The Great Southern Star - January 12, 2010 by The Great Southern Star

Published at Leongatha for South Gippsland

36 McCartin Street, Leongatha 3953 PHONE: (03) 5662 2294, FAX: (03) 5662 4350 ACN 006 507 580 ABN 61 318 952 541 PRINT POST 336735 10006 Email - news@thestar.com.au advertising@thestar.com.au

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PAGE 38 & 39

The Great Southern

Star

TUESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2010

PUBLISHED TUESDAY 56 PAGES

Cheating death 75 years on, ’Gatha woman reveals lucky escape from serial killer By B y Matt Dunn South Gippsland THEY say Sou child serial killer Arnold Karl K Ka rl Sodeman had a list of to kill. tthose hose he intended inten While Maure Maureen Lewis (nee Keighery) K eighery) doesn’t doesn think she was oonn it, she counts count herself lucky Sodeman’s S odeman’s wife, Bernice, did not aallow llow him to buy her h an ice cream oonn New Year’s Day Da 1935. Maureen was with the Sodeman m an family on the ssame day Arnold Ethel bbrutally rutally murdered 12-year-old 1 Belshaw B elshaw in Inverloch. Ethel was last seen buying an ice

cream from a Beach Road milk bar in the town. Maureen had travelled with the Sodemans from Leongatha, for a fun day in the sun. She was friends with the Sodemans’ one and only child, Joan, a girl of similar age. “On the day Ethel was murdered he wanted to take me for an ice cream. It could have been me that day,” she said. “I went down there with them to Inverloch on that day with the Sodemans. They lived next door. He wanted to take me for an ice cream and Mrs Sodeman wouldn’t let him take me unless he took Joan, his daughter.” Maureen wonders if Bernice Sodeman had an inkling of her husband’s penchant for murdering girls. He certainly had some form in that area, having already strangled at least two in Melbourne. Continued on page 9.

SOUTH Gippsland serial killer Arnold Sodeman, terrorized Inverloch and Leongatha in 1935, killing two young girls, and creating news headlines across the country. Maureen Lewis (pictured above) was one of two Leongatha girls lucky enough to escape Sodeman’s clutches and live to a ripe old age.

PAGE 2 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Siblings sharing: Dalyston sisters Brianna and Chelsie Norton enjoy the Lara’s Tea Party ride.

“We believe we’ve put on a ﬁne event for the centenary of Wonthaggi,” said Rosemary Loughnan, one of the organisers. The combination of variety, high standards, planning and top judges drew families and teenagers on Saturday, all of whom came early and enjoyed themselves before it became too hot. The show is so popular it attracts entries from interstate, high calibre judges, strong sponsorship and members of the Olympic squad who took part in the show jumping. Entries in the equestrian-only events held on Sunday exceeded all expectation. Rosemary complimented Bass Coast Shire staff, who had the Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve in mint condition. “We couldn’t get a better ground,” she said, “even the interstate judges said that.”

Show organisers will undertake an impact statement, to see how the event boosts the economy of Wonthaggi. Motel accommodation is booked out and Rosemary believes Wonthaggi’s take away food and drink outlets would have done a roaring trade. Details of the gate takings have not been ﬁnalised, but all indications are that the result was “very good”. There was a big carnival section, amazing motor bike stunts, an international standard wood chop contest, a medieval pageant, stalls, food, working dogs and a poultry section that attracted a staggering 300 entries, 100 more than last year. Members of the Wonthaggi and District Agricultural Pastoral and Horticultural Society who run the show, have begun the post-event clean up and put out a call for more help in coming years. “Service clubs are wonderful but we need more people to help us,” said Rosemary. Turn to page 45 for show results.

All set: Renee Reiter of Wonthaggi and mount Farleigh Ariel prepare to contest the buckskin event.

History lesson: Flynn, Sheldon and Darcey Murphy step back in time with Tristyn Smith of the Leongatha Medieval Society.

BHS2550

Fun time: Casey Lee of Wonthaggi meets Mal Patrick of The Showbag Factory.

THE Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show has once again excelled itself, pulling off a crowd pleaser in spite of the heat.

Mechanical passion: Stan Mackinder of the Bass Coast Historical Automobile Club exhibited his 1949 Ford Pilot.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 3

Farewell, Scrimshaws A MUCH loved couple was farewelled with a seemingly endless round of hugs, kisses and tears on Sunday. Salvation Army captains Martyn and Heather Scrimshaw conducted their ﬁnal service at the Leongatha corps. The army’s hall was ﬁlled with family and friends, and members of the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band, of which Martyn was musical director. The couple has relocated to Bendigo, where they will head the army’s Bendigo corps. “I do not think words can describe what the journey has been like

here,” Marytn said of his eight years in South Gippsland. “It’s been unbelievable; our family and friends, and people in the community, the bond, it’s just been wonderful.” The Scrimshaws’ replacements will be captain Claire Emerton and lieutenant Rachael Collins. They will be welcomed by the congregation on January 24.

Meant so much: Heather and Martyn Scrimshaw are farewelled by the congregation of the Salvation Army, South Gippsland.

Carbon’s shaky ground By Brad Lester MORE earthquakes could occur in South Gippsland if carbon dioxide is sequestrated in the region, opponents say.

Geosequestration – the process of storing carbon underground - could also lead to the region becoming a dumping ground for the world’s carbon. These are the concerns of two Welshpool researchers who have called on the Federal and State governments to declare their intentions for geosequestrating carbon created by the electricity industry in the Latrobe Valley. The researchers are psychotherapist Dr Chris James, who is researching the topic as part of her second PhD about community development, and friend Sue Harmer. “It’s an election year and it’s about time the politicians came down here and answered our questions,” Dr James said. “We have a shire like South Gippsland doing its utmost to make the area sustainable, but how are they meant to do that when the governments are considering introducing something like this?” Ms Harmer added: “This is beyond most people’s comprehension. They do not believe that something like this could happen here.” The pair are concerned a geosequestration plant could be built at Toora, Barry Beach or Port Welshpool, after potential carbon stor-

Researchers: Dr Chris James and Sue Harmer with documentation reinforcing their concerns about carbon sequestration. age wells were identified around Welshpool, Yarram, in the Gippsland oil and gas fields, the Latrobe Valley and East Gippsland. The sites are listed in the report, CO2 storage potential in the onshore Gippsland Basin, compiled by the Australian School of Petroleum and CO2 Cooperative Research Centre. That same report also identifies the risk of earthquakes up to 5.7 magnitude occurring between Foster and Morwell, and around Toora and Welshpool. “Many of the storage proposals are all in fault systems. You can’t do that. It’s just not good science,” Ms Harmer said. Overseas, carbon is sequestrated by massive industrial plants. The Victorian Government has called for tenders from companies to explore the Latrobe Valley and East Gippsland to assess its potential for possible carbon storage sites. Tenders close on March 5 this year. A pilot carbon storage

project in Nirranda in southwest Victoria had stored 65,000 tonnes of CO2 by October last year. The Victorian and Federal governments are also proposing to fund a seismic survey of the region south of the Gippsland oil and gas ﬁelds to ﬁnd potential carbon storage sites. While Federal and State governments were yet to inform South Gippsland Shire Council of any plans to store carbon underground in Gippsland, the council’s director of sustainability, Andrew McEwen, did not believe there was reason to worry. “I would say the risk of earthquakes is pretty small but this technology would be 10 to 20 years away and the costs of geosequestration at the moment would make it prohibitive,” he said. “Wind and solar power production would be cheaper than coal energy if the coal industry was also trying to sequestrate its carbon. “No one is going to jump into doing this and there are

studies being done by the Federal Government about the potential risks.” While Mr McEwen said the risk of more earthquakes “may be an issue”, the Gippsland Basin has been able to hold oil and gas reserves and so is largely considered secure. “I have not heard any evidence about the risk of more earthquakes because you would be putting gas into a space that was occupied by gas,” he said. A spokesperson for Australian Resources and Energy Minister, Martin Ferguson, said geosequestration does not increase the risk of earthquakes. “Nor does it present a risk to fresh water aquifers, as it will only be used in suitable geological structures capable of isolating the gases,” spokesperson Michael Bradley said. “Australian geosequestration projects, such as the Gorgon gas project, will all include the rigorous monitoring of stored gas and the surrounding environment during and following injection. “Geosequestration of gas has for many decades been used safely during production within the oil and gas sector. “In the future, the sequestering of CO2 offers a signiﬁcant opportunity to assist in meeting the challenges posed by climate change and it will be critical if Australia and other developed countries are to meet our various targets to dramatically reduce CO2 emissions.” Should stored carbon mix with groundwater used for irrigation, the water

Grave fears for missing Korumburra woman POLICE say concerns are held for the welfare of missing person Lynette Nott, a 48-year-old from Korumburra. The Bena Road resident has been missing since December 24 and was last seen walking in Jumbunna Road,

Korumburra about 3pm on that day. Lynette was last seen wearing a black tracksuit top and black tracksuit pants. Lynette is a diagnosed schizophrenic, who is alcohol dependent. Lynette’s bank accounts have not been accessed since her disappearance. She has a sister and brother from

Adelaide but is not in regular contact with them. Anyone with information helpful to police, should contact Det Sgt Ian Ricardo of Wonthaggi CIU on 5672 2761 or Leading Senior Constable Jim Brannaghan of Korumburra Police on 56551244.

Storage: the new carbon sequestration plant within Appalachian Power’s Mountaineer Power Plant, United States of America, pictured in The Charleston Gazette.

Farmers could win ANOTHER form of sequestrating carbon – terrain – could have massive environmental and economic beneﬁts to South Gippsland, the council’s director of sustainability, Andrew McEwen said. The process entails storing carbon in soil by increasing microbe activity. Microbes can eat brown coal and when mixed with coal and spread on paddocks, carbon is locked in the soil and increases pasture growth, Mr McEwen said. That alleviates dependence on conventional fertilisers, which are predicted would become carbonated and unusable, Dr James said. With massive carbon storage potential in the Gippsland Basin, Ms Harmer is concerned foreign countries will pay Australia to store their carbon here. “It will be good for our GDP (Gross Domestic Product) but not for the environment,” she said. Dr James believes sequestration plants would be built by multi-national companies, resulting in proﬁts

to become more expensive, and should the Federal Government’s Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme eventuate, farmers could sell carbon credits. Mr McEwen said 50 tonnes of carbon could be sequestrated into a hectare of soil and with carbon credits of $10 per tonne and 240,000 ha of farmland in South Gippsland, that could equate to farmers earning up to $120 million a year. The possible development of coal ﬁelds at Gelliondale, near Yarram, could contribute to the rising demand for biological fertilisers.

heading overseas. “Australia will just become a dumping ground if this is going to happen,” she said. With a professional background as a psychotherapist, Dr James does not have specialist training in sequestration but her research has proved enlightening. She believes South Gippslanders would endure psychological issues if their pristine environment became no more.

PAGE 4 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Vincent clues

By Bert van Bedaf

A LOCALLY produced documentary suggests famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh may not have died as a result of suicide and could have been murdered. According to a wide range of historical records, Vincent committed suicide in the French town of Auvers-sur-Oise, while staying with his physician Gachet, but Arawata artists John and Di Koenders have cast doubt on this. Their documentary, due for release this year, suggests that Vincent might have been killed, perhaps because of an act of omission by his brother Theo. Three years ago Dutch-born John Koenders learned that he was a descendant of Vincent. He received official notification from Holland that he was the great-great nephew of the Dutch post-impressionist, who suffered greatly from depression throughout his short life. Last year, the couple traced Vincent’s life journey through Holland, England, Belgium and France, where he lived, painted and died. They have made a documentary of their journey, accompanied by a book on their fascinating story. Titled Vincent ... the untold story of our uncle, the documentary promises to reveal new facts about Vincent’s life and death. “Who killed Vincent van Gogh?” the narrator asks. The narration continues to pose a number of questions and hypotheses, such as why was the gun never found? “Why did each person involved have a different version of the event? Why would he (Vincent) commit suicide when he was finally receiving recognition for his work? The Koenders documentary also claims Vincent shot himself in the stomach and not in the chest. “Why shoot yourself in the stomach, rather than in your head or heart? The narrator asks. Other questions arise. “Why was the bullet never removed? Why was he not taken to the hospital only six kilometres way? Why didn’t the bullet pass through him when fired at such close range?” It is at this point that the documentary casts dispersions on Theo’s brotherly motives. The documentary claims that “a combination of envy and agitations” had developed between Theo and his brother, which resulted in Vincent’s death. “Theo had supported Vincent for many

Van Gogh documentary: In a controversial documentary Arawata artists Di and John Koenders claim Dutch artist Vincent did not die as a result of suicide. years and should be commended for that, but why didn’t he help his brother as he lay dying in agony? “Why also did Theo write to Dr Cachet within two weeks of Vincent’s death to arrange an exhibition of his work and make sure in a very short time that the whole Van Gogh family signed over Vincent’s estate to him?” It is known that Theo paid Vincent a small salary, which, historians have claimed, gave him ownership of Vincent’s paintings. Records show that on July 27 1890, aged 37, Vincent walked into a wheat ﬁeld and shot himself with a revolver. There are a number of

versions, claiming he shot himself in the chest or stomach. A version by a Boston-based research group, clearly claims Vincent “shot himself in the stomach”, while others claim he shot himself in the chest towards the heart, but “the bullet had rebounded off a rib” and “it had sunk in his stomach”. Vincent survived the impact of the shot and walked to his room at a nearby inn. He died two days later with his brother Theo at his side. Shocked and saddened, Theo died six months later. The brothers were buried side by side at Auvers-sur-Oise cemetery.

Funds towards books

LAST year’s Coal Creek Literary Festival, held on October 10, raised almost $900 towards the Talking Books program of Vision Australia.

Coal Creek co-ordinator Rowena Ashley handed over a cheque of $899 to Skylie Garwood, VA’s community fundraising ofﬁcer, last Thursday. The organisation for the visually impaired was so pleased with the fund-raising effort that Ms Garwood presented Ms Ashley with a painting created by a trainee Seeing Eye Dog. VA recently merged with Seeing Eye Dogs Australia, which enabled the gift. It represents the paw prints of Biscuit, a three-year old golden retriever being trained to one day become the eyes of a blind person. Ms Ashley was so impressed with the artwork that she promptly offered Ms Garwood an exhibition at the Coal Creek Community Gallery.

Flying off shelves THE old Leongatha Courthouse was full of books – and people – for the annual January sale of second hand volumes.

Art for funds: Rowena Ashley handed over an $899 cheque to Vision Australia community funds raising ofﬁcer Skylie Garwood, who presented her with a thank-you painting, created by a trainee guide dog.

The sale is a major fundraiser for the Friends of Leongatha Library, who use the money to buy equipment and items for the library. Displayed in boxes around the court room were cookery books, children’s books, novels, ﬁction aplenty, the work of popular writers old and new and classics such as Jane Austen’s Emma. There were war stories too and a book about Winston Churchill with splendid photographs of he of the bushy eyebrows and fearsome scowl. That book is now with the Leongatha RSL research collection, which will be available to the public when the sub branch’s library opens a little later in the year.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 5

Call for pipi ban By Bert van Bedaf THE pipi population in Venus Bay may be close to extinction, following extensive harvesting in recent years.

A Venus Bay property owner has called for a moratorium on pipi harvesting to avoid a total wipe-out of the species after disputing statements by the Department of Primary Industries that most pipi harvesters on local beaches are complying with the new regulations. Last Thursday, Fisheries Victoria executive director Anthony Hurst issued a statement saying he was “pleased by the high level of compliance with fishing regulations. “The vast majority of people collecting pipis over the Christmas period in the Venus Bay area have been doing the right thing and adhering to the reduced bag limit for pipis introduced in (May 25) 2009,” Mr Hurst said. “In Cape Liptrap Coastal Park (which includes Venus Bay beaches) a reduced catch limit of up to two litres (reduced from five litres) of pipi in the shell or 0.5 litre (from one litre) of pipi meat applies. Mr Hurst said Fisheries officers checked about 1200 people during Christmas/New Year patrols in the area and “only 32 infringement notices were issued, mostly for not possessing Recreational Fishing Licences. “Traditionally collected as fishing bait, pipis are now also popular as a food. People observing the regulations help to ensure this popular mollusc can continue to be collected along the park’s wide sandy beaches in the future,” he said. His claims are being disputed. “This is a big statement to make and I don’t think it is true,” said Helen Milovanovic, who owns a Venus Bay

Pipi harvesting: Pipi harvesters at Venus Bay work in numbers, taking bucket loads to Melbourne. property near No.1 beach. “The harvesters comply only when the ofﬁcers are there (on the beach). At other times they are there with much bigger containers. We urgently need a moratorium to ban all harvesting on Venus Bay beaches for at least four years to ensure the pipi population survives.” Ms Milovanovic said she and other residents heard park rangers say that pipi stocks at Venus Bay No.1 beach have virtually been depleted and the harvesters, selling pipis to Melbourne restaurants, have moved on to No.4

and No.5 beaches. “One of the rangers on the beach told me that the reduced catch limit was ‘too little too late’ and the pipi population on No.1 beach was pretty much exhausted and if it (harvesting) continues there will be nothing left. “That is why those harvesters have moved to No.4 and No.5 beaches. They’ve moved to different parts, because the supply on No.1 beach has been exhausted.” The ﬁsheries department conceded that all was not well and harvesters were ﬂaunting the rules.

“Fisheries officers did detect a small group of collectors attempting to avoid apprehension, while in possession of excess pipis and without Recreational Fishing Licences,” Mr Hurst said. “Fisheries Victoria is dedicated to managing the state’s fisheries for the whole community to share and those not adhering to regulations will be pursued and issued with fines or brought before the courts. “Fisheries officers have been actively educating visitors to the (Venus Bay) area about the regulations governing the collection of pipis.

“Officers have been distributing flyers and handing out specially produced catch-limit buckets with multi-lingual reference (in Chinese and Vietnamese) to regulations.” Some local fishermen said pipi growth went in “five to sixyear cycles”. Last year it was at its peak, now followed by a declining rate, which gave rise to restricted harvesting. The pipi debate has been thriving on the internet for several years, which seems to be ignored by government departments. “It is absolutely disgraceful. Over the past few years, the (No.1) beach has been destroyed by the constant digging of pipi hunters and the pipi population has (been) depleted significantly,” Sarah Belle wrote a year ago. “The last three summers have seen a massive increase in the numbers of people digging for pipis,” Adam Williams wrote. “I have seen eskies so loaded up with pipis that it takes two guys to load them into the car, at least 30-50 kg of pipis (several thousand) gone just like that.” Local bird conservationists are also worried. ‘We have concerns about depletion of pipis below sustainable levels and will try to find out what’s known about their life cycle from research. The invasion of so many pipi gatherers into Hooded Plover breeding territory is a serious worry and we will explore whether pipi gathering can be banned from those places,” said Janet Carey of Friends of Venus Bay Peninsula. Recreational fishing licences in Victoria can be obtained from 900 outlets, including tackle shops. Anyone observing illegal fishing should call the 24 hour reporting line 13 FISH (13 3474). For further information, call 131 186.

The bigger they are… THE downfall of an Algerian Oak at Mossvale Park will dramatically reduce shade at the popular concert venue this performing season. Visitors to Mossvale Park were stunned as the oak tree spectacularly fell over without any warning noises. Children had been playing under the tree just before it fell over, with one of them heard to remark “God must be looking after us”. There were only about 20 people in the park at the time. Huge crowds are possible for events on January 23, March 13 and April 2.

The oak crashed to the ground just after 2pm on Saturday, narrowly missing the sound shell and a parked car. It was one of four trees in the park listed on the National Trust Register. It was planted in the 1900s and when measured in 2000 had a height of 26m and a circumference of 28m. South Gippsland Shire Council was planning to start clearing up the tree today (Tuesday) and save the timber. The oak’s demise is something of a mystery. There was only a slight breeze on Saturday when it fell over and

Water okay SOUTH Gippsland’s water storages are dipping slightly as the heat begins to take its toll. Leongatha’s Ruby Creek Reservoir has dropped four per cent to 80 and Korumburra’s Coalition Creek is down from 83 per cent full to 81 per cent. Poowong, Nyora and Loch’s Little Bass is down three per cent to 83 and Fish Creek’s Battery Creek has dropped by the same amount, from 86 to 83. Wonthaggi’s Lance Creek is 90 per cent full, having been at 91 per cent this time last week. No rainfall was recorded at the storages in the past week, but South Gippsland Water managing director Steve Evans, said he was satisﬁed the holdings were at good levels for this time of year. The Tarwin, Agnes and Tarra rivers are ﬂowing well.

there was no rot in the tree. One suggestion was that the recent dry years had taken their toll. Another was that when trees

get old they fall over. Whatever the cause, the wonderful shade this grand old tree provided won’t be quickly replaced.

Down: acting co-ordinator of parks and gardens at South Gippsland Shire Council, Gary Beard with the fallen tree. Graham Street, Wonthaggi Phone 5672 3593 Email: reelcinema@dcsi.net.au

Sessions from Thursday, January 14 to Wednesday, January 20

ALVIN and the Chipmunks The Squeakquel (PG) Adults at child prices Daily 10.30am, 4.30pm

ITS COMPLICATED (M) Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12.30pm, 6.15pm; Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 2.15pm, 8pm BRAN NUE DAY (PG) Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 2.45pm, 8.30pm; Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 12.30pm, 6.15pm Sherlock Holmes - Jan 21 Princess and the Frog - Jan 21 MP1452

PAGE 6 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Park vacation SAMMY and Jacqui Cartwright (pictured) from Mentone were among the happy holidaymakers at the Venus Bay Caravan Park last week. It was their ﬁrst time holidaying at the park and in Venus Bay. “We wanted somewhere that was a bit quieter than the Mornington Peninsula

and surrounds,” Jacqui said. Friends recommended Venus Bay and the caravan park to the Cartwrights. At the park they are enjoying all the facilities including the pool, tennis and chess. “It’s just a great holiday,” Jacqui said. The family was spending eight days in Venus Bay.

Toughing things out TOURISM businesses across Gippsland have the opportunity to learn how to succeed in tough economic times as part of a comprehensive training and development program offered by Destination Gippsland and Tourism Victoria. After a number of severe impacts on the tourism industry in recent years such as bushfires, floods and a global recession, it is crucial businesses have strategies to cope when the visitors stop coming and their cash flow is threatened. This topic will be featured in the first of eight workshops held by Destination Gippsland based on Tourism Victoria’s Tourism Excellence Modules. The course will also include valuable information on creating business and marketing plans, working with the media, customer service, and pricing and packaging. “The experience and expertise of local trainers and facilitators will help deliver the most comprehensive and affordable business development opportunity available to any industry segment in Gippsland,” said Destination Gippsland Chief Executive Officer, Terry Robinson. “We are very confident that this program will add value to tourism businesses. If a business operator completes the full program and doesn’t think it has added any value to their business, then there is a money back guarantee,” he said. At the conclusion of the Gippsland Tourism Excellence Program businesses will have gained: • Invaluable knowledge and skills for all aspects of their business operations

• A year of business mentoring • Networking opportunities with tourism industry colleagues • A comprehensive information folder documenting all of their learning. This can then be used as credits in the Recognition of Prior Learning process for a number of TAFE qualifications such as Certificate III, IV or Diploma level Tourism courses • Great preparation for entering the Victorian Tourism Awards • Completion of most elements to obtain official and national recognition in the Australian Tourism Accreditation Program • A $50 voucher to go towards the cost of this accreditation, refunded to your business once you have become accredited. The good news for Gippsland operators is that the Gippsland Tourism Excellence Program is being heavily subsidised by Tourism Victoria and Destination Gippsland. For $350 for the full course, this is approximately a quarter of the cost compared with other business training programs. Not only is it extremely good value, it is offered in a town nearby. The course is offered at six Gippsland locations including Cowes, Warragul, Leongatha, Morwell, Lakes Entrance and Omeo. The course is recommended for all owners or managers of tourism-related businesses from accommodation to retail, food and beverage, attractions, visitor information and tours. For more information about locations, dates and workshop topics please go to www.destinationgippsland.com. au or phone 5655 2044.

Tree hopes high BLUEGUM investors in South Gippsland have been thrown a lifeline, after a buyer was found for the Great Southern Plantation schemes. About 80 per cent of schemes in South Gippsland will be controlled by Gunns, after growers voted in favour of the company’s proposal to replace Great Southern Managers Australia Limited as the responsible entity (RE) in eight out of nine of the 1998-2006 pulpwood schemes. About 1000ha of trees planted in South Gippsland in 2007 and 2008 were

not taken up by Gunns. McGrathNicol, receivers of Great Southern, made the announcement recently. In addition to the special and ordinary resolutions needed to approve the proposal, more than 50 per cent of all eligible votes were required to be in favour of the extraordinary resolution to replace Great Southern Managers Australia. Gunns has agreed to waive the conditionality precedent for the 1998-2005 schemes, in regard to their offer being reliant on all schemes approving its appointment as the responsible entity.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 7

Digital TV $600 slug By Matt Dunn SOUTH Gippsland residents in TV black spot areas may be forced to pay $600 for satellite dishes when the switch is made from analogue to digital next year. Those who do not pay the fee will lose their TV signals. The South Gippsland Shire Council region will make the switch some time between January 1 and June 30, 2011. The Bass Coast Shire Council region will make the switch, along with Melbourne, in 2013. The Federal Government has trumpeted that â&#x20AC;&#x153;all regional Australians will now receive the same television services as people in the cities,â&#x20AC;? but Regional Broadcasters Association chairman Doug Edwards said a $600 fee would be imposed on residents in black spot areas where so-called â&#x20AC;&#x153;self-helpâ&#x20AC;? transmission facilities had not been established. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Part of the deal with the Government, for them to fund this satellite transmission, is that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve agreed to do a terrestrial in-ďŹ ll. That means weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to get to about 98 per cent of the population with

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the terrestrial solution,â&#x20AC;? Mr Edwards said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The ones that we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get to will have the option of getting the satellite dish and getting the satellite feed. It means that everyone in Australia now will have access. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For those in areas where there are no self-help facilities itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to cost them the whole $600.â&#x20AC;? The Federal Government will pay $300 toward the cost of having a satellite dish installed for residents in areas where self-help transmission facilities have been established. A spokesperson for the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy said that neither South Gippsland Shire Council nor Bass Coast Shire Council has applied for a licence to establish the self-help facilities. A spokesperson for Bass Coast Shire Council said council was waiting to ďŹ nd out whether self help facilities were needed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;None of the current self help sites are in Bass Coast. If a black spot was identiďŹ ed in our area, the Government would contact Council, but that has not happened yet,â&#x20AC;? she said. Like many in the industry, television and satellite installer Geoff Wyhoon, is taking a wait-

Geoff Wyhoon: the television and satellite installer is waiting to see what will happen next in South Gippslandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s digital TV revolution. and-see approach to the switch. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a bit hard to know whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to happen. The existing transmitter site is not going to be adequate in some of these areas when they get switched off,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In certain areas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; where the community is big enough and they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have reception â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the local council puts together funding to retransmit the signal. A bit like what they do at Foster. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a few areas that have that type of thing. But

there are a few areas that certainly havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t got that sort of set up and people are getting reception via analogue, but when it goes digital theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to have all sorts of grief.â&#x20AC;? Mr Wyhoon said there was â&#x20AC;&#x153;stuff available via satellite now, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a direct replacement for local channelsâ&#x20AC;?. The satellite service referred to by Mr Wyhoon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Imparja - sources channels from the Northern Territory and is bound in red tape.

PAGE 8 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

POLICE BRIEFS

Smouldering bonfires reignite THE CFA is urging people to check old bonﬁre burns after a further scare on Sunday. The most recent was at a property

at Hallston, surrounded by thick bushland. “It was on Denhams Road. There was a gate we could barely get the ﬁre truck through. The last time the bonﬁre

was burnt was before fire restrictions started,” Leongatha CFA captain Andy Kaye told The Star. Mr Kaye said people needed to keep a close watch on what they may believe to be dormant bonfire debris. “We’ve been to two so far this year. There was one at Koonwarra. People should keep an eye on them and break them up, but preferably on a day where the conditions are conducive to a fire starting,” he said. “If they didn’t have something to douse them with they could ignite really readily.”

Divi van theft A POLICE divisional van was stolen from outside a Wonthaggi property early on Sunday morning, while police were responding to an aggravated burglary at the address. The van was found several hours later with $3000 worth of damage done to it.

Boat crash A BOAT collided with a kayaker at All ﬁred up: the Leongatha brigade made sure the bonﬁre was not going Walkerville South on the afternoon of to reignite. January 6, leaving a man from Bendigo

with serious head injuries. “There were no injuries to the people in the boat, but there were injuries to the kayaker. He suffered head injuries. He was taken to Foster Hospital and then transferred to the Alfred,” Inverloch Police’s Sergeant Deryn Ricardo said. Water police are continuing an investigation into the incident.

Boat theft AN aluminium boat was stolen from the backyard of a residence in Young Street, Leongatha on Thursday, January 7. The boat was carried away by the thieves, Leongatha Police’s Leading Senior Constable Jeff Stephens said.

Flag slashing A NEW business in Meeniyan has been attacked by vandals, who slashed advertising ﬂags at the front of the shop front of Moo’s Cafe overnight on December 27. “They were shredded by passersby,” Leongatha Police’s Leading Senior Constable Jeff Stephens said.

Pool slashing

AN above ground pool at the rear of a property in Cooper Street, Mirboo North, was slashed by an offender with a sharp object. The attack occurred overnight on Sunday, January 3. “It’s a very summery-type offence,” Leading Senior Constable Jeff Stephens said.

Drunk ﬁnes

LEONGATHA Police’s Leading Senior Constable Jeff Stephens said police had been busy handing out infringement notices to drunken people. “Under new legislation in regards to people being drunk in public places, police have the power to arrest and put people in custody,” L/S/C Stephens said. L/S/C Stephens said a number of local drinkers had received ﬁnes of $234 for being drunk and disorderly outside private premises. “There’s been three in the last week,” he said.

From pages past Historical snippets from The Star One year ago, January 13, 2009 Plans are underway to build an underwater observatory at the end of the Long Jetty at Port Welshpool. The Welshpool community is hoping the proposal would save the jetty, closed since 2003 due to fire. **** Four new staff have been appointed to South Gippsland Shire Council. They are new directorate of corporate and community services, Dirk Holwerda; sustainability director, Andrew McEwen; director of infrastructure, Anthony Seabrook; and Raelene Bennett, manager information services. Five years ago, January 13, 2005 Alanna McKinnon has achieved the highest honour in Guiding by earning a coveted Queen’s Guide Award. The Poowong resident volunteered at a child care centre for three months, ran a campfire for 20 people and researched Guiding traditions to obtain the accolade. **** Koonwarra is on track to becoming the first waste wise village in Australia. Businesspeople will learn to assess their waste and develop plans to reduce their rubbish. 10 years ago, January 11, 2000 Venus Bay residents are concerned about protecting the aquifer and improving the sewerage situation in their town. But 110 people at a public meeting were still unclear whether the town would receive reticulated sewerage. **** Inverloch horse rider Cindy Morrison has just returned from the Asia-Pacific Young Rider Championships in India. The 20-year-old took part in a range of competitions. Her mother Yvonne managed the Australian team. 30 years ago, January 15, 1980 Stock agency Gippsland and Northern is planning to build a $1 million livestock selling complex at Koonwarra. The company’s Leongatha branch manager, Peter Dwyer, said the yards would continue G&N’s reputation for servicing small farmers. **** A Stony Creek grandmother can rightly boast to five living generations of girls in her family. Joy Zeuschner’s mother and grandmother live on, and she has a new grand-daughter of her own.

Wild Dog closed WILD Dog Valley Road will be closed between the Mt Eccles Road and Amietts Road from 7.30 am tomorrow 12/01/2010 to 5.00pm on Friday 15/01/2010.

Crews will be replacing an existing 1800mm culvert that is starting to collapse. All essential services have been notiﬁed.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 9

Shire’s growth potential By Jane Ross

SOUTH Gippsland Shire has a gross domestic product of around $2.3 billion a year. And there’s opportunity aplenty for that to grow and grow. Gross domestic product or GDP is the market value of goods and services produced. Nestled between Wonthaggi with its major desalination plant construction site and the Latrobe Valley with its alternative brown coal industries potential, the shire is sitting pretty. They key is to play the cards right. Andrew McEwen is the council’s

director of sustainability. He told The Star that in the next 12 months, he and his staff will look closely at the opportunities and the gaps that can be ﬁlled. There are two prongs to this: where are the leakages or money lost to the area and where can new businesses slot in? Mr McEwen was commenting on the importance of supporting local producers; a topic backed by a feature in this week’s Star (see pages 38 and 39). “The critical question is,” he said, “if someone spends a dollar locally, it can multiply two or three times that value over a year.”

Likewise, if a dollar is spent purchasing goods and services out of the area, that multiplies too and the loss becomes signiﬁcant. “It’s a whole issue of looking at maximising opportunity for local products and services.” And, he explained, there are plenty of these. The State Government is considering alternate uses for the Latrobe Valley’s brown coal such as biofertilisers, coal-to-oil and “clean” coal. The plant and equipment for these ﬂedgling industries is likely to be prefabricated and from Asia. “Port Anthony (at Barry Beach) could be the only place where it will

be shipped in.” The $3.5 billion cost of the Wonthaggi desalination plant is, continued Mr McEwen “a signiﬁcant amount of money over time”. There will be light engineering opportunities to support that project. The increasing cost of fuel could mean bulky goods industries setting up locally to reduce overheads. “We need to provide opportunities for small scale production.” Rampant growth in the neighbouring City of Casey, Pakenham and Cranbourne will spill over into South Gippsland. “Also in Melbourne there is the debate on continuous sprawl. An al-

ternate strategy is to take advantage of opportunities for growth to occur in the regions. “That could be telling.” The more so because it would be cheaper than providing the infrastructure that a continuously expanding Melbourne would require. Mr McEwen said there is “a reasonable” amount of land left in Korumburra for industrial development, more needs to be found in Leongatha, but there is availability in Foster and Toora. “More industry would be a boost to those smaller towns.”

Signs urge road safety SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council is doing its bit to punch home the road safety message over the summer holidays, even if it upsets one or two residents. Motorists will have noticed such warnings as “Driving on Drugs, You’re out of your Mind” and “Drink Drive: Bloody Idiot”, which have been attached below town entrance signs in the shire. “We took the advice of VicRoads on the sign design and the messages to use,” council’s community strengthening co-ordinator and chairman of the Roadsafe committee, Ned Dennis said. “We have received two complaints about the use of the phrase ‘bloody idiot’, but we were willing to proceed with it, given its proven effectiveness in jolting people out of complacency and into due care. It is an established national road safety slogan, and if it saves a life, then it is worth risking offence to one or two (people).”

The safety messages will be in place when there is no competing demand for event sign space. Mr Dennis said Town Association members usually use the entrance space to promote a market or event. But they have agreed to replace them with the safety signs after the event. Council has also provided priority Total Fire Ban Today signs to the CFA to insert on Total Fire Ban days. Mr Dennis praised the community response and said he’d received “lots of positive feedback” on the initiative from people concerned at the increased number of road accidents, “when we have visitors who may not be used to country roads, and a higher incidence of drink driving during the holiday festivities”. Residents and visitors are asked to exercise extra care and patience during this increased trafﬁc period. Road maintenance requests can be reported for attention by phoning 5662 9200.

The end for Arnold By Matt Dunn ARNOLD Karl Sodeman ﬁnished his life at the end of a rope in 1936, hanged at Pentridge Prison. The game was up for Sodeman when one of his workmates, a man known to those who remember as “Mr Money,” jokingly asked him where he was when June Rushmer was murdered. Sodeman exploded, denying any wrongdoing. The now suspicious Mr Money called the police, who swooped and arrested Sodeman. He was tried in February 1936 for the murder of June Rushmer. Throughout Sodeman’s trial, his lawyer argued that his client was insane and should not die for his actions. Doctors and psychiatrists said he was affected by a “disorder of the mind aggravated by the toxic effects of alcohol”. The condition was known as leptomeningitis, and as Sodeman was intoxicated on all four occasions, the doctors concluded that he was insane at the times of the murders. But the court believed otherwise. Sodeman was found guilty of murder. For many in Leongatha, Sodeman’s arrest and conviction for murder was no great surprise. Sodeman’s liking of sandshoes raised alarm bells for many. Former Leongatha resident Wendy Wright remembers the recollections of her mother, Margerie and grandmother, Mabel, who lived in a house in Roughead Street, close to where the body of June Rushmer was found the day after she was killed. Wendy said “Grandma Clark” didn’t like Sodeman, at least partly for the fact he wore sandshoes. Perhaps the astute woman recognised the fact they would make it easier for Sodeman to creep up on someone or ﬂee a crime scene.

“Grandma Clark had a café in Leongatha and the talk was then that Sodeman used to come into their café and he always had sandshoes on,” she said. “They used to think it was very strange this man used to wear sandshoes.” When she was a child Margerie slept with her sister Jean in the same bedroom. Wendy will never know whether it was Sodeman, but there was a night “when this big hairy hand came through the window.

“This was around the time the murders happened and they always told the story and wondered whether it was Sodeman,” she said. “Aunty Jean saw it and she jumped out of bed. As she jumped out of bed the fella took his hand away and ﬂed.” The house where the Clarks lived is just a few doors down from where Maureen Lewis - who could easily have been murdered at Inverloch on New Year’s Day 1935 instead of Ethel Belshaw - lives today.

Drug road sign: Driving and drugs don’t mix.

Cheating death Continued from page 1. “It makes you wonder what she knew and what she didn’t. He wanted to take me to get an ice cream but she wouldn’t let him,” Maureen said. She remembers returning home, upset that she had missed out on an ice cream. It may well have been her last, if not for the intervention of Bernice. Like many serial killers, Arnold helped with the ‘search’ for his victim, keeping up the pretence of being a concerned citizen. The 81-year-old Maureen has lived a long and happy life, marrying the late Jack Lewis, and enjoying all the normal pleasures of country living. But she knows well enough her life could just have easily ended way back in 1935 if the brutal serial killer had had his way. Aside from the ice cream incident, she remembers many times when Sodeman would dink her on his bicycle. She was never totally happy to accept a ride, though, in her child’s way, she reasoned that it was easier than walking. On December 1, 1935, he killed six-year-old June Rushmer in his home town of Leongatha. A man, later identiﬁed as Sodeman, was spotted riding away from the murder scene on his bicycle. Before he was hanged the following year at Pentridge Prison, he would confess to murdering two other girls, 12-year-old Mena Grifﬁths on November 8, 1930 and 16-year-old Hazel Wilson on January 9, 1931.

The crimes, both in the Melbourne suburb of Ormond, earned him the moniker of the ‘Schoolgirl Strangler’. But Maureen, like many others in Leongatha, always suspected there was something not quite right about the man. “We were always frightened of him. In those days you didn’t call anyone ‘Old Sodeman,’ because your dad would pull you up and insist you call him Mr Sodeman. But to us kids he was always Old Sodeman,” she said. “He wore sandshoes and he was sort of creepy.” Maureen was reputed to be on Sodeman’s kill list, but she does not believe it was true. She thinks, however, that a friend who made an equally lucky escape, may have been. “They said he did have a list and at one stage they said I was on it. I wasn’t. I know Shirley Leitch was,” she said. Shirley Leitch, who was Shirley Steele back then, has since passed on. Just as Maureen could easily have been the victim on the day Ethel Belshaw was killed at Inverloch, so it was with Shirley, when her best friend June Rushmer was strangled in Leongatha. Shirley’s daughter, Toni Joyce, conﬁrmed that her mother was reputed to be on the kill list. She believes Sodeman took June Rushmer, because he couldn’t get Shirley. Fear of her mother kept Shirley from Sodeman’s clutches. “Her mother, my grandmother, was an absolute

tyrant and back in those days my grandfather was the caretaker of the rec (Leongatha Recreation Reserve) – they had a house there. Mum and June were hanging over the gates of the rec and mum knew she was never allowed to go out those gates, because she’d be ﬂogged,” Toni said. “Sodeman came up and offered them lollies. Mum said, ‘I’ll take your lollies, but I’m not going with you.’ June’s family was very poor and she did go off with him on his bike. “Mum was stubborn and she knew if she said anything to the detectives, she knew that Nanna - in her mind - would have hit her. So she didn’t tell them what happened.” The murder would haunt Shirley all her 73 years. “It affected mum for the rest of her life. It was really sad actually,” Toni said. “I think she felt guilty that she didn’t tell the police. She carried it with her to her grave.” The Inverloch Historical Society will have a photographic exhibition on display at the Inverloch RSL Hall at Bolding Place on January 23, from 2pm to 4pm. The ‘Inverloch of Yesteryear’ exhibition will feature a display related to the 1935 murder, as well as other signiﬁcant moments from the town’s rich history. Entry is by gold coin donation.

PAGE 10 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

THE South Gippsland Shire Bass Band farewelled Martyn Scrimshaw (front left) with a closing number of Auld Lang Syne and a certiﬁcate of appreciation. Martyn joined the band in 2005 as a player, where he displayed his musical skill on many different instruments, before his election to musical director in 2006. He soon drew new players to the band with his skill as a conductor and raised the playing standard of the band. He is moving Bendigo as part of his Salvation Army duties.

HOLIDAYMAKERS and local youngsters have been enjoying the Scripture Union Beach Mission held in Rainbow Park, Inverloch over the past couple of weeks. The program ran in the morning and evening with skits, games, activities and fun teaching. Last Wednesday night there was a pirate theme with Kasey and Corey from Leongatha ﬁttingly dressed for the evening. Scripture Union is a Christian organisation aiming to serve the needs of children, families and young people.

THE next Boolarra Folk Festival will be held on Saturday, February 27, a week earlier than last year. The festival is free and features traditional folk, bluegrass, blues, roots, Celtic and world music as well as extensive food and a craft market in the foothills of the Strzelecki Ranges. The festival website, www.boolarrafolkfestival.com has more details about this popular musical event in Gippsland. LOCAL women Patricia Freeman and Jane Hobson

Chambers who have written a musical about the Lady of the Swamp, will present a musical narration of the story at Coal Creek’s Pig and Whistle Hotel on Saturday from 7.30pm. “We’ll tell the story with the help of old photos and songs,” said Patricia. The narration runs for an hour and a half and the night costs $25 a head. Jane and Patricia wrote the songs themselves. AUDITIONS for the musical High Society by Leongatha Lyric Theatre started last Sunday, but will continue this week. Last Sunday the girl group and chorus held auditions. A start was also made on individuals. Tonight, Tuesday 12, 7-10pm, individual auditions will continue, as well as on Thursday, January 14, 7-10pm. There’s room for many more performers. For auditions, contact the

director Peter McAlpine on 0407 538 245 to book your audition time. FOR anyone wishing to learn ballroom dancing, classes will commence from this Wednesday night at the Dumbalk hall. Beginners most welcome. This is a fun social night and for more information phone Marg Cantwell on 5664 1236. KORUMBURRA and District Australia Day committee has decided to celebrate the small communities on the western side of Leongatha in Jumbunna, this year. These communities include: Arawata, Bena, Jeetho, Jumbunna, Korumburra, Kardella, Kongwak, Loch, Moyarra, Nyora, Poowong and Poowong East. The festivities will commence at 8.30 am with a free breakfast at

Inverloch artist John Mutsaers was artist in residence at Meeniyan Art Gallery last Saturday. Formerly of Moe, John and his wife Mary are setting up studio and residence at the beach town and will volunteer their time every second Saturday at the gallery. Visitors will be able to regularly watch John paint and talk about his work. For inquiries, call him on 0402 392 799 or the gallery on 5664 0101.

the Jumbunna Hall and the ofﬁcial ceremony will begin at 10 am. There will be local musicians, Britt Lewis and Willy Golightly, arranged by Peter and Nicole Baird. In addition to the entertainment there will be the annual awards for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Event of the Year. Local MP Russell Broadbent has accepted our invitation to attend and the scouts and guides will assist with the ﬂagraising and singing of the National Anthem. The ceremony will conclude with the planting of a tree, a bunya bunya pine, in Jumbunna Park. IF not a blast from the past, then a musical treat that is not to be missed. Come and join former South Gippsland duo Andrew Dale and Danny Pellin as The Beagle Boys re-form for a special 20th year anniversary reunion gig at the Inlet Hotel, Inverloch, this Sunday, January 17, between 2 and 6pm. Come along for a drink and a bit of fun as the Beagle Boys run through stacks of great songs. Entry is free and dress is casual. The atmosphere will be very relaxed.

DECEMBER 8, 2009 saw Pauline Fischmann of Inverloch celebrate her 80th birthday. Married to Roy, and the proud mother of four children, eight grandchildren plus two great grandchildren, Pauline celebrated her 80th birthday with two separate events. The ﬁrst was a family lunch held at her daughter, Heather Mills’ residence in Wonthaggi, with most of Pauline’s family present to help celebrate the important milestone. The second was a disnner attended by 23 members of the Inverloch Probus Walking

Group at the Inverloch Palace Chinese Restaurant where Pauline had to wear the walking group’s special birthday hat.

THE judge’s $1000 prize of the 5th Great Southern Portrait Prize will be announced on Sunday, noon. The Portrait Prize is held in conjunction with the Tastes of the Prom Food and Wine Festival in the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre this coming Saturday and Sunday. Doors open from 10 to 4 daily. Previous prize winners have been Chris Beehag, Abigail Van Rooyen, Yianni Banikos and Kim McDonald. The judging panel for this year are Mark Reyment, sculptor, Christopher Marshall, art historian and Kelly Ann Guertz, photographer. In the Junior Section (under 16 years) the winner receives a $50 ﬁrst prize, while all junior entrants will receive a certiﬁcate of participation. Pictured is a portrait of Ann Parry, which was a recent people’s choice. of dances and opportunity will be given for those attending to join in some of the dances. The Sunset Dancers performed with Priscilla Leveque and Kaira at the World Youth

Day Festival in Sydney in 2008. Grantville Lodge is at 200 Grantville – Glen Alvie Rd, Grantville. Bring a rug to sit on and a gold coin donation.

PERRETT & Associates in Leongatha were celebrating last week the admittance of client manager Tristan Creed to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia. It means he is now a certiﬁed chartered accountant. Tristan has been with the ﬁrm for seven years. He started while he was still studying at university. Firm principal Don Perrett is pictured congratulating Tristan. Perrett & Associates also welcomed Margaret Winkler (also pictured with Don Perrett) to the team. She has recently received her TAFE account-

ing qualiﬁcations and will be a bookkeeper and client support person. Don himself will celebrate 45 years with the ﬁrm on January 25.

NEXT Sunday there will be an opportunity to enjoy an evening of Indigenous Dancing led by Djarrin Wilson and the Sunset Dancers. Djarrin and his group will perform a range

Get the message: this State Government billboard beside the Bass Highway at Dalyston has been “corrected” twice. Once to put an “s” onto the verb practise, frequently spelt with a “c” as is the American custom. Secondly, to send a strong message to Victoria’s Premier John Brumby that, ahead of this year’s State election, he will indeed need a “ﬁre plan” if he wants the rural vote.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 11

Desal boom begins By Jane Ross WONTHAGGI is booming and the economic ﬁllip has only just begun. Businesses report that the town is busier than it has ever been. “You can’t move in Wonthaggi at present,” said Gordon Muller, president of the Wonthaggi Business Association. “If business owners aren’t smiling, they should be!” He said he didn’t know whether the hectic activity resulted from holiday makers or desalination plant workers or both. Construction of the desalination plant has only just started but with a projected peak workforce of 1700 and

salaries in the order of $150,000 a year, hundreds of millions of dollars will be pumped into the local economy. And that’s from Thiess Degremont employees alone. Local contractors employed by the project will account for much, much more. Thiess Degremont is the construction arm of the desalination plant consortium. Its workers will be encouraged to live locally and some will be eligible for a $700 a week living-away-fromhome on top of their wage. Up to 500 houses new to the rental market are awaiting tenants through a desalination housing accord. Rents are still being determined but if they averaged $500 a week, that’s an extra $250,000 a week or $13 million a year

being pumped into the economy. Local business is beneﬁting already. Bass Coast Shire CEO Allan Bawden, said, “People doing the earthworks are already coming and going. There are lots of local cartage contractors carting rocks. “I was on the site the other day and the logistics regarding lunches was interesting. The orders are phoned to places in Wonthaggi then collected. They’re buying locally.” This may not last. Project director for Thiess Degremont Greg Miller, said a contract was being ﬁnalised for an on-site canteen to be run by professional caterers with experience working on large construction sites. He could not say what percent-

age of its overall workforce would be drawn from the local pool, but the unions involved “share our strong desire to see as many locals with the right skills and right experience working on the job”. Shadow Securities of Dalyston, has been providing security at the plant site since May 2008. Mike Cannata who runs the business said he had put on eight extra full time staff. The number had been 14 but Shadow no longer has the contract for the night shift. Mr Bawden said cafes in Wonthaggi were opening at 6am to cater for the breakfast trade. Gordon Muller himself said a number of desalination employees had spent money on household items at his Wonthaggi Auctions. He’s expecting more.

Mr Bawden said it is difficult to determine how much money the desalination construction will bring in to the local economy, but as the year progresses “we can start to do some estimates of economic benefit. “There will be a whole lot of flow on effects that will generate more jobs in the service sector.” House cleaning and gardening are but two examples. “That’s jobs as well and we can use those skills later in the tourism industry,” he said. He is hoping that some of the skilled desalination staff will fall captive to the spell of Bass Coast and stay, giving a much-needed boost to the knowledge economy.

Centreline trial over YOU’VE probably driven past it many times. But what is the “audible centreline trial” that goes for 3km on the Strzelecki Highway a few kilometres out of Leongatha? Why are they doing it? Is the centreline effective? Will the trial ﬁnish soon? The appropriate organisation to pose such questions to is VicRoads. However the same organisation is infamous for only answering some questions. VicRoads’ Regional Director for Eastern Victoria Patricia Liew said the Strzelecki Highway centreline trial is now complete. But she wouldn’t comment on when the trial began and ended. Signs signalling the trial still stand on the Strzelecki Highway.

Ms Liew said tactile centre lines alert drivers that they have crossed the centre line of the road. “Centre lines act in the same way as tactile edge lines, which alert drivers that they may be running off the road, particularly in fatigue situations,” she said.

“Tactile centre lines are being rolled out across the state as part of the Safer Road Infrastructure Program (SRIP), which aims to reduce the number and severity of crashes along roads which have a history of serious casualty crashes.” Edge lines and tactile

centre lines on Victorian arterial roads have received $12.6 million since 2007. Along with the 3km trial on the Strzelecki Highway, tactile centre lines have also been installed on the South Gippsland Highway after Lang Lang and the Princes Highway from Traralgon to Sale.

Trial sign: the announcement of the 3km stretch of centreline on the Strzelecki Highway at Berrys Creek.

Rock lobster INVERLOCH Rotary president Ross Wise with the rafﬂe winner Anne Larking and family from Leongatha, who will enjoy their prize – a 2kg crayﬁsh. The Music In The Glade event was a major success on Friday night.

Braving the heatwave By Bert van Bedaf ICY poles and jelly dessert fronted the heat battle at Woorayl Lodge in Leongatha yesterday. The care home, which houses 38 residents aged between 70 and 90, was bracing itself against yesterday’s heatwave with practical measures to keep its elderly residents cool. Elderly people don’t tend to drink much water and to counter their reluctance they were encouraged to enjoy an icy pole to keep hydrated. “Elderly people don’t like to drink a lot of water, because they have to go to the toilet too often. During the hot spell we give them icy poles and jelly for dessert to make sure they get extra ﬂuid,” Sherril Roughead, one of the acting supervisors at the lodge, said. Staff members also made sure windows and curtains were closed, blinds were down and ceiling fans were operating. Some residents have air-conditioning in their room, but all lounges had their units operating to keep the home cool. Those most at risk from heat-related illness are people over 65 years, particularly living alone without air conditioning, but also pregnant women, overweight people, people

suffering from illness or taking medication. But by 3pm yesterday, no people with heat distress had visited the Leongatha Medical Group in Koonwarra Rd. “We haven’t had any incidents so far,” the group office manager Marg Wright said. For emergencies, people could dial the nurse-on-call number 1300 606 024. Leongatha Memorial Hospital also reported no heat-affected patients. The Leongatha ambulance service was on alert for any emergency but has received no calls so far. “We have had several heat-related incidents in the last few weeks but not at the moment,” Leongatha paramedic Stan Hewerdine said. Incidents were mainly related to dehydration. Mr Hewerdine stressed people should not drink alcohol, tea or coffee, which cause dehydration, but drink plenty of water or half water and half soft drinks. South Gippsland shire council was confident it could cope with service demands, having put its Heatwave Plan in place on November 4 last year (the plan is on council’s website). “Home carers are checking on the elderly. An alert has been sent to staff. Heatwave educational messages have been distributed along with fire mes-

sages over the past months,” council’s communications officer Jeannie Hicks said. She said it was critical that people kept cool and drank plenty of fluids. Unfortunately, in some cases, pensioners were “reluctant to turn their air conditioners on because of the cost of running them”. By yesterday afternoon no pets had been presented at the Tarwin Veterinary in Anderson St, Leongatha, but veterinarian Helen Wilson had experienced an influx of animals on previous hot spells. “Animals usually show signs of panting and being lethargic,” Ms Wilson said. “They don’t tend to eat or drink.” Often the cause of distress in dogs is that they’re being left in cars. “The temperature is too hot, which can cause brain swelling and lead to brain damage,” Ms Wilson said. Cats outside will find a breeze or shade. When kept indoors, air-conditioning will keep them cool. Putting a small tray with water and ice cubes in front of a fan will also give them a comfortable breeze Cattle and horse standing out in paddocks are usually better off and able to fend for themselves. “They often find their own shade,” Ms Wilson said.

PAGE 12 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Not so wicked Silver lining DESALINATION has been a dirty word for many local people since the plant was announced by Steve Bracks in his red helicopter. But the reality is, it will now go ahead, despite the best efforts of many well-intentioned and hard working protestors. The giant water factory will not only pump out billions of litres of water, it will pump millions of dollars into the local economy. Every cloud has a silver lining and, in this case, it is a major economic boom which is starting to reverberate around the region. Making the most of the money being poured in from the plant is important. It will only last a few years - once the plant is up and running it is hard to imagine that it will be a cash-cow in the same sense as it will during the construction phase. With that in mind, we must encourage every worker at the site to make the most of their time in the region. If the money is all taken back to Melbourne, then there will be little beneﬁt to local business people and their employees. Offering friendly service and competitive prices will help to encourage workers to spread a little of their wealth in our backyard. These are tough economic times which require us to take every opportunity that presents itself - even the construction of a desalination plant that many in the community wish would never be built.

Think local The Star has begun a new feature centred on local produce and services. It is based on two simple ideas. The ﬁrst is that what we have in South Gippsland is as good as anywhere else. The second is that spending a dollar locally is of massive economic beneﬁt to the entire community. Let’s all get behind the idea of shopping locally and supporting the small businesses that are the backbone of the regional economy.

Letters guidelines ALL letters should be kept to 400 words or less. The Star reserves the right to edit all letters for length and style. Writer’s details, including full name, address and phone number (not for publication), must be included.

The Great Southern Star Address: 36 McCartin St Leongatha, 3953 Ph: (03) 5662 2294 Fax: (03) 5662 4350 Editor: Danny Buttler Email: news@thestar.com.au

Advertising Manager: Joy Morgan Email: advertising@thestar.com.au ACN 006507580 ABN 61 318 952 541 Print Post 336735 10006

INDEED the lack of caravan spaces in the South Gippsland region is an issue for concern. But what also concerns me as a local is the blatant attack on so-called ‘illegal campers’ (we are not talking about illegal immigrants). People travel from all over Australia and the world to see our beautiful region. As South Gippslanders, should we not be proud and actively encourage more people to travel to South Gippsland? As a local South Gippsland resident, I would never ever tell folks to move on. I think this is an insult and a contradiction. Are we not supposed to be encouraging tourism? Is it the fault of these pilgrims that South Gippsland does not have adequate camping facilities? I recall a couple having similar issues in Bethlehem 2000 years ago, but a local farmer helped Joseph and Mary with some accommodation in his barn. I am sure he did not charge said couple and child for a shower. Do we have too many laws preventing people from camping on the side of the road or foreshores in a safe manner? Or does this affect greedy people making money? The law states that we have a duty of care to provide a 15 minute power nap. What in heaven’s name is stopping caravan park owners from showing a little kindness and charging these so-called illegal campers a buck to have a shower? Come on, we are the lucky country are we not? Glen Cloke, Mt Best.

Cost of living The National Association of Specialist Obstetricians and Gynaecologists [NASOG] recently issued a warning stating expectant mothers are facing an “expensive surprise”. NASOG warned that “women and their families are not fully aware” of the cutbacks in the new budget. The antenatal fees women are currently being charged are no longer fully refundable through the Medicare Safety Net. I agree with Midwifery Professor, Sally Tracey of Sydney University who published a comprehensive response to this press release. http://blogs.crikey.com. au/croakey/2010/01/08/changesto-obstetric-safety-net-are-fairdespite-foul-cries/ I have adapted some of the thrust of her response below: The aim of the previous government’s Medicare Safety Net [MSN] was to protect Australians from high out-of-pocket costs for medical services provided outside hospital. In March 2004 the MSN was changed to allow for

an unlimited, non means tested increase in the supplement payable for Medicare benefits. The outcome did not necessarily benefit those with a low to middle income or the community’s sickest. The people who really benefited were the providers themselves. It was found that some doctors were taking advantage of the safety net to increase their fees. In the last five years fees increased by 267 per cent for out of hospital expenses which included the ‘antenatal care package’. The majority of the cost is refunded to patients by the government. The cap MSN, announced in the new budget would naturally cause those private obstetricians, who had previously benefited from such a lucrative bonus, to cry foul. Keep in mind that during the previous government era, the Safety Net rort, wrought havoc with public health system funding. The claim that Australian families who are attended by a specialist obstetrician during pregnancy will be nearly $1000 worse off is simply not true.

VOXPOP! VOX With Australia Day nearing, The Star asked: Should Australia become a republic?

Those who will be ‘worse off’ from the beginning of 2010 are those who for the past ﬁve years have been reaping a rich harvest from the health system. Women will soon work it out that these thousand dollar private obstetric ‘antenatal packages’ will disappear once the government’s golden goose is dead. Beverley Walker Venus Bay

Spencer support I own a small antiquarian bookshop in the hamlet of Meeniyan, Gippsland, Victoria. We are very concerned that a man, Peter Spencer, who is representing the views of millions in the rural sector is allowed to be starved to death, nay sacrificed in relative silence, by the Rudd Government (or rather traitors and usurpers), yet outwardly given open support by only a few, even amongst his fellow farmers. Is it fair that one man be sacrificed in such a way so that others may benefit from his death, rather than have one and all benefit from his life? I am greatly saddened that his obvious courage and altruism will be respected more after his death than during his life! Please help him to live, and give him unbridled support now, so that his life is a continuing legacy, rather than just another respectable, staged “ snuff movie” and world spectacled tragedic theatrical powerplay! Peter Cvek Meeniyan

Social solution

Yes, because the Queen isn’t relevant anymore. Laura Meikle Meeniyan

Yeah, deﬁnitely, because we are big enough and old enough and man enough to look after ourselves. I don’t think royalty is relevant anymore. Jim McGufﬁe Moe

No, I don’t think we should have to answer to someone like a president. We are the lucky country and should stay that way. Barb Austin (with Amber Turvey) Perth

Deﬁnitely, I’ll get naturalised and become an Australian. I’m a British subject and at the moment we all are. I was born in Scotland. Brian Stuart Meeniyan

I REFER to Stephen Green’s letter in the last Star entitled “Not so evil”. Whilst Mr Green believes that “the teaching and promotion of good social behaviour” is a good thing, he believes it “does not require the inclusion of Christianity or any other faith to be effective”. However, our society is experiencing ever-greater levels of anti-social behaviour despite the large-scale removal of Christianity from the public sphere.

In his letter, he also casts doubt on Christianity’s key role in Western civilisation, focuses on the failings of some Christians and notes that non-Christian societies have been able to “function for a very long time”. Dealing with Mr Green’s points in reverse order, I agree that there have been many nonChristian societies which have been able to “function”. However, many of them were not very moral and just societies. Some of these societies forbade women from formal education, practiced human sacriﬁce, suppressed freedom of speech, practiced genocide and engaged in other oppressive conduct. Some of these societies continue to function today. As they lack a Christian foundation to their laws and society, they are capable of practising great cruelty towards their citizens. Just because a society “functions” does not mean it functions well or fairly. It is unfair (but understandable) to judge a religion by the failings of some of its professed believers. However, even by that standard, Christianity would come off much better than atheism. People like Mao, Stalin, Hitler and Pol Pot were all leaders and promoters of atheistic regimes, and are responsible for the worst genocides of the 20th Century. Finally, the social development and continued well-being of our society would be much more difﬁcult to achieve without Christianity. Christian teachings such as service before self, respect for others, helping the poor and disadvantaged, temperance, subsidiarity, and respect for fundamental human rights are all in decline, and this is causing a crisis in our society. It is therefore up to all Christians and people of good will to promote Christian principles and behave in a Christian way towards others in our community. We can each make a big difference if we try. Suryan Chandrasegaran Nerrena

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 13

By Chris Brown NEW sheep and lam lamb pens at VLE Leongatha at Koon Koonwarra were officially opened opene on Thursday. VLE managing director V Graham Osborne said they Gr were trying to gain animals w that th had been sold at Ballarat and Bendigo and direct. “On Thursday we had some prices better than Ballarat and as a whole the yarding competed very effectively against Ballarat prices,” he said. “There’s 100,000 sheep and lambs out there to be picked up and get back into the t Leongatha yards. If we can c do that effectively and get ge buyer support that, to us, is the th first step.” The $1 million yards Th have multiple improvements over the facility at Korumburra they replace. Bugle shaped drafts and V shaped races help the lambs move around easier, reducing stress on them and saving labour units. Dry flooring won’t get muddy as quickly as Korumburra’s concrete floor. VLE managing director Graham Osborne, said pens open sequentially so if someone has a big draft of lambs they can all be displayed at once and sold as a bulk lot. “The pens are narrower so the buyers don’t have to get into them and the product is closer for their inspection and they can feel the sheep,” he said.

New yards: cost about $1 million to build.

“There’s more cross lanes and the shape of the yards is far superior. It makes the movement of sheep far more efﬁcient. “There are no cat walks for the agents to fall off and balance on and get on and off all day. They have an alleyway to walk in and they are protected.” The only teething problem required a few gate changes, which cost less than $5000. Lamb producers The Star spoke to were all reasonably happy with the new yards. Buyers from Radfords at Warragul said it was a good facility where the lambs displayed well. Gippsland South MP Peter Ryan also welcomed the construction of the new sheep and lamb yards. “We’ve had sales being done as far away as Ballarat because we haven’t had, until now, the facilities to do it properly,” he said. South Gippsland Stock and Station Agents Association president Stewart Jenkins said agents appreciated VLE support in building the yards at VLE Leongatha. “This is the last transition from Korumburra and we are very happy to see them up and running,” he said. Mr Osborne said a perimeter fence, new scales, and more external cattle pens and loading/load out cattle ramps will be built at VLE Leongatha. “There’s enough work there to keep us going for three years,” he said. “Then we might get a roof on the balance of the cattle yards; the foundations are already in.”

At the sale: Cathi and Warren Raabe (Korumburra) said the new yards look the part.

DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES

Ofﬁcial opening: Gippsland South MP Peter Ryan had the honour of declaring the yards open. He is with VLE managing director Graham Osborne.

Free Soil Health Seminar

with shells

Come and hear International Soil and Environmental Scientist Pam Pittaway on soil health improvement techniques, including compost use in broadacre and intensive agriculture and horticulture. Product displays by five composting companies.

2.30pm:

without shells

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The daily recreational catch limit for pipis within Cape Liptrap Coastal Park, between Point Smythe and Arch Rock including Venus Bay, remains 2 litres in the shell or half a litre without the shell. This reduced catch limit was introduced in May 2009 and remains in place for the 2009-10 summer. For more information about DPI visit the website at www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing or call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186

PAGE 14 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Love in the time of silage By Chris Brown MARK Dowling is putting himself out there.

Written on silage: Berrys Creek dairy farmer Mark Dowling with his creation.

“Ch 9 Farmer Wants a Wife – this farmer is single” he wrote on a row of wrapped silage on the family farm bordering the Strzelecki Highway at Berrys Creek. The 22-year-old dairy farmer painted the message, half jokingly, at the suggestion of a cousin. It’s attracted plenty of attention. Impressed travellers stop for a quick photo from the side of the highway and Mark has received three letters of interest that were left in the cow shed and on the tractor. “Dear single farmer, saw your bales and thought I would leave you my number,” said one of the notes. He’s still single though. Mark met the host of Farmer Wants a Wife, Natalie Gruzlewski, when she was in Mirboo North for travel show Getaway late last year. He passed on his details to be considered for an appearance in any future series of the program. Mark is a relaxed, laidback and hard working bloke, who plays table tennis and is passionate about his cars. While this is Mark’s most notable silage message it’s not his ﬁrst.

He’s been painting messages on silage bales for a few years now. “Mark’s castle” and “Sparky’s pyramid” (Sparky is Mark’s nickname) have intrigued highway passers-by in recent years. This season the dairy farmer knew exactly what he wanted to do. “I had the “Great Wall of Berrys Creek” planned since the year before, so I was just waiting to do it,” Mark said. Although someone with misinformed concerns about grammar has walked into the paddock and, incorrectly, painted a red apostrophe between the ‘y’ and ‘s’ on Berrys Creek. On the bales below the “great wall” is a tribute to Mark’s cousins: “Sparky’s angels: Elise, Ainslee and Skye” it says. This year Mark’s neighbours asked him to create a silage message proclaiming “Claas Country” with a picture of a tractor. As the silage has to be stacked in rows anyway, the hour or so Mark used a paintbrush and bathroom paint to write the words is the only extra time needed for the paddock statements. Soon the cattle will need the silage for feed and the messages will come down. But Mark will try to leave his advertisement for a partner until last. And there’s always next silage season for the next message written on silage bales.

Classics come to park MOSSVALE Park will come alive again with a classical performance next month, when the Music for the People concert is held.

People’s concert: VCO soloists soprano Jane O’Toole, tenor Raymond Khong and baritone Ian Cousins will again perform during the Music for the People concert at Mossvale Park on Sunday, February 28.

Now in its 42nd year, the concert has set a tradition that attracts local residents as well as the many visitors spending their summer break in the region. With an entrance fee of only $10 per person and children under 15 admitted free, it represents an affordable family day out. Visitors are invited to bring a rug or a fold up chair to relax and enjoy the music. Held on Sunday, February 28, the concert’s centrepiece is the Victorian Concert Orchestra. It is interesting to note that Mossvale Park is the only rural Victorian centre the orchestra visits. Soloists again are VCO soprano Jane O’Toole, tenor Raymond Khong and baritone Ian Cousins. Supporting the orchestra are the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band, the South Gippsland Wind Orchestra and the Browns Cows Orchestra and Show Band, providing ﬁve hours of popular classics, light opera, old favourites and excerpts from modern musicals from 11am onwards. Sausages, sandwiches, soft drinks, tea and coffee can be purchased at the kiosk operated by the Scouts and Cubs. The concert is sponsored by the South Gippsland Shire Council and operated by volunteers. For details, call council’s community strengthening ofﬁcer Sophie Dixon, on 5662 9202.

A big event

Ball of cash

the same – enjoying life in Australia.” Citizenship ceremonies will be held at Cowes and Wonthaggi, the latter starting at 7.30am. David Parkin will speak at both. Two new awards have been added to those presented every year. The new ones are a family achievement award and environmental ambassador of the year. The Inlet Swim Classic at Inverloch at 7.30am, will be followed by a ﬂag raising. Celebrations will also be held at Pound Creek, Glen Alvie, Kernot and Corinella.

The money was shared between the Bass Coast Community Foundation and Mitchell House, with past mayor Cr John Duscher making the presentation. He said he was pleased the ﬁnal amount had been so much and the ball had been a highlight of his mayoral year. Planning is already underway for this year’s event, with new mayor Cr Peter Paul, saying he is looking forward to hosting the ball on Friday August 27. “The theme is yet to be announced, but I can tell you it will be intriguing.”

THE varied facets of life in South Gippsland will be reﬂected in the Australia Day celebrations planned across Bass Coast Shire. They include an early morning swim, citizenship ceremonies, talks by former AFL player and coach David Parkin, sausage sizzles and entertainment. “This is a day when the community comes together and celebrates what makes being an Australian great,” said mayor Cr Peter Paul. “It is an opportunity to celebrate our diversity and what makes us all

BASS Coast Council raised $14,000 at its 2009 annual mayoral ball.

Meals roster (Leongatha) Mr & Mrs Hogan, Uniting Church Guild, Smith & Heide (18th, 20th, 21st, 22nd) and National Bank (19th) will be responsible for the delivery of meals on wheels, the week beginning January 18, 2010.

Cash hand over: former Bass Coast Mayor John Duscher (centre) with Bass Coast Community Foundation chair Alan Brown and deputy chair Sylvia Davey.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 15

Glenda’s a real doll By Matt Dunn GLENDA Ross will sometimes spend up to 50 hours making a single doll. The knitted creations are more than just toys though. For about the past 10 years Glenda has been delivering the dolls to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, helping to bring some sunshine into the sometimes dark lives of sick and dying children. “I’d been doing them well before ’96 and I just had a whole pile of them – all different ones. This just sort of grew, with other people making rugs and so forth to go down to the Children’s,” she said. “I just thought, ‘I don’t want them.’ The grandchildren didn’t want them, because they were all boys. I had no use for them, so I took them down there and they loved them. They still do.” Glenda visits the hospital about twice a year, well stocked with the dolls. She has delivered

about 400 to date. “Sometimes we’ve got lots and lots and sometimes we haven’t got much. But it’s not only the dolls that go down, but blankets and rugs as well,” she said. Hats for “the cancer kids” have also been popular. One group of footy themed dolls was rafﬂed at the hospital for $3600. Glenda does not talk to the children, but she knows well enough the positive effect her gifts have. “I just drop them off at the auxiliary and they take them up to the wards, where they go up to the beds. The children can play with the toys or if someone’s extra sick they can have one when they wake up from an operation or whatever,” she said. “I enjoy making them and someone’s getting the beneﬁt of them.” While Glenda also makes some of the rugs that are taken to the hospital, there is a dedicated

band of crafty volunteers helping out too. “I’ve got a group of people – we have a craft group every Tuesday – and some of them do rugs and some of them do other things. It’s mostly rugs and toys,” she said. There are about six regulars in the group, and they can knit up a storm. She said her family was “quite happy for her to do it” despite the intense effort each doll requires. These are no factory-made mass produced disposal items, but rather keepsakes for a lifetime. “Some of the bigger dolls take about 50 hours. That’s with all the knitting. There’s a lot of knitting in some of them. Some of them are quite big,” she said. “I love doing it.”

Glenda Ross: the doll maker is part of a group that has dedicated itself to bringing some sunshine into the lives of patients at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

• OBITUARY

Vale Kerry A RICH tapestry of life is the legacy Kerry Quinlan has left her family and many friends. Kerry died on December 21, following a stroke. She was 51. She and her husband Dr Tim Lowe settled in Koonwarra in the late 1980s, at a time when a lot of people their age were moving in to the area. Many became Kerry’s friends. She and Tim set up their home with a garden and vineyard and, with their sons Connor and Callan, quickly became involved in community life. The Leongatha Children’s Centre, Leongatha kindergartens, Community House Playgroup and toy library, book clubs, primary school and local women’s investment group Wolfgang, numbered among Kerry’s interests. The Koonwarra Store also featured in her life. She was a midwife and considered her 24 hours “on call” work with nursing mothers the best job she had ever had. As a lactation consultant, she had a very afﬁrming approach to her clients. Kerry had a great sense of humour and fun and a very strong sense of social justice. She was a vibrant, thinking person who loved to discuss life’s big questions and was always respectful of views that were different from her own. Twelve years ago, Kerry fell while walking with her family at Eagle’s Nest near Inverloch. Her friend Mary Ross-Heazlewood said, “She rose to meet her many challenges with determination and courage and focused on remaining positive. As I sat with her at the Austin Hospital, she said to me: if I am going to be a paraplegic, I will try to be a glamorous one!” Her courage and stoicism were coupled with a determination to regain as much independence as possible and to remain vitally and actively involved with her children’s education, to return to the work force and keep up her social networks. Kerry became a passionate advocate for wheelchair access and for the rights of those conﬁned to them. The close friends she had made during the time she and her family lived in South Gippsland remained strong when Tim’s work resulted in a move to Colac. Wheelchair bound, Kerry knew her risk of stroke was elevated. Her friends say it was typical of her sincere and compassionate nature that she was very generous with her wishes for organ donation. Her funeral was held at Springvale Cemetery on December 29.

What are my options for recording digital TV? After the analog TV signals are switched off you’ll still be able to play all your old analog videos or DVDs without any new equipment. However, if you want to record digital TV, you have two main options.

Option 1

Option 2

• Connect a digital set top box to your current analog VCR or DVD recorder.

• Buy a Digital TV Recorder to replace your current VCR or DVD recorder. • Please note, a Digital TV Recorder has a set top box built in, so you do not need an additional set top box for your anaolg TV.

Set top box

VCR or DVD recorder

Digital TV Recorder

Analog TV

Digital TV

Analog TV

For more information on recording • Call 1800 20 10 13 • Visit australia.gov.au/digitalready Lasting legacy: Kerry Quinlan will be remembered for her remarkable courage, compassion and love of life.

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PAGE 16 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Bay of fire fear By Chris Brown VENUS Bay is a high risk fire area.

Fire danger: Tarwin Lower and District brigade captain John Classon in Venus Bay last week.

The third estate with its proximity to Point Smythe and abundance of tea tree is the most dangerous part of town. A portable siren warning system is being established in the estate. Reserves with native trees scattered throughout the area also raise the summer risk. Last week Jupiter Park hosted Department of Sustainability, CFA, Parks Victoria and South Gippsland Shire representatives for a fire in the coastal environment session last Wednesday. Being a tourist destination also increases the fire risk. This summer the fire brigade has had a couple of call-outs to houses where occupants have lit camp fires in the front yard. In previous years boaters have stopped at Point Smythe and lit camp fires that they only partly extinguished. Tarwin Lower and District Brigade captain John Classon said some permanent residents of Venus Bay have complained that holiday homes aren’t looked after. “There’s high grass and ground fuel that hasn’t been cleared,” he said. “A few of our permanent residents have been in touch with the shire and notices have been sent

out but there doesn’t seem to be follow-up to see if they have been complied with.” Mr Classon knows of one shire reserve where the grass is one metre high. “All we can do is ask the public to persevere with the holiday influx and keep an eye on their neighbour’s property,” he said. “If you see the slightest bit of smoke, don’t hesitate to call 000.” Mr Classon said being fire ready comes back to common sense. “Clear the ground around the property, make sure the gutters are clear and the hoses are ready,” he said. “I think in general people are very much aware of what they need to do. “The difference this year is that people want to know where they should go. We can’t tell them because of litigation.” All CFA officers can say is

where they would seek safety themselves. “This is the frustration,” Mr Classon said. “We have had three fire ready meetings and it came through loud and clear that people want to be told where to go.” The advice to get out was also problematic People without relatives to stay with would struggle to stay away from their homes if the fire danger extended over several days. Mr Classon said there were quite a few elderly people in Venus Bay who don’t have a car they can use to leave town in. The CFA captain said the only risky area in Tarwin Lower was near the reserves on the way to Walkerville. “Otherwise we class it as pretty manageable,” he said. “In general Tarwin Lower is pretty safe compared to other areas.” Improvements to Tarwin Lower station, including seven phone lines, have prepared it for use as an incident control centre for a small fire event. A new tanker, valued at almost $200,000, destined for Walkerville is due to be delivered in June. However attempts to construct a satellite shed to house it have been caught up in bureaucracy.

Making Victoria FireReady:

Victoria’s regional and coastal areas are great to visit, but make sure you’re FireReady.

Summer is a great time to experience Victoria’s beautiful countryside and stunning coastal areas. But summer is also bushﬁre season, so it’s important to always take the following precautions before travelling and when you’re in these areas. • If you are in a bushﬁre prone area and a Code Red Fire Danger Rating is declared, the safest option is to leave the night before or early in the morning.

• Stay aware of weather conditions and the Fire Danger Rating. • For the latest fire warnings, listen to ABC Local Radio, commercial radio stations or Sky News television, go to cfa.vic.gov.au or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667. • Visit the CFA website for handy tips and information on travelling or holidaying in bushfire prone areas.

For more information contact:

1800 240 667 www.cfa.vic.gov.au

THE award-winning, adventure-seeking Nissan X-TRAIL is now even more appealing to compact SUV buyers thanks to a surge in standard equipment levels.

The Nissan X-TRAIL has always been the first choice for active, outdoor explorers, thanks to its spacious interior, choice of gutsy petrol or diesel engines and its authentic 4WD chassis. Within weeks of its Australian debut late in 2007, the new generation Nissan X-TRAIL captured two “Best Recreational 4WD” awards. With close to 90,000 Australian deliveries to date, the Nissan X-TRAIL has never had trouble winning approval. Now, a wave of specification improvements will make it even harder to resist, and raise its profile even more in the very competitive compact SUV market. The luxuriously appointed Nissan X-TRAIL Ti petrol and TL Turbo Diesel models add satellite navigation; a reversing camera that feeds images to the new seven-inch LCD touch-screen colour display located in the centre console; iPod connectivity via a USB plug; Bluetooth connectivity; CD player, DVD compatibility and steering wheel controls on the Ti (currently standard on TL). Externally, stylish new 18-inch alloy wheels and privacy glass complete the upgrade. This large array of luxury features adds only $2000 to the manufacturer’s list price of the Nissan X-TRAIL Ti – now priced from $42,490, while the Nissan X-TRAIL TL is now priced from $42,990 (plus dealer delivery and statutory charges)*. The Nissan X-TRAIL Ti and TL already feature leather upholstery and heated electrically adjustable front seats, panoramic sunroof and climate control air conditioning. For the mid-specification petrol-powered

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 17

Nissan X-TRAIL ST-L, many driver-friendly features are added, for an incremental cost of only $1000. The new Nissan X-TRAIL ST-L specification comprises a full leather seat trim; electrically adjustable front seats with front seat heating; steering wheel audio controls; privacy glass; Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel controls and iPod jack. The Nissan X-TRAIL ST-L is now priced from only $37,740 for the six-speed manual or from $40,240 for the CVT model (plus dealer delivery and statutory charges) The Nissan X-TRAIL TS Turbo Diesel model gains the iPod jack, Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel controls and privacy glass with no increase in price, from $37,740 (plus dealer delivery and statutory charges)*. The ever popular petrol-powered ST model adds the iPod jack, also with no price change, from $32,990 (plus dealer delivery and statutory charges). The Nissan X-TRAIL is powered by a strong but smooth 125kW 2.5 litre petrol engine mated to a choice of six-speed manual or fuel-saving constantly variable CVT auto transmissions, while the 2.0-litre Turbo Diesel provides 127kW, mated to a six-speed manual. For the six-speed automatic, the 2.0-litre Turbo Diesel is rated at 110kW. The ability of petrol variants and diesel manual variants to tow a braked trailer weighing up to 2000 kg gives it a key advantage over many rivals, as well as a handy benefit to the many customers with serious outdoor pursuits. All Nissan X-TRAIL models are fitted as standard with several advanced safety and convenience features, including ESP Electronic Stability Program (also known as VDC) and dual front, side and curtain airbags. All models feature an intelligent, electronically controlled 4WD system: ALL MODE 4x4-i, which includes hill

start assist and hill descent control for superior traction in all conditions. The Nissan X-TRAIL is renowned for its innovative storage system, which includes a clever two level luggage floor with a sliding drawer, ideal for hiding valuables or quarantining muddy activity gear, post-event. It also has a heating/cooling feature for the front and rear cupholders. A full 1773-litres stowage space is available with the rear seats folded – large enough to easily stow items such as mountain bikes. All Nissan X-TRAIL models destined for the Australian market are manufactured at Nissan’s Kyushu plant in Japan. “The Nissan X-TRAIL is an outstanding allrounder,” says Dan Thompson, CEO of Nissan Australia. “It provides authentic SUV performance on any surface, has plenty of room to stow your sports adventure gear and its choice of petrol or diesel engines means there’s a model to suit all compact SUV customers. “With this latest update we have added even more value. Our diesel models were a response to consumer demand and continue to represent outstanding value for money. They also strike the right note with buyers who are interested in reducing fuel consumption and emissions. “The improved specification package will make the Nissan X-TRAIL the first choice for those who want a well-specified, comfortable and sporty compact SUV which has shown its pedigree over the years and continues to improve,” said Thompson. “The ST-L model in particular gives us a lead over our rivals with its now standard leather seat trim and heated, electrically adjustable front seats.”

PAGE 18 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Sexual assault forum By Jane Ross REBECCA Harrison’s strong sense of social justice has prompted her to organise a forum on sexual assault and rape. This will be held at the Cowes Cultural Centre on January 20, between 6.30 and 8.30pm. “Most young women grow up fearing rape and sexual assault and we need to ask why is this the case?” queried Rebecca. “Why is one group so disproportionately victimised?” She believes there is need for a community debate about the subject, but will stress at the start of the forum that speciﬁc cases that are before the courts cannot be discussed. Social activism is nothing new to this 19-yearold Wonthaggi girl. As a young teenager, she used to attend rallies supporting refugees, sitting in a small cage to emphasise her views. Having completed Year 12 in 2008, Rebecca has taken a gap year during which she has volunteered at the Asylum Resource Centre in West Melbourne. She is looking forward to starting her Bachelor of Arts degree at Monash University this year, where she hopes to combine gender studies with student politics. Rebecca was brought up in a family that valued equality but she has been confronted by oth-

ers with different perspectives and she wonders how these occur. Sexism, she believes, is still very prevalent in our society. “It’s more in attitude and stereotypes than in institutions but the hardest thing to change is people’s attitudes and perspectives. “The media’s sexualisation of women is appalling.” Rebecca said she became aware of violence against women when she was 16 and has wanted to try to do something about it for some years. She is hoping for a wider discussion than that which is presented in the media. “The media focuses on the aftermath and neglects to talk about what causes the crimes and how communities can work to prevent them.” Speakers at her forum include representatives of the Gippsland Centre Against Sexual Assault, an advocate for young women’s rights and other local health care professionals. Gippsland CASA CEO Fiona Boyle, said she applauded Rebecca’s initiative. “We believe strongly that sexual assault is a community issue and forums like this are essential for people to band together rather than trying to do something on their own. “Increasing awareness is always a positive.” District Police Inspector Brian Curley agrees. “Violence against women is one of our broad community problems. It is quite good to raise (the

topic) in general but I hope there will be some purpose out of the forum.” CASA set up in Gippsland 21 years ago, with one counsellor. Now, there are 10. “The need is there, there is always a big demand,” said Fiona, adding that although the evidence is difficult to come by, she believes the rise in demand results from a greater willingness to seek help. In undertaking research for the forum, Rebecca said she had found it difficult to access statistics. But she has discovered the average age of watching pornography on the internet is 11 to 14. She is keen to debunk these myths around sexual assault: “she was asking for it” and “men have an uncontrollable sexual urge”. “Rape is a choice made by someone,” said Rebecca. It is her contention that society needs to confront negative ideas about women and sexuality and put forward more positive views. “Change happens through everyday people (taking action). It is only effective if it is carried out by people.” Rebecca is using her mother’s extensive network connections to help publicise the forum. She is the daughter of Jessica Harrison, who is active in genetically modified crop and desalination plant protests.

Forum organiser: Rebecca Harrison of Wonthaggi is hoping people will come to her forum on rape and sexual assault to be held at Cowes later this month.

Desal money wait BASS Coast Council is awaiting part payment of the $12 million road works needed in Wonthaggi to accommodate the desalination plant. Shire CEO Allan Bawden, said a bill for the work done so

far, amounting to around $6 million, had been lodged with the State Government and payment is expected within a month. This will take the form of an electronic funds transfer. Mr Bawden said the ﬁnancing costs had been built in to the quote the council gave the government

for the work. This has included the sealing of Lower Powlett Road which leads from Bass Highway to the desalination plant site at Williamsons Beach and a large roundabout at the intersection of Graham, South Dudley and West Area roads. Work on the latter has just begun.

New beginning: Pat Jackson (centre) has moved her Christian bookshop to the Bair Street end of Russell Court. Customers Erica Vanderland (left), Michael Richards and Anke Hofman called in to admire the new surroundings.

A new start

THE Christian bookshop, New Beginnings is coming up in the world.

That’s how its owner Pat Jackson jokingly refers to her move from the back of Russell Court to the fore. She now has a shop front onto Bair Street, in a large, light and airy store. Family and friends from the Anglican and Uniting churches in Leongatha helped Pat paint the premises and move in. Pat opened New Beginnings just over six years ago.

With a higher than average churchgoing community, Pat said there is a need in Leongatha for a shop like New Beginnings. She sells books, gifts, cards, CDs and religious items such as rosary beads and cruciﬁxes. Customers come from Leongatha and all over South Gippsland, said Pat. Now that she has more room, Pat will increase her stock. “Come in and have a look, I have quite an extensive range.”

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 19

Green and gold honour SOUTH Gippsland Australia Day Awards nominees will be honoured at a gala Awards Ceremony in the Leongatha Memorial Hall on Thursday, January 21 at 7.30pm. Nominated by their clubs and peers, the 14 nominees represent an extraordinary contribution to the South Gippsland community. They will vie for the titles of 2010 South Gippsland Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Community Event of the Year. “With seven local Australia Day events strewn across the Shire on Australia Day, the centralised ceremony prior to Australia Day has proven the best way to manage the awards, and the nominees are also celebrated at their local event,” Jeannie Hicks, South Gippsland Shire Council’s Australia Day co-ordinator said. “We really like to place the emphasis on honouring all nominees, rather than just the final recipients. It is difficult to imagine what our community would be like without the selfless efforts of these people and so many more like them.” Passing on their titles at the Ceremony will be last year’s recipients. South Gippsland Citizen of the Year 2009 Mr Neville Meikle was honoured 12 months ago for his services to agriculture and the Meeniyan community. Dynamic 21-year-old Nicole Harvey from Nyora nears the end of her year as South Gippsland Young Citi-

Together again: the renowned duo of Wendy Reed and Michael Warner is ready to celebrate Australia Day with its unique brand of music.

zen of the Year. Organisers of the highly successful ‘Dumbalk and District Back to’ Celebrations were the recipients of the 2009 Community Event of the Year. “It’s such a simple way to say thank you to the living treasures in our community, and we invite everyone to attend the awards ceremony and join us in honouring them,” Ms Hicks said. “The event is free, children are welcome and council is keen to foster an attitude of gratitude for the gift of being Australian and all that encompasses.”

Formal proceedings will be concluded by 9pm and a free supper will be provided for guests to mingle and celebrate with the nominees and their families and friends. Booking is not necessary. Guests are asked to be seated by 7.25pm to ensure a prompt start to the evening. Local musicians Wendy Reed and Michael Warner will provide a musical interlude during the ceremony and after. The duo’s performance will include a song written especially for the occasion, bringing a little bit of Austra-

Dynamic speakers for Australia Day SOUTH Gippsland will be graced with some inspirational speakers this Australia Day. David Jenkin AM will be the guest speaker at the Leongatha Australia Day event at McIndoe Park, which commences at 8.30 am. David spent the ﬁrst 25 years of his working life with Myer Emporium, rising from departmental manager/ buyer in the Melbourne City store to managing director of the Myer group in NSW. He is currently chair of the Corporate Advisory Group for World Vision Australia. David is the author of the best selling business book – What Great Retailers Do – 50 Keys to make your store a winner. David has been a plenary speaker at conferences in Australia and overseas, covering topics on leadership, vision, strategy and retail excellence. Meeniyan ambassadors and veteran performers Wendy Stapleton and Paul Norton will entertain with song rather than chat at the Meeniyan Hall at 8am. Wendy made her ﬁrst professional appearance at the age of nine at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Noel Coward’s Sail Away. She then performed regularly with J.C. Williamson’s for many years, combining this with weekly performances on GTV9’s Tarax Show. At 16 she became a professional vocalist and has performed with the best of Australian talent - among them John Farnham, Glen Shorrock Jon English and Joe Camilleri. Paul started playing bass in various Melbourne bands in his teens and

went on to record his later albums in America with the legendary T. Bone Wolk. Since then he has been involved in Australia and Europe, writing and producing with artists such as Debra Byrne, The Bushwackers, Colleen Hewitt and Wendy Stapleton. In 2000 Paul was chosen to perform Under a Southern Sky for Australia Day at the Sydney Olympics at Homebush Bay. Well known veterinarian and animal welfare activist Dr Hugh Wirth, will be guest of honour at the Mirboo North event at the Shire Hall at 11am. He is the recipient of numerous awards for his leadership and contribution to animal welfare. Bairnsdale born Kevin Howard will speak at the Corner Inlet event in Pearl Park, Foster at 2pm. Kevin taught in small rural schools before transferring to the specialist ﬁeld of Audio Visual Education, in Wangaratta, where he was in charge of the Audio Visual Education Centre for 25 years. He was a councillor of the City of Wangaratta for nine years, serving three terms as mayor, and was the foundation executive ofﬁcer and later deputy chairman and chairman of the North East Tourist Authority. This year’s Australia Day events will be held at Foster, Leongatha, Meeniyan, Mirboo North, Tarwin Lower, Kongwak and Jumbunna. Details are outlined in council’s Noticeboard ad in this paper.

liana to South Gippsland’s celebrations of nationhood. The pair has performed together intermittently over the past decade, playing at a wide range of events and venues across South Gippsland. Wendy won two song-writing awards from the North Coast Entertainment Industry in NSW and more recently released the track Angel on the Lyrebird Arts Council CD South Gippsland Uncovered, showcasing original local music. She spent the early days of her musical career playing in line-ups which

included rock, country and bluegrass. Wendy performed with the Hilltop Holdout Bluegrass Band that played regularly at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, on ABC’s Country Roads program, as well as a 12 month contract on Reg Lindsay’s Country Homestead in the eighties. Wendy has toured and played with the Bushwackers, Bullamakankas and New Grass Revival, an American bluegrass band featuring Leon Russell. A well known South Gippslander, Michael has played guitar for 40 years and is a highly creative and accomplished musician. He played in bands during the 70s and 80s and then settled into playing jazz for the last 20 years, performing at various festivals including the Inverloch Jazz Festival. Michael was also involved in the South Gippsland Uncovered CD writing his own material, as well as assisting with the musicianship and production of the CD. Lately, Michael has increasingly become an ‘internet’ musician, writing songs which he is targeting towards the American Film and Television industry as well as experimenting with unique and individually written telephone ringtones. Both Wendy and Michael are looking forward to being a part of the Australia Day Awards Ceremony Celebrations for South Gippsland and are in the process of writing an original song to celebrate the event.

PAGE 20 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

2010 Citizen of the Year practice they do each week, with the proceeds going to the Royal Children’s Hospital. Along with her students she has co-ordinated donations to the Lost Dogs Home and through these initiatives is constantly demonstrating good citizenship ethics to our young people.

A leading light: Carmel Slater is a woman who gets things done.

and was awarded life membership in 1998. The money raised by the association’s events is ploughed back into town improvements, local charities and individuals in need.

Eric Mould, Meeniyan

Stephen Halliday: a sporting chance to win Citizen of the Year.

Stephen Halliday, Poowong From driving the bus for Landcare excursions, umpiring at the football club or maintaining the secretarial and ﬁnancial records for many local groups, Stephen’s willing leadership and participation have contributed in so many practical ways to the Poowong community. Among those to beneﬁt from his time and skills are the Poowong Tennis Club, the Riverside Tennis Club, Poowong Consolidated School, Korumburra Secondary College, the Poowong Historical Group, Poowong Hall, the local Football Club, Landcare group, CFA, Recreation Reserve and Community Consultative Committee. Without exception he has undertaken positions of responsibility in all of these groups, from president to grants writer and secretary. As well he has happily participated in many working bees to make projects come to fruition. Stephen’s abiding interest in researching the history of his community has resulted in a number of publications that will preserve the heritage of

If you’re looking for a contributor for the long haul, then Eric Mould’s your man. Eric has been organising the well known Meeniyan Tavern Nights for 25 years, enabling scores of local performers to make their debut in show business, and returning regularly to entertain the community. They are held five times a year, featuring 8-10 acts with audiences of 150 plus in the Meeniyan Hall. As well, Eric guides an enthusiastic committee to present a Melbourne Cup long weekend of festivities built around the legendary Art and Craft Show which is in its 37th year. The events include a wine and cheese opening, jazz night, garden walks and a market over five days. His ability to garner and sustain community interest in innovative ideas has contributed to Meeniyan becoming widely renowned as a significant arts hub in the region. He regularly attends Council Arts Network meetings and contributes his expertise to members from other towns. He is a member of the RSL and was instrumental in co-ordinating the Meeniyan and District 90th anniversary celebrations in November 2009. Eric joined the Meeniyan Progress Association in 1973, has held executive positions including events and entertainment co-ordinator for 36 years,

from stallholders raised funds for further hall improvements.

Ken Marshman: the Lionhearted leader has many different community interests.

Eric Mould: the beating heart of Meeniyan.

Carmel Slater, Leongatha Carmel has been teaching piano and theory for 28 years, guiding an average of 90 students per week in musical skills and appreciation. But it is for the selﬂess contribution of her extraordinary talent she is being nominated, giving hundreds of hours of her time each year as rehearsal and orchestral pianist for a large number of theatrical productions with the Leongatha Lyric Theatre, FAMDA, and the Warragul and Wonthaggi Theatre Groups. Many VCE music students also call upon Carmel to accompany them in their exams in Melbourne, entailing long hours of rehearsal outside her normal teaching hours. She also attends many eisteddfods in support of her students and is regularly called on by their organisers for her great expertise. In 2008 Carmel deservedly received the Victorian Guild Theatre’s Musician’s award for her contribution to musical theatre. She has organised numerous concerts over the years, giving her students a rare platform to perform in public. All proceeds from these concerts are donated to local organisations such as Koorooman House and Rotary. Carmel encourages her students to gather sponsorship for the hours of

the Poowong community for future generations.

The peacemaker: known for her ability to quell arguments, Myra Smith is an excellent nominee.

Myra Smith, Jumbunna Myra Smith has given outstanding service and nurturing support to her Jumbunna community for more than 50 years, engaging young and old in her determination to retain amenities and a strong community spirit. She is known as the ‘peacemaker’ in the Jumbunna community. In 1954 she took on the role of treasurer for the Jumbunna Hall and at the AGM in 1959 the roles of secretary/ treasurer were combined. Myra continued to serve in this capacity for a further 50 years until last year when she relinquished the secretary’s role but remains as treasurer. In 1984 the ﬁrst Bush Market was held and it continues as one of the longest running in the region. This was in response to the threatened closure of the hall and funds were needed to keep it functioning for the beneﬁt of the wider community. Without the efforts of Myra and other members of the committee, the hall would have ceased to exist. Funds were raised, the kitchen was modernised, country tucker was sold and income

Ken Marshman, Leongatha Ken has been a Lion with the Leongatha Club for 27 years and has earned the Lion’s highest international award, the Melvin Jones Award, for his outstanding contribution to both the organisation and the community. He is also the recipient of the International President’s Award for past services to Lionism, and Ian Stockdale Humanitarian Award. Ken’s culture of community work started at the tender age of eight, when he helped his father deliver lunches for the Presbyterian Scotch Fair. By 16 he was participating in working bees for the Leongatha A & P Show, a link that continued for the next 45 years. His name pops up in records of gratitude for cubs and scouts leadership, the school council, the Leongatha Horticulture Club, Leongatha Camera and Woodworking clubs. For the past 11 years he has been a member of Legacy and will take on the presidency in 2010. Ken never sits back. In all clubs he has joined he has served on the committee and even when his health has challenged him, he has continued with his voluntary commitments.

Community Event of the Year nominations Tour de Tarwin

17th Gippsland Scout Corroboree

Meeniyan Winefest

Venus Bay Nominated by the Tour de Tarwin organising committee During a casual walk and ride in 2006, a community-minded group saw the possibilities of an event that could link the towns of Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay more closely, and bring together the local and transient communities in a friendly, noncompetitive way. That idea became a reality with this fun annual family event held on Easter Saturday over the past three years, and growing exponentially from a participation rate of 270 in 2007 to 495 in 2009. The success of Tour de Tarwin lies in its inclusiveness of people of all ages and levels of fitness, and drawing together the highly compatible themes of community, health and leisure in a safely managed environment. A highly competent organising committee has garnered significant sponsorship and has worked hard to make the event interesting and sustainable, with profits of $10,000 this year going to the Tarwin Lower CFA and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Over $4000 of this was raised by a giant “CFA You Beaut” raffle, which requires a lot of organisation and hard work to procure the contents and to sell the tickets. The high number of visitors to the area over the Easter holiday period is well capitalised upon. The event has been successful in fostering community pride and ownership, and residents have been a powerful resource as goodwill ambassadors and volunteers for the many logistical roles that need to be filled. It has served to motivate other local groups to appreciate what can be done when working cohesively for a cause. Approximately 44 people were involved in the staging of the event. Support came from local businesses in the form of sponsorship and promotional support, mailing out flyers with their regular business material, for example. The event is to be commended for the effort in making their event sustainable within just three years, and the positive recognition it has garnered for a beautiful part of our shire.

Nyora Nominated by South Gippsland District Scouts Last April more than 500 young people and adults from Gippsland, Mornington Peninsula, Geelong and Melbourne gathered for this outstanding regional Corroboree at Nyora. The event was a major prelude to the national Jamboree held this month in NSW. A wide variety of day activities were organised at Bell Park to challenge and entertain the scouts. These included bush cycling, abseiling, orienteering, crate stacking, canoeing and a water slide. And as the sun set, campfires were lit, Easter egg hunts, meal swaps, music and movies rounded off the days. A Thanksgiving service was also held. The committee of 12 scout leaders worked co-operatively to ensure that issues of OH and S, activities and entertainment, first aid and welfare, maintenance, catering and works and services administration were taken care of. The committee met monthly, with the secretary effectively holding all points of contact so that communication was clear and direct. All sub committees were encouraged bring new members on board to train, and a detailed debriefing report was compiled to assist the organisers of the next Corroboree. Council kindly delivered the stage and provided rubbish bins and collection services free of charge. Many local suppliers also provided food and services at cost for the event. This event is non profit and the fees charged covered all costs plus a provision to assist with the preparation for the next Corroboree in 2012 to be held in Baw Baw Shire. As a result of the event, the permanent Scout Camp at Bell Park has had improvements to buildings and roads and its water supply. Scouting traditions and friendships were strengthened and the profile of scouting in the community was increased.But the real reward lies in the developing character and skills of our young scouts and rovers. The Movement and such events build a strong foundation of citizenship and life skills that will sustain the participants throughout their lives.

Meeniyan Nominated by the Meeniyan Progress Association The Winefest was developed to counteract the global and very local woes that were clouding the normally positive Meeniyan community spirit. These ranged from the Prom fires which resulted in a dramatic decrease in through traffic, the ongoing drought, economic crisis, the drop in milk prices and the collapse of SESI that affected both individuals and many local groups and sporting clubs. The final straw came when the Meeniyan supermarket burnt down, devastating the local community. Local resident Ilsa Arndt came up with the idea of a Winefest to reignite the community’s verve, and it did. Local groups, wineries and food producers responded enthusiastically and the event, held on the Queen’s Birthday enticed visitors and locals alike to stop and join in the festivities. Over 400 people descended on the hall, as one observer said: “Like a plague of locusts!” Sipping and sampling local wines and cheeses and the delights of fabulous country cooking sold through the Red Cross stall. The CWA and the Historical society also mounted interesting displays in the hall. A display of vintage cars and Fergie tractors, the CFA complete with Captain Koala, and several musical acts kept visitors entertained in nearby Tanderra Park. The event returned a small profit, but more importantly the aim of boosting the town’s morale was achieved with great success. The community pride has been enduring and people are looking forward to repeating the event this year. Whilst Ilsa was the driving force, the Meeniyan Progress Association and the Meeniyan Community Shop became heavily involved, and the spontaneous support from the community was inspiring. Meeniyan continues to attract and amaze visitors with its creative active community that searches for opportunities and not excuses. With only a small business sector, much of the work is carried out by residents who gain no pecuniary benefit, but just have the welfare of their town at heart.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 21

Australia Day ofﬁcial calendar

nominees

Corner Inlet

Stan Elliott, Leongatha Stan has been nominated for his outstanding service to music in South Gippsland through his involvement with the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band and the Wonthaggi Citizens Band. In 2009 he received a Victorian Bands League service award for 67 years of contribution to the League. Joining the Wonthaggi Citizens’ band in 1940 at the tender age of 10, such was his talent that Stan was cajoled in1968 to move from Wonthaggi to Leongatha with the offer of a house and a job organised by the then Woorayl Municipal Band. In South Gippsland he has been bandmaster, deputy bandmaster, committee member, principal cornet player, music teacher, mentor and friend to fellow musicians over 41 years - a period when he has only missed one performance at our legendary “Music for the People.” Over the past 30 years many will remember his soulful bugling on Anzac and Remembrance days and at RSL funerals. He played saxophone in Jean Stewart’s dance band across the region for many years, and has played with the Heralds at Masonic Lodge functions since the 1950s. He has often performed with the Brass Band outside the South Gippsland area and has built lasting friendships and respect with musicians across Gippsland, Victoria and interstate. Stan is also a keen bowler, having joined the Leongatha Bowls Club in 1987. During that period he has won championships, served as president and on numerous committees and became an accredited national umpire in 2004. Stan’s musical talent has been exponentially increased through his students and has brought great delight to the South Gippsland community.

Mark Bourke: the Mirboo North CFA captain has the respect of his community.

Mark Bourke, Mirboo North Blooming marvellous: the always busy and community minded Nadia Stefani. services at Sandy Point and Tidal River during the Christmas holiday period. She is a driving force in the Italian community across Victoria, always at the forefront of bringing these groups together in celebration and support of their families and culture. Her garden is opened to the public each year to raise funds for the Anti-Cancer Foundation and she supports the local football club with hearty meals. She also cooked for emergency workers during the Prom bush ﬁres and has worked for the primary school for 25 years.

As Captain of the Mirboo North CFA, Mark’s outstanding leadership skills were showcased last year during the devastating fire season. His ability to encourage people to focus on what needs to be done, his preparatory crew training and his consummate skills in fire technology invoked a calm discipline in his team and the community when faced with frightening challenges. A voluntary member of the brigade for 27 years and captain for four, Mark is a clear and capable communicator, liaising with other brigades and agencies and giving talks on fire safety in the community. As a CFA member he is often called to road accidents that can be devastating, and he brings compassionate order to the often traumatic job at hand. His voluntary work in the community extends to cutting and collecting wood for fundraising, and providing transport for elderly citizens. He also provides a mentoring role for younger people experiencing difficulty in their lives.

David Iser: the good doctor helps out in many different ways.

David Iser, Foster

Bandmaster extraordinaire: Stan has hit the right note people in Leongatha.

Nadia Stefani, Fish Creek Nadia expresses her love of the community straight from the heart, by showering friends and strangers with beautiful ﬂower arrangements from her garden and wonderful treats from her kitchen. They may be given to cheer someone up, celebrate an occasion, or to raise funds for a worthy cause, but the warmth of her intent is unmistakeable. Volunteering is not a commitment or chore: it is simply that she gets so much pleasure from helping others. Nadia’s involvement in the community is diverse. She is a member of the hall committee, the Fish Creek Development Group, the Catholic Women’s League, the Chorale Singers, works with family support groups, organises Christmas Carols and assists as a lay person at her church. She also helps with

Dr David Iser has worked tirelessly as a GP and advocate for health infrastructure for the Corner Inlet community for the past 27 years. He has been involved in two major rebuilds of the South Gippsland Hospital and was proactive in obtaining funds for the building of the Community Health Care Centre. His great vision combined with his logistical, grant writing and people skills has contributed to the high quality of health services that residents can access at Foster. Many doctors have been trained by David through the Rural Doctor program and two graduate medical students will work under his guidance at Foster. His support of this program extends to planning for inclusion of student accommodation in the current rebuild of the Foster Medical Centre. So dedicated is he that he has been known to sleep on outpatients trolleys when too busy to leave the hospital, and to travel with seriously ill patients to Melbourne in the ambulance, and then hitchhike back on occasion. He is the epitome of the compassionate rural doctor who cares deeply about his patients and goes the extra mile to ensure they have the best chance of recovery. He has also run many health education sessions in the community and is a patron of the Corner Inlet Heart Support Group.

Denis Casey: building a great community at Nyora.

Denis Casey, Nyora A retired builder, Denis has contributed his industry experience and great people skills to almost every community group in Nyora. As a member of the Nyora Community Centre management committee, he helped complete a major facelift and is finalising further plans. Twice president of the Nyora and District Development Association (NADA) and currently vice president, a ‘Village Green’ park, with a gazebo, toilet block and gardens were created under Denis’ leadership. With wife Silvia, he also assumed responsibility for the three year life of the Nyora Market which raised much needed funding for the community. An active member of the Lions Club of Strzelecki, Denis manages stallholder parking at the Loch Sunday markets, participates in working bees, district conventions and is currently helping to make a home more accessible for a person with a disability. At the South Gippsland Tourist Railway he has assumed responsibility for the Nyora station, track and local signals. He has been an active CFA member for 19 years, fighting fires all over Victoria.

12noon: Barbecue (Toora Lions), music, stalls and community displays. 1pm: Judging of fancy dress competition Kevin and Margaret Howard. 2pm: Ofﬁcial ceremony: Raise the ﬂag Toora RSL, National Anthem, introduction of Australia Day Ambassador Mr Kevin Howard OAM, Ambassador’s address, Community Event of the Year presented by Peter Ryan MP, Young Citizen of the Year presented by Peter Ryan MP, Citizen of the Year presented by Peter Ryan MP. 3pm: Close.

Jumbunna Jumbunna Hall 8.30am: Breakfast on the balcony - music to be provided by Willy Golightly. 9.50am: Call to order - guests invited into the hall for ceremony. 10am: Formal welcome by MC, Joy Huson - Acknowledgement of Country. Flag Raising Ceremony - Scouts and Guides. National Anthem led by Britt Lewis. Award Ceremony awards to be presented by last year’s recipients. Montage to be presented by Anne Patterson. Invite everyone outside for tree planting of Woolamai pine donated and planted by Marlene Hemming and Arne Sorensen. Invite everyone to stay on for tea and coffee.

Kongwak

Kongwak Hall 8.30am: Free breakfast. 9.30am: Welcome. 9.35am: Guest speaker - Stacy Witton. 10am: Flag raising, National Anthem.

Leongatha 8.15am: South Gippsland Shire Brass Band, distribution of flags by Scouts and Guides. 8.30am: Call to order - Master of Ceremonies - Ms Leonnie McClusky. 8.33am: Flag Raising - followed by National Anthem. 8.38am: President - Sue Miles, welcome, introduce Australia Day Ambassador David Jenkin AM. 8.45am: Ambassador’s address - Mr David Jenkin. 8.55am: MC thanks Mr Jenkin, invites Woolworths representative (TBC). 9am: MC introduces president Sue Miles. 9.10am: Shire and local award presentations by politician. 9.20am: Musical interlude: Jen Monks 9.30am: Citizenship Ceremony by Mayor (TBC) 9.45am: MC introduces L&DADC president Sue Miles for presentation to guests 9.50am: Australian Affirmation (on program) 9.55am: Official proceedings conclude 10am: Australian breakfast provided by Leongatha community groups. Activities - face painting, jumping castles, giant puzzles and games and stilts.

Optional extras: From 1.30pm Leongatha Historical Society will have an open day and ofﬁcially open their renovations, including afternoon tea. Mechanic’s Institute, McCartin Street, Leongatha. From 1pm to 6pm South Gippsland SPLASH will be celebrating Australia Day with fun and games at the pool. Roughead Street, Leongatha.

Meeniyan 8am: Flag-raising by RSL. 8.05am: Welcome speech by MC. 8.08am: Singing of Advance Australia Fair 8.10am: Afﬁrmation. 8.12am: Reading by two youth representatives. 8.14am: MC introduces Ms Stapleton and Mr Norton. 8.16am: Address by Australia Day Ambassador, Ms Wendy Stapleton. 8.24am: MC thanks Ms Stapleton and Mr Norton. 8.25am: Introduction of award recipients. 8.35am: Ms Wendy Stapleton and Mr Paul Norton sing Under a Southern Sky. Local singing group (Ecumenical choir). 8.42am: Close of formalities.

Mirboo North 9.45am: Children’s activities. 10am: Morning tea with music to set the mood. 10.30am: Call to Order - welcome by MC Ian Bristow, ﬂag-raising and National Anthem. 10.40am: Afﬁrmation, led by Cr. David Lewis. 10.45am: South Gippsland Shire awards announced by Cr. David Lewis. Presentation of children’s prizes. 11am: MC introduces Dr. Hugh Wirth, Australia Day Ambassador. Australia Day address by Dr. Hugh Wirth. Presentation by Woolworth’s representative. 11.20am: Australia Day Prayer, read by Pastor John Robertson. 11.25am: Music from Narelle and Rebekkah Salinger. 11.45am: Australia Day Awards presented by Mr Peter Ryan MP and Rhonda Bottoms, 2009 Citizen of the Year. 12 noon: Twenty Sixers Club cake cutting. 12.05pm: Closing remarks by MC Ian Bristow on behalf of the Mirboo North Australia Day committee.

Tarwin Lower 8am: Welcome to all by Muriel Riley. 8.05am: To compere Kieran Kennedy. Raising of ﬂag and National Anthem. 8.10am: Australia Day Afﬁrmation by public. 8.15am: Public discussion. 8.25am: Reading by a member of public. 8.30am: Breakfast. 10am: Close.

Young Citizen of the Year James Abbott, 21, Korumburra

JAMES is an outstanding role model for the young people of South Gippsland. His long involvement in Rovers and Scouts has assisted him to grow from a shy young teenager into a caring and conﬁdent young man, quietly demonstrating his leadership qualities through his outstanding listening skills, and his ability to guide, nurture and support young people. James has ‘walked the walk’, obtaining his Australian Scout Medallion and the Queen’s Scout Award, both highly revered scouting achievements, and uses his experience to help others. Over the past 18 months James has been responsible for the running of the second Korumburra Scout Troop, assisting eight young scouts to prepare for the 22nd Australian Jamboree to be held this month in NSW. Without James, this troop would have folded through lack of leaders. He is also an active member of the Korumburra Apex Club and can be counted on to help out when required - setting up for Apex events, cooking barbecues or collecting and delivering ﬁrewood for elderly people. His most remarkable quality is his

willingness to give and desire nothing in return, and his pending enlistment into the Australian Army conﬁrms his commitment to community service. At just 21, James is a credit to himself, his family and most importantly, his community.

James Abbott: the Korumburra resident has been nominated as the Young Citizen of the Year.

PAGE 22 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Sustaining earth for kids WHEN you’re on a good thing, stick to it, which is what the organisers of Earth Kids will be doing later this month.

The second Earth Kids event will be held in Koonwarra on Sunday, January 24, from 9am to 3pm, appropriately during the school holidays. “Earth Kids will highlight practical ways to sustainably manage the needs of babies and children of all ages through their growing years,” said Melanie Cole, of The Outside Bit nursery, which is the major sponsor and organiser. The event includes products, ranging from new products, services, to pre-loved items, hand-made goodies and produce. There’ll be fun activities, interactive talks and presentations for the children and carers by adults who practice sustainability. Koonwarra businesses will demonstrate sustainable living, for example by using paper bags, not plastic, and presenting educational classes. The Koonwarra Business Group will be collaborating with the Koonwarra Sustainable Communities Centre (KSCC) on the event. Held in the Koonwarra Hall the event ﬂows through the township. Entry is $2 for adults. Kids under 18 are free. A key attraction is Aunty Rozzy (Ros Tesoriero), who is leading a vegie revolution encouraging children to eat vegetables, learn and be active. She will perform together with the stars of her engaging Aunty Rozzy books and CD series.

Mascots Perry the Parrot and Harriette the Rabbit will entertain visitors with the inspiring music from Nanna’s Carrots and The Incredible Edible Alphabet. CFA staff will be available to answer any questions with all the new changes and help residents and visitors stay safe through this high ﬁre danger season. Koonwarra’s rice mulch supplier will be hosting a Needle in the Haystack activity with pink rice mulch, art and craft activities. The rafﬂe is supported by local businesses and stall-holders. First prize is a generous hamper provided by Koonwarra businesses. Second prize is a portrait sitting and 11 x 14 inch print by Brenner Liana Photography (valued at $300). Third prize is two bales of rice mulch by Aussie Rice Mulch with select Eco-organic products. Winners will be drawn and announced at 2.45pm at the event. Because of the success of last year’s event, organisers believe this year’s event will be even more popular, especially since Gippsland and surrounds are busy holiday destinations with families during summer. Because Earth Kids is about sustainability, people are asked to bring their own bags or boxes for their purchases. “There’s still time for community organisations and groups as well as individuals, wanting to promote their services or sell pre-loved babies’ and children’s equipment, clothing, toys and books, to book a stall in the Koonwarra Hall or at the Memorial Park,” Melanie said. For all inquiries, call Melanie on 0419 353 494.

Above: Earthly fun: Ella Benary-Belfer and her brother Jessy were at last year’s Earth Kids, on September 27, with avid Making Poverty History campaigner Johanna Haasjes, of Koonwarra.

Earth kids event: At last July’s event, children delighted in playing games, making origami, drawing masterpieces, building, planting vegie seedlings. (Picture: Bree Kelly).

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 23

Making holiday fun SCHOOL aged children are being treated to a holiday program at Venus Bay Community Centre. The program was proving popular for primary school aged children and also offers activities for teens. It began on January 4 and continues until January 22. Community centre manager Alyson Skinner said the program was for local

residents and holiday makers. Highlights of the program are likely to be trips to Inverloch on Thursday and Friday for surﬁng lessons. In the third week of the program teens will have the opportunity to use stencils to decorate the skate rink with Melbourne artist Vincent Hartcup. The program is funded by a Department of Health and Ageing healthy active Australia grant.

Making sushi: Seb, Lisa Hawkins (Venus Bay) and Hannah add rice to their seaweed paper.

Above: Mosaic work: Inverloch artist Fiona Kennedy with Venus Bay holiday makers Meg, Isabella, Samantha and Isabella.

Craft and art: Jessica (Koonwarra) with Isabella and Bella who are staying in Venus Bay.

Hear the beat: Miles (staying in Venus Bay) and Kit (Venus Bay) get some rhythm.

War Memorial Arts Centre, Foster Xv k

Lyrebird Arts Council proudly presents

Mossvale Park

Saturday, January 23, 2010 3pm - 9pm The beautiful outdoor setting of Mossvale Park will come alive this Australia Day long weekend with music from three corners of the world: Africa, Australia and the USA.

Vieux Farka Toure (Africa), Charlie Parr (USA), Mia Dyson, Lisa Miller, Collard Greens & Gravy Adults $55, Conc. $50, Family $150, Under 14 free Tickets: moshtix.com, Bair Music, Leongatha / Gecko Studio Gallery, Fish Creek / Main St. Revelations, Foster Enquiries: 5664 9239 www.lyrebirdartscouncil.com.au BHS2553

MARKET DAY In conjunction with Farmers Market

SATURDAY 16 JAN: 8am~3pm

FAMILY FUNDAY Amusement rides, jumping castle, kids entertainment

SUNDAY 17 JAN: 10am~3pm ADULTS $2 ADMISSION, KIDS FREE FREE TASTINGS ~ LIVE MUSIC ~ COOKING DEMOS 2

Information & stalls list: www.tastesofpromcountry.com.au

PAGE 24 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Panto in parks ENTERTAINMENT for the people is coming to a park near you. The Meeniyan Amateur Dramatics Society (MADS) is putting on a series of panto-games at Foster’s Pearl Park, Meeniyan’s Tandera Park as well as parks at Fish Creek and Toora during Saturday and Sunday of the Australia Day Weekend. On Saturday, January 23, the pantogames will be held at 10.30am (Meeniyan) and 4pm (Fish Creek). On Sunday, January 24, they will be held at 10.30am (Foster) and 4pm (Toora) – all weather permitting. The panto-games concept comprises a narrated fairy tale in which the public takes part in playing any of the characters and/or watch the fun as the players move through the actions and challenge games of the story as it unfolds.

Lasting about 90 minutes, the story will be loosely based on Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Other characters will be thrown in for fun. More than one member of the public can be playing any part. The characters are the king, wicked queen, magic mirror, snow white, huntsman, seven (or more) dwarfs, bridge troll, wishing well maiden, golden goose (or geese), the good fairy, magician, princes and the good queen. “Theatre group members will be present to assist players with their roles and actions and to ensure that safe fun is had by all,” MADS president Pat Hendry said. There will be a gold coin collection with donations going towards a local worthy cause at each venue. For further information telephone Pat on 5681 2229.

Panto-game character: The Wicked Queen is one of many characters in the panto-games organised by MADS at several local parks.

Right up Rosser alley THE Celia Rosser Gallery and Banksia Café in Fish Creek has scored a major coup for its ConciArto season opener on Friday night, January 15. It will present the internationally renowned The Tinalley String Quartet, winners of the 2007 Banff International String Quartet Competition and the 2005 Australian Chamber Music Competition. “We are really looking forward to celebrating the start of a new decade by having the Tin Alley Quartet at the gallery,” Andrew Rosser said. This will be the 10th ConciArto at the gallery. The concerts have proved highly popular and usually are sell-out events. Melbourne-grown Tinalley has rapidly achieved recognition as one in the most exciting young quartets, not only at home of Australia but also on the world chamber music stage, regularly performing in Amsterdam, Vienna, Paris and Berlin. They will again tour Europe in March. The quartet is composed of Kristian Winther (violin), Lerida Delbridge (violin), Justin Williams (viola), and Michelle Wood (cello). The name of the group is taken from a laneway at the University of Melbourne, the place where the ensemble ﬁrst got its start in 2003. Tickets are $55, which includes food and wine and a chance of winning one of three door prizes. Arrive at 7pm for 8pm start. For inquiries, call Andrew on 5683 2628.

Tin Alley: quartet consisting of Kristian Winther (violin), Lerida Delbridge (violin), Justin Williams (viola), and Michelle Wood (cello) will play at Celia Rosser Gallery on Friday night. (Picture: David White Photography).

Two up

FISH Creek will again experience dual exhibition openings on Sunday, January 17.

Ride the Wild Goat Workshop and Gallery will open at 1pm with a bookmark exhibition by local artists and writers. Called Making a Mark, it consists of wooden bookmarks, made of thin slices of Blackwood and mountain ash prepared by gallery owner and woodworker Andrew McPherson. The bookmarks have been decorated by a number of local artists. They are for sale at $20 each, participating local bookshops are Fish Tales in Fish Creek and Foster’s Little Bookshop. Gecko Studio Gallery will open at 2pm with an exhibition by Catherine Wheeler, called Primordium. The exhibition will run until February 13.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 25

WALK to any Leongatha school from this 1.5 acre property for sale through Stockdale & Leggo, Leongatha. Read about it on page 29.

PAGE 26 - â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE STARâ&#x20AC;?, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Auctions in boom times I

NVERLOCH could be experiencing the hottest property market in 25 years.

LJHooker Inverloch director Scott Hughes said itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reaching the point where they have run out of properties to sell. Holiday house buyers, a rental shortage and cashed up retirees from Melbourne are driving the good times. Mr Hughes said he canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see the market slowing down. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had plenty of incidents where things have only just hit the market and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re selling, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very strong,â&#x20AC;? he said. The agency has two exciting auctions scheduled for Saturday, January 30, which are likely to do well. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already been good interest in both of them and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very conďŹ dent they will be sold,â&#x20AC;? Mr Hughes said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good enough offer on the table prior to the auction they will be sold.â&#x20AC;? Fourty-eight Ripple Drive, Inverloch will be auctioned at 11am on site on that day. Designer Iain Milne was given a brief to design a quality beach residence to maximise light and create indoor and outdoor living. This relaxed home achieves this whilst maintaining the privacy of the individual. With simplicity the essence, this unique four bedroom residence provides self contained, separated living spaces which ďŹ&#x201A;ow together naturally, offering a relaxing and inviting ambience as well as being extremely practical. Also featuring vaulted ceilings, large galley-style kitchen, two bathrooms, an alfresco dining deck under a shady canopy and fabulous use of glass and open plan living to create amazing light and space. This home is comfortable in all seasons, with decks and courtyards designed to maximise the best of all the elements together with an abundance of natural light and airďŹ&#x201A;ow. Within a few minutesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; walk to Inverlochâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s patrolled surf beach, this dual level, low maintenance home is ideal as a luxury holiday residence, a peaceful retire-

ment or a seaside escape to seclusion and privacy. At 1pm on site on January 30, 16B Sandymount Avenue, Inverloch will be auctioned. Perfectly positioned, this spacious two bedroom townhouse will be on every buyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list to inspect. It features a light-ďŹ lled open plan living/dining area, bright and sunny kitchen with slate ďŹ&#x201A;ooring. The large main bedroom, with semiensuite and bay windows, looks out over a shady verandah and balcony area through to the low maintenance gardens. A north facing outdoor entertaining deck is great for summer living, with its shaded canopy of foliage. This townhouse is a rare offering so close to the main street of Inverloch, and only moments to the shopping village, medical facilities and public transport. It offers a lifestyle of comfort and convenience like no other. For more information on either of these properties call Scott Hughes at LJ Hooker on 5674 2888 or 0488 748 888.

16B Sandymount Avenue, Inverloch

48 Ripple Drive, Inverloch

Auctions

With simplicity the essence, this unique 4 br residence provides self contained living, offering a relaxing and inviting ambience as well as being extremely practical. Also featuring vaulted ceilings, lge galley style kitchen, 2 bathrooms, an alfresco dining and o/p living to create amazing light and space. This home is comfortable setting the best of all the elements together with an abundance of natural OLJKW DQG DLUÂˇRZ :LWKLQ D IHZ PLQXWHV ZDON to Inverlochâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s patrolled surf beach, this dual level, low maintenance home offers peaceful retirement or a seaside escape to seclusion and privacy.

Auction Sat. January 30, 2010 at 11am on site

48 Ripple Drive Contact Scott Hughes 0488 748 888 inverloch@ljh.com.au

LJ Hooker Inverloch 5674 2888

Inverloch Secure your future Perfectly positioned, this spacious two bedroom townhouse will be on every buyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s OLVW WR LQVSHFW )HDWXULQJ OLJKW ÂśOOHG RSHQ SODQ living/dining area, bright and sunny kitchen ZLWK VODWH ÂˇRRULQJ QRUWK IDFLQJ RXWGRRU HQtertaining deck great for summer living with its shaded canopy of foliage, large main bedroom with semi-ensuite and bay windows looking out over a shady verandah and balcony area through to the low maintenance gardens. A rare offering so close to the main street of Inverloch, and only moments to the shopping village, medical facilities and public transport. Offering a lifestyle of comfort and convenience like no other.

Auction Sat. January 30, 2010 at 1pm on site 16B Sandymount Avenue Contact Scott Hughes 0488 748 888 inverloch@ljh.com.au

LJ Hooker Inverloch 5674 2888 KD1811

Inverloch Relaxing and Inviting Ambience

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 27

Near new ’Gatha marvel W

ITH so many extras, you couldn’t build this home for the price. This immaculate 12 month young home is located in one of Leongatha’s choice new locations. Owned by a local couple, three of the oversized double bedrooms and the main bathroom have never been used. You would be moving into a brand new home, where all the work is done. This modern home oozes class, with clean lines and neutral tones throughout. There’s a great sense of light and space. Entry to the home features merbau timber decking, which ties in the tinted timber windows, and extra large solid wood feature door. The kitchen is all style. Stainless steel appliances including a built-in microwave to stay, CaesarStone quartz benchtops, glass splashback, high gloss cupboards, water provision to fridge space and insinkerator are here. As if that wasn’t enough, the home features a butler’s pantry with laminate benchtop, drawers and oodles of storage space. Entry is straight from the garage, mak-

ing unloading groceries a breeze. The master bedroom is located near the formal living/theatre room, away from the other bedrooms and family area, creating a heavenly parents’ retreat. The en suite is state of the art, featuring ‘wall to wall’ shower with double shower heads, large vanity with two mirrors and of course, double sinks. French shutters featured in the master bedroom flow through into the en suite. Every last detail has been thought of, right down to the stylish Warwick fabric curtains and blinds, luxurious polished porcelain tiles, high quality real timber floating floor, plush carpets, nine foot ceilings, solar hot water, and natural gas, ducted heating and air-conditioning throughout. Finally, there’s an extra large double garage, which can comfortably fit two 4WDs, a roller door at the rear of the garage through to the back yard, large lockup shed and new garden with concrete curb edging. Private, tall Colorbond fences surround this large 1100 square metre property. Call SEJ Leongatha to arrange an inspection today.

At a glance Location: 9 Eleanor Court, Leongatha. Price: $435,000. Sole agent: SEJ, Leongatha. Contact: 5662 4033, Lyle Miller 0408 515 665 or Barry Redmond 0418 515 666.

Prom Country N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

Selling Properties LEONGATHA ~ executive style

FISH CREEK ~ 4 acres in town

TOORA ~ prime ofﬁce freehold

DUMBALK ~ retro opportunity

Elegant and spacious executive living in central Leongatha. 3 double bedrooms, huge formal lounge & dining rooms, lovely kitchen with meals/ family area, rumpus, double carport, secure high fence and huge rear yard. Quality period ﬁxtures.

Private, country residence in the village of Fish Creek. 24sq, low maintenance, 4 bedroom plus study, immaculate open plan home. Large shed, rail trail access, wetland ponds, habitat for platypus, koalas and bird life. Stunning natural environment.

Enjoying prominent street presence in Toora’s main street, this fully renovated office comprises showroom/reception, 4 offices, storeroom, kitchen, and bathroom. 512sqm flat block with lock-up steel shed and rear access. Outstanding value!

Set in a quiet street with rear rural views you’ll ﬁnd this classic 1950’s, 3 bedroom home surrounded by colourful plantings. Big rooms incl. farm-size kitchen, decorative cornices, original ﬁnishes & 10ft ceilings. A retro lovers dream!

OPEN TO INSPECT Sunday, 12-12.30pm Address 26 Ogilvy Street, Leongatha $475,000 - $525,000

INSPECT BY APPOINTMENT Address 40 Falls Road, Fish Creek $430,000 - $460,000

INSPECT BY APPOINTMENT Address 49 Stanley Street, Toora $190,000 - $210,000 (excl. GST)

INSPECT BY APPOINTMENT Address 19 Miller Street, Dumbalk $165,000 - $179,500

24/7

allen bartlett 0417 274 624

N AY PE D O SUN IS TH

65 Whitelaw Street, t, Me Meeniyan een eniy iy yan an $325,000 - $350,000

PORT ALBERT ~ sea change

KORUMBURRA STH~ 23 acres

Freehold and residence combination from this c1856 restored original. Existing café, gallery with B&B options. Artisans’ retreat - or simply a fresh sea change. Rear ROW access, long rear yard, a very unusual and thought-provoking opportunity.

Stunning views toward Wilsons Prom & the coast, 3 dwellings including substantial main residence with “great hall”, RAL home with elevated views, and 2 room bungalow. Ideal lifestyle property with income potential: plentiful water, orchards, privacy...

Residence and freehold combination from this beautiful historic building. Six large rooms, kitchen, laundry. Rear ROW access. Ideal for your own enterprise, or investment opportunity. Consider restaurant, accommodation, antiques, and more!

INSPECT BY APPOINTMENT Address 71 Tarraville Road, Port Albert $550,000 - $600,000

OPEN TO INSPECT Sunday, 1-1.30pm 275 Korumburra South Road, Korumburra South $580,000 - $640,000

INSPECT BY APPOINTMENT Address 60 Ridgway, Mirboo North $310,000 - $340,000

93 Whitelaw St, Meeniyan

kaz hughes 0417 516 998

MIRBOO NORTH ~ buy the bank

promcountryrealestate.com.au

VIEWS FROM PROPERTY Y

mb balk k 21 Miller Street, Dumb Dumbalk $52,500 - $59,500

5664 0224

lisa williams 0438 133 385

PAGE 28 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

“Koonwarra Views” – 186 acres

OCATED at Koonwarra, about 11kms from Leongatha and only 6kms to the VLE saleyards, this well appointed dairy farm boasts an excellent all round set up. It comprises a gently undulating 186 acres with quality pastures. There’s a 10 swingover dairy with Westfalia cups and Milk-aware plate cooler, two Frigrite vats of 1600lt and 2380lt, manual feed system, near new hot water service,

and 32 tonne silo. Shedding consists of two large machinery sheds, and two additional hay sheds. Paddocks are accessed off central laneways and have a majority of new fencing and shelter belts. A three bedroom well appointed brick home features master with full en suite and large robes, bedroom two with walk-in robe, and bedroom three with built-in robes. A timber kitchen has electric hotplates, wall oven and range hood,

At a glance Location: 345 Old Koonwarra-Meeniyan Road, Koonwarra. Price: $1,350,000. Agent: Alex Scott & Staff, Leongatha. Contact: 5662 0922.

walk-in pantry and wall mounted dishwasher for easy loading/ unloading. The open plan living includes lounge, family room and a formal dining room, wood ﬁre and a reverse cycle split system air conditioner. This farm offers outstanding value, and has excellent layout and topography. The owners will conﬁrm that the property is a pleasure to operate. Inspection is a must - and strictly by appointment.

Planning permits in place

RE you looking for a small acreage to build your dream home? These lifestyle blocks already have a planning permit in place. 1) About two acres, this block is situated at 2310 Grandridge Road, Hallston. It features excellent views, bitumen road frontage, and is about 14.5 kms out of Leongatha. Priced at $110,000. 2) Located at Welshpool, this lifestyle block of approximately 2.96 acres features power to the boundary, established native

trees, and a sealed road frontage. On the South Gippsland Highway, Welshpool it is priced at $145,000. 3) And ﬁnally this about two acre rural block is situated at 805 KoonwarraInverloch Road, Leongatha South. This exceptional block is only a two minute walk to Leongatha’s 18 hole golf course and just a 10 minute drive to Inverloch or Leongatha. It features rural views, a building permit, and power, and is priced at $225,000 Contact Alex Scott & Staff, Leongatha on 5662 0922 for further details on any of these properties.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 29

Privately tucked away W

HERE else can you ﬁnd a big home on 1.5 acres and be able to walk to all schools? Three Yeaman Court has a lot to offer the young family, including a quality brick home with three large bedrooms, three living areas inside, plus a double garage converted into a games room. The bathroom has a spa and is designed as a semi en suite.

At a glance Location: 3 Yeaman Court, Leongatha. Price: $475,000. Agent: Stockdale and Leggo, Leongatha. Contact: 5662 5800.

There’s also a separate shower room. Outside is an entertainer’s paradise with a huge covered and paved patio featuring spa and adjacent pool. A lock-up shed provides handy storage and for the sport fanatic, a set of goal posts and a proper cricket net will provide hours of entertainment. This is a sizeable home with room both inside and out; your inspection is invited.

PAGE 30 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Perfect choice for Prom Country A

LLEN and Kaz at Prom Country First National Real Estate are convinced they have made yet another good decision in a whirlwind list of them since opening their Meeniyan real estate business.

Lisa Williams, who joined the Prom Country team as marketing coordinator in April 2009, has stepped into a full time sales position at Prom Country. “Our buyers and vendors are really going to beneﬁt from the addition of Lisa to our sales team. From the start, Lisa has demonstrated an uncanny similarity to the way we like to do business, and so she was our obvious choice,” Kaz said. “We are very pleased that she has agreed to step out from behind the Apple Mac, and play a prominent role in sales. “Lisa has always been impressive in her dealings with our clients, and her enthusiasm as an “in-house” sales person, helping buyers when Allen and I have been away from the ofﬁce, has already resulted in sales being made”. Lisa until recently owned and operated her own successful graphic design business in Leongatha. She joined Prom Country initially as a part time interest.

“They needed a part time marketing co-ordinator, and I needed a change. The bonus was that it was a real estate business. I love real estate, like so many people do,” Lisa said. The part time marketing role quickly developed to full-time, due to Prom Country’s success, and now with her move into sales, Lisa’s career change is complete. Her creative juices will still be put to work though, adding her own photographic ﬂair to the well established reputations of Allen and Kaz. When asked what special ingredients she will bring to her new role, Lisa said that “listening carefully to people’s needs, both as buyers and sellers” is certainly an important one. “I get a kick out of matching the right buyer to the right property, and the only way to do that effectively is to listen to what they want. That can also be about having the patience to interpret what they want, because a lot of buyers, particularly tree changers, don’t always have that worked out when they walk into our ofﬁce on a Sunday afternoon,” she said. “With my tourism knowledge and my own tree-changer experiences, I feel that I can really help them to become familiar with the area, and feel good about their move.” It’s a big step, making such a ca-

reer change. Is she nervous? “Not at all. I’ve had plenty of time to observe how Allen and Kaz operate. I’m impressed with their integrity, which isn’t always something you would associate with ‘real estate’,” Lisa said. “The quality of training Kaz and Allen have been giving me and their readiness to listen to new ideas and ways, makes me very conﬁdent that this year is going to be a lot of fun and hard work. “I’m also very comfortable with the fact that at Prom Country we operate as a real team: all our vendors and buyers can relax knowing that they can talk to any one of us - that makes it a great working environment.” Lisa is an active committee member of Prom Country Regional Tourism, and also the Southern Business Women’s Association. She has also been a long term member of her local Landcare group. Passionate about raising South Gippsland’s tourism proﬁle, sustainable living, and an animal lover, Lisa lives at Turton’s Creek with her partner Scott, and Rhonda, a blue heeler.

The Prom Country team: back Kaz Hughes and Allen Bartlett; front Glenys Foster and Lisa Williams.

A lot of home for your money U

PON arrival at this appealing property three things will become apparent.

At a glance Location: 11 Inches Road, Korumburra. Price: $445,000. Agent: Stockdale & Leggo, Korumburra. Contact: John O’Connor 0416 193 990.

Firstly what a lot of home there is for the money, secondly what an amazing location on the edge of Korumburra with stunning views of the beautiful hills, and thirdly experience the good fortune of finding 1.14 acres in a park-like setting of beautiful lawns and scattered established trees. The exterior of the home is difficult to photograph. Let us assure you it’s a fine looking home. The home comprises three to four bedrooms, plus a study, en suite to main bedroom, a sparkling large bathroom with spa, laminated kitchen with dishwasher.

The family/dining room is north facing and most appealing, with great windows from which to enjoy the beautiful views. This room has an open ﬁre and the convenience of a split system air conditioner. The home has a second living area, which is big enough for a pool table, and heated by a cozy wood heater. The family room opens out onto a covered outdoor living area, just the place to sit back and appreciate this wonderful setting. This is not a drive by property, as there is much to appreciate here. The agents would be pleased to make an appointment for you, please call at your earliest convenience. Internet ID 198314.

By Karen Haw from The Town Centre Nursery, Mirboo North

SUMMER is here and most of us do not want to spend all our spare time watering the garden to ensure colour over the warmer months.

Salvias are tough, dependable plants that are easy to grow and propagate, extremely hardy, grow very quickly, making them ideal perennial plants to include in garden beds. They thrive with hot and dry conditions. Most gardeners and cooks know and love the delicious herb sage (Salvia officinalis), cosy partner of parsley, rosemary and thyme. But common garden sage is but one member of a genus of at least 900 species of annuals and herbaceous and shrubby perennials, many of which have equal claims to fame. Not only that, but with such a huge number of different salvias, this group has become a plant collector’s paradise, but with so many varieties (and not to mention the name variation) plus new cultivars that appear on the market every year, it will take a very enthusiastic collector to collect them all. Sage (salvias) are related to the mint family, but unlike mints, most do not grow well in moist soil. They vary in size, texture and shape from groundcover plants, to compact shrubs to quite huge wild bushes and come from a wide variety of habitats, meaning that there is one to suit almost any place in the garden. There are flower colours in almost every hue, including black and brown. Salvias have some of the most brilliant blues of all flowers, some of the most vibrant reds, and some of the prettiest pinks, as well as many other colours in between. Many have scented leaves – pineapple sage (S. elegans) and fruity sage (S. dorisiana) are delicious in drinks, but not all salvias are attractively scented: clary sage (S. sclarea) has been used to flavour wines and as a potent substitute for hops, but this is rather surprising because its other common name, ‘Hot Housemaid’ describes its pungency all too well. With garden salvias, pruning is the key to maintaining their vigour and promoting an attractive, compact habit. Unless collecting seed, remove spent flower spikes to stimulate a second and even third flush of blooms. When pruning woody-stemmed varieties, cut plants back hard but never prune to hardwood. Pruning is generally done after flowering, but this can be difficult when some varieties flower almost continuously. In this case, watch for that new growth, and prune then. Salvias are water-wise plants and have very few pests to worry about – grasshoppers may have a nibble: a few types do suffer from the hibiscus beetle, snails can be a problem with new growth, but on the whole there is very little to worry about. They do attract many birds which perhaps clean up pests, and having birds in the garden is a wonderful bonus. Another star in the garden (because of its superb perfume) at this time of year is the gardenia. The gardenia’s fragrant flowers are contrasted by the thick, shiny dark green leaves. They can be pruned on a tall trunk into topiary, kept as a bonsai, pruned as a normal shrub or grown as a tub specimen. Gardenias came initially from a warm climate, so they don’t like being freezing cold, and they do not like it too hot. Gardenias need a protected position in the garden with some morning sun. An east-facing location is ideal, where the plant can be sheltered from the very hot afternoon sun. Gardenia plants will grow quite successfully in a large pot filled with acid potting mix. The fragrant and beautiful creamy white flowers occur from late spring to late autumn and will bloom over the Christmas period. Flowers can be picked to use as a buttonhole or posy. Gardenias will persist in a wide range of conditions, but if they’re not perfectly content, they will tend to look quite awful. To keep them looking good they require regular feeding through summer and autumn with azalea and camellia food. One of the most asked questions about gardenias is the yellowing of older leaves in late winter and spring. This is usually a sign that the plant is moving its magnesium to the new growth. In the beginning of spring, feeding with Epsom salts (magnesium sulphate) will usually solve this problem. To avoid getting other nutrients out of balance, only apply Epsom salts no more than once a year. Gardenia plants that are healthy will grow vigorously and are less likely to be affected by fungus problems. When planted in an ideal position, kept mulched and well fertilised regularly, most gardenias will stay robust. Always keep a close examination of the plants and deal with problems as soon as they materialise.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 31

By Bert van Bedaf LOVE continues to bloom in the garden for June Marshman and there is no ﬂower better suited to romance than the brightly coloured and fragrant rose. A well-known water-colour artist June, now 81, looks after the rose garden that was started by her husband Albert more than 25 years ago, when the family moved into Leongatha from a dairy farm. Albert died at Leongatha Hospital on September 6, 2008, aged 90, but his spirit lives among the 200-odd plants that June lovingly maintains and prunes. “He used to be in the garden and I would paint. But now I’m doing the lot,” June said. “He loved his roses. He had lots of books on it and had pruning lessons. It still is Albert’s garden and when I’m in the garden I feel close to him. I just love it. We had a great life.” The sprawling weeping cherry was planted shortly after they settled in and is now a large tree in full glory. “If you plant something in Leongatha, it grows twice as big as anywhere else,” June said. In Albert’s garden June grows anything from vegetables to exotic roses. “We started buying roses for the looks, but later for the perfume (fragrance),” June said. The roses are spectacular, with exotic names, including Blue Moon, Chicago Peas, Monica, Tequila Sunrise (yellow with a red tinge on the side), Midas Touch and Our Vanilla and Brandy. June said she’d put the Brandy roses on her mother’s grave. “She’d like that,” she said. There are different types of vegetables, oranges, lemons, apricots, strawberries and much more, which June generously offers to relatives, friends and neighbours. Looking after Albert’s garden, June gets up early and takes it an hour at a time, with rests in between. But she will spend several hours gardening most days. “I take a rest and I don’t go out in the heat,” June said. “I get a lot of help from my neighbours.” One of those neighbours is Roslyn Notman, who lives opposite on the other side of the street. Noticing her in her own front garden, June called her over. “This is a really beautiful garden,” Roslyn said. “I come over when she needs a hand. I like

Above: Albert’s garden: June Marshman gets help from neighbour Roslyn Notman tending the large rose garden that her late husband Albert started 25 years ago. Happy marriage: Albert and June were happily married for nearly 60 years, coming off a dairy farm and retiring in Leongatha. Albert died 14 months ago, but his spirit lives on. roses myself, even if they’re prickly.” Roslyn is by no means the only neighbour “helping out” and when the gardening gets tough, there’s always someone to lend a hand. June said that vegetables needed watering, but roses did not. “They’ve had no hand water in three-and-ahalf years. They get moisture from the ground or when it rains. I didn’t lose one (rose) in the heat.” Pruning and mulching are her secrets. “I mulch them with sugar cane mulch and they grow beautifully. Mulching saves weeding. I used to put paper under it (plants) but that made it untidy. They blew on the ground,” June said. “Pruning is the secret. June is the best time. But you can leave it to July. It’s amazing how quickly they grow back.” It is touching to realise that when in the garden June feels in the presence of Albert, whom she already knew when 17. “We came here 25 years ago. Albert and I came off the dairy farm. Farming suited

him. When he came from the war, there were a lot of jobs to be done. He did a lot of good work. He grew potatoes for the hospital,” June remembered. Albert was one of six brothers and a sister. He came home from World War II after six years, having served in New Guinea, Bougainville, the Solomon Islands and Darwin. He served in the infantry and had some horrendous experiences. “We met the night he was discharged at a social church dance. I was 17 at the time and Albert was 26. We had to wait (for marriage) till I grew up,” June said. They married in 1949 and had four daughters, Annette, Barbara, Susan and Janine, who lives in Queensland, and many grandchildren. “He was proud of his daughters,” June said. “They’re now looking after me.” They were six months from being married for 60 years when Albert died. But his legacy is secure in June’s hands. Albert’s spirit lives on in one of the ﬁnest rose gardens in Leongatha.

PAGE 32 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 33

JUDD Stanley Holt was born on January 6 at the Leongatha Memorial Hospital. He is the second child but ﬁrst son for Prue and Matt of Leongatha. A little brother for Laila to cuddle.

ISLA Ann Haw was born on December 27 at the Leongatha Memorial Hospital. She is the ﬁrst child for Donald and Melissa of Mirboo North. THOMAS Andrew Gromotka was born on December 28 at the Leongatha Memorial Hospital. He is the ﬁrst son for Andrew and Lucy of Leongatha and a little brother for Amelia.

Left: BRYCE Alan Quigley was born on December 30 at the Leongatha Memorial Hospital. He is the ﬁrst boy for Chris and Jess of Leongatha and a little brother for Leah.

NELLY Jane Fox was born at the Leongatha Memorial Hospital on December 26. Nelly is another daughter for proud parents Steven and Megan of Inverloch and a younger sister for Lily 7, Chloe 5 and Oscar 2.

QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8204

Church Times ARIES - March 21 - April 20

You may have to go out on a limb for someone, perhaps speaking up for a current unpopular person. Delays are possible now - affecting plans for better and for worse. TAURUS - April 21 - May 22

Your greatest enjoyment now is with small intimate groups. Be more adventurous in your work methods and more conservative in your romantic approach. Important caution - read documents carefully. GEMINI - May 23 - June 21

Some of the best hours this week are spent outside the home. Friends seem a little pessimistic and you turn into the good humour man/ woman. The week is off to a great start romantically. CANCER - June 22 - July 22

Dealings with teachers and in-laws are favoured. There could be tensions in the workplace this week. Watch a leanings toward extravagance later in the week. A surprise expense may crop up on the weekend. LEO - July 23 - August 22

Spend more time with contemporaries this week. It’s a superb time for sharing ideas and comparing goals. When making a commitment, be really sure that you can stick to it. VIRGO - August 23 - September 22

Important people are rooting for you to succeed, but you are still encountering obstacles. Keep your perspective and don’t avoid issues. Romance is very much on the upswing. LIBRA - September 23 - October 22

This is a good week for business. You are utterly persuasive. A former friend or suitor may try to contact you on the weekend. Household jobs could take more time, ingenuity and money than expected. SCORPIO - October 23 - November 21

Expect to do a good deal of hosting through the week. Mostly it’s enjoyable, but don’t feel obliged to pick up all the tabs. Catch up on correspondence, before you start to feel embarrassed. SAGITTARIUS - November 22 - December 22

Arrange your schedule with more care than usual and leave some breathing space. Appointments can take longer and new obligations could crop up. Important agreements are ﬁnally ready for ﬁnal touches. CAPRICORN - December 23 - January 20

The focus is on education and romance, both demanding time, both offer rewards. A family member may be competing for your attention. Children need extra time on the weekend. AQUARIUS - January 21 - February 19

This is a good week for surprising old friends. Spontaneous calls and notes can make you feel great. There’s even the possibility of rekindling an old romance. PISCES - February 20 - March 20

The week may include a mixed bag of surprises. A friend may ask you to play private eye for him/her. Be warned - it may turn into a much heavier assignment than anticipated. BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK

A born leader, and an imaginative one and yet you resist change sometimes for its own sake. You can be lucky in ﬁnancial matters, but expert consultation is important. An acquaintanceship can develop into a beautiful romance.

ANGLICAN: Tuesday, January 12: 7pm St Andrew’s, Dumbalk / St David’s, Meeniyan Fellowship. Wednesday, January 13: 11am St Peter’s Mid-Week HC. Friday, January 15: 7.30pm St David’s, Meeniyan HC. Sunday, January 17: 8am St Peter’s HC; 10am St Peter’s Contemporary Worship with HC. ST MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Mirboo North. Phone 5668 1346. Holy Communion 8.30am: Worship and Sunday School 10am. ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Korumburra: Sunday 9.30am and Wednesday 11.30am. Poowong: Second and fourth Sundays, 11am. ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Wonthaggi. Sunday, 10.30am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Monday, 7.30pm: Holy Communion; Wednesday, 8.45am: Christian prayer & meditation, 10am: Holy Communion. CHURCH OF ASCENSION: Inverloch, Sunday, 9am: Holy Communion & Sunday School; Tuesday, 9am: Christian prayer & meditation; 10am: Holy Communion; Thursday 7.30pm: Holy Communion. 5th Sunday services, alternating at Wonthaggi & Inverloch, contact Rev Bruce Charles for details, 5672 3984. ASSEMBLIES OF GOD: Prom Coast Community Church Inc. - Foster Community House, Station Street, 10am: Sunday. Sunday School and Creche operates. Pastor Bill Watson 5686 2248. A.O.G. Inverloch - Cnr Bear and McIntosh Street, Inverloch. Sunday Service 10am; Imagine Christmas Day Service 9am. Contact: Jeff Robertson, 0418 125 832 or Imagine Burwood 9888 7466. Korumburra Southern Hills A.O.G. - 4 Mine Rd, 10am and 6pm: Sunday. Also Children’s Church and Creche. Contact: Pastor Vic Butera 5655 2478. Youth: Neville Stuart ph. 0407 343 219. Leongatha South Gippsland Liberty Fellowship - 17 Michael Place, Leongatha. Sunday services: 11 am and 7pm. All enquiries contact Pastor David Stegmann 5662 2785. Office: 5662 3100. Wonthaggi A.O.G. - Billson Street, 10am: Sunday. Contact: Pastor Barry Smith 5672 3984. CHRISTIAN REVIVAL CRUSADE: 40 Hughes Street, Leongatha. Sunday, Morning Service 10.30 am: Inspirational Service, 6.30pm: Children’s Church 10.30am: Home cells weekly; Kids Club Thursdays 4pm Guide Hall. For all enquiries contact 5664 5455. THE CHURCH AT ARCHIES CREEK: Meeting every Sunday at

Archies Creek. Morning Communion Service 11 am: Evening Holy Spirit Revival 6pm: Phone: Ps. Chris Chetland 5674 3867 or 5672 4660. SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST: Saturdays, Church service 10am., Leongatha Sabbath School - 11.30am. CATHOLIC: St Laurence’s Parish Leongatha: 5 pm Mass Saturday, 11am Mass Sunday. Tarwin Lower: In St Andrew’s Union Church, 5pm winter, 6pm summer Mass Saturday. Meeniyan: 9.30am Mass, 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays and 11am, 2nd and 4th Sundays. Mirboo North: 11am Mass, 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays and 9.30am Mass, 2nd and 4th Sundays. St. Joseph’s Parish Korumburra: 9.30am Sunday Mass. Loch: 5pm/6pm Daylight saving Sunday Mass. Wonthaggi: Saturday evening 6.30pm: Evening Mass; Sunday, 10.30am: Mass. Inverloch: Sunday 9 am: Mass. KORUMBURRA’S WOMEN’S AGLOW: First Monday every month at Korumburra Day Centre, Korumburra Hospital, Bridge St., Korumburra at 7.45pm. Inquiries phone 5657 2214. GIPPSLAND CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: Strongly family oriented church meets at the Senior Citizens Centre, Mirboo North, Sundays: 4-5.10pm Communion, 5.15-6pm Bible Studies for Adults, Youth and Children. Friday evenings: Home Fellowships 7.30pm; Youth Activities. Enquiries: 5668 2226 Bob Stevens. SALVATION ARMY LEONGATHA COMMUNITY CHURCH meets at 52 Anderson Street (South Gippsland Highway) - Sunday: Family Worship at 10am: Kid’s Club - Tuesday, 4 - 5pm; mainly music, Thursday 10am. All welcome. Please contact Captain Martyn and Heather Scrimshaw, ph. 5662 5122. SALVATION ARMY WONTHAGGI COMMUNITY CHURCH meets at 149 McKenzie Street every Sunday at 11am for Family Worship. Kids' Club - every Tuesday at 4 pm, Women's Group - Wednesday at 1.30pm, and Playgroup - Friday 9.30am. Evening Ladies' Fellowship - First Monday each month and Youth Groups held monthly. All welcome. Please contact Lt. Robyn and Max Lean. Ph. 5672 1228. PRESBYTERIAN: Weekly Worship Service 10am Sunday, corner Bent and Turner Streets, Leongatha. Phone Rev. Dr D. Clarnette 0409 236 981 or elder Col Rump 5662-2107. CHRISTIAN REFORMED

CHURCH: Reformed Church meeting at the corner of Peart and Brown Streets. Sunday family service at 10.30am. (10am daylight saving time), creche and Sunday School available. Teaching service at 7.30pm. Fortnightly youth activities. Home Bible Fellowship groups. Contact 5662 2762. Minister: Rev. Ron Nauta. UNITING CHURCH: Leongatha: Sunday, January 17, Combined 10am. Tarwin Lower: 10.30am. Mirboo North: 9.30am. Meeniyan: 10am. Wonthaggi: Sunday 9.30am, Family Service, all welcome. Inverloch: Sunday 11am: Korumburra: Sunday, 9.30am: Rev. Geoff Smith and Rev. Jim Foley, 5655 1997. BAPTIST CHURCH KORUMBURRA: 39 Mine Rd, Korumburra. Service and Sunday School 10.30am. Pastor Ian Wilkinson. Phone 5658 1366. BAPTIST CHURCH WONTHAGGI: Cnr McBride & Broome Crescent, Wonthaggi. Morning Service & Children’s Activities, Sunday 10am. Weekly activities see www.wonbaptist.org.au, Pastor Geoff Pegler 5672 4769. MEENIYAN CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: Sunday, 10am: Meeniyan Youth Club Hall. COMBINED CHURCHES WONTHAGGI / INVERLOCH: 4th Sunday each month at 7pm. SCOTS PIONEER CHURCH: Mardan South. Pleasant Sunday Afternoons on the last Sunday of each month at 2pm. See occasional ad in this paper for details. For enquiries phone 9853 6627. FISH CREEK UNION CHURCH: 1st & 3rd Sundays, 9am; 2nd & 4th Sundays, 7pm. Contacts: Fran Grimes 5683 2650, Sue Poletti 5663 6325.

1. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 14. 16. 19. 22. 24. 25. 26. 27.

ACROSS Woman (4) Spider (9) Post (4) Animal (4) Skin (4) Cultivate (4) Country (dated) (10) Entertainment (10) Drew (4) Land (4) Coin (4) Gun (4) Frailty (9) Language (4)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 12. 13. 15. 17. 18. 20. 21. 23.

DOWN Restrict (5) Bore (5) Garment (6) Zodiac sign (6) End (4) Mitigate (9) Continual (9) Musical instrument (4) Relative (4) Revenue (6) Light (6) Bury (5) Thick (5) Ireland (4)

CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8204 ACROSS 1. Him heap man! (4). 7, Let slip it’s no longer under control (3,2,4). 8. Start with the ball on the ball-point (4). 9. Soon a girl appears holding a hoop (4). 10. Catch and bring some back (4). 11. Wants to know when the shack inside was gutted (4). 14. An affection, or is it a fixation? (10). 16. Lag, with winter here (4,6). 19. Put to work, you say, on a farm (4). 22. For the man from the north of England, it’s business, in a way (4). 24. The others will be in the billiard room (4). 25. Charge the man (4). 26. Annoyed in varying degrees about 6,3). 27. The acme of fitness, we’re told, for a dog (4). DOWN 1. She had a terribly hard round in it (5). 2. Stop a foreigner, say (5). 3. It’s a basket the nun is weaving inside, dear (6). 4. The tooth can be straightened? That’s the spirit! (6). 5. Try to have killed (4). 6. In the flesh, but in a trance, somehow (9). 12. Barks when one won’t play (9). 13. Upset because I left to go by sea (4). 15. Earned as a servant, say (4). 17. Rang off in mid-speech, to infuriate one (6). 18. Having circulated, gets prosecuted (6). 20. When upset, I go in to complain (5). 21. Rescue about fifty from some greasy substance (5). 23. Prune to achieve balance (4).

PAGE 34 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 35

PAGE 36 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Mooving right in

THE former Watsons on Whitelaw in Meeniyan has ﬁnally been brought back to life, with Marty Thomas opening Moo’s - a relaxed café-style eatery in the town’s main street. Marty has moved from the Mornington Peninsula, seeing huge potential for growth in the region’s demand for quality food. He has a life-long connection with the region.

Is there something different in running a café in the city to running a place like this? I think people expect quality and value. I think the days of nouvelle cuisine where you get a pea on a plate are well and truly gone. Certainly in the local market they expect more value for money, because they are used to that, they don’t expect to walk out the door and have to go to McDonalds for a Big Mac to ﬁll them up. And to top it off, it is all about the service. Without slurring anyone, I think it is just a little bit lacking, the service and the friendly smile. So I’m hoping that will be one of my points of difference.

I have family in the area – Pilkingtons, Cooks and Stevens. I was brought up down here on summer days and weekends at Sandy Point. But I’ve always had an association with Melbourne and, most recently, nine years on the Peninsula at restaurants and vineyards. I moved down here two months ago and am living in Meeniyan. Why set up shop here? I saw the need for some good hospitality and some good everyday approachable food that I think the area is crying out for. It’s a beautiful building, beautiful town and good community. I saw a gap in the market to what Watson’s had been and you couldn’t go wrong with a building like this, it is gorgeous. We’re hoping to open up a little produce place next door. Make this a bit of a destination, as well as a place for passers-by. The foodie experience has exploded in Melbourne and other parts of Victo-

ria in recent years, is South Gippsland about to take off? I think it is going to take off pretty soon, with the likes of Archies Creek, the RACV Club and other restraunts opening up in the area. It’s only a matter of time before we have more accommodation. Basically people are looking for a lifestyle, they are moving from Melbourne so they have the same expectations that they had in Melbourne. Until recently they have not had that on offer. I think they want that, so we have to offer it to them. The tourist dollar is now intrinsically

linked to the food and coffee experience. The food culture in Melbourne is so ingrained that many people will not travel to an area that doesn’t offer high quality coffee and modern cuisine. Marty reckons the region is ready to cater for the cashedup travellers who are no longer satisﬁed with a barbecue and occasional trip into town for a counter tea. When I came here as a boy, you wouldn’t have thought about going out and having a latte, or coming back out for breakfast once you are in your holiday house, or going anywhere but the pub

for dinner. But people now have different expectations. The difference with the holiday people is that you don’t need to educate them, they are looking for something a little bit different like they get back home and enjoy on a daily basis. With the local community there is maybe a little bit of both, in educating them that there is something out there that is quite enjoyable but not too expensive, but is available to them on a regular basis. That will take time. Also, we live in a world down here of the most fabulous local produce available and it would be so silly not to tap into that.

You don’t seem the shy and retiring type. How important is that to running a successful venue. Very important. It’s about making people feel special and wanting to come back. They know when they come in with their friends they will feel special because they are recognised. It is all those little things that add up to good service. The staff are great here.

Why call it Moo’s? I’ve always been called Marty Moo and it also used to be a butcher. I think that was its ﬁrst use. There are still worn ﬂoor boards at the counter where the butcher used to stand.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 37

Sit back and enjoy By Bert van Bedaf THE Irish say Tipperary is a long way from London, but English holidaymakers Dan Bullock and Zoe Tunnadine realise Sydney is a lot further from the old Dart than Kilkenny. At a pinch, the distance from London to Tipperary is about 600km as the crow ﬂies across the Irish Sea and on land. The distance between London and Sydney is 17,000km. The Cornwall pair is cycling the great Aussie expanse on recumbents and loving every minute of it, if not all of its arduous kilometres that are still before them. They travelled from Sydney to Canberra (305km) and via Merimbula to East and South Gippsland. They dropped in at Leongatha last Monday on their way to Melbourne (655km). They set off last year, arriving in Sydney on November 18 and staying in a backpackers’ place they did not like. “The best way is not to meet backpackers,” Zoe said. “They get drunk all

the time.” The pair is now about six weeks into a six-month adventure, taking back roads and rail trails, and staying at campsites or farms. Dan, 38, and Zoe, 23, are members of the Willing Workers on Organic Farms organisation, which was established in the UK in 1971. WWOOF members do voluntary work on organic farms in return for free food and lodgings. They stayed at a farm in Stratford in the Shire of Wellington and with a farming family at Port Albert for New Year’s Eve. They are looking for more opportunities. They travelled along the rail trail from East Gippsland to Foster, “which was quite nice,” Zoe said, and stayed with a farmer family in Welshpool before entering Leongatha. “It is good to stay off the highways,” Dan said. “The rail trails are popular. We’ve met lots of people using rail trails.” They maintain blog-spots, the bearded peddler (Dan) and rolling armchair (Zoe), and keep an entertaining record of their travels. “You may have guessed, but the name Rolling Armchair refers to the fact that my

bike is more of a sofa than a bicycle,” Zoe wrote. Despite riding a sofa, it is not all plain peddling – with rewards. “Another bloody hard day (on the road) but all worth it in the end,” Zoe wrote. “We got off the highway onto the road to the Cape (Conran) and it was beautiful.” Dan found the going tough near Cooma. “A 200-metre climb over 30km doesn’t sound much, but with a head wind driving you backwards - Ouch!” Dan wrote. “Glad to reach the top, 1100m above sea level. From there on it was downhill all the way.” Both are long distance bike novices and are improving as they go along. They ride Optima recumbent touring bikes, made for trekking. Dutch-made, the Optima bikes are one of the most trusted touring recumbents, designed for energy efﬁcient riding. Their dual suspension copes easily with rough outback Australian roads and the side-bag pannier system keeps the rider’s luggage centred to maintain the suspension movement. A convenient mirror on the handlebars allows a good view of the road.

Keep on saving OVER the past four years South Gippsland Water has run a free water efficient shower head program. Thousands of shower heads have been given away to households to reduce water consumption across the South Gippsland Region. Steve Evans, Managing Director of South Gippsland Water, praised users for keeping water consumption down. “The corporation recognises the effort customers across the region put into water efficiency in their every day routine, swapping to a water efficient shower head and keeping showers to a reasonable length is the simplest way to considerably reduce water and power usage, ” Mr Evans said. This year South Gippsland Water is rewarding those customers by giving away a water

tank with the capacity of 100 litres to four lucky shower head program participants, going into a draw, for the months of January, February and March – that is 12 tanks in all. An average shower head runs at about 20 litres of water per minute. But by swapping to a water efficient model the water flow is cut to nine litres per minute, saving 55 litres of water on an average five-minute shower. The brand of shower head supplied by South Gippsland Water in the program is the Interbath InTouch Rainmaker. A premium full size shower head, it gives a great shower, featuring three separate spray selections. To be in the running to win a tank, customers must have either registered for a free shower head during 2009 or register before March 30,

Tanks a lot: South Gippsland Water is giving away 12 tanks to lucky shower head customers, going into a draw, shown by customer services ofﬁcer Carole Semmens. 2010. To register call the authority’s Customer Service Team on 1300 851 636 or visit the head

ofﬁce at 14–18 Pioneer Street, Foster. Winning customers will be notiﬁed by mail.

Visiting Leongatha: English visitors Dan Bullock and Zoe Tunnadine stopped over in Leongatha last week on their way to Melbourne.

PAGE 38 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Think local THERE are lots of good reasons for buying local produce.

All ﬁred up: Robert Barron with some of his works.

Jobs, ﬂavour, friendliness, carbon footprint reduction and pleasure are but a few. A number of South Gippsland producers have banded together to bring this feature to The Star, in the hope that it might become regular. Rod Faudel co-ordinates the monthly Koonwarra Farmers’ Market and is on the committee that runs the Foster Farmers’ Market. He loves both. Rod milks goats on his farm at Whitelaw, a tradition begun by his now 96-yearold mother who started milking goats 58 years ago when she developed an allergy to cow’s milk. Rod himself has been milking the creatures for 52 years and began making cheese 17 years ago. He supplied the wholesale market for ten years but it became too big, so now he concentrates on farmers’ markets. “That’s growing too!” His marinated goat cheese is keenly sought, with people coming from Melbourne seeking it out. Rod uses olive and canola oils with more than 15 herbs, but the combination is a secret. He said the Foster Farmers’ Market has been “extremely well received”, particularly by holiday makers, some of whom plan their forays into South Gippsland to tie in with either or both the Koonwarra and Foster markets. “Stallholders sell fresh, local produce straight out of the garden. There are more unusual products too, such as Aris Wolswinkel’s honey. He has eight to ten different honeys; it’s all fresh and pure, it’s fantastic.” The Koonwarra Farmers’ Market combines local and seasonal produce with a lovely atmosphere where market-goers can sit and enjoy refreshments and time with friends. Stallholders are friendly and happy to answer questions about their product. Denis Hawkins who designs and manufactures jewellery in Leongatha and Koonwarra, enjoys the personal relationships he has built up with customers in more than 20 years in the area. “That close contact is like an extended family,” he said. “That interaction overrides all, it makes the world go around.”

It also results in people giving him vegetables, not to mention hugs and kisses. Barry Charlton and his partner Cheryl, have outlets all over Victoria (including the Inverloch and Churchill Island farmers’ markets) for their Berrys Creek cheeses. They use rich jersey milk grown at Poowong North to create a number of handcraft farmhouse cheeses made without preservatives and animal rennet. The farm hosts the cheese factory, where Barry employs his 30 years’ experience as a cheese maker to create a number of varieties including blue cheeses which are to die for. Robert Barron is another local producer. His Gooseneck Pottery at Kardella, boasts one of the largest wood fired kilns in Australia. It’s fired twice a year over a period of four days at a time, where Robert fires jugs, teapots, mugs, bowls, casseroles, platters, bread crocks, planters, water features and planters. These can be bought direct from the pottery. Sue Howard points to the employment that Koorooman Blueberries provides. “I employ four or five people during the picking time, which is now.” Pickers start at 7.30 and finish midafternoon. She has been selling the berries commercially for 10 years and credits their large, juicy deliciousness to tender loving care and pruning. The berries are certified organic and, according to Sue, the shrubs are beautiful in every season, through superb colours in autumn, red in winter and white flowers tinged with pink in the spring. “And there are no thorns.” Sue and her husband Chris do all the packing and sell mainly through the Koonwarra and Churchill Island farmers’ markets. The farm and its 750 blueberry shrubs, is on the market. Ken and Lois Townsend run a nursery at Wonthaggi. They propagate 95 per cent of what they sell because, said Ken, if the plants grow locally, they are used to local conditions. Strzelecki Heritage Apples and Inverloch Quality Meats are other local businesses focused on local produce.

Local buying: the South Gippsland Farmers Market is a huge success.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 39

Stringing out your worries WORRY beads can make a great gift to help keep worries at bay or as an instrument of prayer. Margaret Tattersall of Mushroom Crafts in Leongatha has started the trend locally by making strings of worry beads, or she can easily help you with the materials to make a string of beads yourself. Worry beads are a small circle of beads that can take the day-to-day worries away. They have become popular among many cultures and are being used by people of all ages and both genders. A lot of people use them to help quit smoking, nail biting or reduce nervousness and stress. They are a way of helping to ease the tensions of modern day life and help you get more sleep. Making your own string of worry beads is simple. You’ll need a piece of string that is strong enough to handle the weight of the beads and leave enough string un-beaded, so that you can manipulate the beads along the string. The beads should be made of a natural material like wood or shell. Typically, worry beads have an odd number of beads, usually one more than a multiple of four, such as 5, 9, 13 or more. Additionally, you will need one shield bead, usually somewhat

larger than the others, where the string is tied. Natural materials such as stone or wood are considered more pleasant to handle, but you may use any type of bead you like. The traditional string of worry beads was initially used as a means of achieving calmness, but also as a spiritual instrument as prayer beads. They have been part of many religions, including Christianity, Buddhism, Islam and others. Tradition says that prayers were counted with each bead. Greek worry beads, called komboloi, were ﬁrst used by wealthy people like Sultans and Pashas and were considered a symbol of power and prestige. Worry beads can also be jewellery for both men and women, and a piece of art, when they are made of valuable materials and designed with high standards. They can also constitute a decorative element for the house, as well as collection pieces, for they can be unique, precious and beautiful. Worry beads can be a precious companion and a unique present as they can be seen as a reﬂection of personality. For details, call Margaret at Mushroom Crafts on 5662 2144.

Worry beads: Popular with many people, worry beads are used to quit smoking, nail biting or reduce nervousness and stress.

PAGE 40 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Bullock prices firm to dearer THE ﬁrst sale of 2010 at Leongatha saw 1071 head penned.

and most others made from 135c to 160c/kg. Yearlings

With three weeks between sales, and cattle putting on some solid condition, most of the yarding was of good to very good quality. Strong demand for bullocks saw prices average 2c/kg higher, although the quality played a big part in the results. Prime C muscle bullocks made from 149c to 159c, and heavy yearlings made to 160c/kg. Manufacturing bullocks made from 133c to 149c/kg. Good quality beef cows made between 124c and 131c/kg, but the potential for better dressing percentages saw averages fall 2c/kg. Larger frame dairy cows made from 96c to 118c, and the very poor cows made from 50c to 118c/kg, and were up to 9c/kg cheaper. There was a good supply of vealers and yearlings penned, most of which were in very good condition. Yearling heifers were 2c to 4c cheaper, and most vealers were up to 8c/kg lower. B muscle vealers made from 163c to 165c,

BULLOCKS 1 T. & C. Johnston, Stony Creek 8 I. McCraw, Moyarra 8 M. & J. Bostedt, Drifﬁeld 6 D.J. & D.A. Altson, Fish Creek 14 J. Lyons, Inverloch 11 Rumridge, Mt Eliza STEERS 1 K. & F. Whelan, Outtrim 3 P. & K. Mobbs, Korumburra 1 K. Oddy, Boolarra South 12 I.M. & J. Humphreys, Kardella 5 T. & C. Johnston, Stony Creek 12 D. Land, Arawata COWS 1 T. & E. Burns, Woodside 1 W.J. & J.M. Berry, Wonthaggi

made mostly between 114c and 150c/kg.

Wednesday, January 6 565 622 616 642 649 720

158.6 896.09 158.2 984.00 158.0 973.00 157.2 1008.00 156.6 1016.00 156.6 1126.81

320 337 260 568 496 558

173.6 165.0 164.0 160.0 158.0 156.6

555.52 555.50 427.96 910.00 786.66 873.00

640 130.0 570 127.6

832.00 727.32

3 R.S. & J.M. Smith, Woranga 608 127.6 776.23 5 I. & R. Hengstberger, Stony Creek 508 127.6 648.21 1 J. Brennan, Tarwin Lower 575 127.6 733.70 1 L.G., L.A. & T.C. Caulder, Meeniyan 710 127.6 905.96 HEIFERS 1 T. & C. Johnston, Stony Creek 475 6 P. & K. Mobbs, Korumburra 318 2 K. & F. Whelan, Outtrim 340 1 K. Taylor, Drumdlemara 490 5 J.D. & S.M. Humphrey, Nerrena 351 2 Lloyd Hengstberger, Dumbalk North 784.75 BULLS 1 G. & P. Giardina, Mirboo North 780 1 K. Dixon, Yarram 1005 1 R.J. & C.M. McGill, Kongwak 990 1 P. & E. Hance, Nyora 875 1 R.F. & V.M. Dowel, Leongatha South 980 1 G.W. & T.A. Shilliday, Fish Creek 805

164.6 781.85 163.6 520.79 163.6 556.24 150.6 737.94 146.2 513.16 538 146.0

145.6 142.0 142.0 142.0 138.0 138.0

1135.68 1427.10 1405.80 1242.50 1352.40 1110.90

Weaners go west By Brad Lester

SOUTH Gippsland agents took advantage of lower than average prices at Western District weaner sales last week. Prices were up to 15 cents below average at sales at Colac, Casterton and Hamilton, as dry conditions in the north dis-

BIG SAVINGS ON NEW JOHN DEERE HAY GEAR! • Hay/Silage Balers • Mower Conditioners • Self-Propelled Windrowers

NEW 864 Baler included

couraged regular buyers from New South Wales and Queensland attending. Interstate buyers typically account for half of sales, but this year they headed home with only ﬁve to 10 per cent of yardings. Lower than average prices enabled South Gippslanders to buy a bigger share of the 10,000 steers offered in the west than usual last Monday and Tuesday week. Terry Ginnane of Landmark Leongatha attended the western sales

and bought 1100 head for eight clients. “South Gippsland agents have been taking a good share of the cattle. Landmark bought 500 out of a yarding of 2300 at Casterton and 400 out of 3000 at Hamilton,” he said. “In the last four to ﬁve years, because the northern buyers have been so strong, we have not been able to buy that many.” Weaner steers aged nine to 11 months averaged 280-380kg and made 160-180 cents a kilogram

liveweight, down from $1.80-$1.90 last year. “The difference of about 15 cents reﬂects the whole beef market itself. At the end of the day, the margins are still pretty tight for farmers,” Mr Ginnane said. “As much as we want to see the store price come back, we want to see the fats go up and we’re hoping to see that.” Mr Ginnane paid the top price of 171 cents a kilogram at Hamilton on Tuesday, for a pen of 21 eleven-month-old steers averaging 421kg. Most of his clients are bullock fatteners but the western weaners may be grown for the feedlot market or fattened for the heavier steer market. South Gippslanders competed for cattle with Western District and South Australian producers for replacements. “Southern Victoria is having a very good season and a lot of the cattle stayed in southern Victoria and also Mount Gambier and Penola in South Australia where they’ve been having similar weather,” Mr Ginnane said. South Gippsland agents expect to attend further weaner sales at Yea, Mansﬁeld and Albury this week, and may return to the west. The agents’ journeys are typical for this time of year, as farmers in the west and north-east reduce herds to maximise limited pasture in the dry season, and also make way for new rounds of calves.

VLE LEONGATHA KOONWARRA

Sale Draw NOW ON - Early Order FACTORY BONUS DEALS! Hamilton: (03) 5572 3522 Terang: (03) 5592 2388 Meeniyan: (03) 5664 7365 Ballarat: (03) 5334 7555 Offer ends January 31st, 2010. Take advantage of the Federal Government’s 50% investment allowance.

www.windmillag.com.au

January 13 & 14 1. SEJ 2. Elders 3. Landmark 4. Rodwells 5. David Phelan & Co 6. Alex Scott

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 41

New yards raise the baa

NEW sheep and lamb pens at VLE Leongatha at Koonwarra were ofﬁcially opened on Thursday. Read the full report on page 13.

New yards: cost about $1 million to build.

Brian Kyle: auctions for Elders at the sheep and lamb sale.

McColl family: Grant, Noah, Abbey and Tracie (Mardan) at the sale on Thursday.

PAGE 42 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Classifieds

Sell it in the "Star"

PHONE 5662 5555 P FAX 5662 4350

situations vacant

NEWHAVEN COLLEGE In Quietness and Conﬁdence Shall Be Your Strength

VISITING INSTRUMENTAL TEACHER of GUITAR 1.5 days a week, to commence in term one, 2010. Potential for increase in hours (dependent on Music enrolments). Applicants need to be experienced, enthusiastic, and have the ability to teach both contemporary and classical styles on acoustic and electric guitar. CV and names of three referees to: Mrs Elaine Epifano, Director of Music Newhaven College Boys Home Road, Newhaven, 3925 Ph: 5956 7505 Fax: 5956 7131 email: epifanoe@newhavencol.vic.edu.au www.newhavencol.vic.edu.au Applications close: Friday 22 January 2010

An Independent Co-Educational School on Phillip Island, Prep to Year 12

situations vacant

Computer Specialist Technician Cool Bananas Services is a provider of IT Specialist Technicians to the education sector in Victoria. The School Specialist Technician will be responsible for the support for all school technology including hardware, software, server and network related issues. Minimum working knowledge: Windows/Mac experience, server/workstation, install-configure computer hardwaresoftware, excellent written and verbal communication skills. Minimum 12 months experience in IT sector. For further information and full job description email us your details and we will be in contact with you shortly. admin@coolbananasservices.com.au

Why not start your own business? Free business training Free business mentoring Income support for up to 52 weeks

Are you are on Centrelink payments?

Then you could be eligible.

Heard of NEIS? For further information and application forms: email neis@chisholm.edu.au or phone: 1300 CHISHOLM/1300 24474656

www.chisholm.edu.au

situations vacant

BANKSIA HEALTH CARE 2 CASUAL POSITIONS Mature, friendly, organised persons required for: (1) Office Assistant - Accounts / Reception Typing, invoicing, payroll, public contact. Three days per week 12.30 to 3pm. (2) Office Assistant - Facilities Cleaning, gardening, maintenance. Four days per week 8.30 to 9.30am. Conﬁdentiality essential in all aspects Phone 5662 4800 for duty statement Applications close: January 22, 2010

situations vacant

CHEF

REQUIRED Great conditions PHONE 5659 2351

CASUAL LOADER DRIVER With heavy licence preferred

RECOVERY SUPPORT WORKER LEONGATHA

UNEMPLOYED?

situations vacant

SNAP Gippsland Inc. is a leader in Psychiatric Disability Rehabilitation Support Services in Gippsland. SNAP Gippsland prides itself on delivering quality innovative services that assist adults with mental health problems in their recovery. Applications are being sought from suitably qualified and experienced people to join SNAP Gippsland’s Leongatha team. Do you have a background in Health Care or Social Work? Do you want to work with a Recovery Oriented Focus? We are looking for enthusiastic, optimistic, “can do” people who believe that they can truly make a difference in the recovery outcomes of the people who use SNAP’s services. Training and Certification will be provided in Collaborative Therapy and the Collaborative Recovery Model, our chosen models of care. You will receive support and supervision in the role. If you believe you may be one of these people please phone Cathy Carr, (SNAP General Manager) or Chris McNamara (SNAP CEO) on ph (03) 5153 1823 for a confidential discussion about the role and a position description. Applications close 5pm Wednesday, January 27, 2010. SNAP Gippsland Inc. is a not for profit organisation. The salary is competitive and staff are entitled to salary packaging.

Employment Opportunities at Bass Coast Administration Of cer x 3 • $44,000 to $47,000 plus super • Permanent full time positions • Exceptional career opportunity Here is your opportunity to join one of the fastest growing municipalities in Victoria. Three positions, one in Waste Services/ Infrastructure and Property, one in the CEO’s Of ce and one in Human Resources, will provide plenty of exciting opportunities. Your days will be varied and challenging as you actively assist your team in a range of administration tasks. These opportunities will suit motivated, enthusiastic and organised team players with attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines. You will have excellent customer service, organisation and administration skills, Microsoft Of ce suite (essential), well developed communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships across our organisation. We are also accepting applications for our casual administration pool. Applications close on Friday, 22 January 2010. To apply please see the employment section on our website or contact HR on 1300 BCOAST (226 278). Bass Coast Shire Council, 76 McBride Avenue, Wonthaggi VIC 3995 | DX 34903 Wonthaggi | PO Box 118, Wonthaggi VIC 3995 | 1300 BCOAST (226 278) for standard call cost | basscoast@basscoast.vic.gov.au | www.basscoast. vic.gov.au

Good rate of pay, excellent working conditions, uniform supplied after qualifying period. Phone 5662 3271 for interview

CATALOGUE DISTRIBUTORS AND COLLECTORS REQUIRED Earn $100 to $200 a week for 2 hours max daily NO OUTLAY

Call 1300 663 161

AREA MANAGERS Required for catalogue distribution. Earn $300 to $500 cash weekly for 20 hours. Car and internet required.

Call 1300 663 161

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 43

situations vacant

public notices

BOAT LICENCE Switched On Service

FRENCH TEACHER See www.mackillopleongatha.catholic.edu.au for details

MERCHANDISE SALES LEONGATHA A vacancy exists at Rodwells in our Leongatha Branch for a Merchandise Sales Person. The main responsibilities of the position are to: • Sell rural merchandise to clients specialising in, animal health, pastures, snow peas, potatoes and a range of horticultural and farming activities; • Assist with instore counter requirements including serving customers, ordering, maintaining merchandise displays, deliveries and inventory management; • Provide professional, efficient, safe and quality service to our clients. • Assist at the Livestock market one day per week. The following qualifications are desirable: • A minimum of Year 12 VCE qualification. • An understanding of or experience in selling rural merchandise, preferably with a basic knowledge of the products and requirements of rural producers within the Leongatha region. • Competent computer skills. • Good organisational, customer service and communication skills. • A current driver’s. For further information contact Tim Sargant, Merchandise Manager on 0428 943 853. This position offers a career opportunity with a progressive and growing company and a competitive remuneration package will be negotiated with the successful applicant. Only motivated and honest people need to apply. Hand written applications close on January 15 and should be sent to: Tim Sargant Rodwells 10 - 12 Hughes St, Leongatha, VIC, 3953

SALES PERSON

PWC available

Leading Edge Computers Leongatha has a position available for a SALES PERSON. The successful applicant must: • Be available to work some Saturdays. • Be experienced in sales. • Have a sound computer knowledge. • Be self motivated with an excellent work ethic. • Be willing to work as part of a team. • Be able to adopt existing business practices. Initial wage is at the award rate with the option of bonuses and increases for the right person. If this sounds like you and you’re interested in being part of a motivated, customer focused team in an enjoyable workplace, please submit your application to: The Manager Leading Edge Computers 32 Bair St, Leongatha, 3953 (Only written applications accepted)

Advertising Consultant Casual Position IMMEDIATE START 5 days per week The Star requires an enthusiastic individual to work in our advertising sales department. A background in sales and customer service would be an advantage. Apply in writing to: Manager, Tony Giles on email tony@thestar.com.au Applications close Friday, January 22 Enquiries on 5662 2294

INVERLOCH

Sunday, January 17 12.30pm Contact Joan 0427 275 632 Marine Training Services

CHIROPRACTOR

Garry Harrison 19 Moonah Street Cape Paterson Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday By appointment Ph: 5674 8290 Latrobe Community Health Service are seeking enthusiastic and highly motivated individuals for the following positions:

Full-Time (38 hours per week)

We are seeking a highly motivated experienced Occupational Therapist to manage our Occupational Therapy Department and to undertake a small caseload of clients. Terms and conditions of employment are according to experience. Salary packaging available. Wonthaggi is situated 120kms south east of Melbourne close to beaches, tourist attractions and offers various leisure activities. The successful applicant will be required to: • Oversee the following areas within the department; inpatients, outpatients, HACC home based, Planned Activities Groups and Aids & Equipment Program • Be an active team leader that promotes the organisation’s goals • Provide direct supervision and coordination of overall clinical and administrative management of the department • Undertake Human Resource Management • Perform financial, administration and budgeting tasks • Have an understanding of the funding sources and inter-relationships of programs within the service • Be committed to Continuous Quality Improvement For more information about Bass Coast Regional Health visit our website on www.bcrh.com.au Applicants are encouraged to contact Pat Grasby on 5671 3333 for a Position Description Written applications with CV, including 2 referees, and current police check to: Kaye Beaton, Director Community Services Bass Coast Regional Health, Graham Street WONTHAGGI VIC 3995 Applications close on January 29, 2010 Smoke-Free Organisation

NURSE UNIT MANAGER DISTRICT NURSING Registered Nurse Division 1 Grade 4 Full-Time An opportunity exists for a motivated Registered Nurse with the right skills, qualities and experience in coordinating home based nursing care (including palliative care) and service management. The successful applicant will need to be an active team leader who promotes the organisation’s goals by providing direct supervision and coordination of overall clinical and administrative management of the department. The position also involves Human Resource Management, financial and administrative tasks. The applicant must have an understanding of the funding sources of the department, be committed to Continuous Quality Improvement and have basic computer skills. For more information about Bass Coast Regional Health visit our website on: www.bcrh.com.au Enquiries and Position Description and written applications, including a current resumé and the names of 2 professional referees, should be forwarded to: Kaye Beaton Director Community Service Bass Coast Regional Health Graham Street Wonthaggi Vic 3995 Tel: (03) 56713333 Closing Date: Friday, January 22, 2010

“NON-FORCE PRACTITIONER”

Carer Support Coordinator

28 Reilly Street, INVERLOCH

48 Hours per fortnight - Permanent Part Time Based in Korumburra 76 Hours per fortnight - Permanent Full Time Based in Sale

HOURS - Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday by appointment Phone and fax 5674 3666 South Gippsland Chiropratic Services & Adjunctive Therapies P/L

The Carer Support Coordinators role is to work with carers of the aged and those with disabilities who require information, support or access to respite. The Support Coordinator will also be required to resource the community, to better meet the needs of carers. The successful applicant will also work collaboratively with service providers, become an active team member to continually enhance the Commonwealth Respite Centre's capacity and maintain records to submit comprehensive reports as directed.

KONGWAK MARKET THIS SUNDAY 10AM &

Special Twilight Market Wednesday, January 20 4pm - 8pm (a little bit of Sunday on a Wednesday)

Applications received for the above positions MUST address the stated Selection Criteria. Applications should be completed and forwarded electronically via our website www.lchs.com.au. For further information, a position description or how to lodge an electronic application please visit www.lchs.com.au or contact Joanne Creighton 5136 5486.

Collectables, vintage, retro, this & that, bits & bobs, treasure, junk, books, plants, coffee, curry, live music and more...

Closing date for applications for the above positions is Friday 4:30pm, 22 January 2010.

DEADLINE

…Better health, Better lifestyles, Stronger communities…

Chief Occupational Therapist

CHIROPRACTOR NORMAN G. VRADENBURG

It's fun - come! For more info, please call 0417 142 478 Kongwak Market is a smoke free event

ZO020007

Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College, Leongatha

3 HOUR COURSE MSV approved $85

Most photos that appear in “The Star” can be purchased by calling 5662 2294. public notices

public notices

The next edition of Gippy Buy Sell & Trade is this coming Sunday Phone 5145 1269 Free advertising for private sellers

public notices

Water Act 1989 Dairy Shed Water Licence Transition Program - Reminder In October 2009, the Minister for Water, the Hon Tim Holding MP, announced the commencement of the Dairy Shed Water Licence Transition Program. The program is aimed at ensuring Victorian dairy farmers are fully licensed for the water used in their dairy sheds and is being run by the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE). The program involves an amnesty period which ends on Friday 26 February this year. Those whose current dairy shed water use is unlicensed or not fully licensed need to apply by this date thereby ensuring they are compliant with the Water Act 1989. After this time, people whose dairy shed water use is not fully licensed will be treated as unauthorised water users and risk incurring penalties under the Water Act 1989. Dairy farm owners, who have not already done so, are reminded to apply as soon as possible to meet the Friday 26 February deadline. A completed application form must reach your water corporation by this date. Information on the program is available from www.ourwater.vic.gov.au, or your water corporation. Goulburn–Murray Water 1800 013 357 (toll free) or (03) 5833 5500 Grampians–Wimmera–Mallee Water 1300 659 961 Lower Murray Water (03) 5051 3400 Melbourne Water 131 722 Southern Rural Water 1300 139 510 www.dse.vic.gov.au Customer Service Centre 136 186

mitch34064

PAGE 44 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

public notices TWILIGHT CONCERT WARRAWEE SENIOR CITIZENS HALL A’Beckett St. Inverloch

PETER NICHOLLS from Melbourne stage and theatre productions will be performing with other Melbourne artists

Sunday, January 17 5PM START Proceeds to Inverloch Uniting Church Admission $15 Enquiries 5674 1557

public notices MAJOR raffle for the Anderson Inlet Angling Club Inverloch results: 1st Cheryl Borg, ticket no. 270; 2nd Ian Blackwell, ticket no. 057; 3rd Wesley Morgan, ticket no. 213. Thank you to everyone who supported the raffle. THE ORGANIC HAIR & BEAUTY SALON: 150 Bald Hills Road, Tarwin Lower, Deanne Dakers. Ph. 5663-5439, website: www. theorganicbeautysalon. com

for sale

SEWING MACHINE REPAIRS & SALES

FIREWOOD, redgum & local wood, Ph 0408-980711, A/H 5662-5175

WONTHAGGI SEWING CENTRE

HAY - 5x4 round $50, small squares $7. Excellent quality. Outtrim. Ph: 0419313483.

FREE QUOTES

167 Graham Street Wonthaggi

5672 3127

INDIGENOUS DANCING Featuring Sunset Dancers

7.15pm GRANTVILLE LODGE 200 Grantville - Glen Alvie Road, Grantville

Help support the Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club Building Fund www.islsc.org.au

POOL TABLE Slate base, turned legs, with both sets of pool balls. Dining table top, cues, cue stand, rule book etc. Will not separate 9467 5252 after 5pm (Venus Bay)

public notices

ART CLASSES Painting on location

INVERLOCH Saturday, January 9 10am to 2pm cost $60 RHYLL, PHILLIP ISLAND Saturday, January 16 10am to 2pm cost $60 ARCHIES on the CREEK Saturday, January 23 10am to 4pm Cost $85 includes lunch Bookings Janice Orchard Phone 0419 301 363 www.janiceorchard.com

GARAGE SALE Saturday, January 16 5 Noel Court LEONGATHA

HOUSEHOLD furniture: 2 leather recliners, couch, 2 single beds, large dressing table, drawers, tables, chairs, and more. Ph: 56623541, 0439-912966.

Will pay up to $300 for complete car Buyers of scrap metal

Garage Sale

SLEEPERS, treated pine, 200x50x2.4 $12.10 each, 200x75x2.4 $16.75 each. Free delivery for pack lots. Phone Joe 0417-530662.

Tuesday, January 26

used vehicles

marriage celebrant

FREE CAR REMOVAL

ROTARY hoe, 5hp Briggs & Stratton, American made, $350; cultivator $100, farm gate (new) 120 x 237cm $40. Ring 0458-036458.

ANDERSON INLET SWIM CLASSIC

Showgrounds Poultry Pavillion on Sunday, January 17, starting at 10.30am. Wide variety of poultry, young hens, many breeds, fertile eggs. Open for sellers from 8am. Ph: 5197 7270 or 0438 325 918.

garage sales

HEN HOUSES, fox proof, good quality, 6-8 chooks. The Perfect Henhouse. Ph: 5664-2443.

POOL TABLE, 3/4 size, slate based, from Astra Billiards, EC, inc. all access, $900. 5657-7384.

Bring a rug to sit on Donation gold coin PHONE: 0413 008 455 Bass Coast / South Gippsland Reconciliation Group

livestock POULTRY and Cage Bird Auction at the Traralgon

Household items, dining table & chairs, toys, etc.

JACK RUSSELL pup, 3 month old female, tan and white, $125. Ph: 56623186.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17

1.2 km - 7.30am start Inverloch Angling Club Beach Anderson Inlet

for sale DINING SUITE, 7 piece. Excellent condition, $375. 0407-352649.

STANDING GRASS, $10 per 5ft round bale, 15 acres, Mirboo North. Must cut now. Robert 0419696655. TIMBER - kiln dried blackwood, clear pine, silver wattle. Most sizes for furniture and craft. Also builder’s graded structural pine. Phone 5681-2261.

free

FREE Pick-up and delivery in Leongatha/Meeniyan areas for MOTOR MOWERS,

CHAINSAWS AND STATIONARY ENGINES ETC. Repairs and services

Phone JOHN GOULD 5664 0012

room to let FULL board including food and internet, $200 per week neg. Leongatha. Suit professional. Glenda 0418540533.

public notices

All machinery Bins provided

Bass Coast Metal Recyclers 5672 2946 0417 556 593

wanted USED roofing iron, any pattern, no rust, any length. Ph: 0408-177008.

wanted to buy FURNITURE: Parker, Noblett, Tessa, Chiswell, Moran, or any quality brand name used furniture. Phone Wendy on 0409-234482. OLD CARS, Holden, Ford, Valiant, Chevrolet, hot rods, also Mazda 1300 coupe. Abandoned projects, wrecks or parts. Not for scrap. 0488-294894. OLD MOTORBIKES road, trail, motocross, farm, scooters, 4WDs, minis, wrecks or just parts. Cash paid. 5664-8344.

work wanted PLUMBER Apprentice 2nd year looking for host employer to continue on the job training, to finish apprenticeship. Also willing to take on a plumber’s assistant role or any parttime position. Ph: 0419108471.

meetings MEENIYAN RSL Annual General Meeting There will be an AGM On January 27 at 1.30pm in room next to hall The AGM was due on January 26 but we decided to have Australia Day instead. All members voting will need to be ﬁnancial by the AGM

public notices

8am - 1pm

LEONGATHA 46 Ogilvy Street

Saturday, January 16 8am - 1pm Various goods No early birds

GARAGE SALE Saturday, January 16

8.30am 2 Bent Street LEONGATHA Furniture inc. dining setting, 2 dressers, single bed, easy chair, tools and household items

HUGE CLEARING SALE 70% off all remaining stock

D L O

T U O

OPEN THE FOLLOWING DAYS

Thursday, January 7 to Sunday, January 10

and

Thursday, January 14 to Sunday, January 17 11AM - 5PM EACH DAY

ANTIQUE SHOP At Poowong roundabout

GIANT GARAGE SALE January 23, 2010

Furniture, Books, Manchester, Toys, Bric-a-Brac, & more... LIONS SHED Inverloch Rec Reserve 8am to 2pm All proceeds to local hospitals in Wonthaggi and Leongatha To make donations of quality goods call Geoff Cole on 5674 6030 or 0400 261 350 LIONS CLUB OF INVERLOCH & DISTRICT

LEONGATHA: 3 St Andrews Drive, Saturday, January 16, 8.30am to 12 noon. Household goods, fitness equipment, bric-abrac, bikes. No early birds. LEONGATHA: 32 Bellingham Street. Huge Garage Sale - doll collection and much, much more. Saturday and Sunday, January 16 and 17, 9am - 2pm.

message of hope GOD is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1.

births STUBBS (Ozolkaja) - To Justin and Signe, a baby boy born January 10 in Drogheda, Ireland. All well.

Jenny Milkins All areas - 5672 3123 jenny_milkins@hotmail.com

PAM HERRALD 5662 2553 0438 097 181

CAM ABOOD Leongatha 5662 4191

MERLENE STRATTON Leongatha 5662 2574

deaths

BATEMAN - Mary. 7/1/2010. (Late of Kyneton, formerly of Wooreen). Loved eldest child of the late Richard and Elizabeth White, dear sister of Norm (dec.), Helen (dec.) and Ruth (Mason). Aged 93 years. At peace. BREEDIN - Adam Jeffrey. Adored grandson of Lorna and Jeff. Our darling Adam, you brought great love and joy to our lives. Til we meet again. Nan and Grang. BREEDIN - Adam Jeffrey. Much loved nephew of Julie and Col, cousin of Trent, Caz, Jonathan and Simon. Adam, our memories of you are a gift we will treasure for a lifetime. BREEDIN - Adam Jeffrey. On January 3, 2010 at Dimbulah, Qld. Dearly loved son of Heather and Paul (dec.). Loved brother of Dianne and Jake. Uncle of Jessie, Geoffrey and Ricky. A brave heart finally at rest. BUTTA - Lynda June. Tragically taken from us on January 2, 2010. Greatly loved wife of Vince. Adored mother of Sarah and Carole. Cherished grandmother of Charlotte, Abbey and Cameron. Loved daughter and sister of Noel, Heather and Robert Densley. A very special loved one who will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Funeral held Monday, January 11. STEPHEN BAGGS FUNERAL DIRECTORS BAIRNSDALE 5153-2150 BUTTA - Lynda. Result of accident. Dear friend of Phil Veron and family. So many happy times together. Our thoughts are with Vinny and girls. CAMPBELL (nee Walker) Carol Chenery. Passed away peacefully at Leongatha Hospital on January 6, 2010 after a short illness, late of Mardan. Dearly loved wife of Keith (dec.). Loved and adored mum of Dallas, Graeme (dec.), Jennifer, Heather and Robyn. Loving and caring mother-in-law of Heather, Julie, David and Mark. Adored grandma of Russell and Tina, Trevor and Natasha, Stuart and Brogan, Larissa, Ben and Ranuka, and Corey; Moriah, Naomi and Chelsea; James, Tyler and Kerry; Austin, Corrie and Benjamin. Proud great grandma of twins Jenson and Cooper, born December 17, 2009. Always giving, always gracious. Will be greatly missed.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 45

deaths MAXWELL - Audrey. On January 6. Dearest life-long friend of Lorraine and dear friend of Rex (dec.), and their families. Many happy memories. MAXWELL Audrey Purvis. Passed away peacefully on January 6, 2010, aged 75 years. Late of Leongatha. Dearly loved wife of Doug for 56 years. Very much loved mother and mother-in-law of Kerry (dec.) and Geoff, Lynne and Warren, Vicki and Mark. Loved nan of Rebecca; Steph and Elle; Kara and Mitchell. Forever in our hearts and now peacefully resting. MAXWELL Audrey Purvis. Passed away January 6. Loved sister-in-law of Mavis, Keith (dec.). Loved aunt to our families. Fond memories. Peacefully sleeping. PRITCHARD - Alan. Many great memories Alan, firstly from the Youth Club days and the visits to Greenwood Parade, progressing to a few beers at McCartins of a Friday after work, and the many trips to the football. All memorable. You will be sadly missed. Sincerest condolences to Norma, Cheryl, Brian and families. Rod. QUINLAN - Kerry. Our sincere condolences to Tim, Connor and Callan. Kerry is remembered with respect and affection. From past and present Partners and Staff at Leongatha Healthcare. RICH (Gunsser) - Valerie Anne. 23/10/1938 - 05/01/2010. Died peacefully at home at Foster. Formerly of Meeniyan. Adored Mum of Kathy, Kylie, Shauna and Donna. Fond mother-in-law and friend of Rob, Ken and Russell. Dear Nanna to Nicole (dec.), Chelsea, Charlee and Delaney. Former wife of Warren. As long as life and memories last, you will live forever in our hearts. Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. Our memories of you Mum are like leaves of gold, They will never die or grow old. Rest peacefully with our Nicki. Your battle is finally over. Much loved Mum to Shauna and Ken, special crab Nanna to Nicole (dec.) and Chelsea. Peacefully at her beautiful home. For those who have a mother, Love her while you can. Because we would give the world and more,

deaths To have ours back again. You’ve earnt your rest Mum. Thank you for all I have learnt. I am so proud to be your daughter. Donna and Russell. STAINKAMPH - Barry. A man who was always willing to help. Barry will be sadly missed as a friend and Pa for Sam. Always remembered. Ron, Sonia and Sam. TUFF - Des. “The Mayor of Koorooman”. Thank you Des for the kindness and friendship you gave our darling Mum during her time at Koorooman. You will be missed by all. The family of Billie Walsh. TUFF - Desmond R. Much loved and loving father and father-in-law of Sharyn and Calvin Eagle - Buffalo. Adored Pop of Michaela and Chris, Koh and Bree. Dad how proud we were that we were yours. How am I going to cope without our “chats”, phone calls and visits? You were so loved. Reunited with your beloved Bessie. His life was gentle, and the elements so mixed in Him, that nature might stand up and say to all the world, This was a Man. TUFF - Des. Thank you for being such a great friend to our mum and nana, Jean Gotch, during her time at Koorooman House. You were one of a kind Des, and will be missed. Barb and Sue Fleming. TUFF - Des. A true gentleman, a great neighbour and a great family friend. Deepest sympathy to his family. The Hanily family.

deaths TUFF - Desmond R. The saddest thing in life to bear, Is to want your Dad when he’s not there, Today, tomorrow, my whole life through, I will always thank God that my Dad was you. Sadly missed and forever in our hearts. - Wendy, Brian and Noel. TUFF - Des. A valued member and a great supporter of our club, even after he retired from bowls. The thoughts of Meeniyan Bowling Club members are with his family. TUFF - Des. Much loved uncle of Carol and Robert, Lorraine and Brian, Paul and Linda, Stephen and Lee, and families. Special memories will always be ours.

funerals BREEDIN - The Graveside Funeral Service for the late Adam Jeffrey Breedin will be held at the Leongatha Lawn Cemetery on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 commencing at 2pm. Paul & Margaret Beck HANDLEY FUNERAL SERVICES Leongatha Korumburra 5662-2717 Member AFDA

Out and about THE hot weather has not stopped South Gippslanders from getting out and about. From Corner Inlet to the Bass Coast Show, there have been plenty of reasons to make the most of summer.

Right Big names: Taylah Turner (front), Katie Statham and Jarrod Turner, all of Wonthaggi, and Leah Joyce of Bass met stunt motorcyclist, Daniel Tunnecliffe who performed at the Show. Fine specimens: Watermill Murray Grey stud of Red Hill took ﬁrst and second place in the pair of bulls class at the Murray Grey feature show at the Bass Coast Show. The stud was represented by Peter King, Sonia King, Matthew Thomson and Darryl Bjorksten.

RICH - The Funeral Service for the late Mrs Valerie Anne Rich will be held at the Uniting Church, Meeniyan on Wednesday, January 13, commencing at 11am. The funeral will leave at the conclusion of the service for the Meeniyan Lawn Cemetery. Paul & Margaret Beck HANDLEY FUNERAL SERVICES Leongatha Korumburra 5662-2717 AFDA

crossword solutions CRYPTIC PUZZLE NO. 8204 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Rick. 7, Out of hand. 8, O-pen. 9, An-O-n. 10, Trap (rev.). 11, A-s(hac)k-s. 14, Attachment. 16, Fall behind. 19, Ewes (use). 22, S-Co-t. 24, Rest. 25, Bill. 26, See-in-g red . 27, Peke (peak). Down - 1, Rh-O-da. 2, Check (Czech). 3, P-unn-et. 4, Cognac. 5, Shot. 6, Incarnate (anag.). 12, Scratches. 13, Sa-IL. 15, Made (maid). 17, (sp)E-nrag-e(ch). 18, Is-sued. 20, Wh-I-ne. 21, Sa-L-ve. 23, Trim. QUICK PUZZLE NO. 8204 - SOLUTIONS Across - 1, Lady. 7, Tarantula. 8, Mail. 9, Boar. 10, Peel. 11, Till. 14, Yugoslavia. 16, Television. 19, Tied. 22, Isle. 24, Cent. 25, Sten. 26, Infirmity. 27, Erse. Down - 1, Limit. 2, Drill. 3, Sarong. 4, Taurus. 5, Stop. 6, Alleviate. 12, Incessant. 13, Lyre. 15, Aunt. 17, Income. 18, Ignite. 20, Inter. 21, Dense. 23, Erin.

Allambee Mirboo and District Tennis Tournaments held Saturday and Sunday Conditions were very hot and entries were not good in all sections. A Grade: Men: Greg Marshman and Frank Dekker. Ladies: Michelle Krohn and Bronwyn Willliams. Mixed: Michelle Krohn and Warren

Littlejohn. A Reserve: Men: Justin Krohn and Sam Wilson. Ladies: Cindy Nicholas and Leisa Alcorn. Mixed: Angie Williams and Phil Munro. B Grade: Men: Martin Nicholas and Davin Nicholas.There were no entries in ladies and mixed sections.

Sky high: Charlie James revels in his holiday regime of fun at the Port Welshpool wharf.

Charming sounds: Wonthaggi Urban Fire Brigade ﬁreﬁghters Ashley England and Travis Hill were taken by the Grand Concert Street Organ which was a feature of the Bass Coast Show.

Bass Coast Agricultural Show results BEST exhibit in the pavilion was won by Carolina Kloosterman for her cross-stitch needlework. Lita Gill won the grand aggregate by scooping the pool in the ﬂower, garden and farm product sections. Garden and Farm Produce: Best exhibit A.J. & L.S. Dowson, aggregate Lita Gill. Cut Flowers: Best Exhibit Joy Lewis, best dahlia Lita Gill, aggregate Lita Gill. Bowls, Arrangements and Pot Plants: Best exhibit ﬂoral Lita Gill, aggregate Lita Gill, best exhibit pot plants Lita Gill. Junior Floral: Best exhibit Angus Gatto, aggregate Kate Dietrich. Cookery: Best exhibit Megan Prentice. Jams and Preserves: Best exhibit Merle Jopson. Home Produce: Aggregate cookery Megan Prentice, aggregate jams Sara Scott.

Junior Cookery: Best exhibit Megan Prentice, aggregate Megan Prentice. Knitting and Crochet: Best exhibit Pamela Watt. Needlework: Best exhibit Carolina Kloosterman, aggregate Patricia Griggs. Craft: Best exhibit Michael Cook, aggregate Patricia Griggs. Art: Best exhibit J. Rangott, aggregate J. Rangott. Junior Craft: Best exhibit Dean West, aggregate Alex Benetti. Photography: Best exhibit Lyn Allen, aggregate Joan Hales. Junior Photography: Best exhibit Bianca Fahey, aggregate T.J. Sartori.

Poultry John Rowe Memorial Trophy for Champion Bird in Show: OEG black red male - large, George Lucas of Woodside. Reserve champion bird in show: Light Sussex female bantam, Gunter

Krohn, Frankston. Champion Softfeather large: White Polish, Debbie Sigmund, Boolarra. Champion Hardfeather large: OEG black red male, George Lucas, Woodside. Champion Softfeather Bantam: Light Sussex female bantam, Gunter Krohn, Frankston. Champion Hardfeather Bantam: OEG black red DL male, George Lucas, Woodside. Champion Waterfowl: Cayuga, Stephen Mullett, Korumburra. Champion Bird - Junior: Langhsan bantam female, David O’Meara, Bass. Reserve Champion Bird - Junior: Langhsan bantam female, David O’Meara, Bass. Best Eggs: Jonathan Luke of Glen Alvie. Best Novice: Judy Smith of Foster. Judge: Bob French, Geelong.

PAGE 46 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Inverloch Junior Tennis Classic THE 29th Annual Inverloch Junior Tennis Classic was held recently. Finance Consulting and Accounting was the major sponsor, supported by McDonalds and the Bendigo Bank.

Results

Fine form: 10-year-old tennis sensation Lachie Scott, from Kongwak, hits the ball sweetly.

Ace return: Cape Woolamai’s Jack Keating, 10, was an expert at the double-handed backhand.

TIDES Here is an easy guide to tides in your area. To determine tides for a particular area, add or subtract periods of times as shown below. Earlier Minutes Apollo Bay ...........................25 King Island (Grassy) ...........10 King Island (Surprise Bay)....40 King Island (Franklin) ...........40 Lakes Entrance .................... 170 Lorne ...................................... 20 Mallacoota Inlet.................... 158 Rip Bank ................................ 15 Snowy River Entrance ......... 170 _______________________ Cape Schanck, Flinders, Mornington Ocean Beaches, Seal Rocks, Venus Bay, Waratah Bay, Woolamai ....... nil _________________________ Later Minutes Altona ................................... 195 Barwon Heads Bridge ........... 15 Carrum ................................. 195 Corinella ................................. 68 Cowes Pier............................. 50 Dromana .............................. 195 Frankston ............................. 195 Geelong ............................... 210 Hastings ................................. 66 Hovell Pile ............................ 195 Inverloch Pier ......................... 15 Melbourne ............................ 200 Mornington ........................... 195 Newhaven Jetty ..................... 30 No. 1 West Channel (Annulus)........................... 50 No. 2 South Channel Light .... 70 No. 8 South Channel Light .. 150 Port Albert Pier ...................... 90 Portarlington Pier ................. 190 Portsea Pier ........................... 80 Port Welshpool (Rabbit Island .................... 10 Queenscliffe Pier ................... 30 Rhyll ....................................... 60 Rosebud............................... 195 Rye Pier ............................... 170 St. Leonards Pier ................. 190 Sandringham ....................... 195 Sorrento Pier........................ 130 Stony Point ............................. 40 South Channel Pile Light ..... 190 Swan Island Dock ................ 120 Tooradin ............................... 105 Warneet.................................. 84 Williamstown ........................ 200 Welshpool Pier....................... 90

At Port Phillip Heads

JANUARY Time

height (metres)

Add one hour for daylight saving

13 WED

14 THUR

15 FRI

16 SAT

17 SUN

18 MON

19 TUE

0246 0911 1533 2304

0.83 1.22 0.33 1.35

0403 1016 1639

0.84 1.19 0.33

0003 0519 1118 1738

1.38 0.80 1.18 0.31

0055 0623 1215 1830

1.41 0.74 1.19 0.29

0138 0715 1306 1915

1.45 0.66 1.23 0.29

0213 0758 1351 1957

1.47 0.58 1.26 0.29

0243 0835 1433 2032

1.49 0.51 1.30 0.32

All times shown in 24 hour clock 0001 - 1200..................AM 1201 - 2400..................PM

18 & Under: Boys singles: Nick Mashado d Nathan Spinks 6/4. Boys doubles: Nick Mashado/ Wade Aitken d Nathan Spinks/ Sam Sheppard 8/2. Boys consolation singles: James Monaghan. Girls singles: Jess Stephens d Loren Lindamayer 8/2. Girls doubles: Emma Riviere / Loren Lindamayer d Madison Sanders / Jess Stephens and Kate Appleyard / Suzie Fidler 8/4. Girls consolation singles: Kate Appleyard . Mixed doubles: Nathan Spinks / Jess stephens d Wade Aitken/Kate Appleyard 6/4. 16 & Under: Boys singles: Nathan Spinks d Scott McIvor 8/6. Boys doubles: Nathan Spinks/ Scott McIvor d Justin Krohn/ Sam Wilson 8/6. Boys consolation singles: James Monaghan d Luke Taylor 6/0. Girls singles: Emma Riviere d Jennifer Dawes 6/2. Girls doubles: Emma Riviere/ Jennifer Dawes d Holly Monaghan/ Georgia du Plessis 8/2. Girls consolation singles: Georgia du Plessis. Mixed doubles: Glen and Jennifer Dawes d James Monaghan / Emma Riviere 8/1. 14 & Under: Boys singles: Nathan Spinks d Sam Wilson 8/5. Boys doubles: Nathan Spinks/ Sam Wilson d Simon Thomas/ Tim Mashado 8/2. Boys consolation singles: Jack Clements d Brad Perks 6/2. Girls singles: Ashley Spinks d Jennifer Dawes 8/7 (11/9). Girls doubles: Jennifer Dawes/ Ashley Spinks d Kasey Teakle/Georgia du Plessis 8/2. Girls consolation singles: Holly Monaghan d Bridget Monaghan 6/0. Mixed doubles: Nathan and Ashley Spinks d Jack Clements/ Kasey Teakle 6/1. 12 & Under: Boys singles: Simon Thomas d Oliver Read 8/7. Boys doubles: Simon Thomas/ Jack Clements d Lawrence Barbuto / Oliver Read 6/2. Boys consolation singles: Zac Norman d Tim Halvorsen 6/3. Girls singles: Ashley Spinks d Anna Wilton 8/2. Girls doubles: Kaitlin McCluskey /Rebekah Command d Alison Dawes/ Ashley Spinks 6/4. Girls consolation singles: Lydia Binder d Ali Dawes 6/3. Mixed doubles: Oliver Read / Anna Wilton d Eddie Beishcer / Kaitlin McCluskey 6/1. 10 & Under: Boys singles: Jack Clements d Ben Grumley 8/0. Boys doubles: Jack Clements / Harry McInness d Ben Grumley / Elijah Cousins 8/2. Boys consolation singles: Elijah Cousins d Flynn Anderson 6/4. Girls singles: Alison Dawes d Rebecca Woods 18/12. Girls doubles: Alison Dawes / Jackie Carr d Millie Thomas / Rebecca Woods 6/3. Girls consolation singles: Millie Thomas (9). Mixed doubles: Anthony Command /Alison Dawes d Scott Anderson / Rebecca Woods 8/5.

18s trophy winners: Annette Sheppard (coach), Loren Lindenmayer, Suzie Fidler, Kate Appleyard, Wade Aitken, Emma Riviere, Nathan Spinks, Kerryn Benetti (Finance Consulting and Accounting representative), Julie Fidler (TCAV president), Nick Mashado, Sam Sheppard, Jessica Stephens and James Monaghan.

16s trophy winners: James Monaghan, Scott McIvor, Emma Riviere, Georgia du Plessis, Sam Wilson, Nathan Spinks, Justin Krohn, Glen Dawes and Jennifer Dawes.

14s trophy winners: Sam Wilson, Tim Mashado, Nathan Spinks, Jack Clements, Georgia du Plessis, Simon Thomas, Bridget Monaghan, Ashley Spinks, Jennifer Dawes, Kasey Teakle and Mark Sheppard (coach).

12s trophy winners: Janine Thomas (Inverloch junior co-ordinator), Jack Clements, Simon Thomas, Zac Norman, Lawrence Barbuto, Oliver Read, Kaitlyn McCluskey, Rebekkah Command, Anna Wilton, Alison Dawes, Ashley Spinks and Barry Zimmerman (president of Inverloch Tennis Club).

10s trophy winners: Harry McInnes, Jackie Carr, Alison Dawes, Rebecca Woods, Ben Grumley, Jack Clements and Elijah Cousins.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 47

Tennis classic lures 100 ONE hundred juniors entered the 10th Annual Finance Consulting and Accounting South Gippsland Junior Tennis Classic in Leongatha last week. Players contested 224 matches over three days at the magnificent Leongatha Tennis Club. Many Melbourne entrants were amazed by the first class facility. Major sponsor, Finance Consulting and Accounting, supported the competition for the tenth consecutive year. “Andy Forster and Jan Clark both put a very strong emphasis on helping the youth of South Gippsland in their sporting pursuits,” tournament organiser, Mark Sheppard said. “McDonalds again assisted with sponsorship and generously give of themselves to help promote these events. “ Leongatha Tennis Club president Frank Dekker was in fine form, organising the barbecue every day and satisfying the appetites of young players. “Frank is a very hands-on president and relishes the interaction with the younger members of the club,” he said.

Results

18 and Under boys singles : Brodie Wyatt d Nathan Spinks 8/4. 18 and Under boys doubles : Nathan Spinks/ James Monaghan (12) d Brodie Wyatt/ Craig Brown (7). 18 and Under boys consolation singles: Phillip Williams d Craig Brown 7/6. 18 and Under girls singles: Jess Gleeson (24) d Kate Appleyard (22). 18 and Under girls doubles: Jess and Airlie Gleeson d Telese Lane/Kate Appleyard 8/6. 18 and Under girls consolation singles: Isabella Wooley (14). 18 and Under mixed doubles: Nathan Spinks/Jess Gleeson d Wade Aitken/Kate Appleyard 8/1. 16 and Under boys singles: Sam Wilson d Nathan Spinks 8/6. 16 and Under boys doubles : Justin Krohn/Sam Wilson d Keiran Watkins/James Monaghan 8/5. 16 and Under boys consolation singles: Simon Thomas d Phil Williams 6/3. 16 and Under girls singles: Jennifer Dawes d Ashley Spinks 8/6. 16 and Under girls doubles: Jennifer Dawes/Ashley Spinks d Emily Wilson/ Georgia DuPlessis 8/3. 16 and Under

Fine style: Justin Krohn reaches high to serve.

girls consolation singles: Telese Lane d Bridget Monaghan 8/5. 16 and Under mixed doubles: Sam and Emily Wilson d Nathan and Ashley Spinks 6/4. 14 and Under boys singles : Sam Wilson d Nathan Spinks 8/1. 14 and Under boys doubles: Nathan Spinks/ Sam Wilson d Simon Thomas/Jack Clements 8/2. 14 and Under girls singles: Ashley Spinks d Jennifer Dawes 8/6. 14 and Under girls doubles : Jennifer Dawes/Ashley Spinks d Georgia du Plessis/Airley Gleeson 8/7. 14 and Under girls consolation singles: Kirstern McCoy d Bridget Monaghan 6/0. 14 and Under mixed doubles: Nathan and Ashley Spinks d Michael and Kirsten McCoy 7/5. 12 and Under boys singles: Simon Thomas d Mitchell Wilson 8/6. 12 and Under boys doubles: Jack Clements/ Simon Thomas d Samuel and Alexander Browne 6/2. 12 and Under boys consolation singles: Vinnie Monaghan d Jamie Westaway 6/1. 12 and Under girls singles: Bridget Monaghan (24) d Phillipa Littlejohn (18). 12 and Under girls doubles : Bridget Monaghan/Courtney Westaway d Phillipa Littlejohn/Sophie Scott 6/2. 12 and Under girls consolation singles : Madison Wright (15). 12 and Under mixed doubles: Simon Thomas/Bridget Monaghan d Julian Paterson/Sophie Thomas 6/1. 10 and Under boys singles: Jack Clements d Flyn Anderson 8/7. 10 and Under boys doubles: Jack Clements/ Elijah Cousins d Vinnie Monaghan/Flyn Anderson 8/4. 10 and Under boys consolation singles: Toby Heisler d Anthony Polato 6/4. 10 and Under girls singles : Madison Wright d Millie Thomas 18/13. 10 and Under girls doubles: Millie Thomas/Rebecca Woods d Evie Dekker/Madison Wright 8/0.

Nice work: 10 and Under winners: Front: Flynn Anderson, Madison Wright, Millie Thomas and Evie Dekker.

18 and Under winners: coach Mark Sheppard, James Monaghan, Airlie Gleeson, Kate Appleyard, Brodie Wyatt, Jessica Gleeson and Nathan Spinks.

Trophy bearers: 16 and Under winners. Front: coach Annette Sheppard, Emily Wilson, Simon Thomas and Ashley Spinks. Back: James Monaghan, Justin Krohn, Keiran Watkins, Georgia du Plessis, Jennifer Dawes, Sam Wilson and Nathan Spinks.

12 and Under winners: Front: Simon Thomas, Jack Clements, Lawrence Barbuto, Vinnie Monaghan and Mitchell Wilson. Back: Courtney Westaway, Bridget Monaghan, Alexander Browne, Samuel Browne, Julian Paterson, Phillipa Littlejohn, Madison Wright and Sophie Thomas.

Take that: James Monaghan returns in a 16 and Under doubles match.

14 and Under winners: coach Mark Sheppard, Ashley Spinks, Jennifer Dawes, Jack Clements, Simon Thomas, Sam Wilson, Ashley Spinks and coach Annette Sheppard.

PAGE 48 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Foster

Woorayl LAST Saturday the new owners of the Opal Motel sponsored our stroke day. The winner of A Grade was Ben Fitzpatrick with a net 65, who I believe hit it all over the course. B Grade and best score of the day went to Caine Salmon with a net 62, and C Grade went to the ever-popular Bob Hughes with a 69 net, which was also the day’s CCR. Balls went to D. Lim, M. Wilson, G. McKinnon, B. Hogan, I. Balfour, C. James, G. Salmon and B. Fiek. Nearest the pin went to B. Robjant and B. Hogan. Everyone has their tales of woe, however one player four putted the seventh hole from about 120cm. Unfortunately it was me, must stop watching Ed Poole. The ladies winner was Pat Harvey with a great net 64, with balls going to S. Wakeﬁeld and J. Dick on a countback. Only one ladies’ nearest the pin went off and that went to Di O’Connor on the 17th hole. Thursday’s bar voucher again went to Ben Fitzpatrick with 41 points. When will he go back to school? Next Saturday we will play a par event sponsored by our old stalwart, Frank Schwarz. It will also be the seventh round of the men’s and ladies’ summer trophies.

Talking point: Matt Wilson, Max Wood and Ian Balfour discuss the round on the ﬁrst hole at Woorayl Golf Club on Saturday.

Leongatha TWO players appeared to be playing a different course to the rest of the 76-strong ﬁeld. John Eabry won A Grade and the medal with a slashing 80-17-63, but still needed to survive a countback to win the monthly medal. Philip du Plessis scored a great 87-24-63 to match John’s score, but settled for a win in B Grade. C Grade winner, Bruce Cathie, had the next best score of 70, underlining the merits of John and Philip. Michael Thomas had the best gross of 76, Dave Bethune was best with the putter with 26 putts on super greens, Tim McCarthy won nearest the pin and pro-pin went to Michael Thomas. Thanks to our monthly medal sponsor, Colin Watson Holden. Ball winners: J. Smith, D. Hanna, D. Clemann 71; M. Thomas, D. Bethune, S. Connors 72; I. Murchie, T. McCarthy 73; G. Burt,

J. Housey, B. Attwood, J. Coulter, K. Wardle 74; G. Morrison, R. Thurston, T. Bruinewoud 75. Scores were hotter than the temperature on Tuesday with Dale Comrie notching 41 points in A Grade and J. Baron clinching 46 in C Grade off a very temporary 36 handicap. Jim Arnott played it much cooler by taking out B Grade on 35 points. P. Baron won nearest the pin on the 14th and P. Grey from Kooringal won on the 16th hole. Ball winners: P. Grey 41, T. O’Connor 39, K. Gardner 38, N. Mackenzie 37, G. Hines 36, P. Thurston, P. Walsh, I. Barlow, B. Stevens 35; C. Manley, N. Savino, K. Finney, D. Bethune 34; B. Attwood 33, A. Edney 32. Dale Comrie lost a shot for his Tuesday round, but that was no setback as he produced another excellent round of 40 points to win A Grade on Thursday. Jack Curtis took B Grade on 39, while Keith

Finney fired an exceptional 42 points to win C Grade. Next time around Keith you will be in B Grade. Geoff McDonald won nearest the pin on the 14th hole and Nic Cairns on the 16th. Ball winners: K. Castwood 39, G. McDonald, I. Murchie, R. Cathie, P. McNutt 38; N. Wright, J. Lowell, T. Purdy 37; S. Connors, N. Smith, R. Hayes, J. Fraser 36; G. Fawcett, M. Edwards, J. Gilder 35. The January round of the Sunday nine hole competition was played in hot weather, therefore most of the players in nine teams hit off early. The results were very close, with two teams, The Floggers and The Sharks, finishing equal on 140 points. A countback to the fifth score was needed, and The Floggers won. In third place was 7-Up on 143½, and in fourth place was the All But One team with 146. Coral Gray scored the ladies best gross on 48, while Michael

Thomas had 37 to have the men’s best gross. The best net for the ladies was won by Jean Chaplin with 56-16½-33½. Geoff Maher scored the men’s best net with 44-10½-33½. The next round will be played on February 7.

Ladies ON January 6 the weather was great for golf and a good ﬁeld of 29 ladies competed in the stableford competition. Pins were well back but that did not stop four ladies lowering their handicaps. Sharyn Rayson was the A Grade winner with 35 points. Coral Gray continued her great form of 2009 in winning B Grade with 39 points, breaking her handicap as well. Marion Chalmers starred in C Grade scoring 39 points to win, break her handicap and collected the nearest the pin trophy as well. Down the line balls went to Ann Gibson 38, Loris Clark 37, Jean Chaplin, Libby See-

beck and Gwen Chapman all 36, Trish Owen and Wendy Surman, 34. Wednesday, December 30 the ladies played a stableford event. A Grade winner was Sharon Rayson with a great score of 41 points. B Grade winner was Jan Birrell 41 points. Both these ladies broke their handicaps. Down the line balls: K. Hogan 37 points, Glenys McRobert 37 (both also broke their handicap), T. Owen 36, J. Howson 36 and T. West 36. Nearest the pin: was K. Hogan. A larger ﬁeld than normal contested the Saturday event, many making the most of the holiday season. The winner was K. Hogan 39 points.. Down the line balls: M. Williams 38 points, J. Baron 35, A. Madigan 35 and T. West 34. Nearest the pin: W. Surman.

Meeniyan ladies

Well done: Grace Benson had a hole in one and won the monthly medal at Meeniyan last week.

Mirboo North THERE were 29 starters for the stableford event on Thursday, January 7. The CCR was 69. A Grade winner was Peter Gilpin (27) 47. Down the lineballs: Joe Kus (12) 43, Tom Traill (9) 40, Peter Draper (11) 40, Graham Watson (6) 39 countback. Birdies: Ron Funnell 6th, Peter Chapman 16th, Peter Draper 6th, Jeff Hughes 13th. Eagle: Phil Garlick 1st. A 4BBB event was played on Saturday January 9. CCR was 69, with 32 starters. Winners: Nigel Bracecamp (22) and Terry Bradshaw (8), 47 points. Down the line: Peter Draper and Simon Hill Smith 47 points; Mal Payne and Peter Sanderson 46 points. Nearest the pin: 4th Nigel Bracecamp, 6th Joe Kus, 13th Terry Bradshaw, 16th Stan Evison. Pro pin: 4th Nigel Bracecamp, 2nd shot 1st hole R. Matthews. Birdies: 13th T. Bradshaw, 6th R. Pentland, J. Kus and B. Randall, 16th Doug Taylor.

Welshpool

TUESDAY’S barbecue nine hole event winner was David Bligh with 22 points. Balls down the line: Don Harris 20, Jim Roberts 19 on countback Joe Paynting. Nearest the pin: 8th Jim Roberts. Achiever’s award: R. Barry on countback Merv Lowe and R. Norton. Brian MacPherson 18, Charlie Fletcher and Ken Hallett 17, Kenny Hobbs and Stan Walker 16, Keith Lear, Pappy Pope, Len Wood, Peter Westaway and Pat Carroll all 15. Pub club points: Pier Port 13.20, Port Albert 13.83, Welshpool 14.33, Toora 16.75. Friday’s chicken run was won by Ken Hallett 22 points. Balls down the line: Pappy Pope 20, Peter Westaway 19, Merv Lowe 17 on countback Bob Wiggins. Nearest the pin: 6th Ken Hallett. Pat Carroll, Keith Lear and Gwen Watts all 16, Brian MacPherson 15, Chris Bailey, Kay Mines, Trish Latch and Stan Walker all 14. Len Wood, Kenny Hobbs and Harry Mines 13. Saturday’s nine hole stableford winner: Jeanette Swann 19 points. Balls down the line: Brian MacPherson 17 on countback Alan Hayes. Other scores Pat Carroll 15, Len Wood 13. Sunday’s mixed 4BBB sponsored by Yarram Retravision. Winners: Joe Paynting and Karen Barwick 47 points. Next week: stroke monthly medal. Note: Saturday January 16 18 hole stroke dinner night. BYO barbecue. See notice board.

THE monthly medal round was just underway when every golfer’s dream shot took place for Grace Benson on the second hole last Wednesday. Having used her three wood, Grace had her drive and said to playing partner Irene Holm she was happy with that hit and didn’t want it back. We wandered up near the green when Irene said the ball may be in the hole as it wasn’t to be seen on the green or at the back. Grace in her haste to check the hole jumped off her bike and sprinted to have a look, and there it was in the hole. After much excitement Grace was able to

keep her game together and came in with a fantastic 88 off the stick to win the monthly medal with a lovely 60 net. Her handicap will now be about 23. Runner-up on the day was Bev Shatten with 71 net on a countback from Gwen Heppell. Over the past two weeks we have played stableford. December 23 Grace Benson won with 36 points and Dot Christie was the runner-up with 35 points. On December 30 Dot Christie won with 36 points and Sue Hoskin was the runner-up with 35 points.

Golfing honour for Lois A WOMAN who has dedicated many years of voluntary service to the Woorayl Golf Club has received the club’s highest honour. Lois Young was made a life member of the club, recognising her contribution to the administration of the club since the 1970s. She is currently serving her third term as ladies president. “It was a surprise and certainly an honour to be put in that class,” Lois said. To her credit, she volunteered for four years as ladies secretary (1975-76 and 1986-87), two years as ladies captain (1982-1983) and four years as ladies president (1991-92 and 2000-2001). Active in club catering and other roles, Lois has served on the club’s ladies committee since the midseventies. She was also president of the South Gippsland District Ladies Golf Association in 1996. Husband Graham is also a life member of Woorayl and inspired his wife to

take up the sport when their children were at school. “Woorayl is a very friendly club and it’s a great little community. We all

play together and socialise together. I think very highly of the Woorayl Golf Club,”

SUNDAY, January 10 – Banksia Lodge Charity Day, Foster Pharmacy and Cahill, McLaughlin and Croft trophies. Winners men’s: Norm Cooper/Ben Cooper/Elias Haddad (7⅝) 57⅛ net. Mixed: Jim Parry/Robin Taylor/Norma McGrath (10½) 59½ net. Ladies: Margaret Blake/Merle Barham/Mary Ellis (14) 66 net. Down the line balls: Peter Gilder/D. Dalton/ Col Pulham (8⅔) 58⅓ net. Richard Cahill/Michael Cahill/Garry Clavarino (6½) 60½ net. Nearest the pin: fourth Barbara Warren and Peter Gilder, sixth Gale Tyers and Fred Tyers, 13th Merle Barham and Athol McGrath, 15th Gale Tyers and Jim Parry, 17th Sheron Cripps and Gary Phelan. A fantastic day was had by all. $1300 was raised for PCAC - Banksia Lodge Auxiliary. Saturday, January 9 Medal Day, Robin Taylor trophy. Medal: Murdoch Menzies (19) 64 net. Winner A Grade: Greg Cox (12) 68 net. Winner B Grade: Murdoch Menzies (19) 64 net. Scratch A Grade: James Freeman 77. Scratch B Grade: Murdoch Menzies 83. Down the line balls: Fred Tyers (13) 70 net, Lloyd McKenzie (9) 70 net, Dave Hutchinson (12) 71 net, James Freeman (6) 71 net and Noel Black (6) 72 net countback. Nearest the pin: fourth Col Pulham, sixth Dave Hutchinson, 13th Dave Hutchinson, 15th Lloyd McKenzie and 17th Noel Black. Putting: Phil Harris 27 putts. Money hole: Noel Black. Ladies Saturday, January 9, stroke, ﬁrst round aggregate winners: Gale Tyers (11) 75 net. Down the line balls: Pam Witheridge (27) 78 net. Nearest the pin: 13th Gale Tyers, 17th Gale Tyers. Money hole: Ineke de Graaf. Friday, January 8 Twilight stableford. winner: Bruce Knee (16) 19 points countback. Down the line balls: Lloyd McKenzie (9)

19 points, Bill Fuller (29) 19 points. Nearest the pin: 13th Denham Grierson, sixth Lester Rootsey. Thursday, January 7, stableford winner: Peter Dight (6) 44 points. Down the line balls: Athol McGrath (15) 43 points, Neil Chandler (21) 39 points Eagle: fourth Peter Dight, Wednesday, January 6, ladies summer competition, stableford winner A Grade: Sheron Cripps (24) 36 points. Winner B Grade: Frances McGlead (33) 41 points. Down the line balls: Marlene Ellis (27) 36 points, Kaylene Morris (27) 35 points, Wilma Scheerle (16) 34 points. Nearest the pin: 6th Frances McGlead, 17th Kaylene Morris. Tuesday, January 5, par winner: Larry Giddy (17) +9. Down the line balls: Peter Dight (7) +5, Noel Black (7) +4, John Mathers (14) +3. Nearest the pin: sixth Peter Dight. Eagle 12th: Phil Harris. Coming events Tuesday 12 – stableford. Wednesday 13 – ladies summer competition - stableford. Thursday 14 - stableford. Friday 15 - twilight stableford. Saturday 16 - stableford – ﬁrst round Stig Nelander trophy. Saturday, January 2 –-stableford. Foster v Sandy Point/ Waratah Bay Challenge, Ray Stewart trophy. Foster 35.06 points d Sandy Point/ Waratah Bay 33.50 points. Winner Foster: Noel Black (7) 43 points on countback. Winner SP/Waratah Bay: Greg Paine (18) 42 points. Ladies Saturday, January 2 - stableford winner: Ineke de Graaf (19) 37 points. Friday, January 1, twilight stableford winner: Fred Tyers 24 points. Thursday, December 31, stableford winner: Neville Thompson (9) 40 points. Wednesday, December 30, ladies summer competition, stableford winner: Gale Tyers (11) 35 points. Tuesday, December 29, stableford winner: Norm Cooper (12) 42 points.

Lois said.

Woorayl junior golf tournament The ﬁrst junior tournament for 2010 for the South Gippsland Junior Golf Committee, will be played at Woorayl Golf Club on Sunday, January 17.

Rare feat: Lois Young shows off her life membership of Woorayl Golf Club, with husband Graham.

The tournament is open to junior boys and girls (under 21 years). Hit off commences at 9am and concludes at 10am. Entry fee is $5 for all players. There is also an event for those players without a handicap. The ‘Calloway’ system of handicapping will be used for the players competing without a handicap. A separate competition will be held for any parent of a child wishing to play. Entry forms are available at all South Gippsland Golf Clubs, and can be forwarded to Mr. Geoff McKinnon P.O. Box

77, Leongatha, 3953. Telephone 5662 4187.

So close: Tim Jans nudges his ball close to the ﬁfth hole at Woorayl.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 49

Bowls is back at Leongatha A HAPPY new year to all, as again we get down to business after the Christmas / new year break.

According to the records at Leongatha club, plenty of bowling activity continued over the break, with a number of our members making teams and visitations to other clubs. The monthly triples held on December 23 again saw a near full ﬁeld from around the South Gippsland area in battle, with the winners on the day on plus 39, R. Kee, Alan Easterbrook and David Roberts. Runners-up, the Leongatha combination of Bill Rahilly, Harry Forrester and Alan Rayson on plus 19. The best last game winners saw a tie between Andy Robertson, Korumburra’s team, with John Turner’s Leongatha team. Sponsors for the day were Nikolina’s Florist and Gifts of Leongatha, and the club thanks them for their valued support. December 30 saw 18 players take to the greens in triples, with the winners on one win plus 11 being M. Blackburn, F. Filomeno and R. Oram, while the runners-up on one win plus eight, L. Lancaster, R. Cook and Joyce Fuller. Sponsors for the day were South Gippsland Insurance.

January 2 saw 16 players take part in a pairs event. The winners on two wins plus six (always wanting the limelight) the one and only Frank Filomeno and Peter Bolge, with the runners-up on one win plus 15, M. Blackburn and R. Symons. Again the sponsors were South Gippsland Insurance, and the club thanks them for their valued support. January 6 saw 20 players again in a pairs event, and the winners on plus 36 F. Filomeno and Ron Cook. However my spies tell me that it was Ron who carried Frank on this occasion, with the runners-up being P. Bolge and John Turner on plus 20. Sponsors for the day were Considine & Johnson of Leongatha Master Builders, and the club thanks them for their valued support. Saturday, January 9 only six bowlers ventured out into the heat, with two teams doing battle. Team A, David Bee, Bev Watt and Ron Symons against team B, R. Jackson, Les Wilson and Tas Haywood, with the winners Team A by two shots. Sunday, January 10 saw a full ﬁeld take part in the club’s Nicholson pairs. This event is held around this time each year in memory of one of the club’s past stalwarts, Rod Nicholson. This is a keenly contested event.

This year’s results were: Winners Pam and Peter Kennedy, Leongatha, three wins plus 18; 2nd place Colin Hair / Alan Hanks, Meeniyan, three wins plus 13; 3rd place Paul Angus’ team, Monbulk, three wins plus nine; 4th place Mike Arnold / Steve Collins, Thorpdale, two wins plus draw. Best last game Andy and Robyn Dennis, San Remo / Inverloch, plus 13. Sponsors for the day were C. and B. Watt, Edney’s Leongatha, Leongatha Refrigeration and the Nicholson family. The club sincerely thanks all the sponsors, a special thanks to the Nicholson family. It was a great day of bowls supported by a good presence of keen spectators. To those involved in the catering for this event, a big thank you for a job well done. Reminders: Ladies pennant restarts on January 12 with Division 1 ladies at home to Lang Lang, while Division 3 travel to Inverloch. Men’s pennant restarts on January 23 with Division 1 at home to Phillip Island, while Division 2 travel to Lang Lang, and Division 3 to Phillip Island to battle against Phillip Island White. Also don’t forget the Kitty Club’s next tea night will be on Friday, February 5 at 6pm. It’s a great night, so be sure you mark this in your diaries.

Meeniyan OUR first report for the new year begins with a very busy schedule. Tuesday and Wednesday nights were the opening of our new corporate bowls season, with 12 teams competing on each night. Tuesday winners were Windmill Ag 1, with Triple Trouble runners-up. Thanks to sponsors Nu-Mix. Wednesday winners were Mitre 10, with MDU runnersup. Thanks to sponsor Cootamundra Nursery. Social bowls on Wednesday, January 6 was won by Bob Graeme and Morrie Parry from a field of 13. Bob Wylie won the lucky draw. Thursday, January 7 was the first of our monthly triples for 2010. Thanks to sponsors Morrison Jefferis & Associates, Accountants of Leongatha. Winners were George Kirk, Marco Gannccherihi and Jack Crofts (Foster), with Russell Trotman, Jeff Pendergast and Robert Young (Leongatha) runners-up. On Sunday our ladies singles final was played, with Poppy Terrill-Graeme coming out the winner against Shirley Heywood. We wish her well in the association event. Ladies pennant resumed this Tuesday with ones at home to San Remo and threes away to Toora. Next week ones are away to Foster and threes are home to Inverloch in the second last match for the season. Affiliated Saturday begins on January 23 with twos home to San Remo, fours away to Wonthaggi and fives away to San Remo. We are saddened that one of club stalwarts, Des Tuff, passed away last week. Des joined Meeniyan Bowling Club in 1971 and retired from bowls in 2001. He instituted our odd bods tournament, and was the sponsor of this popular event.

Korumburra

Winners: sponsor Col Watt with Peter and Pam Kennedy.

Runners-up: sponsor Edneys Leongatha representative Ian Marshman, Colin Hair and Allan Hanks.

Inverloch ladies I HEARD on the grapevine, that at the last pennant match of last year, Division 3, who played at Corinella, were treated to a lovely lunch. Sadly our girls did not win this match. However our girls really enjoyed their lunch and the friendly atmosphere. Thanks to the Corinella girls. Tuesday, January 5 was the ﬁnal of the ladies club championship between Anne Tschiderer and Robyn Dennis. I have been told that this was a very good match, with Anne Tschiderer winning by about three shots. Congratulations to Anne and also to Robyn as runner-up. Wednesday, December 6 was a mixed social day with 38 bowlers taking to the greens. The weather was perfect and there were quite a few visitors. The winning team was G. Mitchell, Jim Gilﬁllan, Margaret Higgins (good to see Margaret back from up north for the summer) and Pam Sutcliffe. Runners-up were Bonnie Campbell, Gloria Growse, Joe Bonnici and Bev Kurrle. Good to see three visitors in the winning teams. Next Wednesday, January 13 will be ladies social bowls, whites please, and starting at 1pm. Wednesday, January 20, is monthly triples, sponsored by Baradene Interiors. Please put your name down for this enjoyable day.

THE club’s ﬁrst triples day for 2010 was another successful event. Many thanks to Burra Building Supplies and to the ANZ Bank for their sponsorship of the day. After three games, the winners on the day were BLG, the San Remo team of John Standeger, Jack Wylie and Graeme Wilde, with 17 shots. With four three game winners at day’s end, the winners were the ‘Burra men’s team of Ken Cecil, Andy Robertson and Bill Dilg with three plus 29 shots. The runners-up were the men’s team from Drouin, of John Leighton, Neal Jensz and Geoff Davey. The unlucky teams were Doug Berryman’s Mirboo North team with 22 shots and John Vickerman’s Warragul team with 20 shots. The rafﬂe draw went to Ross P. Lomagno, Bruce Peters, Ray Paynting, Greg Lewis and Les Eastman. Last Saturday’s winners were Graham Brown, Andrew Seikman, and Maurie Reilly. On Wednesday, the ladies had 20 on the greens. After

two games there were two teams with two wins. Debbie Williams, Beryl Waycott and Lynette Robertson were the winners, with 17 ends. Margaret Brown, Margaret Claney, Beth MacKay and Beryl Clay had less ends. The men back on the greens on Thursday. The winners with three wins and 29 shots up were Ron Hutton and H. Paradiso. The drawn card went to Keith March, David Wanless and John Halliday. Due to the predicted ‘scorcher’ on Friday, the ladies re-scheduled their tournament to April 16. The ladies pennant will see the Division 2 ladies team home to Fish Creek, whilst the Division 3 ladies have the bye. The men’s pennant starts back on Jan 23. Saturday’s winners were Ross P. Lomagno, John Elstub and Brian Pepperell, with two wins 17 shots. Dates to remember: this Friday night will be our counter tea night. The men’s tournament will be played on January 24, mixed fours entries also pairs and fours days.

Tarwin Lower BAREFOOT bowls resumed last week and was well attended by members and visitors alike. There were no upset results and the top seven teams are jostling for the top spot with the ‘Three Tenors’ leading the way. Bronwyn Ellen won the meat tray and Andy Gymer the weekly whinger’s award. The new green is progressing very well and is improving every week thanks to all the helpers. Twilight bowls will start again this Friday, the ﬁrst one for the season Names in by 3.30 pm for a 4pm start.This will be followed by a sausage sizzle. The monthly dinner will be held on January 23 with a distinctly Aussie menu. Get your names in early. Ladies pennant re-commences this Tuesday at home to Loch. Congratulation to Bev Martin on her recent birthday.

Tuesday in Inverloch: Ron Kee and Kevin McIntosh (both from Inverloch) were watching the club’s ladies ﬁnal. Right Anne Tschiderer: competes in the Inverloch club ladies singles ﬁnal, which she won.

Fish Creek

Final spectators: Jill Bateman and Dorothy McIntosh (both from Inverloch) watch the ladies battle it out.

Total concentration: runner-up Robyn Dennis bowls in the ﬁnal.

FISH CREEK have had their tournament over four days and and it was successful. Winners on each day were: Day 1: Men’s fours - Mick Dallon (skip), Greg Lewis, Kevin Queale and Jack Irvine. Sponsors were Retravision and Les and Beryl Jones Gravel. Day 2: Mixed fours - Keith Clark (skip), Don Matthews, Rod de Fraga and Lyn Harper. Sponsor Jackson & Lawry. Day 3: Men’s triples -

George Kirk (skip), Terry Callahan and Ray Wheeler. Sponsors Windmill Ag and Monacellars. Day 4: Mixed triples - Ted Kealey (skip), Faye McKenzie and Jack Lindeman. Sponsors Paul Beck and SEG. Because of the impending temperature of 41 degrees on Monday the proposed Paul Clarke day was cancelled. The ladies start their pennant season this week and they play Inverloch at home.

PAGE 50 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Aquathon an event for all THE Cape Aquathon is one of those iconic events on the local sporting calendar, with competitors from across the state coming to the region. This year’s event will be held on Sunday, January 17 at 10am. The Cape Aquathon is a great fun community fitness event involving both swimming and running. The aquathon was first held in 1997 and has quickly grown into one of the premier endurance events in the area. It is hugely popular with the local community and competitors from across the state. One of the only events that offers the challenge of battling the waves on an open water 400m surf swim, it is followed by a 3.5km run around Cape Paterson. The Cape Aquathon is the opening race in the Bass Coast series (followed by the Channel Challenge on January 30 and the Cowes Classic on February 13) and points gained at the Aquathon are counted in the series tally. Entry is open to all, with a minimum age of 14 years, and teams are welcome. Categories include Juniors (1417), Seniors (18-39), Masters (40-49), Veterans (50+) and Teams (male, female and mixed) with prizes for both female and male winners in each category. There are also numerous spot prizes randomly drawn from the pool of competitors. The Cape Aquathon is organised and run by the Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club, which is a volunteer organisation that provides surf lifesaving services to the Cape Paterson surf beach from the end of November until Easter each year. Stay the day or even come for the weekend and enjoy the beautiful Cape Paterson coastline with its magnificent beaches, excellent surfing, swimming, and snorkelling. Whether you are a first timer wanting a fun fitness event, to an aspiring athlete or at the elite level, and anywhere in between, the Aquathon is a great event for you. For further information please visit the website aquathon.cpslsc.org.au or email aquathon@cpslsc.org.au.

Above and right: the Nippers program gives kids the opportunity to learn some lifesaving skills and have fun at the same time.

Ready to race: the Cape Aquathon draws competitors from across the state. The running and swimming event caters for both the casual and elite athlete.

Nippers is on at Cape THE Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club Nipper program is on again. Attendance at the Nippers program is well up on previous years, with more than 90 Nippers and life savers enjoying the water on quite a chilly ﬁrst session last Saturday. Support from the club members was sensational as always, with 16 of the club’s ﬁnest lifesavers putting their hands up for water safety. All the mums and dads were on hand to help and the kids had an absolute ball. On Sunday more nippers signed up and joined the enthusiastic group of kids. The Nipper program is a combination of games and skills-based learning in the surf. Nippers don’t learn to swim but to handle the waves in the surf; they also learn how to use boards and other equipment. It is a great fun learning environment that the Nippers love. What a great start to the year and the club’s 50th anniversary season.

400M SURF SWIM 3.5KM RUN BASS COAST SERIES - RACE 1 Sunday 17th January 2010 10am Start Entries/info: aquathon.cpslsc.org.au

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 51

Ride on Wonthaggi SEVENTY riders participated in the Wonthaggi Pony Club’s annual three-day camp last week.

Pony camp: Kyah Britt (Wonthaggi Pony Club) learning dressage on day one.

Dressage training: Phoebe Toohey (Wonthaggi Pony Club) learning last Tuesday.

They came from as far away as Swifts Creek to receive instruction in dressage, show jumping and cross country. Wonthaggi Pony Club District Commissioner Ann Claessen said they employed level one instructors for the camp. “A lot of parents came to me and said they couldn’t believe how much their kids had learnt in three days,” she said. “It was so successful we are even thinking we might run another one over Easter.” The camp is also a wonderful social event for participants. Money raised from the camp will be invested in the grounds to ﬁnish fencing the new arena and will go towards the cross country course. New members are always welcome to join the pony club.

First day: Jessica Bolding (Wonthaggi Pony Club) was raring to go at the three day camp.

Adult riders: Michelle Debenham (Kardella), Leanne McLean (Kardella), Kris Ireland (Bena) and Jill Marvin (Kardella).

Dumbalk ready for draft By Matt Dunn

THE Dumbalk community is gearing up for the biggest event on its sporting and social calendar, the annual campdraft.

Ready to ride: local campdraft competitor Sarah Hengstberger shows her stuff on Norman. Sarah will be one of more than a hundred competitors at Dumbalk next month.

While the campdraft only started last year, it was such a success that it’s sure to continue for many years to come. The Dumbalk community is known for its willingness to come together and pitch in, and the organisation of the campdraft is no exception. While the Tarwin Valley Campdraft Club is the driving force behind the three day event, just about every other community group in town has a hand in it too. Beginning on the evening of Friday, February 26, and running until Sunday, February 28, the campdraft will see more than 900 individual events. “The real activity will be Saturday and Sunday night. I wouldn’t have a clue how many people we had last year but it was a terriﬁc crowd,” Tarwin Valley Campdraft Club president Ross Irvin said. “It’ll be similar this year, with a small auction on the Saturday night to raise funds for the club to continue building at the venue. The bar will be run by the MDU Cricket Club and the meals will be done by the MDU Football Club, which is good for the community.” Ross said the Dumbalk community was a small one that was happy to pitch in. “Pretty well everyone’s involved in some way,” he said. The village market will also be operating on the Saturday of the campdraft. Children from the age of eight are eligible to compete in the campdraft. Dumbalk will also host the Gippsland Campdraft Association Championship on April 17. For more details on the campdraft call Heather Walker on 0418 564 157.

Taking a break: Tegan Murley and Dean Thomas (Wonthaggi Pony Club) lead the horse to shade.

• JUNIOR COUNTRY WEEK BAIRNSDALE JANUARY 4-8

LDCA juniors excel at Country Week Continued from page 53. Sale Maffra batted and made 168 all out, Daniel Gordon 3/27, Eli Richards 3/23 and Ben Foon 2/20. Leongatha batted all out for 150 Ryan Olden 36, Eli Richards 38.Thomas Wyatt 21. Game 4 v Bairnsdale at Paynesville Traralgon batted ﬁrst made 8/114 off 50 overs Cam Harris 3/14, Daniel Gordon 2/17. Leongatha batted all out 123 off 33 overs Ryan Olden 36, Daniel Gordon 20. Traralgon batted second time 3/44 off 17 overs. Game 5 v Warragul at Lucknow Warragul batted ﬁrst after being 6/40 made 94 all out off 36 overs, Eli Richards 4/7 off six overs, Jake Cochrane 2/12 . Leongatha batted all out 118 off 33 overs, Thomas Wyatt 34, Nathan Allen 15. Warragul batted a second time and were 9/56 off 31 overs Jake Cochrane 3/11 off 7 overs, Beau Van Agtmaal 2/6. Under 14s Game 1

LDCA v Traralgon at Wy Yung. Traralgon batted first all out for 90 off 36 overs, Jakeb Thomas 5/9 off eight overs. Aswin Raveendran 2/16. Leongatha batted and made 4/149 off 40 overs, Michael Manteit 71 not out put on 84 runs with Daniel Turton 11 not out, taking the score from 4/65 to 4/149. James Honeysett made 17 and Jarryd Black 19. Game 2 v Central Gippsland at Wy Yung Central batted first making 6/109 off 40 overs. Alex Officer 2/21 and Brodie Johnston 2/12. Leongatha batted making 8/124 off 40 overs, Michael Manteit 26, but it was seventh wicket partnership of 22 between Daniel Turton and Darby Walker and eighth wicket partnership of 29 by Daniel Turton 25, not out and Pierre Dunlevie 11, who got Leongatha over the line. It was great batting by three 12-year-olds. Game 3 v Sale Maffra at Lindenow

Leongatha batted first and were all out for 96, Michael Manteit 22 and Brok Davidson 24. Sale Maffra batted and made 6/162 Jakeb Thomas 2/20 off 8 overs and Jarryd Black 1/8 off five overs. Game 4 v Bairnsdale at Paynesville Traralgon batted first and made 8/176 off 40 overs Jakeb Thomas 2/34, Pierre Dunlevie 2/21 and Brok Davidson 2/18. Leongatha batted and were 4/195 off 40 overs, Michael Manteit 71, Jarryd Black 19, James Honeysett 22, Daniel Turton 18 not out, and Jai Prain nine not out getting the winning runs. Game 5 v Warragul at Lucknow Leongatha batted first making 9/194 off 40 overs with Michael Manteit making a great 107, Brok Davidson 21 and Brodie Johnston 34 Warragul batted all out 158 off 35 overs Jai Prain 4/10 off six overs, Tom Hamilton 2/25 and Jack Flanders 1/9.

PAGE 52 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

• A GRADE DIVISION 2

Poowong Loch smashes way to big win POOWONG Loch gave Inverloch an impossibly tough run chase, hitting a big 255 run total off 40 overs on the weekend. With Adderley (41), Nestor (62 not out) and Mitchell (57 not out) all doing their best to push the run rate along, it was difficult for Inverloch to make any inroads. The exception, perhaps, was Tegg, who took 2/33. Inverloch batsmen Houston (45) and van Beek (32) and tailender Jackson (26 not out) were standout performers in a team that struggled for runs. Many of the Inverloch players couldn’t get beyond single figures. The devastating arms of Greaves, who ended the day with the superlative figures of 6/35, and Brain, who finished with 4/30, was always going to make it tough

for a team that looked wrong footed from the start. K O O N WA R R A Leongatha RSL fell nine runs short of victory in response to Fish Creek Tarwin’s total of 148. Norm Wilkins was in good form for Fish Creek, top scoring with 42 not out. Dankert was good with the bat and the ball, scoring 25 runs as an opener and claiming 2/12 when it was his turn to bowl. For Koony, Anderson was handy with the bat, scoring 23 not out, while Wise knocked up 30 runs before he was caught by Webster off the bowling of Rabbitt. MDU came agonisingly close to victory chasing a big 222 run total by Leongatha Town. Guided by Wayne Prosser, who was on ﬁre with the bat and would ﬁnish the day on 74 runs not out, MDU scored 219 by the end of the thrilling last over. Town specialist bowler Nathan Johnston made the

task tough for MDU, claiming the wickets of the first five six batsmen, the first three of which he clean bowled. WONTHAGGI Miners fell short in its run chase of Phillip Island’s 181 on the weekend. The Island’s Murphy (50), Viljoen (39) and Wilson (46 not out) were all good with the bat, helping their team gain the ascendancy. Miners’ bowler Hammer was good with the ball, taking all but one of the Island wickets. He finished the innings with the impressive figures of 3/38. Team-mate Earl was a stand out performer with the bat, top scoring for the day with 59 runs, 40 runs of which came from boundaries.

A GRADE DIVISION 2 POOWONG/LOCH v INVERLOCH 1st Innings Poowong/Loch M. Adderley r.o. D. Houston .... 41 B. Hancock c. C. Williams

b. R. Tegg .............................. 27 R. Greaves lbw. b. R. Tegg......... 4 K. Nestor n.o. ........................... 62 P. Dyer b. J. Griffiths................28 B. Mitchell n.o. ........................57 Extras .......................................37 Total ....................................4/255 Bowling: J. Jackson 0/28, D. Houston 0/37, C. Williams 0/30, R. Tegg 2/33, R. Clark 0/37, N. Goodall 0/42, J. Griffiths 1/42. 1st Innings Inverloch S. Brayley c. C. McCurdy b. R. Greaves .........................17 T. Thornby c. P. Dyer b. R. Greaves ...........................1 R. Tegg c. P. Dyer b. R. Greaves ...........................1 D. Houston b. D. Brain ............45 R. Clark b. R. Greaves ...............4 C. Williams c. P. Dyer b. R. Greaves ...........................2 A. Brayley c. P. Dyer b. R. Greaves ...........................3 G. van Beek c. C. McCurdy b D. Brain ..............................32 J. Griffiths b. D. Brain................0 N. Goodall c. M. Adderley b. D. Brain ...............................6 J. Jackson n.o. ..........................24 Extras .......................................14 Total .......................................149 Bowling: A. Jenkins 0/15, R. Greves 6/35, B. Hancock 0/17, M. Lambe 0/30, K. Nestor 0/17, D. Brain 4/30.

FISH CREEK/TARWIN v KOONWARRA RSL 1st Innings Fish Creek/Tarwin G. Watkins c. W. Sperling b. B. Davison.........................18 J. Danckert c. G. Sperling b. B. Mosciprt .......................25 M. Watkins b. W. Sperling .........2 J. Shaw c. C. Wise b. W. Sperling........................20 J. Law stp. J. Tomada b. B. Moscript .........................0 N. Wilkins n.o. .........................42 G. Webster lbw. b. J. Kennedy .10 B. Anderson r.o. .........................4 M. Lynch n.o. .............................3 Extras .......................................24 Total ....................................7/148 Bowling: J. Peters 0/16, B. Davison 1/36, J. Kennedy 1/22, B. Moscript 2/23, W. Sperling 2/21, C. Wise 0/20. 1st Innings Koonwarra RSL C. Wise c. G. Webster b. S. Rabbitt...........................30 B. Moscript lbw. b. N. Wilkins ..6 S. Hughes b. J. Danckert ............8 S. Moore lbw. b. J. Danckert ......0 G. Sperlingstp. M. Lynch b. M. Watkins ........................16 B. Anderson n.o........................32 J. Tomada c&b. M. Watkins .....25 J. Peters stp. M. Lynch b. M. Watkins ..........................0 W. Sperling n.o...........................1 Extras .......................................22

Total ....................................7/140 Bowling: S. Rabbitt 1/30, N. Wilkins 1/8, N. Bergman 0/35, J. Danckert 2/12, M. Watkins 3/44. TOWN v MDU 1st Innings MDU S. Arnup b. N. Johnston ...........22 J. Sinclair b. N. Johnston .........14 C. Le Page b. N. Johnston ..........7 M. Le Page c. R. Templeton b. N. Johnston .........................9 C. Hoober lbw. b. N. Johnston ...4 A. Baillie c. R. Templeton b. S. McCallum .....................31 W. Prosser n.o. .........................74 M. Dower c. S. McCallum b. L. Bowman........................26 B. Spokes n.o. .......................... 11 Total ....................................7/219 Bowling: Not available. 1st Innings Town Total ....................................8/222 Bowling: M. Dower 2/35, C. Hoober 1/42, T. Harris 1/29, S. Browne 0/39, M. Le Page 2/33, S. Arnup 2/35. PHILLIP ISLAND v WONTHAGGI MINERS 1st Innings Wonthaggi Miners M. Wright c. A. Dimech b A. Matthews .......................21 L. Jones c. T. Hornsby b. A. Dimech ............................9 P. Hammer b. S. Kirton ..............3 L. Earl c. M. Wilson b. S. Boyack ..........................59

J. Armstrong c. S. Boyack b. A. Matthews ........................0 R. Jones lbw. b. A. Matthews .....0 B. Andrighetto n.o. ...................29 J. Burke c. A. Dimech b. C. Wilson.............................0 B. Foon b. C. Wilson..................0 J. Piasente n.o.............................1 Extras .......................................23 Total ....................................8/145 Bowling: S. Boyack 1/21, A. Dimech 1/24, S. Kirton 1/25, A. Matthews 3/18, M. Price 0/15, C. Wilson 2/21, T. Hornsby 0/13. 1st Innings Phillip Island K. Murphy b. P. Hammer .........50 C. Viljoen c&b. T. Walker ........39 T. Hornsby c. L. Jones b. P. Hammer ...........................1 M. Price c. T. Walker b. P. Hammer ...........................3 C. Wilson n.o............................26 M. Wilson n.o. ..........................46 Extras .......................................16 Total ....................................4/181 Bowling: J. Armstrong 0/37, R. Jones 0/33, T. Walker 1/18, P. Hammer 3/38, L. Jones 0/22, J. Piasente 0/26.

• B GRADE

Bailey bash sinks Glen Alvie KORUMBURRA’S Corey Bailey smashed his way to 67 not out, helping his team to an impressive total and an emphatic win over Glen Alvie. The middle order batsman hit nine boundaries and two over the fence on his way to the total. But Bailey was not alone in making the runs, with team-mate Paul Matheson knocking up 59 runs. Glen Alvie batted ﬁrst,

managing a respectable 139 runs off the 40 overs. But they had few big hitters in their arsenal of batsmen. Burra bowler Meade was devastating early, claiming the ﬁrst two openers for just one run. Glen Alvie had the shakes until Grant came along and steadied the ship with a handy 49. Hynes was also good with 39 runs. But the team was always going to fall short of the Burra’s big total. PHILLIP Island tailender Emmett Bourke helped steer

Leongatha District Cricket Association Umpire Appointments EVANS PETROLEUM Round 11 - Sunday, January 16 & 23 Home team Grade A1 Imperials Won Miners Won Workmens Nerrena Grade A2 Koonwarra RSL Phillip Island Inverloch

Away Team v Korumburra v Glen Alvie v Inverloch v OMK

Ground Umpire EC WFG W Turf Nerr

Luke Sullivan Les White B. Thomas Alan Jordan

v Poowong/Loch L Turf Daryl Sinclair v Town Cowes Alan Roberts v MDU I Turf Les White / Michael Heen-

an Fish Creek/Tarwin v Won Miners FCT Grade B Korumburra v Imperials Kor Lanyon OMK v Nerrena OMK Foster v Won Workmens John Lea Glen Alvie v Phillip Island GA Grade C Poowong/Loch v Koonwarra RSL Loch Won Miners v Fish Crk/Tarwin TBA Won W’mens v Town MR MDU v OMK Meen Grade D Imperials v Korumburra LV Wishart Town v Glen Alvie WC1 Koonwarra RSL v Inverloch Koon Nerrena v Phillip Island MM Grade E Poowong/Loch v Phillip Island Poow OMK v Won Miners KSC Foster v Town FSG MDU v Won W’mens Dum

Clive Salmon S t e p h e n Hank Boltong F G C Richard Poole Bob Allan Herb Roberts Ian Thomas Kevin Smith M a r i a n Rod Grylls TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA

his team to victory in its match against OMK on the weekend, finishing with 29 runs not out. The Island boys batted first and were looking shaky when OMK claimed Johnston and Doherty. Both fell for ducks off the bowling of Stephen King, who would finish the innings with the impressive figures of 4/29. But Bourke held his nerve and helped his team to 151 off the 40 overs. The total proved too much for OMK. The team made 145 in response. While King was good with the bat too, top scoring with 33, some of his team-mates fell cheaply. FOSTER fell 26 runs short its chase of 198 for a victory, when it met Imperials on the weekend. While Foster’s Gary Wagstaff was outstanding with the bat, scoring an aggressive 70 runs in the summer heat, there were no other big totals to be had. The team finished its innings with 6/162. DESPITE a not out

LDCA ladders A Grade Division 1 Won Workmens ...138.49 OMK.....................124.97 Imperials .............. 119.47 Wonthaggi Miners.81.97 Inverloch .................81.73 Korumburra .............81.64 Glen Alvie ..............66.39 Nerrena ....................59.08 A Grade Division 2 Phillip Island .......180.06 Poowong/Loch .....140.68 Koonwarra RSL ..132.67 Fish Creek/Tarwin ......... 107.06 Town .....................106.69 MDU .......................57.56 Wonthaggi Miners ...42.20 Inverloch .................24.68 B Grade Phillip Island........133.78 Nerrena ................ 115.41 Foster......................95.86 Won Workmens .....91.51 OMK .......................87.43

68 run stand by Nerrena’s Wayne Telfer, it was not enough for his team to set up victory against a big hitting Wonthaggi Workmens. Workmens bowlers Sartori and Sawyer helped cut down Telfer’s team-mates with a devastating spell of bowling. The pair would claim six wickets for just 43 runs – Sartori 3/5 and Sawyer 3/38. The Workmens batting line-up was also good, with 59 runs from Harvey and 36 from Britt. Aggression was the word for the day, and the pair would make their totals with 18 boundaries included.

B GRADE PHILLIP ISLAND v OMK 1st Innings Phillip Island R. Cleeland c. D. Jeffries b. N. Adams.............................1 J. Johnston r.o. T. Creed ...........22 R. Velardi c. J. Van Rooye b. T. Creed ...............................0 A. Manteit c. M. Walker b. T. Wyatt .............................26 E. Richards c. M. Walker b. S. King ..............................27 M. Cleary b. S. King ................ 11 D. Johnston lbw. b. S. King .......0 S. Docherty c. D. Jeffries b. S. King ................................0

Imperials .................86.63 Glen Alvie ...............84.31 Korumburra .............44.97 C Grade Town .....................124.03 OMK..................... 118.32 Koonwarra RSL ..105.90 Poowong/Loch .......98.28 MDU .......................97.18 Won Workmens .......73.08 Fish Creek/Tarwin ...71.17 Wonthaggi Miners ...54.24 D Grade Inverloch ..............123.72 Town .....................121.52 Nerrena ................ 112.07 Phillip Island........108.23 Korumburra .............95.72 Glen Alvie ...............56.44 Koonwarra RSL ......55.86 Imperials .................47.02 E Grade Phillip Island........123.57 Foster.................... 114.55 Poowong/Loch .....109.39 OMK.....................106.42 Won Workmens .......75.08 Wonthaggi Miners ...72.80 MDU .......................55.69 Town .......................34.94

J. Kleverkamp c. M. Hems b. T. Wyatt .............................16 E. Bourke n.o. ..........................29 Z. Brown n.o. .............................7 Extras .......................................12 Total ....................................9/151 Bowling: T. Creed 1/18, N. Adams 1/34, M. Hems 0/20, D. Jeffries 0/12, S. King 4/29, T. Wyatt 2/37. 1st Innings OMK J. Paterson c. S. Docherty b. R. Cleeland..........................0 S. King c. J. Johnston b. Z. Brown ...........................33 M. Walker lbw. b. R. Cleeland.........................12 J. Van Rooye b. R. Cleeland.......4 W. Dowell c&b. R. Velardi ......10 T. Wyatt c. E. Richards b. J. Johnston .........................12 T. Creed b. J. Kleverkamp........28 B. Nation c. Z. Brown b J. Kleverkamp ....................29 M. Hems c. R. Cleeland b. R. Velardi ............................3 D. Jeffries n.o. ............................5 N. Adams n.o..............................3 Extras .........................................6 Total ....................................9/145 Bowling: R. Cleeland 3/33, J. Kleverkamp 2/27, E. Richards 0/13, R. Velardi 2/26, J. Johnston 1/17, Z. Brown 1/24. FOSTER v IMPERIALS 1st Innings Foster R. Johnston c. T. Jans b. N. Slater ..............................6 P. Dower b. J. Forrester ............16 G. Wagstaff b. A. Degennaro ...70 M. Comben c. T. Jans b. J. Forrester.........................23 S. Chaseling r.o. T. Jans, J. Forrester...............................0 T. Garvey b. N. Slater .............. 11

B. Coates n.o. .............................4 S. Corrie n.o. ............................13 Extras .......................................19 Total ....................................6/162 Bowling: Not available. 1st Innings Imperials Total ....................................8/197 Bowling: J. Staley 0/44, D. Clearihan-Jervies 3/34, R. Johnston 1/7, B. Coates 1/52, P. Dower 2/23, S. Corrie 0/21. GLEN ALVIE v KORUMBURRA 1st Innings Glen Alvie S. Smith b. A. Meade .................0 J. Beasley b. A. Meade ...............1 D. Tiziani c. M. Loader b. M. Olden .............................4 G. Grant r.o. D. Dutchman .......49 M. Huitson c. C. Bailey b. L Williams .........................10 D. Hynes r.o. P. Green ..............39 M. Hill n.o. ..............................10 Extras .......................................24 Total ....................................6/137 Bowling: A. Meade 2/13, M. Olden 1/19, P. Matheson 0/30, L. Williams 1/15, S. Phillips 0/17, M. Loader 0/28, P. Green 0/6. 1st Innings Korumburra D. Dutchman c. S. Smith b. D. Tiziani...........................17 M. Olden b. J. Hales...................3 T. Allen b. S. Nippers ...............14 P. Matheson c. M. Hill b. J. Beasley ..........................59 L. Roberts b. S. Nippers .............1 C. Bailey n.o. ...........................67 M. Loader c. S. Beasley b. D. Hynes .............................3 S. Phillips b. J. Beasley ............10 A. Meade c. J. Beasley b. M. Hill .................................3 L. Williams n.o. ..........................1 Extras .......................................16

Total ....................................8/194 Bowling: J. Hales 1/38, D. Hynes 1/23, S. Nippers 2/16, D. Tiziani 1/13, J. Beasley 1/27, M. Huitson 0/23, S. Beasley 1/31, M. Hull 1/13. WONTHAGGI WORKMENS v NERRENA 1st Innings Nerrena T. Trotman c. A. McLean b. A. Sartori .............................1 G. Giliam b. A. Sartori ...............0 L. Jongebloed lbw. b. Coldabella ...........................8 W. Telfer n.o. ............................68 A. Harrison b. ..........................14 J. Richards c. S. Huitema b. A. McLean...........................5 Z. Trease lbw. b. L. Sawyer .....12 L. Brandon c. S. Coldabella b. A. Sartori .............................9 B. Croatto lbw. b. L. Sawyer ......0 J. Holloway n.o. .......................12 Extras .......................................13 Total ....................................8/142 Bowling: N. Tessarri 0/3, A. Sartori 3/5, A. McLean 1/20, S. Coldabella 1/29, S. Roche 0/21, L. Sawyer 3/38. 1st Innings Wonthaggi Workmens D. Britt lbw. b. J. Holloway .....36 S. Huitema lbw. b. W. Telfer ......5 C. Harvey c. Z. Trease b. L. Brandon .........................59 L. Sawyer c. W. Telfer b. V. Sasikumar .......................6 S. Bolding n.o. .........................26 J. Bolding n.o. ..........................29 Extras .......................................13 Total ....................................4/174 Bowling: L. Brandon 1/17, Z. Trease 0/20, W. Telfer 1/33, B. Croatto 0/39, J. Holloway 1/21, V. Sasikumar 1/33.

Cricket scoreboard C Grade OMK 6/162 (G. Lomagno 48, N. Besley n.o 18, G. Smith n.o. 11; M. Greenway 3/35) lt. Wonthaggi Miners 9/162 (M. Schreck 53, D. Jagoe 43; G. Adams 3/21). Town 204 (W. Turner r.o. 35, B. Moore 58; J. Poynton 4/39, G. Poynton 2/39) d Poowong/Loch 158 (P. Duffus 46, S. Poynton n.o. 38; W. Turner 3/22, B. Moore 3/29, J. Scott 3/25). Fish Creek/Tarwin 8/92 (M. Bright n.o. 22; C. Dooney 4/25) d Koonwarra RSL 64 (G. Logan 33; M. Danckert 3/19, C. Fisher 5/6). Wonthaggi Workmens 107 (S. Osborne 31; C. Harris 2/32, T. Gordon 2/5, S. Riley 2/10) lt. MDU 6/219 (N. Hill 67, T. Zukovskis 53; P. Huitema 2/34).

D Grade Imperials 8/119 (A. Jones 3/17, W. Williams 2/20) lt. Inverloch 9/257 (I. Smith 68, M. Goldsmith 60, W. Holmes n.o. 31, A. Jones. n.o. 32). Glen Alvie 8/191 (R. Ould 59, W. Luke 82; S. Hayes 2/21, J. Greenwood 3/46) lt. Korumburra 7/220 (C. Smith 88, J. Oxlee n.o. 19, S. Hayes n.o. 16; P. Palmer 2/52, G. Chisholm 3/47). Nerrena 4/294 (S. Checkley n.o. 199; M. Pickersgill 2/33 d Koonwarra RSL 6/177 (M. Dooney 43, B. Tomada n.o. 31; S. Gaddam 2/29, J. Hoy 2/8). Phillip Island 137 (J. Blackwell 31, J. Sorarti n.o. 14; D. Goss 2/25, W. Lomax 4/21, M. Luscombe 3/23) d Town 6/120 (G. Young 32, M. Luscombe n.o 15; G. Odgers

2/12, B. Johnston 2/25).

E Grade

Wonthaggi Workmens 5/175 (D. McGuirk 50, D. Turton n.o 26, S. Mitchelson n.o. 12; M. Chizzonitti 2/27) lt. OMK 6/232 (B. Maguire 104, D. Wylie 41; R. McGuirk 2/28). Foster 9/170 (M. Da Costa 69; S. McKinnon 2/27, T. Hancock 3/28, G. Humphrey 2/26) d Poowong/Loch 5/135 (J. Garnham n.o. 47, S. Muggeridge r.o. 29; J. Prain 1/14). Wonthaggi Miners drew Town. Phillip Island 3/180 (S. Furniss 64, A. Horvarth r.o. 38, P. Cashman n.o. 34; J. Witherow 1/37) d MDU 7/170 (G. Jones 40, C. Hughes 47, S. Sinclair 51; A. Horvarth 2/29, P. Cashman 3/19).

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 53

• LDCA A GRADE DIVISION ONE

Nerrena so close to upset BOTTOM side Nerrena almost pulled off the upset of the season when they went within one wicket of defeating ladder leaders, Wonthaggi Workmens.

Nerrena claims they were “unlucky” not to have had Luke McGuirk run out in the last over when he dropped his bat trying to make his ground for a second run. But the officiating umpire at square leg deemed that McGuirk had made his ground. Rob Geyer, who was running with McGuirk, said it was pretty close. “I didn’t see much; there was a big appeal; but we had two official umpires at our game and they made the call. “Nerrena needed the win badly; this may be the end of their season.” Going into the last over Nerrena needed one wicket, Workmens needed 11 runs. A first ball wide saw Workmens push for a second run, giving them three runs. With eight needed off six legal balls McGuirk fired up and hit two sixes; the game was over! Nerrena’s front line bowlers had run out of overs, leaving Murphy to bowl out the innings. He took quite a bit of stick; 47 from 6 overs. Workmens believe Nerrena miscalculated with their overs, leaving Murphy to bowl out the innings which could have cost them the game. Earlier Nerrena batted first and made what was a big score

of 3/263 from their 40 overs. Tim Wightman made 70 not out while Cameron Friebe made 45 and Damien Symmons 92. Workmens needed in excess of 6 an over to win. This was helped by a magnificent 171 partnership between David Brann and Gavin Bolding for the third wicket. McGuick managed to get Workers over the line under pressure with some lusty hitting. OMK scored a big win over Miners, 7/296 to Miners 8/230. Miners batted first with a fine opening partnership of 91 between Donohue 59 and Andrighetto 42. Trevisi made 46 but the innings fell away thanks to Peter Dell’s spell of 4/42 and Jason Wilson’s 3/41. In reply OMK’s innings saw another huge partnership of 123 between Daniel Creed 78 and Jason Wilson 92. With Kit Rotthier’s 60, the Diggers were well home with more than 7 runs per over. Best of the Miners was Ben Mattock with 3/39. Imperials 8/155 easily accounted for Inverloch 97. Xavier Davis was the top bat for Imps with 72, with Luke Rogers 23. At 4/11 Inverloch never recovered, although Nathan Cant made 24. Adam Eddy 4/28 is in fine form this season.

Details WONTHAGGI MINERS v OMK 1st Innings Wonthaggi Miners M. Donohue c. P. Harper b. P. Dell ................................59 J. Andrighetto c. J. Wilson

Quick thinking: Danny Rufﬁn considers an opportunity to increase Inverloch’s run tally.

Danger man: Adam Eddy was in superb form for Imperials.

b. M. Grabham ......................42 D. Beesey lbw. b. J. Wilson .....15 J. Trevisi c. T. Miller b. P. Dell ................................46 M. Johnson lbw. b. P. Dell .........4 J. Helman c. P. Harper b. P. Dell ................................13 J. O’Reilly b. J. Wilson ..............3 C. Thomas lbw. b. J. Wilson ......5 B. Mattock n.o............................5 R. Thomas n.o. ...........................7 Extras .......................................31 Total ....................................8/230 Bowling: D. McMeekin 0/24, K. Rothier 0/39, M. Grabham

Extras .......................................23 Total ....................................7/296 Bowling: R. Thomas 1/45, J. Trevisi 2/50, M. Johnson 1/52, J. Helman 0/63, R. Birkett 0/41, B. Mattock 3/39. INVERLOCH v IMPERIALS 1st Innings Imperials G. Sauvarin c. ..........................14 D. Davis lbw. .............................2 B. Pedlow b. ..............................9 T. Williams c. ..........................14 X. Davis n.o. ............................72 L. Rogers b. .............................23 M. Lafferty c. ............................0

1/38, L. Van Rooye 0/36, J. Wilson 3/41, P. Dell 4/42. 1st Innings OMK D. Creed lbw. J. Trevisi ...........78 N. Creed b. R. Thomas...............1 P. Dell c. J. Andrighetto b. J. Trevisi ..............................4 J. Wilson c. J. Andrighetto b. B. Mattock ........................92 K. Rothier b. B. Mattock..........60 D. McMeekin n.o. ....................15 R. White stp. C. Thomas b. B. Mattock...........................9 M. Grabham c&b. M. Johnson...5 P. Harper n.o...............................9

Clive’s decision time By Danny Buttler CLIVE Salmon knows just about everything there is to know about cricket. After a stellar career wearing the whites on local ovals, Clive is now one of the most respected umpires on the local scene. Such is the esteem in which he is held, Clive was selected as the local umpiring representative at last weekend’s Premier League match between Richmond and Dandenong, played at Leongatha. Premier League, which used to be known as district cricket, is one rung below the Shefﬁeld Shield. Clive said that, even though the same rules apply as local cricket, the Premier League matches are harder to umpire. “They are a lot different, everything is a lot quicker. You have to be a lot mentally tougher on yourself to concentrate,” he said. “All the ﬁelding, the whole lot is quicker. You have to move faster.” “The appealing is a lot stronger, they want to be heard.” Clive said he was delighted to be

selected for the Premier League match, putting the honour down to his vast experience in the game. “I’m accredited and I am probably in the best four umpires in the competition,” he said. “I played cricked for a long time, I retired when I was 48 after starting playing when I was 10 or 12.” Now 55, he has umpired for seven years, and has realised that he is judged on his ability to make the right decision. “It goes on the decision you make,” he said. “Most of the LBWs are pretty simple. Players know when they are out, I even have some walking when they are plumb. “I ﬁnd the LBs the easier decisions, it is just lining up where the stumps are and where the ball has pitched, but caught behind is the hardest decision to give.” Having watched the referral system that is now available in international cricket, Clive believes the game (and the umpire’s lot) will be improved. “You would hope they would get 85 per cent right,” he said. “I think it is okay, it is just that

Eye on the ball: Clive Salmon is making his mark as an umpire.

sometimes it takes too long to get to a decision.” “It takes the pressure off. “An umpire can give a caught behind not out but hotspot will show it has touched the bat. But with all the yelling and crowd noise it is hard for the umpire. I reckon this makes it a lot easier for them.” While he is clearly a stand-out man behind the stumps, Clive reckons he has left his run too late for a crack at higher level umpiring. “I am happy with what I am doing now, I’m just too old to go anywhere else,” he said. “You have to start off at a lower level and work your way up to Premier League level.” Local players will be happy with the news that Clive is staying put. He says the respect between himself and players has seen no problems with behaviour. “It’s excellent. I don’t have any issues with any players. They treat me the same way as I treat them,” he said. “I think it just comes out of respect for the umpires.”

U18 LDCA GCL team Round 4 THE fourth round of the U18 Gippsland Cricket League will be played this Sunday, January 17 against Central Gippsland at Keegan Street Reserve, Morwell. The team selected to represent the Leongatha and District Cricket Association is as follows. Clay Tait (captain), Sam Sperling (vice captain), Taylor Beard, Luke Bowman, Mitchell Clark, Justin Cook, Adrain Dimech, Jason Kennedy, Kallon Rigby, James Sherrin, Lachlan Sperling, Mitchell Thomas. All players are to bring their own gear, including spikes, lunch will be provided. Players are to meet at the Leongatha football ground at 8.15am. Please note no bus will be provided for this match. The team manager is Terry Clark and any queries can be directed to him on 0428 644 237.

N. Eddy c. .................................0 A. Eddy r.o. ................................0 M. Malloy n.o. ...........................2 Extras .......................................19 Total ....................................8/155 Bowling: N. Cant 1/21, C. Mollison 2/14, J. Couretnay 0/17, L. Rankin 2/31, A. Hall 2/24, D. Clark 0/33, J. Smith 0/14. 1st Innings Inverloch W. Taberner lbw. b. A. Eddy ......0 J. Smith b. A. Eddy ....................1 D. Ruffin b. J. Pellicano .............1 W. Rankin lbw. b. A. Eddy .........2 D. Clark c. B. Pedlow

b. X. Davis ........................... 11 N. Cant r.o. J. Pellicano............24 A. Ware b. L. Rogers................18 J. Courtenay c. T. Williams b. L. Rogers ........................... 11 A. Hall lbw. b. A. Eddy ..............0 C. Mollison c. T. Williams b. M. Malloy ............................3 L. Rankin n.o..............................1 Extras .......................................25 Total ....................................10/97 Bowling: A. Eddy 4/28, J. Pellicano 1/10, M. Malloy 1/14, X. Davis 1/17, N. Eddy 0/11, L. Rogers 2/10. WONTHAGGI WORKMENS v NERRENA 1st Innings Nerrena T. Wightman n.o. ......................77 C. Friebe c. M. McCall b. R. Thomas ........................45 G. Murphy c. D. Brann b. M. McCall ...........................8 D. Symmons c. G. Britt b. L. McGuirk .......................92 D. Baldi n.o. .............................17 Extras .......................................24 Total ....................................3/263 Bowling: L. McGuirk 1/67, M. McCall 1/29, R. Thomas 1/16, M. Thomas 0/46, G. Bolding 0/42, J. Sherrin 0/33, C. Harvey 0/28. 1st Innings Wonthaggi Workmens D. Brann c&b. T. Wightman ....90 C. Harvey b. J. Trease ..............19 G. Britt c. C. Friebe b. J. Trease...............................0 R. Thomas c&b. J. Trease ........19 G. Bolding c. D. Trotman b. D. Symmons......................66 S. Brann c. B. Castles b. D. Symmons.....................10 J. Sherrin b. T. Wightman ..........8 R. Geyer c. R. Clark b. G. Murphy ...........................4 L. McGuirk n.o. .......................25 M. McCall b. G. Murphy ...........0 M. Thomas n.o. ..........................0 Extras .......................................28 Total ....................................9/270 Bowling: J. Trease 3/43, R. Clark 0/60, B. Castles 0/25, T. Wightman 2/41, G. Murphy 2/47, D. Symmons 2/42.

• JUNIOR COUNTRY WEEK BAIRNSDALE JANUARY 4-8

LDCA juniors excel at Country Week LEONGATHA Under 15s and Under 14s have had an excellent week at junior country week at Bairnsdale, finishing runner-up to Sale Maffra in both divisions. The Under 14s won four games, losing to Sale Maffra, and the Under 15s won three, losing by three runs and 18 runs in their two losses. This is the LDCA’s best overall performance for some years, with both teams finishing second and the coaches Darren Scott and Mark Manteit and the support staff should be congratulated. The highlight of the week was Michael Manteit’s century, 107, on the final day, giving him the batting average for the Under 14 in the competition. He had two scores in the seventies. Jake Thomas had the most wickets in Under 14s with 10. The Under 15s took most wickets of all the sides with Warragul 9/56, Central 5/33 and Bairnsdale 3/44 in their second innings; the main wicket-taker was Jake Cochrane with 14. Most runs Thomas Wyatt with 141. We stayed at Lindenow Cricket Club with all the community very supportive of our cricketers and staff. Before we left for the carnival the players were presented with their LDCA caps by our association president Russell Mathews and LDCA cricketing legend Alan Sperling who also spoke on the honour of being selected in a representative side. We thank Russell and Alan

for making their time available and to Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club for sponsoring the evening and the barbecue. Several boys are in the running for the Gippsland sides when announced.

Details of matches Under 15s Game 1 LDCA v Traralgon at Wy Yung Traralgon batted ﬁrst making 7/142 off 50 overs Daniel Gordon 10 overs 2/16 and Jayson Meade 6 0vers 2/15. Leongatha batted and made 143 off 43 overs Thomas Wyatt 72, Ryan Olden 16 the last pair Daniel Britton and Cam Harris getting the last

two runs. Game 2 v Central Gippsland at Wy Yung Central batted ﬁrst, making 9/128 off 50 overs after being 5/38. Jake Cochrane 3/29 off 10 overs, Thomas Wyatt 3/26 off 10 overs. Leongatha batted, making 125/41 overs. Nick Moore 15, Ryan Olden 19 and a great knock Daniel Gordon 33 not out, Daniel and Cam Harris adding 17 for the last wicket. Central batted nine overs and lost 5/33, Jake Cochrane three and Thomas Wyatt two wickets each. Continued on page 51.

PAGE 54 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Racers tame mud VEHICLES reminiscent of a Mad Max film sprayed mud over the motor loving crowd at Dalyston 4WD Mud Drags on Sunday. Modified four-wheel-drive vehicles with plenty of grunt sped around a course of tight bends, holes and lots of mud to vie for prize money and glory. The event is part of the Australian Modified 4WD Racing Association’s cir-

Splashing about: the crowd appreciated the mix of mud sprays and loud engines.

cuit and is a major fundraiser for the Dalyston Football and Netball Club and the Dalyston Recreation Reserve. Those organisations hoped to raise up to $10,000. While there were no local racers entered this year, football club committee member Frank Angarane said the mud run attracted 25 vehicles, many from western Victoria where mud is scarce due to lack of rain.

Helping hands: more than 50 volunteers from the Dalyston Football and Netball Club were on hand to raise funds, including Kaye Carew, Carolyn Thomas, Jenny McRae, Ella Angarane and Kate McNish.

Mud loving crowd: Milton Hill, Matt Haw, Louise Haw, Brayden Hillis, Jesse Pinzone, Tyler Lorback and Brett Haw enjoy the action.

Lifesavers galore at carnival MORE than 600 young lifesavers from around Victoria swelled the Inverloch surf beach to bursting point on Sunday, for a major competition. The Life Saving Victoria Junior Carnival drew strong entries from Inverloch, Venus Bay, Waratah Beach, Wonthaggi and Woolamai surf lifesaving clubs, as

Active bunch: Venus Bay nippers Jessica McGaw, Carla Moran, Paris Blackman, Leah Margetts and Ruby McGregor.

Taking a break: enjoying time out in the sand are Inverloch club youngsters, Matilda Bissett, Jasmine Wightman, Hilary Collett, Brianna Wightman and Alyssa Wightman.

Right: In groove: Waratah Beach surf lifesavers Maxi Worboys, Holly Pilkington, Alex Rowland and Luke O’Neill show their style after competing in the Under 14 board rescue.

well as from clubs across Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula and Geelong region. Boys and girls braved the heat and strong currents to compete in ﬂag racing, sprints, board rescue and medley relays. Life Saving Victoria’s youth and leadership manager Kate Comer praised the superb organisation of host club, Inverloch.

So close: Kirsten Thomas of Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club (on left) dashes for the ﬂag.

“THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 - PAGE 55

By Chris Brown VENUS Bay hosted two Australian surf champions last week. Winner of seven Australian Ironman titles, Ky Hurst, and world board rescue champion, Phil Clayton were in South Gippsland on Tuesday and Wednesday. The visit, which included beach trainings and a motivational talk, was organised by the Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club. On Wednesday morning Phil Clayton began a training session with running and stretches. The 20 or so participants ran up the dunes before hitting the water. Mr Clayton said people participating in his South Gippsland training sessions knew what they were doing. “I got to bring down a few extra things,” he said. He was the 2000 World Ironman Champion and is a coach at Kurrawa Surf Life Saving Club on the Gold Coast. Mr Clayton was on his ﬁrst trip to Venus Bay and was won over by the beach. “I love it. I’ve had a great time. I love this raw and natural beach,” he said. “I come from a beach which has white sand and you need a cyclone to get a good wave. “This is a surfer’s beach and I’m a surfer.” On Wednesday Mr Clayton said if those conditions were

repeated at his Gold Coast beach it would be a fantastic day with hundreds of people in the water. He said he’d met some amazing people during his Venus Bay visit. “I think I’ve struck up quite a few friendships,” Mr Clayton said. Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club junior co-ordinator Dave Cumming said the visit by the two men was a rare opportunity for the region. “I think one of the highlights for everyone was watching these guys in our surf and how they handled the waves and made it look so easy,” he said. “It’s like they are at one with the ocean; they are so smooth and ﬂuent.” At a motivational talk in the clubhouse on Tuesday night people were encouraged to set achiev- South Gippsland welcome: Ky Hurst with local nippers Harrison Cumming (Venus Bay), Taite Cumable goals. ming (Venus Bay) and Locke DeGaris (Meeniyan). “I think everyone will take away the ability to listen, look and learn,” Mr Cumming said.

Above: Beach lessons: a group of local lifesavers training at Venus Bay last week.

South Gippsland visit: Table Tennis Victoria CEO Chris Horwood (back) with Leongatha players Bryce Holwerda, Michaela Campbell and Daniel Campbell.

Training the table tennis future By Chris Brown SOUTH Gippsland table tennis players received valuable tips from the Chief Executive Ofﬁcer of Table Tennis Victoria last week. Chris Horwood has spent four days in Leongatha during the past fortnight, passing on his knowledge of the game to the next generation of players. He especially focused on the kids who made the Gippsland Sports Academy table tennis squad. “It was a chance to give the kids some concentrated work they might not otherwise receive,” Mr Horwood said. The training focused on the fundamentals of the sport, including top and back spin shots. Mr Horwood emphasised the importance of moving the feet during play. “I’ve also been looking at the equipment they have and made some recommendations,” he said.

“Sometimes kids need rewards for making the right shot quickly and they get depressed if they have equipment that doesn’t reward them.” As Table Tennis Victoria CEO, Mr Horwood runs table tennis in the state, and facilitates relationships with clubs and associations in the ﬁeld. He started playing table tennis in 1980 in a public service competition while working at the Royal Children’s Hospital. The team folded and Mr Horwood took a break from the sport. But he went back to the game after he got “tennis elbow playing golf”. The position of CEO is full time and paid, but Mr Horwood’s visits to Leongatha were on his own time. “I have been trying to get to regional clubs,” he said. “I think it’s important the people at the centre of the sport are seen as much as possible, so they are known by the clubs and can do a bit of talent spotting.”

Training instructions: Phil Clayton puts participants through their paces.

Below: Beach times: Amy Thompson, Ky Hurst and Leah Gates.

PAGE 56 - “THE STAR”, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Cricket hots up

Fine form: Jack Clements takes a break from competition at the Leongatha tournament last week.

SOUTH Gippsland has enjoyed a marathon weekend of cricket, plus there’s plenty more to come in the run-up to the ﬁnals.

Pic sbl12cricket8 Speed demon: Adam Eddy sends one down for Imperials against Inverloch on Sunday.

Loving his tennis By Brad Lester AT THE age of just nine, Jack Clements already has a reputation in tennis circles. The boy has the talent and determination of a player many years his senior, and is transforming his passion for tennis into trophies. The Inverloch youngster starred at recent tournaments at Leongatha and Inverloch, winning many titles and securing his place at the top of local ranks. “It feels good,” the modest Jack said of his successes last week. Parents Shane and Sharon were proud. “He just got into the Gippsland Sports Academy and will go on camps and to a lot of tournaments,”

Shane said. At the 29th Annual Inverloch Junior Tennis Classic, Jack won the 10 and under singles, and the 10 and under boys doubles with Harry McInnes. Jack placed second in the 14 and under mixed doubles with Casey Teakle and took the consolation prize in the 14 and under singles. Then he featured at the 10th Annual South Gippsland Junior Classic at Leongatha, winning the 10 and under singles, the 10 and under boys doubles with Elijah Cousins, and the 12 and under boys doubles with Simon Thomas. Jack and Simon were runners-up in the 14 and under boys doubles. A member of the Inverloch Tennis Club, Jack is highly regarded by fellow club members after just two

years in the sport. His forehand is his strength. “I just hit my strokes back from the baseline. I like my groundstrokes,” Jack said. He is coached by renowned South Gippsland coach, Mark Sheppard of Inverloch, and also practises with his father, taking to the court six days a week. While he wears a cap with the signature of Australian battler Wayne Arthurs, Jack is a fan of high ranking Spaniard, Rafael Nadal. “He’s a left hander and he hits very strong,” Jack said. “It takes a lot of stamina and a bit of skill and you have to train two times a week or more to be a good player.”

LDCA president, Russell Matthews, said that nearly all grades in the association are wide open, with almost every team in with a chance of making the finals with four, two day games remaining. “Taking a look at Division One for example, Nerrena and Glen Alvie can still make it. “Miners being defeated by OMK has really opened up this division. Miners are in fourth but have only won four games. Anyone can make the finals,” Mr Matthews said. Nerrena, last on the ladder, almost pulled off a major upset by defeating top side Workmens, while second last Glen Alvie defeated Korumburra. Another highlight of the round was in D Grade which saw Nerrena player Scott Checkley score a magnificent 199 not out. Checkley smashed 32 fours and 6 sixes in his mammoth score. He needed 21 runs off the last over for his 200 but only managed 20. Needing five from the last ball of the innings, he hit a four, falling one run short of the milestone. Mr Matthews has been on the hop all weekend attending cricket matches. On Saturday, he watched as Richmond hosted Dandenong in the Premier cricket round in Leongatha. On a top pitch, Richmond won the toss and batted first, making 5/187 from their 50 overs. Dandenong fell in a heap in response, all out for just 66 in the 28th over. LDCA president, Russell Matthews, said the association has supported the event for the past seven years and “I really support the concept. “We may have a rest next year. We quite often run into trouble with the Bass Valley Show clashing with the round. We can’t play at Wonthaggi if the show is on.” Following the Premier cricket match Imperials fronted Phillip Island in a round of the 20/20 cricket competition. Imperials won in a thriller in the last over. The LDCA juniors have just completed a week of cricket at country week in Bairnsdale, having finished runners-up in both Under 14 and Under 15 sections, losing to Sale/Maffra. “A credit must go to Geoff ‘Spic’ Wyatt who has been co-ordinating the juniors this year. He has done a magnificent job,” Mr Matthews said. This week the All-Gippsland Under 18 team is competing at Traralgon in the Under 18 championships. Good luck to the LDCA’s three representatives in the team Mitchell Clark, Sam and Lauchie Sperling. Cricket hasn’t been without its share of controversy, as usual. Nerrena claimed that they should have won Sunday’s match against Workmens but for a run out decision which didn’t go their way. (See story inside) There’s also been a lot of talk about

Speed demon: Adam Eddy sends one down for Imperials against Inverloch on Sunday.

Scott Checkley’s 199 not out playing for Nerrena in D Grade. Checkley was captain of Nerrena’s premiership team of 2009. Koonwarra/Leongatha RSL were believed to be wondering why Checkley was playing in D Grade. But Russell Matthews watered down all the talk, saying it was fair enough. “Checkley is mostly known for his bowling and has had a lot of trouble with his shoulder. Nerrena has been playing him as a batsman in B Grade. He hasn’t played any A Grade cricket this season. “Apparently Checkley wasn’t going to play this round but Nerrena president Terry Clark put out an SOS call as they were extremely short of players. “I know that Terry broke his collarbone on the weekend and he needed players.” “It is quite within the rules for a player to move one rung up or down in the competition so it is fair enough. It was a great knock.” Nerrena president Terry Clark conﬁrmed Checkley would again be unavailable next week, with more treatment on his troublesome shoulder expected to sideline him again. “Scott just can’t bowl at the moment. He hadn’t been making that many in B Grade so with us being short in D Grade we thought we’d play him there.” The battle is also hotting up to see who will claim cricket’s highest honours. Damien Symmons leads the A Grade Division One batting average with 74.89. Nearest rival is Tim Hooper of Workmens with 62.4. In the bowling OMK’s Peter Dell is leading the way with 25 wickets at an average of 10.92 including one memorable hat trick. Fairly close behind is Udara Weerasinghe of Korumburra with 22 wickets at 14 and Matthew Johnson of Wonthaggi Miners with 21 wickets at 17.14. Damien Symmons remains very much the player in contention for Cricketer of the Year with 754 points from Jason Wilson on 618 and Udara Weerasinghe on 611.