RAI highlighted housingata conference in August

Photograph supplied

l alk Reel Talk

with BLAKE METCALF-HOLT& AIDAN KNIGHT

The Express is pleased to introduce anew column on an irregularbasis,inthe shapeofthe well-loved movie review format. Resident film enthusiast and sports reporter,Blake Metcalf-Holt,teams up for the first editionwithAidan Knight(who once cried during Bambi and now covers Express politics) for atopical film of aclassic description. Following the recent passing of Hollywood icon Robert Redford, the pair found it fitting to revisit All the President’s Men (1976) to see how the newsroom thriller holds up nearly 50 years on. The well-known flick follows another duo of print journalistswhose dogged investigation intothe Watergate scandal ultimately led to President Richard Nixon’s resignation.

Now, it's time for Reel Talk... BlakeMetcalf-Holt (BMH): I’ll come right out and say it, and there may be slight bias considering how much Ihold All the President’s Men close, but this is the greatest conspiracy/detective/journalist film of all time. It’s hard to be at the top in three similar groups, but it has it all. You’ve got two indelible leads, from some of the best actors of their generation, atrue story thatonly becomes more interesting the more one dives into it,and so many otherfactors of the filmmaking process that come together so perfectly. WhileDustinHoffman is clearlyamuch more skilful actor, and has been subjectedtofar more acclaim, this filmspecifically is wholly Robert Redford’s. Not only does he star and give his best performance, Redford was the one to purchase the rights to the book, which initiated the project. Redford and Hoffmanwork in tandem beautifully, but the cast as awhole is well picked, specifically with the selection of Washington Post chief editor Ben Bradlee, playedbyJason Robards. Bradleeisthe necessarycounterweight, not only in the context of the film to ensure that ‘Woodstein’ are kept in check and aren’t skipping any steps forthe story, butalso, with Robards as asenior actor at the time, providing that charming wit and punch as he arrives every so often over the course of the runtime.

Aidan Knight (AK): It's pretty staggering to see it put into perspective, seeing Redford and Hoffman solving the biggest political conspiracy in history, sittinginaMcDonald's. Ilikehow it wastes no time in set-up or characterintroductions,soif you'refamiliar with the events of Watergate it isn't abore, but also tells the story well enough that you can keep up without knowing anything. The investigativenatureofitmakesiteventhrilling to do, and scratches the same itch that true crime does, perhaps giving it awider appeal these days. Hoffman especially shines (looking suspiciously like aRobert Downey clone),but Redford is the glue holding it all together. His calm, meticulous performance is deceptively powerful,becauseHoffman does more of the talking as the film progresses, leavingRedfordtodomorewith less, almostputting amirrortohis compadre'sdemeanor. He really makes you believehe's areporter fixated on putting together the pieces of apuzzle, and together these two really sell the tension of the film. Who knew two guys typing angrily in parking garages somehow makes for one of the most well-assembled films of its time?

BMH: Putinthe shoes of two(at the time) unknown reporters in Bob Woodward and Carl Berstein,

Colourfullife on show

By KATRINA BRANDON

BLOSSOMING colours and years of work are currently on display at ARC Yinnar.

Open until October 12, the works of local artist Davia McMillan surround the larger display room at ARC.

Brought up with creative influences, Ms McMillan is excited to share her work.

“Surrounded by creative influences all my life, Ihavecome to believe that art is just what you do! It’s who you are! It’s the stories we create,” McMillan told the Express

“Creativity permeates all aspects of my life, from my parenting to my work as aleadership coach. Creativity helps me see thingsfrom perspectives that are sometimes hidden from others and provides me with tools to cope in a VUCA (volatile,uncertain,complexand ambiguous) world.”

Around 25 years ago, Ms McMillan was living in Melbourne with young children.

Needing acommunity to call her own, the art teacher at her children’s primary school opened up the art room to the parents every Thursday morning. Joining the parents’ art group, Ms McMillan said that the connection became really strong and openedher up to working with mosaic. The passion for the arts didn’t start there, but

only blossomed. Ms McMillan told the Express that her father had also completed some work, which is shared in the exhibit in Yinnar.

Other inspiration also comes from her grandfather, who also delved into the arts.

“I draw your attention to ‘Cologne Cathedral’ -inspired by aphotograph my grandfather took on May 10, 1945,” Ms McMillan said.

“He was aphotographic map maker in the RAAF. Theimagewas of devastation.This painting is the first in aseries that invited me to seek and recreate astory around images from post-war photographyand to start aconversation about hope and Mother Nature.”

Ms McMillan’sexhibition, ‘Re: ARetrospective’, on display, spans more than 25 years and comprises treasures, commissions, business adventures, and daily journaling activities. Each piece has apartofa lifetime of learning that is acreative art practice.

The ‘Re’ in the name of the exhibition stands for many things that Ms McMillan finds in hope.

“I find HOPE in Re: Regeneration, Regrowth, Renewal,Recreate, Recycle, Reuse,Reclaim, Repurpose,Rejuvenate, Reinforce, Rebel, Restore, Relax, Reinvent, Reignite, Realign, Rebuild, Release, Relief, Rejoice,” she said.

For more information on the exhibition, go to www.arcyinnar.org/whats-on

given the context of the story they’re chasing and the period itself, the tension this provides is excellent. The more ‘Woodstein’ go further and further down the rabbit hole, just poking the bear of the White House and the institutionalestablishment at large, the more you as aviewer are engrossed. That is supported by anumberofthings, of course due to the direction by Alan J. Pakula (see The Parallax Viewand Kluteastwo other brilliantthrillers), the intimate and eery cinematography nurtured by Gordon Willis (the Godfather films), and finally, the overall production personified greatly by the ultimate recreationofthe Post newsroom itself, with the latter two workingtoprovide an environment that makes it difficult to look away from.

AK: It's apolitical film, but it's no Oppenheimer, and that brings bothgood and bad. It doesn't takeyears off yourlifespan to watch(while still fairly lengthy), but there's also not any big flashy dramatic 'speech' moments we expect from these morebiographical movies these days. Most of it involves Redford and Hoffman answering phones, pacing the office, or getting doors slammed in their faces. You're really thrust into the realistic side of themore higher-stakes journalism, which isn't for everybody, but it'sdefinitely interesting. Isee this as proof of how good the actors are, as you probably had to be in the 70'swithoutthe crutch of fast-paced action and CGI, to make it an engaging watch, and amuch more realistic one.

BMH: William Goldman’s script was understandably awarded best screenplay at that year’s Oscars, and while it is obviously an excellent piece of writing, some of the lines expressed are also so unserious,given the severity of the overall picture, that it’s funny. Since the story is of regular white collar folk being thrust into an extraordinary moment in modern history, Goldman still finds timetopack in some absurdpieces of dialogue, even if it also stems from the truth.

AK: Whilesome dialogue makesyou scratch your head because the (clunky) lines they say are just plain ridiculous,itisdefinitelynot light entertainment -and it's not meant to be. Alot of the themes are just as topical now in today's political and economic climate as they were at the time of release. so it could almost be viewed as a cautionary tale commenting on those in political power. It also shows the true power of the press if used correctly, which is always great to put into perspective.

BMH: What is also most impressive about this entire piece of work, is that this was shot, editedand

released all in less than two years after the end of the Watergateinvestigation. For it to comeout as perfect as it did consideringthat, is atestamenttothe artiststhat cametogether for it. While the film doesn’t showcase the result of the prime journalists’ efforts (otherwise we’d be looking at afour-plus hour flick), much like the rhyme the title is riffing off, all the president’s horses and all of his men couldn’t put Dick back together again.

AK: Admittedly our occupation gives us apredisposition to like the film, as it takes place at a newspaper and sees apairofjournalists become detectives (just like Blake and Ionadaily basis), but it also has great appeal for history buffs, or just anyone who enjoys watching afilm not from this century, that still stands up today. It's slow-moving, so if that's adealbreaker, perhaps give it amiss, but if you have the patience or curiosity, you will be thinking about this one for awhile afteryou watch it.

BMH: ★★★★★ 5/5 stars

AK: ★★★★☆ 4/5stars

Feline works featured at ARC

By KATRINA BRANDON

‘CAT Tails’, an exhibition by Gippsland artist Allison Miles, is on display at ARC Yinnar until October 12.

Walking into the establishment, Cat Tails can be found in aroom located at the front of the gallery, visible to people as they enter.

Working with pencil, pastel, oil pastel, acrylic, ink, and markers on paper and canvas, Ms Miles enjoys creatingwhimsical worldsofcharacters that express avariety of emotions and feelings, such as joy, sadness, happiness, hope, and love.

At an early age, Ms Miles grew her passion for art and is predominantly self-taught.

Cat Tails features many different cat designs, whether as other objects (such as lamps),orsetting down on themischievous and whimsical playthat Ms Miles aims to create.

“Creating ‘Cat Tails’ hasbeenajoyful and triumphant chapter in my life that Inow wish to share,” Ms Miles said.

“Each cat beckons the inner child of the viewer to play an imaginative game of word versus image, flipping reality on its head.”

Theidea for ‘Cat Tails’startedwith Ms Miles'

passionfor cats and the play on words that come together so easily when Ilook at these drawings. Ms Miles started working on cat-style comics on the back of anapkin in acafe in Norway. She said that the ideahad sat with her for afew years, through the passing of acouple of her own pets. In her 20s,MsMilesstudiedvisual arts at NMIT Preston and exhibited in agroup exhibitionatCusp Gallery in Northcote.Duringthis time, she was diagnosed with schizophrenia and decided to take abreak from studying to focus on her well-being.

“It wasduring this time that art became an important part of my recovery,” Ms Miles told the Express

“It was aguiding light, and Ibegan creating in earnest.

“I still work on art every day as it helps me to relax,focus my thoughts and createmeaning in my life. When I’m working, Ilose track of time and enter into aflow state where Icreateasafe space for my thoughts, and the images just fall onto the page”

To date, Ms Mileshas created alarge body of work and produced arange of original cards, two calendars, and three books of her artwork: ‘Alice’, ‘Oil Pastels’, and, most recently, ‘Cat Tails’.

Lifetime: Davia McMillaniscurrentlyshowing

Katrina Brandon

Whimsical worlds: Throughlotsofhardwork, Alison Miles hasnow launchedher exhibition, Cat Tails at ARC Yinnar

Photograph: Katrina Brandon

Remembering: ThelateRobertRedford, pictured in 2012 Photo: Wikipedia

Remembering aselflesslocaladvocate

By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

TIRELESSlocal volunteer and championfor prostateresearch Allan Cunningham passed away recently at the age of 83.

TheTraralgonman wasinstrumental in awiderangeofactivities in the region to raise crucial funds and awarenesssurrounding prostate cancer.

Mr Cunningham was most notably co-founder of the Latrobe Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group in 2010, and was key in forming the Latrobe’s Biggest Ever Blokes BBQ committee, which has now run for the past 13 years andhas raised a mammoth sum of $1 million.

Full of heart and passion, as convenorofthe local support group, he has supported hundreds of men andtheir families with information and direction in helping them through their difficult journey.

Mr Cunningham was the recipient of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s prestigious Max Gardner Award for his distinguished service to the community and to the cause.

His dedicationand enthusiasm to see progress and change was so much that he even attracted high-profile namessuchasMervHughesand Mick Malthouse to support.

Mr Cunningham’s advocacy had such an effect that over the span of his work, the Latrobe Valley stooped from the highest death rate in Australia forprostate cancer to as low as seventh. And he only wished to see it driven down further.

PCFAChairman, Adjunct Associate Professor Steve Callister AM paid tributetoMrCunningham’s legacy.

“Allan was an outstanding member of the community and advocate,” he said.

“He played avital role in providing men andtheir families with information, comfort, and support, calling on his own personal experiences to ensure that men and their partners do not have to walk the journey of prostate cancer alone.

“Allan has made an exceptional difference to so many Australians impacted by prostate cancer, improving survivorship outcomes for all -a farreachinglegacybenefittingmanythousands of people into the future.

“Vale to adevoted community advocate and a compassionate man.”

Mr Cunningham has beenatthe forefront of countless local initiatives along the way.

He assisted in the establishment of the Blue Ball

Game at the Churchill Football-Netball Club, while also organisingcampaignssuch as barbecues, stalls and rotary conventions across the Latrobe Valley.

Mr Cunningham alsosupported the Male Bag Foundation, holding anumber of events regionally,

includingrides from Melbourne through Gippsland to raise vital funds.

Innovative as well, Mr Cunningham helped evaluate the blue bus concept, providing amobile screening bus for people, including negotiating tourslocally forworkers at Loy Yang APower

Station and the Australian Paper Mill. The revitalisation saw anew million-dollar purpose designed bus to bring prostate testing directly to individuals at theirworkplaces with doctors and other health professionals.

COVID decisions affected affffected everyone everryyone

IN responsetothe article by Garry Mitchell (Where is the relevance?', 24/9), ourformerpremier dragged allVictorians, including the Latrobe Valley through dirt, grime, lies, and deceit for over adecade.

Now we find out that his former "partner in crime" Brett Sutton, has clearly and categorically stated that he "wasn't happy" doing what he did, (COVID rules, lockdowns etc.) but was forced to adhere to instructions because of orders from above.

As far as Ican see, these archaic and moronic decisions affected allof Victoria including everyone in regional Victoria.

Now, as far as I'm concerned, that constitutes "local issues" which affected us all.

This is certainly not "old news," as this particular overseas "gathering" took place just afew weeks ago.

Is this "concise and relevant" to theValley? Why wouldn't it be?Itmadenews headlines allover the world.

Should the Latrobe Valley be exempt fromknowing what this individual has done?

Shouldhebeforgottenaboutand forgiven for his desperation to boost his already egotistical demeanour? Hell no!

There's an old saying, that"karmaislikearubber band you can only stretch it so far, then it comes backand hits you in the face!"For the "I stand with Dan" minority, the karma rubber band did its job. But, let's face the fact that Dan will not be concerned about the beltinghegot from alland sundry He is Teflon-coated and he is as thick as abrick

Yes, Mr Mitchell you are correct in saying that Adam "walked over ground that is so old". But according to the Bible,Adam walked together with Eve in the Garden of Eden abiblical earthly paradisewherethey lived, before they got the big Afrom their "boss" for disobeying His commands.

What does that have to do with moi? I'm happy and content with the fact I've walked over many agarden gardens sowed with the seeds of fact not BS!

Another line brought up from Mr Mitchell was "stale gutter talk". Idon't think gutter talk will ever be stale where Dan is concerned. This low life, putall Victorians in thegutter with his egotistical, draconian, "it's my way or the highway" mantra. Goodfor you, Mr Mitchell,you gaveyouropinion and Irespect that.

Ihave to also mention Mr Nicholas Tam ('Real motive', 24/9).

Spot on Mr Tam, absolutely loved your article You are correct that our former dictator will continue to battle to find an Australiangolf course

that will accept him as amember. Oh dear, what

ashame, that is so very sad.My eyes are welling up with tears crocodile tears!

Dan is well and truly in the bunker, buried up to his neck in sand. Let's hope he will be in there for some time to come.

Quite true, Mr Tam, the karma bus will get you when you least expect it.

Lovedyour article, Joseph Lis ('Government our greatest enemy', 24/9), you are also spot on.

We don't need to worry about China, Russia or North Korea doing us harm. Our own Labor stooges are doing us more harm than anyone else.

But,I'm sure thatDan Andrewswould have made sure thatour country Australia wouldbe "hunky dory" and "well taken care of" in any time of imminent peril. "You da man, Dan!"

Till next time folks, keep smiling and be happy. Footy is over, bring on the cricket!

Oliver Bergens Dandenong

Valleyisn't isolated

GARYMitchell ('Where is therelevance?', 24/9) from his letter appears to view the Latrobe Valley as an isolated area. Everything that happens in this state affects us here in the Latrobe Valley.

Andrewsand Allan havecausedabig decline in our way of life and Albanese’s has ahand in our decline.

Local news that Opal is to sue the government for $400 million(which are the taxpayers) that concerns the workers and businesses in the Valley. The decline of the timber industry is also our concern.

Our use of coal and gas is in jeopardy, the old ground that Adam walked is becomingaquagmire of debt and decline.

Yes, the letters to the opinion page are doom and gloom, but this has happened through bad government.

Latest reports say that the young are leaving the Liberals who are aminority in government with very little clout.

What is the reason for that situation? Are they still living at home and not employed? Do they have too any freebies?

There is no incentive for the young to strive for betterment.

Those are alllocal issues. crime is rampant in the Valley which appears to be the future for our young.

Patricia Correa Traralgon

Fund falsehoods

THE current city council sees itself as arebel provinceofVictoria thatwillnot be affected by more frequent and more severe natural disasters due to climate change already reflected in our escalating property insurance premiums.

GregHansford ('Farmerssuffering', 24/9)quoted the firiesunion boss,repeatingthe same falsehood that mayor Dale Harriman and some councillors, said on video that the funds would go into“general revenue” and not be used for all five sectors of our emergency services.

Mr Hansford andour councillors have not heard of the Auditor General who reports to parliament, including the opposition, on the status of government accounts, including the emergency services fund.

Council took down the YouTube video of their embarrassingmeeting until they were shamed into reposting it, where it now resides on the council YouTube channelwithadate stampdifferentto the date of thecouncil meeting.

Mr Hansford could have beenupfront and did as I did and provided the Express with twoyearsofrates notices showing the increase due to augmenting the preexisting levyhad cost me an extra buckper week. He kept silent on how much it was costing him which Ibet is about abuck per week.

The history of emergency services funding in Victoriaisthat it was alevyonproperty insurance premiums until major fires exposed how many did not have insurance.

The state government of the day legislated aFire ServiceLevy on allpropertiesthat has been existing for decades*, generally unnoticed on rate notices.

High-rise apartmentownersinSouthbank, Melbourne,pay the levy to helppay for emergency services forall Victorians including farmers in the regions as we all should do.

If Mr Hansford is genuinely concerned about the burden of costs on ratepayers, he and his Gippsland FM radio bosses can pay the cost to ratepayers of his ill-fated legal case to overturn the city council election he promoted on FM radio.

Another case against our council by former GippslandFMchiefexecutive and current presenter Damian Andrews, is also costing us, creating an undemocratically imposed FM radio levy burden.

Phillip Edwards

Hazelwood South

(* Editor's note:the former Fire Services Property Levy was introduced by the Napthine Liberal-National government in 2013)

Net zero disaster

WHILST net zero is like aslow-motion train-wreck that the rest of the world is disembarking before the net zero gravy train derailscompletely,itis disturbing that Australia is still stubbornly clinging to the wreckage in avain and utterly futile attempt to stop the 0.000167per cent of the Earth's atmosphere we actually pollute.

Stripped of its apocalyptic rhetoric, net zero is the primary cause of nearly all our woes and the main driver of the cost-of-living crisis we are currently grappling with.

Iguess most Australians do not know just how inextricably and intimately linked energy policy is to inflation and thus its flow-on effects of everhigher power, grocery, and fuel prices and, as a further flow-on consequence, the unprecedented closures of Australian business and industry in the last three years of Labor's ruinous rule (a record 33,000 insolvencies).

To be sure, these insolvencieswere mainly if not exclusively due to unaffordable electricity overheads. As the shafts of light extend further, net zero is aglobalist slogan, not asolution. If theworld is notactinginunison, then nothing Australia does will make ahill of beans difference as it comprises just atiny 1.1 per cent of globalC02 greenhouse emissions per year whereas countries like China comprise 35 per cent via its 1200-plus coal-fired power stations. Thus, until we stop this renewables-only net zero smoke and mirrors show, food, fuel, and electricity prices will continue to skyrocket, families will suffer, and business and industry will continue to collapse.

In short, the Albanese governmentmust stop prioritising windmills and solar panels over Australian families and jobs.

Net zero is an unaffordable, economy-wrecking disaster, and it's way past time for arethink.

Joseph Lis Morwell

Libs in wilderness

AT the risk of further personal threats of legal retribution from ThomasQuinn,his latest offering ('Withoutprejudice',24/9), in response to Ian Whitehead, ('Truly greatpollies',17/9), offers further insight into why the Libs are in the wilderness,and deservedly destined to stay there.

1. Under Peta Credlin's "professional acumen, expert judgement and astute political skills", Tony "Captain's call" Abbott lasted all of two years as PM (2013-2015). Now she's just the darling of the reducing Sky News set.

2. So, Bronwyn Bishop, as speaker of the house,

did not need to bear any responsibility for her ill fated helicoptertrip in 2015 that killed off her political career? Really?

3. Robert Menzies was PM 60 years ago, when the Libs actually won the occasional election. No comment on the recent crop of luminaries, Thomas, as raised by Mr Whitehead?

"Without prejudice" indeed -wewish!

John Duck Trafalgar Nuclear campaign continues

WE recently met with seniorpoliticians in Parliament House to discuss the direction of nuclear policy including with the shadow minister for energy and emissions reduction, Dan Tehan.

We shared evidencethat the recent election outcome was not the result of supporting nuclear and highlighted theimpact we’ve had in improving nuclear literacy.

Looking ahead, we outlined ideas for their future nuclear policy emphasising thatwhilststrong foundations are nowinplace, momentum must ramp up if Australia is to seize the opportunity.

To support our growth, Kirsty Braybon was recentlyelected to our board. Kirsty has an extensivebackground in law and nuclear affairs in Australia leadingthe nuclear law program at the UniversityofAdelaide and servingasthe inaugural Head of Legal for ARWA.

Many of you would remember her from our National Nuclear Tour that visited Morwell.

Looking overseas offers promise for Australia’s nuclear future. There’s momentum in the Westwith work underway to meet ambitious nuclear power growth targets. NASA even just announced their intention to put anuclear reactor on the moon by 2030 making headlines around the world.

There has also also been major developments in our region. India is planning to increase their nuclear capacity tenfold by 2047, whilst Malaysia and Vietnam have progressed their plans to introduce nuclear power in their energy mix.

In Europe, Switzerland is moving to lift their nuclearprohibitions, offering another example for Australia.

Nuclear for Australia is closely monitoringthese developments as we worktoimprove awareness of the benefits of nuclear power. We’re really excited about the future of this movement. WillShackel is founder of Nuclear for Australia Canberra

Backing farmersfor a resilient future

AS Australian agriculture faces tougher conditions such as drought and achangingglobal trade environment, asignificant fundingboost has been announced to assist farmers across regional Victoria and Australia.

The Albanese Labor Government is injecting an extra $1 billion in new concessional loan funding through the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC), bringingthe total agricultural support through RIC loans to over $5 billion.

TheRIC provides low-interestloanstoeligible farm businesses and farm-related small businesses, helping them manage challenging times such as droughts and natural disasters.

It also supports first-time farmers to help establish their businesses and assists with succession planning forthe nextgenerationoffarmers.

This additional investment represents along-term commitment to helping farmers adapt to changing conditions and unexpectedbusiness disruptions, while strengthening the growth and resilience of the agriculture industry.

In other words, these loans are designed to help farmersmanagerisks, investininnovation and prepare for the realities of achangingclimate and economy.

So far, over 3400 loanshave been approved through the RIC, with over $3.6 billion in settled funds delivering direct benefits on the ground to farmers.

This newloanfunding is about givingfarmers certainty, ensuring the scheme will remain available beyond June 30, 2026.

The government is also broadening the RIC’s scope to include assistance for improving climate resilience, boosting productivity and supporting agriculture in Australia’s move to net zero.

This funding comes at atimewhenAustralian farmers and producers are on track for a record-breaking year,with figures showing our agricultural, fisheries and forestry industry is set to pass $100 billion this financial year.

This record growth is driven by strong prices for livestock and animal products, including beef, lamb and milk, which is projected to lift the valueof livestock production to $41.6billion. These forecasts are atestament to the dedication, innovation and resilience of our farming communities.

In addition to key farm support measures, the Albanese Government is strengthening international trade relations, investing $2 billion in

Have

your say

THE Latrobe Valley Express welcomes letters to the editor.

Preference will be given to brief, concise letters which address local issues.

The editorLiamDurkin,reserves the right to edit letters for reasons of space and clarity, and may refusetopublish any letter without explanation.

The Express does not publish letters from anonymous contributors.

Letters must include aphone number, email address and the author’s hometown for purposes of substantiating authenticity.

biosecurity and backing regionalworkforce training to help secure the industry’s future.

With continued support and strong demand for high-quality local produce, farmers and producers are well placedtostayamong thebest in the world and plan confidently for the future.

While challenges remain, federal Labor is committed to equipping farmers across Australia with the tools they need to adapt, grow and lead in a changing climate and global market.

Senator Raff Ciccone

Federal Labor Senator, chair of the Senate Foreign Affairs,Defence and Trade Legislation Committee

Govt disenfranchising vets

WHEN he was in opposition, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was quick to politicise the campaign for AbleSeaman Teddy Sheean to receive the Victoria Cross

But under new laws rammedthrough the House of Representatives, the independenttribunal established to review decisions by Defencewould be bannedfromevenconsidering Sheean’sheroic actions, and any gallant deeds which occurred more than 20 years ago

Under Prime Minister Albanese, the words “We willremember them”are set to carrya use-bydate.

Readers are entitled to aright of reply to a 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 those of the writers, and do not necessarily reflect the viewsof Latrobe Valley Express management or staff.

Readersshould be equally aware that facts presentedinletters are selected to support a person’s point of view.

As such,statisticscan quiteoften be fabricated depending on the pool of data 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.

Letters regarding religion will not be published. Email letters to news@lvexpress.com.au and include ‘Letter to the Editor’ in the subject line. Deadline for letters is Thursday 3pm.

It seems we will only remember them if their actions occurred withinaconvenienttimeframe for the Labor Party

Without consultation, the Albanese government has underminedthe independence of the DefenceHonours Awards and AppealsTribunal by placinga time limitonreviewable actions for Australia’s most significant military medals and abolished the rights of appeal for veterans and their families.

As astatutory agency, the Tribunal wasestablishedin2011and was always intended to act independently of government to review decisions madebyDefencedatingbackto1939

It wasthis process thatled to the decisionsto posthumously award aVictoriaCrosstoboth Teddy Sheean and RichardNorden, along with individual recognition for the braveryofDelta Company at Long Tan, during the Vietnam War. It’s hard to believe in the aftermath of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide that the Labor Party would further disenfranchise the veterans community

Thisisabilltoreduce transparency from aLabor government that hates being held to account, and it should be defeated in the Senate Darren Chester Federal Member for Gippsland, andshadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs

ARCHIVES

50 years ago, October 3, 1975

Writing and stealing

A22-year-oldTraralgonwoman

more than $1700. Police allege the woman stole abankbook from Mrs A. TourtoulasofTraralgon and withdrew money from the National Bank branches in Morwell and Traralgon. They allege she withdrew$1200 from Morwell on August 11 and$559 from Traralgon on September 19. The womanhas also been charged withstealing the bank book.

30 years ago, October 3, 1995

Big briquette deal close

ENERGY Brix is close to signing amultimillion dollar long-termcontract to supply Geelong Cement with brown coal briquettes. No dollar figure has been released on the cost of the contract, but it is said to be upward of $5 million. Underthe deal, Geelong Cement will convertone of its currentnaturalgas-firedkilns to burn brown coal briquettes. The conversion

of this aloneisestimatedtobe$5.5million. Geelong Cement works manager Gary Lingford told the Express that at present, the company's currently fuel costs, burning natural gas, were one third of total production, which they hope to reduce.Transporting the briquettesfrom the Latrobe Valley to Geelonghas also been negotiated between both partiestominimise inconvenience to the residential areas around the plant.

10 years ago, October 12015

Shops targetedinMoe theftspree

POLICE detectives are investigating aspate of burglaries in Moe in which eightbusinesses were targeted in the town's central business district on Sunday night. Six shops in Moe Plaza and

twoothersinnearby Moore Street were broken into late Sundaynight or earlyMonday morning. It's believedthe thieves broke into the plaza via aback door and movedfrom shop to shop in the rear section of the building,stealingmainly float money from registers and damaging several walls which they broke through to access each building. Montree cafe co-owner Chriss Leesaid the incident hadbroughtbusiness owners in the plazacloser, and they remaineddefiant. "We've beenworkingreally hard with all the businesses in here and trying to get together to make the plaza like acentral hub like it used to be", Mr Lee said yesterday. "We all want the plaza to do well, and we're afamily, almost, the way we've come together (since Sunday night's robbery)."

Shoppers arrived at the plaza early Monday to find it closed during the initial investigation DetectiveSenior Constable Ian Walksaid police were still compiling alist of stolen goods from the shop.

Get Together today

THE Get Together groupwill meet again today from 10am at the Traralgon Uniting Church, Park Lane. Join the group for acuppa anda chat.

Bring afriend. All are welcome.

TyersParkwalk

JOIN Ben Cruachan Walking Club and Strzelecki Walking Club on one of three walks in Tyers Park this Saturday.

Meet at 9am at the barbecue shelter in Wirilda Environment Park, Clarkes Road, Yallourn North. Bring lunch, water, wetweather gear and wear sturdy footwear.

For details of the individual walks and to register,visit the Ben Cruachan Walking Club website.

Boolarra museum

NEXT time you visit Boolarra,take some time to visit the local museum in the Old PrimarySchool, corner Irving and Tarwin Streets.

The museum is open the first Sunday of everymonth,the nextopening this Sunday,from 2pm to 4pm

Reflectingthe farming and timber industry history of Boolarra and district, the museumoffers acomprehensive artefact and photo display of its history.

The museum is also open for acuppa and chat on the third Tuesday of the month from 2pm to 4pm with atopic of interest. On October 17, during History Month,the focuswill be on childhoodgames’ (such as skippy, marbles, yoyos) and on November 18 the focus will be on ‘our ancestors’.

If you see the red flag flying, then the museum is open for business.

Formoreinformation phone Roz on 0429 383686.

Givecroquet ago

IF you would liketotry anew sport which is suitable for all ages, Traralgon Croquet Club is holding

Putting

Community Corner with Liam Durkin

come and try day this Sundayfrom 11am to 3pm at 66-110 McNairnRoad, Traralgon.

Flat-soled enclosed shoes are your only requirement and the vlub 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 will also have social play on aSaturday and Tuesday from 12.30pm for a12.45pm start.

On Wednesday nights, beginning next week,from 5pm to 8pm, twilight croquet will be held, providingan opportunity for working people to have agoatcroquet.

For more information phone Alison on 0447 276 783.

School reunion

MIRBOONorth Secondary College class of 1970 are hopingtoget back together.

It is believed quite afew past students still live in the Latrobe Valley.

The reunion is being held Sunday, November 9atNarracanHall from midday.

If you are apaststudent, email Wendy Harrison at: typeworks.wh@ gmail.com

Orchid club

THE Gippsland Orchid Club held asuccessful winter show in August with some fantastic plants on the show bench and also awell-stocked sales benchwhich kept volunteers busy for thetwo days of the show.

Also during August, the club shared abus with Sale Orchid Club on atrip to the State Orchid Show in Melbourne. The Gippsland Orchid Club receiveda

their best foot forward

INSPIRED by Linda Pink from LV Country Line Dancers, the Yarragon Rebels Bootscooters and the Ringwood Ramblin’Rose joined forces to raisemuch needed funds for Lifeline Gippsland’s Depression and Suicide Awareness fundraiser event.

Acollection of 180 dancers came together for line dancing across the two days from September 20 to 21.

Since 2018, the three groups have danced, socialised, and raised funds through various member-led initiatives cumulating in $142,505, inclusive of this year’s total of $20,000.

Ms Pink shared thatmanyofthe members have direct and indirect impacts of suicide.

“The benefit to our own sense of belonging, friendships, and general comradery and support our membersprovideone anotherimproves our own mental health,” she said.

“We watch out for one another, we check in, we share stories.

“Helping Lifeline Gippsland, as our charity of choice, is giving to an organisation that is an extension of our family.”

Lifeline Gippsland CEO, Cindy Pullar was appreciative of the entire group’s support.

“All the membersare so inclusive and welcoming, they are ahumbleand energeticgroup,whose donationsover the yearshas helped us answer 3653 calls from individuals, ensuring they were not alone during their darkest hours,” she said.

“The opportunitytoraise awareness about mentalhealth and suicide, reducingthe stigma of helpseeking, and supportingpeople to reach out.”

Lifeline Gippslandemploys18staff and engages 160 volunteers, operating across the region by supporting the 13 11 14 crisis line, as well as delivering suicide prevention programs.

Ms Pullar shared that “only asmall percentage of our funding is from the State Government.”

“The support and commitment from community groups such as the line dancing clubs allows us to continue our work in regional Victoria.”

Ms Pink from LV Country Line Dancers,Sue LukefromYarragonRebel Bootscooters, and Elaine Kong from Ringwood Ramblin’Rose all lead and engage their community of dancers, inspiring them to give back by helping Lifeline Gippsland save lives.

third placeribbonfor its display, plus severalmembers received individual awards.

The club’s most recent general meeting, held on September 11, was well-attended.Guest RobinBavinton spoke on preparing plants for shows, including labelling, cleaning of plants and their pots, and staking of plants where required.

Today, the club will be setting up for its springshow. The showshave been very successful at Mid Valley Shopping Centre, with support from the Centre Office Staff. The show will open at 9am on Friday and Saturday.

The monthly meeting and AGM will be held on Thursday, October 8, at the Anglican Hall, 100 Grey Street, Traralgon. Doorsopenat1pm fora 1.30pm start.

Members have been asked to bring along asmall plate to share with others at afternoon tea.

For more information phone Pat on 0407 741 621.

Parkinson’s supprt

THE next meeting of Parkinson’s Peer Support will be on Thursday, October 9, from 11am to 1pm at Gippsland Rotary Centenary House, 39 Valley Drive, Traralgon.

Living with Parkinson’s or caring for someone with Parkinson’s is full of challenges, but you don’t have to feel alone. The group’s warm, informal gatherings offer asafespace to share experiences, learn from others and discover practical strategiesfor managing daily challenges.

The group is supported by Fight Parkinson’s Victoria, providing access to the latestupdates in Parkinson’s management and more.

There is no cost involved, all are welcome.

Just victory

KEEGAN Just was the lead player last week at Latrobe Valley Chess Club,winning the decisive clash against Ian Hamilton.

PeterBakkerwon two games but overlooked major threats too often.

The win was pending in each game for Steve Ahernalthoughthe mistakes were too much to handle.

Cliff Thornton won two games and helped Samnatanat Juers keep in touch with club events.

Kyson Ward continued with the rapid rise in technique to find two wins.

Statty familyfair

THE Avon Anglican Family Fun Fair willbeheld this Sunday from10am to 2pm at in the Stratford Anglican Church precinct, 26 McFarlane St. Entry and all kids’ activitiesand treats will be free, and lunch will include a$1sausage sizzle, free sandwiches and drinks.

The many freeattractionswill include trackless train,pet show, animal petting, jumping castles, face painting, fairy floss, balloon twisting, volunteersdistributing treats, free lucky dips and free children’s books, free handcrafted wooden toys, mainly music items, and many other children’s activities.

For the grown-ups, background music by the BriagolongStrum Group, araffle with great prizes, bargain cakes and plants stall, free native plantsfrom the Stratford Landcare stand, and arange of hand-crafted wooden attractions at the Stratford Men’s Shed stand.

Thepopular pet show,judged by Dr Steve Postlethwaite, will feature again this year with registrations accepted from 10.15am on the day. Sections include best smallpet (cats, birds, guinea pigs etc.), best small dog and best large dog, best costumedpet, pet that looks most like owner, waggiest tail, best tricks performed by pet, and the grand parade. Pets must be under

the control of the owner and dogs on leash.

In the caseofwet weather, most activities will be under cover.

NominateMoe’s topcitizens

NOMINATIONS for the LionsClub of Moe Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year Awards will close at the end of the month.

If you know of any personwho deserved either award, now is the time to nominate them.

The awards, to be presented on AustraliaDay at Heritage Park, Moe, pay tribute to the outstanding volunteerswho help make the communitystrong and abetter place to live and work.

There are two categories, one for Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year for ages between 12 and 25 years andAustraliaDay Citizen of the Year

All nominations must either be aresidentofthe Moe-Newborough area or have contributed and demonstrated outstanding service to the Moe-Newboroughcommunity in a voluntary capacity.

Closing date for the nominations is October 31 at 5pm.

For more information or for acopy of the nomination form phone Robert Sharrock on 0497 299 719 or email maroby@bigpond.com

Youcan be apartof Community Corner

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

You can address correspondence to the editor, Liam Durkin.

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

Says it rightthere: Locallinedancing groups came together to raise$20,000 forLifelineGippsland. Pictured lefttoright is Graham Luke, LindaPink, ElaineKong,Lifeline GippslandCEO,Cindy Pullar,and SueLuke. Photograph supplied

Film focusing on farmers’ mental health

AFREE screening of Just AFarmer will be held at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, Warragul, on Wednesday, October 22.

The film uses the power of storytelling to illuminate the silent struggles within Australian farming communities, raising awarenessof mental health issues and the lack of comprehensive medical support in rural areas, fostering empathy, and driving the conversation around mental health.

Just AFarmer transcends traditional cinema, authentically portraying the challengesand triumphs of aresilient farmerinrural Australia.

This film journey amplifies the often-overlooked voices of rural communities and sheds light on mental health struggles

It's more than amovie; its adedicated movement creating awareness, dismantling'stigmas, and impacting the well-being of rural Australia.

Just AFarmer breaks new ground, fostering understanding, inspiring collective action, and

assuringindividuals they don't face darkness alone.

Just AFarmer is acompelling drama that authentically portrays the impact of suicide on a ruralAustralian family, sheddinglight on critical mental health issues in farming communities.

The film celebrates the resilience of farmer's wives and community support amidst heartbreak, set against the captivating backdrop of rural Victoria.

The story unfoldsasAlison is left to manage an ailing farm and an alcoholic father-in-law after her husband's sudden death, navigatingthe challengesofrurallife.The filmexplores generational trauma, love, loss, and the undeniable resilience of afarming community in the face of tragedy.

This film is the brainchild of Victorian farmer Leila McDougall who saw the needand then wrote the screenplay,and decided then to act in it as well to keep costs down. Yet the movie is anything but amateurish and it is in fact a polished and powerful movie. Leila and her

husband also funded the production by raising $500,000 against their farm. That is commitment.

The film is more than anarrative; it's atestament to the resilienceoffarming families. It addresses mental health, generational trauma, and the strugglesofrural lifewith warmth and heart- auniversal story with apowerful emotional connection.

Admission to screening in Warragul is free, but booking is essential.

Doors open at 4pmwithashortintroduction and ashort address from federal Member for Monash Mary Aldred.

The film will begin around 4.30pm, and there will be professional counsellors on hand -ifthe movie raises any concerns they can be dealt with confidentially and quickly. The bar will be open after the showing.

To register, go to www.wgac.com.au or phone 5624 2456

Everybody cut Footloose

ST Paul’s Anglican Grammar School students are set to dazzleaudiences with their 2025 musical production of Footloose opening at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, October 16.

This high-energy show follows Ren, acity teenager who landsinasmall town governed by strict rules, including aban on dancing. What unfolds is avibrant story of rebellion, resilience and the joy of self- expression, all set to an unforgettable 80s soundtrack featuring hits like Let’s HearItfor the Boy, Holding Out for aHero,and of course the famoustitle number, Footloose

Along with the heartfelt story, audiences can expect dynamic vocals,big dancenumbers and plenty of infectious Footloose spirit.

Catch the fun, tunesand get ready to ‘cut loose’ at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Thursday, October 16 to Saturday, October 18.

Camp to experience the city

ST Paul’s Anglican Grammar School Year 9 students swappedclassroom walls for city streets during their City Experience camp, staying three nightsatMelbourne’s Space Hotel and exploring the CBD.

Part of the Year 9Personal Development Program, the experience provided students with ahands-on tasteofindependence andcity life.

From touring the MCG and Sports Museum to exploring the ShrineofRemembrance, visiting the Music Vault and taking part in the Geography and Places Melbourne Tour, studentspacked their days with culture, historyand alittle urban adventure.

The trip offered plenty of opportunities for

students to make memories, connect with peers and experience Melbourne’s many attractions firsthand,developingskillsthat willlastwell beyond the camp.

By the time theadventure hadended, the students had not only ticked off along list of activities but also gained confidence and savvy in navigating the city.

The CityExperience campisjust one aspect of the St Paul’s Year 9Personal Development Program, which also includes personalised learningfocus areas on Study Skillsand Time Management; Acceptance and Resilience; Identity and Relationships; and Careers and Pathways.

MONDAY29SEPTEMBER

FRIDAY3OCTOBER

Scarlette Williams turns 6

THURSDAY2OCTOBER

Kingston Sheedy turns 4

Goldie Hermens turns 6

Anneke Scott turns 11

Aarnavi Parankusham turns 7

Ollie

SUNDAY5 OCTOBER

turns 8

Year 9studentsinthe MCG Media Centre: (back) Stella,Mia, Sophie,Violet, Makinley and Lacie; (front) Izzy,Isabella and Alexandra.

Lockedup: Students tour theeerie Old Melbourne Gaol.

Taking charge: Gavina at the Old Magistrates Court. Photographs supplied

Rehearsalsunderway: students going through amusical number

Harry and Georgia rehearse their characters, Renand Ariel. Photographs supplied

Just someofthe maincast: Georgia, Veratta, Harry, Jake and Sienna.

Business Guide

Business Guide

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At the coreofHireA Hubby Latrobe Valley’ssuccess is its team of highlyskilled professionals,

HIRE AHUBBYLATROBE VALLEY BUSINESS

including carpenters, cabinetmakers, plasterers, and metal fabricators. In addition to theircollectiveexpertise

HireA Hubby Latrobe Valleyhas acomprehensive, triedand tested backing of licensed trades supporting the team on projects.This ensures that everyproject is completed with precision and attention to detail.

David, the business owner, is guided by acommitmenttoquality and customer satisfaction. With a background in industrial maintenance and engineering,David brings a wealth of experience to thetable, driving the company’scontinued growth and success

One of HireA Hubby Latrobe

Valley’skey strengths lies in its thorough understanding of regulatory requirements,including the National Construction Code,Disability Standards A.S.1428and the Residential TenancyAct. This ensures that everyproject is completed to thehighest standard, with a focus on safetyand compliance

Whether it’sinstalling safeaccess ramps,managing maintenance on rental properties or upgrading your privatehome,HireA Hubby Latrobe Valleyofferstailored solutions to meet the unique needs of its clients.AtHire AHubby Latrobe Valley, theircommitment to client satisfaction extends to comprehensiveinsurance coverage,

rigorous police background checks fortheir staff, and adherence to Working with Children requirements

HireA Hubby Latrobe Valley’steam is made up of local guysand gals with acommitment to thecommunity. The team is large enough to tackle large or volume jobs and small enough to ensurehigh standards with apersonal touch.

Forthose seeking reliable property maintenance services and exceptional customer service,HireA Hubby Latrobe Valleyisthe name to trust. Contact them todayat0473 311 990 to learnmoreorcheckthem out on Facebook.

TO BUY

A.G.M. MOE

Garage Sales •

CHURCHILL 33 Hawthorn Crescent ,4/10/25 -Sat, 8am-2pm. General h/hold items,70's records, books, bric-a-brac, CD and DVD's.

MOE 18 Parkside Dr, Sat 4th Oct, 9am -2pm. H'hold items, 6x4 trailer, furniture, gym equip, elec items, TV and much more.

Personals •

MALE 77y.o. looking for a nice lady for friendship, companionship and outings. Ilove all types of music, the cinema, sports, motorcycle GP and V8s. I'm Collingwood tragic. Reply to: Merv, Reply No. 3281, LV Express, 21 George St, Morwell 3840.

TRARALGON 24A Albert St, Sat 8am-12pm. tomato, zucchini, pumpkin seedlings (and others) available. Homemade produce (relish, chutney, jam, sauce and lemon spread). Bric-a-brac items also. All Saturday's in October. All proceeds to Guide Dogs Victoria.

New

Responsibility PLEASE CHECK YOUR AD

Please check your ad on the firstday and bring any errors to theattention of the Classifieds Department immediately.

TheLatrobe Valley Express makes everyefforttoavoid errors. We regret thatwecannot be responsible forany errors beyond the first day if you fail to bring it to our attention.

No allowances can be made for errors notmaterially affectingthe effectiveness of the ad. Position cannot will not be guaranteed.

All claims foradjustmentofcredit must be made within seven days afterbilling date.

Door Installer

NORFOLK ISLAND

21-29 May 2026

9fun filled days

Flights and accom 14 tour meals

All inclusive

$4750 twin $5549 single JAYBEE TOURS 0408 341 451

DID YOUKNOW?

The person most likely to buy your vehicle caravan or boat etc is a

ELECTRICIAN

Specialising

GARDENING DONE

Pruning, planting, weeding, small jobs through to large jobs, shed clean ups, rubbish removal, etc. Reasonable rates, pens. disc. Under NDIS the cost of services may be covered by your Care Provider. Reliable and efficient. Police check. Fully insured. 18 yrs exp. Chauncy The Gardener. ABN 17268203656. Call Richard 0401 345 345.

GARDEN WORK

10% cheaper on any quote. Mowing, whipper snipping, weeding. Call Gavin 0422 021 732

MORWELL 111 Comans St, Sat, 8am-3pm. Boxing bag and gloves, bikes, tools, table with 6chairs, glassware, odds and ends. Make an offer. All must go. 51333475 HANDY ANDY'S Maintenance services Gardening, lawns. No job too small. 0407355 563.

Petite, sexy, beautiful, polite, great Service. In/Outcalls. 0421 367 038

footpaths, crossovers etc. Phone Justin 0409479737 Adult Services •

Does your current marketing hit the correct audience? Reach morethan just your

We reservethe right to revise or restrict any ad we deem objectionable and to change the classification when necessaryto conform to the policy of this newspaper In the event an ad is omitted from publication, we assume no liabilityfor such omission.

TRARALGON 33 Bank Street, Saturday 9am1pm. Good mix of items. Clothes, games, dvd's, books, puzzles, new stationary, 300 beanie babies and household items. Come and have a look. Abit of everything! CONTRACT

Auctions •

GEAR &MORE

2826 Princes HWY.Kalimna West Vic. 3939 Sunday 5Oct 2025at11am Go to auctionaus.com.au for full details. Auctioneer; Dennis Hall Ring 0429 111085

HVP Plantations (HVP) is seeking Expressions of Interest from experienced harvesting contractors to undertake the following thinningharvest task:

Location: North East, Victoria

Resource: First &Second thinning of Pradiata plantations Quantity: Up to 270,000 tonnes per annum Commencement: 1July 2026 Term: Up to 5years

For additionalinformation, parties must register their interest by Tuesday 7October 2025 via email to Chris. phillips@hvp.com.au

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE:

Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns.

Our Situations Vacant columns are reserved for advertisements which carry aspecific and genuine offer of employment. Ads for `Business Opportunities' and `Training Courses' and `Employment Services' should be submitted under those headings.

Placing misleading ads is an offence against the Trades Practices Act and state/territory fair trading acts and all advertisements are subject to the publisher's approval. For further advice, contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 302 502 or your state consumer affairs agency.

DELIVERERS WTD

Motor Mart

COMMODORE VZ 2006 Executive. 1WG4GF reg exp 1/9/2026. Auto, runs excellent. Current rwc, reverse camera. No longer needed. $4,000. Ph. (03) 5167 1619

LUXURY Lexus LS430 2004 top of the range in excellent cond. RWC, 2 keys, books, 213,500km. $19,500. Genuine interest only. 0419 365 428.

Selling avan?

Don't waste time waiting for buyers, or on endless consignment plans, sell it today we'll pay cash now. Affordable Caravans 0418 336 238, 5623 4782.

Marine

3.9M Quintrex. 15HP Evinrude, front controls, canopy, BILGE pump, Lowrance depth sounder, marine radio, all safety equipment, 12mths rego. $3,500 ono. 0412 998 860.

MOTORING SPECIAL

Would you like to deliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Morwell, Traralgon, Moe, Newborou gh and Churchill? Please apply to the Circulation Manager 0456 000 541. Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Employment Permit Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted. Adult deliverers also welcome.

APPRENTICE PRINTING MACHINIST

An apportunity exists at out Print Site for an enthusiatic and focused person wanting to become apart of the WebOffset Printing Industry. Youwould be learning from the ground up how to operate and maintain our Goss Community printing press whilst working rotating day and afternoon shifts and a9day fortnight.Trade Schooling would also be an important part of your training.

To be sucessful, you must be motivated with a ‘Can Do’ attitude and capable of working as part of ateam in abusy environment.A strong mechanical aptitude would be adefinite advantage as well as areliable means of transport

To be considered for this position, please forward acover letter and resume, containing your educational standards and interests, along with references to:

The PrintManager

Email:printing@lvexpress.com.au

5Jones Road

Morwell 3844

Applications close Friday 17 October 2025

SELL!

On your 100th birthday From your loving family

ANFRIED Gerhard Hans Passed away peacefully, aged 86 years. Loving husband of Joan (dec.). Loving father of Barry, Lucy (dec.), Rita and Rebecca. Pop of eleven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. Reunited with Joan.

BAILLIE (Wulffers) Lauran Our sweet sister, passed away 2/9/2025 in Townsville surrounded by her beautiful family. Forever in our hearts, reunited with Dad, Mum and Simon. Loved to Darryl, Adam, Kate and Damien. We will treasure all our memories forever more. Dianne and Mark, Julie and Lytton, Mark, Colleen and families. ♥♥♥

BOUSE Peter Russell 5/12/1951 -11/9/2025

Passed away peacefully 11 September 2025, aged 73 years. Loving father to Bea and cherished grandfather to Lachlan. Forever loved and remembered.

BOUSE Peter 5/12/1951 -11/9/2025 Loved Uncle of Sharon, Debbie and Samantha and their families.

LIMBOM Jane Margaret 13/6/1967 -18/9/2025 She died peacefully after along illness. The daughter of Marie and Neil. A wonderful mother to Danielle, George, Alexandra. Acaring sister to Jennifer, Kylie and Peter, Martin, Jeff and Helen. Adored aunt to all her nieces and nephews. Forever in our hearts, no more pain. Now at rest with God in Heaven. Rest In Peace.

LOW James Stanley My darling Jim, husband of Barb for 63 years. Passed away 11 September with his family by his side. Never to be forgotten. Don't miss us too much, Dad, Grandad and GreatGrandad. We love you lots.

MURPHY Bernard (Barney) Born 22 November 1947. Passed away on 22 September 2025. Passed away peacefully at Latrobe Regional Health with his family by his side. Aged 77 years Loving husband to Yuphin. Much loved father and father-in-law of Chaya, Kristen, Jaclyn, Scott and Phum. Adored Pop to Matthew, Noah and Xavier. Loving brother and brother-in-law to Peter (dec.), Barbara, Ann, Gerald, Diane, Trish, Helen and Frank. Now at rest, we will miss you, so sleep peacefully. Forever in our hearts.

SEBESTYEN

Otto Sandor

31/10/1938 -28/9/2025

Passed away peacefully at LRH with loving family by his side, Sunday 28 September 2025. Aged 86 years. Loved and loving husband of Ann. Loving father and fatherin-law of Margo, Michelle and Blue, and Rachel and Chris. Adored grandpa of Kieran, Emily, Dimitri and Jasmina. Great grandpa of Olivia. Awonderful person, so loving and kind. What beautiful memories you have left behind. Sharing and caring, always content, loved and respected wherever you went. Gone hunting and fishing.

SURREY Gladys 4/10/1934-26/9/2025

Beloved wife of Norman (dec.).

Loving Mum of Sheena, Mandy and Debbie (dec.). Proud Nanna of Debbie's children, Mellissa and Michael. Sheena's children, Ricky, Casey, Lee and Corey. And Great-Nan to Casey's children, Mackenzie, Amelia, Noah and Keena. Michael's children, Airley and Lyric. Lee's children, Charlette, Izzabelle, Farren and Talen. Ricky's children-Nikkita and Xander (dec.). FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS. 4/10/1934-26/9/2025

The personmostlikely to buy your vehicle, boat,caravan etc. is a LOCAL PERSON! We have aGREAT PRICED MOTORING PACKAGE where your ad runs in our paper and in the Sale paper also FOR FREE INCREASE YOUR MEDIA COVERAGE

BOUSE Peter Russell Our deepest sympathy to the Bouse family. Always aloving member of our community. The best neighbour anyone could ask for. All our love, the Massese Family. We will always remember you.

DOUCH Mary Lamont 31/3/1949 -26/9/2025 Loving Wife, Mother,Gran. "I'll be in Scotland afore ye"

NIDDRIE Stanley Roy (Stan) 18/8/1937-26/9/2025 Passed away suddenly, surrounded by love. Loved husband of Marg 'Maggie' (dec.). Devoted father to Sharyn, Leanne (dec.) and Tracey. Survived and loved by sister Carole. Loved stepfather, pop, uncle, brother and friend to many. Stan was ahardworking, loyal family man and talented sportsman. He will be sadly missed and will always be in our hearts. Afull life well lived, may he rest in peace and be reunited in heaven with his beloved Maggie. Your loving family.

ANFRIED

The Funeral of Mr Gerhard Hans Anfried will arrive at the Yallourn Cemetery, Haunted Hills Road, Yallourn, WEDNESDAY (8 October 2025) for a Graveside Service to commence at 11am.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

Tenders are invited from suitably qualified contractors for the above See www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/tenders for details

Submissions are to be lodged as detailed in the documentation. Council is not boundto accept the lowest or any tender

HOPPE Gloria Elizabeth 18/5/1941 -25/9/2025 Passed away after ashort battle. At Peace now. Much loved mother to Peter, Paul, Mark and Michelle. Loved by entire family and friends. Always in our hearts.

NILSSON Lyell Edgar Passed away peacefully at Baw Baw Views Moe, 27 September 2025. Aged 86 Years. Dearly loved husband of Thelma (dec.). Much loved father of Karen (dec.), Tracey, Wendy Philip, Donna and their partners. Adored grandfather to all his grand and greatgrandchildren.

William (Bill) Thomas Passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving wife Beth and family, Monday 22 September 2025. Aged 93 years Loving father of Kaye, Chris and Libby. Loved and respected father-in-law of Mark, Yvonne and James. Cherished Grandpa to his seven granddaughters and great-grandchildren. At peace at last.

BOUSE Peter Russell Family and friends are invited to attend aservice to celebrate Peter's life on FRIDAY (3 October 2025) at the Latrobe Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Ave Moe, commencing at 11am. Private Cremation In honour of Peter's passion, please wear your football colours.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your

on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

HERNI The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mrs. Marietta Catharina Herni will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy Traralgon TUESDAY (September 30 2025) commencing at 2pm. The Service for Marietta will also be livestreamed, please visit: latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au for further instructions.

ROYAL Flair Elite 18ft, 3-way fridge, m/w, d/axle, QS bed, elec. brakes, TV, annexe, new awning, bbq, outside table, exc. cond., $23,000. 0419 895 218.

NIDDRIE

The funeral service and committal for cremation for Mr Stanley (Stan) Niddrie will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Hwy Traralgon FRIDAY (10 October 2025) commencing at 1.30pm.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your

NILSSON

The funeral service for Mr Lyell Edgar Nilsson will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 437A Princes Way Morwell, TUESDAY (7 October 2025) commencing at 11am. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Hazelwood Cemetery. Lyell's service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream please visit: latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au and click on live streaming.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

MORWELL 5134 4937

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

PALM AService of Thanksgiving and Celebration for the life of Rita Palm will be held at The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Kay Sreet Traralgon, FRIDAY (3rd of October 2025), commencing at 1.30pm. Privately Cremated.

RITCHIE

The Funeral of Mr William (Bill) Thomas Ritchie will arrive at the Traralgon Cemetery, Gippsland Memorial Park FRIDAY (3 October 2025) for a Graveside Service to commence at 2pm.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

SEBESTYEN

The Funeral of Mr Otto Sandor Sebestyen will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway, Traralgon on MONDAY (13 October 2025) commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of refreshments, at our Traralgon Chapel, the Funeral will leave for the Traralgon Cemetery, Gippsland Memorial Park. Otto's service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream, visit our website.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

SURREY

The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mrs Gladys Surrey will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Ave Newborough, on MONDAY (6 October 2025) commencing at 10.30am.

FREEMAN Brian 19/2/1943 -21/08/2025 Elaine, Jacinta, Jackie, and Kate wish to sincerely thank all our friends and family for your loving support, kindness, and heartfelt messages following the passing of Brian. Your presence at his funeralwas deeply appreciated and brought great comfort to us during adifficult time. Aspecial thank you to the staff

Please accept our heartfelt thanks.

SMETHURST John

The Smethurst family wish to thank everyone for your overwhelming love, support and kindness after the recent passing of our much loved Dad and Poppy, John. Your flowers, cards, phonecalls, messages, visits, attendance at his funeral and food packages were greatly appreciated. Please accept our sincere thanks.

Family owned and locally based Funeral Directors

We bring35years experience to families in Traralgon, Morwell, Churchill, Moe, Trafalgar, Korumburra and surrounding areas. THE CHOICE IS YOURS Practical, sensible and affordable. We offerboth at-need and pre-paid funerals. All female funerals are available. Dignityand respect,always CREMATION PACKAGES CREMA AGES FROM $3300

Photos from around the

Grounds

GOLF

CHURCHILL ANDMONASH

Men’sMonthly Medal (Stroke) Saturday 20th September 2025.

Medal Winner: G. Beyer70Nett

ScratchWinner: G. Beyer82

AGrade Winner: G. Beyer70Nett

BGrade Winner: C. Gilfillan73Nett

D.T.L: 1. Ash West 75, 2. A. Auld 77,3.P Kearns 77,4.M.Allan 78

N.T.P: 5th B. Jenkins

Target Hole: M. Hutchinson

4BBB DrawnPartnersTuesday23rd September 2025.

Winners: S. Caldwell/C.Stevens 36 pts

RunnersUp: C. Stevens/K. DalPicollo 32

pts

N.T.P: 5th L. VanRooy, 12th L. VanRooy, 14th L. VanRooy

MOE

Sunday, 21 September 2025 OPEN

SundayMixed Stableford

Grade AWinners: Gilpin, Peter(8) 35 C/B

Grade BWinners: McKenzie,Callum (20)

39 Place Getters: Hamilton, Alec 38 C/B Hamilton, Ian 38 Kovacevic,Daniel 37 Thompson, Peter36

Wednesday, 24 September 2025

WOMEN'S WEDNESDAY 9HOLE

Stableford

Overall Winners: Davy,Kerri(54) 12 Wednesday, 24 September 2025

WOMEN'S STABLEFORD

Grade BWinners: Wallis,Elizabeth (30) 30 Nearest to Pin: 4th Leahann Stewart

Thursday, 25 September 2025 OPEN

Mixed Stableford

Grade AWinners: Yeomans,Wayne (10) 36

Grade BWinners: Backman, Phil (13) 35

Grade CWinners: Spark, Nathan (21) 38

Place Getters: Pace,William 36 Collings, Dale 35 C/B Duncan, Nick34C/B Stansbury, Les 34 C/B Peel, Michael 34 C/B Wilson, Lee 34 Donaldson, Murray 33 C/B Devent, Anton 33 C/B Heland, Jimmy33 C/B Cropley, Mike33

Great Score: Michael Peel (Eagle) @3

Nick Duncan (Birdie) @4

Brayden Taylor (Birdie) @4

Laurie Veenman (Birdie) @14

Murray Donaldson (Birdie) @14

Lee Wilson (Birdie) @8

Eric Beveridge (Birdie) @8

Nearest to Pin: 4th Brayden Taylor 8th Lee Wilson 14th Laurie Veenman

Friday,26September 2025

Grand Final PH OPEN Mixed Stableford

Grade AWinners: Veenman, Laurie (5) 37

Grade BWinners: Dunstan, Craig (16)39

Grade CWinners: Savige,Aiden (44) 45

Place Getters: Duncan, Jack 40

Ratcliffe, Gavin 39 Bechaz, Steve35C/B Weir,Charles 35 C/B Purves,Brandon 35 Chessells,John 34

Great Score: Paul Bechaz (Birdie) @8

Bruce Savige (Birdie) @14

Nearest to Pin: 4th Wayne Yeomans

8th NickSkicko 14th Andrew Shearing

Saturday, 27 September 2025 Grand Final

DayMedley Ambrose (2 Player)

Overall Winners: Aaron Scullin &Simon

Stephens 63.5

Grade APlace

Getters: John Boyce&

David Wright 65.25 C/B Les Stansbury&

Laurie Veenman 65.25 Tony Johnson & Charles Johnson 67 Ambrose (Gross -2

Player) Winner Andrew Pickard &Aaron Bassman 65

Nearest to Pin: 4th WallyWilkinson

8th Andrew Pickard

14th Simon Stephens

Sunday, 28 September 2025 OPEN

SCOREBOARD

SundayMixed Stableford

Grade AWinners: Gilpin, Peter(5) 40

Grade BWinners: Duncan, Nick(11)37 C/B

Grade CWinners: Barnes,Ken (24) 37

Place Getters: Boorer,Greg37C/B Stansbury, Les 36 Donaldson, Murray 35 Westwood, Keith34C/B Hamilton, Alec 34 C/B

MORWELL

Wednesday24th September 2025

Women's Stableford

Div 1: PInger 39

Div 2: BScurlock40

DTL: NTePaa 35

NTP: 2nd APollutro8th BScurlock4011th

NTePaa 15th BScurlock

TRAFALGAR

18-Holes: Stablefordwith 13 players

18-Hole Winner: Ange Bayley(19)31points

Runner-Up: Donna Mellon (22) 30 points

DTL: Sue Klemke29, Annen Outhred 27, Linda Chapple

NTP: No One

Gobblers: Anne Outhred on the 13th

9-Holes: Stablefordwith 3players

9-Hole players

Winner: Di Bayley16points,Robyn Jones

14 points

Full details of results can be foundon

MiScore

Friday, September 26th, Open Men’s& Ladies Stableford

AGrade Winner: Ryan Wilson 38 pts

BGrade Winner: Tony Gray 38 pts

CGrade Winner: Lachlan Dart 40 pts

DTL's: Adrian Jones 37,Damian Blackford

37,Bob Baldry36, Jess McGrath 36, Denis Dyke 35, Chris Brydon 35, PeterHeathcote

35, Amanda McLure35, MickWest 35,

Trevor McDonald 34, Doug Anderson 34 C/B

Eagle: 7th: Ryan Wilson Birdies: 5th: PeterMoss,MikeWilcox, Doug Anderson, Lee Orchard11th: Ryan

Wilson 13th: Graham Rawson, Ryan Wilson 15th: RickLee,Damian Smith, Paul Gridley, AnthonyGould

Saturday, September 27th, Stableford

AGrade Winner: MarkHiriart42pts

BGrade Winner: Lachlan Dart 38 pts

DTL’s: Jeff Hasthorpe 39, Jeff Matthews

38, John Tabuteau 37,DwayneJenkins

36, Chad McKie 35, Jim O’Brien 35, Paul Massey34, RonPuke34 C/B

Eagle: 6th: John Tabuteau

NTP’s: 2nd: John Tabuteau 5th: Paris

Christian 11th:JeffHasthorpe 13th:Lachlan

Dart 15th: Tony Bickley

Tuesday: 23/09/25 :Stableford

Players: 22, Women 4, Men 18

Winners: Wayne Dunn (21)

Runner Up: Vic Hill (20)

DTL : Nola Fordham (19) BevKeily(19)

John Turpin (18)Sue DeVries (17) Norm Mether (17)

NTP: No One

Lucky Gard: Ivan Grant

Thursday: 25/09/25 -Stableford

Players: 47,Women 16,Men 31

Ladies Winner :KarenSwingler (20)

Runner Up: Sue DeVries (19) c/b

DTL Diane Mullen (19) Sam Caldow(19)

Sue Klemke(18)Sue Williams (18)

NTP (13th) Sue Klemke

Lucky CardBev Keily

Mens Winner : Chris Griffin(23)

Runner UP : Frank Kiss (21)

DTL : RobDeVries (20) Dennis Scambler (20) Laurie Snowball (19) Glenn Doolan (19)

AnthonyCunningham (19)

NTP (13th): NormMether

Lucky Card: Harold McNair

YALLOURN

Ladies Tuesday23-9-25

9Hole Stablefordwinner: Lola Carter (16) 17 pts

Thursday25-9-25

18 Hole Stablefordwinner: Judy Budge (43) 32 pts

DTL: Sue Riches (31)31

TRARALGON mon 15/9/25Air pistol CGrade: VBaldwin 508-66-574.

DGrade: LMorris 205. JWest 192-165-357 Sat 20/9/24 morning Standardpistol

CGrade: CGoodchild 444-111-555. DGrade: BGoodwin 431-158-589. H Miller 403-242-645. KPeters398. LMorris 285-147-432. KBeaufort218-293-411. Afternoonshoot Centrefire

DGrade: BChapman 397-143-540. H Shields 359-188-547 25 Mt pistol

DGrade: LKlein 423-166-589. HMiller 386

Photograph: KatrinaB ndon

graph: Katrina B d

Emma Farley

the Kangaroos upsetChurchill

The local summer sport launches

CRICKET CLV

BY LIAM DURKIN

WIVES and partners of local cricketers, get your goodbyes in now -the newseason startsthis weekend.

Forthe next six months (barring athree-week break over Christmas), countless cricket devotees will grace the grounds of the Latrobe Valley every Saturday for hoursonend,trying, sometimessucceeding, often failing, to play abat and ball game within the confines of 42 laws.

The action will be just as exhilarating as thatseen on television -atleast in the minds of those playing.

Uninitiated localsmay walk past cricketgrounds devoid of any atmosphere or spectators and wonder what all the fuss is about. Rest assured however, Saturday park cricket is Test cricket for many.

Outsiders simply don’t understand: succeed once in cricket and it will be enough to keep you coming back time and time again.

Perhaps more importantly, cricket reflects life in so many ways: you will cop bad decisions, you will perform well and still go unrewarded, and also have unexpected turns of luck along the way.

Whilethe game was originally created to exhibit English exceptionalism, that notion was presumablylost oncethe boats arrived, andover time, beenlargely forgotten under the beatingheatof the harsh Australian sun.

Now,the weekend warriorsofgrade cricketbattle to establish their own superiority.

And so they will once again when the Cricket Latrobe Valley season commences this Saturday.

Stateofplay

THE league welcomed anew president at the annual meeting, with Evan Sheekey entering the fold.

Sheekey, well-known to many on the local sportingscene,has played cricket in the area for more than two decades across stints with YallournNorth, Latrobe, CATS and Moe.

His appointment cameabout after being approachedbyMoe Cricket Club teammate and incumbent CLV board member, Pat Spiteri.

Realisingthe need for peoplearoundthe 40-yearold age bracket to starttaking on leadership roles, Sheekeyput his hand up.

He takes overthe second-biggest country cricket league in Victoria, withclose to 20 teamsunder his watch.

Thereisalsomuch for the new president and his board to navigate, with at least two turf wicket venues out of action for some time.

Moe’s Ted Summerton Reserve is currently a construction site, while Latrobe won’t be back at Peter Siddle Oval until after Christmas.

Ted Summerton is undergoing upgrades as part of theCommonwealth Gamespackage, expected to be completed by May next year.

The Lions willplay home games at Burrage Reserve, Newborough and Moe Racecourse in the interim.

TheSharks meanwhileare on the road for the firsthalf of the season, but willhope Christmas brings them anew present in the form of abrand new facility.

Some interest will surround the batting aggregates of Moe players especially, who won’t have the luxury of batting on the Ted Summerton Reserve freeway.

Churchill is counting down the days until its new

oval at Gaskin Park is ready, but will remain at Andrews Park West in the meantime.

Elsewhere, further upgrades have seen Toongabbie open its new undercover nets, allowing players to train under lights, while Raiders will have five lanes available at Yinnar Recreation Reserve.

Mirboo North is also constructing apicket fence aroundits turfoval, which, with its hugehilllooking down on the ground, will make for one of the most picturesque views in the area.

Gormandale is celebrating 20 years at Stoddart Oval, Traralgon, having relocated from the Gormandale Recreation Reserve.

Grades

TRARALGON Imperialsmoveupinto Premier A, after winning the AGrade premiership last season.

AGrade minorpremier, Churchill has also been promoted, following adominant season that saw them finish 15 points clear on top of the ladder.

While Churchill did not win the premiership, they more or less got what they wanted out of last season, citing right from the outset their intentions of getting back into Premier A.

Oddly enough,the Cobrasdid not even make the Grand Final, although it would have been quite farcical if they stayed in AGrade given they registered more than three times as many bonus points as the eventual premier.

Churchill clearly didn’t deserve to be punished following one poor weekend across an entire season, and will now look to the challenge of playing Imps, Ex Students, Glengarry, Centrals, Morwell, Moe and Toongabbie in the top flight.

Raiders and CATS have been relegated, and will want to ensure their stay is as short as possible. That might be easier said than done, especially

after what Latrobe managed in the semi-final last season, and no one can ever discount Mirboo North (they could honestly lose every game up until Christmas and stillwin the flag -they are just that type of team).

Rounding out the AGrade competition for 2025/26 is:Rovers, Traralgon West, Gormandale and Willow Grove.

Rovers has entered the podcast world, launching aclub-based program 2Centres Thanks available on Spotify.

Jeeralang-Boolarra will spend another season in Premier B, but are understood to be planning to come back into AGrade down the track. Meanwhile, the league’s greatestsocialclub, Thorpdale,will have another season of mates cricket in BPremier

The league has done away with two day cricket in BPremier after trialling the format last season. While it was worth atry, it was probably never going to last.

Rawson are also back, and will look to have another fun, boot-scooting season in CGrade.

Cricketfamily

THE local cricket world bid farewell to two prominent figures over the offseason.

Former umpire and Moe Cricket Club stalwart, Trevor Blandford passed away, as did Brian Gregory, the man behind the renowned Gregory Sports shop in Newborough.

The shop hadanunbelievable rangeofnostalgic cricket equipment,particularly old Puma Millichamp bats.

In other sad news, former CentralGippsland umpires boss John Wirz died recently after along battle with ill health.

Same old Students, alwayswinning: TheSharks lookliketheywill again be among the topsides in CricketLatrobeValleythisseason. Newchallenge:

Head honcho: NewCricketLatrobeValley president, Evan Sheekey File photographs

Cricket LatrobeValleyseason snapshot

CRICKET

CLV

NOT much change across the First XI clubs, except in the case of internationals, who are usually only permitted to stay for aseason or two.

Here are the appointments:

Premier A

Ex Students

Last season: premier (11 wins, two losses, three draws)

Coach: Rick Battista

Captain: Jimmy Pryde Ins/outs: none

Glengarry

Last season: runner-up (11 wins, two losses, three draws)

Captain: Nat Freitag

Morwell

Last season: third (nine wins, three losses, three draws)

Captain/coach: Blair Clymo

In: Anton Thomas (Mirboo North), Luke Gettings (import)

Out: Fayaz Homyoon (import)

Centrals

Last season: fourth (seven wins, four losses, three draws)

Captain/coach: Tye Hourigan

Outs: Jake Littleton, Jordan Matthews (imports)

Moe

Last season: fifth (four wins, seven losses, two draws)

Captain/coach: Matt Hibbs

Assistant coaches: Steve Mesaric andDylan

Freitag

Ins: Matt Hibbs (Gormandale), Anubhav

Anubhav (Imperials), Royce Colgrave (returning), Callum Grant(returning international),Dylan Freitag (as bowling coach)

Outs: Keenan Hughes (Raiders), Aaron Johnstone (Imperials),NathanLee (Upwey-Tacoma), Laytten

Smith (Yarragon)

Toongabbie

Last season: sixth (four wins, seven losses, two draws)

Coaches: Sam Moran and Adam Hood

Captain: Tim Dunn

In: Kyle O’Reilly (Bundalaguah)

Imperials

Last season: AGrade premier(promoted)

Coach: Brett Chapman

Captain: Ryan Morley

Ins: Aaron Johnstone (Moe), Ash Van Zuyden (Rovers), Lewis Blake (UK), Charlie Pilling (UK), Leighton Shuttleworth

Outs: Anubhav Anubhav (Moe), James Skingle, TomStarkey, Nick Bullcock.

Churchill

Last season: AGrade minor premier (promoted)

Captain/Coach: Ryan Harvey

Outs: Brendan Mason, Joel Mason, Brae Kelly

South Gippsland table tennis tackles local Traralgon club

TABLE TENNIS

By KATRINA BRANDON

BATTLEerupted betweenthree Gippslandtable tennis associations on Sunday, September 14, as the clubsbrought on aSouth Gippsland versus Traralgon competition.

Each of the clubs has put teams together for the last few weeksinpreparation for the weekend, with eightteams from Traralgon, fourteams from Leongatha and four teams from Wonthaggi participating in the single-day event.

The fierce competition was hosted at the Traralgon Table Tennis Association, starting games at 10.30am.

“We are very grateful to be able to host the first of what we hope to be an annual competition,” Traralgon Table Tennis Association’s club president, Mark Strini said.

“It is great to have both Leongatha and Wonthaggi associationshere today.Despitewinning/losing numbers, today’s competition has been incredible.”

Sorted onto eight tables(matching Traralgon team numbers), the room was divided in half, with the left side designated for Wonthaggi (light blue) andthe rightside for Leongatha (dark blue).

 STARTING on table 1, it was Leongatha’s Michael Chang, Michael Grist and Sven Gebele against Traralgon’s Jeff Pollard, Ian Strong and Mark Strini. Unfortunately for the Traralgon crew, Leongatha’s Michael(s) plus Gebele trio was just too strong for them, winning 11 matches to none.

Thefirst two games, Chang against Pollard and Grist against Strong, came out clean cut as the Leongatha players showed that they were aforce to be reckoned with. It wasn’t until Strini played Gebele that the first match went to five sets, and therethey followed into the doubles, barreling towards four sets. While it wasn’t easy,Chang camethrough without ascratch, and no sets were given to the opposition, apart from the first doubles game. Tightening his belt, Strini got close in his second set to Chang, but couldn’t quite knock over those final points against the Leongatha player. Knocking over 33 sets to six, it was aclear win for Leongatha.

 TABLE 2alsosaw aloss on the Traralgon side as Leongatha’s Neil Chilver, Dirk, and Michael Holwerda took seven games to four against Traralgon’s Kamy Wu, Alan Fullard, and Maya Gomez.

The win by Leongatha stung, as betrayal from Traralgon,asChilver swaps sides for the competition, sharinghis love for achallenge andthe South Gippsland team.

Stepping in with the most challenging games first, all three singles before the first doubles ran to five with Fullard against Dirk, Wu against Chilver and Gomez against Michael. Wavering between winning and losing, Gomez came out on topagainst Michael, with the first set being the lowest in points earned at alow of six points. Next games to follow: stuck with three or four sets. The

AGrade Raiders

Last season: seventh Premier A(relegated)

Coach: Rob Webber

Captain: Liam Maynard

Ins: KeenanHughes (Moe),Tom Griffiths (import), Harvey Rogers-Collen (import)

Outs: DarrynStares(import), Ben Rivers(import)

CATS

Last season: eighth Premier A(relegated)

Coaches: Josh Moore and Callum Stewart

Captain: Nathan Harrap

Ins: Dane Fawcett (Neerim District), Callum Stewart (fulltime)

Outs: Jamie Cochrane, Rory Hare (retired)

Latrobe

Last season: runner-up (six wins, seven losses, two draws)

Captain/coach: Steven Freshwater

Ins: Ed Hopper, Rhys Noble

Outs: Ronnie Chokununga, Sam Wilson, Cameron Freshwater

Rovers

Last season: third (six wins, seven losses, one draw)

Captain/coach: Dougal Williams

Ins: James Hayter, Alex Rathbone, Nick Miller, Josh Segond, Brandon Hamilton, Kade Marsh, LachlanBond, FionaMorrison,EmmaBeddoes, Jo Tucker

Outs: Kitana Chambers, Nicole Morgan, Ash Van Zuyden (Imperials), Rhiannon Van Zuyden

Mirboo North

Last season: fifth (five wins, six losses, two draws)

Captain/coach: Ben Heath

Ins: Nila Thillekerathna (Imperials),Frankie Ingram (import), George Fairbairn (import)

Outs: Anton Thomas (Morwell)

Gormandale

Last season: sixth (four wins, eight losses, two draws)

Coaches: Connor Bettsworth and Nimesh Soyza

Captain: Campbell Peavey Ins: Connor Bettsworth(UK), Buddhima Dissanayake

Outs: Matt Hibbs (Moe), Dylan Keyhoe, Nathan Heard, Tyler Reynolds

WillowGrove

Last season: seventh (three wins, seven losses, one tie, one draw)

Captain/coach: Ben Edebohls

Traralgon West

Last season: eighth (two wins, eight losses, one tie, one draw)

Coach: Josh Monacella

Captain: Hayden Kimpton

Ins: Connor Hughes, Alfie Peck

Outs: Freddie Bowser (import)

Cricket Latrobe Valley Round 1

Saturday, October 4

Premier A

doubles were taken by Dirk and Chilver, with another singles match to Dirkagainst Wu and one to Fullard against Michael.

The secondround of doubles was aHolwerda special, with Wu andGomez playing against Dirk and Michael. Unfortunatelyfor the Holwerda duo, Gomez and Wu were strong enough to take the game into five sets, taking the win.

Whilst it wasn’tMichael’s day, Michael came through against Wu in three sets, with Dirk following behind him with another win.

 ALITTLE hope set in as Traralgon’s table 3, which included Noel Burns, Fiona Fullard and Charlie Boyd, stepped in and won against Leongatha’s Aiden Holwerda, an anonymous player and Sam Holt.

Just winning six games to five, the Traralgon trio couldn’t be happier as the Leongatha team threw together aworthwhile match. Bringing in an “easy”start for Traralgon,Burns and Fullardboth took their games in three, leaving Holt and Holwerda feeling batted. It wasn’t until anonymous player stepped in against Boyd that the team saw awin for the Blues.

Fromthere,nary agamewas wonbelow four sets, with the first doublesgoing to five andFullard against anonymous player and Burnsagainst Holt going to five sets.Eachwin could havebeen tipped either way.

Pressurewas already on for both teams, as Fullard’s win had topped the scales,and the team’s win had been set. By this stage, it was only amatter of how much they were going to win by.

 FULL steam ahead, Traralgon’s table 4team wasn’t ready to let Leongatha’s team pull any games, winning nine matches to two. Traralgon’s Jayden Green, Dylan Wu and Nicki Marchesi thrived against Leongatha’s Katrina Brandon, Trevor Wilson and Harvey Brewer.

Was it alittle anger from Green over Brandon’s betrayal back to theblueside? Who knows, but overpoweringBrandoninthree sets, Green was on the go and ready to be number oneonthe day Brandon securedtwo wins,against Wu and Marchesi, with one in four and another in five.

Looking at the gameresults, it seems likean easy win for Traralgon, with most games being in three, but for both teams, they were fighting for everypoint thatwent over the net and on thetable. The first doubles games went to five sets, with the under-25 team playing the first doubles and Brandon pairedwithWilson against Greenand Marchesi, whichfinishedinthree. Green’s spin spun the web for the Gatha duo, making it easy for the Traralgon side to secure the win.

 SWAPPING over to the light blues, table 6 contained Traralgon’s Steven Warr, Mick Warr and Peter Gomez, who came side by side and won against Wonthaggi’s powerful trio, Justin Licis, Jack Duff and Braden Andrighetto. Winning six games over five, Traralgon pushed just enough to keep their heads above sea level. Brewingupastorm,Stevenand Licisstarted the day with afive-set game. Comingoff the court,not quite strong enough, Licis pushedhard against

Centrals vs Glengarry (at ApexPark)

Moe vs Ex Students (Burrage Reserve)

Churchill vs Toongabbie (AndrewsPark West)

Morwell vs Imperials (Keegan St) AGrade

Gormandale vs CATS (StoddartOval) WillowGrove vs Traralgon West (Willow Grove Rec)

Mirboo North vs Latrobe (Mirboo North Turf)

RaidersvsRovers (Yinnar Turf)

Premier B

Ex Students vs Moe (Old Trafford)

Steven,winning sets oneand four.Fortunately enough for Steven, he was abletopushthrough Licis’ defence, taking 11-8 in the last set.

Making it look easy, Mick followed Steven’s exampleofwinning againstDuff, but showed up winning the game in three.Unfortunately for Gomez, Andrighetto took the win in five sets, breaking the first win for Wonthaggi.

Setscontinuedinthrees and fours from there, with the exclusion of Mick and Andrighetto’s game towardsthe end, where they met in the fifth set andswapped sides, swapping Andrighetto’s good streak for aloss.

The deciding game came down to Duffand Steven, where Mickslammed on his best game hat,not lettingDuff set his smashes down on the table, securing Traralgon the win.

 COMING in like ahammer, poor Traralgon fought out atough battle against Wonthaggi on table 7.

Playing for Traralgon, Guri Soni, Saxon Long and Alan Griffin were thrashednine gamestotwo by Wonthaggi’s Brad Andre, Mark Donohue and David Kimmins. It wasn’t until the secondset of singles that Traralgon tooka game, proving the strengthof Wonthaggi’s trio.

In the first singles, Andre took out Long in five sets, only to be broughtdown by Soni in the second round of singles. Taking thesecondand fourth sets, Andre pushed Soni into the fifth set, pushing the final set to 13-11. Taking another hit, Andre lost to Griffin in the fifth round and was feeling the wear and tear fromthe previous game against Soni.Playingto hisstrengths,Griffinpushed through to take the second win

 READY,but not quite enough,Traralgon’s table 8teamlostonce again to the light blue

Glengarry vs Morwell (FredKing Oval)

Jeeralang-Boolarra vs Churchill (Boolarra No 1)

Toongabbie vs CATS (Roger Ries Oval)

Thorpdale vs Centrals (Thorpdale Rec)

BGrade

Traralgon West vs Gormandale (Jack Canavan)

Rovers vs Mirboo North (Duncan Cameron)

Imperials vs WillowGrove (Catterick Crescent)

Latrobe vs Raiders(Maryvale No 2)

Premier Cand CGrade

StartOctober 11

flames of Wonthaggi.

Wonthaggi’s Warren Wilson,Luke Hiddleand Jay Dunstan wentupagainst Traralgon’s Brian Considine, Sharon Colins and Gavin Carrigg, coming out with eight games to three. Unlucky, Dunstan stood against Considine and cameout losingthe game in three, whilst also playing Colins and losing in five sets.

Traralgon’s third and first win for the day came from thedoubles, whereConsidineand Collins showed up Wilson and Hiddle, with their great teamwork, winning in four sets. Gettingabit worried after losing set two, the Traralgon duo stepped up to the table, securing the win.

Unfortunately for Traralgon, Wonthaggi’strio pulled ahead and kept strong throughout the day, holding steady.

 TAKEN on the final table, Traralgon’s Patrik Wu, Henry Frannsen and Tung Phan lost to Wonthaggi’s Charley Donohue, Michael Streenbergen and Leanne Costello in 10 games to one.

Following the footstepsofMark Donohue, Charley stepped up against Traralgon’s team, keeping persistent throughout the duration of the game. Lucky Phan claimed the one win for Traralgon against Wonthaggi’s Costello. Fierce and strong wasn’t enough for Costello to breach Phan’s defensive game, with the lowest game score being eight. Being the third game in, this brought hope to the Traralgon side, but it was short-lived, as they only held asingle match.

The final games rivalled the first singles, with Streenbergenagainst Wu in afour-setmatch, with the lowest score being seven and Phan and Donohue taking the game to five.

Overall, the event was afriendly competition, allowingall three associations to socialise and experience different playstylesand avenue change.

Top awards handed out in Mid Gippy

FOOTBALL/NETBALL

MID GIPPSLAND BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

AHEAD of grand final day, Mid Gippsland FootballNetball League awards were handed out for the best performers across the season last week. League best-and-fairest, goal kicking/shooting, and Seniorsand AGradeteam of the year honours were revealed.

Foster Football Netball Clubled thecharge with six award winners, including anear clean sweep of the top seniors silverware for football and netball.

Angus Norton took out the Elder-Berwick Medal as the best seniorfootballerofthe 2025 season, whileteammateJakes Best took out the league goal kicking for the second year running with 77 goals for the Tigers.

FellowFoster teammatesMadeline Stewart and Kelsey Angwin claimed the AGrade league bestand-fairest, and Ebony Best won the goal shooting award in the BGrade competition with 722 goals.

Hill End young gun Darcy Paul took out the Norm

Jacobs Medal as the best under-18s player of the competition.

Paul hada busy season, doublingupall year long in both thirds and then seniors for the Rovers, standing tall in both grades.

Kicking 61 goals total (43 in thirds), his best day out came in Round 13 when he kicked five goals for abest-on-ground performance against Stony Creek in theseniors first win of the season and also booted seven goals in the earlier game over Mirboo North.

Paul follows in the footsteps of his older brother Bayley, who took out the previous U16s league best-and-fairest medal back-to-back in 2017 and 2018.They now play alongside each other during the main game for the Rovers.

Boolarra continuetoshowcase their strong junior focus,withEsther Konyi claiming the 17 and Under league best-and-fairest, while teammate Lara Noblett won the leaguegoal shooting with 481 goals.

Noblett also played afull season in the AGrade sidefor the Demons, scoring an additional 388

Braves honour club stalwarts

BASEBALL

TONY and Carol Dickinson were recognised with Churchill Baseball Club’s highesthonours for over 50 years of service.

The Churchill Baseball Club’s annual presentation night was one to remember, with two of its most loyal membersrecognised for alifetime of service to the game and their community.

Tony Dickinson was elevated to club legend status, just the second in theclub’s51-year history, while his wife Carol Dickinson was awarded lifemembership, joining only 14 others on that exclusive roll.

“The loyalty Tony and Carol have shown to one club over more than five decades is almostunheard of today,” club president Gregg Duncan said.

Tony’s service stretches across every cornerof the Braves and beyond.

Sincethe mid-1970s, he has been president, treasurer, secretary,vice-president, coach, scorer, fundraiser, and canteen volunteer, while also being awarded life membership in 1982, and yet never stopped giving back.

At league level, Tony’s impact has been just as

significant. Alife member of the Latrobe Valley Baseball Association, he has played acentral role in shaping baseball across the region for more than 50 years.

Carol’s recognition came as asurprise on the night, but few in the room were shocked by the decision.

Since moving to Churchill in 1974, Carol has been the club’s heartbeat -hand-sewing the first uniformsfrom pyjama patterns, running the canteen from the boot of acar, scoring, fundraising, and always stepping in when help was needed.

Even today, Carol remains a constant presence, helping in the canteen, encouraging players, and being the welcoming face for new families.

In an age where time is scarce and loyalties often shift, the Dickinson's commitment to one club stands out.

Community sport depends on volunteers, and for over five decades, Tony and Carol have shown what true dedication looks like.

“Between them, they’ve done almost everything abaseball club could ask for,” Duncan said.

“Their fingerprints areonevery part of our history, and their loyalty has been unshakable.”

goals in the top competition.

Boolarra’s Vicki Halliday also tookout the league goal shooting in CGrade with 467goals.

For DGrade,Yinnar’s Abby Walsh was recognised as the best player all season long, while Mirboo North’s Georgie Schaeche won the 13 and Under medal.

Newborough’s EllaHortonclaimed the 13 and Under league goal shooting with 298 goals.

All in all, 12 of the 13 Mid Gippsland clubs were recognised during the presentations, inclusive of the team of the years.

MorwellEastwas theonlyclubnot represented.

MID GIPPSLAND FOOTBALLTEAM OF THE YEAR

B: Jesse Patullo (Thorpdale), James Morris (Foster), Wade Anderson (Newborough)

HB: Jack Hayes(Fish Creek), Thomas Robertson (Yinnar), CBrendan Chapman (Yinnar)

C: Cameron Stone (StonyCreek), NixonHall (Yinnar), Samual Wilson (MDU)

HF: DarcyBerryman (Fish Creek), NickNagel (MDU), Shannon Pickering (Thorpdale)

F: Jack Weston (Toora), VC JakeBest (Foster), Shaye Walsh (MDU)

R: Lachlan Gale (Fish Creek), Angus Norton (Foster), Shaye Walsh (MDU)

INT: Travis Patten (Thorpdale), Leigh Craig (Toora), Jesse Chila (Mirboo North), James Lamers(Fish Creek)

Coach: SamDavies(Foster)

MID GIPPSLAND NETBALL TEAM OF THE YEAR

A: Brylee Angwin (Foster), Jess Edgar (Fish Creek), Imogen Law(Tarwin)

M: KirraJones (MDU), KelseyAngwin (Foster), Jaime Chila (Yinnar), Emma Allman (Fish Creek)

D: Madeline Stewart(Foster), Ema Hodgson (Fish Creek), JeeLePage (Yinnar)

Coach: EbonyBest (Foster)

Round’sBrownlowfinds new home

on as Leongatha claimed their fifth premiership in

FOOTBALL’S most prestigious award has anew owner.

The 1981 Brownlow Medal, won by Warragul’s Barry Round,was auctioned off recentlybythe late SouthMelbourne and Footscray player’s family. Round’s Brownlow sold for $95,000, accordingto CODE Sports’Paul Amy, while other items such as his 1987 J.J. Liston Trophy (best-and-fairestofthe VFA, former incarnation of VFL competition) and 1990 Norm Goss Medal (grand final best-on-ground) were purchased from his time at Williamstown.

Other trophies and medallions, documents, match-wornjumpers and boots were also up for sale.

That season’s highest honour was notably the first time ‘Charlie’ was awarded to dual winners, withRound’s former teammate,Traralgon’sBernie Quinlan tying.

Both began their careers at Footscray in 1969 however,bythe time they were acknowledged, Round was rucking at SouthMelbourne and Quinlan was hitting his peak at Fitzroy. Each were also the last recipients from either of those clubs before moving to Sydney and Brisbane respectively.

WhenRound’s familyoriginallyannouncedtheir intentionstoauctionoff this illusive memorabilia, his daughterNatalie divulgedthat they werein conversation with Quinlan to sell of each of their medals together, which did not eventuated.

AS for the most recentBrownlow night, Gippsland was again well represented.

The highest of the bunch came from Fremantle midfielder and Inverloch’s Caleb Serong, who finished eighth in the count with 25 votes.

years.

Serongwas also spotted two days prior at the Gippsland League GrandFinalatMorwell Recreation Reserve,watching

the last nine

Next best came from Poowong’s Jai Newcombe, who garnered 17 votes for Hawthorn,and then Warragul’s Harry McKay, with the Carlton key forward notching 10 votes.

Gold Coast Suns player Matt Rowell took home

the 2025 Brownlow Medal with 39 votes, seven clear of Collingwood’s Nick Daicos. Suns teammate and Fish Creek’s Sam Flanders was also anominee for goal of the year for his soccer finish against the Dockers in Round 12.

Bravehonour: Caroland Tony Dickinson were honouredduring the Churchill Baseball Club’s presentation night. Photo supplied

In newhands: ThefamilyofWarragul’s Barry Round has auctioned offhis 1981 Brownlow Medal.Hetook out thehonour tying withhis former Footscray teammate,Traralgon’s Bernie Quinlan. Photosupplied

Locals diving intotop competition

SWIMMING

SIXTEEN Gippsland swimmers, including seven from the Traralgon Swimming Club, will line up againstAustralia’s bestoverthreedays when they compete at the 2025 Australian Open Short Course Championships at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC), beginning today.

The team includes five multi-classswimmers and eleven able-bodied swimmers, each having posted qualifying times to reachthe event.

For many, it's the chance to dive in against their idols is athrill in itself, while others have their eyes firmly set on making finals.

Several of Gippsland’s multi-class swimmers have already broken Victorian records this year, and with personal bests likely to fall, more records could be rewritten next weekend.

For 13-year-old Emily Croatto of South Gippsland Bass, it marks ahugestepup. At the start of the year, she wasn’t old enough to compete at the National Age Championships. Now she will line

up in the 200-metre breaststroke alongside her sister Claudia.

“I’m so excited to race against Australian Dolphins and it’s going to be so much fun,” Emily said.

The big sister added how excited she is to be on such astage.

“I’m thrilledtohavethe opportunity to race at such ahigh level, and abig thanks to my coaches who have helped me get there.”

For some of the more senior competitors,yearsof hard work is paying off, with swimmers like Ashley

Ready: Traralgon’s Lockie Bellion, among other local swimmers, take partinthe Australian Open ShortCourse Championships,beginningtoday. Photographs supplied

Nicholes from Traralgon ranked in the top 10 and hoping to make finals.

Gippsland swimmers will be up against some of the nation’s best, including Felix Dressel-De Bruyn, Tara Kinder and Paralympian Ahmed Kelly. Many teammates and supporters are expected to make the triptoMelbourne, while others can tune in to the live broadcast on 9Now. Traralgon representatives

Olivia Ballie, Zayden Burton, Jessica Whiting, Ashley Nicholes, DarcyConnell, Brody Cargill, and Lockie Bellion

South Gippsland Bass

Miah Roberts, Claudia Croatto, Emily Croatto, Sophie McKenzie, Levi Jarrett, and Gemma Cook Warragul

Isabelle Nash, Ayvah Dennis, and Tyra Jensen

Records broken, medalsearned

SWIMMING

THE Traralgon Swimming Club has had asuccessfulSeptember, with 25 junior swimmers competing at the Tasmanian championships and afurther 26 at the Victorian age championships.

In Hobart, the club took ayoung team with 20 swimmers aged 11 years and under. The team came home with 14 gold,16silverand 15 bronzemedals.

Individual medal winners

Henry Arnup (11): six gold

Tahlia Maccubbin (11): five gold, one silver

Hayden Rawson (11): four silver, two bronze

Riley Bartlett (11): one silver, four bronze

Aliza Couling (13): two silver, one bronze

Milla Said (13): two silver, one bronze

Addison Prout (13): one silver

Angus Turnbull (11): one silver

Ruby Demetrios (11): one bronze

Florence White (11): one bronze

The club also dominated junior age relays, with three gold, four silver and four bronze medals.

Gold

Boys’ 8-11 years 4x50m medley: Baylin Said, Xander Szkwarek, Henry Arnup, Harry Payne

Girls’ 8-11 years 4x50m medley: Ruby Demetrios, Florence White,TahliaMaccubbin,Sarah Franklin

Girls’ 8–11 years 4x50m free: Tahlia Maccubbin, Florence White, Ruby Demetrios, Sarah Franklin Silver

Boys’ 8–11 years 4x50m medley: OliverBevis, Lachlan Hynd,Hayden Rawson, Angus Turnbull”

Boys’8-11years 4x50m free: Riley Bartlett, Eli Hutty, Ben Edgar, Angus Turnbull

Girls’ 16/u years 4x50m medley: Addison Prout, Aliza Couling, Milla Said, Audrey Baillie

Girls’ 16/u years 4x50m free: Tahlia Maccubbin, Chloe Rawson, Audrey Baillie, Milla SaidBronze

Boys’ 8–11 years 4x50m medley: Riley O’Mara, Ben Edgar, Riley Bartlett, Eli Hutty

Boys’ 8–11 years 4x50m free: Riley Bartlett, Eli Hutty, Ben Edgar, Angus Turnbull

Girls’ 14/u years 4x50m medley: Addison Prout, Aliza Couling, Milla Said, Audrey Baillie

Girls’ 14/u years 4x50m free: Chloe Rawson, Audrey Baillie, Milla Said, Addison Prout

Eleven-year-old Traralgon Swimmer Henry Arnup was also successfulinbreaking aTasmanian allcomersrecord in the 50 metresbackstroke with his time of 32.6secondsbreaking the old record of 32.9s.

Senior head coach Brian Ford, who accompanied the team, was pleased with the results.

“This is the first time we have taken such ayoung teamtothis meetand it was outstandingonmany levels,” he said.

“Firstly the swimming was fast with 87 per cent of results being personal best times; secondly, the swimmers themselves were terrific with the team staying together and havingtobeindependent; and finally, we identified future leaders and potential captainsthereforeensuring the clubcontinues with its strong and enduring culture.”

 TWO weeks after the Tasmanian championships, the club competed at the Victorian Short Course Age Championships again with outstanding results, winning seven

gold, 15 silver and seven bronze medals:

 Lockie Bellion (17, multi-class): four gold, four silver;

 Kody Said (15): one gold, two silver;

 Ash Nicholes (18): four silver, one bronze;

 Brody Cargill (16): two silver;

 Milla Said (13): one silver, two bronze;

 Jayden Tran (13): one silver, one bronze;

 Zayden Burton (16): one silver, one bronze;

 Issy Slocombe (15): two bronze;

 Mixed 12–18 years 4x50m para-able bodied free relay (Lockie Bellion, Issy Slocombe, Elijah Vercoe, Aliza Couling): one gold;

 Mixed 12–18 years 4x50m para-able bodied medley relay (Elijah Vercoe, Lockie Bellion, Issy Slocombe, Chloe Szkwarek): one gold; With again more than 86 per cent of personal best times swum, Traralgon club swimmers broke five Victorian, three country and 10 out of Gippsland records.

Ash Nicholes swam 22.33s to break his won 18 years and over country and 17 years and over out of Gippsland records for the 50m freestyle, and 54.77s to better his own 18 years and over country and17years and over and open out of Gippsland records for the 100m individual medley.

Kody Said swam 8:36.88 minutes to better his own open out of Gippsland 800m freestyle record, and 16:20.95min to surpass his open out of Gippsland 1500m freestyle record.

Brody Cargill better his own 15 and 16 years out of Gippslandrecordinthe 400IM,winning 4:39.68min.

Issy Slocombe set new Victorian multi-class records in the S17 50mfree(34.26s), S17200m

free(2.56.46min),and S19 100m free (1.16.72min). Lockie Bellionset Victorian MC records in theS14 200m IM (2.33.47min) and S14 200mfree (2.14.58). In the relays,acountry record was set in the mixed14years and over 4x50 free by Nicholes, Darcy Connell, Jess Whitingand PhoebeBalcombe with1:39.96min betteringthe mark set by a Traralgon team last year.

An out of Gippsland record was set by the boys ópen 4x50m medleyteam of ZaydenBurton, Nicholes, Connell and Sam Wells, with 1.45.19min, also surpassing the previous recorded set by a Traralgon team last year.

Nicholes,Connell, Burton and Wells set another outofGippsland record in the boys’ open 4x50m free with 1:36.01, again bettering the time set by aTraralgon team last year.

Olivia Baillie, Lara Landels, Jess Whiting and Phoebe Balcombe set anew out of Gippsland record by swimming 1:58.87min in the girls’ open 4x50m medley.

From ateam viewpoint, the club finishedineighth position, making it the 26th successive year it has finished in the Victorian top 10.

Headperformance coach Dean Gooch was fullof praise of the team.

“What afantastic three-day meet. Heats in the morning and afternoon and then backing up with finals in the evening made for longtough days However, our swimmers were primed for the conditions with the training and competitions in the lead up to the event,” Gooch said.

“The team reward of atop 10 finishinVictoria and individual results with so many PB’s and records speaks for itself.”

Strong contingent: Traralgon swimmers AshleyNicholes,Darcy Conneill and Jessica Whiting

Melbourne wrapsupWNBAseason

BASKETBALL

WNBA BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

DONE and dusted for year three.

Traralgon’s Jade Melbourne has completed her WNBA duties after Washington Mystics missed the playoffs.

Withanincrease in opportunity, Melbourne showed great improvement from start to finish. The Traralgon star mounted 12 starts throughout the course of the seasonafterpreviously never starting aWNBAmatch in each of her first two years in the system with the Mystics and Seattle Storm.

That includedastretch during August where she was the primary guardfor eight consecutive games, winningthreeofthose.

Over that span of time, Melbourne increased her output for averages of 7.4 points, three assists and tworeboundsper game.

In total, Melbourne postedaverages of 5.9points, 2.9 assists, 1.9 rebounds, and 0.6 steals per game in 23.5 minutes.

Ever reliable for coach SydneyJohnson, Melbourne missed just one game in season 2025.

From ateam perspective, in completion of their final regular season match,anine-point losstoNew York Liberty, the Mystics ultimately finished with awin-loss record of 16-28, which was seven wins back of aplayoff berth.

While Washington had brilliant patches, especially towards the middle of the season, they couldn’t capture enough momentumagainstthe top sides,and endedtheiryear on a10-gamelosing streak, finishing as the fourth worst team in the league.

She has one more year remaining on her rookie extension, whichshe signedduringher first season with Seattlebefore being traded to the Mystics,and will enter restricted free agency in 2027.

Melbourne will now return to her WNBL team, UniversityofCanberraCapitals,who open the 2025-26season on October 18 against Southside Flyers.

Basketball beginning to ramp up

BASKETBALL

CBL BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

GIPPSLAND basketball returns this weekend, where the Country Basketball League gets underwayregionally Both Men and Women divisions begin on Saturday or Sunday, with many opening withdoubleheaders. Warragul claimed the women's title, while Pakenhamtook home home the men's last season, will someone else rise to the top or will it be more of the same?

 AN inter-Latrobe Valley opener takes place on Saturday night, with Traralgon and Morwell doing battle at Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium (GRISS) at 7pm.

Each side features new leadership at the helm, with theT-Birds bringing in previous CBL men coach Michael Dyt, replacing Logan Van Berkel,

and the Magicappointing MarkTankardm taking over from Marco Tripodi.

Traralgon will be out for blood this year, having gone the entire regularseason with just one loss to their name last year, only to fall to Warragul in the Semi Final, thus missing out on afourth straight grand final appearance.

The T-Birds feature back-to-back home gamesto begin the year, facing Lakes Entrance on Sunday from 1pm, while Morwell face Southern Peninsula at Latrobe Leisure Morwell from 2pm.

Grand finalists from yesteryear, Warragul take on Moe at Warragul Leisure Centre, Saturday night to begin each of their campaigns.

After taking out the CBL championship in 2023, the Meteors took amajor step back in their title defence, missingthe finals completely lastseason

New coach Paul Potter (taking over from Josh Whittaker) will be confident of returning Moe back to its regular stanchion, competing deep into the pointy end of the year.

The Meteors then make the trek to Bass Coast CommunityStadium to matchup with Wonthaggi on Sunday evening.

 THE women's league will be in full force this year, returning to acomplete 10-team competition.

Traralgon and Morwell also play off against each other on Saturday from 5pm at GRISS.

The T-Birds, who didn't feature awomen's side last season,are now led by MeganEenjes,while theMagic again see Daniel Scholtes at the helm.

Morwell then play Southern Peninsula at home on Sunday from 12pm.

Moe also travel to Warragul to take on the Warriors in the grand final rematch from 5pm, Saturday, followed by atrip to Wonthaggi.

TheWarriors won last year's championship over the Meteors by 10 points,and this matchup coming will likely be another close one, with Matt Demczuk again coaching Moe.

White starts in Turkey

BASKETBALL BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

TRARALGON'SJackWhite began his latest venture with Turkish basketballclub Mersin MSK just afew days ago.

After finishing up duties with Melbourne United after the conclusion of the previous NBL season, in which they lost in the grand finalseries to Illawarra Hawks,White joins Mersin MSK afterastint with German sideBayernMunich where he won the Basketball Bundesliga title. His resume now consists of championships in the NBA, NBL and European circuit.

On Sunday, the team with local flavour, sittinghalfway around the world,beganits Basketball Super League season, defeating Manisa, 87 to 68.

Whitebegan his time in Turkeyexcellently, posting 18 points, six rebounds, and four steals in the win.

The Basketball SuperLeague regular season lasts until May next year,before the playoffs begin.

TheTraralgonstaralso madeastopback in America for the NBA Summer League in July.

White played four matches in Las Vegas, Nevada for Atlanta Hawks, with averages of 5.8 points, 1.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game, playing alongside fellow Australian Jack McVeigh.

Finished: Traralgon’s Jade Melbourneand her Washington Mystics recentlywrapped up their 2025 WNBAcampaign.

Photograph supplied

Topnetball silverware visits Traralgon

NETBALL

THE Traralgon NetballAssociation had aspecial visitor on its Winter SeasonGrand Final day -the Melbourne Vixens’ Championship trophy.Fresh from their thrilling one-point win over the West CoastFever in this year’s Suncorp Super Netball Grand Final, the Vixens shared their victory with the local netball community.

Players, supporters and fans enjoyed the rare opportunity to see the coveted trophy up close, adding extra excitement to the day’s celebrations. Thetrophywillcontinue its tour of the Gippsland region in thecoming weeks, spreading Vixens pride across local associations.

Traralgon Netball Associationextended its thanks to Judi Buhagiar and Leanne Bland from NetballVictoriafor making the visit possible.

Stockdale enjoys win at Moe meet

HORSE RACING

By LIAM DURKIN

MOE Racing Club hosted anine-card meeting on Tuesday, September 23.

Thetrack was rated aSoft 7throughout, with therailout sixmetres the entire circuit.

The meeting coincided withthe bridging period between the end of football season and the start of cricket season.

Football still made an appearance however, withNorth Melbourne premiership coachturned horsetrainer, DenisPagan sending horses to Moe.

His four-year-old gelding LastCardLouie narrowly missedwinning the Race 1S&S Equipment Rental &Sales Maiden Plate over 2447 metres.

The race turned into athree-horse affair,with the topthree an astonishing eight lengthsclear of the field when they bunched to cross the line.

Last Card Louie was just anose behind the winner, Hand Of Doom, who snuckinonthe inside for Patrick Keane.

Traralgonjockey Thomas Stockdale enjoyed success in the Race 5Ladbrokes QuickMulti MaidenPlate across 1628 metres on board

Trinity’s D’oro. The five-year-old mare was off the pace initially, but came home from two lengths wide to give Pakenhamtrainer, Brian McGrath plenty to smile about.

Stockdalewas best of the rest in the Race 8 Cleaners World Gippsland BM56 Handicap (1017m), coming third on board Intriguing State for Kasey Wilson.

Despite the place, he was more than two lengths off the pacesetters in Mr Tickles and winner Per Ivy, who put the afterburners on in thelastfew hundred metres, coming from third-last to win for Colin Scott.

Stockdale rode againsthis brother-in-law, Beau Mertensinthe Race 3K.I.S Comms & Cameras Maiden Plate (1217m).

Mertens took some braggingrights, coming second on board Tisseyre, well clear of Stockdale, who rode seventh.

The win however went to Kagemusha,who put in adominant display for Anthony and SamFreedman, leadingatboththe 800and 400 metre marks.

Traralgon Cup winning trainer Liam Howley had to make do with fourth in the Race 2 Solomons Flooring Maiden Plate (1017m).

His three-year-old filly Bidu was nearly three lengths off the podium, which saw Kiwi Raider

take top spot for Mark Walker.

Moe Cup winning trainer, John Leek Junior perhaps fired an early warning shot, after fouryear-old stallion BlueBandit blitzed the fieldto winthe Race 4Chefs Hat Maiden Plate (1217) by three-and-a-half lengths.

Race6saw five-year-oldgelding Teddy Boy edgeahead by half-a-length to winthe Halls PlumbingBM56 Handicap (1628m) for Flemington’s Claire Patterson, while the Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young stable continued their love affair with Moe, with the Race 7Moe Denture Clinic BM62 Handicap (2447m) going the way of Omamori.

Acompetitive field saw out the meetinginthe Race 9Book Now for Moe Cup BM56 Handicap (1217m).

Eight horses all took up the photo frame at the finish, although four-year-old mare, Lavender Glory beat them all, seeing city-based trainer Jason Warren leave town with his head up.

As the race name suggested, the Moe Cup is coming up on Sunday, November 16.

Beforethathowever,the clubishosting the Latrobe Regional Heath Cancer Fundraiser Day on Sunday, October 19.

Solid gold: Grey St Netball Club under 9s players in front of the Melbourne Vixens championship trophy.

Smiles: Vixens fans Charliand Gemma with Netball Victoria’sJudi Buhagiar holding theSuper Netball championship trophy.