The Great Southern Star

Celebrating 120 Years TUESDAY, JULY 27, 2010 $1.20

By Helen Bowering andBrad Lester

FISHING would be banned in Anderson Inlet under a propos-al to establish a marine national park, stripping thousands of dol-lars from the South Gippsland economy.

The Victorian National Parks As-sociation wants more marine parks around the state, and has proposed to establish a marine park in Anderson Inlet and extend the nearby Bunurong Marine and Coastal Park between In-verloch and Cape Paterson.

Such a move would devastate the economy of Inverloch, as shing is a

major attraction for locals and tourists alike, said Peter Knigge of the Ander-son Inlet Angling Club.

If a government wants to be out of of ce, introducing these new marine parks would be a sure re way of be-ing voted out, he said.

There is no way the State Govern-ment would be introducing these parks before the election but it remains to be seen what happens after the election and into the future.

Obviously these plans are on the books and if this comes up again, the gov-ernment would have strong opposition from our local angling club and indeed many angling clubs around the coast.

Fishing draws hundreds of visitors to Inverloch and the local area. During

the peak summer holiday period there would be at least 80 boats out on the inlet.

Club president June Laycock has been shing since she was a child and would like see the tradition continue.

It helps keep the kids off the streets and builds a love of the out-doors, the fresh air and promotes ex-ercise. I just couldnt believe it when we heard news of the proposed new marine parks that could threaten sh-ing in the inlet, she said.

It would be devastation for the town, our club and our members.

Ms Laycock said the club was estab-lished in 1953 and people had enjoyed shing the local waters for generations.

Continued on page 3.

Tourism threatFishing ban would crush business

Hope for Henriettas -- page 3.

Search is on: more than 50 people gathered at Williamsons Beach near Wonthaggi on Sunday to welcome whales to the coast. At least 100 whales have been sighted along the shores since April. Watershed Victoria president Stephen Cannon (pictured) pointed to where whales are regularly seen from the beach - the same site a barge will be located offshore to build the nearby desalination plant. To the left is the Bunurong Marine and Coastal Park, and to the right is penguin habitat. Read more on page 6.

Whales welcome here

Dont stop shing: Anderson Inlet Angling Club members Malcolm Mar-shall, Peter Knigge and president June Laycock do not want new marine parks established that would see an end to recreational shing at Inverloch.

THE STAR, Tuesday, July 27, 2010

DALYSTON Foot-ball/Netball Club hosted a highly suc-cessful Harrys Cup netball match and fun day at their grounds on Sunday.

The third annual Harrys Cup is a netball match between old rivals Dalyston and Wonthaggi Power; in memory of the late Harry Kiekebosch, a netball icon for both clubs and the region over many years.

Despite now represent-ing different leagues, the intensity of the match was admired by a huge follow-ing of spectators. The end result was a solid win to Dalyston, who currently sit equal top of the Alberton Netball Association ladder.

The fun day featured rides from Bass company Davos Party Hire, includ-ing a Mechanical Bull and jumping castle as well as face painting and a hori-zontal bungy challenge.

The huge crowd sup-ports the decision of both clubs to keep the netball match alive as an annual event. Organisers are sure to look keenly towards a repeat of the successful for-mat for next year.

A winningconcept

Not scared: BriannaMagro from Blackwood Forest has a go at the Bucking Bull.

Lining up: these local youngsters didnt mind lining up; after all the rides were free! Pictured are Hayley, Chloe, Kallie, Charli, Jim, Kyle, Adam and Jake getting ready for their turn at the horizontal bungy.

Reverse bungy: the horizontal bungy provided a challenge.

THE STAR, Tuesday, July 27, 2010 - PAGE 3

Tel: 1300 132 581- e-mail: [email protected]

The Federal Member for McMillan

Russell BROADBENTWill host a Community Environment

ForumVenue: Wonthaggi Workmens Club

75 Graham St., WonthaggiWednesday, August 49.30 am - All Welcome

Guest Speaker: Shadow Environment Minister, the Hon. Greg Hunt

Continued from page 1.Fishing would contribute about 85 per cent to tour-

ism in Inverloch and a marine park would be a real blow to the town. It would be hard to know what percentage (of people) would still come to town if they couldnt sh, she said.

A lot of people have been attracted to Inverloch because of the shing and have ended up staying in the town.

If these new marine parks were ever to be introduced that would mean an end to our club and we certainly wouldnt want that.

The State Government was quick to rule out any con-sideration of more marine parks in Victoria and the Co-alition has also opposed further parks.

But the national parks associations executive direc-tor Matt Ruchel labelled the governments rejection of its plan as a knee-jerk decision.

The Brumby Government has caved in at the rst sign of debate and deception from the anti park lobby, he said.

This step shows clear contempt for the importance of protecting Victorias unique marine environment, and is an insult to the millions of Victorians who want to see the states precious marine jewels protected.

Its also a miscalculation, as the governments own research shows the vast majority of the Victorian public supports marine parks.

VNPA will continue to push for marine parks as a key strategy to ensure our ocean environment, and the rich biodiversity of the underwater world is protected for future generations.

A report released by the association on Saturday cited Anderson Inlet as having important sand at and salt-marsh habitat and being a feeding and breeding ground for birds. The report states the Bunurong coast is home to a threatened sea cucumber.

Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Gavin Jennings, said the government would not act on the as-sociations proposal.

The Brumby Labor Government has ruled out creat-ing more marine parks and will not amend the current marine national parks before the election or during the next term of government. This is similar to the morato-rium introduced recently in New South Wales, Mr Jen-nings said.

While independent groups like the Victorian Nation-al Parks Association are free to put forward their views, this is not a proposal that the Brumby Labor Government is entertaining.

Shadow Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Mary Wooldridge, also rejected the proposal, saying a Coalition Government would instead focus on addressing Labors neglect of Victorias existing marine national parks and sanctuaries.

When the Labor Government created marine parks, it promised to fund an extra 26 sheries of cers to ensure they were properly managed, Ms Wooldridge said.

However, the number of sheries of cers has de-clined during Labors time in government and Victoria now has 14 fewer sheries of cers than it did six years ago, she said.

Fishing ban would crush business

By Tony Giles SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council was the success-ful bidder at last Fridays auction of the Carinos Complex in Leongatha, paying $1.4 million to buy back some of the fa-cility it sold in 2000.

Mayor Cr Jim Fawcett at-tended the auction and admit-ted to The Star he was watch-ing nervously as the bidding started at $1 million.

The opening bid was pushed along with three competing bid-ders accelerating the price up in $50,000 amounts before it was knocked down to the council.

Council has effectively re-purchased some of the prop-erty it sold in 2000. When we sold that land it allowed us to pick up the Dakers Centre,

and build SG Splash including the dual basketball courts, Cr Fawcett said.

In turn the new cinema was built, which has provided terri c entertainment for the district for the past 10 years.

The council was of the view we should be an owner occupier. We now own all the land at the front and back of the complex including parking, and I believe the purchase ts in nicely with existing owner-ship and uses.

Cr Fawcett said the leases to existing tenants including Curves ladies gym and Carinos restaurant would be honoured.

The complex is situated adjacent to Stadium 4 Cinemas and currently has four indepen-dent leases in place.

Its close proximity to exist-ing council of ces provides re-alistic options for future of ce accommodation requirements,

or for alternative development. It also adds to the land

already held by council (car parking areas) at the front and rear of the building.

We are already the anchor tenant in the complex, with about 30 staff accommodated there, and this will give us some surety for the future, providing us with an immediate and cost effective accommodation solu-tion, Cr Fawcett said.

As other leases in the complex are relinquished over time, we will have the ex-ibility to review our needs and respond accordingly. In short it gives us effective long term control over the property and our central location.

Financially it is a far bet-ter option for accommodating staff than adding another oor on the main of ce or starting from scratch to build new of- ces in a new location. It also

has long term development po-tential should the opportunity arise.

The mayor said that it was also important to keep council of ces easily accessible to resi-dents, criteria which this loca-tion meets.

Opportunities to secure such a strategically located property in the Leongatha CBD are rare, and so we responded accordingly, Cr Fawcett said.

Auctioneer Greg Price from selling agents, Alex Scott and Staff, told The Star it wasa great vote of con dence for this area.

It was a hotly contested auction with tremendous in-terest from this region and throughout the state, he said.

Leongatha is rmly on the radar of buyers as a place to invest in. It is a safe town to invest in, with continued growth.

$1.4 million for prime commercial freeholds

Shire buys up

THERE is still a chance that Hen-riettas may ride again.

After returning from a well-earned holiday with his family, Alan Steen-holdt told The Star yesterday (Monday) there was still a chance the popular retail store and caf could open again in Leongatha.

We are still waiting for the word from the insurance company and thats the sticking point. We should have something more concrete to tell you by next week, Mr Steenholdt told The Star exclusively.

Mr Steenholdt con rmed he and wife Meg had had discussions with landlord, Tony Westaway.

Mr Westaway said he was prepared to wait a bit longer before it was decided how the space would be constructed.

As previously mentioned in The Star, Mr Westaway said he would be rebuild-

ing and would welcome the Steenholdts back if they wanted in.

He is going to give us the rst oppor-tunity to be in any redevelopment, Mr Steenholdt said.

The community has been hurting since the popular shop burnt to the ground in tragic circumstances on Tuesday, May 25.

Fortunately some of the history of the building has been preserved, with the front faade of the former Knights Ga-rage still standing.

We are certainly leaning towards yes at this stage but there are still a lot of questions to be answered, Mr Steen-holdt said.

In the meantime he has been appointed to the sales team at Alex Scott and Staff, Leongatha; more on this next week.

Door open for new Henriettas? Village decision imminentTHE fate of Australias rst zero carbon housing project is in the hands of Bass Coast councillors.

Council will decide on the future of the proposed Cape Paterson Ecovillage tomorrow night (Wednesday).

The village plan includes 200 houses built to advanced sustainability standards and has generated about 1000 ex-pressions of interest in the past six years.

Ecovillage director Brendan Condon said: This is a sig-ni cant moment for Bass Coast and the Australian housing industry. We are still hopeful that councillors will see the bene ts for Bass Coast and the state of Victoria in support-ing a national benchmark sustainability project.

If councillors choose to vote this down the amendment will be abandoned. The Minister for Planning has no avenue for changing the outcome of the council decision. Amend-ment C53, which paves the way for the Ecovillage, will ter-minate at that point.

Mr Condon said the diabolical problems of climate change require a break from business as usual thinking.

Here is the chance for the councillors of Bass Coast to take a national leadership position, he said.

Well bought: Alex Scott and Staff auctioneer, Greg Price (right), congratulates Mayor Cr Jim Fawcett, as Andrew Newton from Alex Scotts Leongatha of ce looks pleased with the big sale.


To view all 2010 grant recipients visit woolworths.com.au

Woolworths is proud to support kids in

This year, weve given 1500 grants to local community groups to help kids lead healthier, more active lives.

Congratulations to:

CG090

Leongatha

Korumburra Cricket Club


Thinking ahead: South Gippsland Shire Council held its nal Sustain-ability Strategy workshop in Leongatha last Wednesday. Inspecting Mary MacKillop Colleges human-powered vehicle were councils sustainability director Andrew McEwen, Mayor Cr Jim Fawcett, chief executive of cer Tim Tamlin and Professor Peter Fairbrother. Read more on page 14.

By Jane Ross

THE people of Bass Coast Shire continue to gamble away millions at the pokies.

At the end of June, just over $17 million had been gobbled up by pokie machines.

This compares with just over $6 million in neighbouring South Gippsland Shire.

Thats a helluva lot of money, declared Bass Coast Mayor Cr Peter Paul.

Its a gure council has got to be conscious of all the time in decision making.

He said council had marginally de-creased the number of machines in the shire (in 2008/09 there were 216) and would continue to look at the need to cut the number further.

Bass Coast Council seems to be in strong agreement to reduce where pos-

sible. We want to do that, to have less machines, Cr Paul said.

Well have to review the gures and analyse them time and time again. It is an issue.

Kerrie Draper, who runs the Sal-vation Army emergency relief centre in Wonthaggi, said she had not seen the latest gures released by the Vic-torian Commission for Gambling Regulation.

The gure of $17 million did not surprise her. Wasted money, she called it.

Ms Draper said the emergency re-lief centre remains busy, with people needing food, food vouchers, nappies, blankets and toiletries. She said some ask for petrol vouchers and for assis-tance with paying power bills and rent, but the Salvation Army does not help with those.

Workers at the Wonthaggi desali-nation plant construction site recently gave a donation to the Salvos and that

is being used to buy food. All donations are gratefully re-

ceived, said Ms Draper.Blankets are particularly needed

and can be dropped off by ringing her on 5672 3077.

Bass MLA Ken Smith, said last years loss on the pokies in Bass Coast amounted to an awful lot of money for a low socio economic area.

He said some of the money would be lost by tourists who play the pokies during weekend or holiday visits.

But, he cautioned: Anyone who plays has to know the machines will always win.

Victorian Shadow Minister for Gaming Michael OBrien, said Vic-torians lost a total of $2.6 billion on gaming machines in 2009/10.

This result comes despite an un-certain economic environment, rising interest rates and increasing utility prices, he said.

Millions lost at pokies

LEONGATHA will get a third child-care centre.

South Gippsland Shire Council is set to approve a planning permit for the complex, proposed for Shingler Street.

Council has issued a Notice of Decision to issue a Planning Permit and will issue a permit within 21 days, unless the sole objector appeals the decision at the Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal.

The centre will offer 70 places.

By Jane Ross

UP to 2000 people at-tended a rally beside Wonthaggis coal mine poppet head in Apex Park last Wednesday.

Many were desalination plant construction workers.

The rally was addressed by a number of union of -cials, including Troy Gray, the assistant secretary of the Electrical Trades Union.

The rally was in support of a South Australian con-

struction worker called Ark Tribe, who was appearing in court to answer charges brought under Australian Building Construction Commission legislation.

Mr Gray told The Star that Mr Tribe was in court as the result of refusing to attend an ABCC meeting. The court case is un nished, having been adjourned until September 13.

The Wonthaggi rally co-incided with similar events across Australia.

Most of the desal plant workers walked off for the

day, said Mr Gray, who de-scribed the turn out as ex-cellent for Wonthaggi.

It was the rst time Id been to Wonthaggi. It was a really good rally. I think the Whalebone Hotel did well out of it too.

Mr Gray said he was unaware of Wonthaggis strong union history and wanted to nd out more about it.

Thiess Degremont stakeholder and community relations manager Serena Middleton, said the union rally had nothing to do with

the desalination plant but resulted in work stopping on site for the day.

Thiess Degremont did not support the rally and did not endorse employees leaving work to attend the rally, she said.

As required by law, employees that attended the rally will not be paid for the time they were away from work.

The Victorian Desali-nation Project remains on schedule.

Protest stops desal work

Childcare approved SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council

has been urged to push through de-velopment in Leongatha.

Council now has ve proposals for de-velopment around Leongatha, concerning commercial and residential projects.

Planner Gary Chisholm of Beveridge Williams Leongatha urged council to pave the way for the Business Four Zone south of Leongatha to be developed.

I cant state how important it is for the long term future of Leongatha, he said at a public presentation to council last Wednesday.

He is representing the owners of the land earmarked for redevelopment as bulky goods retailing and housing, com-plete with parkland and possibly a retard-ing basin.

Cr Jeanette Harding said Leongatha was the centre of the shire.

Lets get down and do something,

instead of having meetings like this and nothing being achieved, she said.

Lets do something about it and get Leongatha back on the map again, because Wonthaggi is leaving us for dead.

Cr Kieran Kennedy said Wonthaggi was booming because the State Govern-ment had declared it as a subregional town.

Mayor Cr Jim Fawcett said both towns offered wonderful facilities.

Leongatha has the largest manufactur-ing activity in South Gippsland, with great dairy produce and is a great educational provider and strong employer, he said.

But he agreed the Business Four Zone had dragged on for too long.

The project was among Mr Chisholms rst when he started with Beveridge Wil-liams in 2005.

Council will receive an overview of the proposals for Leongatha at tomorrow nights council meeting.

Town must grow


MORE than 100 whales have been sighted along the local coast since April.

Those are record numbers.They include four humpbacks

that were spotted between Harm-ers Haven and Eagles Nest on Saturday.

Conservationist and desalina-tion plant protester Jessica Har-rison of Wonthaggi, told The Star she saw the humbacks herself.

One was breaching and arch-ing back to show its white under-side.

Ms Harrison was one of around 50 people who gathered at William-sons beach Wonthaggi on Sunday morning to welcome the whales. Sadly, the majestic creatures failed to attend.

Fellow Watershed Victoria ac-tivist Richard Kentwell of Cape Paterson, played the part of King Neptune.

He emerged with a driftwood staff, having, he said, had a very close call.

He said he felt himself being sucked into something until he had a lucky break and could pull away, explained Ms Harrison, adding that that was a reference to the desali-nation plant intake pipe.

People from as far a eld as Lakes Entrance and Traralgon attended the whale welcome. Members of anti-whaling group Sea Shepherd Australia were also there.

Clouds parted to let the sun shine on the group which enjoyed sand sculptures, speeches, a barbe-cue and camaraderie.

Greens candidate for the State seat of Bass and active Watershed member Neil Rankine, presented a prize for the best sculpture.

Members of Watershed have been logging whale sightings since the mammals returned to our wa-ters in April, on their annual migra-tion. Shy albatross have also been observed shing in the whales wake.

The records are being logged because of deep concerns that low frequency noise from the de-salination plant will impact on the whales.

A second reason is to disprove observations made by the Federal Department of Environment in the desalination plant Environ-mental Effects Statement, that few whales use the Bass Coast/South Gippsland waters.

Watershed president Stephen Cannon said: It is important we make an effort to debunk the Brumby Governments misinfor-mation and its premise this beach is not a signi cant whale habitat.

Vice president Mark Robertson added: The government just cant ignore this information and pretend the whales are not there.

He said these were the same whales that Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett was trying to save from Japanese hunters.

Mr Robertson said the whales are very sensitive to noise and he is worried about the 240 decibels of underwater noise that will come from the desalination plant right in the creatures habitat. Who knows what loss of plankton and food will also result?

Whales more than welcome

You just cant believe the gov-ernment has sited this desalination plant in the whale habitat right in the middle of the Bunurong Ma-rine Park to the left and the world famous penguin habitat to the right and to say there are no whales here. How on earth can you miss some-thing as big?

Supposedly we have inde-pendent environmental monitors assigned to this project. Well we dont know who they are and we cant get any information at all.

If we actually have dead whales washing up on this beach we dont even know who to call.

Watersheds whale watch nd-ings will be aired at a forum inWonthaggi next Wednesday.

To be held at the WorkmensClub, the event will take the formof a community conversation. GregHunt, the Member for Flinders andShadow Minister for the Environ-ment, Climate Change and Heri-tage, will speak, as will McMillanMHR Russell Broadbent. Therewill be time for questions.

Information about the forum hasbeen sent to environmental groupsin the region, including Landcare.The event starts at 9.30am andmust nish at 11.

Whale of a time: from left, Delanni, Nash and dad Rocco Lo-prese, Glengarry, Melanie Mumford and young Adeng Zual, both of Wonthaggi were joined by The Greens candidate for Bass, Neil Rankine and King Neptune Richard Kentwell for the special Whale Welcome day at Williamsons Beach on Sunday.

Kids take up challengeON the weekend 36 Chal-lenge cancer kids and lead-ers took over Inverloch and surrounds for a motorbike camp.

Korumburra Motorcycle Club

very kindly allowed Challenge to use their motocross track in Outtrim to make the camp possible.

One of the participants at Outtrim on Saturday was 17-year-old Matt Furphy.

The Bairnsdale resident was born in Leongatha.

I nd it is a great thing for the kids. It takes their minds off the chemo and harsh treatment, so its a bit of a bonus, he said.

With the very generous help

of local Inverloch community and business groups, the camp is able to offer these kids an op-portunity to get down and dirty, far removed from hospitals and treatment.

Time out: Bairnsdale resident, Matt Furphy, who was born in Leongatha, with father Graeme at the Challenge cancer event at Outtrim.

Considerate action: South Gippsland Shire Council staff burrowed around a tree outside Leon-gathas Memorial Hall last week, all in the name of keeping the tree in line.

Staff installed a barrier to stop the roots of the London plane tree lifting pavers and causing a risk to pedestrians.

Pictured on the job are council staff Rob-ert Hutton and Michael Whelan.

Wandering roots no more


SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has been urged to pre-pare for the fallout of a massive short-age of fuel.

Members of the Tran-sition Corner Inlet Inc. group last week advised council to compile an Energy Descent Plan to manage such impacts of food prices increasing exponentially.

Food prices rose con-current with increasing fuel prices two years ago, as a result of additional production and transport costs, the groups vice president Peter Burgess told council.

That showed how closely our way of life is

tied to the price of fossil fuels, he said.

Some produce may become unavailable.

Every calorie of food consumed demands 10 calories of fossil fuel, Mr Burgess said, and there-fore South Gippslanders should focus on eating more locally produced food.

Council was encour-aged to facilitate this by supporting the build-ing of local gardens and orchards.

There is a lot of food being produced in this community and its all disjointed, Mr Burgess said.

In the area around Foster, you do not need to buy an apple from

AN education precinct for Bass Coast is a fantastic development.

Don Paproth, director of major proj-ects with the Department of Education and Early Childhood development said this following the signing of a partnership agreement.

The agreement is between his depart-ment and Bass Coast Council.

Representatives of a wide range of education providers attended the signing last Wednesday, held at McKenzie Street, Wonthaggi where 19 hectares of land has been ear marked for the precinct.

A new Bass Coast Specialist School has already been built there.

A consultant will spend the next four months developing a business case for the precinct and architects Clarke Hopkins and Clarke will draw up a master plan.

Mr Paproth said it would then be up to the providers involved to take the matter further.

The potential of the precinct was, he

said, astronomical.Loretta Hambly, director of strategic

planning at Monash University Gippsland, described the precinct as very exciting.

Its very early days but precincts in Gippsland are part of education regenera-tion, he said.

She commended Bass Coast Shire Council CEO Allan Bawden, for his lead-ership in trying to make the precinct a reality.

Asked about the possibility of a univer-sity presence at the precinct, Ms Hambly said it was not a bricks and mortar issue, rather one of improving student pathways and optimising broadband and virtual learning opportunities.

Ms Hambly is devoting much time to developing pathways between TAFE and university, whereby TAFE students will be able to gain credits towards a degree.

A new community services course for example, will award a degree and a diplo-ma in the one three year bracket.

WORK on the new Leongatha hospital will start in the sec-ond half of next year.

Construction is expected to be completed two years later.

Gippsland Southern Health Ser-vice CEO Gary Templeton, said yes-terday (Monday) that a great deal of planning has to be undertaken before building can start.

To begin with, a number of buildings will have to be demol-ished. These include the education/day centre and hub that houses the boardroom and various allied health services.

The new hospital will be as en-vironmentally sustainable and aes-

thetically pleasing and comfortable as Koorooman House.

Mr Templeton said a nal costing is not yet determined.

The State Government allocated $20 million in this years budget. Gippsland Southern Health Service will bring that up to $25m.

Nationals Leader Peter Ryan has said in the past that the projected cost would be $32m.

Mr Templeton said: Gippsland Southern Health Service is in the very fortunate position where the dif-ference between the budget commit-ment and the nal cost of the project can be funded by our agency.

He said the project would proceed in stages and the end result would be

a facility that would provide a wide range of procedural and inpatient services for South Gippsland.

Staff will be able to have input.Mr Templeton said sub regional

health planning is nearly complete and reinforces the need to urgently replace the Leongatha hospital.

Called the South Coast Area Based Health Service Plan and Mod-el of Care, the planning is consider-ing the development and distribution of health services locally for the forseeable future.

It has been underway for several years.

Despite repeated attempts, The Star has been unable to ascertainwhen details will be released.

Hospital start date set

Precinct full of potential

Signing on: the Department of Education and Early Childhood Develop-ment and Bass Coast Council have signed a partnership to develop an edu-cation precinct in Wonthaggi. The departments Don Paproth (left), shires director of economic development Patti Wenn and David Lane, Southern Gippsland Campus manager of the Education Centre Gippsland discuss the project.

Act now, council told

Action please: Peter Burgess and Lloyd Morcom of the Transition Corner Inlet Inc. group.the supermarket because there are vast quantities around but you do not hear about it.

The group meets monthly to encourage lo-cal food production and

arrange food swaps.A Transitions group

could soon be established in Leongatha. To nd out more, contact Rick Cole-man on 5664 3301.


Pedestrian v motoristA PEDESTRIAN was struck by a car as he crossed Young Street, Leongatha at about 5.25pm last Thursday night.

The driver was turning from Bair Street into Young Street when the collision occurred.

The pedestrian, 43, has suffered hip injury and was transported in an ambulance to Leongatha Me-morial Hospital before then being taken to the Al-fred Hospital in Melbourne.

Attempted burglariesFOUR businesses in Leongatha were bro-ken into in the early hours of Wednesday, July 21.

Two premises were in Bair Street and the others in Brown and Peart streets.

The front door of one Bair Street shop was forced open, and drawers were disturbed. Police believe the offenders were searching for cash.

Police are on the search for anyone who may have seen someone acting suspiciously on Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.

Booze bikeTHE Bass Coast Traf c Management Unit conducted booze bus checks on drivers at two sites in Leongatha on Wednesday night.

The rst was outside Murray Goulburn on Yarra-gon Road, and the second was on Koonwarra Road.

Of the 342 vehicles tested, only one driver was convicted of being over the legal limit.

The 27-year-old male from the Buffalo area was also riding an unregistered motorbike, and using a licence that had been disquali ed by a magistrate due to prior offences. He also blew 0.158 and as a result his motorbike was impounded.

Suspicious reA HOUSE re that occurred on Saturday night or Sunday morning in Wills Street, Korumburra is being treated as suspicious, according to the Wonthaggi Crime Investi-gation Unit.

At about 8.30am Sunday, a passerby noticed ames and contacted the re brigade. Fire ghters soon contained the blaze.

An arson chemist inspected the damage, which is believed to be valued at more than $100,000.

The re at the vacant rental house has been deemed suspicious, and anyone who has informa-tion should contact police in Korumburra or Won-thaggi.

Vandals claim parkVANDALS have forced South Gippsland Shire Council to close a playground in Le-ongatha.

The playground at Arthur Bentley Park in Green-wood Parade has been damaged by vandals over time.

Council has been left with no alternative but to demolish damaged sections each time the park was attacked, as the equipment is old and not worth re-pairing, council spokesperson Jeannie Hicks said.

The remaining section was removed last week after the latest bout of vandalism.

POLICE BRIEFSPOLICE BRIEFS


By Brad Lester

THE regions economy is improv-ing on the back of better milk prices and strengthening nancial markets.

Most businesses are reporting steady or higher trade despite the typically slower winter trading period now here.

The regions business leaders share sim-ilar stories, casing an air of optimism over the retail sector.

Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Darryl McGannon said Leongatha carries a fairly positive out-look.

Most businesses have still been quite busy. Its also how you make it too. You cant just sit on your hands and expect busi-ness to come in. You have to be proactive, he said.

Mr McGannon, the dealer principal of Edneys car dealership, said the automotive trade industry remains solid.

From our point of view, things have been fairly buoyant, he said.

The end of the nancial year is gener-ally a busier time of year but we dont seem to get the highs and lows of the past. Things for us are pretty stable.

His business is not as reliant on custom from farmers compared to 15-20 years ago, with the demographic of Leongatha and surrounds diversifying over time.

Farmers are still a strong part of our economy but the building industry has been pretty strong, any trade, and the retiree sec-tor too, Mr McGannon said.

I think that people are now considering coming this way as its a pretty good part of the world to retire to. New houses are being built and tradies are fairly busy.

Wonthaggis retail sector has been boosted by the in ux of desalination plant workers to the town, according to Wonthag-gi Business Association president, Gordon Muller.

We have another 1000 people around the place and theyre all spending money. All the grocery stores and the take-aways are travelling well and the clothing shops too, he said.

No records are being set but its keep-ing us out of the doldrums. I think every-body is getting a bit of a share of it. If you go to the supermarkets, its just chockers every time you go in there.

Foster Chamber of Commerce president Karen Pulham reported consistent trade in the town.

Things are looking positive and a lot of locals are staying in the town and shopping. The town seems to be busier all the time, with the tourists we are getting as well as the locals, she said.

We are a nice little town and we offer really good service and people appreciate that and support us.

Retailers remain optimistic

Positive outlook: Leongatha Chamber of Commerce and Indus-try president, Darryl McGannon.


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same operating hours. The preschool services the communities of Meeni-yan, Dumbalk, Buffalo, Leongatha, Stony Creek, Koonwarra, Middle Tar-win, Tarwin Lower, Ve-nus Bay and surrounding areas.

GIPPSLAND artists are invited to exhibit in the 38th Meeniyan Annual Art and Craft Exhibition to be held October 29 to November 2. Several prizes are awarded including space to exhibit at the Meeniyan Art Gallery. The exhibition is open to adults and youth, aged 13 to 18. The exhibition fee of $10 covers up to ve ex-hibits. Any extra items will cost $2 each. Entry forms are available from Tarnya Wilson. Phone 5664 7473 or by email [email protected]. Entry forms must be in by October 15 to be included in the exhibi-tion catalogue.

THE Prom Country Chal-lenge and Fun Run is on again, Sunday, August 15. The event starts at 9am, with a 30 km challenge for those t enough. There are also 6km runs and 6km walks for individuals and teams of four. To nd out more call 5686 2043 or 0428 317 925, or alter-natively email contact@

promcountrychallenge.org.au.

MEENIYAN Basketball Associations new season is kicking off on Friday, Au-gust 6. New players aged seven to 16 are welcome, but names must be in by tomorrow, Wednesday July 28. It would also be helpful if players from the previous season could inform of -cials if they are not taking up a spot in this seasons competition. For any inqui-ries contact Janine on 5664 7591, or email [email protected].

A GIPPSLAND Netball fundraiser will be held on August 15, to bene t the South Gippsland South-ern Health Services on-cology department and netball in the area. The event is a brunch, and will be held at the Dakers Cen-tre, with special guests, raf e tickets and a mini auction. Tickets are $30 and guests should arrive at 11.30am for a 12 noon start.

THE Leongatha Basketball Association is searching for girls for their upcoming sea-son, and of course boys are most welcome, too. To be eligible, children must have turned seven by August 9, 2010. There are no skill

Snagathon: cooking up a storm on the barbecue at the Dalyston Football Clubfun day on Sunday were, from left, Mick Wright, Darren Bainbridge, Brent Ion and Walter Scapin.

Rang my bell: Alex Scott and staffs Josh Dunlop provided the entertainment by ringing the bell to signal the start of the auction of Leongathas Ca-rinos complex which resulted in a $1.4million sale to the council. Alex Scotts Leongatha of ce has been ringing up sales by using the bell for some time now.

Big score: if you were running a bit late for the senior game between MDU and the Allies on Sat-urday you could have been forgiven for thinking you had missed a whole game. If you arrived at quarter time what you would have missed is a mammoth 15.7.97 for MDU to the poor Allies score of one goal. It didnt get much better for the Allies either. See todays sport section for the nal score.

THE Star journalist Bert van Bedaf received a spe-cial birthday greeting on ABC Melbourne radio last Wednesday, courtesy of host Red Symons. Bert is currently recovering from illness and his friends at the newspaper and in the community look forward to his return.

BOB Burden, a charter member of the club in 1968,

remains an active member of the Leongatha Lions Club. Mr Burden was re-cently described in The Star as a former member but despite being aged in his eighties, he continues to serve the club.

THE former Tarwin Val-ley Preschool is now op-erating under the name of Meeniyan Preschool, with the same staff and

requirements, as basketball is a fast and fun game and a great way to keep t and meet new people.

STUDENTS from the Fish Creek Primary school will have a chance to be taught by the best netballers in the country. All kids from Grades 4 to 6 will have a clinic run by members of the Vixens and Australian netball teams. The play-ers include Kath Knott, Tegan Caldwell, Julia Colleto and Daniel Ryan, Australias mens netball captain.

A LOT of people were scan-ning the sea for whales just off Inverloch on the week-

end. They are a magni cent creature and are worth the wait when eventually one is sighted.

MOTORISTS are urged to be careful when driv-ing on the road from In-verloch to Cape Paterson, with the road being a popular route for cyclists at this time of year.

THE desal plant does not seem to have affected the Williamsons Beach area when it comes to shing. A sherman and his son were seen to have caught 12 beautifully sized Salmon on Sunday.

RESIDENTS of Leon-gatha are reminded that there is no hard rubbish collection in the town. A computer screen was seen sitting with recycling and garbage bins out the front of one residence ear-lier this week. People are urged to take their rub-bish to the tip.


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HALLSTON people have called on South Gippsland Shire Council to x their road.

Residents of Dawsons Road are tired of the road surface breaking down and dust being cast over the properties by passing traf c.

Trucks using the quarry at the end of the unsealed road often become bogged, blocking access for residents.

Helen Hudson was once forced to eat lunch on the side of the road, unable to get home as a bogged truck blocked her way.

She addressed council last Wednesday evening, saying the road receives minimal grading and drains either side of the road were never nished.

When its wet, the trucks have a lot of trouble getting up the road and they get stuck because of the condition of the road, Ms Hudson said.

We cant go up the road for a walk anywhere because when a car or truck

goes past, you get covered in dust.Asphalt has been applied to the road

in the past but graders had later removed it inadvertently.

All we want is for dust to be stopped in front of our houses so that it does not come into our house and affect our wash-ing, Ms Hudson said.

Cr David Lewis said council had a re-sponsibility to keep roads open.

When people cant get to their houses because the road is blocked, I think that is a problem for us to deal with, he said.

Mayor Cr Jim Fawcett said dust was a problem on all gravel roads throughout the municipality.

We would struggle to be able to help within the constraints of the budget. If we were to seal the road, that would cost up to $250,000 but we would not able to do it for anyone else, he said.

An average of two trucks use the road every day.

Funds change sparks protest

SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council of cers should have cracked down on councillors spending discretionary fund allocations inap-propriately, Venus Bay resident Colin West told council last week.

Responding to claims by Cr Warren Raabe council-lors were spending discretionary funds with a scatter-gun approach, Mr West said council should have been running the system tighter.

Groups in this shire rely heavily on this money to get projects up and running, he said.

Cr Raabe said: I want the money to be spent more stra-tegically rather than being driven by one individual that can obtain money from discretionary funds year after year.

The problem at the moment is that individuals savvy with the system are tapping money out of council.

Mr West responded: From what you have just said, some councillors are spending money in ways that you do not like.

Mayor Cr Jim Fawcett defended the new system of allocating more money to the Community Grants program.

This is still community money. Its just reorganising the way it is being given to the community, he said.

By Brad Lester

V O L U N T E E R S have called on South Gippsland Shire Coun-cil to scrap its decision to reduce money avail-able through discre-tionary funds.

The topic dominated public presentations to council by representatives of community groups in the Leongatha council cham-bers last Wednesday.

At its June 2 meeting, council decided to reduce discretionary fund allo-cations from $10,000 to $4000, and add the $54,000 saved to the Community Grants pool.

At tomorrows meeting, Cr David Lewis will seek to rescind that decision, after staunchly opposing the ini-tial decision.

He wants councillors to have the freedom to be able to allocate all or part

of a $10,000 allowance to the Community Grants program.

Many of the speakers last Wednesday believed smaller grants would not be accessible through Com-munity Grants.

Karen Anton, chair of the newly opened Mirboo North Bendigo Community Bank, said discretionary funding from Cr Lewis had been vital to initiating the bank.

The discretionary funds are just so important that I cannot stress it enough. I was horri ed when I found out the future of this pro-gram was in jeopardy, she said.

Ms Anton said dis-cretionary funds had also helped other groups in Mir-boo North, including the historical society and child-care centre.

If you give groups a small amount of funding and they run with that, big things can happen,

she said.With more than 60 com-

munity groups in Mirboo North, Cr Bob Newton be-lieved there would be mini-mal funding for each from a pool of $4000.

Cr Mimmie Jackson asked how grants from the community bank could ll the void but Ms Anton said discretionary funds were still vital.

Cr Jennie Deane sug-gested council would be better offering more Com-munity Grants to more groups.

Ms Anton said a local councillor who was always accessible was more likely to be sympathetic towards local projects.

Mirboo North volunteer Liz Morris said communi-ties effectively doubled the value of discretionary fund grants through in-kind labour.

Russell Savige and Bill Brown from Kongwak said discretionary funding had

Council must crack down

Funds needed: Mirboo North advocates KarenAnton and Liz Morris want more money available to councillors.

helped with the publication of a history about the com-munity, the staging of a bar-becue for re ghters who battled the Black Saturday res and the erection of a plaque.

It helps to us to raise money in the community when we see that council is willing to support us, Mr Savige said.

Mr Brown said ap-plications for Community Grants took too long to be processed, whereas discre-tionary funding was avail-able much sooner.

He also noted Bass Coast Shire councillors re-

ceived $12,000 each.Paul Evans, chairman of

The Grainstore youth cen-tre at Mirboo North, said discretionary funding had enabled the centre to con-tribute towards the employ-ment of youth workers.

Woorarra West resident Fiona Mottram backed councils decision to boost Community Grants, urging council to support service towns such as Foster.

Cr Deane said Foster had received 84 allocations from discretionary funds over the years, Leongatha 65, Korumburra 64, Fish Creek 53 and Nyora 23.

Road action plea


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

VOXVOXPOP!

E D I T O R I A L

Roads dismayLIVING in South Gippsland it is disappoint-ing to see the condition of the major highways.

These days a driver is dis-tracted by having to look for and dodge huge potholes whilst keeping one eye on the speedo and the other eye on the traf c.

THE rst session of South Gippsland Shire Coun-cils new trial meeting structure was held last Wednesday.

As part of a six month trial, council has arranged for pub-lic presentations to be held a week before the council meet-ing to give the public more time to talk and for councillors to have longer to consider issues raised.

In the past, public presentations have been held before the meeting, subjecting councillors to new information with little chance to consider the implications or accuracy of the details presented.

The intention of the new arrangements is good. As in any form of government, constituents need the op-

portunity to have their voices heard and the people making decisions deserve every chance to be fully informed.

But there are times when too much information can be confusing and unwarranted.

Under the previous system, speakers were limited in the amount of time they could speak but last Wednesday, they were allowed to talk for as long as they wished.

Two speakers were booked for the evening session, which was scheduled to nish by 7.20pm, with 10 minutes allocated for each speaker.

But the rst speaker was still talking at 7.25pm and the entire session did not end until 7.50pm.

Some speakers were even placed in the dif cult position of justifying their stance as councillors entered into discus-sion with them.

Of course with any new arrangements, areas for improve-ment will be identi ed and acted upon. Lets hope council does so by the August meeting.

A NUMBER of Phillip Is-land residents have raised concerns about the plan-ning process for the pro-posed car ferry that would run between Cowes and Stony Point.

The Victorian State Government, at the request of both Bass Coast Shire and Mornington Peninsula Shire councils, provided funding assistance for the councils to prepare plans for the ferry project, including the statutory planning approvals process.

Bass Coast Shire and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council are responsible for the planning of the project and receive technical support through an inter-agency committee involving government representatives.

I understand the project focused on the Cowes jetty site is based on the ndings from the previous reports (1995 Feasibility Study and the 2003 Cowes to Stony Point Car Ferry Pre-Feasibility Study).

Bass Coast Shire Council is responsible for consideration of the proposed concept plan for the Cowes site and the planning scheme amendment to facilitate the ferry project.

Part of the planning approvals process would also involve referral to the State Government to consider the

Tweaking needed

SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council has replaced the old furniture in the council chambers with a $42,000 collection of tables, chairs and technology.

According to council, the previous timber furniture came from the former upstairs council chamber and limited the con- gurations possible in the new chamber - Meeting Room One in Leongatha Memorial Hall.

The previous furniture was also very heavy to move, and the new tables will have the technology for laptops and phones to be installed vital for when the chamber is used as a Mu-nicipal Emergency Co-ordination Centre.

If this expenditure is going to result in better communica-tion, particularly in an emergency, and greater use of a public facility, then perhaps such an investment is worthwhile.

But one does wonder how so much money can be spent on furniture, especially when the press chairs are not as comfort-able as the previous ones!

Furniture shopping

Ferry push still on

need for an Environmental Effects Statement and Coastal Management Act consent for the project.

The Victorian State Government will continue to work collaboratively with Bass Coast Shire and Mornington Peninsula Shire councils to progress this important regional project in a way that harmonises with community expectations and environmentally sustainable values.

Gavin Jennings, MLC,Minister for Environment

and Climate Change.

Are professional athletes role models to young children, and if so, are they good ones?

They are role models, not by their own choice but by the peoples choice. Naturally, be-ing humans they are bound to make mistakes. Just because they are good at one thing does not mean they will be good at another.

Bill LucasPort Welshpool

The majority of sports people are good role models, but there are others who give the rest a bad name.

Jason BryantDumbalk

They are role models. Some are good and some are not.

John Shaw Leongatha

They are. They dont behave as good role models should though, and I think it affects the kids behaviour.

Robin BrumleyLeongatha North

IT IS of concern to the committee and members of the Tarwin Lower Venus Bay Association Inc., and no doubt many other re-gional community groups that the South Gippsland Shire Council is consid-ering reducing the Coun-cillor Discretionary Fund (CDF) from $10,000 per councillor per annum to just $4000pa.

This fund allows councillors the discretion to grant amounts up to around $1000 to commu-nity groups within their ward for special purposes.

Given that the costs for the operation and management of many volunteer community and sporting groups are on the rise, this decision represents

Hands off fund

a serious funding loss to local organisations and the bene ts they provide.

While in some cases major funding avenues may still ex-ist from local, state or federal sources, the CDF has over the years been able to supplement these, and with the minimum of red tape, ll funding nooks and crannies or provide small amounts to resolve emergency situations.

Most importantly, the $90,000pa fund must be seen as very high value in terms of shire council and community relationships.

It encourages and enables a very direct engagement be-tween the ward councillor and his/her constituents and their concerns.

It is a very direct and useful way to return some rate value back to the community and their voluntary work.

We ask that all councillors vote to retain the Councillor Discretionary Fund at current levels.

Colin Suggett,President, Tarwin Lower

Venus Bay Association Inc.

WHAT to do with de-sal windfall? The BassCoast Council could:

replace the fruit treesmercilessly ripped out whenupgrading roads near LanceCreek reservoir; and

select some little andpleasant country roads to re-main as picturesque quietcountry lanes for enjoying(rather than racing along) andprotect them from change.

Community gardens out-side the towns and townships,orchards, as well as staff tomaintain them for 30 years,would be a fair compensa-tion for the loss of heritageapples and plums previouslyfreely available for the cost ofa pleasant quiet drive and anafternoon or two of enjoyablegathering.

A.R. Vincent.Wonthaggi.

I believe this makes drivingtiring and stressful instead of apleasure.

I had to replace a full set oftyres last year that the tyre deal-er said were damaged by potholes and poor road surfaces.

If the government is seriousabout the road toll, more moneymust be allocated to improveour roads and then keep them ingood repair.

Trevor Browning,Korumburra.

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The single biggest cause of house res is distraction in the kitchen.

So while its tempting to pop into the lounge to watch TV, answer the phone or deal with the kids, remember kitchen res start when your attention stops. And please make sure you have a working smoke alarm.

Visit home resafety.com.au to be home re safe this winter.

ATTENTION...THE KEY INGREDIENT FOR A SAFE KITCHEN

By Brad Lester

SOUTH Gippslanders have identi ed 12 major issues in ensuring the region has a sus-tainable future.

Renewable energy, popula-tion growth and agriculture were among the issues outlined in South Gippsland Shire Councils Sustain-ability Strategy Discussion Paper, presented to more than 80 people at a workshop in Leongathas Memorial Hall last Wednesday.

The workshop revealed residents are already contributing to sus-tainability by reducing emissions, composting, growing vegetables, minimising energy use and support-ing local food production by buying from farmers markets.

Businesses, including farmers, were also assessing the impact of their practices on the environment.

Feedback from the workshop will now help shape councils Sus-tainability Strategy due to be imple-mented by council early next year.

More than 1100 people have contributed to the discussion paper so far. Council research has also indicated that 50 per cent of people asked were willing to pay more than $30 extra in rates towards sustain-ability services.

The major issues in the discus-sion paper were:

renewable energy: using more renewable energy, buying green power and encouraging community-owned energy companies;

promoting sustainable part-nerships: adopting a community approach;

sustainable agri-business: with

about 45 per cent of the regions economy dependant on agriculture, securing the future of this sector is vital. Also a need to improve farm-ing practices, water and waste man-agement and explore the possibility of soil carbon sequestration;

more intensive environmentally friendly agriculture: use of biological fertilisers, encourage food swaps and develop a local food co-operative;

sustainable business: promote green businesses, conduct audits and promote green branding;

minimise use of resources: produce bio-energy, promote com-positing and provide a green waste service;

sustainable transport: advocate for rail services to return to South Gippsland, promote car pooling and use cleaner operating cars;

promote talk about climate change: council to implement inter-nal climate adaption plan and emis-sions reduction target to be set for council;

building resilient communities: promote local food networks, com-munity banking and sustainability groups;

young people and sustainability: train young leaders in sustainability;

natural resource management: reduce litter to drainage and manage storm waste; and

sustainable population: protect high value agricultural land and pro-vide better settlement planning.

Councils sustainability direc-tor Andrew McEwen said a barrier to sustainability was the fact many agencies are working on the issue.

This item came up repeatedly in discussion in relation to the connec-tion between the State Government

and councils, council and council, agencies and the council, businesses with the council, and so on, Mr McEwen said.

Often these bodies have differ-ent time frames, agenda, boundar-ies and responsibilities. It makes it dif cult.

Guest speaker was Professor Peter Fairbrother, Professor of In-ternational Employment Relations at the School of Management at RMIT University and a Leongatha resident.

He believed South Gippsland will continue to be a major manu-facturing centre on the back of the dairy industry and outlined options for dairy farms to use solar heating to cut costs and electricity demand.

He spoke of the need to consider resource ef ciency, the likelihood of peak oil production by 2030 and in-creasing demand for local goods and services.

The Latrobe Valley could eas-ily become a geothermal hotspot for Victoria, replacing coal-powered electricity production, he said. Ha-zelwood power station is likely to close rst, followed by Yallourn B.

People need to recycle more and reduce waste, and more households could grow their own vegetables, reduce electricity use and use green energy.

Lindsay Oates of the Mirboo North Community Shed was among the people at the workshop.

We are interested in providing an ongoing service and thats why we have a community kitchen and mens health. The kitchen is a way for people to pass on their skills, he said.

Future issues laid down

Mixed departments: Courtney Lever, Virginia Stacey, Paula Camerizuli and Geoff McKinnon were representing South Gippsland Landcare Network, South Gippsland Shire Council and West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority.

Sharing ideas: Belinda Brennan of the South Gippsland Landcare Network and Lillian Brittain, Leongatha Horticulture Society.

Broad input: Alan McNamara and Lindsay Oates of the Mirboo North Community Shed.

Tighter bondLAST week Mr Yehudi Blacher, the Secretary of the Department of Planning and Community Develop-ment (DPCD), visited South Gippsland and met with rep-resentatives of council and the West Gippsland Catch-ment Management Authority (WGCMA).

The visit was part of the State Governments long term strategy of strengthening ties with regional areas, and Mr Blacher was anxious to increase his knowledge of our area and the problems we face.

We are pleased to have these opportunities to build relationships with our counterparts in other tiers of government - it is far more productive when seeking support, and we were able to discuss, in depth, key issues relating to planning and

community development.With the continual wet weather

over these past few months it is impractical in many cases for our road crews to undertake repair works on some roads without compounding the problems. We seek your patience until the weather is more stable and ask that you drive appropriate to the conditions for everyones safety.

Along with Crs Harding and Jackson, I had the pleasure of attending the Shingler Memorial Lecture at the Dakers Centre last week.

This years topic was presented by Cheryl Glowery, (principal of the South Gippsland Secondary College and a keen Corner Inlet historian), and related to the settlement of the shire from the western end, forging east from Westernport to open up grazing and dairying country in the shadow of the Prom.

At that time the only access to Gippsland was by boat via Port

Albert. It is an interesting and inspiring tale, and a reminder that many of our residents are descendants of these pioneers who battled incredible odds to create a life in such challenging circumstances.

The establishment of the railway later revolutionised their lives, opening up new markets for their butter and cheese which made its way to the other side of the world.

We are grateful to our local historians who record our fascinating past so diligently for future generations to appreciate.

This week we will hold the rst monthly council meeting of our trial period. We are hopeful that it will meet our expectations, and will welcome your feedback on the new process. It is vital that it is workable for the community as well as council.

Cr Jim FawcettMayor


NEW Zealand is widely regarded as an adventure hotspot and one of the countrys longest standing tour companies is offering visitors the chance to taste more of this re-markable place.

Kirra Holidays combines the comfort of coach touring with options to immerse holiday-makers in the natural wonder of NZ: hiking, sailing, jetboating and cruis-es.

The company was originally known as Kirra Tours and has been operating coach tours in NZ for 43 years. The name change follows the companys desire to offer even more adventure activities.

The special Ultimate Touring program offers experiences for holiday-makers wanting an adventurous edge to their trip.

Jill Carmody of Jetset Leongatha rec-ommends Kirra Holidays after many years of successful dealings with the company.

This is more for people who want to be driven around New Zealand but still get out there and see the sights as well, she said.

There is just so much to see and do in this small country. Its amazing how the

New Zealanders highlight their best at-tributes. Its a destination that de nitely should not be taken for granted.

Coach tours range from a 10 day tour of the North Island and an 11-day Trans Alpine trip to a 23 day New Zealand Ul-timate Tour.

Consider such extra tours as the Hol-lyford Track Guided Walk through the spectacular Fiordland National Park.

Sail the majestic Auckland Harbour on board a 15m yacht, visit the Coroman-del wilderness area, walk or cruise the Abel Tasman National Park or jetboat at Wanaka.

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Dinners are included as part of the package, guaranteeing exceptional value.

Tours of both islands or just one can be incorporated with cruise packages from and/or to Australia.

Anyone interested in a group depar-ture is invited to contact Jill at Jetset Leongatha.

Adventure awaits in NZ

Up close: learn more about Maori culture by taking in a traditional performance.

Magical location: the stunning lakes and snowcapped Southern Alps.

Marine tour: see the sights of Auckland from the comfort of a yacht.


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By Jane Ross

WHEN Lois Roberts entered Carinos Caffe on her walking frame, chef Arrie Kaushik felt concerned.

Are you alone? he queried.Ive just escaped from the aged care

home! she joked.Arrie found a comfortable seat for her

and Lois savoured a tasty lunch.The meeting was auspicious for them

both.Lois loves Indian food and Arrie en-

joyed chatting with an older lady. Both his grandmothers died in the one

year not so long ago and, because Arries mother had predeceased them, his grand-mothers were signi cant gures in his life.

Lois suggested Arrie come and cook at Woorayl Lodge, where she has been a resident for some years.

So on Thursdays, when he is off duty at Carinos, Arrie takes over the Woorayl Lodge kitchen to prepare something spe-cial for the residents.

They love it.The rst time he went there to cook

was on the anniversary of his mothers death and preparing the meal meant a great deal to him. He decided to go back and Thursdays at the lodge have become regular events.

Last week he was cooking his special Arries Stew.

Its beef stock based, he said, con-taining bay leaves, carrots, pumpkin, cel-ery and spring onion. The rest is a secret.

He put all the ingredients into one big pot to cook slowly for 40 minutes to draw out the avour.

The meal was to be served for Friday lunch.

Head cook Chris Rutherford said shed team it with potatoes and green vegetables.

The residents love their vegetables, she explained.

Shes more than happy to have Arrie take over her domain once a week and hes been helping her with recipe details.

Arrie is able to keep up his connection with Lois by having a chat with her when he goes to the lodge.

Ive said to her that she and I should go for a beer.

Shell be in that! declared lodge manager Wendy Roughead.

By Jane Ross

THE Leongatha Library isnt big enough but that doesnt stop a hard working group from rais-ing money for improvements.

In 20 years, the Friends of Leon-gatha Library have bought stacks of books, CDs, videos, ergonomic chairs, other furnishings and funded the set-ting up of ancestry.com

A special room is set aside for ge-nealogical research and more money will be spent on that.

They have also, controversially, paid for an x-box, resulting in young boys who never set foot in the library, coming in.

Friends president Sybil Smith, said the hope is that once in the building, the lads will become interested in other library stock.

There were 102 nancial members of FOLL last nancial year, and new members are always welcome.

Membership costs $5 and meetings are held two or three times a year.

We only meet when we need to raise money, said secretary Margaret Hook.

Last year, spending totalled $4500.Thats done in a variety of ways,

such as raf es, a trading table and book sales; the latter offering bar-gains and occasional rst editions. The books are those no longer gracing the librarys shelves, or others that have been donated and strong volunteers are always needed to carry boxes of books to the sale point in the Leon-gatha Courthouse.

Treasurer Gwen Bruinewoud said

Bigger library hopes

Friends: the Leongatha Library friends group works hard for the ben-e t of library users. More members would be welcome. From left are Gwen Bruinewoud, Margaret Hook, Anne Heide and Sybil Smith.

the groups current project is to try to save up for different library shelving. The shelves that are in there are too high for patrons and staff.

West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation CEO John Murrell, said the Leongatha friends group was one of the strongest in the region.

We have the largest group of friends organisations in Victoria, he said proudly.

There are nine across the region; that speaks volumes.

The Leongatha friends brief is also to encourage children into the library and this is done in a number of ways including sponsoring a summer read-ing club.

Then theres the lobbying.

Sybil is adamant that the Leon-gatha Library is too small.

It was set up during the time of amalgamation of shires (1994) and reduced funding from the Common-wealth and State. Its not big enough and were there to complain!

The friends had hoped that land next door in Michael Place would have been used to enlarge the library. Instead, South Gippsland Shire built storage space.

We need more room for meeting space, book discussion and book read-ing. Leongatha is the principal library for South Gippsland Shire.

As such, it is the friends view that its size should re ect that status.

A taste of India

Friendship: Arrie Kaushiks volunteering at Woorayl Lodge came about when resident Lois Roberts had lunch at Carinos Caffe. They are with lodge manager Wendy Roughead.

g

Volunteering: chef Arrie Kaushik volun-teers at Woorayl Lodge once a week. Head cook Chris Rutherford watches as he chops up some beef.


By Jane Ross

ONE mans attempts to re-store the Koorooman East Avenue of Honour look like bearing fruit.

Ian Lester of Leongatha has a very strong sense of local history and believes the avenue should meet its original purpose of commemoration.

The trees that were plant-ed along either side of Hydes Road are bedraggled and there is nothing there to denote their importance.

He called a meeting at the RSL and 10 people attended, some descended from those for whom the trees were planted.

One is David Shambrook, who told The Star he had been down Hydes Road many a time without knowing its signi cance. His grandfathers second cousin Thomas Shambrook, is one of the men listed on the Koorooman East honour board which hangs in the Leongatha and District Historical Society rooms.

One of the trees was planted in his name.

David said he did not know how or why Thomas came to Le-ongatha because he was born in Ballarat and lived in Melbourne. But he does know that Thomas had two daughters who are still living. If and when the avenue of honour restoration occurs and a memorial sign denoting the names is erected, he will contact those women to let them know.

To have something like that,

its commemorative, said David of the trees.

There should be something there to keep their memory.

David was one of a number of interested people who in-spected the avenue of honour on Saturday.

Lyn Skillern, who took the minutes of the avenue of hon-our meeting and who is a local authority on the districts war effort, said at least one of those who enlisted from Koorooman East was killed during the battle at Fromelles in 1916. He was Phillip Bellingham.

Ian Lester has discovered a family link to another of the av-enue of honours men.

Douglas Curnick survived four years of service with the AIF but died in the 1919 Span-ish in uenza outbreak. He was nursed at the Koorooman home of Ians grandparents Frank and Madge Lester.

In No Parallel, the history of the Shire of Woorayl written by John Murphy, the author notes, Douglas Curnick received ev-ery attention from Dr Horace Pern who made 15 visits to his bedside during the course of his short illness.

Dr Pern stated that had a hospital been set up in the town, he would have sent Curnick there.

Another person whose inter-est has been piqued by the avenue of honour story is arborist Steven Rath. A recent tree changer to Leongatha, Steven offered to cast his professional eye over

the trees. Ian took him there and Steven was impressed with the tranquillity of the setting.

I love trees and I thought it would be a good opportunity to share some of my knowledge and help out with the restoration of the trees.

He said he had no direct rela-tives who had served in war, but his father was in the Dutch Re-sistance, leaving his son with a sense of deep respect for those who have fought for the free-doms we enjoy today.

Steven said the Koorooman East trees were in good condition and he was pleased there were no signs of fungal infestation.

He said he was 90 per cent sure the trees were Quercus libani or Lebanon oak, an old and fairly rare variety. When he consulted a book called Trees in Britain that lists 35 differ-ent types of oak, it was the only match he could nd.

But Signi cant Trees of South Gippsland, written by Mary Ellis and published in 2002, states the avenue of honour consists of 19 chestnut leaved oaks, one Alge-rian oak and three English elms, as well as recent planting of spotted gums at the bottom of the avenue and walnuts at the top.

There is another avenue of honour meeting on August 16 at 7.30pm at the historical so-ciety rooms in McCartin Street. Ian said anyone interested is welcome.

Honour plan grows

Good condition: arborist Steven Rath (left) inspects the trees in the Koorooman East Avenue of Honour with Ian Lester who is trying to have the avenue restored.

MIRBOO North traders have recently completed the second stage of a busi-ness program to enhance the vitality and viability of the centre of town.

Following a series of workshops in conjunc-tion with South Gippsland Shire Council and Mirboo Country Development Inc., the busi-nesses have developed a Three Year Strategic Game Plan.

The 2010-2013 plan has been divided into four key areas, each with its own initiatives:

a centre of attraction for all, and a retreat from the norm;

a one stop shopping experience with lots of surprises, supported by businesses with a strong focus;

instant visibility and easy access to all, with a strong perception of being open for business 365 days a year; and

create the next generation of business owners.

Traders have each selected one of the four areas they would most be interested in, councils business support of cer Alycia Stivic said.

The groups, with a team leader, will undergo a program to help them achieve their objectives.

A support group will also play a key role in helping to unlock funding opportunities, Ms Stivic said.

Businesswoman Jacinta Hicken was amazed and encouraged by the number of people who at-tended the workshops and business breakfast.

The project is being funded by a $10,000 grant from Regional Development Victoria un-der its Bush re Business Recovery Program.

The project is being coordinated by coun-cils Economic Development and Community Strengthening teams.

Traders work for future


By Marli Draper

NYORA man George Hendry and several supporters will y to Kenya on August 31 to construct a childrens centre with and for the local people.

The plan is to accom-modate 150 children in the proposed three room facil-ity, brightening an other-wise bleak future for many Kenyan youngsters.

So many children there are orphaned, caught in the incessant cycle of disease or war.

The Hendry family has built several school facili-ties in needy nations includ-ing Vietnam, Cambodia and Sierra Leone.

Tien Tien, a town in northern Vietnam, was their rst project back in 2005, allowing 300 children to be educated.

They returned to the area the following year to give the centre bicycles, en-abling the children to access the school easily.

Inspired by the support for their efforts, they raised more money and renovated an old school, again in Tien Tien, offering more oppor-tunity for the local kids to further their studies.

Hugh Hendry, Georges father, was there recently and reported 30 children

have gone on to enter university.

The Hendry family are a close and committed bunch. Twenty-three of them were involved earlier this year in establishing a school in Cambodia.

Drawing together, they then offered phenomenal physical and emotional assistance to those less fortunate.

Their efforts honour the memory of Bryn Hen-dry, Georges nephew, who committed suicide in 2003 at the age of 16.

Bryn struggled to under-stand inequity. It is poignant to re ect on the familys re-markable achievements in the wake of their loss.

According to George, the school in Cambodia is go-ing extraordinarily well. All children who wished to attend have been accommo-dated in the school.

Rather than remain reli-ant, George helps empower the communities to steer their own course and offers support and encouragement along the way.

The family has two fur-ther projects in the pipeline for 2011 and the momentum is building. The passion and insight they have for the plight of people with few chances is palpable. Return-ing to Cambodia, another school is proposed, this time in Preyveng province.

The relationships forged

Family changes livesare built on trust and begin-ning to bear fruit. Just by being there, as well as their practical care, the Hendrys offer locals hope. The fam-ily also plans to partner with a group of local Sudanese women to build a school in Bortown, southern Sudan.

Collaborating with an-other hands-on charity, or-phfund, the school in Kenya is expected to be construct-

ed in about four weeks. There is a shortfall in

the budget which may mean the school cannot be built as large as it needs to be.

About $7000 is urgently needed to ensure the proj-ect is ful lled as intended. If you are able to offer any support please contact George or Hugh Hendry or send donations to PO Box 199 Korumburra 3950.

Wash treat: Judy Webb, Janine Hendry and Brooke Sund pamper the girls.

Family time: Tad Hendry, Charlie Gabbott, Catherine Hendry, George Hendry and Tee on the step on their hut in Klic, Cambodia.

Bathing babies: Janine Hendry, Brooke Sund and George Hendry.


AN odd sculpture turned heads on the Inverloch foreshore near the Abbott Street intersection last week.

The Star is unsure whether or it was handmade, but the arrangement of sticks andseagrass looked as though it could have been lived in.

The piece was below the tide-line so it may have even been washed up.

STUDENTS at the Inverloch Primary School are having a ball after winning a competition that has brought loads of new basketballs and foot-balls their way.

Acting principal An-drea Penrose said the windfall came about thanks to school council president Belinda Scott, who entered the school in a Rebel Sport compe-tition and the school won a voucher for $75 worth of balls.

It seems $75 goes a long way, with the school now boasting a good number of new balls that were put to good use by the Preps and Grade 1 students on Friday on the new sports courts.

Inverloch students having a ball

Thrilled: from left, Inverloch Primary School Grade 1 students Lily Smith and Isabella Golding were thrilled to be the rst to play with the new balls won by the school recently.

Ball up: there was fun and games for the Inverloch Primary School Prep and Grade One students last Friday when they put the new basketballs to the test.

A LEADING boat business has enjoyed overwhelming success at the 50th annual BIA Melbourne Boat Show.

Inverloch Marine sold 21 boats dur-ing the ve-day event, and the business expects to sell more.

Salesman Peter Bellingham attri-butes the companys success to an en-thusiastic professional sales team with a thorough knowledge of the industry and quality products.

More people are interested in buy-ing a boat now and we believe we will have enough follow-up sales to see us through to summer, he said.

The company is the Victorian dis-tributor for Noosa Cat and Websters Twin sher boats, and a major dealer in

the Stessco Boat range.Among the most popular boats at

the show were the Websters Twin sher 490 and 520 Runabouts, equipped with Yamaha outboards of 70-80HP for the 490 model, and 100 or 115HP engines for the 520 model.

The Stessco range also proved to be a hit at the show, with good numbers of these boats also sold. Possibly the best value for money tinnies on the market, the Stessco brand ranges from car top-pers right through to off shore models, Peter said.

Inverloch Marine continues to en-joy repeat sales, developed by ensuring quality customer service and after sales back up. To learn more, visit Inverloch Marine at 2 The Esplanade, Inverloch or phone 5674 1502.

Boats sell at show

Sales boost: Peter Bellingham of In-verloch Marine.

Intriguing sight

Natural work: Inverloch beach house of the week.


Goodwill: Inverloch Primary School students bene ted from a goodwill visit from some riders par-ticipating in this weeks Lakes Oil Tour of Gippsland last Friday. Cyclists gave a talk and provided giveaways to students during an assembly. The tour starts on Wednesday, July 28 in Wonthaggi with a criterium race of 33 kilometres. Pictured with race cyclist Harry Rassie are students, from left, Tom White, Harry McGuinness and Harley Wilson.

IN ve short months, Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club will say goodbye to its old shipping containers and welcome a brand new surf club.

Project manager with Loizou Design and Construction Engineering P/L, David Beveridge, told The Star that mid-Decem-ber was still the aim for completion.

Its all going well and on schedule, Mr Beveridge said.

We have six of our builders working on the project, excluding the sub-contractors.

The trusses are all up, the roof will be going on in the next couple of weeks.

Mr Beveridge said the whole Inverloch community is watching the progress.

Being near the surf beach, we have had a lot of passers-by: school children out for surf lessons and guys heading out for a surf.

All are checking out the progress.Inverloch Surf Club president, Philippe

du Plessis, explained the Clubhouse will provide for the operational and social needs of the Club and is crucial for it to continue to grow and to maintain its valuable com-munity role of providing a safe beach en-vironment and emergency rescue services for the Inverloch community and its many visitors.

The new facilities will replace the ship-ping containers from which it has operated for the past 12 years.

He further explained in addition to beach safety, the facility would serve as a quality venue for training lifesavers, other emergency services and many volunteer groups to assist young people to become more capable and involved members of their communities and provide for other multi-purpose usage opportunities.

What a difference: Inverloch will proudly open its new surf club in Decem-ber, going from a shipping container to a magni cent facility. Pictured is David Beveridge who is overseeing construction from Loizou Design and Construc-tion Engineering.

From thisto this!


A CHANGE of management has taken place at Inverloch Garden Supplies.

Paul and Moira Luck took over from the previous owner Dale Willy Miller last Friday week.

They are eager to please their valued customers with friendly, familiar and im-proved service.

Long term employees Jeff Laing and Matt Miller are staying on and Cocky, the sulphur crested cockatoo is also on hand to supervise proceedings. He will give you a warm greeting as you arrive.

Paul and Moira found previous owner

Willy extraordinarily helpful and want to thank him for making the transition into their new venture so smooth.

As well as the traditional supplies such as soil, sands, pebbles, mulch

The Great Southern Star

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