Western Port News 16 June 2021 by Mornington Peninsula News Group

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Wednesday 16 June 2021

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A LARGE eucalypt hit a house in Hastings, left, while the rear of a Balnarring Beach house was virtually demolished by a large Cypress pine that first flattened an adjoining garage and studio, above. Pictures: Chris Watt (left), David Gill (above) and Yanni

Wild night sets callout record Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au DOZENS of trees were knocked down and havoc caused on the roads when south to-south-easterly winds of more than 100kph lashed the Mornington Peninsula overnight Wednesday 9 June. SES and CFA crews worked nonstop to help residents with water and tree damage to their properties and to clear fallen trees. United Energy said by early Thursday morning crews were working to restore power to 8615 homes and businesses after the “extreme weather which caused extensive damage to the electricity network”.

“Severe winds, with sustained wind gusts from 11pm to 3am of more than 100kph, have brought down trees and branches onto powerlines and caused extensive damage to the power network across Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs and the Mornington Peninsula,” United Energy’s Jordan Oliver said. “Crews are responding to more than 121 wires down and more than 421 faults.” The storm’s timing was ironic: Wednesday 9 June was Thank a First Responder Day. It was also the busiest night in SES history, with the SES state controller saying Hastings was the hardest-hit area on the peninsula. Residents made 190 calls for help in the 24 hours from

midday Wednesday to midday Thursday. Other badly-affected areas were Sorrento with 84 calls, Mount Eliza 74, Mount Martha 46, Mornington 43, Rosebud 22, Somerville 14, Balnarring 12, Red Hill 11, and Rye 11. Somers SES was called to 118 incidents by 4.30am Thursday – mostly downed trees. Peninsula CFA crews were just as busy, receiving dozens of calls for assistance. Mount Eliza CFA responded to five calls Wednesday afternoon. The last was to extinguish a power pole fire in Eliza Drive. Red Hill Fire Brigade, after receiving a request from police, rushed all their appliances to clear trees from roads with the help of residents using what-

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ever heavy machinery was at hand. The crews managed to clear trees from White Hill, Arthurs Seat, Red Hill, Stanleys and Shands roads. Sorrento SES controller Mark Daw had not been to bed overnight as he was too busy attending call-outs. “I don’t know how many jobs we have been to, but it might be 50,” he said 11am Thursday. “It’s like a war zone with mainly trees down over roads and other hazards. “The calls came in from about 5.30pm yesterday (Wednesday) and started building from there. “We’ve had lots of rain and I’ve never seen wind like it. It got to a point where it was too dangerous. No

one got much sleep last night.” Sorrento SES had three crews out (nine people) at 11am Thursday and still had another 11 or 12 jobs to complete before they could take a break. Mornington Peninsula Shire maintenance crews were working alongside SES and emergency services, while shire arborists were out across the peninsula responding to calls for help with fallen trees. Rapid response crews were collecting smaller debris and rubbish. “Due to the severity of the winds and impacts across the shire, it’s likely the clean-up will take up to four weeks. Branch pick-ups may take up to eight weeks,” interim director of place Jessica Wingad said.

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NEWS DESK

Western Port

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Journalists: Stephen Taylor, Brodie Cowburn 5974 9000 Photographers: Gary Sissons, Yanni Advertising Sales: Bruce Stewart 0409 428 171 Real Estate Account Manager: Jason Richardson 0421 190 318 Production/Graphic design: Marcus Pettifer, Danielle Espagne Group Editor: Keith Platt 0439 394 707 Publisher: Cameron McCullough REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Peter McCullough, Stuart McCullough, Andrew Hurst, Craig MacKenzie. ADDRESS: Mornington Peninsula News Group PO Box 588 Hastings 3915 Email: team@mpnews.com.au Web: www.mpnews.com.au DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: 1PM ON THURS 17 JUNE 2021 NEXT ISSUE PUBLICATION DATE: WED 23 JUNE 2021

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Fatal crash: A man died in a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Mornington-Tyabb and Stumpy Gully roads, Moorooduc last Friday. The photo of the Mazda SUV with green P-plate in the window was taken at 11.30am. Picture: Gary Sissons

Fatal crash at Tyabb

A TYABB man died when the utility in which he was a passenger collided with sedan at Moorooduc, Friday 11 June. The 56-year-old was in a Ford ute being driven by an 18-year-old man from Tyabb, who police said was a “relative”, when they collided head on with a Mazda sedan at the intersection of Stumpy Gully and MorningtonTyabb roads, 5.55am.

The driver of the ute was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries while a 20-year-old Mornington woman, the sole occupant of the Mazda, was taken to hospital with what were described as serious injuries. Fog was said to be thick in the area at the time. The intersection was closed between Mornington Peninsula Freeway and

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Coolart Road for the day. CFA crews were later called in to clear the crash site of debris. Detectives from the major collision investigation unit have called for anyone with dash-cam footage, or who has information about the crash, to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au Stephen Taylor

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16 June 2021

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Trust says ‘no’ to council’s chosen delegate Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire Council has been asked to revoke its decision to make Cr Anthony Marsh its delegate to the Bass Park Trust. The near century old trust was established to protect land occupied by Flinders Golf Club from developers. Red Hill Ward councillor David Gill has attended the trust’s meetings for the past four and a half years, but on Tuesday 1 June Cr Marsh put his hand up for the position and was backed by five of his colleagues to make him the council-appointed delegate to the trust. The Bass Park Trust has since accused councillors of having “formed a block to make decisions that are only in their interests and not for the good of the community”. “This move breaks all normal protocols and should be of great concern to the public,” a letter signed by the trust’s secretary/treasurer Peter Gerdsen said. The trust said it was disappointed the council had appointed a councillor from outside the Red Hill Ward. Cr Marsh, a Briars Ward councillor, told the council that it was “important all councillors are active all over the municipality”. “We get bombarded by residents about their concerns from throughout municipality. Inside, outside of the ward, it doesn’t matter. “I think it’s healthy that we break down some of these barriers and ward politics. It is something I am interested in; I had a member of the

Cr Anthony Marsh

THE golf course and clifftop at Flinders managed by the Bass Park Trust. Picture: Keith Platt local golfing community suggest I had a look at it.” Cr Marsh said the appointment was for one year and he wanted “to see if we can any get any improved outcomes”. Later in the debate Cr Marsh said he had been “encouraged by members of Red Hill community to look at this”. “If Cr Gill wants to nominate for anything in Briars Ward, he’s absolutely welcome.” Cr Gill said he was “interested in why another councillor would want to be involved in Red Hill Ward”. “There was a similar incident in last election when someone who lived in Mount Eliza stood against me, so I suppose anything can happen,” he

said. “My view is that a local person from that ward should be on that committee, the same as you would expect to be on a committee say, for a community house, in [the Briars Ward’s] Mount Eliza.” Cr Gill said the trust’s “one main aim” was to protect the land for golf … look after the foreshore in that location and matters to do with [Flinders] yacht club, which is on that land also”. In their letter the trustees said they were “extremely disappointed” with the election of a councillor outside the Red Hill Ward, “a non-local”. “For 98 years as far as the trustees are aware, it is normal and common practice, wherever possible, to appoint

a ward councillor to committees in that councillor’s ward. “We would like the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council to reconsider this appointment as the local councillor is better placed to identify and understand decisions what may impact the trust’s responsibilities. “We are also extremely disappointed the trust’s position was not considered by council in this change of representative. “This lack of respect for the trustees is emphasised by council failing to inform the trustees directly and reflects badly on Mornington Peninsula Council, who are supposed to represent the local community.”

Sent – 15th Feb

How are you?

NINE Mornington Peninsula residents were awarded medals in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, Monday 14 June. They were among 947 recipients in the General Division of the Order of Australia announced by the GovernorGeneral David Hurley. Medals of the Order of Australia (OAMs), were awarded to Sarnia Birch, of Mount Martha, for service to veterans and their families; Richard (Dick) Cox, of Tyabb, for service to the community of the Mornington Peninsula; Barry Irving, of Rye, for service to the community of Rosebud-Rye; Tom McCullough, of Mount Martha, for service to the galleries sector; Ross McKenzie, of Rye, for service to cricket and to the community of Rye; Catherine Norman, of Mount Eliza, for service to aged welfare; Patrick Smith, of Sorrento, for service to the print media as a journalist; and Victor Rodwell, of Mornington, for service to the community of Hastings and Western Port. “On behalf of all Australians, congratulations to all recipients. Each of these individuals are unique and their story deserves to be shared widely and celebrated,” General Hurley said.

Sent – 23rd Feb

On the mend.

Greg (work) – 1st Feb

Queen’s honours for outstanding service

Glad I’m back!

Greg (work) – 20th Feb

See you soon. Everyone Every workplace

The sooner you get in touch after an injury, the better the return to work journey. If you’re recovering from a psychological or physical workplace injury, or if you are an employer supporting an injured worker, make contact as soon as possible. It just takes a few simple words to make a big difference. The sooner, the better. worksafe.vic.gov.au/thesoonerthebetter

Western Port News

16 June 2021

PAGE 3

NEWS DESK

Day of reckoning for pledge disguised as ‘The Prayer’

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FRIDAY is the deadline for public comments to be made about Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors beginning their meetings with a prayer or a pledge. Words of a pledge have been spoken since December last year (except for one meeting in February) but the agenda item is listed as Th Prayer, even though there is no mention of a god, deity or any other supernatural being considered divine or sacred. The word prayer was retained to describe the pledge following the shire’s in-house lawyer Amanda Sapolu advising that as long as what they were saying was called a prayer, there was no need to consult the public (“God purged from council ‘prayer’” The News 15/12/20). However, what seemed like a move to avoid seeking public approval to change a decades’ long tradition came unstuck at the council’s 9 February meeting when Cr Antonella Celi “reminded” councillors that “community consultation is foundational to local government”. The words “almighty God” were used in the The Prayer for that meeting but have been dropped ever since following councillors’ agreeing to test public feeling. The then newly elected Cr Anthony Marsh, who moved that the pledge be substituted for the prayer at his first council meeting in December, said he had been “listening to voices that aren’t heard; to people that are silent in our community that had a view”. Cr Marsh’s pledge has been recited ever since, but the wording of The Prayer agenda item is up for comment along with other amendments to the shire’s Governance Rules.

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Western Port News

16 June 2021

The Pledge

“We pledge that this council will act in the best interests of the entire Mornington Peninsula community. We will conduct our deliberations and make decisions with an open mind and on each item’s individual merit. We further commit to carry out our duties impartially and in good faith, treating each other with respect, dignity and kindness, and at all times, acting in accordance with the Councillor Code of Conduct and Governance Rules.”

The Prayer

Almighty God, we humbly seek Thy blessings upon this Council. Direct and prosper its deliberations to the advancement of Thy glory and the true welfare of the people of the Mornington Peninsula Shire. Give us the strength and courage to make wise decisions with grace and dignity. Amen.

If given the public tick of approval, The Prayer may be dropped from future agendas and replaced by The Pledge, which means it will no longer have to masquerade as a prayer. Other proposed changes to the rules involve: n Councillors attending meetings by teleconference. n Chairperson’s powers. n Chief executive officer powers. n Councillors introducing further amendments. n Notices of motion. n Inclusion of the “election period policy”. The deadline for comments and submissions is this Friday, 18 June. Go to mornpen.vic.gov.au/governancerules to have your say. Contact the shire’s governance team for further information on 5950 1000 or at customerservice@mornpen.vic.gov.au

Police patrol

With Stephen Taylor

Motorcyclist down A MOTORCYCLIST was airlifted to The Alfred hospital with upper body injuries after colliding with a fallen tree on the road at Dromana, 9.30pm, Monday 7 June. The man, in his 40s, from Mernda, was reportedly in a stable condition after the incident, near Shergolds Lane. Police said they would be following up his reasons for being in breach of the Chief Health Officer’s instruction and beyond the 10 kilometre COVID-19 limit.

Smoke but no fire Going nowhere: The raiders’ car was stuck fast in the Sealy Cycles store at Peninsula Home last week. Picture: Supplied

Raiders of the stuck car RAMRAIDERS managed to steal a valuable off-road bike from a Mornington bicycle store last week despite their foray taking an unexpected turn. The pair backed a Holden Commodore station wagon at speed into the front glass doors of the Sealy Cycles store at Peninsula Home, Nepean Highway, 4.30am, Wednesday 9 June – where it promptly got stuck. Detective Alex Montgomery, of Somerville CIU, said the force of the entry caused $20,000 damage and wedged the car so firmly inside that SES crews were called to help, and a tow truck was needed to pull it out later that morning. Store staff, who asked not to be named, said CCTV footage showed one befuddled thief “grabbing the closest bike” – a $8000 Felt Compulsion 3 Enduro mountain bike – and pushing it through the shattered window before carrying it away. The men were described as “disguised” and wearing dark clothing and headlamps. Detective Montgomery said the car was not stolen and “inquiries are being made as to the owner” as part of the investigations. The raid is the second at the store in just over a week. Three thieves previously distracted staff and stole a Norco E-Bike valued at $10,000.

FIRE Rescue Victoria and CFA crews rushed to a possible apartment fire at Mornington, Wednesday 9 June. A triple zero caller reported smoke coming from the Ross Street building’s roof, 1.30pm. Firefighters on the scene within five minutes found smoke from a restaurant below had entered a flue system and gone into the apartment. Crews wearing breathing apparatus made the scene safe and ventilated the area. The incident was declared under control 20 minutes later.

Speed drop Boneo Road THE Department of Transport has reduced the speed limit on Boneo Road, Flinders from 100kph to 80kph. Somerville Highway Patrol police during their community engagement process found that about 70 per cent of motorists favoured the speed drop which extends the full length of the road. “Police cited road-user safety and wildlife safety to those who chose to engage, as well as recent serious crashes and fatalities,” Senior Sergeant Phillip Hulley said. The department said road trauma data supported the speed drop, with the lower limit set to “significantly reduce the severity of road trauma”.

Pull over, drivers SOMERVILLE Highway Patrol members last

week targeted drink and drug drivers visiting fast food and bottle shop drive throughs across the Mornington Peninsula. During involved in Operation Drive Thru, Friday and Saturday 4-5 June, they pulled over 67 vehicles for breath-testing. Two drivers were found to be over the limit while one refused further testing. They will all be summonsed to appear at court at a later date. Of the 65 oral fluid tests conducted 14 drivers were found to have drugs in their systems, with three drivers refusing to be further tested. Seven unauthorised drivers were detected, eight vehicles were impounded, 16 penalty notices were issued, and nine vehicle-defect notices were issued. A total of 23 other offences were detected, such as driving while suspended, and driving unregistered cars.

Big night out A CRANBOURNE North man pulled over while heading south on Moorooduc Highway, Moorooduc, was found to be in breach of the Chief Health Officer’s instruction and more than 10 kilometres from home, 1am, Saturday 5 June. The 19-year-old P-plater was taken to Mornington police station where he was found to be over the legal limit at 0.107 per cent. His licence was suspended and his vehicle was impounded for 30 days for a cost of $1315. He will be summonsed to appear at court at a later date.

Chisholm TAFE robbed A MAN who forced entry to Chisholm TAFE, Frankston, last week stole a number of hand held power tools from a store room. The man entered Building B through a construction area by removing a plywood board, 1.35-2.17am, Wednesday 19 May. He is described as Caucasian, mid/late 60s, medium build, grey hair with receding hairline, wearing a long navy blue rain coat, navy pants, black boots and carrying a green reusable shopping bag. Anyone with information is urged to contact

Detective Senior Constable Brendan Fontana at Frankston CIU, 97845535 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.

Officers assaulted TWO police officers assaulted at Langwarrin last week were investigating a spate of theftfrom and theft-of cars when they spotted a stolen car on Aqueduct Road. A man and a woman approached the officers and attempted to get into the stolen car, Tuesday 8 June. During a fight, a female officer was allegedly punched in the face while one of the offenders managed to steal a can of capsicum spray and use it on the police. Police will allege the man attempted to grab a police handgun while threatening to “kill them” and also to encourage the woman to get into the car and run them over. A 41-year-old Langwarrin woman was arrested at the scene, but the man ran off. She has been charged with reckless conduct, resisting police, theft of a motor vehicle, possessing a dangerous article, possessing drugs and other charges. She has been bailed to appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court on 22 November. Police want to speak to anyone who saw the incident or who has CCTV, dash-cam footage or other information. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au

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PAGE 5

CHRIS BRAYNE MP MEMBER FOR NEPEAN

CHRIS BRAYNE MP STATE MEMBER FOR NEPEAN Shop 1/739 Point Nepean Road, McCrae VIC 3938 P: (03) 5986 6661 E: chris.brayne@parliament.vic.gov.au

This publication is funded from Parliamentary budget. Authorised by C. Brayne, Shop 1/739 Point Nepean Rd, McCrae, VIC 3938. PAGE 6

Western Port News

16 June 2021

Newspaper Layout.indd 2-3

$4.3 MILLION FOR SOUTHERN PENINSULA YOUTH SERVICES HUB In April I was delighted to announce that the Victorian Government will contribute $4.3 Million towards the new Southern Peninsula Youth Services Hub in Rosebud! The new youth hub will be a modern and accessible home for a wide range of services and programs, with a strong focus on mental health support, advice and counselling. It will also improve health and wellbeing outcomes for young people; increase opportunities for young people to access inclusive recreational activities; and reduce the risk of suicide by supporting young people in our community.

UPDATE ON MORNINGTON PENINSULA BUS IMPROVEMENTS At the end of last year, I was so excited to inform our community of dramatic improvements to our bus network on the Mornington Peninsula. These improvements are right on track! The improvements include: • 788 running every half an hour on weekdays and 40 minutes on weekends • 887 Express Bus to Frankston from Rosebud to Dromana and then along Peninsula Link to Frankston • 781 going further than Mt Martha and now terminating in Dromana Works that are currently taking place include the procurement of new buses for this route and new bus stop shelters that meet disability and access requirements. I will look forward to sharing the new bus routes in my next newsletter! In further great news, I can now also inform the community that this 887 express will go up the freeway and will have a stop at Frankston Hospital before then going to Frankston train station. These improvements are on track to be rolled out by the end of this year and early next year, although the 788 improvements will arrive in a few months time. I will continue to push for the improvements to arrive as soon as possible. This will better connect our Southern Peninsula to Frankston, allowing people to get to work, medical services or to see family and friends!

SCHOOL REBUILD UPGRADES •

$13.77 million upgrade to Rosebud Primary School – Construction underway

•

$3.2 million upgrade to Red Hill Consolidated School – Construction underway

•

$8.8 million upgrade to Dromana Primary School – Planning underway

•

$2.8 million for new campus in Rosebud for Advance College – Construction underway

•

$10 million upgrade to Rosebud Secondary College – Early works underway

UPDATE ON PROPOSED FAST FOOD CHAIN AT SAFETY BEACH I stand with my community against this proposal for more fast food at the service station on the corner of Nepean Highway and Marine Drive, Safety Beach. Last year, on Facebook, I surveyed my community and more than 10,000 of you responded resoundingly saying you did not want this to proceed. I then wrote to the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, urging Councillors to reject the proposal. Since that time, the proponent has taken the council to VCAT. I urge the Shire council to ght this proposal as hard as possible and to use my poll and the feedback from it in evidence.

UPGRADE TO PAVILION AT RED HILL RECREATION RESERVE In fantastic news for the Red Hill community, the Red Hill Football Netball Club and Cricket Club will be the beneciaries of $2 million from the Victorian Government to upgrade the Red Hill Recreation Reserve Pavilion! The Red Hill Cricket Club and Red Hill Football Netball Club have long discussed the need to upgrade their facilities and improve functionality for their juniors, women’s, and men’s teams. This upgrade will help deliver a new home and away changerooms, associated amenities, umpires changerooms, new storage and improved access to the building. I know how excited the clubs will be knowing that they will soon have permanent, new changing rooms and not portables in the car park! I look forward to providing my community with updates on this project in the coming months!

BrayneForNepean

LIKE ME ON N FACEBOOK Western Port News

16 June 2021

PAGE 7

9/06/2021 8:07:02 PM

POLITICS

‘Voices’ making call for an independent FORMER Liberal Leader John Hewson and former Independent MP for Indi Cathy McGowan will join forces this Saturday (19 June) in a free online forum to support the launch of Voices of Mornington Peninsula. The organisation aims to find a candidate to stand as an independent against sitting Liberal Flinders MP, Greg Hunt. Voices of Mornington Peninsula (VMP) is a not-for-profit organisation whose members “believe in the strength of community to effect positive change and, like many, are tired if the inaction of party politics and seek true independent representation at all political levels”. “Voices of Mornington Peninsula is an opportunity for residents to come together, find shared values, identify common issues, and then help select an independent candidate to represent those views at the next [federal] election,” VMP chair Dr Kate Lardner said. The online forum will be hosted by former ABC broadcaster and journalist Tracee Hutchison, who will be talking with Mr Hewson about Australia’s two-party political system and how that can be changed by independent candidates. Ms McGowan, the independent who in 2013 defeated sitting Liberal MP Sophie Mirabella, will outline principles of community engagement favoured by the growing “Voices of” movement and the strength and ben-

Political party wants ‘salary cut’ for MPs Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au

JOHN Hewson efits of having a community selected independent representing an area. Mr Hewson and Ms McGowan will be joined by local by co-founding director of VMP Louise Page, who will speak about the aims of the Voices movement here and peninsula residents can be part of “an exciting new wave of true political representation”. The other co-founders of VMP are Dr Lardner, charity founder Sean Willmore, designer and student Janelle Magee and small business operator Michael Stephens. After the online panel session there will be a questions and answers. Musician Tim Stout will also perform during the 90-minute session. To register for the online launch of Voices of Mornington Peninsula visit www.voicesofmornpen.org.au or search for Voices of Mornington Peninsula on Facebook and hit the events tab.

ALTHOUGH no date has been announced for the next federal election, Steve Anger has already announced he will seek to win Flinders for The New Liberals. Mr Anger, of Rosebud, will need to defeat sitting Liberal MP Greg Hunt, who is the minister for health and aged in the Scott Morrison-led government. Mr Hunt has held Flinders since being elected in 2001 and managed to fend off eight other candidates to win the 2019 election. He now holds the seat with a two candidate preferred majority of 11.28 per cent, 1.37 per cent less than his win in the previous election. Mr Anger says the term the “forgotten people” has never been more pertinent and relevant in Australian politics. “The government, the bureaucracy, the corporations and the cyber dictatorship have forgotten humanity and lost sight of community values and individual needs. While spruiking platitudes, they simply seek power as an end in itself,” he said. He was standing for The New Liberals because he believed the party “can work with our communities to redress the neglect of the last few decades and bring a thoughtful and caring ap-

STEVE Anger proach to politics”. “A country that invests in its citizen’s education, health and welfare while taking the urgent action needed for the environment will always succeed.” Mr Anger said he was one of five children brought up by a single mother. Having left school at 15 and worked in forestry and the railways, he eventually returned to study and became a lawyer. “I have worked for social justice in industrial relations with government, and as a barrister, in criminal justice and refugee law,” he said. Mr Anger describes The New liberals as “a progressive new party seeking to appeal to true small l Liberals and [Liberal party founder Sir

Robert] Menzies’ "forgotten people". He has “lived off and on” the peninsula for the past 20 years and made it his permanent home earlier this year. “I believe the current political parties are letting us down in so many areas and the parliament needs a fresh approach not dominated by career politicians,” Mr Anger said. “In particular, they have let us down on initiatives to combat climate change and combat threats to our environment. “Allied to this is the abandonment of small business and the great role that they can play in new emerging alternative energies and commercial practices.” The New Liberals website lists 37 policies, including animal welfare, arts, Australia Day, a bill of rights, climate change, domestic violence, full employment and job guarantee, law, national anthem (keep the tune but change lyrics), parliamentary salaries (cut by 20 per cent), political donations (allow, but ban “major political advertising” during election campaigns), tax (force corporations to “pay their fair share”) and water management (including phasing out water intensive crops). The website states: “We are not politicians. Most members of The New Liberals would never have entered politics, unless they were driven to do so, by the yawning nothingness offered by the other parties.”

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Protecting the Balcombe Estuary Reserves Mornington Peninsula Shire is investigating whether further planning controls are needed to better protect the environmental values of Mount Martha’s Balcombe Estuary Reserves. The project aims to find a balance between preserving the ecological values of the reserves, while supporting appropriate sport and recreation uses of the area. We are now seeking your feedback. Your insight will help to inform the project and make a difference to the future of the reserves.

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Western Port News

16 June 2021

& Rubber Flooring

LETTERS

Letters - 300 words maximum and including full name, address and contact number - can be sent to The News, PO Box 588, Hastings 3915 or emailed to: team@mpnews.com.au

‘Fatal flaw’ in vote against $8000 training course Councillors spend money on training all the time, but this is the first time this term that training has come transparently to a council meeting for approval. It falls well within the allocated training budget per councillor (“Colleagues back Marsh for $8000 course” The News 8/6/21). The course was approved nine votes to one (I wasn’t present), and it’s essential to look beyond the virtue signalling and grandstanding that can often happen at council meetings. The basis of the single vote against this training had a fatal flaw. Cr [Steve] Holland claimed that it didn’t pass the “pub test” and expressed [the view] that there shouldn’t be an allowance for training. He failed to mention that he is on track to spend more on travel than my entire training budget. In contrast, I’ve spent $0 on travel - I’ll let [readers] be the judge about the authenticity of this argument. On professional development, my view is this. If you invest in people, they make better decisions and deliver a positive return on investment. Sure, $8000 is a lot. Bad decisions, when you’re managing a $250 million budget, cost significantly more. I only wish councillors had taken up a similar course in the past, as we may have seen some better decision making. Anthony Marsh, Briars Ward councillor, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Editor: Each of the Mornington Peninsula Shire’s 11 councillors has a $16,000 conference and training allowance that can be spent during their four-year term. Any single expenditure exceeding $2000 must go before council for approval.

Selective spending It would appear that most Mornington Peninsula Shire Councillors are so out of touch with what is happening within our community that one of them thinks it is appropriate to apply for $8000 of ratepayers’ money to undertake professional development with the Australia Institute of Company Directors and the rest of the councillors (including the mayor and deputy mayor) with the exception of Cr Steve Holland, voted to support this (“Colleagues back Marsh for $8000 course” The News 8/6/21). They voted to support this in a week where our community was facing its fourth lockdown, and many small local businesses don’t know how they will put food on the table, but a councillor who already receives a generous allowance thinks ratepayers should foot the bill for an $8000 course. Many small businesses on the peninsula are up against the wall and nervous this lockdown will last for some time - yet one Briars Ward councillor appears to be more concerned about $8000 of professional development rather than the welfare of constituents. On top of this, four councillors (the applicant for the $8000 included) recently did the Coast Trek walk to support Beyond Blue - do they not see how this $8000 could be better utilised at this time in our community? The new councillors who claim to be all about social justice and the community are clearly selective when they apply their views and beliefs. I think it is disgraceful that they see professional development is more important than community needs at this time. It would appear that only Cr Holland has any thought for what the local community are experiencing with the continued lockdowns. Alina Tooley, Mount Eliza

Training for all The eight thousand bucks would be better spent hiring someone to do a one day “directors” tutorial for all the councillors (“Colleagues back Marsh for $8000 course” The News 8/6/21). I have been on the bandwagon for years that the councillors do not act as a board of directors or even understand the responsibilities of a board and, therefore, are led around with a ring in their nose by the CEO and officers. By not understanding and applying these basic principles they are ineffective in “running” the shire. In reality, if they “direct” the CEO to dig a two metre wide and two metre deep trench from

they have to listen to conspiracy theories from online sources. They are wanting to make something sinister of the Premier’s [Daniel Andrews] fall, in which he sustained serious injuries. I urge them to try and think of something positive, anything, the opposition can contribute to the benefit of the beleaguered Victorian people, presently buffeted by the virus, lockdown and violent storms. Don’t they realise they are only making it so much easier for the Labor Party when the next election comes? Mary Lane, Mornington

one end of the peninsula to the other it should be done. Well maybe, if they ever keep track of what they direct CEO and officers to do and give deadlines and then make sure it is done. Actually, there’s no need to spend any money as it is all on the internet, but maybe that is in the too hard basket? Joe Lenzo, Safety Beach

Party support

Save our kangaroos After becoming aware of the fact that our state government intends to allow commercial harvesting of kangaroos on the Mornington Peninsula, I became quite concerned for the numbers of these iconic Australian animals. Is it not enough that landowners have the license to exterminate great numbers of these poor creatures on their land after applying for culling permits with very little research and validation of the actual numbers of kangaroos on their properties? This practice of killing anything that is of some inconvenience with no or very little control or supervision by state or local governments is very concerning to anyone with a passion for our wildlife. This is how we lost our emus and wombats. When I had a look at Mornington Peninsula Shire’s wildlife policies, I was rudely awakened by the complete absence of any mention of our kangaroos. Koalas get a cursory mention, but any other creature seems to be forgotten. I would encourage our councillors to remedy this omission on the shire’s website and get at least some sort of policy in place to save a reasonable number of kangaroos into the future. It is high time that the peninsula is not treated as if it belonged to the rest of rural Victoria whenever it suites our government. It should be treated as a special place for the preservation of flora and fauna when it comes to its own planning rules, so the shire could introduce and enforce proper conservation policies for land and wildlife preservation. Rupert Steiner, Balnarring

Offset hypocrisy Mornington Peninsula residents are now engaged in a second protracted fight with the R E Ross Trust. In 2013 the Ross Trust proposed to truck putrescible (household) waste from outside the peninsula and dump it in the middle of Arthurs Seat between two wedges of state park. And to do so for 25 years. Notwithstanding that Roy Ross had mandated his trustees to “protect and maintain” public parks. Local opposition was enormous, and the proposal was rejected by the EPA. The then state government stood ready to call it in and can it. It was destined to fail. Five years on, the five new trustees have proposed that the very same site be used as an enormous new quarry extending onto adjoining land owned by the trust. A mine the size of 21 MCG’s, with a depth of 190 metres and to last for 70 years. On Arthurs Seat, the iconic landmark of the peninsula. How would Roy Ross have felt in 2013 and how would he feel now? So far 63,000 people have signed a petition opposing this. Making environmental grants funded by an environment destroying project is hypocrisy, not an acceptable compensatory offset (“Quarry Pays for State Park Trees” The News 2/6/21). Peter Guy, Dromana

Problem roads Blue roadside safety signs by the TAC with statements like “Drive safely because my parents work around here” must be compared to reality (“Campaign tackles road trauma” The News 2/6/21). The reduction of the speed limit from 100 to 80 kph on Mornington Peninsula country roads surely has reduced the number of accidents and the severity of injuries. We can only pray that the shire now makes every endeavour to make our roads more car worthy. Bungower and Tyabb-Mornington roads, nowadays arterials and the main local feeders for

the Peninsula Link, are in a dangerous condition. In peak times, even I lose my temper, place a comprehensive curse on the council and detour from Nepean Highway to Moorooduc via Mount Eliza or Mount Martha, about nine or 11 kilometres instead of two straight up Bungower Road. The same returning. Or I just don’t go because it’s impossible. In tourist season you just cannot get through. Both roads need extra lane widening, but there’s “no money”, except for silly things like new pedestrian traffic lights with the “lollipop” supervisors at the problem school crossing in Bungower Road. Hordes of tourists every summer, including innumerable hoons and, worse still, your typical city/suburban drivers, are a big problem, congesting all main roads and causing dangerous conditions. Suicidal cyclists in the one metre wide special lane often ride on their white line, causing cars to veer to clear them by one metre. The law should be, of course, that cyclists must keep one metre from cars, not vice-versa. The cost of widening some roads is a consequence of increased housing (with increased rate and tax revenue); plus increasing profits from tourists. Brian A Mitchelson, Mornington

Gateway threat The green wedge is under attack again here on the Mornington Peninsula. Bata, the foreign owned property developer that operates with a convenient shoe shop on the intersection of Oakbank Road and Nepean Highway, Mornington, is at it again. Still smarting from the Kaufland hypermart public hearing rejection and costing many hundreds of thousands of dollars in a failed legal defence, it is trying to flog off that large green swathe of green field area at the peninsula’s gateway. While we won once, it is conceivable that profit motivated property developers and conservative business interests such as the Committee for Mornington Peninsula and brewery multinationals will attempt to ram through this building application and proposal for, yes, you guessed it, more concrete storage boxed buildings, shops and possibly a liquor store. What an eyesore that would be - a huge liquor drive-in business similar to Frankston. Optimistically, when all the giant spider crabs are protected and The Pillars lockdowned with steel security shutters and by local laws officers actually fining the jumpers, then perhaps the three Briars Ward councillors could let us keptin-the-dark mushrooms and up to our necks in it ratepayers, know what they are going to do with that building application the threatens our wonderful entrance point at Mornington? Ian Morrison, Save our Gateway Action Group

Thanks to ‘Florence’ I wish to sincerely thank the wonderful lady who stopped her car and assisted me after I had a nasty fall in my front garden in Maxwell Street on Wednesday 12 May. I was so embarrassed and sore, but it was reassuring to hear a comforting voice inquiring as to my welfare and offering assistance. Your immediate action certainly eased my discomfort. Unfortunately, I did not get your name but thanks again dear “Florence”. Please drop in for a cuppa. Graeme Muriel, Mornington

Opposition low How low can the Victorian opposition go? After sniping and attacking the state government, now

I wouldn’t be owning up to being a Liberal National Party supporter anytime soon. Apart from the sleezy goings on with one Liberal MP with a penchant for looking up women’s dresses, they have several alleged cases of sexual assaults and bullying. We’ve got the very drawn out case of the alleged rape of Brittany Higgins who, incidentally, has been hospitalised because of the pressure brought on because of [alleged] backgrounding of her and her family by the Morrison government. This state LNP opposition has decided to get in the gutter by attacking [Premier] Dan Andrews on the eve of his return to office with inane questions filled with innuendo regarding his serious accident. All this of course is to deflect the obvious backlash the LNP would receive because [Flinders MP, Health Minister Greg] Hunt and [Prime Minister Scott] Morrison have been caught dabbling with Medicare again. How dare they cut funding for some surgery. It’s apparent that the LNP relish in this type of low behaviour. I really don’t know how they sleep at night. John Cain, McCrae

Thatcher reminds Reminder: “The problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other people’s money.” As true in 2021 as it was stated by [then British Prime Minister] Margaret Thatcher in February 1976 (“No Handouts” Letters 9/6/21). Bill Holmes, Sorrento

Go Buckley Once we had Buckley and Nunn. Now we have no Buckley. Geoffrey Lane, Mornington

Let family stay The family of Priya and Nades Murugappan were most appropriately residing in Biloela [Queensland] while the various issues of their settlement in Australia were being tackled. They had integrated into town life. The people of Biloela welcomed them into their community and treated them as friends and neighbours. There are still ongoing legal and practical issues of settlement still to be resolved. Transferring the family to New Zealand or the United States is pre-empting the family’s claim to refugee status. Employers are calling out for skilled workers. Here is one - Nades. His worth is known. Those who fear foreigners living in Bileola, or Australia, have no evidence from this family who are proven good citizens. It is hard to imagine that their return to Biloela would cause smugglers to send more people by boat. Reason and humanitarian spirit should now guide the Minister for Home Affairs [Karen Andrews] to allow the family to return to Biloela. Their situation is untenable. They have suffered enough. And they still cannot look forward to a safe and settled future. Peter and Ann Renkin, Shoreham

Blame conservationists It is obvious now with these latest floods that the conservationists should be accountable for the damage they do. Removing all willow trees in the upper waterways and on river banks is a recipe for disaster. The willows were originally planted on the bends of rivers to slow flood waters and spread them more evenly over farm land before it reached the lower levels. Perhaps someone responsible for their removal should have read what Peter Andrew’s has been preaching for a life time. I suggest that they re-plant willows as quickly as possible to reduce further erosion and fatal flooding. Lawrence Marshall, Rosebud Western Port News

16 June 2021

PAGE 9

100 YEARS AGO THIS WEEK...

A Visitor from a Distant Country Eulogistic Compiled by Cameron McCullough TO the Editor, Sir, I had set out the other day to see the district, and took my cue from the finger post near the Post Office and the shore end of the main street. Step by step along the Hastings Road, I could not but admire the view here. Practically in the virgin bush. I stood on an excellent road within 25 miles of Melbourne. The vista reminded me of a distant panorama the other side of the equator. The difference was that the bareness of that land had driven many of its best sons to this side of the globe for the “glorious sake of being independent.” On the way, I had seen the children at physical drill in the playground, living pictures of what children ought to be. There they braced their arms and limbs in the open air, tempered by the ocean, as content and happy as all parents would wish their boys and girls to look under the most favorable conditions. The stranger to Australia often wonders what element gives the youth of this new country such active deportment, but let him once visit the rural State school, and he will have solved the problem in less time than he would by reading blue books and dreary statistics. Further along I had left nearly all permanent habitations behind me, and could only see an isolated tenement, like beacons in a wilderness, spread over this ideal domicile. One building, in course of construction, and nearing completion, is conspicuous. It is a spacious structure, and when

finished will be sure to bring others in its wake. The owner has an eye for natural beauty, and a cosy nest for leisure hours. The grounds seem to have been an orchard, and when laid out, according to present appearance, the environment will be hard to equal within the same distance from Melbourne. On the return journey, I had changed my route to the old road, over the railway line. Crossing the Cranbourne Road, near the cemetery, I had to trudge through rut and ridge, up and down the steep incline behind the Tower House, on to the Skye Road, and thence to the town. I could not but help thinking that it is a queer anomaly that all the main roads show every sign of care and attention, while the home roads bespeak the absence of both. The prosperity of all places depends on good vehicle facilities and railway communication. It would, therefore, be wise to see that the old roads leading to the railway station are put in order; otherwise, Frankston will not expand outside the limit of main road frontage. No sane person would live in a place difficult of access to his “tucker.” The electric railway communication in contemplation in the near future means a great asset to this favoured spot. I am, &c RAMBLER. Frankston, June 6th. *** MORNINGTON Council had just floated a loan of £10,000 and had let contracts for an electric light plant,

when the Electricity Commissioners stepped in and requested them to suspend operations. It is stated that the Commissioners intend providing Mornington with bulk supply from Frankston. The Mornington councillors are very wroth at this upsetting of their plans, and they intend interviewing the Commissioners on the subject. *** AN old ship with an interesting history has arrived at the Naval Base, Crib Point. This is the Countess of Hopetoun, a torpedo boat, which was a unit of the old Victorian navy in pre Federation days. She will be used as a depot ship at the base. The destroyer, Swordsman, escorted the old ship to her new moorings. *** AT the invitation of Mr and Mrs G. E. Shepherd, the members of the local branch of the R.S.S.I.L.A. visited “Malurus” ‘the residence of their hosts, for the purpose of viewing Mr Shepherd’s valuable and unique collection of land and sea birds preserved and arranged in large glass cases. Mr Shepherd gave a most interesting and lucid explanation of the various specimens exhibited interspersed with numerous anecdotes of his experiences in this and other States connected with the search for rare species and also the observation of bird life generally. Following his informative lecture musical items were given by Mrs Shepherd, who also provided a splendid supper, which rounded off a most enjoyable and instructive evening.

GALLERY TALK We are looking forward to launching our winter exhibitions when we are able to reopen to the public, hopefully on Friday 18 June. Keep an eye out on our website and social media for the latest updates. Our winter exhibitions include a group exhibition titled ‘Surreal Landscapes’, Nerdudara/Djumi (Then/Now) 10+1, a retrospective exhibition of Aboriginal arts centre Baluk Arts, a collection focus on Mornington Peninsula artist Rosie Weiss and a new exhibition of women artists from the MPRG collection. MPRG was a joint winner in the Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA) Museums Australasia Multimedia and Publications Design Awards in the information brochure category for our 2020 set of program brochure covers that celebrated our 50 year anniversary. Check out our Instagram feed or website to see new works by local artists featured in MPRG Connect - promoting awareness and appreciation for the Peninsula’s artistic talent. Baden Croft, Steph Bolt, Neil Williams, Caroline Graley and Liam Waldie are the first five artists featured. MPRG will host a range of MRPG Connect events with the aim of facilitating networking, professional

development and mentoring opportunities for local artists. We are launching this project on Thursday 1 July at MPRG and all Mornington Peninsula based artists are invited. Bookings essential. Another new creative project we are excited about is with Slow Art Collective, who are working in partnership with Mornington Botanical Rose Garden and MPRG to present a series of sensory flower-based workshops exploring the artistic potential of roses and other plants as a medium for fabric wearable artworks. This is the first stage of a larger program of events and activities Slow Art Collective will deliver this year. We can’t wait to share our new winter exhibitions with you soon! Stay safe and be kind and respectful towards each other.

MPRG Gallery Director Danny Lacy

mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au Civic Reserve, Dunns Road, Mornington Ph 5950 1580

PAGE 10

Western Port News 16 June 2021

Before dispersing the President of the League (Mr J. A. Nairn), on behalf of the “diggers” present, proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Mr and Mrs Shepherd, which, needless to say, was heartily carried, by all present. *** MR Duncan Mentiplay and family, who have resided in Somerville for some years, have removed to their new home at Malvern. Mr Mentiplay was well known here in the fruit industry, being chiefly responsible for the formation of the Peninsula Co operative Fruitgrowers’ Association, and acting as its manager ever since. Having acquired an active partnership in the International Fruit and Mercantile Company in Melbourne, necessitated his living nearer the city. Mr Mentiplay will still retain a live interest in the local association, and will occasionally be seen in the district. The family were held in the highest esteem in the town, and regret is felt at their departure. *** SOMETHING of an “up-to-date” touch has been given to Somerville by the fact that we have our weekly picture show running. Mr Hanson, whose head quarters is at Hastings, is visiting the towns down the Peninsula each week with a new and up-to-date plant and showing the latest films, which have been much appreciated by good audience here. *** MR Robt. Campbell, one of the proprietors of the “Circular Head Chronicle,”one of Tasmania’s brightest newspapers, is at present spending a brief holiday with Frankston friends.

*** THE attention of poultry breeders and others is directed to the announcement appearing in our advertising columns relating to the current hatching season. Mrs Rogerson’s poultry farm has earned a high reputation for the excellence of its breeding stocks. *** NEXT Thursday night the usual euchre party and dance in connection with the Frankston Seconds Football Club will be held in the Frankston Hall. *** A NUMBER of people who are eligible for Commonwealth Enrolment fail to remember that Commonwealth Enrolment is compulsory until they are charged by the Commonwealth authorities with non-enrolment and have to pay a penalty not exceeding £2 for such neglect. The Divisional Returning Officer for Flinders is showing considerable activity in taking action against persons who fail to enrol and it would be well for persons who are entitled to enrolment, but who are not enroled, to get their names on the Commonwealth Roll without delay by completing and forwarding a claim card to the Commonwealth Registrar for the subdivision in which they reside, otherwise they may find that steps have been taken against them for not complying with the Compulsory Enrolment provisions of the Commonwealth Electoral Act. Claim cards are available at all Post Offices and Postmasters will furnish all necessary information if requested. *** FROM the pages of the Frankston and Somerville Standard, 10 June 1921

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Western Port News

16 June 2021

PAGE 11

THE MEANING OF EXISTENCE... AND OTHER SHORT STORIES

From Pandemic To Pan-Pipes: Haven’t We Suffered Enough? By Stuart McCullough I DIDN’T need to be asked twice. As soon as it was announced that I was eligible to receive a vaccination, I was on to the hotline to make a booking. As was every other member of Generation X, it seemed, resulting in a complete annihilation of the phone system. Often, people complain about how long they were on hold - for the first three days of trying, I couldn’t get to ‘hold’. Instead, I was unceremoniously dumped, with the encouragement to try again at a later time. Then, on day three, everything changed. On day three, I made it to ‘hold’. Which, I feel, is the telephonic equivalent to reaching the base camp of Mount Everest. There’s still plenty of climbing to be done, but at least you’re somewhere. Having overcome the seemingly impossible hurdle of ‘getting to hold’, I now had to face the next challenge to my sanity – hold music. What better way to soothe the jangled nerves of a frazzled public than with hold music? And, given most of the callers were Gen-Xers who came of age in the grunge era, what better way to relax them than with pan pipes? On a loop that plays over and over again, possibly for hours. This was thoughtless. The least they could have done was to supply panpipe versions of classic grunge era songs. Had the pan-pipes been performing a version of ‘Rooster’ by Alice in Chains, it would have been okay. Instead, it was all weirdly mystical and filled me with an overwhelming urge to climb Hanging Rock. Apparently, the ‘pan’ in ‘pandemic’ is actually short for ‘pan-pipe’. Who knew?

After forty minutes, I was sucked out of the third circle of hold without warning and delivered to an operator whom immediately asked me for my name. Still reeling from the aftereffects of forty minutes of pan-pipe music, I instinctively answered ‘Mi-

randa’ before correcting myself. After a minute or so of niceties, the operator asked me where I wanted to be vaccinated. In a panic, I answered, ‘the arm, if possible’. All the images on TV had been of dignitaries presenting their biceps for vaccination, but maybe this

was just for show and that, in actual fact, the needle went somewhere far less photogenic. This put ‘vaccine hesitancy’ in a whole new light. Turns out the ‘where’ was geographic rather than anatomical. I had a choice of Prahran, Springvale or Cranbourne. I was booked to appear at the Cranbourne Golf Club. I was surprised by the venue. I was also a little concerned – I hadn’t played golf in over twenty years and always had an awful short game. I instantly imagined arriving only to be informed that there were only a few remaining doses left, the recipients of which would be determined by way of a playoff. I wouldn’t stand a chance. I confirmed the venue, but forgot to ask which hole. I now had about eight days on which to work on my putting. However, having been informed that I would need to go to the golf club, I began to have doubts as to whether this was, in fact, correct. My sister had been vaccinated in Cranbourne, but had gone to the local Turf Club, rather than the Golf Club. Golf and racing are completely different sports; there really ought not be any confusion. To be sure, I rang the hotline again. This time, I sat on hold listening to what I was certain was a pan-pipe rendition of ‘Spoonman’ originally performed by Soundgarden, courtesy of the Pakenham Pan-Pipe Ensemble. As the pan-pipes weaved their particular magic, I was suddenly wrenched from ‘on hold’ and delivered, shaken and a little disoriented, to a waiting operator. I was told that the call may be monitored for coaching and quality purposes. It seemed ironic that people who use pan-pipes for hold music should

be concerned with quality. It was quickly confirmed that I had a booking and that I’d been given the wrong venue in the first instance. Throwing my five iron to the floor in disappointment, I was informed that I should, indeed, be heading to the Turf Club. I decided to dress like a jockey in order to blend in. I’ve never really been to a turf club before, and I’d hate to stick out. Granted, it’s rare for a jockey to be over six feet tall, but you’ve got to make an effort. Arriving at the car park, there were dozens and dozens of people my age locking their cars, donning their masks and heading for the entrance. Those without a mask were drinking coffee. It says a lot about Melbourne’s love affair with coffee that drinking a flat white is a recognised exception to a public health order. As I approached the entrance, it occurred to me that this was the pandemic’s version of the Big Day Out. Doubtless, the Pakenham Pan-Pipe Ensemble would be headlining the Main Stage, tearing the roof of with their version of ‘Enter Sandman’. The whole thing ran like clockwork. I’d say it was like a well-oiled machine, but I’m yet to encounter a piece of machinery as awesome as the vaccination centre at Cranbourne. The staff were, frankly, impeccable. I’m supposed to rest now but, for some reason, I feel an uncontrollable urge to listen to pan-pipes. Getting vaccinated felt like a tangible step out of the pandemic. I can’t wait for the next one. stuart@stuartmccullough.com

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Vegetation Tree Workers Brennan Contracting is seeking full time employees to join our expanding team in the Mornington peninsula. We specialize in all types of vegetation works. Seeking enthusiastic hard working persons, experience in the tree industry, applicants with power company training and vesi 2 will have an advantage to fill the positions. Applicants must have minimum of: - current driver's licence All other qualifications or tickets will be seen as an advantage Including: - CERT11 in ESI - Ewp licence - HR/MR licence - White card Any qualifications, courses, or tickets will be supplied to the right applicant. Please forward all resumes and enquiries to: admin@brennan contracting.net.au

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16 June 2021

PAGE 13

scoreboard WESTERN PORT

FV ready for season reboot

SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie FOOTBALL Victoria aims to restart the 2021 league season this weekend. The state body emailed clubs on Friday with a return to competition update, a link to its updated return to training and playing conditions, information on the competitions calendar, postponed fixtures and a link to its COVID-19 Football Portal providing information on the biosecurity requirements clubs must enforce. FV also urged clubs to register their matches with the state government’s public event framework to ensure COVID-19 safety for attendees, staff and organisers. FV’s email acknowledged the current circumstances faced by clubs coming out of lockdown as well as the restrictive parameters of the return to training and playing conditions. “This has been a consideration when planning for the remainder of the competition season however unfortunately there may be no ‘ideal’ environment for the remainder of the season,” the FV email said. “All clubs are facing the same challenges and the ability for the football community to be adaptable, agile, and understanding of the circumstances is vital in completing the competition season with minimal further impactful disruptions. “The future is uncertain therefore it is pivotal that we utilise, to the maximum capacity, the window of opportunity to return to competition fixtures as efficiently as possible.” FV reserves the right to reschedule any fixtures for Friday 18 June casting doubt over Chelsea’s away match against FC Noble Hurricanes. However both clubs are proceeding as if this Friday’s fixture will go ahead as FV has yet to contact them about a possible switch. “As far as I know our away game will be Friday night if restrictions allow us to play,” Chelsea gaffer Carlo Melino said. FV has mandated strict return to training and playing conditions and has outlined a range of sanctions should clubs fail to comply. “Breach of these conditions may void insurance policies under the FA (Football Australia) insurance program, may be dealt with under FV’s Grievance, Disciplinary and Tribunal

Back in black: Referees, players, coaches, administrators and supporters are hoping for a resumption of the league season this weekend. Picture: Darryl Kennedy

Bylaw and may incur substantial fines under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2018. “Clubs must source written approval from the landowner (council) before training/competition commences.” Under current restrictions changing rooms are to remain closed and total attendees at matches are capped at 150. Clubs are hoping for these requirements to be amended during one of the state government’s daily media conferences this week. FV’s NPL and Community Competitions Team continues to work on the calendar for the remainder of the season taking into consideration a range of factors including the integrity of competitions, high performance and technical expertise and known facility constraints across different levels of competition. The guidelines for competitions remain as follows:

Did you know... you can view our papers online

Saturday 19 June, 3pm: South Springvale v Mornington – Warner Reserve Peninsula Strikers v Mooroolbark – Centenary Park Brighton v Frankston Pines – Dendy Park

Sunday 20 June, 7pm: Skye Utd v North Caulfield – Skye Recreation Reserve

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Somerville Eagles v Sandown Lions – Tyabb Central Reserve Endeavour Utd v Seaford Utd – Reema Reserve Dandenong South v Baxter – Tatterson Park Aspendale Stingrays v Knox Utd – Jack Grut Reserve South East Utd v Rosebud – WJ Warner Reserve White Star Dandenong v Mount Martha – Greaves Reserve Saturday 19 June, 3.15pm: Manningham Utd Blues v Langwarrin – Park Avenue Reserve

Western Port News 16 June 2021

Friday 18 June, 8.30pm: FC Noble Hurricanes v Chelsea – Alex Nelson Reserve

www.mpnews.com.au

NEXT WEEK’S GAMES

Sudoku and crossword solutions

PAGE 14

Skye favours a 7pm kick-off (5pm for the reserves) but was unable to confirm the switch as we went to press. Langwarrin is the only local club still involved in the FFA Cup and FV is expected to contact Langy this week to confirm a date for its away tie against Moreland Zebras.

“Maintaining the integrity of competitions including the strict promotion and relegation systems in place for senior competitions. “Utilising the remainder of the year including catch-up rounds and finals dates to ensure as many fixtures as possible are played.” However FV added a crucial proviso to its email reminding clubs of the controlling body’s right to revise current guidelines. “Please note, the information provided is based on current circumstances and may change, at FV’s sole discretion at any point in time (especially if there are any further interruptions to the competition season).” Skye United has been caught up in the updated competitions conditions. It had been fixtured to play its State 2 South-East match against North Caulfield at Skye Recreation Reserve on Thursday night but is now trying to reschedule the match to Sunday.

WESTERN PORT scoreboard

Ranveer’s all class first-up HORSE RACING

By Ben Triandafillou MATT Laurie’s promising colt Ranveer showed his class with a gutsy win first-up in the heavy conditions at Sandown on Saturday. The Winning Rupert-sired two-yearold had just the one run in the Spring last year where he ran second to the one-time Golden Slipper favourite Profiteer at Flemington before he was sent for a spell. Returning after seven-months off the scene, Mornington-based trainer Matt Laurie queried whether the heavy conditions would take too much of a toll on his colt first-up. “I was a bit worried,” Laurie said post-race. “I felt that we probably hadn’t done enough for this sort of surface today but I hoped class would take him through.” Ranveer’s class certainly shown through as he travelled outside the leader’s girth before extending in the straight to win by just under a length over the Phillip Stokes-trained deubtant Our Heidi. They put a gap on the rest of the field with another two lengths back to third. Laurie said the colt, who played up in the barriers before the jump, would take plenty of benefit from the experience. “It was a bit frustrating to see that but hopefully he has this run under his belt and he can move forward,” he said. “He looked to be running on empty a fair way from home to my eye… he’ll come on a hell of a lot

from that.” The win brought up jockey Ben Melham’s first metropolitan winner back since returning from suspension. Melham echoed Laurie’s thoughts saying that Ranveer’s ability took him a long way on Saturday.

“He’s a lovely colt,” Melham said. “Obviously, today’s conditions weren’t ideal for him but we just nursed him along as his condition was a bit of a query on the heavy ground first-up. “He’s still a bit colty, a bit rowdy and full of himself but with this run

under his belt, I’m sure he’ll calm down and we’ll get a better idea (of his potential).” Laurie identified another race at Caulfield in two weeks’ time for Ranveer before ‘backing off’ and focusing on a Spring campaign.

All class: Matt Laurie’s two-year-old Ranveer returns a winner at Sandown on Saturday 12 June. Picture: Supplied

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Western Port News

16 June 2021

PAGE 15

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Western Port News 16 June 2021