May 2018

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STRATFORD TOWN CRIER INC

MAY 2018

Volume 25—No 4 ABN 61 052 673 443 ISSN 1836-3830

Facebook: Stratford Town Crier

REG No: A0052373W

Email: stratfordtowncrier@gmail.com

Editor: Leanne Dugan

Co-Editor: Shakira Dugan

Online: https://issuu.com/stratfordtowncrier/docs

2.2 What’s On In Stratford

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“I see you stand like greyhounds in the slips, Straining upon the start. The game’s afoot.”

- Shakespeare, Henry V There is much afoot in Stratford at present and there will continue to be much ado, but not about nothing, in coming months.

The streetscape refurbishment is well underway in Tyers Street. Work has recommenced on the much admired supermarket mural. Long anticipated construction has begun for a new medical facility adjacent to the pharmacy.

Works are being undertaken at the railway station to extend the platform to accommodate future additional services. A roundabout will be constructed at the McAlister Street corner as a “traffic calming” measure. That work is to commence in May, with completion due by September. At year’s end, no doubt we will look back and consider, “All’s Well That Ends Well.”

Along with major highway works either side of town, some of these activities and constructions may cause minor delays or short term inconveniences and we may sometimes wish everything could happen more quickly, but to quote Shakespeare again – “Go wisely and slowly. Those who rush, stumble and fall.”

- Romeo and Juliet.

The Shakespeare Festival committee has again worked hard to present something to appeal to everyone of every age and inclination, culminating in a fun-filled day on Sunday 6 May with the Faire Day. Then a pause for breath before we welcome visitors from England, Canada and USA for the Stratfords of the World reunion in September. What an eventful and productive 2018!

“What is the city, but the people?

True, the people are the city.”

- William Shakespeare, Coriolanus Judy Donoghue

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incidents occurred in McMillan Street over the Easter weekend: Offenders tried to gain access to two sheds by attempting to jemmy open the locks. They did not get inside but a trailer was stolen from outside one of the sheds.

Offenders stole a chainsaw, golf clubs and an angle grinder from the back of a ute. The canopy on the ute was believed to have been locked and it is unclear how the offenders gained access to it.

There were no serious injury collisions reported over the holiday period but one male suffered minor injuries when he collided with another vehicle at the intersection of Airly Road and Princes Highway. It is a timely reminder to exercise extra care with all of the road works in the area at the moment.

Richard Chrisp

ant to be more involved with your local community? Stratforward is a group of community focussed individuals, residents, traders and community members who are Inspired by Stratford!

We are a Community Representative Group who are passionate about our little piece of Central Gippsland and want to share our gifts with the greater community.

Stratforward is open to all and invites interested members of the community to come along and discuss issues that matter to you. It’s an opportunity to be part of the drive to better promote Stratford, to locals and visitors alike!

The committee has a direct connection with the Wellington Shire Council and regional tourism bodies and is a hub to learn about and discuss developments and decisions that affect us all.

Stratforward meets @ 7.00pm on the first Wednesday of every month. The next meeting will be held at Badger & Hare, 20 Tyers Street but subsequent meetings will be held in the Stratford Mechanics Hall Supper Room (please enter from Raymond St.) We would love to see some fresh faces!

Liz Whitehill

STRATFORD ARTS TRAIL

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Have a game of tennis at Llowalong Road Check out what’s in the main street Check what’s on at the Stratford Courthouse Theatre Play on the numerous playgrounds around town Go for a ride on the Rail Trail

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What To Do? Walk or drive the Arts Trail Kayak at Weirs Crossing Visit the Historical Society Have a picnic at the Knob Reserve & checkout the Lookout

• • • • •

What’s On? WEDNESDAY 2 May, Stratforward Meeting @ 7.00pm Badger & Hare TUESDAY 8 May, Neighbourhood Watch Meeting MONDAY 14 May, RSL Ladies Auxiliary Meeting @ 2.00pm MONDAY 28 May, Stratford Historical Society @ 7:30pm Museum FRIDAY 1 June, Singer Songwriters @ 6:30pm Stratford Courthouse Theatre

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STRATFORD MONTHLY RAINFALL FROM THE BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY FEB/17

MAR/17

APR/17

MAY/17

JUN/17

JUL/17

AUG/17

SEP/17

OCT/17

NOV/17

DEC/17

JAN/18

FEB/18

MAR/18

32.3

57.6

55.9

10.7

13.8

17.9

43.5

16.1

63.7

58.4

27.4

59.3

21.9

14.8

2017 = 436.6

2016 = 592.9

2015 = 593.3

2014 = 647.2

2013 = 558.6

2012 = 693.0

2011 = 773.9

3.3 Community Groups

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e are looking forward to the Shakespeare Faire Day on Sunday 6 May and serving you some of our delicious homemade scones and also welcoming you into the Museum and George’s Shed to see all the exhibits, as we are sure there is something of interest for everyone.

This is our main fundraising event for the year and a gold coin donation would be appreciated to enter the Museum.

George’s Shed has an interesting new display of “rural/ domestic” life in Colonial times.

Have a look at our scale model of a bark hut which shows glimpses of the 1800’s including the “outhouse”!

Amongst our special displays, we are most grateful to have received a 1926 large team photo from the Stratford Football Club adding to our sporting

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ur picture shows the Memorial Garden on our “Saluting Our Heritage” day 3 years ago. Poppies were made by individuals all around the country.

Thank you to 2 special friends of the community for making the extra poppies which were on display at the cemetery front gate over the Anzac week. The small knitted and crocheted poppies are reminders of individuals who gave their lives in service. More than 120 former service men and women are buried at the Stratford Cemetery. The Australian flag and the poppies displayed in the week around Anzac and Remembrance Day give passers by an opportunity to reflect on the

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display. This photo was awarded to the Vice Captain M.W. Coloe for 23 years of service and it has individual photos of all the players and the Committee. Did you know that our Facebook page “Stratford Museum” has 593 followers?

Who will be the lucky 600th?

Daniel Parker-Estoppey has set up a “shop” with a vast list of our publications and all the prices. He is also collating a page on “Gippsland Convicts” and already 157 have been identified and this research is still ongoing.

As you are probably aware we have a very active and enthusiastic team at the Historical Society who are always working on our increasing collection of memorabilia and collecting information on the local area. We are very happy to share this with the Community whenever they visit the Museum.

The next meeting will be held at the Museum on Monday 28 May at 7.30pm.

Jane Spice significance of the Defence Force members. As traffic has been going past the cemetery at a much slower speed, and the road verge has been cleared, the Avenue of Honour Memorial Stone has been given greater prominence. In case you have never stopped to read it, this is the inscription The Avenue of Honour Memorial Stone replaces the trees of the original Avenue of Honour which was planted between Stratford and Sale in memory of those from the district who served in World War One. The official opening of the Stratford section of the Avenue of Honour was held on the 1st September 1918. This stone replaces the trees of the original Avenue of Honour, planted as a bond between the townships of Sale and Stratford, in memory of those locals who served in the Great War. Our own Avenue of Honour inside the cemetery is gradually taking shape and we appreciate the advice and support we have received from the Wellington Shire in assisting with the establishment, care and maintenance of the kurrajongs.

Margaret Robbins

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s the Commonwealth Games came to an end on Sunday the next big event was the Lions Peanut Games. The Lions Clubs of Briagolong and Stratford had their annual games night, on Tuesday 17 April, to compete for the Peanut Trophy. It was a fun night and we started the evening with supper of pizzas, garlic bread and drinks to get us into the right mood. There were 10 players from each side with interchange players stepping in because of the high energy levels required for the games played. The games included Indoor bowls, Table tennis, Darts, Pool, Quoits and Hookey.

At the end of the evening Stratford Lions Club were the winners and retained the Peanut

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etball was back in April with our first game being the local battle with Boisdale on a day too hot for netball. The new U15 team proved too strong for Boisdale and had a great win 44 -14, best on were Sierra Cook, Skyla White and Piper Sellings.

U17 was a close contest with Stratford winning by 2 goals with best on awarded to Prue Nowak and Elly Jorgensen. The girls in C and D Grades overran Boisdale with huge wins, C Grade winning 57-12 best on were U17 players Lani Aurisch and Bronwyn Bacon.

D Grade won 42-25 best on Shantelle Kennedy-Hills and Amy Zabenah. B Grade had a very tight match all game and narrowly lost 22-24 best on Payton Albrecht and Prue Nowak and in A Grade a new look Boisdale team proved too strong over the up and coming Stratford team 33-47, best were stalwarts of the team Sarah Bishop and Kiana Minchin. It was a great start to the season with many spectators turning out to watch some great netball.

Last week we made the big trip to Orbost and were lucky enough to avoid most of the terrible weather that was across the state. Again the Under 15 team

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Trophy for the second year in a row. Profits from the evening were donated to the Briagolong Hall.

Paul Wager

Photo of Paul Wager and Jessie Walker starting the Peanut games

came out firing in the first game and claimed victory 30-21, best on Charlotte Runciman and Lily Jorgensen. The under 17 team had a slow start but with Ebony Lee on fire in defence they managed to make up a 9 goal deficit in the last quarter to lose by 1 goal 25-26, best were Ebony Lee and Georgia Russell. D Grade were pretty much goal for goal all game and came in with a Draw 27-27 best were Olivia Lemon and Tegan Adams.

C Grade again were too strong for their opposition winning 26-17 with Merran Bradley and Megan Lascelles best on. With Alyce Schilg back in B Grade they easily accounted for Orbost 37-24, best on Kym Albrecht & Alannah Boyd. A grade had a fantastic game with 46-41 loss in very windy conditions. With Stratford fielding many young players in A grade they were very happy with a narrow loss to the reigning Premiers.

This years coaches are A grade Merran Bradley, B Grade Geordie Rowley, C Grade Mel Dean, D Grade Sarah Bishop, 17's Sandy Slattery and 15's Emma Nowak. We have numerous experienced players stepping up to assist in coaching and assistant coaching roles and it great to see all the players supporting everyone no matter what Grade they are in.

Go Stratty.

Emma Nowak

4.4 Sporting Articles

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ad to report that our green has been closed for the past month. The damage done by the corellas had to be assessed and insurance clauses investigated.

Members are realising what a social centre our club is in the daily lives of so many. The repairs or replacement will take place as soon as all avenues of funding the best possible future surface have been completed.

Other local clubs are welcoming Stratford members to their greens and the winter round of soup days will be in full swing in May. Our club presentation night will take place on Sunday 29 April. It is pleasing to report that the men’s fours winners from Stratford

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(Pictured left to right Keith Sargison John Marshall Alan Beechey Ian Johns) won the North Gippsland Mens Champion Fours at West Sale before Easter. Wild wind and difficult conditions didn’t deter the determination of the team to take out the title. Winning their first game against Rosedale, and their second game against Maffra, Stratford led all the way in the

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ection 2 WGTA Seniors grand final was played on Saturday 26 March at Maffra between Stratford and Sale Young Guns. Stratford ended up winning and went through the year undefeated.

Congratulations to Emma Nowak, Irene Deviser, Rhianna Gordon, Jenny White, Mark Kennedy, Josh Kennedy, Ray Weber and Daryl Cooper.

Nick Bauer is offering numerous tennis coaching programs at Stratford as below.

Toddler Tennis is a program designed for 2-4 year old’s. $50 for 5 weeks and incudes a free racquet.

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he Junior Football Season kicked off on 22 April and this year we have again increased the number of youngsters at our Club. This season we will have 2 Under 10 teams. This is fantastic news for our Club’s future and great reward for the time and effort put into the Auskick program from Matt Battley and his helpers. Glenn Aeschlimann will again coach the Under 10’s with Ben Halligan helping out. What is great to see is the number of Parents who are rolling up their sleeves and giving their time to assist.

The Under 12’s have a full side to choose from each week and with some new faces around they are looking like having a great year.

Ray Giddings is back to coach this group of Kids and we are looking forward to watching them grow over the season. The Under 12’s are

final against West Sale to taken the title by 12 shots.

Hopefully the Commonwealth Games inspired people to give lawn bowls a go. The old idea of bowls being taken up as a sport when you are too old for anything else is being challenged. The stories of the women’s gold medal winning team of Kelsey Cottrell, 28; Carla Krizanic,28; Rebecca van Asch, 29; and Natasha Scott, 27; are about starting the game as teenagers and rising to the national teams in their 20’s.

When our green is back in action, come and give it a go. And to support our ongoing fundraising, a reminder that there are jackpots to be won at Bingo every Friday night. Bring your friends for a social night out.

Margaret Robbins

BIOfit is a fast paced fun 1 hr fitness class on a tennis court with music pumping. Open for anyone High School & Adult Male or Female. $15 per casual session or $80 for 8 weeks. Hot Hits is an introductory coaching program playing plenty of fun games in a 1 hr class with a number of coaches. $5 per week Rookie, Little Legend and Private coaching is also available on a weekly basis. It is here that we closely focus on stroke production and technique.

Current Coaching sessions BIONIC TENNIS COACHING Stratford Timetable Term 2 2018 Tuesday morning 9am Toddler Tennis 9.30am BIOfit (Cardio Tennis) Wednesday 3.45pm Rookies Group 4.15pm Rookies Group 4.15pm - 5.15pm Hot Hits 4.45pm - 5.15pm Rookies Group 5.15 - 6pm Little Legends 6.30pm Ladies Group Coaching Friday 9.30am - 10am Toddler Tennis If interested please contact Nic on 0409692852 Daryl Cooper a very exciting bunch with some highly skilled youngsters taking the park each week.

Dale Pendergast will again lead the Under 14’s and it’s amazing to see the height changes from last season with all of them. I’ve even heard of footy boot sizes all the way up to 15!! With a few disappointing departures of Stratty Kids, we were looking a bit light on a month ago, but an influx of new Kids to the town and surrounds has seen our side blossom to ensure we will have an extended bench through the season. The team has been improving every year and this year will be no exception.

We are looking forward to another very successful season with plenty of laughs, goals and speccys to be had.

Go Stratty!!!

Mark Nicholls

5.5 Games & Community News

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crossword

ANSWERS PG 10

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ANBURY CAKES

Banbury Cakes were a traditional Elizabethan currant filled pastry. Here is a poem about them and a contemporary version of the recipe.

The Cupboard I know a little cupboard With a teeny tiny key, And there’s a jar of lollypops For me, me, me.

It has a little shelf, my dear, As dark as dark can be, And there’s a dish of Banbury Cakes For me, me, me.

By Walter de la Mare

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number of important research and planning projects have been taking place at the Knob Reserve in recent months to help us better understand and protect the site’s significant natural and cultural values.

Firstly, independent environmental consultants Oates Environmental Consulting were engaged by the Knob Reserve Committee of Management Inc. in partnership the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority to develop a vegetation survey, traditional vegetation usage report and action plan for the reserve with funding from the Federal Government’s National Landcare program.

Drawing on research and findings from the initial vegetation survey conducted during the summer months, the draft Traditional Plant Use report contains detailed ethnobotanical analysis and traditional uses for over 70 species located at the reserve, bringing together both academic and traditional Gunaikurnai knowledge to inform an action plan which is now being produced to help guide the future

Recipe 1/3 cup butter 1/3 cup brown sugar 1 egg 1 ½ cups currants ½ cup candied orange peel ¼ cup ground almonds ½ tspn grated nutmeg ½ tspn ground cinnamon ¼ tspn ground cloves ¼ tspn ground mace 400 grams puff pastry Preheat the oven to 200C. Cream butter and brown sugar and beat in one by one the egg, currants, orange peel, almonds and spices. Roll the puff pasty thinly and cut out circles 12cm in diameter. Place 2 tblspns filling in circle centres. Brush the edges with a little milk and gather the edges together, patting them to seal.

Turn over and place on a baking sheet and cut a small slit in the top of each cake. Brush with milk and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. management and preservation of important vegetation at the site. The Committee has recently received a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) summary report from independent consultant Jo Bell Heritage Services Pty Ltd, assessing the likely impact of current and future site usage on Aboriginal cultural heritage values and proposing management conditions for the site designed to protect those values.

The CHMP summary report identifies twelve Aboriginal places at the reserve, mostly scarred trees along with an artefact scatter and grinding grooves.

A final version of the Gunaikurnai and Victorian Joint Management Plan is also close to being completed, taking on board feedback received during the public consultation process late last year. We will keep the community informed about the status of the plan during the coming months.

Daniel Miller Interim Chair, Knob Reserve Committee of Management Inc.

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6.6 Primary Schools

STRATFORD TOWN CRIER INC Stratford Town Crier INC School Open Day - Thursday 10 May St Patrick’s P.S. will be open to the public on Thursday 10 May for prospective parents seeking enrolment for their child for the 2019 school year. All visitors and friends are welcome to attend the school open day. The tour guides for the day will be students from the Yr 5/6 classroom. For more information please contact the school Principal on 5145 6463.

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tations of the Cross - Wednesday 28 March The whole school gathered in St Patrick’s Church for the Stations of the Cross as part of Holy Week. The students were led through a special presentation that linked Jesus’ last days of living to current day living.

Parents & Friends Easter Raffle On the last day of term 1 Thursday 29 March the school community gathered in the multi purpose room for the annual easter egg raffle.

Hayley Halligan thanked the school community for their wonderful generosity of donating so many easter eggs. The school was able to raise over $700 and this money will be used to purchase valuable learning resources for the school. The school would like to thank the Parents & Friends Committee for organising this special event and congratulate all the families who won an Easter prize: Annear’s, Pendergast, MacGregor, Lam, Sears, Bartlett, Duncan, Clutterbuck, Barberio, Harrington, Fischer, Nicholls and Fr Peter Bickley.

Swimming Program - Prep students This term the students in Year Prep will participate in a swimming program at Kemp’s Aquatics in Maffra. The students will participate in 8 lessons on a Monday and Thursday. The sessions will commence at 12.30pm and finish at 1.30pm.

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hanks to everyone who supported our student leader Easter raffle. A fantastic sum of $450 was raised to go towards having new games painted on the asphalt.

Students recently voted on what to have painted and are looking forward to having two four square games, a twister and a super-sized chessboard on the playground. As well as raising fund for the school student leaders raised money for the Royal Childrens’ Hospital.

Our grade 5/6 students enjoyed a week away at the Woorabinda camp. In the last week of term one

Catholic Education Week - 27 April - 4 May Our school, along with the 43 other Catholic schools in the Diocese of Sale, will celebrate Catholic Education Week from 27 April to 4 May. The theme for this year’s celebrations is “Come and See’”. As Catholic schools, we are called to do more than just pass on the faith: we are invited to translate our faith into deeds so we are truly living God’s Word. Catholic Education Week is an opportunity for all Catholic schools to celebrate our distinctive mission and share features that are special about our schools. Members of our staff will be attending the Leadership Mass and Dinner held in Traralgon on Friday, 27 April. Our school will also hold a number of activities including attending the “ Peace Mass” at Bishop Phelan’s Stadium in Sale.

Grandparents Day - Wednesday 23 May St Patrick’s will hold a special event on Wednesday 23 May, inviting all Grandparents and special friends. A celebrationary Mass for our grandparents and friends will be held at 9.00am followed by morning tea and a visit to the classrooms.

they joined with 5/6 students from Boisdale Consolidated School to build their perseverance, courage, co-operative skills and resilience while enjoying the camp out, flying fox and night walk – amongst many other experiences.

The camp program also helps build friendships that could carry on to secondary schools.

We would like to invite any prospective families to attend one of our Enrolment Tours on Wednesday 2 May. Tours will take place at 9.30 and 2.30 and will last about 45 minutes. Bookings are essential so please contact the school on 5145 6554 to be added to the list. The tour will be an introduction to the school with opportunities to speak with current parents, students and staff and to have a glimpse of what goes on in the classrooms.

Debra Nicholls

School Cross Country - Wednesday 2 May On Wednesday 2 May the school will hold its annual school cross country to be held at the Knob Reserve in Stratford. The first event will be held at 12.00pm and families and friends are most welcome to attend.

ANZAC Day March - Wednesday 25 March Staff, students, families and friends are invited to join the Stratford community in the very special ANZAC Day March on Wednesday 25 March. Everyone is asked to gather at BP service station in town at 8.45am and all students are to be dressed in their full winter school uniform.

Damian Hogan

7.7 Primary Schools

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Sale Police & Stratford Neighbourhood Watch representatives came to talk about bike safety during Ride2School Day. Some students and staff had their bikes labelled for security. The police said it was important for bikes to be maintained properly, with working brakes, safe handle bars (including covered ends) and pumped-up tyres. Helmets also needed to be fitted and worn correctly. They also talked about safety in cars and reminded students that it was safest for children to sit in the back seats

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he season has started well for the Stratford Football & Netball Club with the senior football team on top of the ladder and undefeated after two rounds.

A big crowd turned up for the club’s first home game against Boisdale-Briagolong for the club’s Sponsors day. Stratford got over the line to win the first round of the “Battle of the Avon” trophy by seven points in a high standard and tightly fought contest. Lewis Bolton played a sterling game on Stratford’s half back line in a solid team effort.

In round two Stratford travelled to Orbost for a big win over Orbost-Snowy Rovers.

Highlight of this game was Patrick Gordon’s 10 goals from full forward.

The reserves match was called off 15 minutes in to the first quarter when young Orbost Snowy Rovers player Tristan Watkins suffered a spinal injury and an ambulance was called to the ground. The good news is that Tristan avoided permanent damage to his spine and has been released from hospital. The reserves had got off to a good start in this game and were disappointed that the game was called off but player safety is paramount in these circumstances.

of cars until age 12.

Using car seats was also safest until students were 7 years old or heavy enough to use a seat belt correctly.

The school was awash with orange late in March as everyone dressed to celebrate our multicultural society and recognise differences amongst ourselves for Harmony Day. Students learnt some fun games from other countries.

Work will commence this term on the extension of our Administration building. This will provide the school with new meeting rooms that Allied Support staff can use when working with individual students. Since our enrolments have increased and a third class was introduced the school has been lacking adequate private meeting facilities. A servery window will also be installed to be used on special food days and a security upgrade will occur.

Training has been difficult due to many of the ground lights being out of action. Stratford has a big problem with a resident mob of Corellas who take great delight in destroying anything electrical or to do with sport! An insurance claim has been processed with the Wellington Shire and they should be back working soon.

Stratford’s Under 18 team has started the season quite well amid some controversy with some club’s wanting the age level changed to Under 17 after the start of the season. A motion was put forward by other clubs but rejected at league level.

Every Thursday night the club room offers bar facilities and fantastic meals for $10.00. If you have nothing on come down for a social chat and a great meal.

To stay up to date with Football Netball activities, like us on Facebook on Stratford Football Netball Club supporters Facebook page and join the Stratford Football Netball Club (Closed group) Facebook page. You will need to request to be a member which should take a couple of hours to be approved.

During the Shakespeare Festival the Stratford Historical Society will be featuring a special display on the Stratford Football Netball Club memorabilia. Please go and have a look, you won’t be disappointed.

Daryl Cooper

Thank you to all who supported our Easter raffle. $447 was raised.

Winners were: 1st - Matt White, 2nd - Lauchlan Overy, 3rd - Pam Brasher, 4th Brander family, 5th - Michael Hughes, 6th - Susan Mattson.

May is home to Education Week (20-26). Visitors are welcome to Airly Primary School throughout the year, not just during this highlighted week. Interested families may call by to see what we offer at our small rural school. The school’s phone number is 5149 8251 or website: www.airlyps.vic.edu.au Brenda Talbot

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n 24 February the unit along with CFA attended Stratford Holy Trinity Church Faire.

Later that day we were called to the Freestone Creek Road where a 4 WD had driven off the road. It was between the road and the creek. The occupants were very lucky with only minor injuries.

March started with a joint display, with Sale, Loch Sport and Maffra units of vehicles and rescue vehicles and equipment in the Clocktower Mall in Sale. We also attended another joint PR day in Heyfield later in the month and a display at Stratford Market. On the long weekend the members gave away drinks and biscuits at ‘Driver Reviver’ in Memorial Park Stratford.

Call-outs in March. Early in the month, we attended a tragic crash in Newry. Later in the month there were some strong winds which resulted in calls for assistance to roof damage in

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he Birdie Project update.

The sculpture for the southeast corner of the Stratford Memorial Park has been approved by Wellington Shire Council. It will be a permanent reminder of the women who fought to establish an important facility for infant health. We want it to be interactive with words surrounding motherhood pressed into the arms of the sculpture as well as a plaque honouring the old health centre and the associations that were housed there. We would love and need your support to raise

Stratford, for a tree on the Princes Highway at Munro and another one on the Munro Stockdale Road. Late in the month, members attended a road crash at Riverslea. Also the unit helped with a search for missing people in the ‘Billy Goat Track’ area. Members also carried out many hours of training throughout March. Over 200 hours of chainsaw, road crash rescue and general rescue were completed.

April - Call outs were to a 4 WD drive which had rolled over on the foreshore of Lake Glenmaggie.

A week later and members were called to assist VicPol and Maffra SES to rescue some people whose vehicles had become stranded by the changed weather conditions north of Seaton.

David Smith

the final money for the project. We really want everyone to have ownership of our Birdie sculpture!

You can contribute at https://pozible.com/project/thebirdie-project or contact Gillian on 0410 598 922 or email gillianshaig@gmail.com Gillian Haig

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hese past few weeks I have marveled at the persistence, strength and courage of the athletes at the Commonwealth Games. Their determination and drive is incredible, but this year I have noticed the athletes congratulating one another, no matter what place they finished.

It must take great strength to do that, and to see the para-athletes competing alongside the able bodied is great. The fact that all athletes have trained hard and made many sacrifices to get their place on the team is an achievement in itself. These athletes have already “won gold”, no matter what happens next.

That brings me to my next topic. This piece was written by me a few years ago to practice my persuasive writing techniques and it is one of the topics I have grown to face over the years. I am not competitive, but have always “had a go” when it comes to school sports carnivals.

I strongly feel that it is unnecessary that going on to compete at higher levels is compulsory if you manage to make it through.

In the eyes of someone who isn’t very

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hakespeare Stratford is a nice little town, and every year there is a Shakespeare theme wandering the air. To go along with that comes a magical festival filled with stalls and little plays performed throughout the day. The primary schools combine their year sixes every year and they get together to perform one of Shakespeare's plays. I was grateful to have the opportunity 2 years ago and it was quite the experience. You stand on the stage, the lights shining on you, with the audience clapping at the end of each scene, it's definitely something. This becomes a great opportunity for every Stratty kid, it gives them a little more confidence knowing that if they can perform a play in front of a community, then surely they can conquer the crowd of high

competitive, a sporting carnival can be extremely unenjoyable. If I “step out”, others get the opportunity to have a go. Just ask some of my friends, they love making their parents proud by representing their school. I’d rather they feel good, than me feeling bad.

One year, at the second round of cross country, I helped a Heyfield stranger keep going. She was in front of me the whole way but she was noticeably struggling. She kept sprinting then stopping, over and over until she finally gave up and walked. When I caught her up I said, “Come on, keep running I’ll run with you.” So we ran for a bit then finally stopped for a short walk. We exchanged names and thoughts on cross country then we ran again till just before the finish, where I slowed to let her get ahead. That’s what I am proud of from that day, not the place I finished, that does not matter to me, but the fact that I helped someone finish the race made it all worth while.

The atmosphere from the Commonwealth Games is what should be remembered.

Ellie Macgregor

school. In the end it's heart-warming knowing you've pleased an audience. A big shout out to Anita Hensen and Rachael Nicholls who have both always done a great job at choreographing the plays.

It’s takes a lot of time and patience but it’s definitely worth it. This year they are busy rehearsing Romeo and Juliet.

My sister Julia will be performing in it so be sure to get your tickets and support a wonderful community event.

“It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves” -William Shakespeare.

Anzac Day I wrote my blog on Anzac Day last year and I would just like to take a minute to recognise our people who fought for our country and freedom.

We will remember them, Lest we forget.

Ella-Rose Spence

QUOTES FROM THE PLAYS 1.

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What was the name of Shakespeare’s wife?

How many sonnets did Shakespeare write?

How many times does suicide occur in Shakespeare’s plays?

What is the name of Shakespeare’s theatre?

Which of Shakespeare’s plays is the shortest?

Which of Shakespeare’s plays is the longest?

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“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players” “If music be the food of love play on” “Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown” “To thine own self be true” “All that glisters is not gold” “The course of true love never did run smooth” 1. Anne Hathaway, 2. 154, 3. Thirteen, 4. The Globe, 5. The Comedy of Errors, 6. Hamlet—QUOTES 1. As You Like It, 2. Twelfth Night, 3. Henry IV, 4. Hamlet 5. The Merchant of Venice, 6. A Midsummer Night’s Dream

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9.9 Church Articles & Letters To The Editor

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he Stratford Station upgrade is all but complete. The station has been extended by 30 metres.

When the new bridge is completed we will no doubt be getting an improved service with more modern trains.

Gavan Donoghue

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nce again thank you Stratford and district for your wonderful support for the GOOD FRIDAY APPEAL. The magnificent amount of $12,000 was raised this year. I would like to thank the Stratford Fire Brigade for their help, as well all the other collectors. My next fund raiser will be my trip to Merimbula. If you are interested in coming could you please contact contact me on 5145 6861 Val Mildenhall

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n the Christian community, the season of Easter continues. At St Andrew’s we had a short reflective service on Good Friday, which was followed by a joyous celebration of Christ’s resurrection on Easter Day. We are told in Holy Scripture that Christ appeared several times to his disciples after the resurrection and we believe that Christ continues to appear in the hearts and minds of all who would be the disciples of this age.

Celebration of Ministry Rev Sandra Houghton, minister of Maffra Uniting Church, was farewelled on Sunday 15 April as she retired. Several from St Andrew’s were among many who came to celebrate her faithful ministry.

Aged Care Ministry This month, worship leaders from St Andrew’s will not visit Stretton Park and McDonald Wing to lead worship, as their designated day falls on Anzac Day. UCAF In May, members are looking forward to taking a heritage cruise on the Rubeena, journeying along the Sale canal and Thomson River from the Port of Sale. We shall enjoy

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e recently learned that Bishop Manasseh Gahima had now been granted a visa for his visit to Australia. The parish was now able to look forward to his visit and a mission luncheon to welcome him and learn more about his diocese and ministry in Rwanda was held on Thursday 19 April. An insight into the work of the church in this part of Africa, was most enlightening. At our morning service at Holy Trinity Stratford on Sunday 22 April, we welcomed Mr Don Macraild from St Andrew’s Uniting Church who spoke about the Vanuatu Eye Care Mission. This is one of the missions supported by our parish and we learned that it is very much a holistic mission providing much more than eye care.

The Shakespeare Festival – again we were involved by holding an Elizabethan evensong on Sunday 22 April (the Bard’s Birthday on 23 April 1564) at 4.30 pm. Our guest preacher was the Rev’d Nikolai Blaskow, a passionate Shakespearean scholar. The service was

STRATFORD TOWN CRIER INC Stratford Town Crier INC

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would like to report that the National Council of Women, Central Gippsland Branch will be closing in May 2018. Thank you to all our loyal members who have supported us over many years, and have tried to bring to the fore women's issues and fields of interest, which have always been passed on to the Melbourne Executive.

Former members are invited to join us at our May meeting, and more information can be obtained from Jan ph 5145 6679.

Thank you, Wendy Philbey

 Private Killings Bulk Packs  Smoked Meat BBQ Packs Cooked Roast Meats ALL PRODUCTS TO THE HIGHEST QUALITY

David & Michelle Shaw

each other’s company and the scenery and wildlife of God’s beautiful creation.

Prison Outreach So many biscuits were contributed for the Prison Fellowship Biscuit Bake this year, including generous donations from St Andrew’s, that each prisoner received more biscuits than usual. We sincerely thank all who contributed to this Easter gift.

Harvest Thanksgiving In worship on 22 April, we had a special focus on giving thanks for all the food we obtain from our animals and plants. All donated food items were given to the Uniting Church Agency in Sale, ‘Uniting’, for distribution to those who are struggling.

Wednesday Games Join us for an evening of fun at 7.30 pm each Wednesday playing a variety of table games and sharing supper. Gold coin donation. New players always welcome.

Worship Services We warmly invite you to join us on Sundays for worship at 9.30am and to share fellowship afterwards over a cuppa.

Rev Barbara Strickland 5145 6927 followed by a light tea and all who attended enjoyed the food and fellowship.

Forward notice; we are holding another Trivia Night on Saturday 2 June, 7.00pm start, BYO drink, glasses and nibbles. Further details nearer the time.

Parish Diary – May Thursdays - mainly music program, 9.30am at Parish Hall recommences for Term 2 Fri Morning Prayer- 8.30am, at Holy Trinity Sun 6 Sixth Sunday of Easter Thurs 10 Ascension Day Sun 13 Seventh Sunday of Easter, Week of Prayer for Christian Unity starts and Mothers Day Sun 20 Pentecost Sunday, Week of Prayer for Christian Unity ends Mon 21 -Sun 27 Volunteers Week Sun 27 Holy Trinity Patronal Festival.

Gail Wager Parish of Avon – All Saints Briagolong, Dargo District, St Mary’s Munro, Holy Trinity Stratford. More news and service times on our parish web site: www.avonanglican.org.au

BARRY & ANNETTE LETT FUNERAL DIRECTORS Care, compassion and service With dignity, for the people of Gippsland 67 Macarthur Street, Sale, 3850

Tel: 5143 1232

Member Australian Funeral Directors Association Email:bja-lett@nex.net.au

Sratford Library Opening Hours

Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10.00am - 1.30pm 3.00pm - 6.00pm Saturday: 10.00am - 12.00pm Closed Tuesday, Thursday & Sunday

STRATFORD AUTHORISED NEWSAGENCY For all your Stationery, Cards, Magazines & Papers Agents for McCarthy Drycleaners We offer a quality Fax/Photocopy Service:

5145 6225

10 10.

Reference Page 2018 COPY FOR JUNE 2018 ISSUE Deadline for ARTICLES and ADVERTISING

STRATFORD TOWN CRIER INC Stratford Town Crier INC EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS Stratford Police 5145 6404 Emergency Calls 000 Stratford Fire Brigade Urgent Fire Calls 000

WEDNESDAY, 23 MAY 2018 by 5.00 pm Delivery starts 31 MAY 2018 Articles and adverts are to be submitted to: Leanne Dugan, Editor at: 1-3 Bolden Street, Stratford

For more information phone: Sale Railway station 5144 2042 or V/Line 1800 800 007 6am to midnight, or visit V/Line.com.au.

Effective from 27 August 2017.

Leaving Stratford going to Melbourne Monday – Friday

5.15am(bus) 6.44am 1.19pm 3.50pm(bus) 6.48pm Saturday 7.04am 12.56pm 5.11pm Sunday 8.16 am 1.35pm(bus) 5.11pm

Arriving from Melbourne in Stratford Monday – Friday

10.34am 12.05pm(bus) 4.30pm 8.30pm(bus)

Saturday Sunday

10.35am 11.05am

3.06pm 2.20 pm(bus)

9.44pm

9.26pm 9.26pm

Note: Where bus is indicated, bus is only to or from Sale or Traralgon and the remainder of the journey to or from Melbourne is by train.

Please check your times with Vline.

Stratford to Sale

AM

Senior Citizens (Cnr Niel & McFarlane Sts)

10.00

Hobson St—V/Line

10.03

Sale-Gippsland Centre

10.15

Sale—Hospital (Request)

10.20

PM

All articles must have a contact name and phone number.

All payments to: The Treasurer Stratford Town Crier: P.O. Box 70, Stratford VIC 3862 ADVERTISING RATES 1/2 Business Card - 3.0 x 8.4cm B/W 1/2 Business Card Requested Colour Business Card - 6.0 x 8.4cm B/W Business Card Requested Colour Double Business Card - 12.0 x 8.4cm B/W Double Business Card Requested Colour 1/4 Page - 9.25x26.0/18.5x13.0cm/8.4X28.63 B/W 1/4 Page Requested Colour

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Proudly supports the Stratford Town Crier.

Sale to Stratford Sale-Hospital (Request)

2.20

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2.30

Stratford

2.45

LOCAL CLUBS & ORGANISATIONS Anglican Parish of Avon Parish Hall Bookings - Denise Vranek 5145 6355 or 0417 100 047 Australian Caravan Club (East Gippsland Branch) Dennis Carstairs 0428 252 759 Badminton Club Gladys Tatterson 5145 6255 Avon Indoor Recreation Centre Debra Nicholls 5145 6554 Avon Landcare Group Harry Hof 5145 6379 Beth Ripper 0427 456 094 Ben Cruachan Walking Club Beth Kilpatrick 5145 6595 Country Women’s Association Maureen Paliew 5145 6834 NCWV Central Gippsland Branch Jan Baxter 5145 6679 North Gippsland Legacy Jim Langskaill 5145 7021 Prospectors and Miners Association Graham Watt 5145 6701 AH Segue Community Arts Cafe 0413 647 557 Shakespeare Association Gavin Prior 5145 6845 / 0427 393148 Southern Tae-Kwon-Do Academy Gerry Laughton 5141 1429

Phone: 0419 518 277 Email: stratfordtowncrier@gmail.com Facebook: Stratford Town Crier

Disclaimer ~ All Articles and Advertising submitted are accepted in good faith but can be altered at the Editor’s discretion. No responsibility is accepted for any misrepresentation.

Stratford 1st Scouts & Cub Group Bev Richard 0419 261 825 Stratford & District Amateur Basketball Association Robyn 0417533302 / 5145 8248 Krystal 0427 288 680 / 5145 6425 Stratford & District Angling Club Mick Dee 5145 6803 Stratford & District Neighbourhood Watch Inc. Paul Wager 5145 6376 Stratford Bowls Club Bev Thatcher 5145 6380 Stratford Cemetery Trust Marg Robbins 5145 6829 Stratford Cricket Club Neil Tatterson 5145 6255 or 5145 6417 Stratford Community Market Casey 0407 046 499 Stratford Dog Agility Janet Leemon 0419 884 871 Stratford Fire Brigade David Baxter 0427 384 864 Stratford Fire Brigade Ladies Auxiliary Deidre Morris 5145 6460 Hiring Kathy Booth 5145 6497 Stratford Football Netball Club Geordie Cutler 0408 451 338 Stratford Historical Society Judy Richards 5145 6836 Marion Stothers 5145 6270

Stratford S.E.S. Emergency Calls 000 David Smith - 5145 6783 or 0407 321 214 Storm or Flood - 132500

Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre

Freecall: 1800 015 188 Sexual Assault Crisis Line Freecall: 1800 806 292 Child Protection Crisis Line: 131 278 Gippsland Region—East Gippsland 5152 0052

STRATFORD TIP OPENING HOURS Tuesday 10.30am to 5.00pm Thursday 10.30am to 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am to 12.00pm Sunday 1.00pm to 5.00pm Closed Monday, Wednesday & Friday Note: Waste Disposal Charges will apply Township waste collection day is Tuesday & Recycle Bins every 2nd Tuesday

Medical Companion Service

Travellers Aid Australia offers trained volunteer Medical Companions to meet at your train, bus, tram or taxi and guide you to and from your medical appointments.

Your companion is Free – you just have to cover your own fares.

To book (48 hours notice required) it is a Freecall: 1300 700 399 Website: www.travellersaid.org.au/our-services/ medical-companion-service

VICTORIAN JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Mr Wally Fawkner Ms Ruth Mundy

5145 6973 0414 497 068

STRATFORD MECHANICS HALL For bookings contact

Darryl - 5145 6861 Mobile 0448 514 568 Ben - 5145 6489 Mobile 0418 586 459

Stratford Junior Football Club Kate Thatcher 0488 456 012 Stratford Junior Netball Club Rachel Nicholls 5145 6677 Stratford Kindergarten Nina Adams 5145 6446 Stratford Lions Club Bill Morley, Membership 0438 430 841 Medical Equipment, Laurel Davies 5145 6489 Or 0418 586 459 Stratford Men’s Shed John Benson 5145 6330 Col Counsell 5145 6913 Stratford Play Group Michelle Boyd 5145 6252 Stratford Pony Club Inc Julie Carstairs 5145 6128 Stratford Recreation Reserve Committee Neil Tatterson 5145 6225 Lindsay Schilg 5145 6959 Stratford Red Cross Alison Rule 5145 6561, Doris Robertson 5145 6547 Stratford RSL Dennis Carstairs 5145 6128 Stratford RSL Ladies Auxiliary Jan Baxter 5145 6679 Stratford Senior Citizens Pat Turner 5145 7107

Stratford Singers Rosemary Dunworth 5148 2101 Stratford Tennis Club Inc. Mark Kennedy 5145 6683 Stratford Uniting Church John Brisbane 5145 6034 Stratford Victoria Sister Cities Kevin Waddington 5145 6657 Stratforward Judy Donoghue 0428 456 861 Trinity Treasures Op Shop Denise Vranek 5145 6355 Or 0417 100 047 Wellington Horse Riding Club Inc. Kellie Gartung 0438 456 694 To include your Organisation, contact the Town Crier (Crossword Answers)

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STRATFORD TOWN CRIER INC

11. Community Arts Groups

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egue community hub and arts cafe will be closed on Mondays for the winter period. We are looking for volunteers to help out in the gallery/arts retail space and cafe. Training available in coffee making and retail. Look us

up on Facebook - Segueinstratford Or ring Beth to have a chat.

Beth Ripper 0427 456 094

**** – “A disconcertingly powerful work.” (The Age) **** – “Finely polished, extremely accomplished and deeply moving.” (Arts Hub) Winner: 2011 Edinburgh Fringe First Award. Bookings at www.stratfordcourthouse.com.au

ELEGY

by Lab Kelpie theatre 25 May 7.30pm Some stories are more powerful than others. He’s worried his isn’t powerful enough. A young man sits alone on stage. He looks like us. He sounds like us. Yet he asks us to join him on an unimaginably alien journey into his recent past.

Both an intimate character study and an edge-of-your-seat thriller, Elegy fuses precision performance, an affecting soundscape and visual poetry to lure us into a playful, theatrical, humorous and personal world to reveal a story as powerful… as it is true ****½ – “A deeply affecting and sensitively realised account.”

(Limelight Magazine) ****½ – “Compelling theatre that touches the hearts of us all.” (Planet Arts)

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ippsland Art Gallery will be running Life Drawing Classes on Thursdays from 3 May to 24 May from 6.00pm to 8.00pm.

These classes will support beginners to more advanced students in an exploration of a variety of drawing techniques, while developing skills in direct observational drawing.

Classes will appeal to VCE students developing a folio suitable for tertiary level application, amateur drawers exploring life drawing for the first time and independent more advanced artists.

The cost to attend these Life

Stratford Town Crier INC

FILM Loving Vincent.

Thursday May 10, no booking required.

The world’s first fully oil painted feature film. The film brings the paintings of Vincent van Gogh to life to tell his remarkable story.

Every one of the 65,000 frames of the film is an oil-painting hand-painted by 125 professional oil-painters who travelled from all across the world to the Loving Vincent studios in Poland and Greece to be a part of the production. As remarkable as Vincent’s brilliant paintings, is his passionate and ill-fated life, and mysterious death.

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ur last SW night showed yet again the need for a venue and event for performers that supports and promotes original material. We get performers from all over Gippsland. Last month saw quite a few players from Bairnsdale. Organic Joe who are regular players, brought their band along and a few other players; they were excellent to watch and listen to. We had some really talented musicians perform, the general comment I hear every time from the audience is that they loved the diversity of age and material performed and the level of quality, and, it’s free entry. Last month saw a young woman Kellie Kerrin tell her story of her experience discovering her family were part of the stolen generation. She told her experience of reconnecting with her family, how that changed her life, of her travels in the Northern Territory and her connection to a land and people that are rich with culture and their stories. The audience was totally captivated, a glimpse of someone’s life that you wouldn’t normally hear about. The next Songwriter’s night is on 1 June at the Stratford Courthouse Theatre, doors open at 6.30pm.

Free entry.

Anita Hensen

Gavin Roberts

Drawing classes is $100 for four weeks or $25 per individual session and includes all basic materials. A structured series of tasks will be planned for beginner/ intermediate students, and independent more advanced students will have the option of drawing to a self-directed program, if desired. Numbers are strictly limited. For further information or bookings please contact the Gallery on 5142 3500 galleryenquiries@wellington.vic.gov.au

Lesley Scott

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ast time we spoke about John Shakespeare, Will's dad, successful business man and much respected in the community. However, we suggested that he was to fall, rather dramatically, from grace.

In a time when religion was very much a political issue and people, at least outwardly, were expected to be Anglican, evidence suggests that John, and therefore his family, were Roman Catholic, followers of the Old Faith, a very dangerous position for a family to be in. Particularly since Elizabeth's government saw Warwickshire as a stronghold of Catholicism. Perhaps of more concern to the community was the fact that he became a brogger, a freelance wool dealer, working without a license from the London Wool Staple.

Also, he was convicted of usury, charging much higher rates of interest than the law allowed. Often the young Will would accompany his father on some of his "dealing" expeditions and so he became acquainted with a wide range of people: cattle drovers, sheep stealers, unemployed labourers, pickpockets, discharged war veterans and many more. Will knew them all and his low lower class characters have voices which are direct and authentic.

John's financial situation collapsed with the fall in the wool trade. He had to mortgage many of his properties and was finally expelled from the town council in 1586. After twenty years of service to the Stratford community he faded from the scene.

However, there is much to suggest that Will's experiences, with his father are woven into many of his plays.

Bill Cotter

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12. Shakespeare On The River Festival

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tratford’s Shakespeare on the River Festival Community Play For over 27 years members of our theatre community have come together to form The Community Players. This production is at the heart of the annual Shakespeare on the River Festival, with many memorable takes on Shakespearean classics over the years.

In 2018 Joanne Watt will direct The Tempest. Jo is a dance and movement specialist with extensive experience in community theatre. She is currently coordinator of Theatrecraft Youth Unlimited for The Victorian Drama League Inc, which involves training workshops and performing experiences in intensive settings for regional youth. Joanne has had a long association with the festival touring here for many years with The Hartwell Players and last year directing the combined Stratford school’s production.

A cast of fourteen made up of youth, some familiar faces and also newcomers to the festival stage, are busy interpreting the play which is considered one the Bard’s greatest works. It is a script that is difficult to define, not falling into the genres of romance or tragedy nor is it a comedy, though it incorporates many elements of each. Despite this it remains one of Shakespeare’s most popular works.

For Prospero, time does not heal all wounds. After being usurped as the Duke of Milan by his brother, Prospero and his daughter Miranda found refuge in a small harsh and exotic land. Twelve years later, with the arrival of some unexpected shipwrecked visitors, Prospero is ripe for vengeance. A tale of revenge, forgiveness, mutiny and magic ensues.

Love, in the end, restoring the wrongs of the past. This magical tale runs until Saturday 5 May 7.30pm at The Stratford Courthouse Theatre.

Combined Stratford Schools Production Romeo & Juliet - A unique production that brings together the grade six students from Stratford Primary and St Patrick's Stratford.

This year Rachael Nicholls returns to direct 35 students in arguably Shakespeare’s most famous tale of the star crossed lovers. Over the years many of our community players and Groundwork Youth actors have had their first taste of performing on stage. Come support our Shakespearean actors of the future at The Mechanics Hall Tuesday 1 May and Thursday 3 May, 1.30pm, then an evening show at 6.00pm Friday 4 May. Shakespeare in Therapy We are excited to bring this travelling show fresh from success at Melbourne and Adelaide Fringe festivals. Death might be the end of the story for many Shakespearean characters, but it doesn’t mean the end of their emotional baggage. Welcome to the after-life group therapy session for people who have been traumatised by their playwright. There will be tears, tantrums and some insight as Desdemona, Romeo, Ophelia and others process their feelings and actions. Join them for instant coffee, cheap name tags, and overexposed feelings. Performances at The Mechanics Hall Saturday 5 May and Sunday 6 May at 2.00pm.

Limited seating for this inventive play so be sure to book.

STRATFORD TOWN CRIER INC

Stratford Town Crier INC

Stratford Faire Day Faire Day organisers are excited to announce the inaugural Shakesbeer and wine pop-up bar.

Featuring ales from local breweries Bullant and Sailors Grave, plus alcohol of the grape variety from Avon Ridge and Blue Gables Wineries.

All will be set up behind The Stratford Courthouse Theatre near the “Shakespeare Shed” in close proximity to the many food vans lining Hobson Street.

Entertainment at the pop-up bar will be provided by the Stratford Singers, Songwriters and Storytellers. All your local favourites will be on hand performing between 12.00pm and 2.00pm. There is an opportunity for open mic sessions from 10.00am - 12.00pm and again 2.00pm - 3.00pm, so come along and see Anita Hensen on the day. There will be the ever popular medieval games on the village green to keep the kids occupied. Plus a great range of arts & craft stalls, buskers, dance recitals by Leaps & Bounds Dance School and performances on the green stage featuring the Courthouse Kids and Julie Ward School of Music. The fun kicks off from 10.00am Sunday 6 May. Helen Waddington