Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 28 May 2025

LOUD AND CLEAR

By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT AND AIDAN KNIGHT

NO more. Enough is enough. Scrap the tax.

THESE were just afew of the sentiments that flowed through the local protest against the recently instated Emergency Services Levy Bill last Tuesday (May 20), which began outside the Morwell office of state government frontbencherHarriet Shing.

Close to 150 people of amix of farmers, volunteer firefighters,and supporting and effected citizens assembled to renounce the new changes, with police blocking the sectionofroad justbefore 10am for the peaceful yet explicit demonstration.

After discussions between organisers and localpolice, plans shifted andmany protestersmarched up Commercial Road to the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court, which was stillinthe thick of the Erin Patterson Trial, making their voice loud and clear.

See Pages 36 &37 of today’s paper

The doubled rates were confirmed days out from the Victorian State Bud get, expa nding the pre vio us Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) intoabroader fund whichextends to services such as the SES and Emergenc yR ecovery Victoria under the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy (ESVF).

To secure crossbench support, the state government agreed to amend the bill, dropping the levy for farmers from an initially proposed variable rate of 83 cents per $1000 of the value of the land to 71.8c per $1000. Beforehand, underthe FSPL, it was 28.7c per $1000.

The ESVFListoofficially replace the FSPL and begin on July 1.

Boisdale farmer Tom Howson made the trip down to the Latrobe Valley to show his support and distain for the recent changes, and howit’sdeeply effecting his cattle farm.

“People from the country are fed up with thestate government spending more money in the city when we’re not going to benefit, and (then) they come into the country and try and pillage us to get the money to tryand pay for theirmistakes,” he said.

“I’m semi-retired,still farming,

still got afew cattle or so, but it just increases.

“Tax, everything has gone up, cattle’s gone up abit,but in 1970 we were still getting $500 for acow, now you might get $1500, but the cost-wise from ’70 to now is ridiculous.”

Lieutenant of Heyfield FireBrigade, Phil Graham addressed the Morwell crowd from atop oneofthe many tankers positioned along Commercial Rd, giving voice to the many fed up and disheartened.

“Why do we have to fund it? Why arewethe ones scratching through the change in the console of our farm utes trying to find adollar to give to them? It’s just not fair,” he said.

“We need to send the message, it needs to go loud and clear.

“So, Jacinta Allan if you can hear me, if you’d listen -you’rehurting us.

“You’rereally hurting us. We don’t have any more for you anymor e Jacinta, so stop trying to take it off us.”

With everyone present standing together against the instatement, Lt. Graham also made an impassioned message about howhis fellow CFA

members and local police figures must put their arms around the rest of the community.

“We’ve all got our stories. It’sall going to hurt us in many, many different ways. Just stay strong, stay respectful,” he said.

“I see all of the CFA peoplehere alo ng wi th me, reme mber our communities.

“We are leaders in ourcommunities -beleaders -Iimploreyou all, everyone that wears yellow or ablue uniform, you are aleader in your community.

“You need to have the ability for other members of the community to lean on your shoulder, you need to lead through strength.

“It’s now more than ever, there’s no fires burning in the bush, but it’s now more than ever that we need to support our communities. Not just with ahose and with abranch and a bigred truck, but we need to be there side-by-side with the other members of our community to support them, becausethey’regoingtostruggleand suffer too.”

Continued -Page6

Recapping week four of the Pattersontrial

By STEFAN BRADLEY

ERIN Patterson's Supreme Court trial continued last week (Week 4) in Morwell. The trial is currently sitting for its fifth week.

Three people died following afatal beef wellington lunch, whichallegedly containeddeath cap mushrooms at the accused's Leongatha home in July 2023.

Don and Gail Patterson, and Heather Wilkinson all died from the fatal meal. Gail's husband, Ian Wilkinson fell ill, however survived the incident. The accusedhas pleaded not guiltytothreecounts of murder and one count of attempted murder.

Day14(Monday, May19)

CHRISTINE McKenzie was the first witness of the week -aformer pharmacist and aformer senior poisons information specialist at the Victorian Poisons Information Centre. She finished working in late 2022.

Ms McKenzie said her role involved answering calls from the public and professionals about poisonous substances, including fungi.

Shesaidthe death cap mushroom has caused more deaths in Australia than other fungi.

Under questioning by Jane Warren from the prosecution, the court heard that Ms McKenzie has an account on the iNaturalist website, which allows the public to post about flora and fauna.

The witnesssaidshe believes she has madeabout 70 posts on the website that were mostly about fungi, and two about death cap mushrooms.

The first post was made in 2022, and the second in April 2023 from the town of Loch.

Ms McKenzie was in Loch to visit her daughter, and removed deathcap mushrooms she found during awalkwithfamily members on April 18.

Later that day, she posted photos of the death caps to the iNaturalist website, and because her phone hadlocation serviceson, the locationof the mushrooms, where she took the photos, was availablefor website visitors to see.

Ms McKenzie, under questions from defence lawyer Sophie Stafford, told the court that death cap mushrooms could grow back from where she took them. Ms McKenzie said she did not return to the area where she found the mushrooms and left Loch that day.

The witnesstold Ms Stafford she was not a mycologist(ascientistwho studiesfungi), but had afascination with fungi.

Dr Matthew Sorell was the next witness.Heis the principalofa private company, Digital Forensic Sciences Australia, based in Adelaide. They provide research and consulting in matters relating to digital evidence.

For Erin’s case, Dr Sorell looked at Erin’s phone records, which showed she may have been present at two locations, Loch and Outtrim, after the death cap mushrooms were posted to the iNaturalist site. Amap of Gippsland mobile phone base stations, around Korumburra was shown to the court.

The Erin Patterson phone records he analysed, from over four years, he said were given to him by police.

The accused'sphoneconnected near Loch on April 28, 2023, 10 days after Ms McKenzie found the death caps, Dr Sorell said. The phone also was connected to astation near Outtrim on May 22, 2023, aday after Ms McKenzie posted on iNaturalist. Day15(Tuesday, May20)

PROSECUTOR Jane Warren continued questioning witness Dr Sorell. She pointed out the phone was pickedupnumeroustimes in 18 monthstothe same area, around Poowong, Korumburra, Loch, Koonwarra and Outtrim. Ms Warren pointed to July 31, 2023, two days before the deadly lunch, thatphone records show the accused phone connected to base stations in Leongatha, Koonwarra, Outtim and Leongatha. Colin MandySCfor the defence, askedDrSorrell

about whether amobile phone might connectto another basestation, depending on where the phone is located in ahouse, to which Dr Sorrell replied "yes". Amobile phone located near the front door might connect to adifferent base station than one that's on the other side of the house.

Mr Mandy said guessing the location of aphone between these variousbasestations would be “entirelyspeculation”,towhich Dr Sorrellsaid, “within reasonable geographical limits, yes.”

The court heard that the records could pinpoint the general area of the phone, rather than its exact location.

Mr Mandy also spoke about the prosecution alleging earlier in the trial that the accused used two phones, and two SIM cards around the time the fatal lunch happened. Mr Mandy said people change theirmobile phoneorSIM card for various reasons, including getting anewer model, swapping phones with family or using aspare phone.

Detective Senior Constable, Khuong Tran was the next witness. He was ahomicide investigator for the alleged murders.

Senior Constable Khuong Tran discussed CCTV footage,shown in court, of theaccused stopping at aBPservice stationinCaldermeade at 3.20pm on July 30, where she had anine second toilet break. The entire trip lasted about three minutes, and she was seen browsing in the station. She had driven ared 4WD. This was the day after the fatal lunch.

The CCTV shown to the court was an edited portion.

Day16(Wednesday,May 21)

SHEMEN Fox-Henry was the first witness of the day -he’s been adigital forensics expert with Victoria Police since October 2020, focusing on datarecovery.Incourt he showedaPowerPoint presentation to explain digital forensics, with one of the first slides saying ‘what is acomputer’.

Once acomputer is taken by police, the court heard, the hard drive is digitally copied. Software is used to extract and/or recover the data to make it readable by authorities. It’s then exported to another hard drive and passed onto investigators.

The courtheardthatthe accused’s electronic devices were seized by authorities on August 5, 2023, and on August 15, Mr Fox-Henry began extracting files and data from acomputer taken from Erin’s house. He searched for keywords on the datadrives: 'Death cap', 'death cap mushroom', 'death cap mushrooms', 'mushrooms' and 'poison'.

The jury was shown alleged internet activity from the computer, which includes visits to the iNaturalist website, including apagefeaturing a death cap mushroom in Melbourne in May 2022.

Day17(Thursday, May22)

THE first witness was registered nurse, Mairim Cespon, employed by Gippsland Southern Health, who was working at Leongatha Hospital on July 31, 2023.

Ms Cespon told the prosecution that she had seen Erin Patterson that day. Dr Chris Webster, who also worked at the hospital and was aprevious witness at the trial, had asked the accused to take her kids out of school to be examined for mushroom poisoning.

“Dr Webster mentioned that her kids needto be medically reviewed as they have ingested part of the meal and that, you know, toxins might be in themeal that they've ingested, so just to make sure that they're actually okay,” Ms Cespon said to prosecutor Jane Warren.

“At that point, Erin became emotional, she was crying.”

Ms Cespontoldthe court that Erinhad questioned if that was necessary, as her kids didn’t eat the mushrooms and didn’t have symptoms, and Erin said she didn’t want the kids to be stressed or panicked.

The accused’s bowel movement was collected to be analysed each time she went to the toilet. Erin

went to the toilet five times from 10am to 11.50am.

The jury was shown the accused’s ‘bowel chart’ fromJuly 31, 2023.The courtheard that Erin’s bowel movements looked the same.

Ms Cespon confirmed with the defence that Erin’s blood pressurethatday was130 over 100,with that second number being ahigh value for blood pressure.MsCespon also said that Erin Patterson assisted police to search her bin for leftovers.

The next witnesswas Troy Schonknecht, an environmentalhealth officerwith the Cityof Monash Council. He’s an authorised officer under the Food Act and Public Health and Wellbeing Act. The Department of Health, on August 1, 2023 contacted him for assistance.

Mr Schonknecht visitedanumberofgrocery stores in Oakleigh, Clayton and Mount Waverley, and atable of grocers was shown to the court. He visited14stores, but only 11 solddried mushrooms. The court has heard previously that Erin said she bought dried mushrooms used at the lunch from an Asian grocer.

The court heard that the premises visited have not changed theirsupplier since April2023and that all dried mushroom products were imported, and the importers were identified. The court was shown pictures of dried mushrooms that had been repackaged from one of the supermarkets. No death cap mushrooms were found.

Mr Schonknecht finished his presentation and questioning, andShamanFox-Henry returned to court as awitness.

The court heard that aSamsung phone taken by police from Erin’s home had its data extracted by police. Facebook Messenger chat threads were uncovered from Erin’s friends,includingsome who were witnesses earlier in the trial. Dated December 20, 2022, the participants in one chat shown to the court had Dani Barkley, Jenny Hay, BronwynRap, JoyKorsand Erin Erin Erin, with some “irrelevant names” removed. Erin Erin Erin is alleged to be Erin Patterson.

Some of the messages from Erin Erin Erin were complaints about Simon Patterson and his parents. After abreak, photos from Erin’s phone and a Samsung tablet were shown to the court, including one of black food dehydrator. The prosecutor, Jane Warrenpresentedwhat shesaid werephotographs of “mushroomsonthe dehydrator tray,photographs of the mushrooms on scales on the dehydrator tray”.Itwas clarified these were not deathcap mushrooms.

The court heard that Erin wasdoing her own internet research on cancer on herdevices.The court had previously heard that both the prosecution and defence agree that Erin has never been diagnosed with cancer.

The court heard one of Erin’s phones was factory reset four times in 2023 -once in February and three times within days in early August, days after the deadly lunch. The first three resets were done locally, but the last one was done remotely.

Day18(Friday, May23)

THE last day of the week focused on the lunch guests' time in intensive care.

ProfessorStephen Warrillow was anew witness and director of intensive care at Austin Health in

Melbourne,whichwas where Don Patterson,Gail Patterson, Heather Wilkinson and Ian Wilkinson weretreated after the lunch. IanWilkinsonwas the only one to survive. Professor Warrillow confirmed with Sarah Lenthall of the prosecution that he had direct involvement in their care and reviewed their medical records.

The court heardthatDon Patterson was diagnosed with acute liver failure at Dandenong Hospital before he was transferred, with the cause considered most likely to be amanita mushrooms. Professor Warrillow said Dandenong was the preferred destination for apatient like Don, and had treated amanita mushroom poisoning in the past. Don received intense treatment, the court heard, but his condition continued to deteriorateovera number of days.

The court heardfrom the professor that other tests did not find any other causes for the illness, including viruses.

He had aliver transplant, but all their attempts at treatment failed.

Don Patterson diedat11.30pm on August5,2023 with multiple organ failure.

Don’s wife, Gail Patterson received “very similar” treatment.

The court heard Gail was not given aliver transplant because it was the view that she was “too sick to undergo the necessary surgery”. Gail Patterson died at 5.55pm on August 4, 2023, also from multiple organ failure.

Heather Wilkinson was the third to arrive at the Austin Hospital. Hersymptoms and treatments were similar to Don and Gail. She received a number of therapies to target amanita poisoning. She was also too sick to receive aliver transplant. Asked by the prosecution if it was eventually acknowledgedthatHeather would not survive, Professor Warrillow said, “it was very apparent that this was not survivable, yes”.

Heather Wilkinson died at 2.05am on August 4, 2023.

Ian Wilkinson was fourth and last to arrive, on August 1atthe Austin Hospital,the same day as Heather. His symptoms and treatments were similar.

While Ian was criticallyill, by August 5his condition started to improve slowly. By August 14 he was no longer on aventilator, and was sent to Heidelberg RepatriationHospital for rehabilitation on September11, and eventually discharged home. Ms Lenthall asked the witness how responsive amanitamushroom poisoningistothe treatments they have available.

“The treatments are -well, clearly not 100 per cent effective. In fact, there's avery high mortality -there's ahigh mortality recognised even with whatwouldbeconsideredoptimal care,” Professor Warrillow said.

Withnoquestionsfromthe defence, Professor Warrillow’s testimony is complete.Digital forensic expert with Victoria Police, Shamen Fox-Henry was back in court, but only for ashort time for the prosecution to clarify some dates in relation to his previous evidence.

The jury was sent home, concluding Week 4.

Parks petition makes point clear

By PHILIP HOPKINS

THREE petitions signed by more than 66,000 Victorians opp os in gm ore national parks in Gippsland have been tabled in the state's Legislative Council.

The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, tabled the first petition of 40,208 signatures.

The Liberal Member for Northern Victoria, Wendy Lovell,said13,969 Victorians had also signed a petition that was tabled by Wayne Farnham, the Member for Narracan.

"I have apetition that is still live that has 11,767 signatures on it at the moment. So that is over 66,000 Victorians –66,044 Victorians –who have signed petitions saying they do not want new national parks in Victoria," she said.

Ms Bath, who is the Shadow Minister for Public Land Management,saidthe historicpetition sent a clear message to the Allan government: Victorians deservepublic access to public land.

"Labor mustpreservethe status quo, preserve the current landtenure and not create anynew national parks. What we want to see, what these 40,000 Victorians want to see, is our cherished national parks and our loved stateforests and reservesopen for public access," she said.

"Responsible for public land management, the Allan government is apoor neighbour, and we know that from our bushfires and an inept public land manager. Visit any of our national parks, visit any of our state forests, and you willsee overgrown tracks and you willsee decaying infrastructure –ifitis still there. Acash-strapped government is cutting frontline boots on the ground and neglecting forests,

which leads to poorer environmental outcomes."

Ms Bath said this was aperverse outcome.

"There are insufficient field staff, there are insufficient rangers and there are aproliferation of pests and weeds –and there is an ever-increasing threat of out-of-control bushfire," she said.

"Coupled with the loss of our experienced timber workers and the bungled and botched transition, our regional communities are more and more at risk."

Ms Bath said Parks Victoria had had $95 million gutted from its budget and ahalving of its core services.

"Locking up more of our state forests as national parks serves no-one, and restrictingVictoriansfrom our traditional pursuits, such as freeand dispersed camping, dirt and trail bike riding, horseriding, hunting, four-wheel driving, prospectingand fossicking, does not guarantee any better conservation of vulnerable species," she said.

The country had evolved by First Nations people managing the land in the landscape.

The Labor Memberfor Eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh, criticised the "mistruths" of the Liberals and the National Party campaign.

"There are two separate issues at hand, and the two have been conflated. There is the west of the state and there is Gippsland. The Nationals know the government has no intentiontocreatenational parks in Gippsland, but they have no interest in the truth," he said.

"The Great Outdoors Taskforce is talking about how we grow regional Victoria, getbetter visitor experiences and more tourism and economic activity. In the west,inall threenew nationalparks you will be able to go camping, fishing, hiking, four-wheel driving, trail bike riding and mountain

bike riding. In all three national parks you will be able to go horse-riding, dog walking and undertake dispersedcamping in specific areas outlined by the landmanager. And in thenew Wombat–Lerderderg National Parkyou will be able to undertake seasonal deerhunting in the areasthat werepreviously state forest," he said.

"We have found the right balance here to protect what needs to be protected, while keeping the land openand accessible for the activities that Victorians love. It is far from being locked up."

Mr McIntosh said the disinformation campaign by the Liberal and National parties was cheap.

"The future use of public land should be debated and discussed by the community, but it should only be done with all the facts at hand," he said so that all could work together to get good environmental and economic outcomes.

The Greens Member for Southern Metropolitan, Katherine Copsey, said Victorians love native forests, so it was no surprisethat Victorians overwhelmingly want more national parks.

"PollingbyRedBridge last October found awhopping 80 per cent of Victorians want more national parks. That is four in five Victorians who want more of these kinds of protection –anincredible level of popularity," she said.

The member for Eastern Victoria, Jeff Bourman from theShooters Fishers Farmers Party, said the public response to the issue clearly indicated how Victorians outsidethe 'quinoa curtain' feel about public land access.

"Victoria is the envy of the nation when it comes to access for hunters. Few places in the world enjoy the access that we do and want to keep," he said.

"Hunting contributes $335 million to the Victorian

economy and underpins over 3000 jobs. Victorian deer hunters take an estimated 140,000 deer ayear, most of them on public land, and hunters tend to eat what we hunt too.

"This petition is really aboutthe Greens proposal to lock up the Victorian Central Highlands into a massive new national park. Greens-alignedgroups have been pushing for this since before Icame into thisplace 11 years ago. Thedriving motivation used to be the end of native timber harvesting that industry has effectively been killed off.

"As Iwarned the government at the time, giving these extremists what they want was never going to appease them; it was only ever going to embolden them. So having got what they wanted, why are they still trying to lockupthis public land? Who arethey trying to protect this land from? The only answer Ican see is that they are trying to protect it from us, from people who they do not agree with and who they –frankly –look down their noses at."

Ms Bath said she appreciated Ms Copsey's love of the forests and national parks.

"Whatshe failed to admit or understandinterms of the Central West investigation is that over 65 per cent of the public submissions to the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council were actually opposedtothe locking up of those state forests into national parks," she said.

"The government is not correcting its own homework because it has failed to produce the State of the Forests report, which actually looks at what it is doing in conservation.Thereisnoreportcard on this, so the government therefore cannot be failing, but clearly it is."

VicGrid draft plan raises questions forfarmers

By PHILIP HOPKINS

FARMERS in Gippslandface new negotiationswith VicGrid and offshorewind developers under the state government's draft Victorian Transmission Fund, with Victoria's peak farming body saying there are alot of unanswered issues.

The draft includesaGippsland offshore wind transmission Stage 2project, which features a new 500 kV transmission linefromthe existing transmission network near Driffield to Woodside, and anew 500 kV line from Woodside to Giffard. New terminal stations will be needed at Driffield and Woodside.

There is also aproposed Gippsland Shoreline Renewable Energy Zone between the Gippsland coast and South Gippsland Highway,from Seaspray to Reeves Beach, where offshore wind developers will need to locateunderground cables that connect to aconnection hub near Giffard. This zone is not designed to host onshore wind or solar projects. ARenewable Energy Zone between Morwell and Sale,and anew new10-kilometretransmission line between Yallourn and Hazelwood are part of the package.

The chairand president of the Victorian Farmers Federation, Brett Hosking, told the Express that the newVicGriddraft plan raised alot of questions.There was still not evenanagreement on negotiations for the current Stage 1project, which involves aconnection hub near Giffard and a500 kilovolt (kV) transmission line that will connect the first 2gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind energy to the grid in the Latrobe Valley. VicGrid has said it will refine the study area to acorridor and then a route for the new transmission.

Mr Hosking saidunder the draft, landholders who were told their land was not suitable had found themselves right in the middle of anew Renewable Energy Zone(REZ). Withmore negativeattitudes

than positive towards offshore wind farm projects, it was uncertain how many of these projects would get off the ground.

"If that happens, what impact will that have on potentially more onshorewindfarms?"hequeried.

Community engagement had been poor.

"I'm not hearing too many positive stories. The proposals are dividingcommunities and having an impactonhealth andwellbeing. Proponents do not know how to do the best job," he said.

"VicGrid can put out their plan, but can proponents lift their game?"

Mr Hosking said many energy projectsinthe REZswere along way from where the energy would be consumed.

Ac omm uni ty gro up, Bet ter Tra nsm issi on Gippsland (BTG), said the state government was heading toward failureinenergy by refusing to invest in safe,modern infrastructure to carry power from Gippsland’ soffshore wind farms to the Latrobe Valley.

“They’ve released the plan, but they’restill missing the point,” said BTG chair Kirra Bott.

“The goal of this transition isn’t just more energy. It’s more secure energy."

Ms Bott said the two new overhead powerlines werethe same outdated infrastructure thatcollapsed near Anakie in 2024, cutting power across the regionand costing an estimated $770 million in damage. AusNet’s own data showedthese failures are becomingmore frequent, now occurring less than six years apart on average.

“VicGridclaims undergrounding wouldcost $3 billion more up frontbut when spreadacross all Victorian households over 40 years, that’ sjust seven to eight cents more per day per household, or $2.31 amonth -a small pricefor apower supply that won’t collapse under pressure," she said.

“You can’t build the state’s future power supply

on towers that keep falling down.The refusal to consider undergrounding isn’t just atechnical failure, it’s apolitical one.

“This governmentsaysit’sleading the energy transition, but when it matters, it picks the cheapest path and leaves communities, businesses and the grid exposed.” The draft plan aims for 320-240

megawatts (MW) of new onshore wind energy in the Morwell-Sale REZ.The draft Transmission Plan identified the need for new transmission lines in Gippsland to support both the draft proposed Gippsland REZ andabout 7000MWofoffshore wind by 2040. The location where each transmission line will be built has not yet been identified.

Farmers take fight to the streets

From Page 1

IN the wake of the ESVFL announcement, many fire stations across the state have gone offline, flown CFA flagsupside down, and some evengoing as far as to post videos online setting fire to their uniforms in protest.

Fellow Heyfield volunteer firefighter, Meryl Graham also articulated the overallaffectthe levy will have.

With the ESVFL, residential charges have also increased from 8.7c per $1000 of aresidential property’s capital improved value to 17.3c per $1000.

“WhatIdisagree with is thebleeding the life out of Victoria, because it’s not just farmers,” Ms Graham said.

“Everyone’s paying it. It’s going to drive the cost of living up, that’s goingtoput pressureoninterest rates to go up because inflation will go up.

“It’s every single Victorian that’s going to bleed over this and it’s not right.”

While Ms Graham doesn’t believe their stand will see the state government shift its position, she said everyone who is tired of this “bleeding” needs to make astand.

“You have to try, we can’t be apathetic forever,

we can’tsit on the lounge and complain about it forever,” she continued.

“Sooner or later, you’ve got to pick your hill and stand on it.

“Sometimes you’ve got to pick afightand say ‘this is my fight, Ican’t let everybody else do it.’ I just want to say no more.”

LatrobeCityMoe Ward Councillor, Adele Pugsley also addressed the crowd, making astrongdeclaration about council's stance.

“Council have already done amotionthat we don’t want to collect the tax. We will continue to advocate to do whatever we can,” she said.

“It’s not fair that we are expected to fork out more money out of our pockets.

“There aresomanyfarmers who are already struggling to make ends meet. This would be the difference between aviable business or not.

“There are so many people already experiencing cost-of-living pressures, this would be the difference between being able to eat or not.”

Council’s position towards these changes began at the February 2025 council meeting, formally writing to Premier Jacinta Allan and the Minister forLocalGovernment, Nick Staikos calling for the requirement of Victorian councils to collectthe

new fund to be removed and for it to be managed directly by the State Revenue Office.

“The recent announcement by the Victorian government to replace the (FSPL) with the (ESVFL), has sparked significant unrest across regional and rural areas includinghereinLatrobeCity,”

LatrobeCityCouncil Mayor, Cr Dale Harriman told the Express

“We support our local farmers and business owners and share their dismay at the change and the pressure it will place on our community.

“We strongly believe it is not the role of local councils to act as tax collectors for state-imposed levies, particularly when the burden falls disproportionately on our communities.

“The StateRevenue Office should be responsible foradministering this levy, at the state’s expense.”

Thousands of demonstrators also congregated on Spring Street in Melbourne’s CBD to voice their disapproval of the levy directly and loudly to the Victorian Premier.

Former Premier and farmer, Denis Napthine, stateoppositionleader Brad Battin, and leader of the state Nationals and Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien also showed their support among thecrowd in thecity’s standstillonTuesday,

May 20 (the sameday the state budgetwas handed down).

Mr Battin, when addressing the crowd, promised to scrap the ESVFL if his party won next year's state election.

Premier Allan told Parliament lastweek that the ESVFL wasintegralinproviding sufficient resources to emergency services.

“You cannot ignore that moreand more is being asked of our emergency services, our state emergency services,” she said.

“You cannot commit to ripping away… hundreds of millions of dollars from our emergency services without finding it from somewhere else.”

The state government has guaranteedthat through legislation that 95 percentofVICSES and CFA funding would come from the new ESVF and 90 per cent of Fire Rescue Victoria’s (FRV) annual funding would also come through the levy. CFA brigades in Erica and Moe South were announced as the first recipients of new Medium Tankers funded through the ESVFL. CFA were reached for commentbut did not respond before the Express’ deadline.

All-in-all, the message was simple: no farmers, no food.

Listen: Protestorshad aclearmessage forthe state government

Voice: Heyfield Fire Brigade Lieutenant, Phil Grahamdelivered an impassioned speech.

Stand: Heyfield volunteer changes will effect agricultur place outside the office of LaborMember forEasternVictoriaRegion, Harriet Shing,in

Photographs: BlakeMetcalf-Holt

Stoic: Demonstrators march down Commercial Road,Morwell.

Deadly overpass incident

Answers sought: Detective Sergeant Mark Amos from the Major Collision Investigation Unit is appealing for anyone with information regarding last Thursday’s crash on the Princess Highway between Morwell and Traralgon

By KATRINABRANDON

MAJOR Collision InvestigationUnit detectivesare appealing for information after aman wasfound deceased on the side of the road in Morwell early last Thursday (May 22).

Between 1am to 9am, police believe a40-year-old Traralgon man was struck by avehicle near the Princess Freeway overpass headinginto Traralgon The driver then left the scene.

Police werenotified justbefore9am as apasserby located the man's body on the overpass.

Detectives are appealing to motorists who were travellingTraralgon-bound on the Princes Freeway during this time to check their dashcams.

Detective Sergeant, MarkAmos from the Major Collision Investigation Unit told the Express police are piecing together information.

“We don'tknow 100 percentwhatsort of car, possibly aheavy vehicle, truck, of some description, but we need to look at the debris we've found at the scene,” he said.

“We need to compare that to any of the vehicles may be of interest to us, and then be able to establish and link that vehicle back to the scene.

“A 40-year-old man from Traralgon has lost his life on the side of the freeway and has essentially been left there for eight hours. We've notified his

family, he's ason, he'sa partner, he's afather, and he's lost his life on the side of the freeway at this point.

“If there's anything that they (people) think might be of interest to us, let us know. Please tell us, becausewhatseems insignificant to one is critically important to us. In the big jigsaw puzzle, we're going to try to put it back together."

According to Detective Sergeant Amos, the 40-year-old man appeared to be wearing dark clothing.

Later in the day, a28-year-old Lakes Entrance man was arrested in Bairnsdale. He was interviewed by police and later released pending further enquires.

Detectivesfrom MCIU were on scene for most of the day while they processed the scene.

Anyone with any information, or dashcam footage, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via: www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Detour: Alleastbound lanes on the Princes FreewayEast, Morwell were closed to trafficbetween Tramway Road and Village Avenue last Thursdayfollowing an alleged major collision.

Photographs: Katrina Brandon

Driffield man fined $1976 Critical Fingerboards study

ADRIFFIELD man will pay the price for illegaldumping after the Environment Protection Authority fined him $1976. Theinvestigation began when the operator of anearbypine plantation foundthe abandoned waste at the intersection of Smiths Road and the Strzelecki Highway, south-west of Morwell.

EPA officers arrived to find enough mixed wastetofill atruck, includingconstruction and demolition waste, old tyres, milk crates, tarps, furniture, metal and general household waste, and it was the ordinary garbage that gave the game away. Among the rubbish were several clues that helped the investigators track down the culprit. Along with the fine, the man has been issued with aregulatory notice requiring him to clean up the mess. The EPA said the investigation would remain open until the waste has been taken for proper disposal. Under the Environment Protection Act and Infringements Act, the manhas the righttohave the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by acourt. Thepublic can report pollutionbycalling EPA’s24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at: epa.vic.gov.au/ report-pollution/reporting-pollution

GIPPSLAND Critical Minerals (GCM) has announced the appointment of AECOM to support the completion of technicaland environmental studies for the Fingerboards Critical Minerals Project.

AECOM has extensive experience in Australian critical minerals projects, including as lead environmentalconsultant to amineral sands project near Swan Hill, which recently received mining approval from the state government.

GCM chiefexecutive Michelle Wood said the appointment of AECOMwas another significant step forward in the company'swork to rescope and resubmit anew project for assessment by the government.

“Recently,weannounced 12 initial changes to the old Fingerboards project, which go along way to reducing the impact of the proposed mine on the naturalenvironment, dust, noise and road traffic, and creating abuffer zonefor the Lindenow horticulture area," she said.

“The initial changes are one part of rescoping and preparing anew projectfor submission to the government this year. There is more work to do -including monitoring, testing and conducting environmental and technicalstudies, along with ourcontinuing community engagement.

“AECOM has successfully helped navigate and support multiple mining projects throughthe various Victorian government approval processes. As aresult, we are seeing throughthese and other projects that it is possible for new mining projects in Victoria to coexist with other industries, including agriculture and tourism.

“These critical minerals projects will also contribute hundreds of millions in royalties to the state

budget, provide new jobs, skills,training pathways and opportunitiesfor local businesses and help diversify regional economies.

“Weare pleased to have AECOM’s expertise and experienceaspart of our team as we work methodically through each of the recommendations made in the last EES and prepare for anew approvals process.”

AECOM technical director Bryan Chadwick said AECOM was pleased to be supporting GCM progress the rescoping of the Fingerboards Project.

"We know the critical minerals industry and we know what the community expects," he said.

“We look forward to working to support GCM’s newapproachtothis important project that will support the energytransition to renewables and deliver significant opportunities to local communities and industries.

intercepted

erratic driver on Tuesday, May 14 after multiple reports of dangerous driving on the Princess Highway. The vehicle was located near Kosciuszko Street and stopped at around 4pm.

The 43-year-oldTraralgon man behindthe wheel was found to be actively consuming alcohol whiledriving, and as result was subject to apreliminarybreathtest,returning positive.

Further testing showed aBAC of 0.174, three times the legal limit. Theman’s license was suspended and vehicle impounded and will be summonsed to court at alater date.  ATHEFT allegedly occurred at a Morwell liquor store on Saturday, May 17 around 10pm, in which two unidentified females allegedly entered the store and walked out with 13 unpurchased bottles of spirits.

Investigators have released images of the women,who maybeabletoassist with enquires, which can be viewed on the Eyewatch Latrobe Facebook page. Anyone with information is urged to contact MorwellPolice Stationon 5131 5000,Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000, or submit aconfidential online report at: www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

 TRARALGON Police

an

Leader: Gippsland Critical Minerals Chief Executive, Michelle Wood (left) Photograph supplied

PoliceBeat with Aidan Knight

Surplus spruiked,yet debt incurs

By STEFAN BRADLEY

AN operating surplus, with amountain of debtit's achallenging story for the state government's 2025/26 State Budget.

While TreasurerJaclyn Symesfor her first budget was keen to emphasise the state’s first surplus in adecade, the size of Victoria’s debt incurred and the interest that has to be paid has proven to be a massive challenge for the state government.

At the 2025/26StateBudget lock-up in Melbourne -attended by the Latrobe Valley Express and other media organisations -MsSymes said therewas “no new taxes” revealed in the budget. And that’s because anew tax was previouslyannounced, which was of course the emergency services levy, which has been known about for months, and recently passed in state Parliament.

Protests against this new levytook placeatstate Parliament and abit closertohome in Morwell.The tax is possibly the most controversial measureina state budget for Gippslanders since the closure of the timber industry was moved forward. There’s also an increase to the congestion levy imposed on parking in parts of inner Melbourne to encourage public transport use. Nearly every major thing in this budget was previously announced.

The two previousstate budgets under Ms Symes’ predecessor, Tim Pallas attempted to rein in spending with cuts and taxes; this one appears to have partly moved away from that, which may be because an election is next year and the government is down in the polls.

“I want my first budget to give people hope,” Ms Symes said, which is asharp contrast from the doom and gloom of the last two budgets.

The slogan they choseis‘Focused On What Matters Most’, and it’s possible the state has taken cues from federal Labor’s successful election campaign that culminatedinalandslide victory on May 3. What the state government is focusing on

is similar issues of cost-of-living relief, healthcare and education.

“We want young Victorians to have everything they need to succeed. It's why this Budget invests more than $44 million to upgrade schools across

the EasternVictorianRegion, including more than $500,000 for upgradesatAraluen Primary SchoolinSale,” Member for Eastern VictoriaTom McIntosh said in amedia release.

Mr McIntoshwas keen to talk about public

transport, akey issuefor those in the Latrobe Valley.

“In Gippsland, this budget will invest $42.8 milliontodeliver aregular 40-minute interpeak service across the day, between Traralgon and Southern Cross–realising the benefitsofthe Gippsland Line Upgrade,” he said.

“But for parents in the region, every dollar counts. It’s why we’remaking publictransport free for Victorians under 18, delivering savings of up to $755 ayear –per child. ”

The scheme begins January 1, 2026.

“Costs can also add up for seniors. It’s why with this budget; we’re also making statewide public transport free for Victorians aged 60 and over on weekends,” Mr McIntosh said.

“From January 1, 2026,this change willhelp Victorians with aSeniors Cardineastern Victoria visit the grandkids or experience even more of our state –without theextra expense.”

The Community Pharmacy Pilot has become apermanentinvestment; $18 million has been budged for pharmacists to treat Victorians without needing to see aGP.

Leader of the state Nationals and Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien, said the budget ignored the cost-of-livingcrisis and inflicted further pain on regional Victorians.

“Labor is whacking us with agreat big new emergency services tax that thebudget now shows will cost us all an extra$3billionincoming years,” Mr O’Brien said.

“The Nationals and Liberals will scrap this tax if elected next year to ease the burden on regional Victorians.

“Debtgets worse and we willbepaying $28.9 million per day in interest –money that could be going to boosting regional hospitals, investing in schools and fixing our roads.

“This budget yetagain shows thatLaborcan’t manage money and regional Victoriansare paying the price.”

Coalition fix in sight followingNationals split

BY DAVID BRAITHWAITE

FEDERAL Memberfor Gippsland,Darren Chester saysthe break downofthe Liberal-National coalition does not change his commitment to "fight for the future of Gippslanders".

Unable to get agreement withthe LiberalParty in four key policy areas, the leadership of the Nationals last week announced they would not renew their coalition arrangement.

Theparties havesince reneged, and it appears a Coalition fix is in sight (at time of press, Monday, May 26).

If the two parties remainseparate, it will means both will be able to form their own policies, and, if they don't reform acoalition, run candidates at elections against sitting members from the other party. The Liberals wouldalsosit alone in forming the official opposition, with no Nationals in the shadow ministry.

"During the last term of parliament, the Nationals fought hard for apackage of sensible and important policies that will benefit regional Australia and the future of our nation. These were adopted as coalition policies and were strongly supported by localcommunities," federalNationals leader, David Littleproud said on Tuesday, May 20.

"Followingdiscussions with the leader of the Liberal Party, we do not have the assurancewe need that these policies will be honoured in afuture coalition agreement. The Nationals cannot in good conscience walk away from our commitments to

regionalAustralia."The Nationalscouldnot get guaranteed support from the Liberals for the the $20billion Regional AustraliaFuture Fund, ‘big stick’ divestiture competition laws to "keep the big supermarkets honest and deliver fairer prices for farmers at the farmgate and families at the checkout", improved universal service obligation for regional mobile and internetaccess, and the potential of nuclear power to be added Australia’s energy mix.

"The Nationals’ PartyRoom does not take this decision lightly. It is made without malice. When the Liberal Party is ready, our door will be open,"

Mr Littleproud said.

"We will always stand up for regional Australians and the policies thatwill take our nation forward."

The Nationals retained the 15 lower house seats they took into the recent election, butsaw aSenator not re-electedand Jacinta Nampijinpa Pricemove to the Liberal partyroom after the election.

Mr Chestersaidthe Liberals needed time to evaluate the loss of their15lower house seats, while allowing his party to undertake additional policy work.

Because they've had more MPs, the Liberals have been the senior partner of the coalition, and held most of the key positions, such as, when in government, Prime Minister, treasurer and foreign affairs.Nationals MPshave traditionally heldthe agriculture and transport portfolios.

In the most recent parliament, Mr Chester held the shadow ministries for regional education and

regional development, local government and education. Among the ministries Mr Chester hadwhenin government were veterans' affairs, transport and infrastructure and regional development.

If no longer ashadowminister,MrChester would stand to lose almost $60,000 from this annual salary.Don't worry, he's still be getting abaseMP salary of $233,643.

Mr Chester said he would would be doing everything he could to hold the Labor government to account in the interests of regional Australians.

"Sadly, our nation is more divided in geographic terms than ever before, with the Labor Party dominating the metropolitanareas and showing no regardfor the issuesinrural, regional and remote areaslikeGippsland.Iwill be doing everything I can to fightfor afair share of resources for regional roads, community infrastructure and critical services in health, aged care, childcare and disability services," he said.

"Whether it’s part of acoalition or as astandalone party, my commitment is to keep working for the benefit of Gippslanders and securing the infrastructure and critical services we need for the future.

"It’scriticalthat we focusonthe people who trusted us to represent them and bring forward apositive policy agenda to build asafer,stronger and fairer regional Australia."

Monash University School of Social Sciences head of politics, Dr Zareh Ghazarian said the dissolution of the coalition agreementwas goingtopotentially

liberate both parties. "To examine the decision we need to be looking at how the parties performed at theelection. The Nationals held ground generally, while the Liberals went backwards," he said.

"So theNationalsare probablyfeeling abit emboldened that they have got the constituency behind them," Dr Ghararian said.

"The Liberals, on the other hand, are really struggling,sothis will give them some time to recalibrate as they move towards the future.

“There is afundamental difference overpolicy at the moment, with the Liberal Party having conservative elements and socially progressive elements. How they reconcile the difference between the conservatives and progressives is part of the problem for them to face going forward."

There are cases at state level when the two partieshavenot beeninaformal coalition,such as currently in Western Australia.

In Victoria, the Nationals, under the leadership of then member for Gippsland South Peter Ryan, contested the 2002 and 2006 elections separately fromthe Liberals,which sawanincreaseoftwo lower house members.

The Victorian coalition agreement was renewed in 2008 before the parties ended Labor's 11-year run in government in 2010. The coalition arrangement has been maintained, despite losing each election since 2014.

Crunching the numbers: Statetreasurer Jaclyn Symes addresses reportersinMelbourne as the Victorian budget is handed down.

Photograph: Stefan Bradley

Deb Leonard thanks her supporters

By KATRINABRANDON

ELECTIONnight held tensionfor local candidates as votes were counted.

Independent candidate for Monash, Deb Leonard, held her election party at Westernport Hotel in San Remo, welcoming all who had assisted her on the campaign trail.

About 60 people at the party were ready to support Ms Leonard no matter the result.

“Congratulationstoall the candidates. It is a tough thing putting yourself up for the election," Ms Leonard told the Express on election night.

"You are really opening yourself up to public scrutiny that you wouldn't come across in any other part of your life. You stood up because being part of democracy is areally importantthing and a privilege.

“This is so overwhelming, and so many people keep asking me how Ifeel, and Ijust don't know. Idon't know what this emotion is. It's so much. I'm

overwhelmed with gratitude, anxiety, exhaustion and inspiration.

"None of this would be possible without the support of my support team."

People arrived early for the celebration, and as Ms Leonard stepped into the premises,supporters cheeredfor her efforts throughout the election cycle.

Over dinner, drinks, and even the 'Deb Leonard choir'stepped in to celebrate the campaign's completion.

“It's been an incredible vibe. Polling has been really busy. Pre-polling was incredibly busy," she said.

"A lot of people want to get in early. It’s been a really positive vibe. Many people say, ‘thank you for giving us achoice’ and ‘thank you for running’.

"All our volunteers were doing such an amazing job. Ithink just the positivity that these guys bring to the campaign is what has madeitsosuccessful.

"The feeling of the people that really lovedemocracy and want to vote on election day."

Before the results were called, Ms Leonard said that even if she didn’t win, it would already be a win for her by standing up for her community.

While Ms Leonard eventually fell to Liberal candidate Mary Aldred, the result was not made

official until after nearly two weeks of counting. Ms Leonard remained alivechance alongside Labor's Tully Fletcher, as the preference flows were painstakingly distributed in what ended up being athree horse race.

Unforgettable start to new job

By LIAM DURKIN

TALK about abaptism of fire.

Little more than aweek after her election victory was declared, Federal Memberfor Monash, Mary Aldred walkedinto adivided Liberal/Nationals party room.

The Nationals broke from their Liberal cousins last week, splitting the federal Coalition after being unable to reach aCoalition agreement on four key policies: the $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund, divestiture powers for supermarkets, universal mobile service and the big ticket nuclear policy, which became ahotly contested local topic at the election given Loy Yang was identified as apotential site.

The splitmay be over just as quickly as it started however, with talk the two parties will re-enter negotiations to merge once more.

That being said, Wonthaggilocal and Labor’s Tully Fletcher, who came second to Ms Aldred for the seat of Monash, believed the damage had already been done.

"Our new Liberal MP Mary Aldred spent the election telling votersshe would 'deliver for Monash' as part of a'strongCoalitionteam',” he said.

“It only tookacouple of weeksfor both claims to unravel, and now our communities will pay the price while Mary spends the next three years on the sidelines, fighting with the Nats over how fringe and out-of-touch the 'Coalition' can get.

“We missed out with Russell (Broadbent) for 20 years and we'll keep missing out with Mary.”

Deb Leo nard, who ran ah ighly pu bl ic campaign as an Independent for Monash, also weighed into the debate.

“I think this is actually agreat thing for the

Liberal party, and areal chance now for them to take agood hard look at their party and what they represent,” she said when news of the split came through.

“There is along way for them to try and rebuild the party to be able to take government againbutthis is agreat opportunity for them to start listening to the people of Australia, including women and young people.

“The independents movement has shown that this is the kind of representation the people want. Ihope the Liberals look hard into themselves and re-build in apositive way from here.”

The Liberals suffered alandslide defeat at the election, theconsequence of which saw Peter Dutton lose his seat and party leadership.

The Liberals elected Sussan Ley as his successor, becoming the first woman to lead the party.

Labor currently holds most aces in the House of Representatives with more than 90 seats, more thanthreetimes as many as the Liberals.

Political analysists had originally forecast it wouldtakethe Liberalstwo terms (six years)to recover. It could now take them twice as long.

The partyisfacing along road back, with the general consensus being the Liberals need to move back to the centre-right as quickly as possibletobeany chance of getting back in power.

As far as Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese is concerned, the 62-year-old may well have the job until he retires.

The Nationals and Liberals have gone their separate waysinthe past, themost famous being in the late 1980s when enigmatic Queensland Nationals Premier, Joh Bjelke-Petersen made arun for head office.

Our vote: Deb Leonard with her suppor ters on election night. Photograph: Katrina Brandon

ONE POINTERS

1. Which restaurant’smascot is aclown?

2. According to Fair WorksAustralia, how long do you have to work to get Long Ser vice Leave?

3. This sport is called the “American pastime”?

4. What geometric shape is generally used for stop signs? TWOPOINTERS

5. On adartboard, what number is directly opposite No. 1?

6. What type of objects are werewolf ’s most afraid of?

7. What is the name of the fastest land animal?

8. How many ‘varieties’ are there in Heinz? (slogan)

THREE POINTER

9. Before the 19th Centur y, the “Living Room” was originally called the...

10. What does the computer term GPU stand for?

11. The Histor yofMiddle-earth’ was written by which author?

12. What disease can be caused by alack of Vitamin C?

FOUR POINTER

13. If someone said “you are olid”, what would they mean?

14. What does afunambulist walk on?

FIVE POINTER

15. Name the five countries that make up the Nordic Council. One point for each correct answer

Stunning: Local photographer Colin Cook wasrunner-up in the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’sannualphoto competition forhis shotofLower Latrobe

Night sky pic is topshotincompetition

ASPECTACULARnight sky photo titled Where

Two Rivers Meet has been awarded first prize in West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’s (WGCMA) photo competition.

The celestialimagewas chosen for its unique perspectiveofWest Gippsland’s rivers. The image wastaken by Sale resident Iryna MacMillan and reflects the theme of rivers being much more than just water.

“I was chasing the Milky Way at Swing Bridge. In the image we can see the Milky Way, the planet Venus and apink Aurora on the left. It was abeautiful night and very inspiring,” Ms MacMillan, who moved to AustraliafromUkraine over20years ago, said.

With her flair for photography, it’sthe second time Ms MacMillan has entered the competition, coming runner-up in 2024.

“I’m an amateur nature photographer. Ilove

nature, but mostly Ilovethe night sky.I love taking night photos of our Milky Way galaxy and unpredictable Aurora too.

"I call thismy'nightsky therapy', because I’m alone with all these stars around me, but when Iget reflection of the stars in ariver it’s an extra bonus."

Colin Cook took out second prize for his vibrant imageof LowerLatrobe Wetlands,shotduring a memorable visit to Heart Morass with the Latrobe Valley Camera Club.

“The Heart Morass project is ashining example of how human interventioncan restorethe natural balance of ecosystems. Located in the Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia, this ambitious initiative has successfully transformed degraded farmland back into its original wetland state, benefiting both the environment and local communities,” Mr Cook said.

Spoilt for choice, the judges also nominated two

special mentions to Paula Welland for her photo titled Fishing and Kylie Jackson for her image

Durt’Yowan

“I remember my dad handing me his camera at Marlo witha24exposure filmand Iusedthe entire film on taking photos of the pelicans," Ms Wellandsaid.

"More than just water, the Latrobe River not only provides recreational value in the form of fishing and peaceful moments in nature but also serves as apowerful reminder of the vital connection between water, food and life. With fishing, relaxation and lessons learned, what more could you want from water?”

Ms Jackson’s image Durt’Yowan captures the rich, ancient beauty of rivers at their headwaters where they start their journeys.

“This photo symboliseslife, representing growth, renewal, and nourishment. It conveys peace and

tranquillity,” Ms Jackson said of her image. Judges were impressed with the number and quality of images submitted in this year’s competition.

Images will form part of the WGCMA’s annual Seasonal WateringProposaldocument to be submitted to the Victorian Environmental Water Holder. Once approved, the proposal is used to plan the year’s environmental water deliveries to promote and support healthy waterwaysand ecosystems along the Latrobe River, includingthe lower Latrobe wetlands such as Dowd Morass, Heart Morass and Sale Common; Macalister River, and Thomson River, including the Heyfield Wetlands.

The annual competition will be heldagain in early 2026.

Tranquil: ‘Fishing’byPaula Welland receiveda special mention.

Photographs supplied

Wetlands

News in

Friendlygreetings: LatrobeHealth Assembly provided free coffeeacross Latrobe Valley cafes lastweek during at wo-hour period forHello.Day.Pictured areKateMallia and Richard Massey at Claudia’sCafeinMorwell. Photograph: BlakeMetcalf-Holt

Moving: The Hodge brothers, Stephen, Michaeland Geoffrey alongside the memorial dedicated to their latefather,John at Gippsland Rotary Centenar yHouse.Pictured with them is VictoriaPolice ActingChief Commissioner, Robert Hill APM (second from left).

So proud: NewlyelectedMember forMonash,Mar yAldred, is embraced by her mum, Margaretonelectionnight.

Still going: Victoria’soldest man has ties to thearea. Reverend Bill Morganwas backin Trafalgar recently, revisiting hisold church. TheReverend turns 110later this year

Moment: Gippsland Rotary Centenary House Deputy Chairman, Dave Swainsbury and Victoria PoliceActing Chief Commissioner,Rober tHill APM unveil the dedication to late Detective Sergeant, John Hodge

Cheer: Ladder Chief Executive, Steph De Campo and Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley Development Coach, Ryan Hallet flankgraduatesNoah and Dylan at theLadderalumni commemoration.

Voice: Locals planted symbolic sunflowers at an anti-nuclear demonstration in Traralgon’s KayStreet Gardens lastmonth.

Finally: Demolition of the BawBaw Hotel, Moe underway. All photographs: Liam Durkin unless stated

FightMND beanies return to Coles

BIG Freeze Beanies are making areturn to Coles this month to help raise important money for FightMND.

UntilTuesday, June 17, shoppers can show their support for FightMND by purchasingalimited edition Big Freeze 11 Beanie for $25 at any Coles supermarket and selected Liquorland, First Choice Liquor Market and Vintage Cellars stores and on Coles online with allproceedsgoing to FightMND. Coles will also donate 10 cents to FightMND for everyColes fresh Aussie porkproduct soldin-store or online.

Money raised will help give hope and support to thousands of Australians living with MND, including FightMND co-founder and AFL legend Neale Daniher, who earlier this year was recognised for his inspiration and tireless work in the community with the Australian of the Year award.

The Daniher family has connections to the Latrobe Valley, with Neale's son Ben playing for Moe Football-Netball Club.

“This year marks another crucial step in our fight against motor neurone disease. At FightMND, we’re

deeply grateful for the unwavering supportofColes and their customers. Their dedication helps drive crucial research and fuels hope for those living with MND,” Neale said.

“Big Freeze 11 is about living it forward. Taking action nowfor afuture free from motor neurone disease. By pulling on your Big Freeze Beanie, you’re making areal difference.

“Live in the moment. Live it forward. Join me in the fight to beat the Beast that is MND.”

Coles, its customers and Aussie porkfarmers havewarmly embraced the Big Freezeover the past seven years, helping to raise more than $40 million for vital MND research and care initiatives

Kids-sized Big Freeze11Beanies,Big Freeze Socksand Big Freeze capswill also be available in selected Colessupermarkets, with 100 per cent of merchandise sales going to FightMND.

Afull list of participating products and stores is available at: www.coles.com.au/community.

Customers can also make adonation of their choice to FightMND at the checkout in any Coles supermarket until Tuesday, June 10.

Annual Christmas toy run is nowtakingdonations

Jeremy andBill from the

Can you help local Scouts?

LOCAL Scout groups are in need of more adult leaders.

While Scouting is thriving among youth, fromsix to 26-years-old,groupsare seeking passionateadults to provide leadership, support and guidance.

Mt Baw BawScouts is looking for leaders, assistant leaders and adult supporters across all areas. Towns needing support inc lude Moe, New boro ugh, Tr af al gar, Warragul and Drouin.

Full training, support anduniform is provided.All prospective leaders need is enthusiasm and awillingness to help.

Benefits include learningvaluable leadership and outdoor skills, and inspiring and mentoring the next generation.

Those who get involved also become apart of avibrant and supportive community, making unforgetta ble memor ies with amazing young people Parents, grandparents, and anyone over 18 with apassion for working with youth and people looking to gain leadership experience or give back to their community are invited to consider.

Scoutingisgrowing, and leadersare needed to help shape the future in all areas. Joinarewarding,fun-filled adventure with Scouts Victoria. Email the dis tr ict commi ssion er at: dc.mtbawbaw@scoutsvictoria.com.au for more information.

clubs,alongsideSanta,

andGrahamfromthe

THE 26th Gippsland Motorcyclists Toy Run has been launched.

Members of the Social Motorcycle Clubs,the Eastern Riders and the Red Knights, got together withGraham from the Salvation Army,Santaand Daveand Julzfrom Bobber Dave’s Custom Cycles, Traralgon, to launch toy run, signalling the start of what will hopefully be another great year. This year's toy runwillbeheld Saturday, December 6which is thefirst Saturday of the month.

Toy collection is set to commence in earnest.

The motorcyclist clubs had thought the last couple of years were difficult enough for local familiesand that all would be betterfor 2025 -not so. The Salvos and St Vinnies have informed the club there are manymorefamilies struggling to make endsmeet, and this will be reflected in the coming Christmas period.

The challenge for the motorcycle clubs is to provide acheerierChristmas, and is sure the Latrobe Valley community will, oncemore, rise to the occasion and make this year as successful as 2024, which saw amassive $101,500 worth of donations received.

No mother in the region had to say to her kids that Santa might not be coming last year.

Although Christmas is still many months away, it is never too early to start putting away agift or two, or if you are alocalbusiness, start canvassing your fellow workmates about ways to gather toys. If you would just like to make adonation of toys, call Alf and Stella on 0434 618 689 and they will arrange to collect them.

The club invites you to follow this year’s progress on the Facebook page: Gippsland Motorcyclists Toy Run.

Generous donation keeps art in Morwell

MORWELL Historical Society recently giftedsix signed watercolour reproduced prints from the Banksia collectionofthe renowned Australian botanical artist Celia Rosser OAM, to Latrobe Regional Gallery.

Originally donated to the Morwell Historical Society by amember, the society believed these magnificent reproduced prints should be housed where they would receivethe recognitionthey deserve.

Although the gallery usually only has originals in its collection, they had an opportunity to display these artworks in their large meeting room which is used everyday by Latrobe City Councilstaff and the community, making it afantastic viewing space.

LatrobeRegionalGallery hadthe reproduced prints professionally framed locally and have a description of each item alongside ashort biography of Celia Rosser.

If you are visiting the gallery, ask the friendly staff if Meeting Room 2isfree and you can possibly view these brilliant reproduced Banksia prints.

Born Celia Elizabeth Prince in 1930, Celia began painting Banksias after seeing aBanksia serrata near her home in Orbost.

In 1974, Celia was appointed UniversityBotanical Artist and began the project of painting every Banksia species, which took morethan25years to complete.

Celia has agallery located in Fish Creek which is well worth avisit. You may even meet the artist herself.

Latrobe Regional Gallery Operations Officer, Pauline Tranchant said the additions were noteworthy.

“Honoured to have received the Morwell Historical Society’sdonation as they believe the worksare important and relevant to our community,” she said.

United: TheColesTraralgon team supportingFightMND

Photograph supplied

Generous: Latrobe Regional Gallery Operations

Plans in place: Alf, Brian, Bernie,Rod, Shawn, Peter,

motorcycling

Robert

Salvos and Dave and Julz from Bobber Dave’s CustomCycles,are gearing up foranotherChristmas ToyRun. Photograph supplied

Fungi ramble

FRIENDS of TyersPark are conductinga fungi rambleatamystery location in TyersPark on Saturday, June7

Prepare to be amazed at the variety of shapes, sizes andcoloursoffungi that abound in the park. Fungiexpert Eileen Laidlaw will lead the ramble.

If you can join, meet at the Tyers Kindergarten carpark at 9.30am.

Bringwater,lunch, stout footwear and wet weather gear and acamera.

Spiritual centre

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

JoineverySunday for service from2pm.Doors open at 1.30pm.

Guest speakereveryweek with demonstrations from an invited medium, followed by acuppa and afternoon tea.

For enquiries, phone Amanda Webb on 0411 051 044.

Catalyst

PENTECOST Church is anew church that has juststarted meeting in theUniting Church, Traralgon(19 Park Lane) on aSundayfrom 4.30pm.

Pentecost Traralgon is acatalyst for people to live their lives to the full.

For more information, email: traralgon@ pentecostchurch.com.au

Chess results

ONE loss left Steve Ahern with the most wins of anyone at Latrobe Valley Chess Club.

Keegan Just applied acreative style to complete two impressive wins.

Ian Hamilton dropped two clashes but recovered to win all other matchups.

Neither Price Samasiea nor Peter Bakker managed to reproduce their high levels played during recent events.

Falling to the attacks in the early games left Cliff Thornton wondering what was to follow and the improvements happened thereafter.

Trevor Poulton had his knowledge on show and

Community Corner with Liam Durkin

claimed an important and crucial win.

Phone Cliff Thornton on 0413 330 458 or Ian Hamilton (0400 221 649) for more information on local chess.

Midyear ball

LATROBE Valley Dance Promotions Inc invite you to the midyear social ballroom dancetomorrow night(Thursday, May 29) at the Morwell Girl Guide Hall (18 Margaret Street).

Start time is 7pm and cost $5 per person. Those attending are asked to bring aplate of supper to share.

Thiswillbethe group's last session before the winter break.

Dance lessons resume Thursday,September 4.

For more information, phone Norm on 0428 543 737 or Lynda (0428 489 041), email: latrobevalleydancepromotioninc@gmail.com or follow Latrobe Valley Dance Promotions Inc on Facebook.

Cancer council

TRARALGON Cancer Volunteer Group ladies are having aBiggest Morning Tea on Friday, May 30 at the Traralgon Tennis Centre (Franklin St) from 10am to 12pm.

Cost is $15 per person, and all monies raised goes to cancer research.

Come along and enjoy adelicious homemade morning tea, raffles, luckydoor prizes and trading table.

Everyone is welcome to bring their friends along and no booking is necessary.

The group's next meeting will be June 2at

Traralgon Neighbourhood House from 1pm.

New members are welcome.

For more information, phone Raelene on 0407 368 848.

Cancer Council Supporters Hotline: 1300 65 63 85

Cancer Council Help Line: 13 11 20

Quit Line: 13 78 48

Brilliant bridge

TRARALGON Bridge Club results: Tuesday, May 20 -CFA Teams Part 1: 1st Moira Hecker/Helen McAdam and Kaye Douglas/Roshni Chand +47 imps; 2nd Jocelyn Pilmore/Kathleen Elkington and Christine Zarb/Fred Kaminski +20 imps.

Thursday,May 22 -N/S 1st GregNicholson and Kaye Douglas (58.67 per cent); 2nd Rob Graham and Glenis Lohr (55.33). E/W 1st Don Tylee and Roshni Chand (59); 2nd Peter Lonie and Monika Cornell (58.33).

The club's current group of beginners is coming along well. If youwould liketoplay or learn more about bridge, call Helen McAdam on 0438 164528.

You're never the wrong age for bridge.

Puppyyoga

HAVE fun stretching while cuddling some gorgeous French Bulldog puppies.

Puppy yoga will be held Saturday, June 28 at The Creative Wellness Studio, Trafalgar (16 Contingent St). Sessions will commence at 2pmand 3.30pm respectively.

For more information, phoneMaria on 0499 996 364.

Countrymusic

GOOD oldcountry musicfeaturing Ronn Munn, Tony Wirth and friends. Walk ups welcome.

First Sunday of every month, 11am to 4pm at Monomeath SeniorCitizens Hall,Victory Park, corner of Princes Highway and Whittakers Road, Traralgon.

For all enquiries, phone 0409 149 309. Fun day of country music.

Visitor's guide

LATROBECityhas officially unveiled its new Official VisitorGuide –a fresh snapshot

of the region’s hiddengemsand memorable experiences.

The guide was launched at aspecial event, bringing together tourism operators and local businesses in celebration of everything Latrobe has to offer.

Filled withlocal itineraries and insights, the guide is designed to inspire both first-time visitors and locals to explore more of what’s in their backyard.

The guide complements the Visit Latrobe City website (latrobecity.com.au) and Visit Latrobe City Facebook page currently available for visitors.

Latrobe City Mayor, DaleHarriman was pleased to launch the official guide.

“Visitorstoour towns are welcomed with open arms, and we love every opportunity to showcase our amazing lifestyle," he said.

"There's something for everyone–creative souls, night owls,nature loversand flavour seekers.

"The official visitorguide is one way we can demonstrate our wonderful region, and we encourage local businesses to help us spread the word.”

Visitors wanting acopy of the guide or local businesses needing copies to distribute can collect them from the Latrobe Visitor Information Centre in the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre (Traralgon) –open seven days from 10amto4pm.

Youcan be apartof Community Corner

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

You can address correspondence to the editor, Liam Durkin

Please write 'Community Corner' in the subject line and nothing else.

Deadline is Friday 9am to appear in the following Wednesday issue.

Honoured forservice to men’shealth

THE Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) community lost one of its finest champions last year,with the untimely passing of Bruce Ellen to prostate cancer.

To honour his legacy, PCFA has posthumously awardedthe late Mr Ellen with aprestigious Max Gardner Award, recognising hisDistinguished Serviceand significant contribution to men’s health across the state.

The annual PCFA award is named in honour of the late Max Gardner, who helped establish Australia’s Prostate Cancer Support Group network nearly 30 years ago. The network now comprises more than 120 groups across the country.

Mr Ellen was apillar in his community. As general manager of the Latrobe Valley Express and Gippsland Times, he firstgot involved with PCFA and the Latrobe Valley Prostate Cancer SupportGroup after aclose friend and colleague was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He was also diagnosed with prostate cancer many years later.

Together with the late Chris McPherson, he helped establish Biggest Ever Blokes’ Lunches in regional Victoria, including in Latrobe and Sale,raising significant money for world-leading research, PCFA’s Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses, and locally attuned awareness.

Latrobe’s Biggest Ever Blokes BBQ Secretary, Adrian Salvatore said the recogniti on was well-deserved.

“Through his leadership, Bruce helpednormalise conversations about prostate cancer, breaking down stigmas and encouraging men to engage withtheir health,” he said.

“The combination of his direct advocacy, media influence and leadership on multiple committees created an enduring impact.

“His tireless efforts also ensured that men in regional areas had access to vital resources and support, significantly improving awareness and outcomes.

“His legacy continues to inspire those who carry on his work.”

PCFA Chairman, Adjunct A/Prof Steve Callister AM, said Mr Ellen’s legacy continues to live on.

“Bruce was atremendous champion of prostate cancer awareness in the Latrobe Valley region, and right across Victoria, ensuring that no man went through prostate cancer alone,” he said.

“We are tremendously proud to have the opportunity to recognise Bruce’s contribution –one that

Mobility gym helping patients

JUST as anew model car undergoes laps on atest track, patients at Latrobe Regional Health (LRH) who are learning to walk with prosthetic legs now have apurpose-built space to regain mobility in a safe and supportive environment.

Thenewly established mobility gym simulates real-worldconditions,helpingpatientsgainconfidenceintheir prosthetic limbs while allowing specialist staff to fine-tune adjustments for optimal performance.

“The gym enablesustocreateeveryday scenarios where patients can buildtheir confidenceusing theirnew prosthetic. It also allows us to refine the limb’s settingstoensure it works as effectively as possible,” LRHSenior Prosthetist and Orthotist, Katherine Hudson said.

Patients can practice walking on different terrains, navigating stairs and ramps, and moving across grass and uneven surfaces -all under the closesupervision of physiotherapists and prosthetics specialists.

Previously, patients had limited options: they either adjusted to their prosthetic in aclinical setting with flat linoleum flooringorinanopen space with little privacy. The 400-metre distance fromthe physiotherapy department also posed challenges, as some patients found it difficult to traverse different surfaces while adapting to their newlimb.

“The new gym provides arange of terrains,offering amore realistic yet controlled environment. It’s more challenging in some ways, but it also ensures

privacy and safety,” Ms Hudson told the Express Beyond improvingpatientconfidence, the facility also enablesspecialiststofine-tune each prosthetic to match an individual’s unique movement.

“Many people assume aprosthetic lower leg is apassive device,but modernadvancements in microprocessors and Bluetooth technology mean there’sa lot of fine-tuning involved," Ms Hudson explained.

"As Prosthetists, we make adjustmentsthat allow patients to maximise the functionoftheir limb, helping them live as full alife as possible.”

The LRH Amputee Service supports patients across Gippsland, from farEastGippsland to Pakenham, ensuring they receivethe best possible care in their journey to renewed mobility.

has changed many livesfor the better, and will continue to for years to come.

“Bruce’scontribution to the BiggestEverBlokes’ Lunch movement helped raised hundreds of thousands of dollarsfor local supportservices, investment into research and awareness.

“I speak for all those in our community when I convey my abiding gratitude for his exceptional contribution, improving survivorship outcomes for all.

“Thank you for your service.”

For more information about prostate cancer or a support group, visit:www.prostate.org.au or phone 1800 22 00 99 to speak with aProstate Cancer Specialist Nurse.

THE Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Victoria has relocated one of its two dedicatedFlying DoctorMemory Lane vehicles to Morwellinamove that will ensure even morecountry Victorians in palliative or end-of-life care can visit aplace of significant meaning one last, cherished time.

First established in 2021, Flying Doctor Memory Lane supports patients in end-oflife or palliative caretovisit aplace that holds meaning for them.

The program is underpinned by anetwork of medically trained volunteers who transport Victorians and their families safely and comfortablytorevisit their favourite beach, to weddings, local footy games or even for alasttriphome.

Journeys are offered at no cost and in acustomambulance that is designed for comfort and privacy.

Program manager, Carol Kahn said the move to Gippsland is an obvious choice. RFDShas had apresenceinnumerous Gippsland communities over the years, and has astrongconnection to the region and many of its small, rural communities.

“In fact, my first Memory Lane journey involved takingsomeone fromOrbost to Maffra. It was incredibly special for all involved and Iamkeen to make this opportunityavailable to more people in the region,” Ms Kahn said.

Journeys are conducted while the individual is still able to cognitively and comfortably enjoy the trip, and RFDSworks with the client, their family, or their medical team to sort out the logistics.

“Flying Doctor Memory Lane is all about making memories for the client and their loved ones. We want to give peoplean opportunity to revisit aspecial place they may not otherwise be able to safely travel to if not for our volunteers and specially customised vehicles,” Ms Kahn said.

The journey is incredibly specialfor the client, but it’s also acherished memory for friends and family to hold onto as they deal with loss and grief.

“Often it’s also afinal chance for loved ones to simply be apartner, achild, a friend -rather than acarer. We are proud to provide that to country Victorians, and having avan based in Gippsland will now giveusthe opportunity to spread the impact of this programfurther across the state,” Ms Khan said.

To be eligible for the service, the individual must be in palliative or end-of-life care, be over the age of 18, and have the approval of their treating clinician.

For more information about the program and how to book ajourney, go to: https:// flyingdoctormemorylane.org.au/or call 1300 017 337.

Support: Membersofthe Latrobe Regional HealthProsthetics

Legend: The lateBruce Ellen, hasbeenhonoured witha posthumousaward from theProstate Foundation of Australia. Mr Ellen waslong-serving general manager of the Latrobe ValleyExpress and Gippsland Times and champion formen’s health. File photograph

Special: AMemory Lane is nowbased in Morwell. Photograph supplied

HOROSCOPES

by Joanne Madeline Moore

May26-June 1, 2025

could bring more stability into your life – and more challenges The more disciplined responsible and self-reliant you are, the smoother the transition will be This weeks New Moon highlights a fresh start involving travel or education, plus talk of an exciting new project in your local community A welcome daytrip or weekend getaway is also on the cards

Saturn is now transiting through your self-reflection zone So over the next three years do your best to consolidate your strengths and work on your weaknesses As Saturn and Neptune deepen your humanitarian and spiritual perspectives, some Bulls will become involved with volunteer work while others embrace yoga, meditation, religion or metaphysical study This weeks New Moon signals a fresh approach to money, financial planning and business

With Saturn visiting your hopes-and-wishes zone for the next three years, you need to get serious about your future plans Dream an ambitious dream and then put in the hard work and discipline required to make it happen Plus, be patient and resilient! This week’s New Moon is in Gemini so its the perfect time for an updated look via a different hairstyle, a hot new outfit or a positive new attitude Friday favours communication, conversation and education

Saturn is now in your career zone, so get serious about your professional ambitions Venus and Neptune are also there which bodes well for a promotion better job or professional break over the next three years Just make sure you are patient persistent and thoroughly prepared Be inspired by birthday great Kylie Minogue (whos had a successful career for over 40 years): “I didn’t want to fizzle out I had to keep going, like a little Shetland pony ”

Stop being a listless Lion and get cracking Cats! This week proactive Mars is in Leo, ambitious Saturn transits through your aspirations zone, and the New Moon stimulates your hopes-and-wishes zone So, its time to be confident, creative and determined, as you dream big dreams for the future Draw inspiration from birthday great Stevie Nicks (who turns 77 on Monday): “My life is a testament to believing that if you want something you can make it happen ”

Serious Saturn s transiting through your intrigue-and-secrets zone, wh ch is good for all types of study, research and detailed detect ve work And this week you’ve also got four planets (the Sun, New Moon, lucky Jup ter and your ruler, Mercury) moving through your career zone So don’t be shy and overly modest V rgo – t’s your time to shine! Be insp red by Hollywood legend (and birthday great) Mari yn Monroe: “We are al stars and deserve the right to twinkle

Saturn is now in your partnership zone, so – sometime over the next three years – you could end a relationship thats no longer working With Venus and Neptune also in your partnership zone, aim to be more generous towards loved ones, and try to view a troubled relationship from a more compassionate perspective Are you looking for love? You could be attracted to someone much older, or a long-term friendship could gradually develop into a grand romance

Have you been feeling run-down and lacking energy?

The next three years is the time to focus on your physical fitness and mental health, as Saturn transits through your well-being zone Discipline determination patience and gradual progress will get you there

This week’s New Moon lights up your mystery-and-manifestation zone, so its the perfect time to dream, imagine, contemplate and create But be careful with secrets from the past and issues involving trust

Saturn is transiting through your love, romance, children and friendship zones So – over the next three years – these relationships should strengthen and solidify but there could also be some challenges and extra responsibilities placed on your broad Sagittarian shoulders This weeks New Moon activates your relationship zone and boosts your natural inclination to reach out and help others If you put other people first, then you’ll be rewarded in satisfying ways g booking packing and leaving ASAP!

Saturn is transiting through your domestic zone for the first time since 1999 So, there are plenty of professional and DIY jobs that need to be done around the home as things wear out (or break down) and need to be fixed

This week the focus is also on physical and mental health as the New Moon stimulates your wellbeing zone Its time to shake up your daily routine, improve your diet and find fun ways to boost your fitness levels and relax your worried mind

Prepare for some long-term changes in your local community as serious Saturn moves through your neighbourhood zone for the next three years Work out ways that you can make a meaningful contribution This week, as the sparky New Moon lights up your creativity zone, you re in the mood for avant-garde adventures and bohemian friendships But remember there’s a fine line between being spontaneously successful and being hastily foolhardy

W th penny-pinch ng Saturn now trans ting through your money zone, expect extra expenses and financia respons bil t es over the next three years Which wi l teach you some valuab e lessons about being financial y organised, respons ble and frugal So spontaneous spend ng sprees are definitely not recommended! This week’s New Moon highl ghts your home zone, so it’s t me to spruce up your l ving space via cleaning, tidying and declutter ng

COPYRIGHTJoanneMadelineMoore2025

Listening tour shares ideas for community

LATROBEHealth Assembly recently hosted a stop on the Partnershipsfor Local Actionand Community Empowerment (PLACE) Community Roadshow and Listening Tour.

PLACE’s vision is for localcommunities, governments, and otherstoshare decisionsonthe things thatmatter most in people’s lives. The tour is designed to engage directly with communities, listen to their experiences, and gather insights that will help shape PLACE’s future strategies.

“PLACE’svision is aboutcommunities taking the lead in shaping policies and initiatives that affect them. This tour is about listening, learning, and strengtheningconnections to support meaningful, long-term place-based impact,” PLACE Australia ChiefExecutive, Luke Craven said.

“Our goal is to elevatecommunity leadership and ensuredecision-making is sharedwith governments -firmly grounded in real-world experiences and local priorities."

PLACE’s visit earlier thismonth beganwith avisittoThe WES, afree, welcoming service designed to offer emotional and mental support. This provided opportunities for the PLACE team to connect with The WES staff, hearabout the importance of the space in supporting people's mental health and wellness, and to learn more about the Assembly’s role in working with community to co-design the service to best suit their needs.

Severalofthe Assembly’svolunteersthen sat down with the PLACE team over morning tea to

share their experiences of contributing to health and wellbeing initiatives in the Latrobe Valley.

Followingthis wasavisit to Grey Street Primary School, which provided the opportunity to showcase The LittleVillage Projectand hear stories from the team within the school, highlighting the powerful impact it is havingonstudents, including improving attendance, learning and social interactions.

The day culminated in aRound Table Discussion that brought together some of the key local voices involvedinplace-basedchange to share experiencesand to learn more about the work of PLACE Australia. It was an opportunity to highlight the importance and strength of partnerships, the shared challenges of place-based work, and the commitment and dedication to work together to achieve better health outcomes for peoplein Latrobe Valley.

“We appreciate the PLACE team for taking the time to visit us to understand our work and what we have achieved so far," Latrobe Health Assembly Chair, Tanya Rong said.

"As acommunity-led organisation, we ensure thatcommunity voice leads the work that we do, through listening, advocating and shared decision-making.

"It wasa wonderful opportunity to highlight the strengths of the Assembly and share our learnings with the PLACE team, and we look forward to continuing the partnershipwith them in the future."

50 years ago

The Express, May 28, 1975

Innocent “gunman”

remain anonymous, managemade two announcers–Mike Welshand Ross Bromfield –redundant on Friday morning. Mr Rudge said Mr Welsh was offereda position within the company and declined, while Mr Bromfield was currently considering a new position also within the company. The source claimed the station’s night announcer, Matt Morris, was also to be made redundant. But again Mr Rudge said Mr Morris was currently looking at another jobopportunity and was still working at 3TR. Mr Rudge confirmed there would be on-air changes and said ACE Radio programs would be used.

TRARALGON police raced into action early Sunday morning when they received areport of ahold-up at the Shell service station west of the Central Gippsland Hospital. Apassing motorist summoned police after he saw whathebelievedwas abandit at the service station at about 1.30am. Police raced to the sceneonly to findayoung motorcyclist, with ascarf wrapped round his face, having his machine filled.

30 years ago

The Express, May 30, 1995

3TR denies sackings

MANAGEMENTatthe Traralgon based radio station 3TR has deniedclaims staff have been sacked as part of arestructure since it was taken over by new owners ACE Radio. Station manager Geoff Rudge yesterdaysaidthe station had undergone restructuring since it was taken over, but no staff had been made redundant without first being offered another option within the company. According to asource, which contactedThe Express but wished to

10 years ago

The Express, May 28, 2015 Witnesses sought for bustheft

LATROBE Criminal Investigation Unit is hoping to hear from community members whosaw abus being driven erratically in the Churchill area on Wednesday, 20 May. The bus wasstolen form Latrobe Valley Bus Lines headquartersinMorwell between 10am and 11pm. The

Collaboration: Latrobe HealthAssembly and PLACE staffduring the workshop Photograph supplied

TheGuide

GARYBARLOW’S FOOD &WINE: AUSTRALIA

SBSFood, Friday, 7.30pm

Take That frontman GaryBarlow (pictured) knows how to makethe most of atrip: while visiting our shores lastyear on tour,healso filmed this tasty travelogue. There’splenty forlocals to enjoyasBarlowtakes in the scenery food experiences and superb wine lists on offer Down Under.Starting tonight in Sydney–“acity that tastes as good as it looks”– Barlow meets musician Tim Minchin foratipple at Midden by Mark Oliveoutside the Sydney OperaHouse. Chef and “fish butcher” Josh Niland puts the singer to the testwith hisfish charcuterie;beforepop star Sophie Ellis Bextor andGBarriveattheir Hunter Valley gig in style –with timefor acheekywinetastingenroute,ofcourse.

Wednesday, May28

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

9-1-1

Seven, Monday,8.50pm

WEEK

LEGO MASTERS:GRAND MASTERS OF THEGALAXY Nine, Sunday, 7pm

Bringing together thebestof Australia’s Lego builderswith pairsofcontestants from Canada, China, Finland, Sweden, New Zealand and theUnited States the seventh seasonofthisfamilyfriendly competition is more captivating than ever.The aweinspiring creations and world-class challenges will thrill viewers of all ages. HostHamish Blakeisstill in hiselement as he oversees the epic builds alongside judgeRyan “Brickman”McNaught(pictured, right,with Blake). It all kicksoff tonight with the infamous Great Ball Contraptionchallenge, which requires the 10 teams to transport asmall globefromone side of theirtabletothe other in the most extraordinaryfashion possible

SEVEN (7,6)

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 DD India News Hour 9.55 Going Places. (R) 10.25 MOVIE: The Blood Run. (2024) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Insight.(R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites.(R) 3.35 The Cook Up.(R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers.(R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Girod’Italia. Stage 16.Highlights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 TheMorning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised 2.20 Border Security: International. (PG, R) 3.00 TheChase. (R) 4.00 SevenNews At 4. 5.00 TheChaseAustralia.

6.00 MastermindAustralia

6.30 SBS World News.

Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 12.25 Grand Designs: House Of The Year.(R) 1.10 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 2.00 Rage (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.15 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

7.30 Big FatQuizOfThe Year 2024 (Malns, R) 9.10 TheDay TheRock Star Died: Michael Hutchence. (Ma, R) Takesalook at Michael Hutchence. 9.40 TheHandmaid’sTale. (Final, MA15+, R) June reflects on her experiences in Gilead. 10.40 SBS World News Late. 11.10 My Brilliant Friend. (Mals) 12.15 The Wall:The Chateau Murder.(Malv R) 3.35 Along Ireland’sShores. (R) 4.30 J Schwanke’sLifeInBloom. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

6.00 SevenNews.

7.00 Home AndAway. (PG)

7.30 The1%Club UK. (PGal,R) Hosted by LeeMack.

8.30 TheFront Bar. (Ml)Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloyand AndyMaher takea lighter look at all things AFL. 9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by HamishMcLachlan.

10.00 Unbelievable Moments

Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) Footage of headline-grabbing moments.

11.00 Born To Kill? (MA15+av,R)

12.00 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)

1.00 Travel Oz.(PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping (R) 4.00 NBCToday 5.00 SunriseEarly News. 5.30 Sunrise.

Known forits life-threatening emergencies, natural disasters and dramatic storylines, this first responder procedural isn’t afraid to pushthe bounds of believability: malware-driven blackouts, train derailments, tsunamis and cruise ship disastersare all in aday’swork for LosAngeles firecaptain Bobby (Peter Krause) and LAPDpatrol se Ba Se ton ast wh ho kill in un sw forc loc to a“ na res ch ke 118 fore ep tha mo ou wi mi

WALKING WITH DINOSAURS

p rgeant Athena (Angela assett, pictured) eason eight begins night with atruly tonishingsituation hereatruck olding22million ler beescrashes the heart of the city, nleashingadeadly warm that joins rceswith cal stingers become beedo”. The sulting aoswill ep the 8 busy r three pisodes atget ore utlandish th every inute

ABC TV, Tuesday

ABCTV, Tuesday, 8pm around for65 he prehistoric elovedBBC series k25years might ch in the grand But in thequarteryground-breaking premiered, our anding of dinosaurs ow they lived has ged radically that’s not to ntionthe leaps and unds in computer amation. Narrated yBritish actor ertie Carvel,this Walking with nosaurs revival scutting-edge ts to guide viewers he stories of six ce losttohistory, being unearthed of-the-art science no-mite.

NINE (9,8) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Atlantic.(PG, R) 11.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club Address 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (PG,R) 3.00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs: House Of TheYear.(R) 4.15 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 5.00 ABite To Eat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

When you’vebeen million years –asth subjects of this be have –you’d think notmattersomuc scheme of things B centurysince this g factual show understa and ho chang and t men bou ani by Be W Din uses visual effect through th giants onc but now b by state-o It’struly di

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 Today 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Murder On Maple Drive. (2021,Mav) Bea Santos, Sebastien Roberts, Andrew Bushell. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9NewsAfternoon 4.30 [VIC] TippingPoint Australia. (PG) 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 [VIC] WIN News. 6.00 Drew Barrymore.(PGas) 7.00 Neighbours. (PGa, R) 7.30 GCBC.

6.00 9News.

7.00 RugbyLeague. State of Origin. Game 1. Queensland vNew South Wales.

10.00 State Of Origin Post-Match. Apost-match wrap-up of Game 1.

11.00 9NewsLate.

11.30 TheEqualizer (Mv,R)Aformer Chinese MSS agent is poisoned.

12.30 TippingPoint (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: HomeShopping. (R)

2.30 GlobalShop (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer ’s Voice Of Victor y. (PGa)

4.30 Find My Country House Australia. (R)

5.00 TodayEarly News.

5.30 Today

4.40 Ariel. 4.50 Bluey. 5.00 Peppa Pig. 5.10 Pfffirates. 5.20 Thomas And Friends. 5.35 Peter Rabbit. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach 6.00 Octonauts. 6.10 Super Monsters. 6.20 Bluey. 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 IsadoraMoon. 7.00 Supertato 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun TheSheep 7.35 Star Wars:Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 AbbottElementary 9.25 Doctor Who 10.50 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am MorningPrograms. 9.00 Inside The Superbrands. 10.00

6am TheMovie Show 6.15 The Extraordinary JourneyOfThe Fakir.(2018,PGalsv) 8.05 Summerland. (2020,PGa) 10.00 The Zookeeper’s Wife. (2017,Manv) 12.20pm We Are StillHere. (2022, Malv) 2.00 Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, PGavw) 4.00 The ManWho Invented Christmas. (2017,PGalv) 5.55 Remi Nobody’s Boy. (2018, PGav, French) 7.55 TenCanoes. (2006,Mnv,Ganalbingu, English,Gunwinggu) 9.30 Sin City.(2005,MA15+v) 11.50 True Confessions. (1981, MA15+l) 1.50am No Man Of God. (2021, MA15+av) 3.40 Broker.(2022, Malv,Korean)

Mark Berg’sFishing Addiction. 7.00 Merv Hughes Fishing. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 Boating.Circuit Drivers Championship Round 3. Replay 9.00 Cities Of TheUnderworld. 10.00 Storage Wars:New York 11.00 Storage Wars 11.30 American Pickers. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Truckers. 2.30 Train RescueDownUnder 3.30 Duck Dynasty. 4.00 Cities Of TheUnderworld. 5.00 American Restoration. 5.30 StorageWars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Highway Patrol. 8.30 The Force: BehindThe Line 9.30 World’sWildest Police Videos. 11.30 Late Programs.

9GO! (93, 82)

6.00 DealOrNoDeal.

6.30 TheProjec t. Alook at the day’snews. 7.30 MasterChef Australia. Aclassic team-relay challenge takes place 8.40 Elsbeth. (Mdv) When ayoung man is found dead in his car,Elsbeth begins to suspecta holistic wellness centre’s

PICK OF THE

Thursday,May 29

ABC (2)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 StuffThe British Stole. (PG, R) 10.30 The Weekly (Final, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The One That Got Away.(Mal, R) 2.00 Restoration Aust. (R) 3.00 House Of Games. (R) 3.30 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family (PG, R) 5.00 ABiteToEat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6.30 ClaireHooper’sHouse Of Games. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30. Presented by Sarah Ferguson.

8.00 Grand Designs UK. (PGl) Acouple builds astriking stone and zinc home.

8.50 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Atlantic: Faroe Islands And Greenland. (Final, PGa) Martin Clunes explores the windswept Faroe Islands and their Viking heritage.

9.35 The Kimberley (Final, R) Mark Coles Smith explores Gooniyandi Country

10.25 ABC Late News.

10.40 The Business. (R)

10.55 Love Your Garden. (R)

11.45 Long Lost Family (PG, R)

12.30 Rage. (PG) 1.25 Vera. (Mv,R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars:Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 Saved By The Barn. 10.05 Merlin. 10.50 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 2pm The Casketeers. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Road Open. 5.30 Te Ao With Moana.

6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Undiscovered Vistas. 7.29 NITV Weather 7.30 Our Medicine. (Premiere) 8.45 Tribal. 9.40 MOVIE: Sweet As. (2022, M) 11.15 Late Programs.

(3)

6am Morning Programs. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Milpirri: Winds Of Change. (PG, R) 3.00 Living Black. (R) 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Girod’Italia. Stage 17. Highlights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by MarcFennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Our Medicine. (Premiere, PG) Looks at First Nations doctors, nurses and paramedics.

8.40 Killing Sherlock With Lucy Worsley: Doctor And Detective. (Premiere, PGad) Lucy Worsley uncovers how Arthur Conan Doyle’s life shaped Sherlock Holmes.

9.40 Sherlock &Daughter (Mav) Amelia has her guardupwithHolmes.

10.35 SBS World News Late.

11.05 Carmen Curlers. (Mas, R) 1.20 Pagan Peak. (MA15+as, R) 3.05 Along Ireland’sShores. (R) 4.05 J Schwanke’sLife In Bloom. (PG, R) 4.35 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: AMother’s Terror (2021, Mav) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 12. Brisbane Lions vEssendon. From the Gabba, Brisbane. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show Post-game discussion and interviews taking alook back at all the action from the game.

11.00 Kick Ons. Kane Cornes, Josh Jenkins and Jason Richardson debate the hottest topics and preview the upcoming AFL matches.

11.30 To Be Advised.

12.50 Raines. (Mahv) A20-year-old drug dealer is found dead.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. The latest news, sport and weather 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Today 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE:

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Rugby League. Women’s State of Origin. Game 3. New South Wales vQueensland. 9.35 NRL Women’sState Of Origin Post-Match. Post-match wrap-up of the Women’sState of Origin match between New South Wales and Queensland. 10.00 9News Late.

10.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (PGl)

11.30 Next Stop. (PGaw,R)

12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.00 Fish Forever. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa) 4.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer

6.30 The Project. Alook at the day’snews. 7.30 Taskmaster Australia. (Final, Ms) Hosted by TomGleeson. 8.40 Law &Order: SVU. (MA15+a) When ateenager from agroup home goes missing, the squad must determine if he ran away or was abducted.

9.40 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take alook at the week that was.

10.40 10’sLate News.

11.05 The Project. (R)

12.05 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am

9GEM (92,81)

WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Raw Comedy 2024. 2.15 Insight. 3.15 News. 3.20 WorldWatch. 5.20 Forged In Fire: Best Of. 6.10 Over The Black Dot. 6.45 Jeopardy! 7.40 8Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.35 Coronado: The New Evidence. 9.40 Cycling. UCI WorldTour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 18. 1.35am Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 12.10pm The Two Faces Of January.(2014, Malv) 2.00 The Extraordinary Journey Of The Fakir.(2018, PGalsv) 3.50 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PGa) 5.40 December Boys. (2007, PGlnsv) 7.40 Australian Rules. (2002, Madlsv) 9.30 Crossing Over.(2009, MA15+ls) 11.35 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 My Impossible House. 3.30 Harry’sPractice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Home And Away 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Grace. 10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning

4.00

Friday,May 30

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

7TWO (72, 62) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Dukes Of Hazzard. (2005, M) 10.40 Seinfeld. 11.40 The O.C. 12.40am Below Deck. 1.40

5.30 Storage Wars 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. 10.30 The Amazing Race. Midnight Late Programs.

SEVEN (7,6)

Programs. 7.30 Skippy 8.00 TV Shop. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Midsomer Murders. 2.00 Antiques Roadshow 2.30 MOVIE: The Rebel. (1961) 4.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow 6.30 French Open Tennis Pre-Show 7.00 Tennis. French Open. Day 5. Midnight Late Programs.

9GO! (93, 82) 6am

NINE (9,8) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 Take 5. (PG, R) 11.10 Bergerac. (Ml, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Bay Of Fires. (Mal, R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.00 ClaireHooper’s House Of Games. (R) 3.30 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.00 ABite To Eat With Alice. (PG) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

ClaireHooper’sHouse Of Games. (PG) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 The One That Got Away (Mal) 9.20 Gruen. (R) Presented by Wil Anderson. 9.55 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (Final, R)

10.25 Big Boys. (Final, Mls, R) 10.55 ABC Late News.

11.15 Father Brown. (Ma, R) 12.00 Mayfair Witches. (Final, MA15+v,R) 12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC WorldNews Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Land Wars. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Girod’Italia. Stage 18. Highlights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by MarcFennell. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Malta: The Jewel Of The Mediterranean. (R) An exploration of Malta. 9.15 Robson Green’sWeekend Escapes: Weardale –Lost Voice Guy(LeeRidley) (R) Former Britain’s Got Talent winner Lost VoiceGuy, Lee Ridley,joins Robson Green. 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Atlantic Crossing. (MA15+s, R) 11.55 Rex In Rome. (Mv,R) 1.45 TheHead. (Return, MA15+a) 3.40 JSchwanke’sLifeInBloom. (R) 4.40 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The WorldTonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.50pm Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PGas, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. Alead-up to the Friday night AFL match. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 12. Collingwood vHawthorn. From the MCG. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show Post-game discussion and interviews taking alook back at all the action from the game. 11.15 GetOn Extra. Alook at the weekend’sbestracing.

11.45 To Be Advised.

1.05 Nurses. (Ma, R) Alook at the experiences of nurses.

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. (PG) Hosted by Catriona Rowntree.

8.30 MOVIE: The Five Year Engagement. (2012, MA15+ls, R) Aman proposes to his girlfriend, but unexpected events delay their plans to walk down the aisle together.Jason Segel, Emily Blunt, Chris Pratt. 11.00 MOVIE: Life, Itself. (2018, MA15+alv,R)Oscar Isaac.

1.05 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv,R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

TEN (10, 5)

Today 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Dudek, Morgan Taylor Campbell. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 [VIC] Tipping Point Australia.(PG,R) 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) 5.30 [VIC] WIN News. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 GCBC. (R) 8.00 Bold. (PGa, R)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer

6.30 The Project. Alook at the day’snews. 7.30 Soccer Women’sInternational Friendly.Australia vArgentina. 10.30 10’sLate News. Coverage of news, sport and weather 10.55 Have YouBeen Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Hosted by TomGleisner

11.55 The Graham Norton Show (Ml, R) Celebrity guests include Jamie Foxx. 12.55 The Project. (R) Alook at the day’snews. 1.55 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 3.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Patriot Brains. 1.25 Planet A. 2.20 Destination Flavour Bitesize. 2.30 Over The Black Dot. 3.00 News. 3.05 WorldWatch. 5.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. 8.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Girod’Italia. Stage 19. 1.35am Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over 3.15 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm My Family Matters. 2.00 The Casketeers. 2.30 Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Road Open. 5.30 Nula. 6.00 Bamay 6.40 Undiscovered Vistas. 7.29

6am Morning Programs. 10.25 Ten Canoes. (2006, Mnv,Ganalbingu, English, Gunwinggu) Noon WarHunt. (1962, Mav) 1.30 Heidi. (2015, PG, German, Swiss German) 3.35 Dancing Ninja. (2010, PGlsv) 5.25 First Cow.(2019, PGalv) 7.40 The Tracker.(2002, Mav) 9.30 The Last Castle. (2001, Malsv) 11.55 Late Programs.

valleysport

Sporting results from around the Latrobe Valley

FOOTBALL

FEMALE FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND

BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

YINNAR Recreation Reserve was packed to the brim for afull day of women’s football last Sunday

The third annual instalment of the Female Football Gippsland’s Gather Round was yet another success on all fronts, both on-field and off-field, in growingthe game forgirls and women in the region.

Atotal of 10 games took place across the day fromthe earlyhours of the morningtodeep in the afternoon.

Morwell and Warranor (WarragulJunior Football Club) under 18s started the day on Yinnar’s senior ground, withthe Eaglessinging thesong first after atight 5.5 (35) to 3.6 (24) victory.

Demi Radford, Emilia Mills, Ava Busch, Mila Williamson, Harper Henry and Holly Minahan were best forMorwell, who saw out their third win of the season to jump into the top four on the Youth Girls U18 Division 2ladder.

Starting at the same timeonOval2 (Raiders Cricket Club Turf), Traralgon got the chocolates over Newborough in U18 Division 1action, 6.8 (44) to 1.6 (12).

The Maroons shot out with two goals to nothing in the first term, but the Bulldogs gave themselves a red hot crack in the middle two quarters, however inaccurate kicking stirred those chances.

Traralgon booted four goals in the ‘premiership’

FOOTBALL/CRICKET

AS it always should be -footygets the oval betweenApril and September; cricket gets the oval between October and March.

Cricket Victoria and AFL Victoria, in partnership withthe state government, have renewed the Division of Seasons agreement addressing shared use of sporting facilities across the state.

This new agreement, which comesinto effect April 1, 2025 and runs until March 31, 2028 is designed to provide guidance to local government, community leagues, associations and clubs regarding change of season fixturing and usage at local level.

As part of the new agreement,Cricket Victoria and AFL Victoria have also agreed to anew

Festival of footy andfun

third quarter to create enough of agap to win.

Alana Scholtes was bestonfor the Maroons, followed by Ashlyn Murtagh (two goals), Olivia Ambler, Steevie McClements, Mia O'Brien and Frankie Henthorn.

Sienna Paul, Chloe Gringhuis, Maddison Harle, Cassie Davis, Rae and Kobie Collinsperformed admirably for Newborough.

Moe Newborough Allies and Boisdale-Briagolong took part in agripping, potentially match of the day at lunchtime in the senior women’s competition.

The Bombers got by in aclose four-point affair, coming from behind in the last quarter.

After being down in each of the first two terms, the Allies hit the front with two goals in the third quartertolead by three points with one quarter spare. With each side battling to control territory and see out awin, Boisdale-Briagolong ceased on an opportunity early in the final term, with Isabelle Elson getting out the back of acontest to convert on the match-winning goal.

In defeat, Izabella Rosato, Chloe Gringhuis, Jacinta Davis,Grace McRae and Amber Davis were best for Moe Newborough.

Before the day was out, Hill End U16 girls faced off against Phillip Island, going down 13.17 (95) to 0.0 (0).

The young Rovers should be applauded for getting asideout on the park, as they entered the game with just 14 players and needed some to come across from the other team -but that’swhatjunior

football is about, opportunity to play and support regardless of competition.

KobieCollins (filling in from Newborough), Shelby Williams, Ruby Westbury, Kasey O’Reilly, Kiarra Hawkins and Sophie Murray performed greatly for Hill End.

Outside of local sidesand those alreadymentioned, WarragulIndustrials, Inverloch-Kongwak,Nar Nar Goon, Meeniyan Dumbalk United, Dalyston, Woodside, Drouin, SaleCityand Lindenow all made the trip down to Yinnar.

Two special discussionpanelsalsotook place during the course of the day in the Yinnar FootballNetball Club social rooms, featuring some AFLW and local exports, discussing many topics surrounding women’s football and sport.

Melbourne and former Gippsland Power player, Tyla Hanks,AFL Gippsland Regional Council member RachelRonaldson, and former Gippsland Power captain and Newborough’sAlisha Molesworth (currently playing for Warragul Industrial Women’s) made up the first panel.

Following on from them was acollectionof Collingwood AFLWplayers: 2024 AFLW Number 1pick and Seaspray'sAsh Centra,Traralgon’s Amber Schutte and Georgia Knight.

During this time, many spectators and players themselves flanked to the rooms to hear any bit of motivation, advice and other thoughts from those now playing at the top level.

In opening up the first panel,AFL Gippsland Region Manager,Tim Cotterhighlighted that

Simple solution on grounds

resolution process where scheduling challenges impactthe ability to prepare grounds for the respective codes.

The overwhelming majority of groundsused by community football and cricket clubsare shared by both sports who generally play across the respective traditional six-month windows: April to September (football) and October to March (cricket).

The broad principle of the agreement is that cricket clubsare affordedpriorityuse rights of shared facilities during the traditional cricket window (October-March) and community AFL football clubs having priority rights to shared

facilities during the traditional football window (April-September).

Cricket Victoria Chief Executive, Nick Cummins said the agreement was akey document for local stakeholders to use.

“There has never been more pressure on grounds across the state to be ready for the summer and winter codes. This agreement reaffirms the commitment from cricket and football and the Victorian government on whatthataccess needs to look like,” Cummins said.

“Beingready to play means exactly that. We understand thatfootballcan’twait untilMay to begin and likewise cricket can’t wait until

followingonfromtheir declaration at last year’s MorwellGather Round of reaching50/50between male and female participation in football, the region is up 14 per centataround 2000female participants in 2025.

Major sponsor of the event, Latrobe Health Services,alsostagedaShaneWarneHealth Check station for all to utilise throughout the day.

Blackand whitecrew: Collingwood AFLW players GeorgiaKnight, Gippsland’sown Ash Centraand Traralgon’s Amber Schutte all showedtheir suppor tatthis year’s Female Football Gippsland Gather Round at Yinnar

Photograph: BlakeMetcalf-Holt

Novembertostart. Every ground will have its own characteristics, but each code needs to be able to play on schedule at the turn of season.

“Ournew triage processgivescleardirection on how issues are identified and escalated where required. No one knowstheir grounds and circumstances better than the local community and we want to support those clubs to asuccessful outcome.

“Many of Victoria’s fantastic, shared sporting facilities have been built on back of nearly 150 years of cricket and footy’s cooperation."

To access the Division of Seasons Agreement, visit:

To accessthe Dispute Resolution Process Document: https://www.cricketvictoria.com.au/ wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Cricket-Vic-x-AFLVic-shared-facility-dispute-escalation-process.pdf

Right to the end: Moe Newborough Alliesand Boisdale-Briagolong women featured in match of the dayatthe 2025 Female Football Gippsland Gather Round.

Photograph supplied

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

SENIORS

GOALS: Warragul:BFowler 3RSenini 2LGarner THillardV Caia JLamb KMacLean THobbs TStern.Maffra:JButcher 3C Calwyn 2A Watt ACarr TPhillips AMcKenzie BEST: Warragul:T Hobbs RSenini SMasterson I WallaceJHarrisonT Stern. Maffra: DButcher HWalkerA Watt JBoydH Stables TScott

GOALS: Wonthaggi: JWilliams 4K Patterson 2C McInnes 2H Tiziani J Blair BCornelis.Traralgon: DLoprese 4ALovison SHallybur tonCAmbler THourigan JCunicoDMcKennaLD’Angelo BEST: Wonthaggi: JShone JWilliams KReid NAnderson KPatterson JSchulz. Traralgon: TWaack J CunicoC Ambler THourigan JMcMahon LD’Angelo

LA DDER

PW LD FA %Pts

Wonthaggi7 610 615 409 150.37 24 Moe6 510 699

743

Maroons denied by one bounce

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

HAS anyoneever turned aballthatmuch at Terry Hunter Oval?

AMuralioff break denied Traralgon victory over Wonthaggi in apulsating finish during the first week of the Gippsland League’s split round for Round 7.

The Power held on for dear life, getting up 13.6 (84) to 11.13 (79), but not before drama of the highest order unfolded.

Withsix points the difference deep in the finalterm, akick in from Maroons defender Mitch Membrey was marked by Tye Hourigan, who immediately rolled and sent the ball inside 50.

Ahugepackofplayers flew, the result of which saw star Wonthaggiplayer Isaac Chugg needing treatment shortly after.The ball trickled to Traralgon’sKade Ruyters, who sent ahurried snap toward goal. Adding to the drama, Dylan Loprese looked

RESER VES

GOALS: Traralgon: DHough 3G Ruach MMcCaffer ty JMacumber C Ruyters BHuttonJMudita OHaberl.Wonthaggi: ABusana TDavey. BEST: Traralgon: JMacumber DHough CRuyters BHuttonBCheetham F Kennedy.Wonthaggi: KKay-Dar ts CMagro LLegione JWilliamson JLewis JDouthat

GOALS: Maffra: DScott 3S Pendergast 3J Brick ley 2JKellow2J McMahon WGieschen JAndrewsBHarrington DO’Brien. Warragul: CWilliamson D Hammond SKelly BEST: Maffra: DO’Brien RPhelan JBristow SRobbins JKellowW Gieschen. Warragul: JCasson BRainfordSKelly DRidgwayD Hammond LMiller

Warragul:HHodge RNettle WMacLean. Maffra: Astobie 2W Ruthberg. BEST: Warragul:T Ward CThompson LMoore WMacLean T Logan NMcDonald.Maffra: WBurgiel JMcMahon MRondon LHarrington JDowsett JHenry

GOALS: Traralgon: JZappulla 4LMacumber 3HPirie EPass JMurdoch ZBastin LHooper MFarleyT Lapenta AHarle.Wonthaggi: JBrouwers 3B Wyhoon JBurns BEST: Traralgon: LMacumber BHagley JZappulla TDavidson WAmbler SWight. Wonthaggi: JBrouwers JBurns MOri L Lidstone WSimmons OFeather

to be in perfect position goal side to receive the ball, only to lose his footing, as the ball trickled towardgoal, deviating at the last moment through for aminor score.

Traralgonkept pressing and throwing numbers forward, with afew heart-inmouth moments coming right in front of the Maroons faithful assembled on the Deck.

Wonthaggi too had afew nervous moments, especially whenkey forward CooperMcInnes blatantly punched the ball out of bounds in apanic, gifting the Maroons adeliberate.

Loprese was very nearly the hero for the home side, kickingfourgoals in the final term.

The Power’s win however was full of merit, especially considering they were 22 points and two soldiers down at halftime.

Victory came at acost, with Jakeb Thomas breaking his leginthe first quarter, and key defender Fergus O’Connor leaving with a suspected knee injury.

Both sides opted to play possession footy for much of the game, but were let down by the third and fourth kick, meaning agreat deal

of play was spent between the 50 metrearcs. Jasper Stone, Jaxon Williams, Kyle Reid, Noah Anderson, Kaj Patterson and Josh Schulz were best for Wonthaggi, in what was avery gutsy win.

TristenWaack, JordanCunico,Connor Ambler, Tye Hourigan, Jackson McMahon and Luis D’Angelo got the plaudits for Traralgon.

Amazingly, heading into the weekend, the score 6.6 (42) had been the losing score on thelastthree occasions the two teams met.  ELSEWHERE, Warragul returned to the winners list for the first time since Round 3.

The Gulls overcame anine-point three quarter time deficit at home to beat Maffra 12.13 (85) to 9.8 (62).

Tom Hobbs, Riley Senini, Sean Masterson, Isaac Wallace, JamesHarrison and Tom Stern played well for the winners.

Danny Butcher,Harper Wallace, Archer Watt, Jonathan Boyd, Harry Stables and Thomas Scott did likewise for the Eagles.

Rivals set the scene for second week

FOOTBALL

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

VALLEY rivals Morwell and Moe will clash in Round7ofthe Gippsland Leaguethis Saturday.

The round completes this weekend for the second week of the split round.

The Lions willmake theshort trip down thePrinces Highway with full intentions of reclaiming top spot,momentarily held by Wonthaggibyvirtue of having playedan extra game.

The Tigers will equally rate their chances of an upset, which wouldsee them taketheir win-loss ledger into the positive.

Morwellcurrentlyhas a3-3 record; a somewhat accurate reflectionofthe side’s performances thus far.

At their best, the Tigers have shown they can match it with the likes of Wonthaggi, Traralgon and Leongatha (allnarrow losses), but conversely, uninspiringwins against

teams like Maffra (three points), still means questions linger.

Morwell will need to be somewhere near their best against Moe, who went on ascoring spree before the break.

The Lions have cracked the toninevery game since Round3,and boast apercentage the best part of 200.

Using the mentality that scoreboard pressure is the best pressure, Moe, under new coach Leigh Poholke, may remind league pundits of Maffraunder WayneButcher, whose philosophy was simply “get to 15 goals as quickly as possible”.

It worked pretty well for the Eagles (nine flags in 19 years).

Morwell has not registered three figures since Round 2, and from the outset, the Tigers’ biggest challenge will be on stopping Moe forwardslike BenCrocker, who already has close to 40 goals for the season.

Tiger’s livewire Brandon McDonald is secondonthe leaguegoal-kicking, although some distance off Crocker (18 to 35).

McDonald has stated his desire to play in a Morwell premiership, and at the very least, he and his teammates should get agood idea of howthey compare against the flag fancies. TheLions have been in ominous touch, and already people aresaying this is thestrongest squad Moe has assembled in decades. With no less than eight AFL/VFL players on the list, there is no doubt it is an extremely good team. If you play seniors for Moe this year, you’ve done very well.

Still, finals are along way off, and even the best stumble afew times before reaching the top.

Thegreatest teamofall time, the famed Collingwood ‘Machine’, lost four grand finals in seven seasons (1920, ’22, 25-26) before winning four-in-a-row (1927-1930).

 SPEAKING of Collingwood, the Magpies of Sale host Bairnsdale this Saturday. The Redlegs must win to stay on track of featuring in finals.

Elsewhere, Leongatha will be expected to demolish Drouin at the Aviary.

Willpatienceand persistence pay off?

FOOTBALL

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

MOE might be withoutRileyBaldi for the rest of theseason -but for agood reason

The gun midfielder has nominatedfor the AFL’s Midseason Draft, taking place tonight (Wednesday, May 28).

The local football world will be anxiously waiting to see if the 24-year-old is picked up by an AFL club.

The man himself has done virtually everything he can since being overlooked in the 2019 national draft.

He won the Trood Award and Rodda Medal for the Gippsland League senior best-and-fairest last year, and has been in blistering form for Casey in the VFL this season.

Of his eight games, three haveseenhim register more than 30 touches, with abest effortof34againstGold Coast in Round 2.

In the lastfour gamesalone he has gone 32, 25, 16 and 24.

Baldi also played in the Northern Territory over summer, although injury curtailed his northern venture. He also found himself unwittingly tangled up in acomplicated saga involving the ‘fly in fly out’ player rule, after returning home to deal with his injury.

Fingerscrossed: Moe midfielder RileyBaldi will hopetohearhis name read out in the AFL Midseason Draft tonight. File photograph

pretty and you have to do some late nights, andyou might not get midfield every week beca use of AFL play ers (g ettin g prioritised).

“Havingthat mindset to adapt has been my biggest change, where Imight have gotcaught up with those things in previous years.

“I think this year I’ve got more belief, and IwantedtoproveIcould play at VFL level, where Iprobably didn’t believe it 100 per cent previously given my inconsistency and playing different roles.”

While he has always maintained his desire to reach the top level, Baldi has a good job to fallbackon, working in the education sector at Lowanna College.

Interestingly, fellow educator and Traralgon captain, Tye Hourigan has not nominated,despitebeing on many AFL club’s radar.

Baldiisalsobuilding afair coaching resume, in what couldfuture-proof his time in the game.

His NT club, Nightcliff Tigers, suc cessfully appealed aft er AFL NT alleged Nightcliff had breached the rule governing fielding more than three fly-in players.

Back home, Baldi has featured twice for Moe this season. He played fulltime for the Lions last season, following stints with Casey beforedeciding to give the VFL another crack this year.

“I thinkI’ve been able to take my opportunity this time whereas last time Ididn’t take my chance withbothhands,” he told the Dandenong Star Journal

“Understanding where you’re at as aVFL player is important, because it’s not all

He was named an assistant coach for this year’s GippslandLeague junior interleague carnival, and looking much further down the track, looms as alogical option to be senior coach of his home club one day.

Should his name be read out tonight, it will complete aremarkable and inspiring journey.

Among his Lowanna cohortbackin 2019 was Sam Flanders, Brock Smith, Harry Pepper and Leo Connolly. All except Baldi were drafted, and all except Flanders are still playing AFL. It might have taken six years, but Baldi could be joining him.

Ahuge array of fresh mouthwatering salads made daily Aselection of hot vege’s, combinationpacks, chicken schnitzels, burgers androlls

Footy,racing connects Solomon shows her class

HORSE RACING/FOOTBALL

By LIAM DURKIN

LOCAL trainersenjoyed successatMoe Racing Club this month.

Moe pairDarrylBlackshaw and Peter Gelagotis had winners at the club’s Tuesday, May 13 meeting, while Sale’s Andrew Perdon also had reason to smile.

Perdon opened the nine-card meeting by taking out the Race 1S&S Equipment Hire 3Y0 Maiden Plate over 1200 metres.

Three-year-old gelding Big Big Knight was indeed too big, too strong and too good for all comers, winning by an astonishingseven lengths.

Thefirst-up win was memorable, and could set avery high benchmark from the outset for the Sale base.

Perdon was atouch unlucky not to make it a double after Neck High ran second in the Race 4 Ladbrokes Owners Bonus Maiden Plate (1600m).

The four-year-old gelding waspipped by Miss Tramwell, riddenbyjockey and part-timeDJ, Ben Allen for the Cranbourne stable of Amy and Ash Yargi.

Blackshaw’s four-year-oldmare, Confine won the Race 3Moe Cup Save the Date 4Y0+ Maiden Plate (1200m).

Confineput in just aboutassolid arace as there can be, after jumping well, pushing to the lead early and quickening with 500m to go to win by two lengths.

If the name of the racewasn’t indication enough, Moe RacingClubare calling on punditstosave the date for the club’s biggest meeting of the year -the Moe Cup, to be held Sunday, November 16. It was somewhat fitting the Blackshaw stable won arace carrying such aname; given Darryl’s son Brendan is along-time Moe Racing Club committee member (and also Morwell Football-Netball Club life member).

Fellow Moe racing local, Peter Gelagotis added to his wins,whenVan Gerwenwon the Race 8 Ladbrokes Mates Mode Pots BM58 Handicap. Over the longer distance of 2050m, the four-yearold gelding rolled forward early and was largely unchallenged, gettingfour lengths clear on the home turn thanks to agreat ride fromTianni Chapman.

Chapmanalsorode SmashingRuby to victory in the Race5Ladbrokes Form Genius BM52 Handicap (1200m) for John Rattle of Cranbourne.

Saletrainer, Sharyn Trolove hadtosettle for adistant third in the Race 7RMBL Investment Rising Stars Race (1600m), won by seven-year-old mare Eloped for Jack Laing, who ensured another win headed back to ‘Cranny’.

Other winners at the meetin gw ere: Sun

Setting for Matt Laurie (Race 2Harvey Norman Moe Maiden Plate, 1000m), Gator for Pat Carey and Harris Walker (Race 6Moe Refrigeration BM 52 Ha nd ica p, 120 0m )a nd Pano’ sP ri de for Mornington’s Dean Binaisse (Race 9KIS Communications 0-64 Handicap 1000m).

The track was again in superb condition, rated aSoft 5throughout.

Moe RacingClubisracingagainthis Sunday (June 1), in what will be abusy weekend for the club, whoare also hostingMoe Football-Netball Club’s midseason ball this Saturday night.

NETBALL

MORW ELL netbal le rA nna Solomon washonouredafter being awarded 'Most outstanding sporting performance by an Indigenous student-athlete' at the 2025 UniSport National Conference Sports Awards.

The awards night celebrates the achievement of university student-athletes and sporting programs, and was announced in Adelaide on Tuesday, May 20 in frontofa crowd of more than 120 unive rsity sport lea der s, admin is trators and managers and representatives from international university sport federations, and national sporting organisations.

"I'm so grateful to be recognised for my commitment to netball and the sacrifices Ihave made to support my sporting endeavours," Solomon said.

"It is truly an honour to be nominatedalongside suchstrong and comp etitive Indigenous athletes, and testamenttoour resilience and ability in pushingthrough the barriers First Nations peoples face.

"I am honoured to be acknowledged for the impact Ihave had on my community and for my passion to be apositive and guiding example for my fellow Indigenous student-athletes and other students in the wider Indigenous community."

ABachelor of Social Work

NETBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

Exceptional: Morwell netballer Anna Solomon is blazingatrail forIndigenous student-athletes File photograph

stud ent at Federatio n's Churchil lCampus, Solomon was recognisedfor her exceptional achievements in netball, includingcaptaining Victoria's inaugur al First Nations netball team competing at Netball Australia's first-ever First Nations Tournament, leading withskill, pride, and determination.

She also made history as the first signing for the Victorian Netball League(VNL)Gippsland Stars 23 &Under team and was astandout player in Federation Univeristy's UniSport National team, where she dominated the court during the week-long tournament in late 2024.

Beyond heron-courtsuccess,

MATCH of the Roundwilltakeplace on the netball courtinthe Gippsland League this Saturday.

Atantalisingtop-three battle presents itself, with Morwell set to host Moe in the second half of the Round 7split round.

TheTigershave lost justone game this season -the Lionsnone.

Morwell’s defeat came at the hands of secondplaced Warragul, who are expected to mount the strongest challenge in Moe’s quest of completing ahat-trick of premierships this season.

The Lions have the Gulls to come next round, but before that, will need to deal with the Tigers Moe playing-coach Alex Moody said the side was vary the danger their traditional rival possessed.

“We’re fully aware Morwell are not the same team they were last year and have some great inclusions,” she said.

“Theirteam is full of experienced country netballers who we really respect.

“The key to winning this game will simply come down to everybody executing their role.

“Our pressure defensively has been alittle bit inconsistent the last few weeks and we willneed to pick thatupplayingagainstMorwell andthen Warragul the week after.”

So lomon's leadership and community impacts were also celebrated.

She has been adriving forcein encouraging fellow students to participate in the First Nations Tournament, generously sharing her knowledge and experience.

"FirstNationsAustralia has arich sporting history, and it is wonderful to see Anna, a young student-athlete,being celebrated for her sporting excellence and for promoting inclusivity and diversity in sport," Federation Associate Dep uty Vi ce- Cha ncell or, Indigenous, Katrina Beer said.

"At Federation University, we are incredibly proud of Anna's achievements both on and off the court.

"Herleadership, dedication, and commitment to community embody the values we strive to uphold, and she is an inspiring rolemodel for First Nations students across the country."

As an amba ss ado rf or Federa tio n's Elite Athl ete Program, Solomon has played a key role in inspiring and recruiting future student-athletes to purs ue bot ha cad emic and sporting excellence.

Next month, Solomo nwill proudly represent Federation Uni vers ity at the 29th Indigen ou sN at ion als in Perth, aweek-long multi-sport comp etition for Ind ig eno us student-athletes.

Moe and Morwell have featured in the last four grandfinals, with premierships splittwo-all The Lions will be without premiership player, JordanPyle duetoWNBL commitments, but she is expected to come back into the team for the Warragul clash.

Star Warragul shooter Emma Ryde played for Casey againstGippsland Stars in the Victorian Netball League on Sunday, coming up against Morwell’s Chloe Radford and Moe’s Ramayer Keilty.

Ryde nearly brought up the ton for the Gulls last Saturday,shooting 91 goals against Maffra. In what became ugly scenes at Western Park as far as the Eagles were concerned, Warragul shot 26, 21, 25 and 23 goals across four quarters, while Maffra didn’t reach double figures in any. Helping Ryde to her haul was Naomi Allardyce and Jaime Rollinson. Ava Buckland,Tilly Pendergast and Sienna Wynd battled hard for the Eagles. Traralgon played in the first week of the split round, and added another blow to Wonthaggi’s finals aspirations, beating the Power 65 to 44. Emma White almost outscored Wonthaggi herself, shooting 40 goals on theMaroons' home court. Ashlyn Pavey and Milly Murphy alsoplayed well, while Chelsea Bowman,Olivia Gilmour and MiaPlenkovich did agoodjob for the visitors.

Completing the split round thisweekendsees Sale host Bairnsdale and Leongatha play Drouin. Netball scoreboard-Page41

Cruise: Confine wins theRace3atMoe Racing Club forlocal trainer,Darr yl Blackshaw Photographs: RacingPhotos

Generational: PeterGelagotis Racing stable hand, Michael Gelagotis (Peter’s nephew) with four-year-old gelding,Van Gerwen following victor yatMoe Racing Club.

MID GIPPSLAND

BMasonT Potter JMasonMPor ykali TSalerno RJohnstoneMcCloud

(46)

MBezzene JSmar tJ Weston SBright BWemyss. Morwell East: MDiaz WKennedy JWilson DCooper J Francis KHearn

TARWIN 4.2 9.5 10.7 12.14 (86)

NE WBOROUGH 2.0 7.1

Tarwin: DBrosnan 4T

THarley JStaleyFBrosnan MWilliams BChalmers B Ellen LJones.Newborough: JRobinson 5PAinswor th 3W Collings Bvan DykMRowlingsP Charles JBowden. BEST: Tarwin: JStaleyBChalmers LJones FBrosnan DBrosnan TFrancis Newborough: PCharles JRobinson MRowlingsNCur tis JBrincat AStyles

FOSTER2.3 4.7

Foster:J Best 4CBanbur y2B Flavelle 2FMateria JFlavelle.Yinnar:KGrinstead-Jones

3NHallCMills JNotmanS FamularoBCheffers HMcKay BEST: Foster:ANor tonBCripps J Morris CBanbur yHHoppner JBest. Yinnar:B VanDer Meer NHallOMcColl KGrinstead-Jones TRober

JOsborne DLeggo.Newborough: BRichardsJ McMahon MStringer LNelsonEMounsey PGeorgiou

ZDangerA Ir win JHeckerW CoxJBainbridge.Boolarra: EStanton T Beamish DBryne JGillRByrne JMaggs

(85)

Toora: BDarcy 2PGrant LdeBoer JGriffin.

MorwellEast: CSilver BAtkinsonLLittle NNikodemskiKChapman DDay.Toora: PGrant RBarlowA Vening BDarcy JDowsJ Cripps

(88)

MNelsonT Hutchinson DYatesELappin JGarlick.Foster: BSmith JDavyFLomax JSmith JPryor JLewis

OHanson5 BYoung 3Z Daley 2AKorab MBrosnan. Tarwin: LJones 2JCommadeur LCann JAndronaco. BEST: Newborough: TMcCabe BYoungOHansonL Nelson PGeorgiou SKippen. Tarwin: EGundlapalli KGow ICameronFLeggo SKreutzberger JTieman

valleysport

Dog of aday after final siren

FOOTBALL MID GIPPSLAND

BY ROB POPPLESTONE

AS the Mid Gippsland Football-Netball League approaches the halfway mark of the season, it is becoming evident three distinct groups are forming.

Foster, Fish Creek, Yinnar and Meeniyan DumbalkUnited are looking likethe top four sides, then agroup of six or so teams closely follow for the remaining two spots that made up the top six finals.

This made Round 7last weekend absolutely crucial for all teams with finals aspirations.

 MIRBOO NORTH VSTONY CREEK

SITTING in seventh position but within striking distance of acouple of teams above them, Mirboo North was well aware just how important victory was when they welcomed an equally desperate Stony Creek.

The Lions were coming off abye, and with freshlegs were expected to takeitright up to the Tigers, which they did, but eventually falling just short.

Mirboo North won athriller, 9.9 (63) to Stony Creek 8.8 (56).

The Tigers took their season ledger into the positive, and now sit with awin-loss record of 4-3, much to the delight of second-year playing-coach, Damien Turner.

“Huge win in the context of our season," he said.

"We were out on our legs late, credit to Stony Creek for pushing hard and basically owning the contested ball in the last, but our boys found something whenitcounted.Agrind, but super pleasing.

"We’ve had afew of these close games now, although it can be frustrating at times as a coach, it’s such agood learning for our young group.

"Sonow we roll into the double bye (regulation and King's birthday) and at the perfect time. Plenty of sorebodies needing arest and agreat opportunity for us to take abreather, reset and build for the next block of games."

It is acredittoboth coach and club that Mirboo North has remained strong when the going was tough, especially in the aftermath of last year's storm, Stony Creek are so close to being where they need to be, but these close losses provide little consolation.

“We travelled to Mirboo North and had avery tough hit out against awell drilled, discipline side," Lions coach Troy Shepherdson said.

"Off the bye we couldn't get going until the last quarter, when we came home with awet sail, but had too much to do to get the win."

Given the evenness of the competition, it seems sides can't be off their game even for the shortest of periods, without risk of it having adramatic impact on the result.

Make no mistake, there are blue skies ahead for the Lions, and clubs will feel their wrath, but the moons willneed to align and there can be no slow starts if they are to make their moveupthe ladder fromtheir currentposition of ninth.

 MORWELL EAST VTOORA

THE importance of success in this clashcould not be overstated.

Morwell East hostedToorafor arare opportunity for one to grab premiership points.

The Hawks have been ashell of their former selves so far this season, and were desperate to turn their fortunes around. The Magpies, winless as they prepared for their Round 7

FOOTBALL

GIPPSLAND POWER BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

TOP spot is up for grabs.

With Morwell receiving abye in the Gippsland League and Gippsland Power Girls not playing for the next two weeks, the Gippsland Power Boys had all eyes on them last Saturday afternoon.

At Morwell Recreation Reserve, Power madethe mostoftheir opportunities at all stages of the game to win 13.14 (92) to 2.14 (26) against Oakleigh Chargers in Round 8ofthe Coates Talent League.

The clearinaccuracy for the Chargers saw Power bounce from a24-point lead at quarter time to a6.10(46) to 0.2 (2) margin by the main break.

clash, were of the belief this game presented afighting chance.

In the end ,Morwell East was beate n comfortably by Toora, 13.17 (95) to 7.4 (46).

Aterrific for Toora, but one that will have manyatMorwell East scratching their heads.

Toora Coach, Jay Acradi was ecstatic with the result.

“Really good to get our first win on the board against Morwell East in atough contest," he said.

"Was fairly blustery conditions and Ithink we were able to adapt to them quite well."

The win was areal boost for the club, who off field are one of the strongest in the competition -the camaraderie something to behold.

Morwell East has lost its mojo, and whether it can be found again this season remains to be seen.

Hawks coach, PaulHenry did not mince words.

“We are along way off from where we need to be to compete at this level," he said.

"Toora were set for their first win and that they did. We were never in the game."

The coach is not one to ever ever consider throwing in the towel, but this, one would suggest, would be one of the toughest periods of his footballing life.

It doesn'tget any easier in theweek ahead, as Morwell East has Stony Creek, who themselves are fighting for survival in season 2025.

 TARWIN VNEWBOROUGH

THERE was nothing between these two teams on the ladder.

And so it proved in the end result, which was not actually decided until after the final siren, and saw Tarwin win by two points, 12.14 (86) to 13.6 (84).

Victorious coach, Lachie Jones breathed a sigh of relief at Shark Park.

“A solid response from our boys today. We knew coming in how crucialthis game was and we implemented afew thingsthat helped us come out on top," he said.

"I was particularly happy with our attack in the contest and team discipline to stick to tasks and seek reward.

"We are finding some continuity to what is afairly newplaying group. Newborough kept coming all game. Ithought our forwards stood tall and were rewarded."

Bulldogs coach, Patt Frendo kept things in perspective.

Gippsland’s opposition continuedtohave increase chances in front of goal, as Power were limited to just two majors during the third quarter, but Oakleigh persisted,going for eight behinds.

Power saw out asignificant victory with fivegoals in the final quarter, even with their opponentfinally hitting the scoreboardinamajor way, whichpositions them with the most wins in the competition. Due to percentage however, and Gold Coast SunsAcademy playing two less games, Powerstill sit secondonthe ladder. Jonah Walker, Jobe Scapin (two goals), HamishGill, Finn O’Brien, Moe’s Luke Cheffer s( two), and Jesse Bills were standouts in the win.

GippslandPower Boys travel to Windy Hill this Sunday (June 1), facing GWV Rebels.

“They got off to aflyer. (We) managed to fight our waybackinto it and took the leadearly in the last quarter.Was areal back-and-forth all day and unfortunately we missed ashot on goal after the siren to win the game. Really proud of the boys, extremely undermanned andkept fighting until the very end."



YINNAR VFOSTER

THIS was amouth watering clash that had been set up on the back of an unbeaten Foster having to travel to Yinnar to take on aMagpies side looking to bounce back from their first loss of the season just aweek before. It appeared for alot of the afternoon that Yinnar wouldget the points, but slowly and surely Fosterreeled the Magpies to win by 10 points, 10.11 (71) to 9.7 (61).

Foster Coach, Sam Davies said it was the biggest win for the season.

“Huge win for the group. They jumped us, we lost aforward in the first and we had our backs against the wall when the scorewas 40-9 in the second, but we got the game back on our terms from then on," he said.

"It was arealteam effort and buy-in to keep grinding away and we backed our fitness to outrun them late. We kicked crucial goals whenitmattered and it’sagame we can refer back to throughout the year when the going gets tough."

The win maintains the Tigers' unbeaten run, and has them firmly in top spot. For Yinnar, it was agame in which no premiership points were taken home, but certainly no pride lost either.

“We came out and started the game with ahighintensity and tookadvantageofthe breeze,"Magpiescoach, SamMcCulloch said.

"Midway through the second, Fostergot on top and maintained that for alarge portion of the game. We certainly still had achance to win late in the game, but couldn’t get the job done.

"We’ve learnt alot about ourselves over the last two weeks and will get to work over some areas we need to work on."

 MDU and Fish Creek will play a standalone game on the King's Birthday long weekend (Saturday, June 7.)

Hill End had the bye.

Tactful Blues sitting equal-second

FOOTBALL

MID GIPPSLAND

BY LIAM DURKIN AND ROB POPPLESTONE

IF you are key forward after more senior opportunity, Boolarra would surely love to hear from you.

The Demonsneed fire powerupforward -and asafeword afteradding another lot of injuries to their mounting list during the match against Thorpdale at the weekend.

The Round 7contestpitted two relatively likeminded MidGippslandFootball-NetballLeague teams against each other, and saw the Blues break away to win by 29 points, 13.8 (86) to 8.9 (57).

While the old adage dictates “you are only as goodasyour bottom six”, the reverse virtually determined the victor when players left Boolarra Recreation Reserve at game’s end.

Choosing the top six or sevenplayers on the ground would have seen the majority of them wearing blue and white jumpers. In agame decided by five goals, having that many players from one team was reflected on the scoreboard.

The Demons were dealt ablowonthe morning of the match, when reigning dual best-and-fairest winner, Simon Noy had to withdraw.

The situation meantYinnar thirds player, Hudson Berechree made his senior debut, getting the ‘all clear’ from his home clubat10am Saturday morning. (Berechree’s dad, Scott is Boolarra’s senior assistant coach).

Not discounting the thrill of asenior debut for a youngster, the fact the Demons had to bring in akid from another club rather than someone out of their own reserves surely gives an idea of how stretched resources have become only seven rounds in.

The cry of one Boolarra supporter when gun players Tim Potter and Tristan Salerno hobbled offthe ground during the third quarter perhaps summed up the feelings of all supporting the red and blue: “Injuries, injuries, injuries.”

Thorpdalepossibly assumed too much by looking at the team sheet before the game, and came into the first break seven points down.

Blues coach,Daniel Taylor gave his side abit of aburst for “rocking up just expecting to win”, following an indifferent term.

Boolarra veteran James Holmes highlighted the opening quarter witha neat left-foot snap, and very nearly kicked goal of the century later in the game with aleft-foot banana that hit the post deep in the pocket near the social rooms.

Midfield bulls Brendan Mason and James De Virgilio were into each other from the first bounce, with the opposing No 8s not taking abackward step. Mason ended up kicking three goals, including an insane running checksideinthe second quarter to be best-on-ground in defeat, although one couldn’t helpbut thinkjust how dire the situation would be for the home side if he wasn’t out there.

Thorpdale remained somewhat stagnant in the second term. Not evenabarrelfrom ruckman Gavin Low seemed enough to lift their spirits, as noticeably, not one of their three goals was really celebrated.

Come the main break, the Blues led by one point, and clicked into gear immediately upon the resumption, kicking agoal less than aminute in.

Mason was again the man for Boolarra however, and levelled the scores at 46 apiece after breaking clear from astoppage at the seven minute mark.

Astalemate ensued for the next 10 minutes, in whatwas afairlyunattractivedisplayasboth teams played luckydip justbombing the ball inside 50.

It wasn’t until agoal came from Thorpdale skipper,Travis Patten thatmomentumswung for the Blues,and theymade it two in as many minutes with anice piece of play from thenext centre bounce.

Midfielder JarrahBurgess was able to get on the fly and deliver to Lachlan Wallace, who went back andnailed the set shot from a45degree angle at the entrance end.

Wallace has joined the Blues this year, and the former Collingwood VFL player could just be one of the best kept secrets in the league.

He played alongside current Magpies captain Darcy Moore and Jamie Elliott in his younger days, and was reportedly very stifftonever get apromotion.

Boolarra kept pressing, but by now Thorpdale defender Jesse Patullo had really come to life and was clunking and rebounding most ballsthat came his way.

Potter came off at the 21 minute mark, squirting water into his left eye as soon as he got to the interchange.

Salerno also left the field during red time, clutching his right arm.Ifthe tough-as-nailsSalerno is leaving the field, it would have to be aserious

injury. Proving just how toughheis, Salerno came back on in thelastquarter. Aculthero for his very long dreadlocks, some laughter was elicited after his tennis-style headband came off in amarking contest.

With the marginonly 13 points at the last break, Mason urged his team for one more effort.

“This is on the midfielders this quarter,” he said, before remindinghis forwards that the ball had to be brought to ground to take Patullo out of the game.

Over in the Thorpdale huddle, Taylor instructed his forwards to play higher and spread the ground.

“Give us an extra target,” he said.

The Blues had adream start, goaling early after agood build up from halfback.

Taylor’s game plan worked to atee, with the ball going wide to ShannonPickering, who then pulled his kick to Wallace inboard, who drove it in deep.

In what surely left the Boolarra coaching staff fuming, no one punchedthe ballthrough for a

behind, leaving Cory Meloury to mark virtually on the goal line.

Meloury kicked his second ashort time later, effectively ending Boolarra’s chances.

The Demons fought valiantly, but when Jeremiah Jones kicked his fourth for the Blues, it was just about party time.

Jones was among the best for Thorpdale, along with Wallace, Patullo, Patten,Daniel Holt and Harrison Sinclair-Stanley,who very nearly took Mark of the Year in the last quarter.

Pickering was also productive, and stood headand-shoulders above the rest with hisdisposal by foot.

“He’s been really good for us this year. Different role for Shannon, great foot, Jesse Patullo as well, their foot skills were nearly the difference,” Taylor said speaking to the Express postgame. Such foot skills wouldn’tlook out of placein the Gippsland League, although it would be very difficult to get aPickering out of Thorpdale. His old Blues teammateand current Morwell coach, Boyd Bailey could surely find aspotfor him, but it is understood Bailey (to his absolute credit) has said he will never recruit out of Thorpdaleand risk potentially decimating the small club.

Taylor described the game as a“bitofagrind”, but was relatively pleased all things considered.

“Boolarra were good for the first quarter. We won afew good centre clearances to get ourselves going. We’ve got to get better at lowering our eyes but still happy to get the win,” he said.

For ateamnoone wasreally talkingabout during preseason,especially after the departure of gun midfielder,AnthonyRosatoand high profile coach in former Essendon player and Thorpy boy, Jason Winderlich, Thorpdale are suddenly equal-second on the ladder.

The Blues may have caught afew teams off guard, which could inadvertently play perfectly into Taylor’s hands; this being thesame Taylor who took Yinnar to apremiership from sixthon the ladder just three years ago.

By all accounts, their GrandFinal opponent’s that day, Newborough, had no idea how good eventual best-on-ground, Ned Marsh was.

The Blues might have asimilar player in Wallace. Despite awin-loss record of four-two, it is clear Thorpdale is missing some outside run.

The Blues are expected to have Heath Ferguson backafterthe King’s Birthdaybye to help alleviate part of thatissue, and still have afew playerpoints to play with should they wish to bring anyone in before clearances close.

Surely the bloke who played for Essendon has some names.

Weight of numbers eventually became too big a factor for Boolarra, who barely got the ball inside 50 during the last term.

Mason foundsupport from his brother Joel,along with Potter, Mason Porykali, Salerno and Riley Johnstone-McCloud.

“With the revolvingdoor at the selection table again seeing multiple changes the boys played a decent first half against an opposition that wasalso seemingly belowfull strength," Scott Berechree said.

"To Thorpdale's credit they played the full four quarters and found themselves deserved five goal winners.

"Tim Potter was in everything for us and the Mason boys too can hold their heads high in what was an otherwise disappointing second half fade out.

"If we are to return to the form that saw us start the year 3-0 we simply need to return to playing apositive style of footy and capitalising on our forward 50 entries."

Boolarra faces an absolute must-win against Hill End this Saturday before heading into abye.

Sing it: Thor pdale players Corey Melour y, Mitch Gorman, Jarrah Burgess andinjured skipper Joel Monger celebratevictor y.

Boot into it: Boolarra’sMitchLovison drives the ball toward goal

Photographs: Liam Durkin

NORTH GIPPSLAND

Ominous touch out at Tyers

FOOTBALL

NORTH GIPPSLAND

BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

THE gap's getting wider.

Three teams have shot out of the gatetosix wins through the first seven rounds in the NorthGippsland Football-Netball League, and it’s been done in quite dominant fashion by all three.

Last year produced the first instance since 2017 that ateam that didn’t finish top of the ladder went on to win the premiership -it’spossible that could occur again, with little separating Traralgon-Tyers United, Woodside and Heyfield.

While you could only pinpoint one or two games over the last two weeks that have truly produced some entertaining matchups, the Kangarooshostingthe Wildcats this week should wipe that dry slate clean.

 NO easy feat by any stretch.

Glengarry poured in an admirable performance against Heyfield at Fred King Oval, going down by 26 points,14.8 (92) to 9.12 (66)

Aslow start fromthe Magpies lessened theirchances of victory, as this year has proved any side has got to produce four quarters of football to knock off the Kangaroos.

Heyfield knocked in four goals to none in the first quarter, althoughGlengarry did see opportunities down forward during that period,shots went awry due to the intensity of the occasion and the pressure of their opponent.

A27tofour lead ballooned out to more than 40 points by the end of the first half relatively quickly.

The Kangaroos booted five of the seven goals in the secondterm to further push some doubt into the Magpies -who had been competitive and dangerous in most of their games played this season.

Glengarry wascoming off a127-pointshellacking of Gormandale the previous week.

While second-year Magpies coach, Alex Birmingham would have expected abetter output to start (at home nonetheless), his troops returned in different form.

The Kangaroos bombed the first major of the second half almost instantaneously. Glengarry then flipped the switch with four of the next five goals to bring the margin under 30 points.

However, Heyfield know what they’re doing, and took the sting out of the contest during adangerous period to protect their lead.

Momentum began to even itself out with scoring dropping in the final term.

The Magpies outscored their opponents the rest of the way home, but the much more mature Kangaroos managed to supplement Glengarry’s attack when it mattered most.

Heyfield has shown an ability unseen from them in recent years -towithstand runs and overcome them tenfold once its happened.

Also runningout of the gate for six straight wins, TTU has shown nothingtodoubters that they’ll be back at the pointy end of the season, this time with a79-point dismantling of rivals Yallourn Yallourn North at Tyers Recreation Reserve.

TTU has turned its home deck into a fortress over the courseofthe last three seasons, havingonly lost once (Round 1, 2024 to Woodside).

Coming off ahandful of comfortable weeks, winsof50-pluspoints in theprevious four games, amatchup againstthe Jets was expected by many, including the Bombers, to be adifferent task entirely.

Thatwas proved to be incorrect on the day, with TTU tearing apart YYN at every area of the ground, giving them little room to show signs -which produced a5.4 (34) to 0.2 (2) quarter time score the way of the Bombers.

While the Jets founditdifficult to transition downthe field, especiallyout of the backline with the ball down TTU’s attacking area for the majority of the first half, the Bombers wereslick with their ball movement whether it be via hand or foot.

It was astalemate second quarter with two goals apiece, but it was clear that YYN would have to jump several more gears if they were to ever give themselves achance going forward on the day.

Having said that, the halftime margin was still achievable at 35 points:7.7 (49) to 2.2 (14).

In return, it still wasn’t to be for the Jets, evendespite seeing more opportunities in their forward 50.

While YYN couldn’t grapple the ball in front of goal, TTU on the other end seemed to have glue on their mitts once they received the ball at the opposite end.

It was afour goal to none third quarter the way of the Bombers, and five to two in the final term.

Hayden Willaton was best for TTU with threegoals, followed by Jye Nielson, Michael Jacobsen,LiamMichie, William Curtainand Zach Kilgower.

RileyByrne,Jai Massese, Bailey Brown, Anthony Young, Lucas Fry and Elliott De Carli performed admirably for the Jets.

WhileTTU return to an easierstage facing Gormandale away, the Jets return home to play Rosedale (which afew weeks ago, might have seemed easier than now).

 ONE quarter was almost enough.

Fourth quarter heroicsfromChurchill almostgave them theirsecond win on the year, but Yarram sustained on home turf to come out on top by 10 points, 10.17 (77) to 10.7 (67).

Travelling to Yarram Recreation Reserve, it was always going to be tough task for the battling Cougars, but nothing was out of the realm of possibility.

The Demons banged on many scoring shots in the first term, however not entirely accurately,but stillahead5.5 (35) to 2.2 (14).

winners, followed by Griffin Underwood, Dylan Garnham,Kelly Griffiths, Liam Bentley and Kiefer Sutherland.

Bradley Brereton,Blake Whykes, Jye Williams, Joe Whykes, Mackenzie Blewett (on permit from Morwell), and Calen Hill all performed solidly for Churchill.  BACK in the Blue picture.

After not singing thesongthe firstthree weeks of the season,Rosedale has answered the call, winning their last three games, including at the weekend against Sale City, 11.9 (75) to 6.9 (45).

Out at Rosedale Recreational Reserve, the travelling Bulldogs were jumped out of the gates early with vigour, mounting scoreboard pressure (but not ceasing on all of their opportunities in front of goal) to lead by four points at quarter time.

The secondtermproducedflowing and back-and-forth football with each side essentially going goal-for-goal.

The Blues managed to reversethe first quarter deficit precisely to lead at halftime ever so slightly.

From there on out, it was all Rosedale.

Knowing what was at stake in amore than winnable occasion, the Blues kicked 5.4 (34) in the second half to run by Sale City’s 1.2 (8) to leapfrog the Bulldogs into the top four thanks to Sale City's odd position after splitting pointswith Gormandale in Round 1. Declan Barnett starredinthe victory, followed by Luke Stuckey, Blake Safstrom, Jay Diamond, Spencer Fox (three goals) and Rohan Diamond.

KadenMcCulloch, Daine McGuinness,Tom Bowman, Jaxsyn Whitehill, Lachlan Carman and Brodie Johnson were standouts in defeat for the Bulldogs.

After returning to finals after ablank period last season, Sale City really need to assert themselves the next few weeks to keep above the teams hovering around that fifth spot on the ladder.

 WHAT’S moretosay?Woodside are a handful.

The Wildcatswere simply too much for Gormandale, especially on their home turf, winning 25.17 (167) to 5.2 (32).

While some may have even predicted an even worse blowout, the Tigers showed life against the reigning premier.

Having said that, Woodside still trampled them in scoring pressure alone -with 12 scoring shots to one after quarter time and 18 to four at halftime.

Gormandale waskicking straightwith their limited opportunities inside attack, but they still faced a39-point deficit, which was not at all their worst at the end of two quarters during the season.

In returning after the main break, the Wildcats knew they themselves still needed to go up alevel, and so they did with eight goals to just one behind in thethird term to push their lead out to 91 points

JRogers FBlizzardLNapier CPoulton AHawkins KCrawford WOODSIDE 5.4 7.7 13.11 15.11 (101)

Woodside:

BNorman JApiata DDobson CRoberts.Gormandale: CRuach ZNolan LBastin RHarding BForrest MCropley

TTU3.1 6.3 10.5 14.7 (91) YYN3.2 7.6 8.7

Brayden Woodland collected the three votes for Heyfield, followed by Kyle Graham (six goals),Max Van Der Zwart, Dylan Patmore, Robert McMillan and Kodie Woodland.

Ewan Williams continues to be astable force for Glengarry, followed by LukeHealy, Callum Mitchell, Seth Healy (two goals), Michael Ryan and Jack Burgess (two).

While no one, including the club itself, is wanting to get too far ahead of themselves, the Kangaroos haven’t got out to a6-0 winloss start in over adecade.

 SEEING those Bombers fly up, up.

Yarram seemed to just be that itch better across the middle two quarters, booting five goals during that period to just two, giving them a45-point lead with aquarter spare.

Suddenlythough, it was acompletely different opponent who arrived into town.

The Cougars poured in asix-goalfinal term to storm back to within two goals, while the Demons managed just three behinds.

Fortunately for the home side, time was in their corner and Yarram snuck by for their third victory of the season.

Ben Mattern wasbest afield for the

Thatsamescoringload was repeated in thefinal term, while the Tigers tacked on one final major before the siren sounded. Jeremy Morgan, Michael O’Sullivan (nine goals), Josh Morgan, Ashton Janssen, Cooper Earles and Adam Janssen were standouts forWoodside.

Blake Hearn, Jarvis Kirk, Riley Hughes, Nicholas Millington, Flynn Roscoe and MalachiDillontriedtheirbest for Gormandale.

 COWWARR had the bye.

Fifty gamesina hurryfor Humphrey

FOOTBALL

AFL EXPORTS BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

THE ladder’s stretching out.

While parity is still high across the AFL competition, the last two premiers seem to be stamping their foot’s down as the best in the business. That stilldoesn’t mean someone else can't rise to the occasion at the right time -there’s still13 rounds of football left.

IN one of the most miraculousquarter burstsofthe season,Collingwood held onto topspotwith a15.18 (108) to 9.9 (63) takedown of North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium.

The Saturday night showcase displayed some highend and even football for three quarters, with the Kangaroos desperately trying to get over the line against an elite opponent after defeating Richmond the previous round.

North Melbourneeven held anine-pointlead at halftime,and only trailed by three points before the Magpies shot out of nowhere with an eight-goal final quarter to trample any hopes of aKangaroos victory.

Traralgon’s Tim Membreypoured in his second-best scoring output for the season with three goals and 10 possessions in the win.

 AFTER adominant start to the season, Hawthorn is beginning to look vulnerable with consecutive losses, this time in a14.9(93) to 8.12 (60) defeat at the hands of Brisbane at the MCG. Despite astrongfirst quarter where the Hawks held asmall lead, the Lions were simply too much of a handful, leading at every other turn of the game, and at their most during the last term.

Morwell’s Changkuoth Jiath was impressive again, stringing together asolid month of football, with 21 disposals and four marks.

 CELEBRATING the 50-game milestone in relatively quick time, Moe’s Bailey Humphrey and Gold Coast Suns came to Melbourne and dispatched St Kilda, 12.8 (80) to 8.13 (61).

Picking up their second win in Melbourne (after only winning once away from home last season), Marvel Stadium wrapped up the final game of Round 11.

Humphrey, surroundedbyfriends and family as he ran through his banner carrying his little nephew Tommy, in justthreeseasons has played in almost every game since being drafted in 2022, and has done so in spectacular fashion as the Suns push to play finals for the first time in the club's history. During an interview with AFL.com.au during the week, Humphrey articulated that he’s still scratching the surface of his capabilities.

Rosedale remembers

“100 per cent this is just the beginning and Iknow that. Ihave really high standards for myself and

I’mplaying some pretty good footy at the moment.

I’m just trying to make sure Idon’t get too happy with myself,” he said.

“I’m trying to stay down to earth and keep making sure Ican go to work on my craft.

“It’s only going to make me better. There’s plenty more to come hopefully.”

For the game itself, Gold Coast was simply the more talented side, even while not scoring agoal during the third quarter, the Suns were never in much trouble.

The Latrobe Valley contingent all left amark.

Fish Creek and former Moe footballer, Sam Flanders had 19 disposalsand five tackles, Morwell’sBen Ainsworth tacked on two goals and 15 touches, and Humphrey added 11 disposals and four tackles.

Mateship: Moe’s BaileyHumphrey broughtup his 50th AFL game at the weekend. His lifelongLatrobe Valleymates Rohan Demczuk, JackVan Den Dolder,Nathan Wheildon, BillyClaridgeand Jordan McMahon were thereinfull suppor t.

Photograph supplied

Spotlight on dangerous tackles

FOOTBALL NORTH GIPPSLAND

CONFUSION has been sensed among North Gippsland Football-Netball League clubs in regardstodangerous tackles after anumber of incidents in the earlier portion of the season.

Anumber of players suffered concussion during Round 3matches.This included Sale City's Jayden Allison, who was allegedly knocked out for close to two minutes in amatch against Cowwarr.

The Express is aware of amemo sent to the Sale Umpiring Association and NGFNL clubs in regards to the issue.

In correspondence seenbythe Express,the memo focussed on what was is and isn't deemed adangerous tackle, and what is and isn't a reportable dangerous tackle.

Part of the memo said that "dangeroustackles are covered by rule 18.7.2 Free Kicks -Rough Conduct, andwhile theruledoes not outline

what constitutes adangerous tackle, they are covered by the following guidelines;

 The tackled player's arms are pinned

 The tackled player's head is in a vulnerable position;

 The tackler uses excessive force;

 The tackle is performed with excessive rotation;

 The tackler lifts the player's legs into a horizonal or worse position."

If any two of these are met, then the tackle is considered to be dangerous.

The memo also made sure to note that atackle can still be deemed dangerous even if aplayer's head doesn't hit the ground, for example, with asling tackle.

Likewise, not every tackle that causes injury is reportable or adangerous tackle.

Attempts to reachthe NGFNL board for further comment were unsuccessful.

Salute to the umpiring fraternityfor attempting to clear up confusion as clubs move ahead in the season.

Backtogether: Rosedale 1965 premiership players DarylJeffries,John Bentley, Charlie Bye, Brian Farley and captain/coach, RodMorris.

Time flies: Rosedale Football-Netball Club celebrated the10year reunionofthe club’s2015Nor th Gippsland Football-Netball League senior premiership at theweekend. It is the Blues’most recent senior flag,and featured current West CoastCoach, Andrew McQualter

Legends: Sur viving membersofRosedale’s 1958 premiership team,Brian ‘Spike’Jones,Sam Bye andJohn Bentley. Photographs: FionaNicholson

Twodecades of reliable Power

FOOTBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

Two clubs united, the best we want to be.

THOSE words, taken from the Wonthaggi Power Football-Netball Club theme song, accurately summed up feelings of those who cametocommemorate the club’s20-yearanniversary this month.

The ‘new’ Wonthaggi wasformed by merging Wonthaggi Blues and Wonthaggi Rovers.

Blues competed in the GippslandLeague, and Rovers in the Alberton Football-Netball League.

Old rivalries were put aside for the betterment of footballand netballinthe area, which has since seen the Power united under one club banner. Past presidents, coaches and players joined their modern contemporaries at the Wonthaggi Club to reflect on thejourney, with anumberofspecial guests, and even historical items brought out for the occasion.

The relicthat is the oldBass ValleyFootball League premiership cup was unearthed, along with artefactsfrom Blues and Rovers correspondence detailing the steps taken to bring the two clubs together.

In the words of organisers “the clubrooms were moved here” to the Wonthaggi Club function room.

Attendees were also treated to adocumentary containinginterviews with club greats, and in trueWonthaggi fashion,president Peter Little ignitedcelebrations by declaring“let’s getthis party started.”

Since joining forces in 2005, Wonthaggi Power hasenjoyed many memorable and unforgettable moments, proudlyflying the football and netball flag in the now ‘one club town’.

Powerpreamble

ANY such thoughts of Wonthaggi Blues and Wonthaggi Rovers merging would have bordered on sacrilegious in aprevious era.

Put simply, the two clubs did not like each other. That’s just the way it was.

DavidBeaumont, who became the inaugural co-president of the merged club, and was aBlues man previously,saidWonthaggi wasa town divided depending on football ties.

“I’d leave my office at 2pm on aFriday afternoon to go andsell raffle tickets in the street. You’d go into abutchershop -‘f**k off, you’re aBlues bloke’. You couldn’t get sponsorship. There was animosity when it came to football,” he said.

“When it wasn’t football, everything wasfine. When we played each other, you’d end up down ‘The Zoo’ (one of the pubs) and there would always be ablue.

“You had mates playing against mates,schoolkids, one wenttothe tech, one wenttothe high, they were mates, and they’d be blueing.”

Fellowinaugural co-president, Geoff Jones (of the Rovers) described it as “unnecessary animosity”.

Theold Bass Valley league, which had a40-year run from 1955 to 1995, became colloquially known as ‘Bash Valley’ for obvious reasons.

Rovers won eight Bass Valley flags and Blues six.

Thepremiershiponlyleft Wonthaggi oncebetween 1991-95 in the league’s final days.

Most Bass Valley clubs joined the Alberton Football-Netball League following alocal football restructure that led to Bass Valley winding up. Blues got out ayear early, joining the major Gippsland League in 1995.

With the two Wonthaggi clubs now in different leagues, the local rivalryhad something of achance to subside.

No one was to know, but it was the start of a 10 year cooling off period that eventually led to the merger.

Tipping point

WITH Blues in the Gippsland League and Rovers staying local, it soon became apparent one town could not support two clubs.

Necessitatinglonghaul trips in the major league took atoll, while issues closer to home meant the writing was on the wall.

“It got to apoint where Rovers were struggling for numbersfor reserves. We were struggling because away games started at quarter past 12; some of our reserves were still working on Saturday mornings, so if we played at Sale, Maffra or Bairnsdale, they couldn’t make it,” Beaumont said.

“I can remember playing seconds one year Iwas coaching the Blues twos. We had eight players for the twos, coming off the ground we were putting jumpers on these thirds kids, that’s how difficult it was.”

For Rovers, financialissues threatened to run the club into the ground.

“From our point of view, numbers weren’t so muchanissue as the money thatwewere pouring into it,”Jones said

“The gamewould finish,and those paid players would climb into theircars and you’d see your money driving down the highway.

“Wewere renovating houses, all sortsofprojects to raise money, from abusiness point of view Ijust didn’t see it sustainable.

“Bearinginmind the town was supplying players to two Wonthaggi teams, plus Dalyston, plus Kily (Kilcunda-Bass), we were spread pretty thin. You had to buy players in to be competitive if you were serious.

“You had two teams training on the one ground (at Wonthaggi RecreationReserve), it was agame of football on there every single week.”

Together as one

WHILE mergers and amalgamations are often drawn out political sagas, Jones said Wonthaggi’s was fairly seamless.

Talk of aWonthaggi merger had done the rounds for years previously, and most involved could see it simply had to occur.

“It had been talked about, to me it was agreat idea, and clearly David felt the same,” Jones said.

“I was simplylooking at it ‘this is agood thing for footy’. We got some momentum, Dave’s mob were on board, my mob were very quickly on board. It made perfect sense.”

The merged club took on the moniker ‘Power’, in honour of the state’s mining history, and in keeping with Jones’ savvy business sense, simply adopted the colours of Port Adelaide Power in the AFL in order to purchase “off the shelf” jumpers.

Just like Port Adelaide as well -acompetition was held to select aclub theme song.

Officials settledonatune to the NorthMelbourne song, starting with the lyric “We are Wonthaggi, the Power football team”.

When asked how difficult it was to convince those rusted onto either Rovers or Blues, Jones said: “not hard at all as it turned out.”

There was howeverone stickingpoint -the merged club was to play in the AFNL.

“I wouldn’t ever have been able to get the merger over the hurdle if we didn’t stay in Alberton,” Jones revealed.

In then out

IF two clubs in one town was never going to be sustainable,two clubscombined competingina

district leaguewas probably never goingtolast long either.

Wonthaggi Power spent five years in the AFNL, making the Grand Final in every season and winning three premierships.

Such wastheir dominance, then AFNL-club Yarram refused to play the Power in 2008, ayear after the Demons defeated Wonthaggi in the Grand Final.

Alwaysones to stand up for what theybelieve in, the Demons maintained theirstancewas in supportofsmallerclubs, and eventually ledto the Victorian Country Football League ordering the Power out of Alberton and into the Gippsland League for the 2010 season.

Long-time Gippsland League secretary, Brian McKenzie recalls aslightlybizarre time.

“Basically the other clubs were saying ‘you’re too powerful,wedon’t want you, you’re going to break the whole joint up’, so they (Wonthaggi) were a little bit in limbo,” he said.

“I went overwith ChrisSoumilas (former league president) to areallypacked meeting one night. My first task wastoconvince them that I’mnot astoogefor the VCFL. We put acase as to ‘if you want somewhere to go, we’re happy to have you’.

“So we left that meeting, and they debatedit, and it was probably two weeks after that they made the move.”

McKenzie believes Wonthaggi made the right decision.

“Certainly for the sake of football in that area it was the best move for that community,” he said.

“People there who would just want to go back to the old days, but beating everyone easily, and you’re from the biggest town and you’ve got the one force out of town with all the resources, well then you’re going to win easily, and in fact you should be winning easily.”

Powering on

SINCEjoining in 2010,Wonthaggi has becomeone of the strongest clubs in the Gippsland League. The Power boast one of the best surfaces in the competition, which has been used for VFL games in recent seasons.

Wonthaggi has also featured heavily in finals across football and netball grades.

On-fieldf ort unes have generally refle cted resources around town at the time.

The Power made the Gippsland League Grand Final in 2014 at atimewhenthe desalination plant was in full swing and local work plentiful, and again in 2023 with favourite son and Collingwood premiership player, Jarryd Blair at the helm.

Somenotable names haveworn the teal colours, including past AFL players Isaac Chugg, Nathan Brown and Earl Shaw, and currentWestCoast playerJackHutchinson, whowas takeninthe 2023 midseason draft.

Amonglocal legends, seven time best-and-fairest winner and former captain Aiden Lindsay would have to rate among the club's greatest.

Of all the great moments in the last 20 years however, the club's most memorable is surely the miracle 2014 senior preliminary final.

Playing Sale, the Power came back from 45 points down at three quarter time.

While there was many flags on display at the 20-year reunion, therewas one notableabsence -a Gippsland League senior premiership.

Wonthaggi are giving themselves every chance to make this the year, and are currently on top of the senior ladder.

Whatever happens, those who were instrumental in forming the club will have reason to be proud regardless.

“It’s done exactly what we wanted it to do,” Beaumont said.

Dazed: Surely Wonthaggi’sgreatest moment in the Gippsland League. Troy Harley, Chris Wylie and Shannon Bray can hardlybelieve their luck afterwinning the 2014 Gippsland League Preliminar yFinalafter coming backfrom45 pointsdownatthree quar tertime File photograph

Leaders: All presidents of Wonthaggi PowerFootball-Netball Clubgathered forthe club’s20-year celebration. Pictured is David Beaumont, PeterLittle,Geoff Jones, RobTesorieroand BrettTessari Photograph: Liam Durkin

Saturday,May 31

ABC (2) SBS (3)

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R) 1.40 Picasso. (Mds, R) 2.40 TSO Strauss’ Four Last Songs. 4.10 The Piano. (PG, R) 5.10 Landline. (R) 5.40 Australian Story: Missing Pieces –Sue-Yen Luiten. (R)

6.10 Father Brown. (PGav) Asupposed vampire strikes in the village.

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

7.30 Call The Midwife. (Ma) In his new role,Cyril faces his toughest challenge yet. The pupil midwives

8.30 Midsomer Murders. (PG, R)

After the opening of asculpture park in Angel’sRise is marred by murder,Bar naby and Nelson suspect amysterious locket recovered from the scene of the crime may help catch the killer

10.05 Bergerac. (Ml, R) Bergerac and Arthur

10.50 Reunion. (Mlv,R)Brennan and Carly head to his school reunion. 11.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 10.00 MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 11.00 Children’sPrograms. 6.40pm Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Chopped Junior 8.55 The Piano. 9.50 Fresh OffThe Boat. 10.35 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 1.40pm Undiscovered Vistas. 2.30 Nula. 3.00 Living Black. 3.30 Nganampa Anwer nekenhe. 4.00 Kai Time: Time To Eat. (Premiere) 4.35 Strait To The Plate. 5.05 6.00 Moko. 6.30 News. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Tassie Tiger On The Rocks. 8.30 MOVIE: Dark Age. (1987, MA15+) 10.10 Late Programs.

6am Mor ning Programs. 12.30

ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Gymnastics. Inter national Gymnastics. Highlights. 3.30 Gymnastics. FIG Artistic Apparatus World Cup Series. Highlights. 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Girod’Italia. Stage 19. Highlights. 5.30 Indochina War: The Untold Story.(w)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar: Passion. (Mal, R) Elizabeth Taylor challenges the studio system.

8.25 Secrets Of Britain’sHistoric

(Cliveden And Polesden Lacey)

An exploration of the historic mansions Cliveden House in Berkshire and Polesden Lacey in Surrey

9.30 1968: AYear Of War, Turmoil And Beyond. (M, R) Takes alook at events of 1968.

10.25 Guillaume’sFrench Atlantic. (R) 11.25 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav,R) 4.00 JSchwanke’sLife In Bloom. (R) 4.30 Bamay.(R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6.00 NBC Today 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Mor ning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Lord

Race Day and Derby Day 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Americas: The West Coast. (PG) Takesalook at the west coast. 8.00 MOVIE: Jurassic Park III. (2001, Mv,R)Ascientistispersuaded by acouple to join them on a inhabited by dinosaurs. Sam Neill, William H. Macy,Téa Leoni. 9.50 MOVIE: Safe House. (2012, Mlv,R)After being tasked with looking after afugitive in asafe house, aCIA agent must defend himself and his charge. Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds. 12.15 Nurses. (Ma, R) Sydney’s bustling nightlife wreaks chaos. 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’sAcademic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGa, R)

6am Mor ning Programs. 12.00 Aust. 12.30 Find My Country House Australia. (PG, R) 1.00 Great Australian Detour.(R) 1.30 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv,R) 2.00 Garden Gurus Moments. (R)

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel &Ryan. (PGl) Hosted by former The Block contestants Rachel and Ryan.

8.30 MOVIE: Spectre. (2015, Mv,R) Acrypticmessage from James Bond’spast sends him on atrail of a sinister organisation. Daniel Craig, Christoph Waltz, Léa Seydoux.

11.30 MOVIE: Death Wish V. (1994, MA15+lv,R)Charles Bronson. (R)

1.50 My Way. (R) 2.00 The Incredible Jour ney Presents. (PG) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGal, R) Follows the work of elite lifeguards in charge of safety at one of the world’s busiest beaches. When bluebottles swarm at Bondi, Harries devises amagicaltreatment for the stings. 7.00 Soccer A-League

11.00 Elsbeth. (Mdv,R)When ayoung man is found dead in his car, Elsbeth visits the holistic wellness centrehe’djust left and begins to suspect its charismatic founder 12.00 FBI (Mav,R)The team discovers the kidnappers of ayoung girl have used her as leverage to carry out amajor explosives heist. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power Religious program. 6am

7TWO (72, 62)

WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show 11.05 Hoarders. 2.25pm News. 2.30 WorldWatch. 4.30 Over The Black Dot. 5.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. 6.40 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Girod’Italia. Stage 20. 12.40am Miniseries: Sirius. 1.30 Mass Shooting USA. 2.35 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 10.40 Australian Rules. (2002, Madlsv) 12.30pm The Invisible Fight. (2023, Mav,Estonian) 2.40 December Boys. (2007, PGlnsv) 4.40 Sissi: The Fateful Years. (1957, PG, German) 6.40 Sidonie In Japan. (2023, PGans, French, Japanese, English) 8.30 Seven. (1995, MA15+av) 10.55 Late Programs.

9GEM (92,81)

6am Home Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes And Gardens. 11.00 Harry’sPractice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. Noon Escape To The Country 3.00 Better Homes And Gardens. 4.00 Escape To TheCountry 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The YorkshireVet. 8.30 Escape To The Country 11.30 The YorkshireVet. 12.30am My Greek Odyssey 1.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 2.05pm MOVIE: San Demetrio, London. (1943, PG) 4.05 MOVIE: The Secret Of Santa Vittoria. (1969, PG) 7.00 Rugby Queensland Reds vs Fijian Drua. 9.30 Super 9.45 MOVIE: Sicario. (2015, MA15+) 12.10am Late Programs.

6am Mor ning

Programs. Noon Australia ReDiscovered. 12.30 Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Motor Racing. Shannons SpeedSeries. Round 3. Day 1. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Football. VFL. Round 10. Frankston vSandringham. 10.00 AFL Saturday Rewind. 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Late Programs. 9GO! (93, 82)

6am Morning Programs. 2.40pm Jeopardy! UK. 3.40 YoungSheldon. 4.40 MOVIE: Penguin Bloom. (2020, PG) 6.30 French Open Tennis Pre-Show 7.00 Tennis. French Open. Midnight Young Sheldon. 12.30 The Originals. 2.30 Jeopardy! UK. 3.30 Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Indianapolis 500. H’lights. 4.30 Pokémon: XYZ. 4.50 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.”

Sunday,June1

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 The World This Week.(R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.35 The Piano. (PG, R) 3.35 Grand Designs UK. (PGl, R) 4.40 The Kimberley.(Final, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6.30 Compass: The Wayside Weddings. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Piano. The pianists play in the heart of Sydney’sChinatown.

8.30 Bergerac. (Ml) There’s abreakthroughinthe search for Cate’sphone, until Bergerac’sworld is shaken.

9.15 Reunion. (Mlv) Christineiscloser to theanswers she seeks.

10.15 MOVIE: VanDiemen’sLand. (2009, MA15+alv,R)Oscar Redding.

12.00 Take 5With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 1.35 Grantchester.(Mav, R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Mor ning Programs. 9.00 DD India News Hour 10.00 First Australians. (PG, R) 10.55 Going Places. (R) 12.00 APAC Weekly 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 Nippers. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Girod’Italia. Stage 20. Highlights. 5.30 Indochina War: The Untold Story.(PG)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 London: 2,000 Years Of History (PG, R) 8.25 Queens Of Ancient Egypt: Queen Tiye. (PGa, R) Takesalook at the Egyptian Queen Tiye. 9.25 Into The Gobi Desert With Nick Knowles. (PG, R) 10.15 Hindenburg: The Cover Up. (PGa, R) 11.10 MOVIE: Memory Film: AFilmmaker’sDiary.(2023, Maln) 12.40 24 Hours In Emergency.(PGa, R) 2.30 Australia Uncovered: Our African Roots. (PGa, R) 3.25 JSchwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 3.55 Bamay.(R) 4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 4.35 Children’sPrograms. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh OffThe Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Mor ning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show Pre-game coverage of the match. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 12. Melbour ne vStKilda.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 12. West Coast vGeelong. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking alook back at allthe action from the game. 11.00 7NEWS Spotlight. 12.00 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv,R)Alocal drug lord discovers Wozniak’ssecret.

1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Hosted by Greg Grainger

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.

4.00 NBC Today

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

TEN (10, 5)

6am Mor ning Programs. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show.(PG) 12.00 Wide World Of Sports. (PG) 1.00 Fish Forever.(R) 1.30 The Pet Rescuers. (PG, R) 2.00 Taronga: Who’sWho In The Zoo. (PGam, R) 3.00 Ski Rescue Down Under.(PGl, R) 4.00 David Attenborough’sFrozenPlanetII. (PGa, R) 5.00 News. 5.30 Postcards. (PG) 6am Mor ning Programs. 10.00 10 Minute

6.00 9News Sunday

6.00 The Sunday Project. Alookatthe day’snews. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. Twelve contestants must create adishfeaturing butter 8.10 Fake. he has been navigating drama with his unstable ex-wife. Birdie ridesalongwiththe All Angels soup van for astory 9.10 FBI. out how someone accessed ahighly securebuilding after aCEO is killed by atargeted explosion inside his penthouse. 11.10 The Sunday Project. (R) Alook at the day’snews. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am Morning Programs. 12.10pm FigureSkating. ISU World C’ships. Part four 1.45 Jeopardy! 3.50 Fashionista. 4.00 WorldWatch. 4.30 PBS Washington Week. 5.00 Going Places. 6.00 History’sGreatest Of All-Time With Peyton Manning. 6.50 Abandoned Engineering. 8.40 Science Fiction Revolution. 9.40 The Amber Room. 10.30 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm Rugby League. Qld Murri Car nival. Men’s. GFs. Rpt. 3.10 Football. First Nations Indigenous Football Cup. Men’s. SA All-Stars vQld Balla Boys. Rpt. 4.45 Bamay 5.00 Soh Presents: Generations And Dynasties.

6am Morning Programs. 8.35 Remi Nobody’sBoy.(2018, PGav,French) 10.35 The Tracker.(2002, Mav) 12.25pm The Last Castle. (2001, Malsv) 2.50 First Cow.(2019, PGalv) 5.05 The Band’sVisit. (2007, PGls, Arabic, English, Hebrew) 6.40 Weekend At Ber nie’s. (1989, PGadlsv) 8.30 Constantine. (2005, MA15+h) 10.45 Late Programs.

7.00 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy (Retur n, PG) 8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.40 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Mv) Piers Morgan speaks with Christopher Porco. 10.40 Footy Fur nace. (Mlv) 11.40 9News Late. 12.10 The First 48. (Ma) 1.00 Destination WA.(PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa) 4.30 Fish Forever.(R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today

9GEM (92,81) 7TWO (72, 62) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Jeopardy! UK. 3.00 MOVIE: Waiting For The Light. (1990, PG) 5.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: 17 Again. (2009, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: American Hustle. (2013, M) 10.20 MOVIE: The Adjustment Bureau. (2011, M) 12.25am Gotham. 1.20 Arrow 2.10 Young Sheldon. 2.35 Jeopardy! UK. 3.30 Motorway Cops. 4.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Motor Racing. Shannons SpeedSeries. Round 3. Day 2. 2pm Fishy Business. 2.30 Al McGlashan’sFish’n With Mates. 3.00 The Mightiest. 4.00 Deep Water

Monday,June2

ABC (2)

(3)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Midsomer Murders. (PGv,R) 11.30 The Art Of... (Ml, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 3.00 ClaireHooper’sHouse Of Games. (PG, R) 3.30 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.00 ABite To EatWith Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R) 6am Mor ning Programs. 12.10 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC WorldNews Tonight. 1.00 PBS News Weekend. 1.30 Al Jazeera News Hour 2.00 Barunga Or Bust. (PG, R) 3.00 Travel Shooters. (PGl) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Girod’Italia. Stage 21. Highlights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Mor ning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon.

6.30 ClaireHooper’s House Of Games.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Australian Story: Nick Cave With Leigh Sales. (R) 8.30 Four Cor ners. Investigative jour nalism program.

9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser

9.35 Picasso. (Ma) Picasso creates some of his greatest work during the war

10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 Planet America. (R) 11.35 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (Final, R) 12.05 Love Your Garden.(R) 12.50 Long Lost Family (PG, R) 1.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s

Programs. 6.20pm Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.10 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars:Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 TBA. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Dance Life. (Premiere) 9.35 TBA. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm Big Sky Girls. 2.00 Unsettled. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 4.35 Waabiny Time. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Road Open. 5.30 The 77 Percent. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Undiscovered Vistas. 7.35 Who Do YouThink YouAre? 8.35 Living Black. 9.30 The Grey Line. 10.00 OffCountry 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Stockholm With Michael Portillo: Stockholm 3. (PG) Michael Portillo cleanses Stockholm’sfrozendepths.

8.25 Bettany Hughes: Treasures of Bulgaria. (PGa, R) Professor Bettany Hughes explores Bulgaria, whereamosaic of cultures has generated acolourful history

9.20 Inside Windsor Castle. (PG, R) Alook at the history of Windsor Castle. 10.15 SBS World News Late. (MA15+v)

11.35 Kin. (Madlsv,R)

2.30 Living With The Boss. (PG, R) 3.20 JSchwanke’sLife In Bloom. (R) 4.40 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am Morning Programs. 8.00 MLS. Matchday 15. Seattle vMinnesota. 10.30 WorldWatch 11.00 DW Euromaxx. 11.50 Small Business Secrets. 12.25pm WorldWatch 12.55 TheMovie Show 2.25 Wine Lovers’ Guide. 3.00 WorldWatch. 5.10 Forged In Fire: Best Of. 6.00 Alone Germany.(New) 7.10 Jeopardy! 7.35 News. 7.40 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 10.20 Sublime. (2022, Mls, Spanish) 12.15pm Just Believe. (2018, Ml, Italian) 2.10 Sidonie In Japan. (2023, PGans, French, Japanese, English) 4.00 Malcolm. (1986, PGlsv) 5.35 The Farewell. (2019, PGal) 7.30 Unruly.(2022, Masv,Danish, Swedish) 10.00 Suffragette. (2015, Malv) Midnight Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away (PG)

7.30 Farmer Wants AWife. (PG) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski.

8.50 9-1-1. (Retur n, Mav) Atrailer with millions of bees crashes on the streets of Los Angeles, unleashing aswarm.

10.50 The Agenda Setters. (R) Ateam of trusted and respected footy voices tackles the biggest topics in the AFL world.

11.50 To Be Advised.

12.50 You, Me And The Apocalypse. (Maln) Jamie and Dave face obstacles.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. The latest news, sport and weather 5.30 Sunrise. News, sport and weather

6am Morning Programs. 10.30 Better Homes. 1pm The Great Australian Doorstep. 1.30 Australia’s Best Backyards. 2.00 Weekender 2.30 The YorkshireVet. 3.30 Harry’sPractice. 4.00 Medical Emergency 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Doc Martin. 8.30 Shetland. 11.10 Late Programs.

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy (PG) Teamswork (Ml) Ateam of footy experts tackles the AFL’s big issues and controversies.

9.45 Players. (Ml) Alook at all the AFL news. 10.45 9News Late.

11.15 Aussie Road Train Truckers. (PGl) 12.05 Gypsy Rose: Life After Lockup. (Mal) 1.00 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa) 4.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today

9GEM (92,81)

6am Morning

7TWO (72, 62) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Matrix. (1999, M) 11.15 Seinfeld. 12.15am Young Sheldon. 12.40 Below Deck. 1.40

Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Midsomer Murders. 2.00 Antiques Roadshow 2.30 MOVIE: The Frightened City.(1961, PG) 4.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow 6.30 French Open Tennis Pre-Show 7.00 Tennis. French Open. Day 9. Midnight Late Programs.

9GO! (93, 82)

3.30 Addams Family 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Watersport. Offshore Superboats. 2.30 Duck Dynasty 4.00 Cities Of The Underworld. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 The Agenda Setters. 8.00 Outback Opal Hunters. 9.00 Gem Hunters Down Under 10.00 Appalachian Outlaws. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer 6.30 The Project. Alook at the day’snews. 7.30 MasterChef Australia. Abatch of 23 former contestants retur ns. 8.40 Have YouBeen Paying Attention? (Malns) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.40 Taskmaster Australia. (Ms, R) Comedy game show featuring comedians performing aseries of tricky tasks. Hosted by TomGleeson. 10.50 10’sLate News. 11.15 The Project. (R) 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mor nings.

Tuesday,June3

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6am Mor ning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC WorldNews Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Reset. (Mn, R) 3.00 The Weekly Football Wrap. (R) 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Going Places. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Aust Story.(R) 10.30 Compass. (PG, R) 11.00 If You’reListening. (R) 11.20 Gruen. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Call The Midwife. (Ma, R) 2.00 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 3.00 House Of Games. (R) 3.30 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family (PG, R) 5.00 ABiteToEat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6.30 ClaireHooper’sHouse Of Games.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. (Premiere)

8.50 Dino Apocalypse With David Attenborough: The New Evidence. (R) Presented by Sir David Attenborough.

Books That Made Us. (Mlv, R) 12.50 Love Your Garden. (R) 1.35 Long Lost Family.(PG,R) 2.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.35 Parkinson In Australia. (PGa, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Who Do YouThink You Are? Gina Chick. (Ma)

8.30 Insight. Explores how best to navigate family and money

9.30 Dateline: Bor nBig. Presented by Kumi Taguchi. 10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Living Black. (R) 11.30 The Point. (R) 12.30 Dance Rites 2023. (PG, R) 2.05 Enemy Of The People. (Mlv,R) 3.45 Living With The Boss. (R) 4.35 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.20pm Bluey 6.30 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.00 Supertato. 7.10 Dino Dex. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars:Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 TBA. 8.35 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Animals Up Close With Bertie Gregory 9.25 To Be Advised. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Mor ning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 2.20 Border Security: Inter national. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away (PG)

7.30 Farmer Wants AWife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski. 8.50 Doc. (Ma) Sonya wrestles with treating aman from herpastand must rely on Amy to help her 9.50 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 10.50 Accused. (Mav) Awidow gets mixed up in shady dealings. 11.50 Autopsy USA: Bob Crane. (MA15+av,R) 12.50 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 Today

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. (PG) The 10 teams create anew toy 8.45 To Be Advised. (Ml) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues. 10.45 9News Late.

11.15 The Equalizer (Mav,R)

TEN (10, 5)

12.05 Find My Country House Australia. (PG, R) 12.35 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 The Garden Gurus. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’sVoice Of Victory.(PGa) 4.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today 6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer 6.30 The Project. Alook at the day’snews. 7.30 MasterChef Australia. Abatch of

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 12.05pm My Zoe. (2019, Mals) 2.00 Weekend At Ber nie’s. (1989, PGadlsv) 3.50 Little Nicholas’ Treasure. (2021, PGv,French) 5.45 The Importance Of Being Ear nest. (2002) 7.30 The Professor And The Madman. (2019, Mav) 9.55

8.35 Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown. 10.15 Dark Side Of The Cage. (Premiere) 11.10 Late Programs.

Revisiting Victoria’sdarkpast

By STEFAN BRADLEY

FROM writer /director Andrea James, a Gunaikurnai/Yorta Yorta woman, is anew play,

The Black Woman of Gippsland -astory of Victoria's dark pastthat is in direneed of revisiting, told as a thrilling modern mystery that unfoldswith beauty, tragedy and rebellion.

Performances will be held at the Southbank Theatre in Melbourne and continue until May 31. It's an ensemble, but the story is centred around the character of Jacinta.

Traditional dance and song have been incorporated into the show.

In the play, awoman is tossed ashore from the sea,bedraggled and lost. Acentury-and-a-half later, another finds herself diving deep into the truth behind alingering legend.

Jacinta'sfamily is drivingher up the wall and heracademic career is floundering, but amongst the books, something doesn't feel right about the story history tells.

The myths and half-truths thatsurroundthe figure of a'whitewoman' said to have lived among the Gunaikurnai people of Gippsland in the 1840s are so abundant it seems the reality is out of reach. But Jacinta is determined to unearththe truth for

herself and her Gunaikurnai family no matter the twists and turnsthe journey might take her on.

"Jacinta is asurvivor. Atragic thing happened to her mother and that encouraged her to become an academic, and to uncover and find answers on this particular event that she knows has happened,"

Ms James told the Express

"It's aclassic sort of quest character story. She goesthroughthese big emotional, traumatic, historical events in order to understand and grow from it and become abetter person."

The cast includes Chenoa Deemal as Jacinta, along with Ursula Yovich, Zach Blampied and Ian Bliss.

There are different accounts of the existence of the white woman of Gippsland. One newspaper article from The TraralgonRecord in 1912 suggested she was once onboard avessel called the Britannia, which was alleged to have wrecked on the Ninety Mile Beach in 1841.

As written on Gippsland and East Gippsland Aboriginal Cooperative's (GEGAC) website: "The way some written histories tell it, in the 1840s a rumour began spreading through white settler communities about the existence of awhite woman that was being held against her will by agroup of Aboriginal people at Port Albert."

Ms James said, "I've been reallyexploring in particular Aboriginal storiesand workingwith other Aboriginal people for 20 years now. I've written acouple of plays based on my grandfather's country.But this time around,whenIgot the commission at the Melbourne Theatre Company, Ireally wanted to do something that connected me to my grandmother's country."

"And I'd heard about this story about the legend of the white woman of Gippsland. It's something that Iheard about when Iwas quite ayoung girl at about 11 or 12-years-old… Ijust jumped at the opportunity to delve alot deeper into the story, but also to have achancetoconnect and reconnect with my grandmother'scountry.

"I'm actually surprised that nobody you know had agoatthis before, because it is such afascinating story."

Shesaidher "ultimate goal" would be to bringthe play to Gippsland, and she and the cast spent time in the region as they developed the performance.

The play is not apiece that will tell the audience whetherthe white woman of Gippslandisamyth or

existed as ahistorical fact, but Ms James researched as much as possible about the subject when she started work on the show. This includes through diary and newspaper archives and speaking to as many Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people that knew something about the subject. "It's areally tragic story. We don't know whether the white woman ever existed, actually, but what we do know is that these two Gunaikurnai people were imprisoned and died as aresult. Dispossession and massacres also took placeduring this timeand as aresult of the search for this white woman at this point who may or may not exist," Ms James said.

Scene: TheBlackWoman of Gippsland rehearsals with Chenoa Deemal and Zach Blampied.

Thought process: Writer anddirector Andrea James at rehearsals with Brent Watkins. Photographs: JacintaKeefe

Look at all aspect of Coalition split

DAVIDLittleproud,while initiating the LNP split may have actuallydone the Liberal Party of Sussan Ley afavour.

It will leave the Libs free to develop sensible science-based policies without having to account to the inbuilt reticence of the Nationals to acknowledge human induced climate change and their support for fossil fuels and their hatred of renewable energy as exemplified in the nuclear power policy.

It was these compromises that helped Labor to winsomany previously safe Liberal seats in suburban electorates. Somethingthat the Nats leaders don’t seem to have realised.

With no Coalition agreement in place by the next election, the Liberals will be free to run candidates against sitting Nationals members and it is not hard to see that moderate Coalition voters would flocktoaLiberalcandidate rather than aNationals candidate if theLibs come up with the right policies to fight climatechangeand deliver aproper roll out of renewable energy that brings wealth to rural communities.

If that happens, then the Nats will be left to compete with One Nation for the votes of rightwing hardlinersand climate changedeniers, a demographic whichisaging and dying off. Even more so, when more of the population are noting the effects on insurance premiums due to more severe and more frequent climate induced natural disasters. Witnessthe currentfloodingaround Taree -the worst on record.

So Litteproud’s gambit might be the gift that Sussan Ley reluctantly accepts for now, but could be her salvation in the long run. Regaining Teals seats may be possible as well.

Dan Caffrey Traralgon

What some votedfor

LAST week Iattended amassive rally in Melbourne organisedbythe United Firefighters Union (UFU) and others to protest against the changes made to the Fire Services Property Levy by the state Labor government. Effective from July 1, 2025, this tax will significantly increase and place further financial burdens on all of our state's ratepayers. How will it affect you?

Firstly, it's avariable fee, based on the value of your home plus afixed charge ($136) +amedian liability fee ($254).

If you look at your last rate notice, you'llfind that this tax was calculated at the old rate of 8.7 cents per $1000 of your house's valuation. Under the new fee structure, this will now almost double to 17.3 cents.Sofor atypical $400,000 Latrobe Valley house, your levy will increase from $361.40 to $459.20, or an extra $97.80. For abusiness, the levy is more savage, doubling from 66.4c to $1.33c, whilst for the farm, it will go from 28.7c to 71.8c. To soften the blow, the government have stated that all CFA and SES volunteers will be entitled to arebate of thistax.Tobeeligible however, a person needs to have been amember for at least the last12months. You can't have takenleave and you can only claim one rebate. Thus, if you wereaCFA volunteerliving in your ownhome, but running abusiness elsewhere, you could only claim arebate on one of these, not both. The tax is expected to extract an additional $2 billion for the cash strapped Allan government.Whilst the website assures us that 100 per centofthis will be invested back into fire and emergency services, organisations such as the UFU are doubtful. Consider also federal Labor recently announced Unrealised Capital Gains Tax which would mean that if that $400,000 house in the example above was to increase in value over 12 months, besides having to pay an even higher Emergency Services levy to the state government, they would also be liable to pay tax on that unrealisedgain via the IncomeTax system. Iwonder how the 20,000 people who voted Labor at the last federal election across Gippsland feel about this?

Greg Hansford One Nation candidate for Gippsland 2025

Masked reality

ICONTINUE to be bemused by reports that increasing the frequency of trains running on the Gippsland Line, from one hour to 40 minutes, seems to represent amassive improvement in services. Let's be clear: what would represent amassive improvement in services is a30to40minute reduction in train journey times, and amuch faster trip throughMelbourne suburbs, rather thanthe snail crawl which we have to suffer at the moment. Increasing train frequency does nothing at all for me if journey times do not improve.

Graham Bridge Morwell

Collins or Webster's?

THANK YOU Thomas Quinn, ('Teals are not independent', LatrobeValley Express Opinion 21/05), for your ongoing, but certainly irrelevant, so

unnecessary, campaign on who or what constitutes an independent,orTeal, for in the end, who cares?

Only obsessive conservatives.

IunderstandDeb Leonard, an independent because she is unaligned with apolitical party, is well funded and by whom, as Iamsure do those whovotedfor her, but do youthink it mattered, or should have mattered to them?

They're not stupid, they voted because of awide range of acceptable views and policies, to the extent that one week after the election, she was still "in the frame" for the seat. And, sadly for you, she'll probablygoagaininthreeyears,againasan independent!

And if the Deb Leonard campaign spent half a million dollars, (you know that, do you, andagain, who cares?), can you tell us how much the Libs spent?

So, Thomas, Iand others don't need to provide "relevant, reasoned and intelligentinterpretation" to satisfy your semantic obsession with one candidate, and her descriptor.

But in the end,since apparently I"play semantic word games", and judging by your Australian Constitution commentary, you're awordsmith or you've swallowed athesaurus,give yourselfa pat on the back for being not only "true", but also "correct", then use your dictionary again to look up "tautology".

John Duck

Trafalgar

Labor lessons

YES Mr Duck, Ihad my say at the elections but I was one of many who were ignored by those who believed the promises of the Labor Party ('Record says otherwise', LVE Opinion, 21/05). But they will learn.

Idisagreewith Phillip Edward’sletter ('The Pauline Hanson delusion', 21/05) -One Nation is not asideshow. If ClivePalmer had put Australiafirst as he claimed and put his money behind Pauline Hanson, it would have been pivotal, as all One Nation lacks is finance. Clive seems to have alot of it with all those useless adverts in the media.

The Tealsonlyrosefrom whereverbecauseof HolmesaCourt, and he appears to havewasted his money. Maybe next time Clive will put Australia first instead of his ego.

The letter by Brian Mawhinney showed facts that are ignored by others ('Not so smart energy, 21/05). Irecently saw an aerial shot of our ranges and the devastation of our vegetation is appalling in the name of renewables, as previously stated within the next three years, eyes will be opened and the Book of Bowen will be banned.

Ialsowould liketocomment on polling in Morwell (in regardtoTeresa Gorbal's letter'Disappointing conduct, 21/05). Icould not believe it when told of the site. Someone had their head in the sand and doesnot liveinMorwell.The site opposite McDonald's is not asafevenue for such alarge gathering.

On afinal note, we recently had road bumps put in our street, (not our request) so maybe Greg Jessup, that is your answer to drivers speeding around school zones ('Slow down around school zones', 21/05).

Patricia Correa Traralgon

Six little words

IAMimmensely flattered upon receiving letters from civil celebrants from all over Australia these last five years asking for permission to use my words in their marriage ceremonies.

With this background in mind, Iwas especially delighted to receive awedding invitation from a Gippslandcouplerecently and to actually hear my words spoken by the bride and groom exchanging their wedding vows.

To hear one's words spoken at such an important occasion is very humbling indeed and also very important to me as awriter.

The wedding was conducted in front of the rosecladgazebo at the romantic Morwell Rose Garden.

Here are the words: "Six-little-words that represent the fulfillment of every hope, every desire, every prayer, every long lost dream Ieverdreamt; Six-little-words that represent the fulfillment of every search, every step, every heartbeat, every road Iever travelled and that led to this moment and to you: With-This-Ring I-Thee-Wed."

Joseph Lis Morwell

Newborough speed reduction

AQUESTION to VicRoads:

Whywas the speed limit on Thompson's Roadin Newborough reduced from 80kmh from Old Sale Rd all the way through to 60kmh?

Going past the golf course where there are three houses at 60 is ridiculous. And what do they do, putspeed cameras in -that is revenue raising.

Let me guess,people moveinto an area with acertain speed limit then complain it's too fast.

You knew the limitwhenyou moved in, live with it or stay in the city whereyou came from.We don't want whingers from the city coming down and telling us how to run our lives.

Imoved to the Valley from Yarra Valley 23 years ago and love it here and would never try and change things.

All it has done is move traffic from Thompson's Rd to Old Sale Rd and John Field Drive.

Residents on Old Sale Rd now have trouble getting out of their driveways due to motoristsnow avoiding Thompson's Rd, just like Idoand many others Iknow. How is that fair on them?

The samethinghappened in Yallourn Northa few years ago.

Garry Mitchell

Yallourn North

Still waiting

ON MArch 6, 2025, Isent the following email to Latrobe City Councilafter mentioning this issue to acouncil worker at the Traralgon Pool two weeks previously.

"At the Traralgon swimming pool, atree has now grown sufficientlylarge enough to completely obscure the pedestrian crossing sign near the child care centre. As the sign on the other side of the crossingisnot in aposition where driverscan easily discern the sign and this crossing is frequently used by children, please remedy this road safety issue with urgency."

Typically, Ireceived no response, and typically, there has been no action.

Graham Shaw Traralgon

Shareyour story

BOWEL cancer is the second biggest cause of cancer death in Australia. But if detected early, more than 90 per cent of bowel cancers can be successfully treated.

Bowel screening is one of the most effective ways to detect the early signs of bowelcancer, butunfortunately only42.6 per cent of eligible Victorians are participating in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

Australians aged 45-74 are eligible to do afree bowel screening test every two years through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. People aged 50-74 get the bowel screening kit in the mail every two years, while people aged 45-49 can request their first bowel screening kit through the National Cancer Screening Register. Since 2017, Cancer Council Victoria has led statewide campaigns to encourage Victorians to participate in bowel screening. Our research shows that having areal person’s story at the heart of our campaigns encourages others to do their bowel screening test and can start important conversations between loved ones about the importance of screening.

That’s why we’re looking for individuals new to share their bowel screening story in 2025.

Bowel cancer survivor Laurie shared his cancer screening story with us in 2023 as part of a statewide bowel screening awareness campaign. Laurie talked abouthow doing the bowelscreening test saved his life, ensuring he could be around for important everyday moments with family and friends.

Laurie’s story and the 2023 campaign led to more than25,000bowel screening tests being completed. It is estimated this will help save an estimated 115 Victorians lives over the next 40 years. Thereare many ways your story could encourage Victorians to prioritise bowel screening, including us sharing your story on our social channels or website or to your local media outlet.

If you have abowel cancer story, we’d like to hear it.Yourstory could help raise awareness about the importance of doing bowel screening and encourage others to participate through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

Do you want to make adifference and help save lives? Headto: cancervic.org.au/screening-story for more information.

To learn more about bowel screening and the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, visit: cancervic.org.au/bowel.

Kate Broun

Cancer CouncilVic,HeadofScreening, Early Detection and Immunisation

Have your say

THE Latrobe Valley Express welcomesletters to the editor.

Preference will be given to brief, concise letters which address local issues.

The editor Liam Durkin, reserves the right to edit letters for reasons of space and clarity, and may refuse to publish any letter without explanation.

The Express does not publish letters from anonymous contributors.

Letters mustinclude aphonenumber, email address and the author'shometown for purposes of substantiating authenticity.

Readers are entitled to aright of reply to a letter directed at them.

While healthydebate 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, anddonot necessarily reflect the views of Latrobe Valley Express management or staff.

Readers should be equally aware that facts presented in letters are selected to support a person's point of view.

As such, statistics can quite often be 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 regardi ng relig ion will not be published.

Emailletters to news@lvexpress.com.au and include 'Lettertothe Editor' in the subjectline. Deadline for letters is Thursday 3pm. welcomes letters

Going alone: Nationals MPs Darren Chester (Federal Member forGippsland) andNationals leader,David Littleproud brokeawayfromthe Liberal par ty lastweek. Letterwriterand localGreens member,Dan Caffrey argues the move could inadver tentlyhelpthe Liberals,should thesplit remain. File photograph

Nationalshave explaining to do

COMMENT

BY ADRIAN COSGRIFF

WHY are the Nationals standing in the way of the best opportunity for regional communities in decades?

The Nationals are supposed to be the champions of the bush, not just farmers, but also for the people in country towns across Australia.

Igrewuponadairy farm in Gippsland. Ihave witnessed smallcountry towns shrinking overmy lifetime as technology has improved. Mechanisation has reducedthe number of people required on farms.

The opportunity to get askilled, well-paid job in the country has reduced over time and so instead, young people have moved to the cities. Many rural townsare dying. As thetowns shrink, services are removedinakindofadeath spiral, if you will.

In 2025, we are experiencing atechnological revolution in electricity generation -aonce in a century change to acriticalservice. We are moving from the old, very largebaseloadgeneration model, which has served us very well for along time, to the new widely distributedrenewable energy generation and storage. That transition is already underway.

In 2024,40per cent of the grid's annual electricity supply came from renewables. This changeover is now progressing at around five per cent per year meaning that we will be close to 90-100 per cent renewable energy in the next 10 years. Withthis change comes tremendousopportunities.

As we know, Australia has world class renewable resources of solar and wind and vast areas of land on which to build them. We no longer rely on the electricity generatorsconcentrated on ahandful of coal deposits around the country.

Today, from Tasmania to Cooktown and across to Port Augusta, renewable energy generators can be built and connected to the grid. Unlike the large coal deposits whichare in specific locations, the sun and the wind is everywhere.

This opens up anew window for rural communities.Weall know how tough farming can be. One year they have too much rain. The next year, not enough. Even in the good years, international marketsand supply chain issues canundermine profits

Peopleinthe cities probablydon't understand that being afarmerismore than just ajob.It's alifestyle commitment. Farmers will do just about anything to stay on thefarm.

Now, we have arenewable energy revolution on our hands. It has been drivenbythe need to reduce co2 emissions globally but as it turns out, there are huge side benefits. Especially for rural communities. We are on track to spend hundreds of billions of dollars over the next decade or two on renewable energy projects.Muchofitinrural areas

There is ajobsboom already underwayand it is estimated thatbetween 20000 and 60000 jobs will be created by 2030. If aregion has very cheap renewable electricity,all kindsofnew business opportunities are created. Instead of transporting raw materials to the cities (or overseas) for processing,having cheap local power means processing

can be done locally. This also massively reduces transportcosts and the emissionsassociated withit.

There are renewable energy zones or hubs proposedright across the nation. Among farms and mining areas. Locally produced cheap, clean electricitycreates all kinds of new business opportunities in those areas.

So, my question is asimple one. Why aren't the Nationals, the champions of the bush, going into bat for renewables?

Clearly, the opportunity to increase farm security is real. Diversifying farm income is agift. The opportunitytoimprove services in rural areas is alsoreal. New, well paid skilled jobs in rural areas are available rather than having to go to a city for work.

The rollout of renewables is enabling people to move to the country, geta decentjob andbuy a reasonablypriced house. That is an opportunity we haven't seen in decades and yet the Nationals are rejecting it.

For sure, we don't want to see landholders' rights abused by developers. We don't want to see inappropriate development in sensitiveareas.Wedon't want to see farming operations compromised by a lack of planning on the developer's behalf.

But that's where the Nationals can play asignificant role. They can support farmers and ensure that sensiblecompromises betweendevelopers and local communitiesare secured. They can hold Canberra to account and force the transition to be managed well. They can fight for infrastructure upgrades that communities can use for decades.

Renewable energy is here today. It's proven and reliable.It'snot an idea off in the distance decades away. We are already witnessing existing coal powerstationsbecome unreliable and fail more often.The Nationals talk about havingreliable power. Renewables replacing old baseload today is how you get there.

The Nationalsclaim that nuclear power is the answer. But anuclear powersolution for the cities, let alone for rural areas,isdecades away. What do they propose that we do in the interim?

The Nationals also claim that renewable energy can't power the grid fully and yet they have never providedthe evidence.Theyhave only made empty statements with no engineering reasoning to support such aclaim.

To the contrary, the power industry has shown that renewables can power the grid. Through modelling from experts such as the CSIRO and from the actions of our largest electricity suppliers suchasAGL, Energy Australia, Engieand Origin, we are already moving to arenewable grid today. So the Nationals need to explain to their supporters why they aren't supporting the concept of significant economicgrowth in rural communities via renewable energywhenthe opportunity is being offered to them.

At the same time, they need to provide the engineering data to confirm their view that renewables can't power the grid 24/7 and why all the energy industry experts in Australia are wrong. About the author: Adrian Cosgriff is a Traralgon resident.

Nuclear energy for Australia, the environment

COMMENT

BY ANTON GOSSELIN

THE fact is that nuclear is the only environmentally friendly way to achieve net zero by 2050 (or much earlier) while providing the baseload power that Australia needs for its industry and commerce,and to avoid periodic blackouts in our homes.

That is why it has been adopted as policy by the Greens Party in Finland.

There is no evidence at all that nuclear reactors damage the environment.

On the contrary, we should be more worried about the environmental damage being caused by renewables.

Where are the complaints about the large-scale damage caused by solar farm installations and their accompanying fields of batteries? Where is the agitation about the vegetation and animal habitats that are beingappropriated and bulldozed to make way for these?

What about the loss of habitat to make way for the huge concrete bases of wind turbines on land and in the sea?

There is already grave concernabout the number of nativebirds killed everyday by the lethal sweep of turbine blades.

Shouldn’t we be concerned about the thousands of square kilometres of native bushland currently being removed to install pylons to carry the power from remote areas at a cost of $10 million per km?

ABC News recently reported thatthe Codrington Wind Farm in south-west Victoria is planningtoshutoperations by 2027 before being decommissioned.

The turbines will have reached the end of their life and the company operating the wind farm says installingnew turbines on the site is financially unviable. So, the site will have to be rehabilitated at considerable expense and the existing infrastructure

recycled or disposedof. Thirty-threeotherold windfarms in Australia have also reached this stage.

The potential damagetothe environment caused by chemical leakage during the disposal of oldsolar panels, batteriesand wind turbines is amajor cause of concern.

Recycling of chemicals is afar more complex, difficultand expensive task than the simple recycling of plastics and glass by remelting. Or the repulping of paper and cardboard.

Arecent article by the American Solar Recycling Company spells it out:

 Recycling costs $15 to $45 per panel;

 Throwing panels in landfills costs just $1 to $5;

 Each panel costs $8 to $10 more to recycle than the materials are worth;

 Throwing panels away hurts our environment badly. Every 205 tons of solar PV waste in landfills releases about 2039 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. The waste of silver, copper, and silicon also makes it harder to build new panels.

“New recycling technologies show promise for better financial results. Studies show an USD18 per panel fee over 12 years couldcreatea profitable recycling industry by 2032." Source: The Solar Recycling Company, Jan 2025.

Have these annual USD18 per panel fees (AUD28) been included in the costing of renewables?

There is no doubt as to who will be paying them!

It is the final consumer, either directly through levies or by way of taxpayer funded subsidies.

Batteries are worse.

Largeindustrial scale batteries have ashorter lifespanthan panels, and they cost big money to recycle. Tesla Megapacks sed in the Victorian Big battery near Geelong.

Tesla says the cost improving due to advan

processesand the technology associated withthem:

 Recycling cost: $80 to $200 per kWh ($2,400 to $6,000 per Megapack);

 Revenue from recovered materials can offset costs depending on material prices;

 Break-even potential: Some companies claim to recover up to 95 per cent of battery materials, making recycling financially viable.

This huge expenseofrecycling is confirmed by thefollowing:

“Generally, recyclinglithium-ionbatteries,which are commonly used in energy storage systems, is currently acost-negative process, meaning the expenses associated with recycling exceed the value of the recovered materials.” (Energystorage.com)

Apart from the cost, we keep hearing of dangerous fires breaking out in recycling warehouses, mostly caused by lithium batteries.

Atmos Renewables is one of the leading renewable energy companies in the world and operates several large facilities in Australia.

Interestingly, they had this to say about nuclear’s carbon footprint:

“A carbon footprint can be definedasthe amount of greenhouse gas emissionsthatare associated with consumption."

"Nuclearpower plants have the lowestcarbon footprint for an energy source, estimated to be nine grams of CO2e per kilowatt hour produced. Wind power is not far behind though, averaging just 11g of carbon emitted per kwh of energy produced. By comparison, solar power averages approximately 44 g/kwh.” (Atmos Financial).

And, unlike solar or wind, nuclear works 24 hours aday, 365 days ayear for 60 years or more. Besides the onsite works during construction (proposed to be on existing powerstation sites), it does no harm

over the last year. Although the fire risk of wind turbines is considered low, the possibility of afire getting into the bush and out of control cannot be totally dismissed.

How ironic that an invention designed to eliminate carbon dioxide emissions might be the cause of colossal amounts being discharged into the atmosphere.

The Black Summer Bushfires of 2019/20 released about 830 million tonnes of carbon dioxide. That is more carbon dioxide than the combined output of all the Australian fossil fuel power stations over six years!

It is argued, correctly, that the regenerative growth after abushfire creates acarbon sink which reduces the total in the atmosphere, but thistakes 20 to 30 years to compensate. Every next bushfire sends us backwards again.

Obviously, clearing bushland to make way for solar panels, wind turbines or transmission lines further reduces thecapacity to absorb carbon dioxide.

The costlydamagecaused by renewableshas beenoverlooked or downplayed anditistime people realised that nuclear power is afar more environmentally friendly solution to our large-scale power requirements than solar or wind.

Iamnot against renewables as such. They are useful to reduce billsindomestic situations and small businesses. Ihave solar panels on my own roof, thanks to government rebates.

But we must call out the damage to the environment caused by sacrificing huge tracts of bush and valuablefarmlandtobuild hugeuglyand expensive fieldsofrenewables in the vain hope that they will provide the reliable power Australia needs in future. source of reliable go. Gossel in is a

HEADING NORTH

Mother’s Day morning tea

SACRED Heart Primary School, Morwell students shared amorning tea to celebrate Mother’s Day.

The day's celebration started with awhole school Mass where students were able to invite mothers, grandmas, aunties and carers.

Children had the opportunity to take their special person into their classrooms and show them their fantastic work. While they were in the classroom they sat together and also participated in avariety of activities. After that, mothers etc went on to enjoy amorning tea with their children.

The Mother’s Day raffle was drawn with many prizes available such as vouchers from CafeQu Bah, Bunnings and Viva Shoes. The school wished to thankall those who contributed to this year's Mother's Day raffle.

Showing appreciation for loved ones

STUDENTS at Chairo Christian School, Traralgon were given the opportunity to spend time with their mums and to show their appreciation at the annual 'Mum’s night' Students joined their mothers in craft activities, including card making, biscuit decorating and flower making. At the end of the night, the mums enjoyed some sweet treats and acuppa while the children enjoyed popcorn and amovie.

Words

Fast forward afew monthslater,and there is abearded dragon in the classroom.

Who knewthe students could be so persuasive!

Whatstarted as awriting prompt to engage students turned into so muchmore: research, mathematics, poetry, pet responsibility and animal awareness, as wellasa positive contribution to student wellbeing.

'Beardy Bowser' has been an endless source of enjoyment in middle school at Chairo, Traralgon.

It has been alot of work setting everything up and looking after him on weekends, but to witness the enthusiasm from students and theoverall benefits that aclass pet brings to students of this age, Mrs French would ask every school to consider the idea.

Studentspenned the following on the initiative. BEARDY is rough like rocks, cute as can be.

His heart is bigger than ever, sweet as sugar

He chills in his tank all day, he can be in his box, on the wall or on the rock.

Early in the morning, when the students arrive, Beardy’s on his perch, We’re all too loud, that’s not allowed. When we all gather around, he’s chilling, the star of the class, the reptile king! When the sun goes down, its Beardy time now,

Don’t stress, Just rest,

With no crowd to impress.

Now it's time to eat some food, we all want a ticket to feed Beardy acricket.by Ava (Year 6)BEARDY is acourageous lizard, He feels like arocky mountain hill as high as MountEverestand heart as deep as the ocean. He reminds me of Autumn.

Like whenhesmilesitall comestogether from soft skin to eyeswho have seen more than the normal,

But each person has astory even from the people to the animals.

Beardy reminds me of something you see todaylike whenyou walk around in town there might always be peoplewho look alittle shaggy on the outside.

But you shouldn’t judge abook by its cover becauseyou don’t always know the whole story, And beardy might look rough on the outside but he has abrave heart on the inside. So don’t judgea bookbyits cover. by Olivia (Year 6)

Hugs: Wyattwas all smiles with his mumfor Mother’s Day.

Joy: Henryenjoyedsharing Mother’s Daywith his mum.

Duo: Zane and his mum.

Love: Sacred HeartPrimarySchool, Morwell student, Oliver withhis mum.

CHARIO Christian School Year 5/6 students were given awriting prompt by teacher Joy French asking: 'Should every school have a class pet?'

Handson: Chario Christian School student Giftwith the classroom pet, Beardy Bowser the bearded dragon. Photographs supplied

Trio: Chase andJayden with their mum. Photographs supplied

Frame by frame: Dawid and his mum. Photographs supplied

Pair: ChairoChristian School student Moriah shows her artistic skills, under the watchfuleye of hermum.

Gathered: Nevada and family.

Smiles: Olivia wasthrilled to share Mum’sNight with her mum.

Learning about international travel

ST Paul’s Anglican Grammar School Year 6 students experienced atruly unforgettable day of learning, as they were transported on awhirlwind tour of the world’s deserts.

The fun began with as urprise bag check, where students were ushered through an 'airport security' simulation. They were grilled about their 'overweightluggage' and questioned aboutthe mysterious contents revealed by the X-ray. Once through security, students were then allowed to enter the classroom that had been transformed into abustling airport departure lounge, ready start their exploration of the world’s deserts.

Students then zoomedaround the ‘world’with ‘Sarley Tours’, aclever combination of their educators’ names.

As students found each desert destination around the playground they had previously studied, they earnt 'visa' stickers for their ‘passports’.

In the spirit of hands-onlearning and critical thinking, students then crafted 3D models of deserts, bringing the topographyand unique features of the landscapes they had studied to life, enabling themtovisually andtactilely explorethe deserts they had studied.

The day’s adventures culminated with awatercolourpainting session,wherestudents created desert savannah landscapes, blendingcreativity with their knowledge.

This day was aperfect example of personalised learning, with activities designed to engage each student at their own pace.

Approved: Abi, Chloeand Zeke getting their ‘visa’ stickeratSarleyTours.

Explore: St Paul’sAnglian Grammar School, TraralgonstudentsJackson and Mason present their Sahara Deser t3Dmodel

and Mason presenttheir

Olympicdiver inspires next generation

STUDENTS enrolled in the High Performance Program at St Paul’s Anglican GrammarSchool were visitedbyprofessional diver, Anabelle Smith.

Smith is af our-time Olympian and Commonwealth Games champion.

During her visit, she shared insights into her athletic journey, discussing career highlights, life as aprofessional athlete and the key factors contributing to her success.

Her core message to students emphasised the importance of valuing their support networks, staying truetothemselvesand dreaming big.

Smith brought her bronzemedalfrom the 2016 Rio Olympics along to showcase.

Luminary: St Paul’sHigh Performance Programstudents Jack,Harry,Spencer, Melia, Georgia (holding the bronze medal), Gracie and Tajwith Olympian Annabelle

Smith

Photograph supplied

Belt: Nicholas placeshis bag in the luggage X-ray machine at airpor tsecurity. Photographs supplied

Seek: Paygan-Lily, Mackai, Graceand Avaatone of the deser t‘destinations’.

Customs: Jackson

‘passpor ts’.

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Old Port Poultry Farm

Delivering 18 week old Isa Brown, laying hens to your area, Sat. 31 May. $32 each. Ph 0438 832 535.

DISC'S

4" cut and grind. 20 in a box, $30. Phone Allan 0418 512 015

HYDRAULIC pumps, cylinders, hoses, power pack, Denison double vane pump T6CC series. Other hydraulic items. Selling as one lot, will not separate. Local pick up only. All ex. cond. $2,000 o.n.o. Ph 0439 161 340.

JAYCO Sterling caravan. Bought new in 2008. Jacked up in air all life. Extra parts avail. $45,000. Allan 0418 512 015

Landscaping Mulch

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WANTED TO BUY

MORWELL 12 Hourigan Rd. Saturday, 8am-1pm. No early callers. Tools, household items. Too much to mention, come have alook!

NEWBOROUGH

15 Stearman St, Sat 31 May, 8am-2pm. Huge clear out: furniture, kids toys, homewares, clothes and more. Strictly no early callers please.

TRARALGON 10 Mac-Killop Court, Sat, 7:30-12:30pm Bric-a-brac, brooks, small furniture. Bargain prices.

to meet a lovely lady 50+ to join

Clearing Sale

This Saturday 31st May 2025at 10am A/C I& DAffleck 35 Old Walhalla Rd Toongabbie Property Sold

Machinery,Plant and Equipment: Massey Ferguson 5709 with FEL forks and bucket, Ford 4110 4WD with forklift, Case 580k Backhoe with 4IN1 bucket, Kawasaki 250 stockman 2W motorbike, Honda Forman 4W motorbike, Kubota sidekick RTV -XG850 600hours, Roller,24plate disc’s,Pearce’s feed out cart, Munro side shift post driver, Connor Shea coulter coil tyne direct drill, Crump Karrajong 1000 spreader,slasher mulcher,Jumbuck sheep crutcher,Monarch Tracker 6.3 boat and trailer with 2motors 2legs.

Sundries: Hay rings, harrows, saw bench, Lincoln welder on trailer,compressor,2x welders, 2x Honda pump, Subaru pump, wool table, shearing plant, backhoe accessories, electric pipe bender,hydraulic pipe bender,10x5 trailer,chains, bolts and sundries.

WHIRLPOOL

Notice to ADVERTISERS and RESPONDENTS

Voicemailintroductions advertisements and voice messages may only be submitted by persons 18 years and older. When making contact with people for the first time, it is advisable to meet in apublic place and let amember of your family or atrusted friend know where you will be. We would advise readers and advertisers to exercise caution in giving out personal details. This will be respected by genuine respondents.

Call for Expressions of Interest

Moe Southside Community Precinct Advisor yCommittee Community Representatives

Do you have an interest in advisingLatrobe City Council on the use, maintenance, developmentand managementofthe Moe Southside Community Precinct?

Vacancies existonthe Moe Southside Community Precinct Advisor yCommittee for two community representatives.

The Advisor yCommittee has been appointed by Latrobe City Council to provideadvice and directiononmatters relating to theMoe Southside Community Precinct. Thecommunity representatives are appointedfor athree year term withthe Advisory Committee undertaking meetings bi-monthly

If you wishtobeconsidered for acommunity representative position please complete the Expression of Interestform available from any of Latrobe City’sSer vice Centre’sorfrom our websiteat: VolunteeringinReserves, Gardens and Recreational Areas (Community Assets) | LatrobeCity Council

For more information, please phone Dan Nichols, Coordinator Recreation Liaison and Reser ves Maintenance on 0418 323 848or email dan.nichols@latrobe.vic.gov.au

Expressions of Interest close at 5:00pm, Friday 27 June 2025.

Refreshments available, buyer I.D required, number system will operate. Term: card, cash or cheque day of sale unless prior arrangements are made. GST applicable

Contact: Jarr yd Sutton 0457 034111

Aaron Ralph 0456215 087

Call for Expressions of Interest

VictoryParkPrecinctAdvisory Committee

Community Representatives

•Doyou have an interest in advising Latrobe City Council on the use, maintenance, development and management of the VictoryParkPrecinct in Traralgon?

Vacancies exist on the VictoryParkPrecinct AdvisoryCommitteefor two community representatives.

The AdvisoryCommittee has been appointed by Latrobe City Council to provide advice and directiononmatters relating to the VictoryParkPrecinct. The community representatives are appointed for athree year term with theAdvisoryCommittee undertaking meetings bi-monthly

If you wish to be consideredfor acommunity representative position please complete the Expression of Interest form available from any of Latrobe City’sService Centre’sorfrom our website at: Volunteering in Reserves, Gardens and RecreationalAreas (Community Assets) | Latrobe City Council

For more information, please phone Dan Nichols, Coordinator Recreation Liaison and Reserves Maintenance on 0418323 848or email dan.nichols@latrobe.vic.gov.au

of Interest close at 5:00pm, Friday 27 June 2025.

Call forExpressions ofInterest

Traralgon Recreation Reserve and ShowgroundsCommittee Community Representatives

•Doyou have an interestinadvising Latrobe City Councilonthe use, maintenance, development andmanagement of the Traralgon Recreation Reserve and Showgrounds in Traralgon?

Vacanciesexist on the Traralgon Recreation Reserve and Showgrounds AdvisoryCommittee for two community representatives.

The AdvisoryCommittee has been appointed by Latrobe City Counciltoprovide advice and direction on matters relatingtothe Traralgon Recreation Reserve. The community representatives are appointed for athreeyear termwith the AdvisoryCommittee undertakingmeetingsbi-monthly

If you wishtobeconsideredfor acommunity representative position please complete the Expression of Interest form available from any of Latrobe City’sService Centre’sorfrom our website at: Volunteering in Reserves, Gardens and Recreational Areas (Community Assets) | Latrobe City Council

For more information, please phone Dan Nichols, Coordinator Recreation Liaison and Reserves Maintenance on 0418 323 848 or email dan.nichols@latrobe.vic.gov.au

Expressions of Interest close at 5:00pm, Friday 27 June 2025.

GARDENING DONE

Responsibility

J.C CONCRETING

Sheds, driveways, footpaths, crossovers etc.

Phone Justin 0409479737

Security Doors

PARAPLANNER / FINANCIAL PLANNING ASSISTANT

Employing more than 40 local people, McMillans are amedium accounting, business advisory and financial planning firm based in Traralgon. They are 100% locally owned and operated, and work with clients across many industries, services and professionsthroughout Australia, though predominantly in Gippsland. They have built a great team and culture.

On behalf of McMillans, we are currently looking for a Paraplanner/Financial Planning Assistant. This role would be suitable for aqualified, experienced Paraplanner or someone who has proven skills and interest in analytics and/or financial concepts, together with astrong attention to detail and awillingness to learn.

This position can be either full time (with a monthly RDO) or part time (4 days) for the right applicant. Salary will be dependent on skills and experience.

no liabilityfor such omission.

Call Bill at "Total Home Renovations" Phone 0409 565 497.

Does your home need new doors? Ican supply/ install doors/locks incl. security doors. Over 32 yrs exp. Free quote. Get your doors hung right the 1st time by Lennie 0438 850 287. CUT it DOWN and CLEAN it UP Tree removal big or small, including climbing, topping, hedging, shrubs, bushes, and more. Residential commercial, real estate. Call Vic and team on 0434 114 139. ABN 795 99 743

Door Installer

ELECTRICIAN

Specialising in all domestic work. REC.4188. Phone Peter 0438 177 153 or Carol 5126 2110.

FENCING

Gates, retaining walls and back yard projects, 35 years exp. No job too small. Call 0407 336 237.

Any questions can be emailed to: rachel@hrsorted.com.au - please do not contact McMillans.

To apply for this role please search for: 'McMillans' or 'HR Sorted' via www.seek.com.au and apply including your resume and application letter. Applications close 15 June, however, we will consider applications once we have a suitable pool of applicants, so please apply asap.

Assistant Principal Faith and Mission

LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANIC

AT FOSTER SERVICE CENTRE

House available for suitable applicant in Foster and help relocating.

Full time and part time options available

We areseeking aLight Vehicle Mechanic to join our modern and growing business. We work on a wide range of vehicles, handling ever ything from ser vicing and maintenance to repairs, as well as installing Ironman4x4 accessories and upgrades.

PreferredExperience:

•Qualified LightVehicle Mechanic

•3-4 year apprentices arealsoencouraged to apply

What We Of fer:

•Competitive wages above the industr yaward, negotiable based on experience

•Aspacious, state-of-the-art workshop and modern of fice with allthe necessar ytools and equipment for ef ficient workflow

•Afriendly,supportive team with agreat reputation for quality work

If you’re looking to join athriving business with opportunities for growth, we’d love to hear from you!

How to Apply: Call or email Clint to discuss this opportunity on 0356 821 211 or fosterservicecentre@gmail.com

W l k f d t ti !

Would you liketodeliver theLatrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesdayand /or Wednesdayafternoons in Traralgon and Moe.

Please apply to: The Circulation Manager 0456 000541 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

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.

DAIRY CATTLE FARM OPERATOR

Employer: CDWYER & T.M DWYER. Job Position: Dairy Cattle Farm Operator. Salary Range: $66K- $70K per annum (plus super). Location: Newry, VIC 3895 For full position description and required skills, and to apply: https:/au.indeed.com/job/ dairy-cattle-farm-operator -4a5962b2b88779f7

DELIVERERS WTD

Would you like to deliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Morwell, Traralgon, Moe, Newborou gh and Churchill? Please apply to the Circulation Manager 0456 000 541. Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Emplo ym ent Pe rmit Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted. Adult deliverers also welcome.

Immediate Start

at aboveaward

RDO Overtime required (rotating roster) To apply,email resume and qualifications to: jsmithmotors@jsmith.com.au

Darren Cor nell

JSmith Motors 03 5134 3333

TRAFALGAR HIGH SCHOOL

Education Support Integration AideCasual

Trafalgar High School is seeking areliable and enthusiastic person for aCasual Education Support Integration Aide role in the classroom. Experience working with students is preferred but not essential.

For more information please contact: Jack Brown, Assistant Principal PH: 5633 1733 or email trafalgar.hs@education.vic.gov.au

Expression of Interest School Unifor mSupplier

Submissions are invited in accordance with the EOIdocuments for the: Traralgon College School Council For information contact: Ms Claire Gibson Business Manager on (03) 5176 22640

EMAIL: TRARALGON.CO@EDUCATION.VIC.GOV.AU

CLOSING10.00AM Monday 2nd June 2025

Interested parties can contactthe schoolfor acomplete package of documents.

FRANKLIN Luke Stephen (Franko) Tragically passed away on 14/5/2025. Dearly loved son of Steve and Julie. Dearly loved father of 6children. Much loved brother, uncle and friend to so many. Forever in our hearts Love Mum and Dad.

HOLLONDS Peter John Of Heyfield, formerly of Benambra. 29/9/1945 -18/5/2025.

STANLAKE Fred 19/5/1942 -24/5/2025

Eternally loved husband of Myrna for 62 1/2 years. Cherished Dad of Jacqui and David; Andrea and Rasheeda; and Kirsty and Stephen. Adored Granddad of Sam, Isaac, Emily, Jordan and Aimee; Bronte, Blake and Ta hlia; and Dani el. Great-Granddad to Charlotte, 'The Light of His Life'.

Cars •

COMMODORE VY-VZ ute hard lid, lockable, near new $900. Also 235/ 40R18-95W chrome BSA rims and near new tyres $1200. May swap with standard rims with good tyres. Ph 0409 025 764

BEK Jacoba Passed away at home 19 May 2025. Aged 86 years Loving wife of Antoon (dec.) Loving mother of Robert, Judy and David. Adoring Oma to Trent, Claire, Declan and Callum. Those we love, don't' go away They walk besideusevery day Unseen, unheard but always here Still loved, still missed and very dear

BROWN Carolyn Joy Born 13/1/1946 Passed away peacefully at LRH on 19/5/2025. Loved wife of Phillip (dec.). Much loved mother of Christopher, Michael (dec.), Anthony (dec.), Trevor (dec.), Claire, Sally (dec.), Beth and Erin.

Loved Grandmother of 9 grandchildren and 4greatgrandchildren. Though smiles are gone forever and her hands we cannot touch, we shall never lose the memories of one we loved so much

Loved youngest son of Jack and Enid (both dec.). Brother of Alma (dec.), Jim (dec.) and Margret. Dearly loved husband of Lois.

Loved father of Andrew (d ec .), R icha rd and daughter-in-law Penny, Edward (dec.), Elizabeth and son-in-law Brad Loved Pa and Pa'P to Chandler, Pippa, Wyatt, Rueben, Digby and Archer.

Even though Iwalk through the valley of the shadow of death, Iwill fear no evil.

Mount your horse and round up the cattle with your old dog bluey. You are now at peace.

Dad Ican still hear you in the back paddock. Have along sleep, will catch you later.

Love Richard, Penny, Chandler and Pippa.

Dad Rest easy now, to the long yard you shall stay.

Love Elizabeth and sonin-law Brad. Pa'P, we love you. Your grandsons Wyatt, Rueben, Digby and Archer.

HOLWELL James (Jim) Mathew Richard 10/10/1984 -22/5/2025

Loved son of Karen and Cliff (dec). Brother to Charles and Sarah. Loving partner of Jayde. Proud father of Summer, Declen, Jesse, Melody and Harmony. Grandfather of MackenzieLee.

Forever 40

Please see Latrobe Valley Funeral Service's website for funeral details: https:/www.latrobevalley funerals.com.au

Special friend of David, Andrew, Mel and Grace. 'King of The Dad Jokes'. In Lieu of Flowers, Donations may be made to

STANLAKE Fred 19/5/1942 -24/5/2025 Will be sadly missed. Brother of Ray, brotherin-law to Dorothy. Uncle to Melissa, Christopher and their families. Rest In Peace Fred

STREET William Fredric "Bill" Passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at LRH Thursday 22 May 2025. Aged 77 years Loved and loving husband of Jenny. Loved and respected father and father-in-law of Michael, Matthew and Victoria, Desiree and Scott, Dennis and Anna and Willy (William) and Tracy. Proud Pop/Grandad to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Loved son, brother and friend. You worked so hard for those you loved, you always did your best, you fought until you could no more, and now you are at rest. Sadly missed

COYLE Robert Passed away peacefully. Aged 71 years Loving husband of Julie. Father of Lauren and James. Father-in-law of Michael and Simone. Grandfather of Stella, Ivy, Zane and Kyah. Brother of Helen and Joe.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

The Latrobe Palliative Care. Envelopes will be available at the service.

FRENCH Murray Daniel

3/10/1941

-25/5/2025

Passed away peacefully

surrounded by his loving family. Aged 83 years

Loved and loving husband of Lyn for 60 years.

Much loved brother to Kerry and her family.

Loved brother-in-law to Ann. Adored uncle to all his nephews, nieces and their families. Forever in our hearts

In accordance with Murray's wishes, aPrivate Funeral will be held.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

MORWELL 514 4937

Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

FRENCH Murray

Dearly loved and loving son of Lila and Bill French (both dec.). Adored and much loved brother to Trevor (dec.), Kerry and Irene (dec.). Loved and respected uncle and great uncle to their families. So dearly loved and admired by all.

Family gatherings will never be the same. Rest In Peace

Murray was more than my husband, he was my soulmate, my rock, my greatest companion and friend. His love, laughter, and quiet strength were the heart of our home, and his absence leaves a space no one can ever fill.

Forever in my heart always by my side

Lyn XX

It breaks our hearts to say goodbye to our beloved bother-in-law and Uncle, Frenchie.

6Ollerton Ave

on WEDNESDAY (28th May) commencing at 10.30am. This service will be livestreamed to view please visit our website at: www.latrobevalley funerals.com.au

BROWN

The Funeral of Mrs Carolyn Brown will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 260 Princes Highway, Traralgon, FRIDAY (30 May 2025) commencing at 1pm.

At the conclusion of the Service aPrivate Cremation will be held at Gippsland Memorial Park Traralgon.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

AFuneral Service to celebrate the life of Mr Robert Coyle will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Avenue, Moe. MONDAY (2 June 2025) commencing at 1.30 pm.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

HOLLONDS

The Funeral of Mr Peter John Hollonds of Heyfield, formerly of Benambra, will leave St James Anglican Church, Heyfield, corner of Temple Street and Harbeck Street, Heyfield, after aService commencing at 11am on MONDAY (2 June 2025) for the Toongabbie Cemetery. Please see Peter's Funeral notice at: stephenbaggs.com.au for alink to the livestream.

STEPHEN BAGGS FUNERAL DIRECTORS BAIRNSDALE 5153 2150

MIFSUD AFuneral Service to Celebrate the Life of Mrs Christine Mifsud will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 6Ollerton Avenue, Moe on THURSDAY (29 May 2025) commencing at 10.30 am. At the conclusion of the Service the Funeral will leave for the Yallourn Cemetery.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

STANLAKE Frederick Edward AM em orial Servic e Celebrating the Life of Fred will take place in the Oak Room, at Gippsland Memorial Park, Cemetery Driv eT ra ral go no n THURSDAY (29 May 2025) at 12 noon. To be preceded by a Private Family Service.

He brought endless love, support and warmth to our lives. We were truly blessed to have him in our lives, and we will miss him deeply.

Always and forever With all our love

Ann, Kathryn, Stuart, Sophie, Joshua, Nikita and Darcy, Brendan, Pauline, Steven, Natasha, Rohan and Cameron.

FRENCH Murray

Dearly loved and loving brother of Kerry, loved uncle and great uncle to Jacqui, Maya and Angus, Grant and Amand a, Lochlan, Brodie and Haileigh.

Ihave no words that are adequate to express my sense of loss. You have always been my hero not just because of your sporting success but because of the wonderful, generous and kind person you were. You were my rock through many good and bad times; your generosity and love and support never wavered.

Rest peacefully now my beautiful brother Kerry.

Forever in the hearts of those who loved you. A kind and loving uncle who will be greatly missed.

Who is going to laugh at the Christmas cracker jokes now?

Love you to the moon

Jacqui, Maya and Angus Go Tiges!

To agreat uncle, you will be missed. Thinking of the great times we had together. Reunited with Nana and Grandad and Uncle Trevor.

Sleep peacefully

Grant, Amanda, Lochlan, Brodie and Haileigh.

STEELE Paul Late of Parkwood WA and previously of Yallourn/ Newborough. Amemorial service will be held at NewboroughRSL on FRIDAY (6 June 2025) at 1pm.

STREET

The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation of Mr William "Bill" Fredric Street will be held at the Gippsland Memorial Park Crematorium, Rose Chapel, Cemetery Dr Traralgon TUESDAY (3 June 2025) commencing at 11am. Bill's service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream, please visit our website.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 5126 1111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MONDS Graeme

Thank you to all for your cards, text's phone calls and bunches of beautiful flowers. To me there is a lifetime of wonderful memories to every name, as Graeme touched so many people in all walks of life, mates in business, speedway, karting and billiards. It's all atestament to the guy they called "Mondsy' with the stories they told. Many thanks to all who formed aguard of honour around the kart track for his last lap and received the chequered flag. Ithank you all from the bottom of my heart.

To Dr Fiona Brown and Dr Kasun for their help over many years, but the biggest thanks goes to Leonie Curly, who donated a kidney to Graeme some nine years ago, the extra time was well lived and so grateful for the extra time, spent wisely.

Big thank you to Geoff at Latrobe Valley Funeral services for the way they gave attention to detail and made my heavy heart easier to bear on avery sad day. The service at the Glenmaggie cemetery was just as Graeme would have wanted. With thanks, Jeanette Monds.

Respectful, simple, affordable funerals. Youdon’tneedtopay

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 CREMATIONPACKAGES FROM $3300

CARROLL Brett 25/05/2005. For those who understand no explanation is needed. For those who do not understand no explanation is possible. Loved and missed every single day. Mum, Dad, Aaron, Sonia, Thomas, Lachlan and Jessica. Honour your loved ones and share their

MURDOCH Ken, Karen, Marj, Ian, Rikki, Karla and family would like to thank all the friends, family and Kmart staff for their condolences, flowers, cards and support during the sad loss of our Steven.

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE -ROUND 7(SPLIT RND)

AGRADE: Traralgon 65 def Wonthaggi 44, Warragul 95 def Maffra21.

BGRADE: Wonthaggi 49 def Traralgon 42, Warragul 54 def Mafra21.

CGRADE: Wonthaggi 35 def Traralgon 28, Warragul 43 def Maffra22. 17 AND UNDER: Traralgon61def Wonthaggi 18, Maffra30def Warragul 29. 15 AND UNDER: Traralgon 73 def Wonthaggi 3, Warragul 42 def Maffra28. 13 AND UNDER: Traralgon 51 def Wonthaggi 15, Maffra38def Warragul 10

MID GIPPSLAND -ROUND 7

AGRADE: Boolarra61def Thorpdale 34, Foster 48 def Yinnar 41, Mirboo Nor th 52 def StonyCreek 40, Newborough 47 def Tarwin 46, Toora41def Morwell East 36, MDU vs Fish Creek (no scores entered), Hill End -bye

BGRADE: Boolarra36def Thorpdale 26, Foster 55 def Yinnar 35, Mirboo Nor th 47 def StonyCreek 40, Newborough 40 def Tarwin 24, Toora58def Morwell East 43, MDU vs Fish Creek (no scores entered), Hill End -bye

CGRADE: Yinnar 28 def Foster 25, Boolarra 75 def Thorpdale 13,Mirboo Nor th 31 def StonyCreek 27,Tarwin33drewNewborough 33, Toora40def Morwell East 25, MDU vs Fish Creek (no scores entered), Hill End -bye

DGRADE: Boolarra56def Thorpdale 11, Mirboo Nor th 48 def StonyCreek 18,Yinnar 45 def Foster 13,Tarwin22def Newborough 17,Toora20def Morwell East 16,MDU vs Fish Creek (no scores entered), Hill End -bye.

17 AND UNDER: Newborough 29 def Tarwin 14,MirbooNor th 39 def StonyCreek 14, Yinnar 48 def Foster 18,Toora71def Morwell East 16,MDU vs Fish Creek (no scores entered), Boolarra-bye,Hill End -bye 15 AND UNDER: Mirboo Nor th 34 def StonyCreek 12,Yinnar 39 def Foster 19, Newborough 28 def Tarwin 21, Toora53 def Morwell East 6, MDU vs Fish Creek (no scores entered), Boolarra-bye,Hill End -bye 13 AND UNDER: Newborough 26 def Tarwin 17,MirbooNor th 15 def StonyCreek 14, Yinnar 20 def Foster 7, Toora18def Morwell East 16, MDU vs Fish Creek (no scores entered), Boolarra -bye,Hill End -bye

NORTH GIPPSLAND -ROUND 7

AGRADE: Sale City58def Rosedale 28, TTU 57 def YYUN 42, Gormandale 40 def Woodside 31, Heyfield 58 def Glengarry36, Cowwarr -bye,Churchill -bye

BGRADE: TTU 40 def YYN 38, Sale City 45 def Rosedale 43, Woodside 44 def Gormandale 26, Churchill 46 def Yarram 22, Heyfield 47 def Glengarry45, Cowwarr -bye

CGRADE: TTU 37 def YYN 27,Rosedale

35 def Sale City31, Woodside 43 def Gormandale 22, Yarram 26 def Churchill 21, Heyfield 49 def Glengarry34, Cowwarr -bye

DGRADE: Sale City42def Rosedale 31, TTU 42 def YYN 19,Gormandale 36 def Woodside 27,Churchill 26 def Yarram 14, Glengarry27def Heyfield 24, Cowwarr -bye 17 AND UNDER: Sale City45def Rosedale 35, Woodside 31 def Gormandale 17, Churchill 30 def Yarram 10,TTU 63 def YYN 5, Heyfield 37 def Glengarry26, Cowwarr -bye.

15 AND UNDER: Sale City34def Rosedale 27,Woodside 56 def Gormandale 13, Churchill 45 def Yarram 1, TTU 42 def YYN 15,Glengarry24def Heyfield 23, Cowwarr -bye.

Traralgonhosting thetop tables

Little Latrobe Valley joy in Vic hockey

HOCKEY LVHA

BY JASMINE LANGSTAFF

THE Latrobe Valley Hockey Association's VicLeague girls team travelled to take on Eastern ChristianHockey Organisation (ECHO) at the weekend.

The team had arenewed sense of positivity and were eager to bounce back after a tough previous weekend.

Thefirst quarter saw the defence under alot of pressure, but the girls stood strong, managing to keep asolid defensive line. Withboth teams failing to breakthe deadlock, the quarter ended withthe score nil-all.

The secondquarter brought abit of excitement,asCharlie Murrell found herself in aone-on-one situation with the ECHO goalkeeper. However, the goalie made alast-ditch effort to block the shot just in time. Shortly after, ECHO managed to sneak in alucky goal, heading into the half-time breakwith aone-goal advantage. With afew positional changesatthe break, the Latrobe Valley girls came out for the second half determined to give it everything.

Steph Langstaff put in an outstanding performance in goal, making life difficult for ECHO’s attackers and ensuring they couldn't find the back of the net easily.

Despite the girls' best efforts, ECHO was too strong and the finalscore saw the Vic League girls fall short. The result wasdisappointing, but the team's effort signalledapromising bounce-back.

 IN Vic League Men's, Latrobe Valley made the trip to face Old Trinity Grammarians.

Latrobe Valley lostnarrowly, 3-2 in a fiercely contested match.

Max Mott and Timothy Hooper both found the scoresheet for LVHA, showcasing sharp finishing and strong attacking play.

The match was evenly poised throughout, with momentum swinging back and forthasboth teams fought hardfor control

Despite the result, LVHAshowed plenty of fight and resilience, pushing Old Trinity until the final whistle.

 LOCAL action saw aphysical and hard-fought contest between Rovers and Traralgon.

The two side's couldn’t be separated on thescoreboard, with the game finishing in athrilling 3–all draw in ahigh-quality local women’s hockey clash.

Charlie Murrell opened the account for Rovers, and Aria Ranui stepped up to add abrace in astrong attacking display.

Traralgon answered withgoals from Bec McDonald,MikaylaMcDonald and Alana Tratford.

Churchill put in astrongteam performance to defeat Moe 5–2, in asolid showing on home turf.

The return of Rachael Wangman made abig impact, with her strong defensive work shutting down Moe’s forwards and keeping their attack in check.

Churchill moved the ball well through the midfield, setting up plenty of chances up front.

Ash Morfit was everywhere, setting up several goals and scoring two herself.

Sandy Young, AliceStewart and Joanne Maxwell each added one goal to seal the win.

 TRARALGON claimed acommanding 22–6 win over Rovers in men's local Hockey 5s.

Both sides played with energy and flair, butTraralgon’s sharp finishing and quick transitions provedthe difference in agame full of goals.

TABLE TENNIS

By KATRINA BRANDON

GIPPSLAND Regional IndoorSports Stadium (GRISS), Traralgon is set for more tabletennis action over the next month.

The Table Tennis Country Championships are set for the King’s Birthday Weekend (June 7to9), with country players from across the state competing in team andindividual games.

Alongside the Country Championships, Table Tennis Victoria (TTV) is celebrating100 years of table tennis. TTV has an eight-year partnership with Latrobe City, where country, state and national tournaments will be held in Traralgon.

The2025Country Championships marks year three of the partnership.

FromAGradeplayers to EGrade,rural and regional associations have submitted teams for the weekend. The teams will compete in a“pennant” system to determinewho is number one in each grouping.

In addition to team games, players can play graded games, doubles, and open singles against each other (individually rather thanfor theirclub). Last year, the Country Championships brought hundreds of players to Traralgon.

Other table tennis news comes in July, when the 2025Australian National Championships willtake placeatGRISS. Aselection of the best players at a national level will participate, which was selected on May 6.

“Table TennisVictoria is excitedtoannounce the TTV State SelectionPanel has met and selected the Victorian Junior, Youth,Senior and Para State teams that will compete at the 2025 Australian National Championships in Traralgon,Victoria this July," TTV said.

“In addition to the 107 players, Team Vic will be sending ahead coach, team manager and para team manager in addition to 13 additional coaches to providesupport to all the players across the week.”

"I am veryexcited for all of the members of ourVictorian Team thatwillbetaking part in the upcoming 2025 National Table Tennis Championships back this year in Victoria," TTV’s chief executive officer, Gen Dohrmann said.

"It's aculmination of the players'hard work, dedication, and passion,and we can't wait to celebrate their achievements in Traralgon.

"This year's nationals, in particular,isvery special. It takes place not only in Victoria but also in Table Tennis Victoria's centenary year.”

More fish habitats for Gippsland

FISHING

THE state governmentismakingfishing even better right across Victoria, with 14 fishing projects set to share in nearly $1.1 million in grants.

Acting Minister for Outdoor Recreation,Ros Spence announced the latest recipients of the Recreational FishingLargeGrants Programto improve facilities, create more fish habitats and support fishing research.

The grants willfundthe Native Fish Report Cards,researchinto estuary perch stocking, more fishhabitats in the Gippsland Lakes and atrial to reduce fishing-related litterinthe Sunraysia region.

The fundisbackedbyVictoria’s anglersthrough the reinvestment of their fishing license fees –which

means this generation of fishing fans is makingsure the next generation has the same great fishing they get to experience.

In western Victoria, the Lake Marma Committee and HindmarshShire Council arereceivinggrants of $80,000and $60,000 respectively to build allabilitiesplatforms on Lake MarmainMurtoa and RainbowLakesothat more peoplecan get involved in the sport.

Afloating pontoon will also be installed at Lake Marma to providebetter access to the eastern side of the lake. Rainbow trout are stocked in the lake in the June and September schoolholidays, as well as goldenperch fingerlingsinsummer, so there is year-round fishing for people to enjoy. At Warrnambool boat ramp,anew fishing gantry will be installed by Warrnambool City Council thanks to a$74,000grant so catches of tuna and gamefish

can be weighed on the spot, fresh from the water. Around Melbourne, Parks Victoria will improve seven fishingplatformsonthe MaribyrnongRiver thanks to a$46,400 grantand MeltonCityCouncil will use $55,000 to buildlower landings on the Navan Park Lake boardwalk for easier access to the water.

Clinics for all-abilities anglers will be available thanks to a$40,000 grantfor ReclinkAustralia who will run the clinicswith Fishcare Victoria, and atrio of fishing platforms will be installed at the DunyakMoira fishing lakeatMerrigum,with Goulburn Valley Water scoring $24,200 in funding. An additional $300,000 will be allocated by the VFA to support arange of First Nations fishing projects over the next six months. For more information, go to: vfa.vic.gov.au/ fishinggrants.

TRARALGON SWIMMING CLUB

SEASON 2025/26 AWARD WINNERS

10 YearsAge Champions: HenryArnup,BlakeWarne (MC), Tahlia Maccubbin

11 YearsAge Champions: Xander Szkwarek, ClaireMcQuillen

12 YearsAge Champions: Kaiden Warne, Chloe Rawson

13 YearsAge Champions: Jayden Tran, Milla Said

14 YearsAge Champions: Archer Marsland, Phoebe Balcombe

15 YearsAge Champions: Kody Said,LaraLandels,Isabella Slocombe (MC)

16 YearsAge Champions: RileyLowe, Lockie Bellion (MC), Jessica Whiting

17 &OverAge Champions: AshleyNicholes,Olivia Baillie

7&Under AgeChampions: Dylan Rawson, Ivy Bevis

8YearsAge Champions: Louis Bedford, Ivy Ryan9YearsAge Champions: Benjamin Edgar,WillowOrchard

AGLMostImproved10/Under: Isabella Young,Hannah Rochstad-Lim, Chloe Morris,RileyO’Mara, RileyBar tlett, Ben Edgar

AGLMostImproved11/Over: ClaireMcQuillen, Ruby Dmitrios,Eve Hanratty,Elijah Vercoe,OliverVercoe,Kynan Bur ton

Best in Gippsland Fixture: HenryArnup

Brian Ford RelaySwimmer of the Year: Chloe Szkwarek

CountrySquad Coach’sAward: HenryArnup

GippySquad Coach’sAward: Austin Ryan

Junior Development Coach’sAward: Ivy Ryan

Kathleen FroudClub Champion: AshleyNicholes

Master Champions:Cam Juha, Shannon LorimerMastersSquad Coach’sAward: ClareRawson

MeyerFamilyFINA Award: AshleyNicholes

MulchXpress FirstYear Swimmer: Flossy White

National Squad Coach’sAward: Kody Said

StateSquad Coach’sAward: Milla Said

Strength and Conditioning Coach’sAward: AshleyNicholes

The Doc Shop Encouragement Award: Ruby Demitrios

The Doc Shop Para Swimmerofthe Year: Lockie Bellion

Top10: 1. AshleyNicholes,2.KodySaid, 3. Jessica Whiting,4.Brody Cargill, 5. Archer Marsland, 6. Olivia Baillie,7.Phoebe Balcombe,8.Darcy Connell, 9. Zayden Bur ton, 10.Milla Said.

Ready: Traralgon’s PeterGomez and other local tabletennis players areexcited forthe countr y championships Photographs:Katrina Brandon

All ages: From juniorstoseniors, Traralgon will welcome hundreds of playersfor the TableTennis Countr yChampionshipsnextmonth.

Gormandale take huge netty scalp

NETBALL

BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

ROUND 7ofboth Mid Gippsland and North Gippsland netball brought with it some surprising takeaways,with both leaguesseeing flow down each ladder.

Newborough snuck by Tarwin 47 to 46 keeping the Bulldogs within the top six.

Played out at Tarwin Lower Recreation Reserve, the Sharks positioned themselves well early with a13-7 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The Bulldogs' scoringand intensity jumped in the second term, producing a14-goal period to nine to be down by just three goals.

WhileNewborough wasnow matching and even slightly succeeding Tarwin’s output, they still faced athree quarter time deficit, but then grabbed the game when it truly counted.

Demi Caldow pouredin27goals and Caitlin Prestidge added 20.

In amatchup between first and second, Foster grabbedthe points against Yinnar, 48-41 at Yinnar Recreation Reserve.

While the Magpies held afour-goal lead at quarter time, the Tigers evened up the contest 22-all before halftime.

After the main break, not much could separate

either side, but Foster made slightly more of their opportunities to hold atwo-goal lead with aquarter to spare.

A14-9final term stretched out the lead enough for the Tigers to feel comfortable.

ClaireThorburn and Patty McInnesboth shot 18 goals for Yinnar in defeat.

Thorpdale proved little match for Boolarra.

At Boolarra Recreation Reserve, the Demons picked up the victory 61-34, thanks to a31-goal second half.

Lara Noblett top-scored with 41 goals and was supported by 10 apiece from Aleeah Munnich and Phoebe Cavill.

Tooracame to Ronald Reserveand bested Morwell East.

The Magpies won 41-36 despite some pushback from the home side.

The Hawks held athree-goal lead after the first quarter, but were outscored 34-26 the rest of the way.

Alice Mills scored 29 goals for Morwell East.

Mirboo North defeated Stony Creek, 52-40, while Hill End had the bye.

 OVER in North Gippsland, Gormandale made the trek to Woodside and slayed the Wildcats, 40-31.

Woodside was leapt from the word go and trailed

12-6 at Woodside Recreation Reserve after the first quarter.

The home side could never findthemselves in the game, and the livelyTigers kept chugging along towards eventual success.

Maddy Dark scored agame-high 38 goals for Gormandale.

After losing their first two matches, the Tigers have won four in arow.

TTU collected their third win for the season at Tyers Recreation Reserve over Yallourn Yallourn North, 57-42.

TheJetsweremadetopay after givingupa 16-8 deficitinthe first quarter, but they momentarily recovered towards halftime but still couldn’t stop the Bombers attack.

A28-goal scoringexplosioninthe secondhalffor TTU wrapped things up nicely.

Maleah Travers (32goals) and Rachel Shaw (25) split the scoring load.

Heyfield bested Glengarry, 58-36.

Responding after asurprising loss to Gormandale, the Magpies were the Kanagroos unfortunate victim in response.

Heyfield poured in 21 goals to eight in the first quarter, which set up their victory entirely.

Phoebe Richardson scored 34 goals, followed by Chloe Jones with 24.

Tough assignments forGippyStars

pushedthe margin to doublefigures as halftime came withthe Stars facing a17-goal deficit.

Astalematethirdterm couldn’t see the Stars dig back into the game and they ran out of gas during the final 15 minutes.

DESPITE playing the most amount of games of anyVictorian Netball League club over the last week, Gippsland Stars were still unable to secure awin across all four games in Championship and 23-and-Under play.

Playing against Hawks last Wednesday (May 21) at the State Netball Centre wasalways goingtobea toughmatchup, given there’s asix-game difference between the two on the ladder. The Championship Stars still gave it agood go but fell short, 61 to 35.

Tiedatsix-all after eight minutes in the first quarter would be as close as the Stars got as the term ended with them trailing 14-10.

The Hawks then rattled off eight of the next nine goalstobegin the second quarter,which quickly

GOLF

CHURCHILL &MONASH

Churchill& Monash Golf Club

ParSaturday17th May2025.

AGrade Winner: J. Langstaff+1

BGrade Winner: T. Sterrick+2

CGrade Winner: B. Mathieson +7

D.T.L: 1. M. Lugton +3, 2. P. Flanigan +1, 3. M. Hutchinson 0, 4. P. McGann 0, 5. J. Jeffrey 0, 6. J. Sanders(snr) 0, 7. D. Byers

-1 c/b

N.T.P: 3rdR.Dent, 12th T. O’Sullivan (Propin), 14th S. Sanders

Birdies: 3rdC.Wilson

Target Hole: D. Byers

StrokeTuesday20th May2025

Winner: M. Dear 76 Nett

Scratch: M. Dear 94

D.T.L: 1. S. Turner 77 Nett, 2. K. Del Piccolo

78 Nett

N.T.P: 3rdC.Carder,5th S. Caldwell,12th C. Barnes,14th C. Carder

MIRBOONORTH

Tuesday20th MayStableford

AGrade: MPayne (9) 35pts

BGrade: DTaylor,(23) 39pts

DTL: SBeitz, 34, CJames,JGunn, 33. NTP: 4th NWhichello,6th TBradshaw, Birdies: 4th, NWhichello,6th, TBradshaw.

Saturday, 24th May, Par, Final Capt Trophy.

AGrade: RScurlock, (9) 1upc/b

BGrade: JHughes,(17)1down

DTL: TimTraill +1, GShandleysq, M Woodall, TBradshaw-1c/b

NTP: 4th JHughes,6th SWoodall, 13th Tim Traill, 16th, RScurlock, Birdies: 4th SEvison, 13th TimTraill, S Woodall, 16th RScurlock, MPayne

Captain TrophyFinal: RickScurlockdef Choppa Hughes 2/1

MORWELL

Womens 21st May2025Stroke-Day Event

Div 1: CBoers74

Div 2: Lvan Rooy 71

DTL: BScurlock73D Vuillermin 76

NTP: 2nd BScurlock11th DVuillermin 15th NTePaa

Birdies 15th NTePaa

Ramayer Keiltytop-scoredwith23goals and Jessica Black with 10.

That same night, the 23-and-Under Stars were taken out by Hawks, 67-42.

Keeping idly by until halftime, a16-7third quarter pushed the leadtoinsurmountable lengths for the Stars.

Charlize Traumanis scored 19 goals and Myah Healey 11.

 ON Sunday (May 25), both teams travelled to Casey Stadium to take on the Demons.

The Championship Stars lost similarly to the 23-and-Unders the Wednesday prior, 67-42.

With the Demons holding downthe Stars chances

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Div 1Gross: SPearson 87 92 90 =269

Div 1Nett: SPearson 71 76 74 =221

Div 2Gross: CBoers96102 96 =294

Div 2Nett: CBoers748074=228

Div 3Gross: GClark 117118 117=352 Div 3Nett: BScurlock748874=236

MOE

Sunday, 18 May2025 OPEN SundayMixed

Stableford

Grade AWinners: Pisa, Johnny(5) 42

Grade BWinners: Langmaid, Trevor (16) 43

Place Getters: Johnson, Charles 35 C/B

Spiteri, Paul 35 C/B Johnson, Tony 35 Veenman, Laurie 34 C/B

Wednesday, 21 May2025 WOMEN'S PAR

Grade AWinners: Borg,Kathy(17)+2

Grade BWinners: Mitchell,Evelyn+1

Place Getters: Mead,Anne +1 C/B

Savige,Karyn -1

Great Score: KarenShawBirdie @14

Leanne Donaldson Birdie @9

Nearest to Pin: 4th Sue Tulau 8th Kathy Borg 14th KathyBorg

Target Hole Prize: KarenShaw

Thursday, 22 May2025 OPEN Mixed

Stableford

Grade AWinners: Muirhead, Neil (10) 42

Grade BWinners: Halkett, David (12) 43

Grade CWinners: Knox,Terry(28) 38 C/B

Place Getters: PEEL, Michael 38 C/B

Donaldson, Murray 38 De DiosAl 37 C/B

Garlick, Karl 37 C/B Bechaz, Paul 37 C/B Coffin,Phillip 37 Giles,Jackson 36 Dyt, Ricky 36 C/B Colvin,Anthony36C/B Ray, Michael 36 C/B Veenman, Laurie 36 C/B

Flynn, Errol 36 C/B Sykes, Clinton 36 Eastaway,Karl35C/B

Great Score:BernardHoward (Birdie) @14

David Halkett(Birdie) @8

Murray Donaldson (Birdie) @8

Jason Shearing (Birdie) @8

Craig Downs (Birdie) @14

Karl Garlick(Birdie)@14

Jeffrey Bassman (Birdie) @4

Michael PEEL (Birdie) @14

WilliamPace (Birdie) @8

Nearest to Pin: 4th PeterRodaughan

and making the most of theirs, a16-9quarter time deficit would be the closest they got again.

That lead quickly went out to 16 goals at halftime and then 26 at three quarter time.

Traumanis stepped up into the senior side and contributed ateam-high 24 goals at a75per cent rate. The 23-and-Under side also succumbed to Casey, 63-37.

The Starsheld aone-goal lead after thefirst quarter, but that was quickly negated by a16-9 second term to face asix-goal halftime deficit.

The Gippsland side couldn’t keep up the scoring loadwiththe Demons,asthe leadgot to its highest in the final quarter.

Healey scored 16 goals, followed by Anna Mooney with 12.

Gippsland Stars' nextgame isn’t until June 4 against Peninsula Waves at Jubilee Park Stadium, Frankston.

SCOREBOARD

8th Karl Garlick 14th Jason Shearing Saturday, 24 May2025 WOMEN'S SATURDAY OPEN STABLEFORD

Grade AWinners: Shaw, Karen(19)33 Saturday, 24 May2025 MENS Stableford

Grade AWinners: Fife,Mark(9) 39

Grade BWinners: Rothwell, Craig (12) 35 C/B

Grade CWinners: Pisa, John (22) 30

Place Getters: Johnson, Tony 37 C/B Johnson, Charles 37 Weir,Charles 35 C/B Wilkinson, Wally35Jamieson, Justin 34 C/B Bassman, Jeffrey34C/B Howard,Bernard 34 Poole,Joel 33 C/B Wilson, Lee 33 C/B Collings,Dale 33 C/B Great Score:MarkMetcalfe(Birdie) @4

PeterStephens (Birdie) @8 Joel Poole (Birdie) @8 KevinClark(Birdie)@14

Brayden Hefford (Birdie) @8 Paul Spiteri (Birdie) @14BarryMead (Birdie) @4

Aaron Bassman (Birdie) @8

Nearest to Pin: 4th BarryMead 8th Brayden Hefford

TRAFALGAR

Friday, May23rd, Open Men’s& Ladies

Stableford

Winner: RoyWhatmough 37 pts

Runner Up: Jeff Gray 36 pts

DTL's: Charli Killeen 35, MatthewSilk 35, RobCusworth-Warner 34

Birdies: 5th: Dwayne Jenkins,MatthewSilk, GarryJansen 15th: Jordan Chapman

Saturday, May24th, 4BBB Stableford

Winner’s: Sue Klemke& Angela Bayley

49 pts

DTL’s: RobSaunders& PeterRhodes 48, Richie Parsonage &Peter Moss 47,Mark Hiriart&GarryJansen 44, ScottMcKinnon &Josh Clarkson 44

NTP’s: 2nd: PeterMoss –Angela Bayley

5th: Jack Marshall –DiMoody 11th: Reno

Borg13th: MarkHiriart 15th: PeterMoss

Tuesday20/05/2025 -Stableford

Players: 36, Women 5, Men 31

Winner: GeoffFallon (22 c/b)

Runner Up: BevKeily(22 c/b)

DTL: Andy Kiss (22), MickBennett(22), Ivan Grant (21), RobCusworth-Warner (20),

Recreation Reserve. Cowwarr and Churchill had the bye.

Latrobe Valley Baseball Round 6

RESULTS AGRADE

 CHURCHILL 3DEF MOE/ NEWBOROUGH2

 TRARALGON10DEF SALE 3

Ladder: Sale (6 points,3 wins,3 losses, F33, A34), Churchill (6pts,3w, 3l, F29, A41), Traralgon (6pts,3w, 3l, F43, L41), Moe/Newb (4pts,3-3, F51, A40).

BGRADE

 CHURCHILL 5DEF MOE/ NEWBOROUGH4

 TRARALGON10DEFMORWELL6

 SALE -BYE

Ladder: Churchill (6pts,3w, 2l, F33, A27), Moe/Newb (6pts,3w, 2l, F34, A24), Sale (6pts, 3w,1l, F36, A17), Traralgon (6pts,3w, 2l, F54, A27), Morwell (0pts,0w, 5l, F14, A76).

CGRADE

 SALE 14 DEFCHURCHILL GOLD 9

 CHURCHILL GREEN 13 DEFMOE/ NEWB 5

 TRARALGON15DEF MORWELL 3

Ladder: Traralgon (10pts,6w, 0l, F93, A34) Churchill Green (8pts,4w, 2l, F69, A22), Sale (6pts,3w, 3l, F57,A58), Moe/Newb (4pts,2w, 4l, F47,A69), ChurchillGold (4pts,2w, 4l, F59, A65), Morwell (2pts,1w, 5l, F41, A118).

SteveLawrence (20), Sue DeVries (20), Hank Fiddelaers(20), Duanne Baker (20)

NTP: Ivan Grant (5th)

Thursday: 22/05/2025 -Stableford

Players: 58, Women 20, Men 38

Women’s Winner: JanJansen (21)

Runner Up: Sonya Roberts (20)

DTL: Nola Fordham (19), Sue Klemke(19), Aileen McNair (18), Cheryl Toyne (18)

NTP: Aija Owen (13th)

Men's Winner: Al Gray (22 c/b)

Runner Up: Franc Kiss (22 c/b)

DTL: GeoffThomas (22), David Balfour (21), John Dodorico (19), GaryJansen (19), PeterCooke(19), Max Pugiese (18), Vic Hill (18), RonPyke(18)

NTP: Ivan Grant (13th)

21/5/25 Neilsens4BBB Championships

Rd 2

Winners: SamCaldow(10)and Aileen McNair (33) with 46 points

Runners-Up: Cheryl Toyne (21) and Cheryl Deppeler (23) with 42 points c/b

DTL: BronWallace and JennyEvison with 42 points,and Ange Bayleyand LynPowell and Di Moody and Lorna Risol with 41 points

NTP: 5th Lorna Risol 15th Heather Savige

Stableford Winner: JennyEvison (23) with 39 points

Gobblers: SamCaldowonthe 17th and BevKeilyonthe 12th

9-Hole players

Winner: Sue Balfour (47) with 20 points

Runner-Up: Di Bayley(34) with 18 points

Congratulations to the winnersofthe Neilsens 4BBB Championships

Cheryl Toyne and Cheryl Deppeler with a total scoreof88points

Runners-Up were Sam Caldow and Aileen McNair with 87 points

YALLOURN

Ladies MayMonthly Medal and Count

Putts22.5.25

Winner: Evelyn Graske (35) 102/ 67 nett

DTL: Lola Carter (15) 72 Sue Riches (31) 73

NTP: 2nd LynMcAlister 8th Betty Dobson 12th target hole LynMcAlister

Count Putts: LynMcAlister 32 putts Lola Carter 32 putts

Tuesday22.5.25 9Hole Stableford Div 1: (0-31) BetsyBrown (23) 18 pts Div 2

Judy Budge (41) 18 pts

PISTOLS

TRARALGON

Air pistol Mon 12/5/257

BGrade: BKelly526-57-583. CGrade: VBaldwin 501-69-570. EBeaufort 495-89-584. DGrade: LDePetro461-88-549. B Chapman 445-128-573. DSykes 444-115559. PDePetro432-212-644. LMorris 418-123-541.D O' Rouke409-146-555. K Beaufort353-192-545. Ladies Air pistol

CGrade: JAdkins 423-152-575. DGrade: RMiller 370-162-532. CentrefireWed 14/5/25

DGrade: BChapman 445-180-625. B Goodwin 438-143-581.D O'Rouke250204-554. LMorris 204-331-535. MHoward 143-291-434.

25 mt pistol

CGrade: BKelly510-59-569. CBenelli 507-52-559. JStringer 478-97-575. DGrade: FBorgnine 470-123-593. Sat 17/5/25morning Standardpistol DGrade: EBeaufort425-164-589. K Beaufort207-275-482. afternoon shoot Centrefire

DGrade: BGoodwin 456-141-597.D Chandler 374-159-533. 25 mt pistol

CGrade: CBenelli 541-54-595

Sale City again proved why they are the best team in the competition, easily taking care of Rosedale 58-38, at Rosedale

Netball scoreboard-Page41

LATROBEVALLEY SOCCERLEAGUE

LADDER -ROUND 10

 SENIORS

Olympians: 23 points (7-2-0 record, +34 GD)

Moe: 20 (6-2-1, +29)

Sale United: 20 (6-2-1, +9)

Falcons: 14 (4-2-2, +9)

Monash: 13 (3-4-2, +3)

NYU: 7(1-4-4, -13)

East Gippsland: 6(2-0-7,-22)

Traralgon City: 1(0-1-7, -30)

Churchill: -2 (1-1-6, -19)

 RESERVES

Sale: 24 (8-0-1, +42)

Moe: 31 (7-0-1, +31)

Olympians: 17 (5-2-1, +6)

Monash: 15 (5-0-3, +15)

Falcons: 13 (4-1-3, 0)

Churchill: 7(2-1-5, 0)

East Gippsland: 7(2-1-6, -27)

Traralgon City: 3(1-0-8, -23)

NYU: 1(0-1-6, -53)

 SENIOR WOMEN'S

Sale: 21 (7-0-0, +42)

Moe: 20 (6-2-0, +32)

Churchill: 19 (6-1-1, +22)

Olympians: 10 (3-1-5, -21)

Traralgon City: 10 (3-1-5, -21)

Falcons: 9(2-3-4, -14)NYU: 8(2-2-5, -14)

Tyers: 6(1-3-4, -9)

Monash: 4(1-1-8, -17)

 3RD DIVISION

Olympians: 17 points (6-2-0, +21)

Churchill: 18 (6-0-2, +7)

Moe: 13 (4-1-3, +9)

Fortuna: 13 (4-1-3, -9)

Tyers: 12 (4-0-3, 4)

Sale United: 6(2-0-6, 1)

Monash: 3(1-0-6, -13)

Falcons: 3(1-0-5, -20)

Olympians fairytale alive

SOCCER

LVSL BY JOHN CARDONA AND LIAM DURKIN

MATCHofthe Round between the two undefeated sides, Traralgon Olympians and Moe United, saw Olympians prove far too good, runningout 4-1 victors.

The result consolidates Olympians at the top of the Latrobe Valley Soccer Leaguesenior men’s ladder after 10 rounds.

The Traralgon-based club is now in primeposition to take outthe LVSLchampionshipfor the first time in more than 20 years.

In the four matches played at Harold Preston ReservelastSaturday, all were factors towards determining who would stay in therunning of each division’s title aspirations.

The senior game was amatch of two halves. The first half was aclose and often physical affair, followed by acomplete domination by the home side in the second.

The match was just 10 minutes old when aMoe Unitedattacksilenced the home crowd, when athroughballfrom Connor O’Hanlon saw the Olympians central defenders fail to clear the ball, leading to an ever-alert Matt Shearing seizing upon the opportunity.

He raced toward goal, rounding the advancing keeper and slamming the ball into the empty goal.

The visitor’s celebration had barely subsided when an Olympians attack up the left wing saw a cross finish in the goalmouth, where the ball was hammered home from close range by Alradi Ali to level the scores.

Moe United came close to regaining the lead when along cross field pass by Chad Shelley was headed by Shearing, only to see his attempt palmed away by the keeper from the top right corner.

Fromthat point on, the first half heated up

physically. Both sides had chances to take the advantage, with keepers at both ends kept very busy, although neither side was able to break the deadlock.

Asensation saw Red Devil’s coach, Lee Dastey red carded, meaning he had to call the shots from the grandstand.

Thesecond half started with end-to-end football Moe was forced to reshuffleits defence after Lachie McKenzie left the pitch with agroin strain

The home side took the lead when Andre Antonopoulos struck asweet hit shot that found thenet at the far post.

Olympians went in for the kill, and another injury to Moe’s Sammy Lietzau forced another change to the visitor’s line-up. The home side was now dominating and added another two goals from Ali.

Ali was best-on for his hat-trick, while Jordan Martin,JakeDunstall and Antonopoulos were also lively.

Olympians coach, Anton Sbaglia paid credit to the team’s performance, noting the class of the hat-trick hero.

“We’re pretty fortunate to have the veteran up front, Alradi,he’s been at the club for many years, one of the greatest strikers the league’s ever seen, withthe younger boys we’re pretty fortunateto have quality players on and off the bench to be able to score,” he said.

“The first half we took awhile to grow into the game, it washighintensity, both teamscouldn’t string six, seven passes together,asthe game went on the game opened up alot more.

“I definitely knew it was goingtobethe toughest matchofthe year, knowing the quality of players they have, and how well organised their club is and their team is, so coming into agame like tonight was always going to be tough, but we showed heart, hunger.”

Olympians are now three points clearontop of the

ladder, and with the chance to create aCinderella Story. Should Olympians win the league title, it will cap offa remarkable turnaround. The clubdid not even field asenior team only three years ago. Best for Moe United wasShearing,McKenzie, Shelley, O’Hanlon and Luke Bathgate.

IN other senior men’s games, Falcons 2000 beat an ever-improving Traralgon City on Sunday, 4-nil.

The home side was under pressurefromthe outset, but Falconswerewastefulintheir attempts on goal, with Will Medd, Jordi Vacca, Jamie Pistrin and LachlanFrendoall coming closetogiving their side the lead.

Eventually the dam wall burst open as the returning Pistrin made no mistake from close range to open the scoring. It was soon two as club leading goal scorer, Frendo smashed arasping shot into the back of the net City had acouple of half-chances in the first stanza but could not test the ever-reliable Callum Dominguez in goal.

The second halfwas much the same,and in truth not much of aspectacle.Falcons dominated possession and fieldposition,and while they added two more goalsthroughPistrin and Frendo, will be disappointed therewas no further reward on the scoresheet.

Victory was welcome for Falcons, after sharing the spoils with Sale the week prior.

The win sees the Morwell side sit comfortably in fourth place and six points off the summit.

Falcons play Churchill this Sunday (June 1). The Rams will be desperate to collect apoint or three to eradicate the points deficit they currently sit at due to aFootball Victoria sanction for fielding an ineligible player.

Churchill hadthe bye in Round 10. Othersresults saw Monash and Newborough/Yallourn draw 1-all, and Sale defeat East Gippsland 2-nil.

Possiblelast chance saloon this weekend

SOCCER

LVSL BY JOHN

CARDONA

MOE Unitedrecorded wins in the reserves and senior women's at the weekend.

Round10action saw the Red Devils headto Harold Preston Reserve to take on Traralgon Olympians.

 RESERVES

OLYMPIANS and MoeUnited fought outa thrilling and physical match in an end-to-end battle.

The Red Devil’s came out on top2-1 to hold equal top spot with Sale United.

The first half was an evenaffair, withboth sides having chances to takethe lead. Despite multiple opportunities, neither team could break the deadlock.

For Moe United, the ever-dangerous Ben Schembri was giving the Olympians defence plenty of headaches.

The second half followed asimilar trend to the first, with lots of goalmouth action.

Finally, in the 50th minute, the Red Devils earnt acorner kick, with the resultant kick causing a scrimmagewhere the in-form MichaelMelnyczenko smacked the ball past acrowded goalmouth into the back of the net.

Olympians pushed hardfor the equaliser, and got their reward after 60 minutes thanks to awell taken goal from Simon Ierardi.

Moe responded through Zoran Winkelman unleashing an incredible rocket which rattled the

crossbar from 25 metres out. Five minutes later, Ierardi hit what looked like an unstoppable drive, which was headed for the top corner, only for Moe United keeper Joel Thompson to pull off asuperb right-handed save.

With 10 minutes left, Schembri was rewarded for his hard work, when he chased down astray ball and was illegally tackled from behind, giving his side aspot kick.

HarleyRobinson stepped up to take the kick,and gavethe keeper no chance,ensuringanimportant three points went the Red Devil’s way.

Elsewhere, Sale United crushed EastGippsland 10-1 and Falcons beat Traralgon City 3-nil.

 SENIOR WOMEN’S

MOE United proved far too strong for Olympians, running out 5-nil victors.

The Red Devilsopenedthe scoring25minutes intothe first half,whena brilliantrun up the right wing by Tianna Reddlex saw her outpace two Olympians defenders,then strike surely from an acute angle.

Playbecameabit of astalemateafter that, although Moe United had their chances, coming from MileyCooper, Georgia Wyntjes and Rebecca Van Der Koogh.

Olympians had agreat chance to get agoal back when their forward caught out the Moe United defence, but the shot was thwarted thanks to a superb save by Red Devil’s keeper Bridget Green. The visitors were dealt ablowjust before halftime, when key defender Jamie Shelley went down with aknee injury.

The second half saw Moe United apply constant pressure. The Red Devils were awarded apenalty kick after left winger Miley Cooper was brought down from behind.

Wyntjesstepped up to take the spot kick, but the attempt went well wide.

Moe United soon went 2-nil up however, when a cross from Miley Cooper saw agoalmouth scrimmage, where the ever-improving Karlie Lee-Taffs hit her shot into the roof of the net to score her firstever seniorleague goal, much to the joy of her teammates.

The Red Devils breathed asighofreliefafter central midfielderParis Troughton returned to the pitch, after initially looking to suffer aknee injury. Wyntjes eventually foundthe backofthe net when she converted her opportunity after great work on the left wing by Miley Cooper.

The team’stop goal scorer, Van Der Koogh rounded off agreat win when she foundthe net after more good work from Miley Cooper.

Best for the winners was Haley Laws,Tianna Reddlex, Nicole Riseley and Van Der Koogh.

In other games,Falcons defeated Traralgon City 2-1 and Monashrecordedtheir first win for the season, beating Newborough/Yallourn 2-1.

 THIRD DIVISION

TRARALGON Olympians ranout 4-1 winners over reigning champion, Moe United.

The home side opened the scoring, but the Red Devils were soon back on level terms with agoal from Gedd Heusmann.

From there however, Olympians took control of the game to secure the three points.

Anton Sbaglia scored twice, while Stefan Sbaglia and Yousef Mohamed also got on the scoresheet. Best for Moe United was Heusmann, Jax Cowton, Dylan Farrugia and Zane Poxon.

In other results, Tyers defeated SaleUnited 2-nil and Churchill demolished Fortuna 10-nil.

 PREVIEW

THIS Saturdaynightsees MoeUnitedinvolvedin crucial matches in nearly all divisions at Olympic Park (Vale Street, Moe).

In the senior men’s, there is much at stake Whoever loses will struggle to stay in the running for the league title.

The Red Devils have been hit with some crucial injuries in the past few weeks, and will need the players who are stepping up to the ones to bring their upmost.

In the reserves, the top-two sides Moe United and Sale United face off in abattle to take the box seat in the league championship.

The seniorwomen’s game is amassiveencounter, where the home sidewill try to beat the undefeated league leaders. Sale United has been the standout women’s side for the past few season.

Third Division kicks off on Pitch No 2, with the home side looking to get back on the winners list after adisappointing loss.

Kickoff times are: 3rd div2.30pm, reserves3pm, seniors 5pm, women's 7pm.

Entry is $10 adults, $5 pensioners and free for under 16s.

Fortuna dominates fellow Gippsland club at home

BY

ALLAN ROBERTS

ROUND 9ofthe Veto Men's State League saw Fortuna '60 playtheir last home game for the first halfofthe season against the closest geographical rival, Bunyip Strikers Soccer Club. Coming off apreviously strong result, the Lions were keen to keep the momentum up and secure another win. The Fortuna outfit was bolstered by the return of Jake Budija and Jordan Campbell into the starting 11.

The conclusion of the game saw Fortuna come away with a5-2 win. In an all too familiar season pattern, the oppositionteam hit the scoreboard first in the fifth minute, taking advantage of adefensive error to go 1-nil up early in the game.

However, little more than three minutes later, Fortuna's Damon Scott got his head onto across fromHayden Tanti to level the scores and restore abit of calmness back for the home team.

The next 20 minutes sawboth teams trying to assert their dominance over the game, but the scores remained deadlocked until Fortuna's Daniel Cooper sent in apinpoint perfect free kick onto the Bunyip keeper who fumbledthe ball.

The loose ball was picked off by Ryan Ayres for the Lions, the Englishman adding another goal to his season tally. With the halftime whistle blowing, Fortuna headed to the changerooms with a2-1 lead.

At the start of the secondhalf, Fortunacapitalised first in the 50th minute, with Scott taking a run down the wing and crossing the ball in. Again the Bunyip keeper got his hands to the ball but only managed to fumble another save, with this

44 —The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 28 May, 2025

loose ball picked off by Hayden Tanti to give the Lions a3-1 lead.

With the home side well and truly awake, the next 40 minutes was all out attack. Rayvel Whiting woundback the clock and made some excellent overlapping runs from leftfull back to trouble the Bunyip defenders. The veteran defender put in abest-on-ground display with some solid football.

In the 67th minute, Scott again exerted his influence, picking off acontested ball in the box andscoringtogive Fortuna a4-1 lead with 20 minutes left. But the game was not done yet, after working hard all game, Jake Budija got onto a corner ballinthe 71st minute that fell at his feet, tapping it in to give the Lions acommanding 5-1 lead.

With 10 minutes left, Bunyip scored aconsolation goal via acheap defensive error, but the Lions

defenders, led by Robbie Stephen and Whiting, repelled any furtherattacks for the remainder of the game.

The win sees Fortuna maintain their six-point advantage at the top of the table with one game left for the first halfofthe home-and-away season. This Saturday (May 31) the Lions are away to seventh-placed Mount Martha, and the focus is on another win to keep the club's nine game undefeated run going.

 EARLIER in the day, the Fortuna Reserves took to the field and were hoping to bounce back after the previous week's drubbing. There was promising signs early in the game, butthe endresult wasa1-all draw. The home team failed to capitalise on apenalty that would have given them amuch needed win and ashot of confidence, buta point isapointand the team will move onto the next challenge.

Traralgon marathon this Sunday

ATHLETICS

BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

BY

THE Traralgon Marathon and Running Festival returns for its 58th edition this Sunday (June 1), with many in the weeks and months in advancing circling it on their calendarwith much anticipation. This year’s event will open at adifferent venue, with participants starting and endingatGlengarry Football-Netball Club.

Runners will stilltraverse up the Gippsland PlainsRailTrail for acountry course to Toongabbie, with half-marathonrunners going up and back between the two towns, while those completing the full 42.2 kilometres make the trip four times to and from.

Traralgon Harriers President, PhillMayeris readyfor anothersuccessful outing, whichhas already seenthe half-marathon at capacity weeks in advanceand only afew spots remaining forthe 10km run andmarathon itself.

“It’s actually really exciting, the 58th running of the event. It’s the longest running event in Australia,” he said.

“Huge demand and we lifted capacity this year, there’s beenareally good responseand we’re really excited to run another fantastic event for the club and the region.”

Mirroring what the Traralgon Harriers sets out to represent, while the event doesattract elite-level runners due to its uniqueness with aflat course thatiseasier on runner’s feet,anyone and everyone is welcome to enter regardless of ability.

“The event is definitely designed for newer runners and for local runners and for amateur runners to come along and run,” Mayer said.

“Our second-year race director Desley Gray has

worked really hard to be inclusive and to market things towardsthosesortofmiddle-of-the-road runners, people who really want to give it acrack

“We call ourselves the ‘Country Marathon’, it’s a welcoming marathon.

“We’ve got some top-end runners, there’s no doubt about that, but it’s going to be the stories of those runners who are running their first event that are going to be really special.”

One such runne rt hat sits as one of the favourites to cross the finish line first includes

previous two-time Traralgon Marathon winner Dion Finocchiaro competing for the first time in more than adecade.

“He’s afantastic guy, super fit, he’s going to do amagnificent time -Ithink people are going to be chasing him,” Mayer said.

After anumberofyears with the event being held at De Grandi’s Winery, Traralgon East and before that at the Traralgon Foootball-Netball Club, the new central location in Glengarryoffers afresh environment for spectators and easement on the

many volunteers required to make the event run smoothly.

“One of the considerations is for spectators, also there’s less roadcrossings, so it reducestraffic management,” Mayer said.

“Parking was another issue, we basically outgrew the Traralgon Winery due to the parking and parking demands.

“Glengarry FNC has got areally wonderfulgroup of volunteers, the club’s behind the event as well, so they’ll be directingtraffic, directing parking and providing all the marshalling for that… it’s basically aparingwiththe Glengarry FNC.”

Runners will even get to finish with alap around the football ground, which Mayer compared (in smaller size) to circling the MCG during the Melbourne Marathon.

Acarb loading dinner will alsobeheld this Saturday night from 6pm at Dal Mondo Restaurant, Traralgon, as apre-cursor to Sunday’s proceedings.

The pre-event is open to the public and features three fabulous guest speakers.

Nikki Wyndwas the first Australia to win the prestigious Badwater 135 Ultra Marathon (217km race across Death Valley) and has over adecade’s worth of experience in world-class ultra-running. Australian marathon legend RickPatzold has completed aludicrous422 marathonssince he began in 2001 and holds the distinction as the only Australian to go sub-4 more than 200 times. Motivational speaker Kylie Mayne has completed six World Major Marathonsand will be supporting the Traralgon Marathon on the day as the 2:10 half-marathon pacer. The Traralgon Marathon launches at 8am from Glengarry FNC with the half-marathon following at 9am and 10km run at 10am this Sunday.

Harriers fine-tune before biggestclubevent

ATHLETICS

TRARALGON HARRIERS

BY BARRYHIGGINS

AS alead up to the TraralgonMarathon,afew

hardy Harriers –some may say ‘foolhardy’ –with friends and running comrades, took part in the

Grins: DavidBarr,left, finished just ahead of his runningpar tner

Great Ocean Road Running Festival this month.

The 60 kilometre ultramarathon course from Lorne follows the Great Ocean Roadsouthward, with alengthy detour inland throughforest country. It then rejoins the coast road, finishing at Apollo Bay. The marathon runs more directly along the Great Ocean Rd to also finish at Apollo Bay. The half-marathon starts halfway along the marathon course, at Kennett River, again finishing at Apollo Bay.

Stephen Renehan, dropping back from his usual 100kmormore events, finished high in the field in the ultramarathon. Running with Stephen in the sold-out field was Nikki Wynd, the guest speaker at the pre-Traralgon Marathon dinner (to be held this Saturday night), andGrace Tame,the 2021 Australian of the Year and apassionate advocate for survivors of sexual assault.

Marieka Reilly completed thedemanding marathon while her friends and training companions, Desley Gray and Susan Poole, ran good times in the half-marathon. Susan afterwards related, “I was very happy to go under three hours, given my lack of training leading up to the event.”

Last Thursday’s run/walk (May 22) was another new course, from the Henry White Reserve in Newborough. In benign but cold conditions, many ran fast times as aprelude to their taper down before themarathon. Others had already begun their taperand cruised around the course at a modest speed.

Quickest women were Yani Cornthwaite, afew minutes ahead of the quiet achiever, Kimberly Imperial and Liz Kenney. Fastest of the men

was David Barr, Peter Cutler and Clinton Jolly. Tomorrow's run/walk (May 29) is the Stockdale Rd 5km course,startingfrom the clubrooms at the Traralgon West Sports Complex. Annual membership is stillopen and all members are reminded to renew their membership. For anyone who is considering joining the Harriers, now is agood time. See: traralgonharriers.org.au. Members are also asked to bring along acan or twooffood for the ‘Give aDamn –Give aCan’food appeal. Look out for the red binsaroundTraralgon.

Results -

HenryWhiteReserve 5kmDavid Barr 21:19, Peter Cutler 21:32, Clinton Jolly21:42, Trent Kooyman 21:43, ScottSyme 22:17, Stephen Renehan 22:22, Andrew Broberg22:49, Ian Cornthwaite22:59, DempseyPodmore22:59, Adrian Sutcliffe 23:08, Seth Bomers23:20, PeterSanders23:49, RonVerschuur 23:51, Belkey Podmore24:24, Yani Cornthwaite 24:30, David Hood 27:30, Kimberly Imperial 27:49, Liz Kenney27:54, Chris VanUnen 28:23, Ree Graham28:43, Jason Odlum 29:35, Lauren Peter 29:43, Collette Hofmann 30:34, MarkLansdown 31:22, KatKent 31:36, MollyIrvine 32:30, Kaye Livingstone 33:20, Daniel Symons 35:36, Mandy Ellis 35:50, TimothyGraham 41:19, Amelie Dalton 45:00, Kristina Creighton 45:00, BjornLuxmann 46:05, Danelle Wright 46:13, Bob Duljas 47:02, Belinda Heafield 50:21, Michelle Colwell 52:02, KathyQuinn 52:02, Phillip Mayer52:14,MariekaReilly52:17, DesleyGray52:17, Des Dalton 53:02, Kylee Earl 55:00, Ian Heafield 55:43, ChesneyPodmoreNTR, GaryFox NTR, Helen WhitbyNTR. Selected results -Great Ocean Road Ultramarathon 60km: Grace Tame 04:33:08,

cero, code,coder,cope,coped, cord, core, cored, corer,coup, coupe,credo,crop, crore, croup, decor,doer,dope,doper,dour, dourer,drop, epode,erode,euro, order,ordure, pore, pored, pour, poured, pourer,prod, PROCEDURE, proceed, procure, procured, produce,producer,proud, prouder,record, recoup,recouped, redo,REPRODUCE, rode,rope, roped, roue,roup,updo,uredo

Stephen Renehan 5: 01:48, Nikki Wynd 6:00.27.Great Ocean Road ‘Marathon’44km: MariekaReilly4:46:42 Brooks Half-Marathon 23km: DesleyGray2:21:13.6, Susan Poole 2:49:43.21

Andrew Broberg.

Photograph: HayleyBatchelor

Durkin

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