Latrobe Valley Express Wednesday 8 April 2026

Photograph:Katrina Brandon

Michelle Quail, We ndyA rn old and Jo hn Chapman volunteered forthis year ’s Good FridayAppeal,rattlingtins in Traralgon. The local response wasoverwhelming, with Moe in the top10towns in the statefor donations to the Royal Children’s Hospital.

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By AIDAN KNIGHT

FOLLOWING the federal government'sdecision to halve the fuel excise,state premiersand various chief ministersmet thesameweektosee what they could add to help relief efforts

Anational cabinet meeting took placeearly last week (Monday, March 30), but came to no agreement as to what the state and territory governments should focus their approach on.

It was pointed out that each government made more money in GST in recent weeks, following the surge of fuel prices, and on Thursday morning, the premiers decided to use these fundstosupportafurther 5.7 cent per litre slash in the fuel excise.

On top of the 26.3 cents cut by the Commonwealth, this brought the total reduction to 32 cents, from now until June 30.

Nationals Member for EasternVictoriaRegion, Melina Bath, argued this was not enough.

"Without immediate action that prioritises fuel supplyregionally, our food supply chainisatdirect and imminent risk," she said.

"Forweeks, TheNationals consistently calledfor the fuel excise to be halved before it was actioned, but we alsocalled on Labor to prioritise regional fuel security to safeguard food production and the transportation industry.

“Despite repeated clear warnings on the unfolding crisis, the state and Commonwealth Labor governments continued to ignore the severity of the fuel shortages outside metropolitan areas.

"Diesel scarcity and high pricesare already disrupting agriculture, drivingupoperational costsand threateningthe availability and affordability of essential goods on our supermarket shelves.”

The stategovernment has maintainedthe measures are designed to providebroad relief while longer-term supply pressures are addressed at anational level.

The firstlocal servotodrop prices wasSaviges Road Moe, selling unleaded at $2.19 on Tuesday, March 31 -a day before the excisecutscame into effect.While the reduction has begun to flow through the bowser, pricesremainsignificantly higher thanpre-crisislevels.

With global supply pressures expected to continue, both state and federal governments face increasing pressuretobalanceshort-termreliefwithlonger-term fuel security, particularlyinregional areas where reliance on diesel remains critical.

 ELSEWHERE, the first week of free public transport lasted one day before issues emerged on the Gippsland line.

Commuters faced agreatstrugglegettingtowork lastWednesday morning,asV/Line announcedcoaches replacing trains for half the journey at 5.36am. This

Dieseldisaster, train pain Great Friday

was reported to be due to another signal equipment fault in official V/Linecorrespondence,but staff on the ground at Pakenham station wereheard to say it was more specifically "track vandalism".

This affected the very first Traralgon line service, spanning five hours and seven services eachway. Those travelling to the city were subjected to replacement coaches from East Pakenham -usually ametro-only station -while those working in the outer suburbs sat unmoved for an extensive period before also being swapped to acoach.

Ashley Imms travels to work using the Sunbury metro line each day, andtold the Express, "I have been sitting (on the metro service) for over an hour and haven't even gotten to Dandenong", only to be told upon arriving that she would have to switch to a replacement coach to travelany further along the line.

Dandenongstationwas swarmingwith those affected by the disruptions.MsImms says shebegan her work day three-and-a-half hours late as aresult. Services returned to normality by 10.12am that day.

Later that night, V/Line reported another period of coach replacements, after an incident requiring emergencyservices tookplace at Toorak, which caused abackupofmetro trains blocking the way for V/Line rolling stock.

Continued -Page3

No power,plentyofmayhem for Traralgon businesses

By AIDAN KNIGHT

BUSINESSES and shoppers aroundTraralgon

CBD experienced frustrationlastweek,asseveral streets lost power for anumberofhours.

The Express first arrived at the Franklin Street and Princes Highway intersection on Tuesday, March31, the first of three sets of traffic lights police were directing simultaneously.

Staff on duty at thenearby Traralgon train station confirmed that police first arrived on scene at 12pm, shortly after receiving the callout, and would continue to do so "until AusNet sorts it out".

"There looks to be three lots (of outages)", the spokesperson said, describing asort of Bermuda triangle. Intersections affected were the corner of

Seymour and Franklin streets, Franklin St and Princes Highway, and Seymour St and Princes Hwy.

Meanwhile, Augustus Gelato was doing adecent trade, capitalising on the onlookers, curiously interestedinthe police presence,asone of the only stores not to lose power along that strip, with eventhe GrandJunction Hotel havingcompletely shut up shop.

BCF Traralgon, further along the highway, received power earlier than the three listed areas. Staff confirmed with the Express that they did indeedlosepower. Theircompetitors, Aussie Disposals Traralgon,located morecentrally to the town, said the disruption came at the worst possible time.

"We weren't able to serve customers (not paying with cash) -heaps of them -inour second biggest week of the year, everyone's coming in for camping gear ahead of Easter," store manager Steve Asmussen said.

"AusNettoldus1.20pm it'd be restored," he said as the clock ticked over to 1.28pm.

With no sign of AusNet responders outside the store, police officers continued to sweatitout in the sun.

AusNet later changed the reconnection time on its website to 2.35pm. This was delayed further, with it still not completed an hour later.

Across the road from AussieDisposals, Panthers Menswear was relatively unaffected.

Store team member Carol said the traffic lights

went haywirebefore they went out, as she was driving to work.

"They were just flashing orange, the circle and the arrow, and as Ilooked in my rear mirror, I could see they (the opposite side) actually had a red light, butours just kept flashing, so nobody was sure whether to keep driving or not, we were like 'what the hell was that?''."

"The girls in here said the (store) lights flashed at that time too, at quarter to 12."

Traralgon's Bank Australia was left affected the next day, with staff havingtowork from the Moeoffice after the previous day's fiasco impacted the businesses switchboard, indicating apossible surge.

The Express contacted AusNet for comment, but received no reply.

Morwell men charged after cocaine bust

TWO Morwellmen have been charged for alleged links to asyndicatebehind alarge-scale conspiracytoimport tones of illicitdrugs into Victoria and traffic drugs around the country.

The Morwell men are two of nine charged overall, aged between 31 and 72. The ten-month investigation, Operation Bruce Cremorne, was run by the Victorian Joint Organised Crime Taskforce (JOCTF),which includes the AFP, VictoriaPolice, Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC).

Operation Bruce Cremorne was launched in late May2025, when four crew members were rescued after acommercialtrawler sankoff the coast of Port Albert.

The JOCTF began monitoring the movements of the crewdue to suspicions aboutwhy the vessel had travelledout to seainbad weather without equipment usually required for commercial fishing.

Over the following months, police undertook surveillanceofmultiple local boat crews suspected to be linked to adrug importation syndicate. It is alleged the syndicate made multiple attempts to travel into Bass Strait to launch suspected ‘daughter vessels’ to travel to apredetermined drop zone to receive significant quantities of illicit drugs from a‘mother ship’ passing through Australian waters.

The syndicate was unsuccessful in alleged attempts to facilitate any such transfer and no importation occurred.

The Victorian JOCTFexecuted rolling search warrants overthe past month across Morwell, Glenroy, Cranbourne, Cranbourne West, Cranbourne South and Greenvale. Afurther warrant was executed in the Sydney suburb of St Clair.

AMorwell man, 38, was charged with:

 Conspiracy to import acommercial quantity of border-controlled drugs, namely 1.8 tonnes of cocaine;

 Committing an indictable offence while on bail, and;

 Possessing afirearm as aprohibited person. He has been remanded in custody to next appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on July 28, 2026.

AMorwell man, 44, was charged with:

 Conspiracy to import acommercial quantity of border-controlled drugs, namely 1.8 tonnes of cocaine;

 Committing an indictable offence while on bail;

 Conspiracy to import acommercial quantity of aborder-controlled drug, namely 3.5 tonnes of cocaine;

 Possessing adrugofdependence, namely cannabis, and;

 Possessing adrugofdependence, namely heroin.

He has also been remanded in custody to next appear before MelbourneMagistrates’ Court on July28, 2026

Council by-election will be postal vote

LATROBE City Council by-election for Morwell River Ward has been set for August.

Victorian Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel is asking residents and ratepayers in Morwell River Ward to be ready to have their say in the by-election, following the resignation of Tracie Lund.

The byelection will be held by post.

"You must be correctly enrolled by the close of roll, which is 4pm on Wednesday 20 May," Mr Bluemmel said.

"As this is apostalelection,it’simportant to check your addressdetails are correct -this includes any alternative postal address.

"If you’re an Australian citizen living in Morwell River Ward and you’ve recently turned 18 or moved, you can enrol or update your details online at vec.vic.gov.au/enrolment"

Ratepayers in Morwell River Ward can apply to council to enrol by calling 1300 367 700.

As long as they don’t have another voting entitlement in Latrobe City Council and pay rates, property owners or occupiers and corporations can apply to be enrolled, even if they are not acitizen. Owner-ratepayerswho wereautomatically enrolled in Morwell River Ward for the 2024 generalelection for Latrobe City Councilwill continue to be enrolled for the by-election, unless their circumstances have changed. Council-enrolled voters can checktheirenrolment by calling council on 1300 367 700.

"Voting in local council elections is compulsory if you are enrolled. We encourage ratepayers who are eligible to apply to vote to participate in their democracy," Mr Bluemmel said.

"Your localcouncil makes important decisions about yourcommunity services and businesses, so it’s important to haveyour say by voting in this by-election."

Around 6400 Victorians are enrolled in Morwell River Ward, which includes Yinnar, Hazelwood, Jeeralang, parts of Boolarra and surrounds.

Morwell by-election

LATROBECityCouncil will seek fresh candidates for the seat of Morwell River Ward following the resignation of Tracie Lund.

The Victorian Electoral Commission announced has announced that abyelection will be heldvia post this August.

Any Australian citi zen ag ed 18 or over living within theward is required to ensuretheir enrolment details are current.

Any updates must be submitted before 4pm on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

Key dates:

 Electoral roll closes: May 20

 Nominations open: June 15

 Nominations close: June 23

 Ballot draw:June 24

 Voting closes: July 31

 Election day: August 1, results will be declared no later than August 21 Ballotpackswill be mailed out between July 13-16.

Latrobe Christmas is comingearly

By AIDAN KNIGHT

THE tablelit up likeChristmasatFebruary's Latrobe City council meeting, when discussing allocation of funds towards holiday decorations.

Eachyear, an agreed amount is putaside for council to spend on Christmas decorations of variousdescriptions in each town across Latrobe City. It was discussed within the 2025/26 midyear budgetreview, viaa motion from Councillor Adele Pugsley(Moe), that LatrobeCityset aside $200,000 for Christmas decorations this year. Also included within the budget, but receiving next-to-no airtime in the discussion, was the following additional allocations:

 Data collection at Mathison Park, Churchill (following the recent opening of the disc golf course) -$12,000;

 Copyright agency agreement (standard Victorian local government charge for marketing) -$11,000, and;

 Leisure and aquatic facilities strategic review (for maintenance and assessment of the centres) -$100,000.

These amounts, allocated first, came out of the forecast surplus 2025/26, and totalled $123,000 of the $586,000 estimated for the surplus. This left the updated surplus at $463,000, half of which Cr Pugsley proposed, via an alternatemotion,togo to upliftingthe face of the towns, big and small, across the municipality overthe Christmas period. This was seconded by Boola Boola Ward's Cr David Barnes, who then rushed to speak too early -only to be halted by mayor Sharon Gibson for due procedure,allowing Yallourn Ward Councillor StephMorgan to form opposition.

When speaking to the motion, Cr Pugsley referenced resident feedback on budget spending, seeing an "overwhelming community response that they wanted more Christmas decorations".

"Byallocatingmore money to Christmas decorations, Ifeel it would bring more connectivity to all of our towns, but also have the effect of increasing joy of our community at Christmas time,"she said.

The Moe Ward councillor also went on to describe the somewhat dilapidated state of current decorations at council's disposal.

Cr Barnes opened his support by stating that "I think Christmas is agreatthing".

"It'sabout allthem (sic) ratepayers and giving stuffbacktopeople and make their towns fantastic," he said.

"Why wouldn't you do something like that? I think it's agreat idea."

Cr Morgan then asked Latrobe City chief executive, Steve Piasente, if council was expected to have areport on Christmas decorationspresented soon.

Mr Piasante directed this to the city general manager,James Rouse, who clarifiedthat there was currently no such scheduled report, simply a briefing for council on the matter.

Cr Morgan then made asecond inquiry, as to whether the timeline of the funding implementation would shift if it was to be looked at as part of "the actual council budget or the midyear budget reviews".

Mr Piasante said the two haveaslightdifference, as logically deciding something earlier allows for greater preparation time. Questions then materialised from Budgeree Ward's Leanne Potter, who inquired if the $200,000 was "as well as, or instead of?"any existingmoney within the proposedbudget. The mayor informed her this woulddepend on theoutcome of the budgets.

Jeeralang Ward's JoanneCampbell asked if council usually buys decorations, under the impression

they were aproduct of aspecific grant from the state government. Mr Pisente redirected once again to Mr Rouse, who replied, revealing the major towns own decorations, while the smaller towns do not, and are often instead provided asmall grant to organise their own, annually.

His words hung in the air momentarily, before the mayor said cheerily, "well I'll have aquestion too", asking how much is allocated to each town.

Mr Rouse told her it varied from $700 to $4000 per town association, but to all decorations, not specific to Christmas.

Mr Piasente then returned to Cr Potter's question, and informed council thatthereis, in fact, an outstanding budget allocation which he recalled to be atotal around $45,000, "not asignificant amount", which he took on noticetoprovide council amore exact amount to operate from.

Withthis cleared up, Cr Potter asked to put forward an amendment, to which the mayor asked, "are you moving an amendment?". Cr Potter said yes, and mayor Gibson then asked what the amendment was.

Cr Potterexplained that the amount allocated would be in excessof$200,000,noting Mr Piasente's clarification,and askedtoreduce the proposed amount to $100,000, "in lieu of the fact that there's already $45,000 that the CEO spoke about".

"Which would make the total $145,000," she concluded.

Cr Morgan seconded Cr Potter's amended motion, while Cr Barnes opposed.

Cr Potterspoke on heramendment,stating that she agreed with the first three points of the motion, specifically voicing hersupportfor the discgolf course (which has attracted more than 1000 new visitors to the park since January), but saw it as irresponsible for council to allocate so much to Christmas decorations when there was other, more pressing, issues within the municipality.

"It's great to renewand updatedecorations, to keep that vibrancyand the townslookingfestive," she divulged.

"We know that'saneconomic stimulustotowns, to have those decorationsout over the December period," beforeciting infrastructureand capital projects as ahigher priority, singing out for funds within the council agenda.

The mayor was seen to whisper to the chief executive, doing so as Cr Potteremphasised the importance of maintaining astronginvestment in categories that"residents actually expect from us all year round, that actually make abig impact on their life, every day".

"We can always add some more next year," Cr Potter reasoned, "let's see if we can spread it out across budgets."

Cr Morgan agreed that "$200,00 -alot to spend. It's also abovewhatwehave been told what is needed (...) in the report we received."

This amountmentioned was set at $100,000$150,000 -meaning it has nearly doubled the maximum estimate, something Cr Morgan viewed as unreasonable,asking for "a sensible investment into our community, as opposed to an all-out splurge".

Mr Piasente in this time had located documents for the specific amount fromthe previous outstanding allocation. This turned out to be $34,000, not $45,000.

Cr Barnes then spoke to the amendment,however somewhat out of order. The Boola Boola Ward councillor was asked to properly address his colleagues after referring to Cr Potter and Cr Morgan as "the girls".

"We're not infant children," Cr Morgan reasoned to the mayor when she appeared somewhat exasperated that it was being called out.

Cr Barnes then resumed his opposition, getting underCrMorgan's skin by referring to her as if she was two separate people, "Okay Councillor Steph and Councillor Morgan", although the Yallourn representative did not bite.

"WhatIreally worry about,"hesaid, "is it'sabout the 'big four'."

"I think alot of the money goes into bigger towns -Churchill, Traralgon, Morwell, Moe. It's about time they starttogive abit to the little people, you know,they getalittle bit forgotten, and I'm surprised councillor Steph hasn't said anything about that."

It was at this point that mayor Gibson called out Cr Barnes off her own accord, asking him to refer to councillors properly.

"The way it's all going it's not right," he went on

to say. "You need to make it right for people what live in little towns (sic)".

Mayor Gibsoninterrupted asecond time,asking Cr Barnes to speak more directly on the amendment motion of $100,000 being allocated.

"If it's $200,000, how much of that money would go to Churchill, Moe, Morwell and Traralgon?" he asked.

"Fair comment," Mayor Gibson replied. Cr Pugsley joinedCrBarnes in opposition,noting the excess amount the chief executive informed was to be carried over, but saw that the existing decorations were not fit-for-use.

"I don't think $100,000 is enough to get any benefit for the smaller communities who are missing out already," and wantedfor aLatrobe City where all communities benefit.

In asurprise turn, Tyers Ward Councillor Darren Howe joined the pile-on against his usual allies, despite, in his own words,"alistamile-high of unfunded projects".

"I'm happy to go ahead with the $200,000, because it doesn't mean we spend $200,000," thinking of reducing process if it turned out to be more costly.

Cr Potterretorted to the extensive opposition with disagreement.

"The small towns do have Christmasdecorations, we have some beautiful ones popping up in Boolarra, that have been made by the community -we've got fantastic onesacross Yinnar.Idon't believe that every town is going to need to totally refresh," she said.

Cr Potter wentontospeakabout the community togetherness of small towns coming together each year to make their own decorations,involving schools and craft groups. She remained staunch in herargument that $200,000 was too large an amount for such acause.

The amendment went to avote, and was lost 6-2, with everyone bar Crs Potter and Morgan- leaving the latter visibly dejected.

The original motion was then brought back to the table.

Cr Morgan was thengranted theability to speak on her original opposition.

'I'm not against Christmas decorations -Ilove it, in fact", shesaid, but warned it was an unwise use of the surplus, and leaving it at least to the main council budget afew months later would "ensure transparency and deep community consultation".

Cr Morgan wanted to hear the public's thoughts, on amunicipality-wide scale, but was assured by other councillors that residents have made vocal outcry for new decorations.

Cr Howe made apersuasive argument that "every year it comes up that we've let our community down with Christmas decorations, so I'm happy for this (motion) to be in there (the draft budget)".

This was echoed by deputy mayor Dale Harriman (Loy Yang Ward), saying "for the last six years we've been inundated with community members saying our Christmas decorations looktired, dated,tatty, when are we going to renew them".

Cr Harriman hinged the room on the fact that they as acouncil must represent the people's best interests, and the people are interested in freshening the festivities in Latrobe City.

Ultimately, Crs Potterand Morgan conceded defeat, although not before calling it a"rash decision in acost-of-living crisis", and accepted council's decision to move the motion to allocate $200,000 on Christmas decorations.

The votes passed identically to the amendment earlier.

Economicauthority must accept Yallourn closure concerns: council

By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT

THE closure of YallournPowerStation raises many questions and ambiguities for the Latrobe Valley's premier industry and workforce.

Atransition plan from the state government for Yallourn workers is still yet to be determined, and conciselymapped out with just over two years left until its July, 2028 closure, accordingtoMining and Energy Union Victorian Branch President, Andy Smith.

Since Energy Australia announced Yallourn's closure in 2021, Mr Smith said that the best part of five years have been wasted preparing "for the inevitable."

"A fair transition for Yallourn workers looks like opportunities to redeploy into local jobs within the LatrobeValley," he told the Express

"Jobs that pay well, jobs that are secure,and jobs that let families remain where they live, and have lived for many years.

"There is no investment,nonew industry,and currently, little opportunity to present to these workers."

As such,MrSmith said that the angst among Yallourn's workforceis"throughthe roof", with those future opportunities obscured, forcing them to contemplate moving away to work interstate.

"They have to make decisions aboutmoving interstate to find work, and no one wants to be thinking that," he said.

"People want to see that there is aprocessin place that is going to help them redeploy locally, remain local and keep their families in the area."

Mr Smith further stated that this indecisiveness has madethe Latrobe Valley "extremely unattractive for investment, especially large industry" as the unknown permeates.

Signalling blame at Victorian Energy Minister Lily D'Ambrosio, subject to much scrutiny from opposition, Mr Smith said that there is continual inability by the state government to approve new projects that will fill the hole of the coal-powered industry.

"That (undesirable investment) boils down, really,

to the lack of appetite (and) lack of assistance fromthe state government,inparticular, Minister D'Ambrosio, when it comes to approving projects for the Latrobe Valley," Mr Smith said.

However, he also said thateveryone-fromthose in office, opposition leaders, local council, and the industry itself -has failedtoact in accordance to the needs of the people soon to be out of work.

Sincethe new year, stepshavebeen taken in the rightdirection.

In late February, the Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) toured the Latrobe Valley, including meeting with Latrobe City Council and speakingto workers on-siteatYallourn regarding consultation for atransitionofwork.

The consultation sought to understand how workers and businesses areimpacted by the power

station’sclosure, what supportcan alreadybe accessed, and whatotheremployment opportunities exist in the region.

Following the visit, the NZEA's chief executive David Shankey applied for an EnergyIndustry Jobs Plan (EIJP) through the Fair Work Commission, which makesthe finaldecisiononwhich employers areincluded in the EIJP, requiringthem to provide transition supports for their employees.

An EIJP provides training for future work, paid time off, flexible working arrangements,and career financial advise.

The NZEA's firstEIJP wassecuredatAGL's Torrens Island BPower Station in South Australia, which is also set to close in 2028.

During its visit, the NZEA also met with Energy Australia, RTL, andother contractors, as well as

communitygroups and other local employers, whilealsovisiting Regional Development Victoria workshops.

At the March Latrobe City Council meeting, council endorsed its submission to the NZEA, advocating for acoordinatedapproachtoworkforce transition ahead of Yallourn's scheduled closure.

In its submission, council highlighted the significant economic, social and financial impacts that Yallourn's closure willhave across themunicipality.

This also includes the need for timely, mandated and proportionate support for impacted workers, families, businesses, and the broader community.

Latrobe Citymayor, Sharon Gibsonacknowledged the affectonthe entire community and council's wishtosupporteveryone

"Theclosure affectsusand we need to getthe plan right for our people," she said.

"It is imperative that the (NZEA) take on board the points raised in our submission.

"This will ensure that workers at Yallourn,aswell as our community, have security into the future."

The mayor and deputy mayor, DaleHarriman further delivered this point to PrimeMinister Anthony Albanese during council's recent visit to Canberra, emphasising how the Latrobe Valley is one of the most impacted regions during thephase of energy transition.

When raised, the Prime Minister was said to have recognised this and agreed to visit the Latrobe Valley in the future.

Council added that it will continue to work with government, industry and the community to support acoordinated transition that protects jobs, strengthens the economy and supports long-term resilience across the region.

The Express reached out to Minster D'Ambrosio for comment, but did not receive aresponse before deadline.

German coal-fired powerstation nowa museum -Page16

Urgent call for Oand Ablood donations

AUSTRALIAN Red Cross Lifeblood is urgently calling on people with type Oand Ablood to donate as reserves face significant pressure.

With fuel supply disruptions affecting travel in some regional areas, Lifeblood is urging eligible donors to book now and donate as close to home as possible to boostthe organisation’s blood supply.

Morethan13,000blooddonationsare needed until April 10 to ensurebloodisavailable for people injured in accidents and emergencies, as well as for thousands of other seriously ill patients.

Lifeblood Executive director donor experience Cath Stone said while donations surged after the Bondi attack, appointments dipped in the lead-up to Easter.

“We saw an extraordinary response from people acrossAustralia in December, withrecord numbers of donations from the community during atimeof need,” Ms Stone said.

“The need for blood continues well beyond any single event. Bloodisneeded every day,and demand canspikearoundEaster duetoincreased road accidents and ongoing cancer treatmentneeds, at atimewhenmanyregular donors take abreak.

“We’reincredibly grateful to everyone who continues to attend their appointment. If you can donate, please book ahead and keep your appointment -it could make all the difference for apatient.

“Most people who donat ed after Bon di are no we li gibl et od ona te again ,a nd we ’re ask ing them -a nd anyo ne else who

Community Corner

with Liam Durkin

Brilliant bridge

TRARALGON Bridge Club results:

Monday, March 30: 1st Robin Hecker and Don Tylee (63 per cent), 2nd Marion and Kevin Taylor (62).

Tuesday, March 31: N/S 1st Kaye Douglas and Roshni Chand (59), 2nd John Marsiglio and Anna Field (54), E/W 1st Moira Hecker and Helem McAdam (71), 2nd ChristineZarb and Fred kaminski (64).

Thursday, April 2: 1st Geoff Dixon and John Marsiglio (64), 2nd Maria MacTaggart and Barbara Barr (56).

For more informationonbridge, phone Helen McAdam on 0438164 528.

Monomeath

ANY seniors looking for activitiesare welcome to jointhe MonomeathSenior Citizens Club.

The club runs different activities Monday to Friday. New members most welcome.

 Monday activities: patchwork, (needle work) from 12 noon;

 Tuesday: cards (500) from 1pm;

 Wednesday: carpet bowls (1pm);

 Thursday: Thai Chi (9am);

 Friday: carpet bowls (1pm), and;

 Membership is $5 per year and activities $3. Morning and afternoon tea provided. Monomeath Senior Citizens would like to thank Latrobe City for the granttopurchase anew computer and printer for the club.

For further information, phone Rhonda on 0438 322 329.

Chess battles

ACCE PTI NG the draw that was offered by Steve Ahern allowed Dave Proctor to claim prime place at the Latrobe Valley Chess Clubmeeting last week.

There was several convincing wins, as well as two losseseach for both Peter Baker and Ian Hamilton.

Chri sP roct or fini she dw it h the advantage in the five game

match played with Dev Winnel.

The progress was clear for Liam McKenzie, who helped others with knowledge about chess.

Jake McKenzie workedhard to find solutions to all challenges.

Dave Gri ffiths showed al ot of potential and has shown that the opportunitieswill be useful when they are accepted.

Price Samaseia and Cliff Thronton had to take the forfeit options.

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

Parkinson's support

APRIL is Parkinson’s Awareness Month.

Today, 219,000 Australians have Parkinson’s, thesecond-most common neurological condition seen in the community. Parkinson’s affects the nervous system. It is aprogressive, degenerative condition affecting moving, talking and eating.

Ther ei sn or eas on to fight Parkinson’s alone. Join the next meeting of Latrobe Valley Parkinson's Peer Support to findout whatsupport options are available. Family, carers and friends are welcome.

Latrobe Valley Parkinson’sPeer Support Group will meetThursday, April9inthe Gippsland Centenary House Community Room (39 Valley Drive, Traralgon) from 11am.

For mor ei nfo rmat ion abo ut Parkinson’s Peer Support, phone Fi ght Parki nson ’s (for merl y Parkinson’sVictoria) on 1800 931 031 or visit://www.fightparkinsons. org.au/support-for-you/peer-support

Spiritual centre

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

Join every Sunday for service from 2pm. Doors open at 1.30pm. Dif fer ent gues ts pea ke re very week with demonstrati ons from an inv ited medi um follo wed by

can -tobook adonation in the next fortnight.

“Right now, we need more type Oand Adonors, and we know 23,000 of the first-time donors who gave after the attack were type OorAdonors.

"In amajor trauma, it can take up to 100 blood donations to save one life. Many other patients rely on bloodregularly, including peoplereceiving cancer treatment and those living with blood disorders."

Ms Stonesaidthat while O-negativeblood is vital in emergencies because it can be given to any patient when their blood type is unknown, O-positive is increasingly used as acriticalback-up

“O-positive blood can’t be given to all patients,but with positive blood types becoming more common,

acuppa and afternoon tea.

For enquiries, phone Amanda on 0411 051 044.

Join the Facebook page: Latrobe Valley Spiritual Centre for updates.

Acoustic music

ON the first Sunday of every month, GippslandAcoustic Music Club presents aconcert for members and the general public at Tyers Hall.

The next concert is this Sunday (April 12) from 7.30pm.

Playing will be New Zealand trio, The Bidibids, who use Americana, bluegrass and folk influences. The band are bringingtheir lush harmonies, intricate arrangementsand beguiling melodies to Australia for the very firsttime. Expecteverything from soulful balladstoupbeat toe-tappers. Supportact on the nightwill be Gippsapella.

Costis$25 adults, $20 for members/ concession and under are 18 free. Tickets can be purchased through: www.trybooking.com/DJKDP or cash entry at the door.

For more information, go to: musicclub.org.au, Facebook or Instagram @ gippslandmusic

Society elections

TRARALGON Historical Society held its annual meeting recently.

The following appointments were made:

 Barbara Johnson (president);  Marita Rowles (vice president);  Christine Turnbull (secretary), and;  Adrian Crawford (treasurer).

Committee members are: Meg Paulet, Trevor Graham, Noel Harris, Brenda Leviston and LeeMcKenzie.

The committeeislooking forward to another successful year.

Guest speaker for the evening was Rosedale Historical Society president Daryl Wilson, who gave atalkonthe former meatworks at Staplegrove which was builtinthe 1870’sand is of historica land architectural significance to Victoria.

The forme rm ea twor ks at Staplegrove is alarge, timber framed, gabled shed, measuring about 17 metres by 13 metres,with the roof and walls clad with sheets of bark.

it has become essential in emergency care, saving doctors and nurses precious time when atransfusion is needed," she said.

Plasma donations are also in demand, and accoutned for around half of all donations needed across the Easter long weekend.

“Transfusions of fresh frozen plasmaare often usedtohelp savethe lives of emergency department patients by replacing vital clotting factors needed to control severe bleeding,” Ms Stone said.

“Many Australians don’t know their blood type -but that shouldn’t stop them from donating as all types are needed to donate plasma.”

Book adonation and makea difference by visiting: lifeblood.com.au

Use the Lifeblood app or call 13 14 95.

The posts are undressed redgum, the lintelsand beams are undressed round timber, and the roof battens are ti-tree saplings. There were no nails used in the construction of the building.

The bark sheets are wired in place on the roof.The bark wall cladding was held in place with horizontal lengths of undressed timber. Most of the floor is of redgum blocks, with hand-madebricksinthe northern section. In the north end of the shed is an elevatedtimber platform, on which the slaughterman stood to kill the cattle below.

Corrugated ironcovers the bark roof, and the walls have been clad with extremely thin hand-split weatherboards up to 1.82m long.

Atimber skillion has been added on the east side, and atallmodern hay shed built on the west side. Iron ties havebeen added to helpmaintain stability. The building has deteriorated, but is largely intact.

An outi ng to the me atworks was organised by Mr Wilson,with members of the Traralgon Historical So ci et ya nd Rosed ale Histori cal Societytaking part. Allwho attended were amazedthat the structure is still standing. Awonderful afternoon was had by all.

Social dance

ABIG weekend of dancing was held at Moe Social Dance Club over Easter Last Saturday and Sunday there was dancing at Woodside Hall with music from Bak 2Bak On Easter Monday night,adance was held at Newborough Hal. The dance featured the Silhouettes.

TRAMPS ride

TRARALGON and Morwell Pedallers

Inc (TRAMPS) rode Sunday, March 29 from the Wright Street carpark in Traralgon up Hazelwood Rd and along Firmins Lane.

The groupstopped for the shortride aroundthe charming Firmin’s Lane Wetlands and then the remains of the Morwell power station, to the Morwell Town Common for lunch.

The return was along the Morwell/ Traralgon shared pathway.

TRAMPS welcomes new riders. For more information, visit: www.tramps.

org.au or find the group on Facebook. Club contacts are Paul on 0459 823 422 or Vance (0403 662 288).

Trycroquet

IF you would like to try anew sport suitablefor all ages, come along to the TraralgonCroquet Club courts (66-110 McNairn Rd, Traralgon). Flat soled enclosed shoes are the only requirement, and the club will provide everything else including ass ist anc ef ro mt he membe rs to understand the game.

Times for social play are Saturday and Tuesdayfrom10amto12pm and 12.30pm-4pm. Cost is $5. For more information, phone0447 276 783.

Free screening

AFREE screening session for the movie Kiss the Ground will be available this Sunday (April 12)atMoe Library.

The Baw Baw Sustainability Networ ka nd Greater Gippslan d Greens are hosting the screeing, which starts at 2pm. At the event, there will also be a guesst speaker, Gippsland agricultural leader Liz Clay, who will share her experiences as an organic farmer in Noojee.

Kiss the Groundis apowerful film exploring how regener ating the world’s soils, couldhelp tackleclimate change, restore ecosystems, and transform food systems. It features stories from scientists, farmers and activists.

Youcan be apartof Community Corner

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

You can address correspondence to the editor, Liam Durkin.

Please write 'CommunityCorner' in the subject line and nothing else. Deadline is Friday 9am to appear in the following Wednesday issue.

ARC celebrating women through art

By KATRINA BRANDON

PRESENTING asafespace forlocal women artists to showcase theirwork, ARC Yinnaropenedits 40th annual open-entry show, Pretty Dirty.

On March 14, ARC held agrand openingevent for the new exhibitions on show at the gallery.

Pretty Dirty is open until April 26,sharingworks by women, transwomen, demigirls, and non-binary artists.

Pretty Dirty celebrates the realitythat art is amessy business made through labour, risk, persistence andcare. Artistswere able to submit up to two works across all media, including painting, printmaking,digital, sculpture,installationand performance for the exhibition.

Opening the event was curator PollyannaR.

“This is my first curation,” she said.

“I got told in December that I've got alittle show coming up, the annual women's show. When they told me this was their 40th year, Iwas surprised.

“To do something consistently for 40 years is amazing, but to champion women's art for 40 years …Ihaven't heard of that in my lifeexperience,and to know that women have been campaigningfor

my righttomakeart as awoman in Australia for 40 years …isthe bonesofthis place.”

Realising that she wouldhavetocomeupwith a namefor thisyear’s exhibition, PollyannaR thought that, because an artist's work can be quite dirty, she wanted to acknowledge the collective at ARC.

Standing beside PollyannaR was Liz Taylor, who helped share the room's inspiration and her experienceatthe gallery. Ms Taylor said thatexhibitions such as the Annual Women’s Show were incredible, and provided an encouraging environment where all are invited to share their work.

BothPollyannaRand Ms Taylor shared thatARC is aplacefor beginners and experienced artists alike to showcase their work, including those who wish to share their artistic flair.

Alongside the opening of the 40th annual women’s show, ashort-term exhibition, Metamorphosis,was also held at ARC’s facilities.

Metamorphosis, by Warragul artist Dee Ross, is a journey of identity, from urban life to the countryside, delving into social and environmental issues and conveying diverse emotionswith conceptual depth.

The angst of being authentic has led to revealing

abroad view on hope in action for Dee. In recent years, Dee has been experimentingwith ecological art supplies in drawing, painting, and collage.

Dee has abackground in fine art drawing and has beeninvolved with select projects,exhibitions and businesses in urban and regional areas. Dee also recently exhibited in the SOULS Exhibition 2025 and was acontributing artist to the short documentary After the Smoke (2023).

In 2022, Dee was invited to train as an artist with Gippsland Life Models at LRG, in partnership with the Melbourne Life Model Society. Member of an artist-run Life Drawing Group and public plein-air paint outs in Naarm/Melbourne.

The exhibitionfeatured at ARC Yinnarwas Dee’s first solo exhibition.

During the exhibition's grand opening, Dee and PolyannaR shared their thoughts.

“The process of putting together an exhibition is muchharder than the actual exhibition ,” PollyannaR said.

“It normallycauses alot of anxiety, deepsoul searching. And there's one thing to make art with intention, especially when it's political, when it's a self-exploration, when you're analysing your own

values, all that comes up in that process. You've got to really face those things and make some pretty big decisions.

“A lot of people, alot of artists, never take that step, the fear, the insecurity. And it's not without basis. We have along history of artists being punished for their artwork, and when the art is deeply personal, it can hurt oneself. So it's an extreme act of vulnerability to put your art out there.

“I really believe Dee's intention, rigour, and arts practice have elevated our little spark gallery into something I'm very proud to be curator of.”

In light of International Women’s Day(March8) and the featured women’s exhibition currently on show, one of Dee’spieces featuredadiversemix of life models, showing equality, and the idea that everyone has an equal voice to bring to the table.

Using aunique medium, Dee created the piece from commercial board, which she said was inspired by aGeorge Michael song.

The reused commercial board came from an opshop, which Dee explained brings her work back intothe environment and helps highlightthe need for sustainable art.

•

•

Moe’smightyand magnificent

By PEACE IJIYERA

Artworks

MOE Art Society ran its second affordable art sale across three days last month (March 26 to 28).

Held at the Moe Library, local artists and members of the society set up stalls and showcasedtheir works to be bought,or, simply admired.

An array of oil paintings, pastels,watercolour paintings, drawings,cards, bookmarks and canvaseswereondisplay. On opening day (March 26), about 13 stalls were open.

MoeArt Society president, Chris Peters, said theevent is agood way of bringing people who love art together.

"The purpose of todayisfor peopletohave the opportunity to sell some of their unframed works and just give people the opportunity to buy them at affordable prices," she said. Ms Peters said her favourite part of the three day event was "seeing everybody's art".

"Everyone produces different works, its just interesting."

Ms Petersisanavid painter herself, specialising in oil painting and pastels.

The Moe Art Society first began in 1944.

Though it stopped operating for awhile, it resumed in the 1970's and has been going ever since.

The group meets every Thursday from9.30am

at the Moe Library.Atits weeklymeetings, members bring art projects and work on them. They also use this time to learn new techniques.

More than just art, the group brings the community togetherand encourages everyone to unleash their inner Picasso.

Alina Wensierski has been apartofthe group for three years, buthas been painting since she was ayoung child. Her first art award was given to her by her primary school teacher. This inspired her love for art. Ms Wensierski sees art as aform of self expression.

"Each of them (art pieces) represents something to someone else, not onlytome. That's why I don't put titles, because. it's up to individuals."

"Because we areall free people andgot different imagination, that's whyits free choice. Once you put atitle on it, you're just kinda stuck to it. But Ilike to be free."

For alot of the artists, painting and creating abodyofwork is relaxing and the end result rewarding.

Like Ms Wensierski, award winning artist Halina Taig alsouses art as aform of self expression. She enjoys"creatingdifferent textures" and draws inspiration from English painter JosephMallord William Turner.Thisisseen through Ms Taig's use of red, orange and yellow in her pieces.

Investing in infrastructure

YALLOURN North Fire Brigade has taken a proactive steptoenhancefirefighter andstation safety,through the installationofa specialised lithium battery charging cabinet.

Agenerous donation was made by the local Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes, recognising the importance of infrastructure investment for both brigade members and the wider community

Captain of the Yallourn North Fire Brigade, Hayley King said that the safety-conscious initiative reflects the brigade's commitment to evolving risks.

"The safety of our members and our station is always ourhighest priority, with theincreasing use of lithium battery-powered equipment, it was important for us to invest in infrastructure that reduces risk and protects our operation capability," she said.

"We are seeing more incidents involving lithium batteries, particularly where batteries have been damaged or incorrectlycharged, having adedicated, fire-related charging cabinet providedanadded layer of protection.

"We are incredibly grateful to the Buffs for their support. Their contribution has enabled us to implement an important safety measure that benefits both our firefighters and the wider Yallourn North community."

Jacob McKenzie of the Yallourn North Buffaloes groupsaidthat community is always at the heart of local philanthropy.

"We are proud to continue to support the Yallourn North Urban Fire Brigade," he said.

"We also support other communitygroups including the scouts (and) local schools."

The cabinet is designed specifically to safely charge and store lithium-ion batteries, which are increasingly used in modern firefighting equipment.

The unit is fire-rated, insulated and fitted with individualcoolingfans on each shelf to regulate temperature and reduce the risk of overheating.

In the event of abattery failure or fire, the cabinet is designed to contain the incident and minimise damage to surrounding infrastructure.

The brigade has significantly increased its use of battery-powered tools, including positive pressure fans,chainsaws, blowers and demolition saws.

This transitionhas improvedoperational efficiency, reduced emissions and enhanced usability in emergency environments.

The brigade now manages and maintains more than 30 rechargeable lithium batteries onsite.

Lithiumbatteries are an emerging risk,often caused by physical damage, incorrect charging, or overheating.

Given the demanding environments firefighters operatein, equipment is at higherriskofwear and damage, makingsafe storage and chargingcritical.

The installation of the charging cabinet is akey risk mitigation measure to protect the station, its appliances and operational capability.

Afirewithin the station could significantly impact emergency response capacity, potentially leaving the community without timely support.

Yallourn NorthFire Brigade emphasises that all donationsare treatedaspublic fundsare carefully allocated to maximise community safetyoutcomes.

Investment decisions prioritise both firefighters

safety and the brigade's ability to deliver reliable emergency services.

While specialised charging cabinets may not be practical for most households,there are important stepsresidents can take to reduce battery fire risks:

 Always use the correct charger that matches the device specifications;

 Ensure chargers and devices meet Australian safety standards;

 Regularly inspect batteries for signs of damage, swelling or overheating, and;

 Avoid charging devices on soft surfaces such as beds or couches, where heat can build up.

For more information on lithium battery safety, visit the Country Fire Authority website.

Haycan still heat in cool weather

COOL conditions across Victoria may suggest reduced haystackfire risk, but moist hay continues to heat internally and remains a significant hazard.

Producers are urged to maintain regular monitoring of baled and stacked hay, as no current technology reliably tracks internal hay temperatures.

Agriculture Victoria dairyextension officer, Michele Jolliffe said the real danger in hay is what you can’t see, so regular checks remain the strongest protection against fire.

"Simple actions like testing temperatures and watching for warning signs can prevent aheating haystackfrom becoming adangerous ignition," Ms Jolliffe said.

"Warning signssuch as steam, roof condensation,mould, acrid smells or humid air near stacks should prompt immediate checks to prevent heat buildupand potential ignition.

"Most heating occurs within the first fortnight after baling, although hay can still reach ignition point up to eight weeks later especially during fluctuating autumn temperatures.

"Cooler weather can hide the risk, but moisture in hay can still sparktroubleif vigilance drops."

Using acrowbar inserted for two hours remains an effective temperature test, and abar too hot to hold indicates adangerous internal temperature above 70°C.

If hay is heating, stacks should be carefully pulled apart to release heat,with water supply and trained personnel on standby to prevent ignition.

Producersshould avoid walking on stacks due to potential internal charring, any extra weight on the stack may cause the stack to collapse and cause serious injury.

If there is the slightest risk of afire starting due to wet hay, never keep machinery in the hayshed and don’t allow children to play in or near heating stacks.

Further information on hay fire risks is available on the CFA website, and seasonal support is accessibleat: agriculture.vic.gov. au or by calling 136186.

Gippsland Railway Dogstory enshrined

By KATRINA BRANDON

THE true blue Australian dog,the Australian kelpie, has many walksofnews throughouthistory.

Celebrating Gippsland’s red dog, artist Jo Caminiti unveiled three metal railway dog sculptures at Glengarry Railway Station last month.

On the day before National Puppy Day (March 23), about 70 people attended with their pups to watch the installation of the Glengarry Railway Dog.

The story of the Gippsland Railway Dog hails from anews story from The Herald (December 2, 1935).

The headline read 'Gippsland’s Wonder Dog

Gippslander: Followingthe tale of the Gippsland RailwayDog,three statues aretobe installedatGlengarr y, Cowwarr andToongabbie

Believes in Two Means of Locomotion', featuring a story of adog that frequented the train line.

“This quirky tale, The Herald told at the bottom of the pageinbold, Gippsland's Wonder Dog believes in two means of locomotion,” Ms Caminiti told the crowd.

“The railway dog, as she was known, called the Traralgontrainyards her home, and no one owner, though she claimed, lived very well indeed, subsisting on the lunchtime boom of scraps from the refreshment room that servedthe weary travellers awaiting their iron steed.”

Being afrequentflyer on theTraralgon to Stratford line, the kelpie took alittle bit longer to get to the station, only to miss the train. Chasing the train from station to station, dodging vehicles along the line, the pup ran all the way to Cowwarr, onlytomiss the train at the third stop and wait forthe return train back home.

Inspired by the story, Ms Caminitihas been working on creating the Railway Dog, whichis stationed at each of the stops along the old train line in Glengarry, Toonagabbie and Cowwarr.

After three years of work, Ms Caminiti told the Express it was exciting to finally let them out into the world.

“It'samazing to finally let them out into the wild so peoplecan enjoy them,which was the whole point of bringing history to life with the story of the same railway dogs,” she said.

“I think it's marvellous, because so many people have been following along on the journey on social media and they haven't been able to see it. They've

only seen it on their little screen, so now it's here for everyone to enjoy.

“As soon as Iread the article about the railway dogs, Iimmediately saw three sculptures. It actuallytookjustthreeyears to bringitinto being. What keeps me going is that curiosity, the challenge, both like it's multiple challenges. There's acreative challenge of making something.”

Ms Caminitigrewuponadairy farm in northern Victoria, but her father came from afarm in Dollar in South Gippsland. Her dad married acity girl, whose sister had bragged about “bagging afarmer in Flynn”, only for her to do the same.

Transitioning from acity girl to afarm girl, her mum became aherd tester in northern Victoria.

Setting the inspirational spark for Ms Caminiti, her father was aself-taught welder who stripped materials from old, out-of-use objects.

Unfortunately, Ms Caminiti never had the opportunity to try stick welding with her father on the farm, but she said it inspired her to make things outofscrap metal. After going out and buying a welder for her 50th birthday, Ms Caminiti learnt her craft on YouTube.

Around the time Ms Caminiti learnt to weld, there was an unexpected redundancy in her role, leaving her to scramble back on the corporate cliff in natural resource management or jump off and do art fulltime.

“It's been awild ride,” she said.

“There's beenexhibitions,and there's been art residencies, both here and overseas.There have been public and privatecommissions,and this

one, for the last few years, has sort of occupied all the available creative space in my mind.

“Whatkeeps me going is that curiosity, the challenge, bothlike it's multiple challenges. There's a creative challengeinmaking something. But then there'sthe technical challenges of turning that sort of stuff into these things. And you have to learn all sorts of new skills, welding skills, blacksmithing skills, I'm an armchair blacksmith expert …I've watched every series of Forged in Fire.” Ms Caminiti talked about the first experience of reshaping ahorseshoe and learning the right way of holding things while shaping them or working with them to make rustic sculptures.

Throughouther journey, Ms Caminitihas met and been inspired by many scrap metal artists, learningbitsand pieces along the way to help guide her when roadblocks pop up.

“Artist Cindy Chinn invited me over to Nebraska, to astudiotodoacollab late in 2024,” Ms Caminiti said.

“We had adiscussion aboutdog tongues. She was making dogsout of recycled biketyres. And she found this perfect bit of rubber for the tongue. And Isaid, and I'dbeen busyworking on the tongue of this one. And Isaid, 'Oh, that tongue is just perfect'.She jumpedinto my messengerand asked if Iwantedtocome for aresidency in the States.”

Jumping on the welding trend at 50, Ms Caminiti said that while challenging, the experience of learning to weld and taking the opportunity to become an artist was incredible, and that it is never truly too late.

Music school of thought

TRIPLE J's new artist discovery department, Unearthed,has justopened it'sdoorstoanother year of entrants for itsprestigious high school artist competition.

UnearthedHigh has been theflagshipinitiative of the youth station's calendar since 2008, and is one of the wider Triple Jnetwork's key events behind

Could be you: Is the next Thomas Headon waiting to be foundinGippsland? The Traralgon local has gone on to makewaves in music, performingalongside industry giants likeElton John. File photograph

The Hottest 100 each year.

Notable acts discovered through the competition include Montaigne, Gretta Ray, Hockey Dad, and The Kid Laroi. In 2016, Unearthed High expanded to two categories, with anew Indigenous Initiative sectionincluded.

To enter, artist must be in, or in the context of a group, have 50 per cent of its members currently in high school or equivalent training, and upload an original song to the Unearthedwebsite, and tick the box 'enter Unearthed High'.

The winner will be flown by Triple J"from wherever the hell they live",for aone-on-one writingsession withtheir choice of the following four Australian artists, in auniquementoring opportunity:

 GFlip;  Genesis Owusu;  The Rions, or;  Kinder.

Outsideofthe competition,Unearthed is credited for the rise of names likeFlume,CourtneyBarnett, Vance Joy, Missy Higgins, and Grinspoon.

Entries for Unearthed High are now open on the Triple JUnearthed website, and any budding musicians and producers within Gippsland who meet the criteria are encouraged to submit their songs before Monday, May 11, 2026.

Winners are typically announced by August the same year.

Workplace safety heightened

THE state government is continuing to crackdown on bosses who breach safety obligations ensuring.

Deputy Premier and Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Ben Carroll has announced that bosses who breach falls safety standards doubled their chanceoflanding in court last year -with WorkSafe charging 67 employers with falls-related breaches and issuing $3.75 million in court fines, morethan twice the number of charges and fines in 2024.

There is no excuse for employers failing to keep workers safe when working from heights, with WorkSafe tightening its enforcement approach to catch offending bossesbefore safety breaches lead to death or injury.

Tragically, 11 workers were killed by afall from height last year, with the vast majority in the construction industry.

This means more needs to be done -not only through enforcement, but also by investing in falls education.

Construction businesses with up to 200 employees can now access afreeonlinefalls prevention program to learn how to reduce risk, protect workers and support safe work.

WorkSafe’s latest campaign focusing on falls safety also started this month, running across print, radio, outdoor, social media and online until the end of June.

The campaign also covers manual handling -the number one causeofinjuries in construction, and silica dust -amajor preventable hazard in the sector.

WorkSafe chief health and safety officer Sam Jenkin said safety should always be the absolute top priority.

“It doesn’tmatter howquick the job is or how many times it’s been done before -every time you send someone to work at heights without proper fallprevention, you’re putting their life at risk," he said.

“We also recognisethat while falls are preventable-manyemployers want more information and opportunities to learn about the best approach to working at heights, particularly in construction, where falls remain the leading cause of fatalities.”

Employers can register for the free online workshops at: worksafe.vic.gov.au/construction/ falls-basics

Coalpower is rich in world history

By PHILIP HOPKINS

OS p,

with its eight chimneys, dominated the Morwell skyline for six decades, and became asymbol of the LatrobeValley electricity industry that powered Victoria’s development.

It's now gone from the landscape.

In contrast,aremote north-east corner of Germany at Peenemunde,onthe island of Usedom in theBalticSea, celebrates aEuropean project that marks akey chapter of World War 2-apreserved and restoredcoal-fired power station that is ahistorical technical museum.

This power station, now acelebrated tourist destination, underpinnedthe research and development of the infamous V1 and V2 rockets thatbombedLondon and other European cities It was the weapon Adolf Hitler hoped would turn the war in Nazi Germany's favour.

The power station continued to operate as a thermal resource and asource of heat energy in communist EastGermany afterthe war, closing in 1991 after German reunification.

Restauration of the power station and the surrounding complex took place as part of an investment program by the German government in the province of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania between 2010-2011 at acost of 3.6 million Euros. In 2013, the project, under the carefully chosenmantra, 'Memory and Warning', won the European Union Prize for Cultural Heritagein the Europa Nostra Awards.

The award citation noted that the restoration andongoinginterpretation of the Peenemunde power station was aproject of exceptional thoughtfulness and sensitivity.

"Avoiding the temptation of bright paint and shiny surfaces and dealing successfully with problems raisedbythe presence of asbestos, it succeeds in guaranteeing the future of the building," the citation said.

Above all, the jury feltitstruckthe right balance between the different and difficult elements within its history. The excellent dossier described this ambivalence well. Peenemunde was apioneering industrialplan generating electricity from the 1940s to the 1990s, but it was also akey component of the Nazi regime's hegemonicambitions, withtheir concomitant exploitation of forced labour and concentration camp prisoners.

The restoration of the power station was completed with the buildingand technical expertise of companies in the local region. The museum includes extensive documentation of the complex’sinvolvement in World War 2and the subsequentpost-wardevelopment of rocket science that had its origins in Peenemunde.

The vastturbine hallhas featured concerts and musical festivals with well-known artists and directors. Visitors wander around its vast expanse,whichhas aghost-like appearance. Werner von Braun, who subsequently led the Americanrocket project that landedmen on the Moon, was adriverofthe original project. Usedomwas in the 1930s- and is still now -apopular seaside tourist destination, but its northern end was an isolated, sandy corner of wooded dunes and marshlands, and peopled by afew fishing villages.

Werner von Braun’s mother lived in avillage 20 kilometres from Peenemunde;hediscovered the site during avisit in January 1936, which led to the establishment of the new military research centre.

Peenemunde offered a400-kilometre testing rangeoff the German coastwell away from population centres.

The state bought the area for the test centre in April 1936. Preliminary construction began four months later in August.

Forests were cleared, fields were drained and the necessaryinfrastructure, including train line that brought in people and materials, was put in place.

Construction of the power station began in 1939 and was completed in 1942.

Adike was built to prevent flooding from the Baltic Sea and sand pumped to provide firmer ground for the complex.

This was augmented by 2195 concrete piles 15 metres long thatwere rammedinto the ground Amelioration worksenabledcontinual drainage.

Atotal of 2.3 million bricks were used to build the power station.

All building materials were delivered by rail or by barge on the river Peene.

The main nearby Peenemunde port, completed in 1940, was used to land the coal, which was transported along aconveyor belt to the power station. In addition, the cooling water for the power station was extracted from the port.

Originally the Peenemunde powerstationwas designed for hard black coal –150,000tonnes of hard coalwas consumed annually from1942

ad coa was co su ed auay o9 to 1945 -but becauseoftransport problems, brown coal was also used from 1944.

formed the basis for all later developments i rocket engineering. The booster rockets used in space exploratio been preservedasa historical technical museum.

This coal,however, had alower calorificvalue so that larger amounts were needed.

“The Peenemunde power stationwas the most modern and the most innovative one in Europe. In this plant there they used, for example, the so-called‘power-heat-coupling’ and achieved with that avery high degree of effectiveness,” the citation says.

The former power stationcontrol roomhas beenkept in its original state. It showshow the power plant with a380-volt switching station thatensuredthe supply of electricity to the entire facility. It regulated the distribution of current to thevariousparts of the power plant.

“The controllamps, the switch levers, the st rai gh t, simplef orm sa ll ev ok eap lain, business-like functionality –and give aglimpse of the style of the time,” the citation says.

“This room may be the only remaining exampleofanaccessible control room dating from the 1940s.”

From 1943, the power station took over the supply of electricity to the surrounding district because it oftenproduced more energythan the research centre needed.

Despite the enormous consumption of coal to generate the energy, the four working chimneys emitted only asmall amount of visible smoke; it appeared as though the power station was not in operation.

An ultra-modern filtration system from the German company Lurgi provided an effective flue gas cleaning that helped filter the dust particles, which were ultimately removed and then pumped to anearby lake via the de-ashing plant of the power station.

The complex’sresearch beganproducing results: in the summer of 1943, the first flying bomb, the V1, wastested using acatapult launch ramp, which canbeseen at the museum.

This “was one of the most momentous technical innovations of the20thcentury”, the citation says.

Work on the design of its successor, the A4, had begun in 1936, and when it came into use in autumn 1944, the rocket was known as the V-2. Thetechnology containedinthis missile

n pp n as well as the guided missiles of the Cold War havetheirroots in the researchand development undertaken at Peenemunde.

British intelligence failed to realise the importance of Peenemunde until hints of secret German weapons became more frequent. Military command and the governmentrecognised the perilous danger thatGerman rockets posed for London. British reconnaissance flights in earlysummer 1943 identified the site and rockets; the War Cabinet discussed the findings on June 29, decided on an air attack, which was scheduled for mid-August to avoid short summer nights.

Operation Hydra became the largest British action against asingle target in World War 2.

Almost the entire bomber fleet took off towards Peenemunde-596 aircraft,4241men and 1924 tons of bombs.

Large destructionensued, the attack was deemed asuccess and only 40 bombers were lost –but Peenemunde was not completely destroyed -the power station survived.

The damage to the plant was repaired, research work couldcontinue,althoughdelayed and under difficult conditions. The first V1 was fired six daysafter D-DayinJune 6, 1944. A totalof10,492V1s were fired at Great Britain, killing 6148 people and wounding 17,492 Production of the A-4 was relocated to asafer place in central Germany and overseen by Peenemunde staff. The V2, which was fired at Britain, Belgium and theNetherlands, had a range of up to 320km with aceiling up to 90km Of the 1054 rockets that hit targets in Britain, 2754 people were killed and 6523 injured.

For thousands, Peenemunde wasslavery Slave labourers from all over Europe, Soviet prisoners of war and concentration camp prisoners were commandeered to work on the production of the A-4 under inhuman conditions. Thereisa chapel near the site which commemorates all the victims.

Since January 2007, the Peenemunde information centre has become an anchor point on the European Route for Industrial Heritage.

The Peenem ün de Hist ori cal Techni cal Museum, despite its isolation, attracts between 160,000-200,000 visitors annually.

Country spirit helping kids in need

By KATRINA BRANDON

OUR Kinda Country Club held its annual Royal Children'sHospital fundraiser at Traralgon’s Flanagan’s Irish Bar on March 29.

This year marked the 15th running of the event.

Mr Rowley and Mr Platschinda emceed. Assisting the duowiththe auction was Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron.

“I have been able to come downand do this every year,” Mr Cameron told the crowd.

“It’s agreat thing we do, raising money for the

About 60 people attended, where they listened to musicand networked, raising $3604.55, topped up to $5000 from the Our Kinda Country Club. Bill Rowley, Evan Platschinda, Chris Newman, Wayne Sutton, Bryce Wright, Margaret Wilson, Colin Sellings, Hanny Forster, Karla Clancy and David Graham were aselection of the musicians to keep the tunes coming.

children’s hospital. Most of us, or someone in this room, has been touched, whether it has been their own child, afamilymember, or afriend, where they have neededtorusha child down to the Royal Children’s Hospital.”

Mr Cameron praisedthe efforts of the event's attendees and organisers.

Keeping Mr Platschinda motivated to continue auctioneering, he told the crowd his daughter had previously needed hospital assistance.

been suppor ting the fundraiser for15years. Photographs: KatrinaBrandon

Latrobe digs deep for Good Friday

By KATRINABRANDON and LIAM DURKIN

LATROBE Valley locals showed their generosity in spades this Good Friday, with many community groups and businesses taking part in the annual appeal. Moe and Newborough raised an astonishing $96,445.31, placing it in the top 10 regional towns on the state's leaderboard.

Moe Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal Committeeleader Sue Bechazwas overwhelmed with the response.

"(We) wish to thank the amazing generous people of Moe and Newboroughwho donatedtothe appeal towards the outstanding amount, gaining us the unbelievable achievement of being in the top 10 of the regional towns tally board," she said.

"We would like to thank the local businesses who generously donated goods and prizes for our fabulous 24 hour fun run, which resulted in raising over $18,000.

"Thankyou to everyone who supported thisgreat cause in any way.

"We are very proud of the great support we get every year from the Moe and Newborough people."

In Traralgon, the Royal Exchange Hotel Cork Clubwas busyshaking tins last Thursday and Friday (April 2-3).

From 7am to 7pm, the team could be found at McDonalds Traralgonplazaand McDonald’s

Greatlyappreciated: Traralgon’s MelLees donates to theGoodFridayAppeal, which the RoyalExchange Hotel’sMichelle Quail helped organise Photograph: Katrina Brandon

Traralgon East, as well as at BP Traralgon East from 7am to 2pm on Good Friday. The Royal Exchange Hotel also ran acommunity family fun day from 10am to 2pm. The day featured live country music, asausage sizzle, coffee vans, donut stands, fairy floss, face painting, giant games and air brush tattoos. Joining theeffortwas the Country FireAuthority,

Now, she herself is helping to raise money for the hospital, workingalongside fundraisers in Melbourne.

TheRCH has been providingcare to Victoria’s children and their families for more than 150 years. While the state government funds the hospital’s standard operating costs, donations support clinical excellence. The programs and initiatives funded by donations deliver outcomes that go above and beyond the hospital’s normal day-to-day activities.

Don’t

who brought its fire trucks along, while also running the kids' favourite fishing games and the annual car show -featuring classic beauties from the '50s and '70s supported by the Latrobe Valley Street Machiners Car Club.

The Royal Exchange Hotel Cork Club has been donating to the Royal Children's Hospital since 1973.

The story goes that three blokes were having a beer, and two decided to have abet, with the loser having to donate money to the children's ward at the local hospital.

When the donation was declined, they decided to donate the money to the RoyalChildren’s Hospital instead.

From these humble beginnings, atradition was born.

Across the state, more than $2 millionwas raised for this year's Good Friday Appeal.

The money raisedfor The Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal will be used to ensure kids are providedwith the best possibletreatment and care. Moe RCH Good Friday Appeal Committee wished to thank Oliver's Butchers, Bakers Delight, Moe Fruit Market, Saviges Rd Fast &Ezy, Butchers On George, The Club Hotel Warragul, Moe Lions Club,MIRC, Danielle Daly and Lauren Wilson for theirsupport. Prize winners for the Easter raffle, which raisedanamazing $3880, were:KateLuke,

Johnson,

Chrisand Isla Farley

FOR more than 20 years, Gippslander ElishiaMitchell has workedonthe frontline of Victoria’s child protection efforts. Throughout hercareer, the now director for the Outer Gippsland Area hascarried with her acase from her early career and its lessons.

“I was working with ayounggirl who had experiencedprettyhorrific thingsin her childhood, and was highly traumatised,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Hertrauma wascomingout in alot of negative ways, includingaggressive and antisocial behaviour, and she wasstruggling with her mental health. My role was to engage her with supports to help her cope and begin to recover.

"She didn’t trust anyone, as she felt she’d been letdown by everyadult in her life, and didn’t want abar of any of us.

“I kept showing up, week after week. I would try to engageher, but she’d always tell me to go away.

"Because it was early in my career, Ifelt disheartened, and thought ‘we’re not making adifference, she hates me’. After about 18 months,akinship placementwas found, and she moved interstate.

“A few years later, she wrote to me to tell me she’dgraduatedhighschool and thanked me for never giving up on her. She said no one else in her worldhad showedher unconditional support and care, and that it had saved her life.

“That wasthe point where Iknewwhatwe do matters, even if we don’t see the outcome.”

Ms Mitchell said she always knew she wanted to go into afield that worked with familiesand supported children. She said the uniqueness of the job and the importance of theworkdrewher to child protection.

“Sometimes people misunderstand the rolechild protectionplays; it can be seen as negative.But at its heart, this work is about protecting children and creating lastingpositive change for families,” shesaid.

“Childprotection was where IknewI could make the biggest and best difference.

“One of the things that’s kept me working withthe departmentisthatthere’s so much support and training, and opportunities for progression. I’ve had lotsofdifferent roles and been afforded opportunities to progress.”

Being born and raised in Gippsland, Ms Mitchell said the lifestyle in the region was ideal. She said Gippsland felt very central, with its proximity to the beach, the lakes, thebush and high country of Victoria, and ski fields within aday’s drive.

“It’s asmall enough community in outer Gippsland thatit’sgot astrong sense of community, and still big enough that you have access to everything you need,” she said.

“Housingismore affordableand the traffic is more manageable. Life is less rushed out here.”

Ms Mitchell said while there waschallengesworking regionally, it was extremely rewarding.

“You haveagreatersense of connectionto the work you do in your own community,” she said.

“What we do, it’s not theoretical -it’s hands-on, tangible. The reality is that what we do can change the trajectory of achild’s life.

“It’s difficult work but that is what makes it so special and rewardingtodo. No two days are the same. The pace and variety are fabulous -you’re never bored, and you’re always challenged.”

For more informat ion about ch ild protecti on jo bs ,v isi t: www.vic. gov.a u/ child-protection-jobs

2 AGE SECTIONS

to

HOROSCOPES

by Joanne MadelineMoore

April 6- April 12,2026

Circumstances may be

Aries you were

and

may be tough, but you have all the resources within you to survive and even thrive Wisdom for the week is from playwright and diplomat Clare Booth Luce (who was born on April 10, 1903): “Courage is the ladder on which all the other virtues mount

Taurus is a fixed sign, and you can be a bossy, stubborn Bull Aim to be more adaptable and adventurous this week, as you focus attention on helping those around you The Sun, Mars, Saturn and Neptune light up your humanitarian zone, so being of service to others sees you glow on the inside But the Sun squares Jupiter in your communication zone so take the time to double-check all information communicate clearly and tread carefully with family and friends

Mars and Uranus link up so open and honest communication is required (especially at work) but make sure you don’t become the workplace nosey parker Passing on unverified hearsay could lead to unexpected consequences so think long and hard before you spread secrets and garrulous gossip What’s needed are kind words, helpful actions and noble deeds Those around you can expect some amusing antics from you and your peer group pals

This week the planets help you to prioritise your professional commitments and plan your long-term goals for the future If you devise a firm direction forward, then Lady Luck is waiting in the wings via a new job client bonus promotion or a cherished goal being realised Volunteer work could also be extremely rewarding However, on Monday be careful you don t overcommit and overextend (especially involving a professional project or a personal matter)

With the Sun Mars Saturn and Neptune transiting through fellow fire sign Aries, you re feeling feisty and ready for fun But with so many planets stirring up your adventure zone, you could also feel like a restless cat on a hot tin roof! Remember that hubris often comes before a fall so the buzzword for this week is humility Clever Lions will be kinder towards other people, and more tolerant of their individual idiosyncrasies and particular circumstances

Many busy Virgos will burn the midnight oil, as creativity bites and inspiration strikes International connections look beneficial at work and your involvement with a group club or organisation has others looking to you for a practical plan Resist the temptation to worry and make sure you get enough sleep Use your networking skills to drum up support and don’t be afraid to ask others for help At the moment, it’s not what you know but who you know

With Venus (your ruling planet) visiting earthy Taurus, you re all about natural beauty at the moment And environmental concerns could also be on your mind as you find novel ways to reduce, recycle and reuse Librans are the fashionistas of the zodiac, so it’s up to you to lead the way towards a more sustainable future Wisdom for the week comes from fashion designer/innovator (and birthday great) Vivienne Westwood: “Buy less, choose well make it last

Stubborn Scorpios can too easily get stuck in a stultifying daily regime This week its time to ricochet out of your usual routine and do something completely different Variety is the spice of life as you experiment with exciting new activities and enjoy some spontaneous adventures But the more you try to control others, the more they are likely to resist If you want to avoid problems and power struggles then learn to compromise and harmonise

The focus is on friendship and creativity as the Sun, Mars, Saturn and Neptune visit your peer group and self-expression zones So, its the perfect week to connect with your inner muse as you dance draw paint write publish, perform or play music And find some artistic friends so you can share ideas Your motto for the week comes from singer-songwriter Billie Holiday (who was born on April 7, 1915): “If I don’t have friends, then I ain t got nothing ”

Its a wonderful week to let the good times roll, as Venus and Uranus liven up your entertainment zone The stars highlight entertaining, eating out, movies, concerts, parties, personal pampering, fashion, fun and more You’re keen to work a little less and indulge in leisure and pleasure a lot more! But be careful what you say to a stressed partner or family member Deft diplomacy is paramount If in doubt just zip your lips and say absolutely nothing

Midweek, spontaneous Mars links up with sparky Uranus (your ruling planet) which is fabulous for fast thinking inspirational ideas innovative opportunities and bold actions You re also keen to create, activate and communicate, especially within your local community Some caution is required though Aquarius If you are too impulsive then you could say or do something that you later regret, especially involving a family member or a work colleague

With the Sun Mars Saturn and Neptune transiting through your money zone, financial matters are on your mind at the moment And Mercury is moving through your sign until April 15 so its time to think rationally - for a change! To connect communicate and converse with other people about a wide range of topics Your motto for the moment comes from fashion designer (and birthday great) Vivienne Westwood: The sexiest people are thinkers ”

COPYR GHT Joanne Made ne Moore 2026

Balfour St, Newborough

BALFOUR Street, Newborough is namedafter James Charles Murray Balfour, more popularly known as Jim.

Jim was amember of the Narracan Shire Council and local member of state parliament.

He was well known in the local community, not only for his role as aparliamentarian, but for his involvement in numerous community organisations over avery long period of time.

Jim was born in Windsor in 1914 to James Miller and Katrine Balfour.

Hisfatherwas amodel of community involvement for his son to follow. James Miller Balfour’s involvement included time as amember of the Brighton City Council(1930 to 1931), elected to the Victorian Legislative Council (1936-1943), chairman of the Board of Finance of the Presbyterian Church of Victoria,Member of the Ormond College Council at Melbourne University, vice-chairman of the Geelong College Council, amember of the Charities' Board of Victoria, president of the West Gippsland Hospital, trustee of the Melbourne GeneralCemetery, apastdirector of the Australian Natives' Association and chairman of the Victorian Dried Fruits Board.

So it is no surprise that Jim Balfour took on similar roles to his father.

He was elected to the Narracan Shire Council in 1945and remained acouncillor until 1967, serving as president in 1946-47,1950-51and 1960-61. In atightly contested election, he won the state parliamentary seat of Morwell in 1955.

After an electoral redistribution, he was subsequentlyelected to the seat of Narracan in 1967, which he retained until 1982 when he retired from politics.

He heldmultipleministerialpositions: Minerals and Energy (1977-81), Fuel and Power (1967-77), Mines (1967-77), Lands (1965-67), Conservation (1964-67), Soldier Settlement (1964-67), Mines (1964) and Water Supply (1964).

Any reading of thelocal Advocate newspaperwill see his name regularly mentioned in reference to community groups and local issues.

Just afew examples include being elected to the RSL War Services Fund Willow Grove Group and President of the Farewell Committee for Willow Grove for local service menand womenduring World War 2, chairing welcome home functions at the end of the war, joiningthe Moe Bush Fire Brigade (1946), president of Latrobe School

Committees Association (1946), President of the Moe HighSchool Advisory Committee, closely involved with promotion of anew hospital in Moe from1947onwards,supporting industries to move to Moe under agovernment decentralisation policy -the list could go on.

In addition, he was called on to chair functions, attend debutante balls, speak to community groups and use his political influencetogain new facilities for Moe such as schools, anew police station, an infant welfare centre and ahome for the Moe & District Historical Society. He could certainly claim aproud history of community involvement. He lived in Trafalgaronhis retirement until his deathin1990.

Informationand photograph supplied by Moe District Historical Society

50 years ago

The Express, April 9, 1976

18 hoursa day. forsurvival

NEARLY 100 dairy farmersare registered withthe Commonwealth Employment Service in Morwell, waiting for job vacancies. Many farmers have been forced to take on outside work in order to survive, while still having to run their farms. For most, this is an 18-hour working day. Bob Pitman,senior district officer for the AgricultureDepartment in Maffra, said yesterday it was probable that more farmers would be registering to pay essential costs. "The situation is most definitely getting worse,"hesaid. According to Mr Terry Walsh, Commonwealth Employment Services manager,the office in Warragul is in afar worsesituation thanMorwell.

This applies to all studen announced by principal RichardPrideaux afterasix-month strategic planning process. But in adetailed case againstthe implementation, parentsexpressed concern about the cost, necessity and safety of laptop computers "This policy will effectively bar many families fromsending theirchildren to St Paul's," the statementread. Anotebookcomputercosts around$3000, but St Paul's has made it possiblewithinthe policy for parentstoundergo athree-year lease for $2500. Parents also felt that those who relied on computers as a writing tool would be disadvantaged when sitting written VCE exams. "As we look to the 21st century, Idon'tbelieve it's possibleto preparestudents withouta technology-based curriculum," Mr Prideaux said. Afurther meeting for concerned parents will be held on Friday.

Unemployment benefits amount to $38.75 per week (per single person), $64.50 aweek for married couples, with an additional allowance for children under 16 of $7.50 aweek.

Newly elected president of the United Dairy Farmers of Victoria,MrBillPyle, told The Express yesterday: "I feel like the situation will also get worse, that's why we are trying desperately to make the federal government realise the position we are in".

30 years ago

The Express, April 7, 1996

Parents argue against laptops

AGROUPofconcerned parents have reacted angrilytoa decision to introducecompulsory laptop notebook computers at St Paul's Anglican Grammar SchoolinWarragul.

10 years ago

The Express, April 14, 2016

Some easeatthe pump LATROBE Valley motorists are paying less at the pump than their metropolitan counterparts for the first time in more than three months. While prices across the region have remained stagnant, for the seven-day period ending Tuesday, Melbourne prices shifted by more than 12 cents per litre. Most Victorian regional centres fell below the city average of 124.9cents, with the only exception beingKoo Wee Rup's 125.8 cents per litre. Across the Valley, Traralgon drivers paid an average of 119 cents, Moe 118.9. and Morwell 115.6. The lowest recorded price was found at Bairnsdale with 101.3

TheGuide

PICK OF THE WEEK

CAPER CREW

ABC Family, Sunday, 7 45pm

A seriously good time awaits in this high-energy kids adventure comedy that puts a childhood spin on the classic heist caper

treasure h

Wednesday, April8

MARRIED AT FIRSTSIGHT Nine, Monday, 7.30pm

There’sbeen mere days forviewwers to recover from this year’s unforgettable finalvows – and a moment that will go down in MarriedatFirstSighthistory – but forthe participants,this reunion is already one month down the track. Of courrse one episode isn’t enough to contain all the d drama; after last night’sexplosivedinner party,tthe conflict is still simmering and the scores remaain unsettled Acommunal couch session and d gentle guidance from experts AlessandraRamppolla John Aiken and the lateMel Schilling g (pictured) ought to calm everything downn, right? Wrong Accusations fly as thecastwatcches videos of their time on the showand delvves deeper into their actions throughout their r relationships

grandmother Quee Bursill) returns mayor (Ann posting reward f informa TheNug – who m nothave initial b assem new an gr a fi

It s set in sleepy Woodspring a town best known for the theft of a gold meteorite called “The Nug” from its planetarium 27 years ago by the notorious Kangaroo Gang The action follows siblings Amelia and Kai Delaney (Isabella Zhang and Luka Sero) after their mysterious treasure-hunting nie (Tina With the nie Maynard) a $100,000 for ation about g Queenie may or may e ties to the urglary – is mbling a w crew nd her randchildren re her first recruits

Criminally good: Tina Bursill as treasure-hunting grandma Queenie.

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

In following theredevelopment of the Australian WarMemorial in Canberra(pictured), this fascinating four-part seriesexamines the unique purpose of the national monument and its enduring impactonsociety. Firstconceivedin1916asa tribute to theANZACs buried on the other side of the world, the combined memorial, museum and archive is the only institution of its kind in the world. In abid to not only honour the first ANZACs but also recognise the braveservicemen and womenwho have followed in their footsteps, an immense expansion project has been underwayinrecent years. Cameras document the construction and curation of anew gallery, with commentary from those leading the process.

SEVEN (7,6)

CLARKSON’S FARM Nine Tuesday 8 40pm

It’slittlewonder this slice-of-lifedocuseriesissopopular, offering straighttalking TopGearstar Jeremy Clarkson’s hilarious insights into thetrials and tribulations of British farming–and the redtape that awaits at everycorner In this fourth season, with his right-hand man Kaleb touring his one-man show and wifeLisa away developinganew product line, Clarkson (pictured) is largely lefttohis owndevices. After the welcome arrivalofa new farmhand, he embarks on another ambitious project.Since his farm restaurant plans havebeen stymied by the council, he’s goingtobuy apub andserve his farm-to-fork fare thereinstead. But surprise,surprise: the road to becoming apublican is paved with quicksand and littered with bureaucratic obstacles.

NINE (9,8) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Four Corners.(R) 10.50 ForeignCorrespondent. (R) 11.30 Back Roads. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club Address 1.45 Spicks And Specks. (PG,R) 2.20 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.50 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.50 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow (R) 6am Morning Programs. 9.05 Destination Flavour.(R) 9.15 Sun &Splendour: History Of Marbella. (PGa) 10.05 KewGardens: Season By Season. (R) 10.55 DNA Journey 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Dateline.(R) 2.35 Insight.(R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.40 TheCook Up.(R) 4.10 SecretWorld Of Snacks. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers.(R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 TheMorning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 SevenNewsWithAlexCullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas, R) 2.00 BridgeOfLies. 3.00 TheChase. 4.00 SevenNewsAt4 5.00 TheChase Australia 6.00 Today 9.00 TodayExtra.(PG) 11.30 9News Morning 12.00 Married At FirstSight (PGl, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point (PG) 4.00 9NewsAfternoon 4.30[VIC]TippingPoint Australia.(PG) 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30[VIC]WINNews. 6.00

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABCNews.

7.30 7.30

8.00 TonightAtThe Museum. (PGs)

8.30 TheWeekly With CharliePickering. (PGls) Asatirical news program.

9.00 Can YouKeep ASecret? (Ms, R) Nehaand Debbie team up 9.30 QI. (Mal) HostedbySandi Toksvig.

10.00 Planet America (R)

10.35 ABC Late News 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 YouCan’t Ask That. (MA15+, R) 11.40 Murdoch Mysteries. (Mv,R) 12.25 Long Lost Family.(R) 1.15 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 ABiteToEat With Alice.(PG,R) 5.30 7.30.(R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS WorldNews.

7.30 48 Hours: Escape From Chernobyl. Chronicles the 1986 Chernobyl disaster

8.50 Chernobyl: TheLost Tapes. (Ma, R) Exploresthe story of Chernobyl through anewly uncovered hoard of dramatic footage

10.35 SBS WorldNews Late. 11.05 Rise Of TheRaven (Masv) 12.10 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Malsv) 1.55 Classified (Malv,R) 3.35 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHKWorld English News Morning. 5.30 ANC PhilippinesThe World Tonight.

6.00 SevenNews. 7.00 HomeAnd Away (PGa)

7.30 The1%ClubUK. (R) Hosted by LeeMack.

8.30 TheFront Bar (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher takea lighter look at all things AFL

9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hamish McLachlan chats with Alastair Clarkson.

10.00 TheAgenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tacklesthe biggest AFL topics.

11.00 No Holds Barred: GWSGiants (Ml)

12.00 Kochie’s Business Builders (R)

12.30 TheAct (MA15+ans, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 9News

7.00 ACurrentAffair

7.30 Travel Guides. (PGl, R) The guideshead to the Cook Islands.

8.40 MOVIE: Vacation. (2015,MA15+ln, R) Aman embarks on across-countrytrip to an amusement park with his family Ed Helms, ChristinaApplegate.

10.40 9News Late.

11.10 TheKiller Interview With PiersMorgan (Mv,R)

12.05 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Hello SA (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 SkippyThe Bush Kangaroo.(R) 4.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 5.00 TodayEarly News. 5.30 Today.

Beach. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Flower AndFlour 6.35 BigLizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 BenAnd Holly 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun TheSheep 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Steven Universe. 9.10 Adventure Time. 9.35 Teen Titans Go! 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am MorningPrograms. 7.30 Theatre Dome. 8.00 Lego Dreamzzz. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Jeopardy!Australia. 12.40pm Australian Ninja Warrior. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30

6am Ponyo.(2008) 7.45 DiscoveringFilm. 8.45 ARiver Runs Through It. (1992, PGaln) 11.00 Undercover. (2021, Madl, French, Spanish) 1.15 MadMax. (1979,Msv,R) 2.55 ForeverEnthralled. (2008,PG, R, Mandarin) 5.35 TheIpcress File. (1965,PGv,R) 7.35 Hard Eight. (1996,Mlsv, R) 9.30 Zardoz (1978) 11.30 Mad Heidi. (2022, MA15+avw) 1.15am Logan’s Run. (1976,Manv) 3.20 TheDelinquents.(1989, Mansv) 5.15 TheMovie Show

6am Mark Berg’sFishing Addiction. 7.00 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 Motor Racing.Night Thunder. High Limits WorldTour.Night 2. Replay 9.00 Duck Dynasty 10.00 Australia ReDiscovered. 10.30 AmericanRestoration. 11.30 American Pickers. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Truckers. 3.30 Swamp People:SerpentInvasion. 4.30 AmericanRestoration. 5.00 Storage Wars 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 The Agenda Setters. 8.30 The Force: Behind The Line 9.30 Caught On Dashcam. 10.30 World’s Wildest Police Videos. 11.30 Late Programs.

(93,

TEN (10, 5)

6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG) 7.00 Millionaire HotSeat. (PG) 7.30 TheDog HouseAustralia. (PGa) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 8.30 Elsbeth. (PGalv)Elsbethbattles awealthy biohacker whowilldoanything to stay young,including an extreme diet and vigorous exercise. 9.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sportand weather 10.30 10 News+. (R) 11.00 TheLate ShowWith Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.00

Thursday,April 9

ABC (2)

6am Mor ning Programs. 11.00 Creative Types. (PG, R) 11.30 Can YouKeep ASecret? (Ms, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Frauds. (Mal, R) 1.45 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.20 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.00 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family.(R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6.30 HardQuiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Back Roads: Gayndah, Qld. The team travels to Gayndah.

8.30 Creative TypesWithVirginia Trioli: David Hallberg. (Final) Virginia Trioli meets with David Hallberg.

9.00 The Piano. (PG, R) Presented by Amanda Keller

9.50 The Matter Of Facts: The Truth According To AI. (Final, PG, R)

10.40 ABC Late News.

10.55 The Business. (R) 11.10 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PG, R)

11.55 Long Lost Family.(R) 12.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 2.30 Unforgotten. (Mlv, R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To EatWith Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 10.15 TBA. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 6.50pm Ben And Holly 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 YoungSheldon. 8.45 Ultimate Vets. 9.10 Animal Park. 10.40 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 2.00pm Tradition On APlate. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Garma: Celebrating 25 Years. 5.30 Te Ao With Moana. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Waterworld Africa. 7.29 NITV Weather 7.30 Going Places. 8.30 Bones Of Crows. 9.20 MOVIE: Mystic River.(2003, MA15+) 11.45 Late Programs.

(3)

6am Mor ning Programs. 10.05 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 10.55 DNA Jour ney.(PG) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secret World Of Snacks. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 TreasuresWith Bettany Hughes: Rhodes –IslandOfLight. (PG) Bettany Hughes explores the Greek island of Rhodes.

8.30 Our Medicine. (PGa, R) Keisha gets results back from her recent GP assessment and is sent to do aplacement at the Beagle Bay Health Clinic.

9.45 Riot Women. Nisha grapples with atoxic colleague. 10.55 SBS World News Late. 11.25 In Memoriam. (Malv) 12.15 Bonn. (Mav,R) 2.10 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a, R) 3.05 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.05 Going Places With Er nie Dingo. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am WorldWatch. 11.00 The Movie Show 12.10pm WorldWatch 12.40 Alone. 1.55 UFOs: Investigating The Unknown. 2.45 Insight. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 United Gangs Of America. 10.20 The UnXplained. 11.10 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 8.40 The Ipcress File. (1965, PGv) 10.40 The Delinquents. (1989, Mansv) 12.35pm Logan’sRun. (1976, Manv) 2.50 ARiver Runs Through It. (1992, PGaln) 5.05 Discovering Film. 5.50 What We Did On Our Holiday.(2014, PGa) 7.40 Risky Business. (1983, Malns) 9.30 Mars Attacks! (1996, Masv) 11.30 Late Programs.

Friday,April 10 ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 5. Adelaide vCarlton.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show Post-game discussion and interviews taking alook back at all the action from the match.

11.00 Kick Ons. Apreview of the upcoming AFL matches.

11.30 HMP: Behind Bars: HMP Long Lartin. (MA15+a, R) Takes alook inside HMP Long Lartin

1.00 Damnation. (MA15+asv,R) Seth and the farmers take on the Black Legion.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning

Programs. 1pm Escape To The Country 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Air Crash Inv 3.30 Harry’sPractice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Home And Away 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries. 10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 RBT (Mdl, R) Alook at police random breath-test patrols.

8.30 Emergency (Mlm, R) Dr Mark Putland and the trauma team have minutes to save atruck driver’ssevered leg.

9.30 A+E Crash Scene Emergency (Mamv,R)Teenager Rick injures himself after hitting aroadblock and coming offhis mountain bike.

10.30 The Equalizer (Mv) 11.20 9News Late.

11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 12.40 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 5.00

6am Morning Programs. 1pm The Spencer Sisters. 2.00

9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PGls, R) 10.20 ABC Late News. 10.35 Shaun Micallef ’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R) 11.15 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 12.05 Love Me. (MA15+s, R) 12.45

(MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00

(9,8) 6am Mor ning Programs. 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 12.00 News. 12.55 The Piano. (PG, R) 1.45 Can YouKeep ASecret? (Ms, R) 2.15 The Assembly (PG, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

Mor ning Programs. 10.05 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 10.55 DNA Jour ney.(PG) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secret World Of Snacks. (PGal, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Er nie Dingo. (PG) 8.30 ANew ANZAC. (Premiere) Looks at the Australian War Memorial’sredevelopment.

9.30 Orient Express: AGolden Era Of Travel. (PGa, R) Looks at the Orient Express network.

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 The King. (Premiere, MA15+av) 11.50 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+asv, R) 1.45 Nordland 99. (Mal, R) 2.45 Mastermind Australia. (R) 3.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 10.15 TBA. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 7pm Superbuns. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars:

Programs. 10.30 HardEight. (1996, Mlsv) 12.20pm Mars Attacks! (1996, Masv) 2.20 The Ipcress File. (1965, PGv) 4.20 Roxane. (2019, PGals, French) 6.00 Weekend At

Sunrise. 9.00 The Mor ning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Mor ning Show Mysteries: Murder On The Menu. (2018, PGav,R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. Alead-up to the Friday night AFL match.

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 5. Collingwood vFremantle From Adelaide Oval.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show Post-game discussion and interviews.

11.15 GetOn Extra. Alook at the weekend’sbest racing.

11.45 Australian Idol. (PGal, R) The top six take to the stage.

1.30 Damnation. (MA15+asv,R)Seth and Creeley must confront their past.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 9News.

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Airport Security: USA. (Md) Abig operation soon gets results.

8.30 MOVIE: The Shawshank Redemption. (1994, MA15+lv,R) Aunique friendship develops between abanker convicted of murder and one of his fellow prisoners. Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, James Whitmore.

11.20 First On Scene. (Mav,R)

11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop:

Saturday, April 11

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend

Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer.(PG) 12.00

ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Blue Murder Motel. (Ml, R) 1.15 Patience. (M, R) 2.05

The ABC Of. (PG, R) 2.35 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. (R) 4.10 The Matter Of Facts. (Final, PG, R) 5.00 Australian Story.(R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Kath &Kim. (PGals, R) Kel gets on Kath’snerves.

6.25 HardQuiz. (PG, R) Presented by TomGleeson.

7.00 ABC News. Alook at the top stories of the day

7.30 Blue Murder Motel. (PGl) Alocal councillor is stabbed in his home.

8.15 TopEnd Bub. (Md) Ned discovers Lauren’ssecret. Taya is given the choice to meet her biological father.Daffy rediscovers her love of music with Dana.

8.45 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) As the team investigates amurder,they discover afamily with skeletons in the closet.

9.45 Frauds. (Ml, R) An unforeseen disaster derails the gang’splans.

10.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 5.10pm Tiddler 5.35 Children’s Programs. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’sGoBananas! 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.50 Chopped Junior 9.35 Mr Bean: The Animated Series. 9.55 Fresh OffThe Boat. 10.40 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm Nula. 2.05 Waterworld Africa. 2.55 Over The Black Dot. 3.25 Emily: IAmKam. 4.30 This Is Indian Country 5.00 Rebel With ACause: Oodgeroo Noonuccal. 6.00 Homesteads. 6.30 News. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Child’sPlay.(1972, MA15+) 10.20 Late Programs.

6am Mor ning Programs. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Tour of Flanders. Men’s race. Highlights. 2.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Tour of Flanders. Women’s race. Highlights. 3.00 Stories From The Cities. (PG) 3.30 FigureSkating. ISU World Championships Prague. Pt 1. 5.30 Shadow Man.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 EdwardVsGeorge: The Windsors At War. As war looms King George VI and Queen Elizabeth visit America.

8.25 Magical TrainJour neys In Switzerland: On The GoldenPass Belle Époque From Montreux To The Ber nese Oberland. (PGn, R) Atrip on the GoldenPass Belle Époque.

9.25 Jersey And Guer nsey (R) Caterer Mim Sarregets anew pizza truck. 10.20 Finding Your Roots. (PGa, R) 11.20 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v,R) 1.55 Matched. (PG, R) 2.45 Mastermind Australia. (R) 3.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6.00 NBC Today 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Mor ning

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Athletics. Australian Athletics Championships.

9.00 MOVIE: The Huntsman: Winter’sWar (2016, Mhv,R) Ahuntsman encounters his former believed-to-be-dead lover while searching for amissing magic mirror.Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron, Jessica Chastain.

11.30 MOVIE: Morbius. (2022, Malv,R) Abiochemist is transformed into avampire. Jared Leto. 1.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 3. Taupo Super400. Day 1. Highlights. 2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R) 4.30 It’sAcademic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Space Invaders. (PG) The team helps acouple suffering trauma.

8.30 MOVIE: Legally Blonde. (2001, PGls, R) Aditzy blonde enrols in aprestigious law school to woo her ex-boyfriend. Reese Witherspoon, Luke Wilson, Selma Blair

10.30 MOVIE: Monster-In-Law (2005, Ms, R) Jennifer Lopez.

12.20 Epic Builds. (R)

1.10 Open For Inspection. (R)

1.35 ExploreTVViking. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Jour ney Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) Afamilyconsiders acockapoo pup.

7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. Anna and Terence have lived in their home in Blackbur nSouth for eight years but have two almost teens who need their own space. 9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) Adiverse range of people open their living roomstoreveal their reactions to popular andtopical TV shows, withthe help of special, locked-offcameras which capture every unpredictable moment. 10.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R)Awoman falls off abalcony while retrieving acat. 11.30 Elsbeth. (PGalv,R)Elsbeth battles awealthy biohacker 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power 6am

WorldWatch. 10.30 The Movie Show 12.15pm Hostage Rescue. 2.00 Race For The Planet. 2.40 Fashionista. 2.50 Forged In Fire. 3.40 News. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 Mastermind Aust. 6.45 The Food That Built The World. 7.35 Abandoned Americana. 8.30 Icons Unearthed: Transformers. 10.20 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 10.50 Close. (2022, Ma, Dutch, English, Flemish, French) 12.45pm The Year Of Living Dangerously (1982, Mav) 2.50 What We DidOnOur Holiday.(2014, PGa) 4.40 The Orator.(2011, PGa, Samoan) 6.40 Buckley’sChance. (2021, PGlv) 8.30 John Wick: Chapter 2. (2017) 10.50 Late Programs.

7TWO (72, 62)

6am Morning

Programs. 1.30pm Medical Emergency 2.00

Better Homes. 4.00 The YorkshireVet. 5.00

Thoroughbred Club Race Day and WATC Derby Day 5.30 Harry’sPractice. 6.00 Luxury Escapes: World’sBest Holidays. 6.30 Dog Patrol. 7.00 Better Homes. 8.00 Lewis. 10.00 Late Programs.

7MATE

Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Men In Black. (1997, M) 9.30 MOVIE: Ghostbusters II. (1989, PG) 11.45 Late Programs.

9GEM (92,81)

6am Morning

Programs. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 MOVIE: Arabian Adventure. (1979) 1pm MOVIE: The Captive Heart. (1946, PG) 3.00 MOVIE: CairoRoad. (1950, PG) 5.00 MOVIE: Agatha Christie’s Murder On The Orient Express. (1974, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: U.S. Marshals. (1998, M) 10.10 TBA. 12.30am Late Programs.

9GO! (93, 82)

6am Morning Programs. Noon Tennis. Billie Jean King Cup. 7.00 Seinfeld. 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets Of Dumbledore. (2022, M) 10.20 MOVIE: Everything EverywhereAll At Once. (2022, MA15+) 1.05am Prodigal Son. 2.50 MOVIE: Monolith. (2022, M) 4.40 Surfest: 40 Years. 5.10

Sunday,April 12

6.30 Compass: Surviving Gaza, Seeking Truth. (PGv)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Piano. Presented by Guy Sebastian and Andrea Lam.

8.20

10.25 TopEnd Bub. (Md, R) 10.50 MOVIE: Windrider (1986, Mdls, R)

12.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 The Rise And Fall Of The Maya. (Premiere) Ateam of archaeologists discover aMayan monument. 9.20 Emperor: Rise And Fall Of ADynasty (Masv,R) Looks at Livia Drusilla. 10.15 Hunting Egypt’sLost Treasures: Legend Of The Pyramid Kings. (R) 11.05 Elvis’ Women. (Mas,R) 2.30 Matched. (PG, R) 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.20 Bamay.(R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Mor ning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Knee High Spies. 6.20 Bluey 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Hey Duggee’sSquirrel Club. 6.45 Supertato. 6.55 Piripenguins. 7.05 Let’sGoBananas! 7.20 Bluey 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 Caper Crew.(Premiere) 8.10 Secrets At Red Rocks. (Premiere) 8.35 Animal Park. 10.00 Amazing Animal Friends. 10.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 5. Port Adelaide vStKilda. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: The Norfolk Narco Cartel. (Madl, R) Looks inside amajor police operation. 12.10 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 3. Taupo Super400. Day 2. Highlights. 1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Hosted by Greg Grainger 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Luxury Escapes: World’s Best Holidays. 1.30 Business Builders. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Better Homes. 3.30 The

6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGl) The participants retur n 8.50 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.50 Power (MA15+dlnsv) Aformer drug kingpin opens anightclub. 11.05 9News Late. 11.35 AKiller Makes A Call: Terry. (Mav,R)

Oz OffRoad TV (PGl, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) Tribematestry to win Immunity 8.10 The Greatest: Reality TV Moments. Agroup of celebrities looks back at some of the greatest realityTVmoments. 9.10 Matlock. (PGa) Matty juggles abig court case and her 50th wedding anniversary while representing aJacobson Moorecolleague. 10.10 NCIS: Origins. (Mv,R) The evidence room is broken into. 12.00 10 News+ (R)Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 6am WorldWatch. 10.30 The Movie Show 12.20pm How Islam Built The Moder nWorld. 1.15 Jeopardy! 3.20 WorldWatch. 4.20 PBS News Compass Points. 4.50 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity 5.50 The ArchitectureThe Railways Built. 6.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour.Paris-Roubaix Men’srace. 12.55am Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Motor Racing. Dakar Rally.Weekly Highlights. 2.00 Black Magic. 3.00 Lionel. 4.30 Stompem Ground 2022: Midnight Oil. 6.15 The Drover’sBoy 6.30 News. 6.40 Wild, Smart And Deadly 7.30 Free The People. (Premiere) 8.30 Vacation Plantation. 9.55 MOVIE: Vacant Possession. (1994, M) 11.35 Late Programs. NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 10.05 Discovering Film. 11.00 Oliver’sUniverse. (2022, Mal, Spanish) 1.05pm Austin Powers: Inter national Man Of Mystery.(1997, Ms) 2.45 Weekend At Ber nie’s. (1989, PGadlsv) 4.30 The Fifth Element. (1997, PGnsv) 6.50 AHazardOfHearts. (1987, PGav) 8.30 Tea With Mussolini. (1999) 10.45 Late Programs.

Monday,April13

ABC (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7,6)

6am Mor ning Programs. 11.00 Top End Bub. (Md, R) 11.30 Back Roads. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Landline. (R)

2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv,R) 4.45 Long Lost Family.(R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(PG, R)

jour nalism program.

9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser

9.35 Planet America. Alook at American politics. 10.05 Foreign Correspondent. (R)

10.40 ABC Late News.

10.55 The Business. (R)

11.10 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PGls, R)

11.40 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R)

12.30 Long Lost Family.(R) 1.20 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) 3.55 Gardening Australia. (R) 4.55 ABite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 6.35pm Big Lizard. 6.40 Hey Duggee. 6.50 Ben And Holly 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 YoungSheldon. 8.45 Gladiators UK. 9.45 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.25 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Sunset To Sunrise. 2.00 Island Echoes. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Garma: Celebrating 25 Years. 5.30 The 77 Percent. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Waterworld Africa. 7.30 Who Do YouThink YouAre? 8.30 Karla Grant Presents. 9.30 MOVIE: Soul Food. (1997) 11.35 Late Programs.

6am Mor ning Programs. 10.25 Kew

Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 11.15

DNA Jour ney.(PG) 12.10 BBC

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (PG) The Tower hosts aVEDay evening.

8.30 8Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) Game show, featuring Jon Richardson, Roisin Conaty,Joe Lycett and Danny Dyer tackling awords and numbers quiz.

9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) Hosted by Greg Davies. 10.05 SBS World News Late. 10.35 Herrhausen: The Banker And The Bomb. (Mdlv) 11.40 Gomorrah. (MA15+av,R) 2.25 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R) 3.25 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 4.00 Bamay (R) 5.00 NHK WorldEnglish News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am Morning Programs. 12.45 NFL Classics: After Further Review 2.30 Inside The Huddle. 3.00 Over The Black Dot. 3.30 Stories From The Cities. 4.00 WorldWatch 4.55 PBS News Compass Points. 5.25 WorldWatch 5.55 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.45 Jeopardy! 7.35 News. 7.40 8Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Holy Marvels. 9.20 Greatest Escapes. 10.10 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 12.25pm Two

Many Chefs. (2022, Madl, Spanish) 2.05 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PGa, Italian) 4.00 Buckley’sChance. (2021, PGlv) 5.50 Thunderbirds AreGO. (1966, PG) 7.30 The WayOfThe Dragon. (1972, Mv Cantonese) 9.20 The Big Boss. (1971, Mv Cantonese) 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away

7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

9.15 9-1-1. (M) The 118 is called in to assist when amedical examiner becomes entangled in adangerous situation during an autopsy

10.15 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.

11.15 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. An expert panel tackles the biggest rugby league topics.

12.15 Conviction. (MA15+av,R)

1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning Programs. 10.30 Better Homes. 11.30 Last Chance Lear ners. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 ICU. 2.00 Weekender 2.30 Auction Squad. 3.30 Harry’sPractice. 4.00 Medical Emergency 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Doc

(

6.00 9News. 7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) couch session with the experts and (Ml) Ateam of footy experts tackles the AFL’s big issues and controversies.

10.30 9News

9GEM (92,81)

PG) 5.30 Secret Life Of The Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 ARemarkable Place To Die. 10.40 Late Programs.

7TWO (72, 62) 6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm Nanny 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Den Of Thieves. (2018, MA15+) 11.20 Seinfeld. 12.20am The 100. 1.15 Love Island UK. 2.10 The Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City 3.00 Jeopardy! Australia. 4.00 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Counting Cars. 2.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Taupo Super400. H’lights. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 The Agenda Setters. 8.30 Aussie Gold Hunters. 9.30 Adventure Gold Diggers.

Tuesday,April 14

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (7,6)

NINE (9,8) 6am Mor ning Programs. 11.50 Like AVersion. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.(R)

6.30 HardQuiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

7.55 Foreign Correspondent.

8.40 Judgment: Cases That Changed Australia: Love. (Premiere, PG) Looks at acase whichbegan aHigh Court battle. 9.30 Creative TypesWithVirginia Trioli: David Hallberg. (Final, R) 10.00 Compass. (PGv,R) 10.30 ABC Late News. 10.45 The Business. (R) 11.00 Four Cor ners. (R) 11.50 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.05 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R) 12.55 Long Lost Family.(PG, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 ABite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Mor ning Programs. 11.05 DNA Jour ney.(PGl) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Philae The Last TemplesOfAncient Egypt. (R) 3.00 Trail Towns. (R) 3.25 Plat Du Tour.(R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secret WorldOfSnacks. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Continental Railway Jour neys: Zurich/Rotkreuz To Brienz (PG, R) 8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi looks at names.

9.30 Dateline: Grow Chocolate, Not Cocaine. Alook at what plans the US has for Colombia. 10.00 SBS World News Late. 10.30 Rock Legends. (PGa) 11.00 Exit. (MA15+adlsv) 11.55 Elvira. (PGa, R) 3.05 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.10 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 4.45 Bamay.(R) 5.00 NHKWorld English News Mor ning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.50pm Ben And Holly 7.00 Superbuns. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.20 Bluey 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.20 BTN Newsbreak. 8.25 YoungSheldon. 8.45 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. 9.10 MythBusters “There’sYour Problem!”. 9.35 BattleBots. 10.20 Late Programs.

6am WorldWatch. 10.30 The Movie Show 12.15pm WorldWatch 12.45 Homicide. 2.35 Forged In Fire. 3.20 Kars &Stars. 3.45 News. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 James May: Our Man In... Japan. 9.30 Into The Void:Life, Death And Heavy Metal. (Final) 10.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Mor ning Show.(PG) 12.00 Seven’sNational News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away (PGav)

7.30 Australian Idol. (Final, PGal) The winner is announced.

9.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) Ateam of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates shares insights and experiences to highlight living well.

10.15 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.

12.15 MOVIE: Fatal Frenemies. (2021, Mav,R)LaurieFortier

2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

NITV (34) 6am Morning Programs. 9.30 NBC Today Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To TheCountry 2.00 Creek To Coast. 2.30 House Of Wellness. 3.30 Harry’sPractice. 4.00 Medical Emergency 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country 6.30

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Island Echoes. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 4.35 Motown Magic. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Garma: Celebrating 25 Years. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay 6.30 News. 6.40 Waterworld Africa. 7.30 Ocean Warriors. 8.30 MOVIE: Blood Diamond. (2006, MA15+) 10.55 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 The Big Boss. (1971, Mv,Cantonese) 11.50 Dead Again. (1991, Malsv) 1.45pm AHazardOfHearts. (1987, PGav) 3.25 TeaWith Mussolini. (1999) 5.35 The Last Wave. (1977, PGaln) 7.30 Fist Of Fury.(1972, Mv,Cantonese) 9.30 Game Of Death. (1978, Mv,Cantonese, English) 11.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Today 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30

6.00 9News.

7.00 ACurrent Affair

7.30 Travel Guides. (PGs, R) The travel guides head to Hong Kong.

8.40 Clarkson’sFarm: Solo-ing. (Retur n, Ml) With Kaleb and Lisa both away,Jeremy is left to run the farm on his own. (Ml) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues. 10.40 9News Late.

11.10 The Hunting Wives. (MA15+dlsv) 12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Destination WA 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Our State On A Plate. (PG) 3.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 ACurrent Affair.(R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30

TEN (10, 5)

Aussies kept chocolate factories busy overEaster,sosays survey

brought out their inner Homer Simpson this Easter,indulgingin plentyofsweet treats

MORE than four in 10 (45 per cent) Australians surveyed were expectedtoeat one kilogram or more of chocolate and seasonal treats this Easter.

The nu mbers cam ei nf ro ma rec ent pol l from global nutrition and food tracking app, MyFitnessPal.

The poll of 1011 Australians also revealed thatwhile many Australians expected moderate consumption, around one in 10 (12 per cent) responde nts expe cted to even consumef our kilograms or more during Easter.

Despite increased indulgence over Easter, more thanthree quarters (76 per cent) of Australians surveyed had no plans to follow apost-Easter diet, suggesting little pressure to cut back afterwards.

Among Australians surveyed who are planning

apost-Easterdiet,the primary motivationisto feelhealthier (59 per cent), rather thansimply reacting to overindulgence.

Nutritionist Michaela Sparrowsaidbalanceand moderation was key.

“Celebrations like Easter are often centred around food, and traditional treats like hot cross buns can playanimportant role in enjoyment and celebrating the holiday," she said.

"However,consuming large quantities of highsugar foods in ashort period can possibly lead to energy fluctuations, digestive discomfort, and disrupted eating patterns, particularly when it replaces more balanced meals.

“While there’s no need to eliminate sweets entirely, it’s important to maintain balanceby

incorporating nutrient-dense foods alongside sugary treats, stayinghydrated, andbeing mindful of portion sizes. Practising moderation doesn’t mean missing out, but rather supporting overall wellbeing during periods of celebration.

"It’s also really encouraging to see that most Australians are not planning to restrictively diet after Easter, and that among those who are, the primary motivation is to feel healthier rather than to ‘undo’ indulgence. This reflects amore positive and sustainable approach to nutrition. Rather than restrictingthemselves, Australians should continue to focus on returning to regular, balanced eating habits and prioritising consistency over quick fixes after the holiday period.”

WINEMAKERS of central and East Gippsland are celebrating the end of harvest with the popular Tinamba Food and Wine Festival this Sunday (April 12).

Wine Gippsland President, Rob Lightfoot,of Lightfoot Wines,Calulu, saidthatassociation members expect to finish picking vintage 2026 this week, and are ready to showcase their current release wines.

“The Tinamba festival is agreat opportunity to meet the local producers, try their current wines and find out the inside story on vintage 2026,” Mr Lightfoot said.

Cool weather during the peak February weeks extended the season,yet local winemakers are happy with the quality.

The annual festival is in its 16th year and regularly attracts up to 2000 people, held most years in autumn sunshine, with plenty of seating options. Si xl ocal wine ries are partici pating: Blue

Gables (Maffra West Upper), Glenmaggie Wines (Tinamba West), Lightfoot Wines, Narkoojee Wines (Glengarry North), Nicholson River Winery (Nicholson), and Wyanga Park Winery (Lakes Entrance).

Australian Good Food Guide-hatted restaurant Tinamba Hotel is serving festival fare favourites, along with several local gourmet food producers. Lindenow’s TheLong Paddock are bringing their populargourmet pies and savoury and sweet tarts, and homemade ice cream. Albert &Coare offering fresh prawn rolls and an in-demand oyster bar. The Tinamba CFA will run asausage sizzle and offer home-bakedslices. Other localproducers will be on hand with berries, jams, sauces, olives and nuts. The Hip Pockets, a10-piece bandwith ahorn section, includes some of Gippsland’s best-known musicians, and will keep the festival on its feet with amix of funk, soul, R&B and modern classics Mr Lightf oot welcomed the lead sponsors,

CommunityBankMaffra&District,inits first year partnering with the festival.Healsothanked The Middle of Everywhere at Wellington Shire, for their support.

Bus tickets are available, and must be booked in advance.

All admission tickets booked by Thursday, April 9 will go into the draw to win a prize worth more than $1500.

Part of the ticket sales go to local community groups and service organisationswho assist withthe setup and runningofthe festival. Bookvia:events.humanitix.com/2026-tinamba-food-and-wine-festival

For more information, follow Tinamba Food & Wine Festival on social media.

Great times: TheTinamba Food andWine Festival celebrates the end of the local harvest.

No need for pot shots at the PM

JOSEPH Lis wrote that “Albo betrayed the Jewish community for more than two years, culminating in the Bondi massacre” (Betrayed, Latrobe Valley Express Opinion, 01/04/26).

To my mind, that statement is disgraceful and defamatory.

It effectively places the blame for the massacre on the Prime Minister.

Ichallenge Mr Lis to explain in precise detail how the Prime Minister supposedly betrayed the Jewish community, and to further explainhow that alleged betrayal culminated (ended) in the Bondi massacre.

The Albanesegovernment appointedJillianSegal as its antisemitism envoyinJuly2024and she provided her report in July 2025.

Some aspects of the report have been criticised by human rights groups, includingits definition of antisemitism.

Nevertheless, the government adopted her plan and has committed to work through the implementationofits recommendations in consultation with the Jewish community.

The Royal Commission on antisemitism and social cohesion was established in January this year.

PerhapsMrLis was alluding to Australia’s formal recognition of the State of Palestine as an independent and sovereign state, but that occurred in September 2025, and it could not reasonably be construed as abetrayal. More than 150 other countrieshave formally acknowledgedthat Palestinians have aright to astate of their own.

If Mr Lis is unable to justify his assertions, he should do the honourable thing and submit aletter of apology to the Express.

Brian Kilday Jeeralang Junction

Freeman photo unnecessary IAMreferringtothe article in last week's Express in relation to police murderer Dezi Freeman ('Freeman manhunt over).

Dezi Freeman was shotdeadbypolice on Monday, March 30, 2026. ThisI believe fromthe media reports was due to the fact that he did not surrender peacefully after lengthy negotiations at the place where he was located.

There was no needinthe Express articleto display his photograph in such alarge wayfor a person that was marked as amurderer. Was the Expresstryingtodisplaythis person as amartyr?

It is my view that the article is distasteful in the circumstances, as there was no need to display it in the way that it was.

To my knowledge,this person hadnolinks to the Latrobe Valley.

Barry Dickson Retired Senior Sergeant 17267 Victoria Police Force

THE Latrobe Valley Expresswelcomes letters to the editor.

Preference will be given to brief, concise letters which address local issues.

The editor Liam Durkin, reserves the right to edit letters for reasons of space and clarity, and may refuse to publish any letter without explanation.

TheExpress doesnot publish lettersfrom anonymous contributors.

Letters must include aphone number, email addressand the author's hometown for purposes of substantiating authenticity. Readers are entitled to aright of reply to a letter directed at them.

While healthydebate is encouraged, the editor will stamp out any that cross the line to defamation.

The views expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Latrobe Valley Express management or staff.

Readers should be equally aware that facts presented in letters are selected to support a person's point of view.

As such, statistics can quite often be fabricateddepending on the pool of data used or people involved in surveys.

The letters sectionisdesigned to allow people to have their say, and not be hijacked for political agendas.

Letters rega rding relig ion will not be published.

Emailletters to news@lvexpress.com.au and include 'Letter to the Editor' in the subject line. Deadline for letters is Thursday 3pm.

Just imagine

DEAR climate activists,

1. Imaginethis scenario.In2030, your solar panelsare ending their 25-year run. With daytime electricity now free, would you spend $25-30k on new panels with minortonoreturn? Probably not. If daytime power is near free, installingpanels becomes pointless.

2. Now imagine you're arenewable energy producer. Daytime power's near free -there's too much renewable energy. Would you invest in new solar panels or wind turbines with little to no daytime return, hoping for night-time profits?The economics get tricky.

3. Of course, you could storeenergy for night time use. But assume renewables and pump hydro are at capacity -prices would be depressed at night too.With prices nearzero, howdoyou fund maintenance, let alone new investments? No profit meanstough decisions.

Ron Bernardi Boolarra

Use less, not find more

IN times of oil and gas shortages, it is logical and valid to ask, "how can we get more oil and gas?"

It is equally valid and just as logical to also ask the question "how can we use less oil and gas?"

Think back to the water shortage problem during the Millennium Drought; the staet government implemented a"use less" strategy (the 155 litre per day limit) and a"find more" strategy(the Wonthaggi Desalination Plant).

Now, the current oil crisis may get sorted out eventually, butthe risk of another one remains high.

Global armed conflict is rising, tariffs and trade uncertainty are at their highest levels in decades and most of this is being fuelled by the riseofrightwinddictatorslike Putinand Trump, neither of whom seem to be going away soon.

As individuals, noneofuscan help" findmore oil" but all of us can work on "use less"; particularlyby focusing on "how do Ireplace my fossil fuel use?

The obvious strategy is to buy an EV and escape the tyranny of being oil-dependent.

First, the running costs; an EV typically uses twice as many kilowatts per 100km as its fossil fuel equivalent. So, if your vehicle burns 10 litres per 100km, an EV version would "burn" 20kw per 100km. But electricity is way, way cheaper than petrol or diesel.

EV "fuel" costs range from essentially free (using home solar) to around $0.60-0.70 per "litreequivalent"usinghome grid charging while public charging costs from $0.60 per "litre" (Tesla public sites outside peak hours) to $1.60-1.80 (peak times or fixed rate sites).

Iestimate my weighted average "fuel" cost over 70,000km of EV driving to be around $0.30per "litre", or $3 per 100km. Generating 40-70 Kw per day from my 8.5Kw home solar and battery helps.

Think of it as apetrolpumpathome that can dispense 10-15 litres of free"petrol"per day as well as free household electricity.

Thus, atypical regional owner driving20,000km per year will save nearly $6000 annually, not to mention zero emissions and freeing yourself from the hip-pocket damage from the inevitable future oil crises.

Regardingthe practicality of EVs; unless you absolutely, positivelymust be able to drive 500km non-stop every day, an EV will suitjust about every household, given nearly all households seem to have two vehicles these days.

As for concerns about price, range and charging stations, Isimply say "forget whatever you think you know about EVs and do some research". Check out: www.evdbau.com/evsand:www.plugshare.com

Of course, EV delivery times are blowing out as everyone else comes to the same conclusion: time to get out of the clutches of the oil cartels forever.

John Gwyther Coongulla

The truth, the whole truth, and nothing butthe truth

THROUGHOUT the history of mankind, there has beenmany instances of disasters that could have been averted, if only the people involved had heeded the prior warnings of others.

Atimely example of this was the sinking of the Titanic 114 years ago thismonth where,despite numerous radio warnings of icebergsintheir vicinity, its captain carried on regardless at the same pace and course resulting in the tragic loss of around 1500 lives.

Fast forward to 2026. Over the last four years, our nation has been regularly reminded of the consequences of closing three of our nation’s larger coal fired power stations, taking with them 6000+ megawatts of power from our grid.

TheLabor/Greens have stubbornly insisted that thismassive shortfall can be covered by unpredictable weather dependent sources, ignoringthe most recent expert reports that admit that their 2030 targetswill not be able to be met.

So the question remains: where will we get the electricity to power our increasingly energy hungry economy from?

It would appear that former Australian Green’s candidate, Dan Caffrey’s solution to this problem (‘Let’s talk climate and renewable energy’, LVE Opinion, 01/04/26) is to make light of this serious situation and trundle out aseries of erroneous claims.

For instance, he mockingly claimed thatthe HELE (High Efficiency Low Emissions) approach would lead to low employment.

According to a2025Clean Energy Council report, the weather dependent energy industry employed around 33,000 Australians.

In 2024, our country’s coal fired power stations employed around50,600workers in the mining process alone.

In aprevious lettertothis newspaper, Mr Caffrey insisted that no corporation had ‘put up their hands to build new coal fired powerstations.’

When Ichallengedthis claim by referring to the Collinsville HELE project, rather than admit he gotthis wrong, Mr Caffrey tried to argue that the project had actually been ‘unofficially canned’ by the Liberal Party, amongst others. Had he done his research, he’d havediscovered that this ‘unofficially canned’ project subsequently managed to secure a federal payment of $4.4 million from the Morrison government to fund afeasibility study. This study was due to be completed in 2025, so his claim that it was abandoned is also incorrect as it is officially considered to still be in this study phase.

Mr Caffrey’s response in defence of his party’s current, destructive, factional infighting was to point out how asimilar situation had also occurred in One Nation. He cited an instance where eleven One Nation MP’s resigned or were expelled from the party after serving just one term. Mr Caffrey left outone small detail -that this incident took placemore than 28 years ago when the party was in its infancy.

Given the nationwide surge of One Nation in the polls, the recent electionresultsinSouth Australia withthe election of seven new MPs and the recent conferring of party status federally upon it, Mr Caffrey's attempt at awise closing caution i.e. that the lossofthe 11 MPs was not agood indicator of how One Nation could contribute to the good of the nation in future elections, appears to be one that is increasingly not shared by present day Australian voters.

Greg Hansford

Newborough

One Nation candidate for Gippsland at 2025 federal election

Still waiting

BRIAN Mawhinney, ('Return to sender', LVE Opinion,01/04/26), howcouldInot remember "the returning officer" story, when you've trotted it out on anumber of occasions?

Thatwas my point, as well as questioning the rationality and relevance of your historical clash with someone on your current political views.

It's obviously influenced you, but how does that irrationality positively promote your views now, or provide any interest to the reader?

Furthermore, where have I, in any way, suggested that the incident is not "fact", or is "an embellishment or an untruth"? Really, who cares?

Ichallengedyou to provide evidence of accusations against me, ('False conclusions',LVE 25/03), which you could not do.

You may well read my letters, "that's what I basemypoint on", but yourinterpretations and conclusions remain problematic.

Finally, your reference, to the Victorian Police Commissioner, who has been in the job for all of nine months, is just anasty, uneducated cheap shot.

John Duck Trafalgar

Handingover: Thebabyboomers(right) are nowintotheir60’s, meaning it is time forGen X andMillennialstobeleaders of their community.

Babyboomersstepping down

"USE the truth wisely, it comes as ashock to some."

It’s aparaphraseofMark Twain, but it is how I’ve remembered the quote. With the Strait of Hormuz closed, and Bab alMandab Strait now under threat, now may not be the best time to shareanother uncomfortable truth. I’ve put it off for avery long while, as Istruggled to find atactful way to put it, but it’s time to rip the Band-Aid off.

We are living in aperiod of great change. Some are happy to keep their heads in the sand. Many aren’t navigating it very well. And there are afew who have made peace with it. Change is inevitable.Death and taxes is oft cited as the only guarantees. Yet the reality is that change is the only one. What we knew at one point in time, or took for granted, is eventually taken from us. With 30 years of boom under our collective belts, change was long overdue. There is an entire generationwho has never experienced arecession, they’ve never seen or felt real hard times.

I’monlyjustold enough to remember, and my hair is quickly going grey. In fact, that memory is what drove me to do many of the things I’ve done. One such thing was to repeatedly sound the warning, keep things front of mind, offer the reminder, even if it was uncomfortable. Being abreast of reality is the only way we can properly take heed and prepare for what’s to come.

AfterWorld War2,the west saw amassive baby boom.Populations increased, wealth was readily available, jobs were plentiful and good times were around for all to enjoy. But the same baby boomers are now in theirsenior years, so more change is lappingatour shores.

Many of our groups, clubs, organisations and businesses were built and have been kept alive by this generation. We mustthank and appreciate them for the work they’ve done; for the good times andprosperitythey've shared. But the uncomfortable truth is, as the years progress, they won’t be able to any more.

Our governments recognised this early, and with low birthing rates of the juniors, opened the gates to suitably aged people who can help share the load and transition.

Many of our clubs who can’t navigate this will be forced to fold or cease to exist, if they haven’t already. Those that have prepared will look totally differenttohow we rememberthem beinginchildhood.Thatwhite Australia we fondly remember is definitely long gone. Any train trip to any urban area, or any road trip to abeach or attraction, will only just drive this home.

So our entertainment and livelihoods will change, as will our populous. It will change fast. That frustration, anger or despondency that many are evidentlyfeeling,whenwethink about it, is really an expressionofgrief.

We remember what was and we yearn for it. But we must realise that it isn’t what it is now. It’s no longer reality. Sure, there are areas we can make adjustments and slow the transition. We can tweak our immigrationpoliciesorencourage more active participation in our clubsand workforce -doing jobs and tasks that some just don’t want to do. But that doesn’t stop the inevitable.

So howdowedealwiththis change?How do we deal with our loss? How do we deal with our attachment to whatwas? How do we deal with this grief?

Well it’s reality. So we make our peace with it. Take care and be well.

Anthony Wasiukiewicz Yallourn North

Get her in

MOIRA Deeming would look good in orange.

Garry Mitchell Yallourn North

Observations, not criticism

IWOULD liketocomment on afew of itemsin

Brian Mawhinney's letter ('Return to sender', LVE Opinion, 01/04/26).

Iwas surprised when Iwent searching, to learn that preferential voting was introduced to Parliament in 1918. Idonot agree with it.

Maybe in that time of history it was okay with fewer candidates, butnow, more than 100 years later,withevery Joe Blow standingfor useless parties that will never govern, it is time to go back to first past the post.

The war in Iran has jolted us out of our cocoon. The cost of living hit hard before the war, now we are faced with lack of fuel which as Mr Mawhinney stated, is taxed twice ayear without our notice.

Yes the ministers arepatheticinParliament, which also relates to the performance of their portfolios. Please do not put all the blame on the PoliceCommissioner for crime rates, the Allan government are the ones who control the law and funding for more police. Our state's bail laws in particular are ajoke.

Theftoffuel from farmerswill not help at the checkout, nextthe theftwillbeonambulances, buses, meals on wheels,firestations, and car parks. How low can these people sink?

John Gwyther ('Ill-informed Luddites', LVE Opinion, 01/04/26), should not sneer One Nation's HELEpolicy. They may do wellinNovember. Investorsmay have more confidence in anew government.

Dan Caffrey, well done with your listofprominent and distinguished names ('Let's talk climate and renewable energy', LVE Opinion, 01/04/26) do they all hold government positions? Iamsure there is along list of names somewhere to counteract their argument. Iagree with you about the nasty soy latte. Ihate coffee, my poison is hot chocolate.

Patricia Correa Traralgon

Bowengaslighting gullible Aussies

"YOU'RE not well, Paula, you imagine things," Gregory Anton (driving his new wife to the edge of madness), Gaslight,1944.

In 2022,'Merriam-Webster'named "gaslighting" Word of the Year.

The Dictionary entry reads: "Gaslighting is the psychological manipulation of aperson, usually

over an extended period of time, that can cause a person to question the validity of their thoughts, perceptions of reality, or memories."

Theterm originated from the 1944 MGM Gothic noir classic 'Gaslight' where acunning and opportunistic Victorian-era jewel-thief, Gregory Anton (chillingly played by Charles Boyer), tricks his new wife Paula (poignantly played by Ingrid Bergman for which she deservedly won the AcademyAward for Best Actress), into thinking she's insane so he can commit her to amental asylumlikeher mother beforeher, steal her fortune, and seducethe maid.

Oneofthe ways he distorts his wife's reality is by dimming the gas lights withoutwarning or reason (in sync with Paula's panic) so as to make her feel unhinged.

But 'Gaslight' is far more than just asuspense film about an evil and controlling psychopath manipulating his helpless victim into believing she is forgetful, akleptomaniac, and ultimately insane.

At itssinister core, 'Gaslight'holdsamirrortothe present state of politics in Australia and specifically to our Dr Jeckyll/My Hyde-like Energy Minister, the reality-proof Chris 'Blackout Bowen'.

For just like the brainwashing tactics used by Gregory Anton in 'Gaslight', wheneverBowen repeats his deceitful mantra that "renewables are the cheapest form of energy", he, spontaneously, wantsustodisbelieve our lying eyes whenever we seeour contradictory and ever-rising power bills.

In other words,Bowen is engaging in psychological manipulation('gaslighting')assymbolised in 'Gaslight' by Paula's growing self-doubt and mental fragility whenever the gas lights are dimmed.

To sum up, the film's exploration of psychological manipulation (that is, converting reality to insanity) -and especially used by cults and ideologically obsessed political parties -remains profoundly relevant today, for 'Gaslight' is asharp reminder of how power can be twisted behind closed doors.

The worldisfilledwith too manypeople like Paula and Gregory.

Too many people who allow predators like the truly slimy Chris Bowen into their lives and minds because they are too inexperienced or vulnerable to know better.

Joseph Lis Morwell

Seven key factors for ageing well

WITH Australians living longer than ever, new research has uncovered seven factors key to ageingwell-challenging long-held assumptions that health alone determines wellbeing in later life.

The studydrew on the experiences of 722 Australians aged 65 to 98 fromthe general population, as well as 13 Holocaust survivors now living in Australia -most of whom considered themselves to be ageing well despite the extreme childhood adversity they endured. The research found that ageing well is shaped by seven key components: autonomy, purpose in life, independence, reasonable and manageable health, positive attitudes, active life involvement and socialconnectednessand belonging.

Federation University Psychology PhD student ChloeWaddell, who led the study, said the research shed new insights into what it means to age well, drawing on the lived experiences of older Australians.

“As our population lives longer, it’s important to understand how to support people in their later years. But there has long been alackof consensus about what ageing well actually means,” Dr Waddell said.

“Past ideasofageing wellwere you had to be in perfect health -but as this research shows, feeling connected, having purpose and retaining control over your own life can be just as, if not more, important.”

Dr Waddell said understanding each of these key componentscouldhelp drivepositive change for people in later life.

“By understanding each of these factors, we can provide aclearer framework for policymakers, aged care providers, carers and older

Australiansthemselves to guide supports in future.”

The research found ageing well is adynamic and evolving process that exists on acontinuum -with most Australians considering themselves to be ageing well, regardless of gender or health status.

Of the 13 Holocaust survivors interviewed, most reported ageing well, with key themes includ ing health, belonging, autonom y including uncoerced decision-making, active life involvement and positive attitudes like mental toughness.

“Aspart of my broader research, Iwanted to understand what ageing well means to older Australians from different walks of life. This group of our population have experienced prejudice and discrimination,marginalisation andextreme childhood adversity,” Dr Waddell said.

“Thereiscurrently no research on this groupinrelation to ageing well, and given their advancing age, we are in auniqueand privileged positiontohear their insights. Ifeel very privileged that they trusted me with their stories and life experiences.”

Dr Waddell said the findings offer an important reminder about the potential for wellbeing in later life.

“Together, these insights remind us that later lifecan be meaningful, connected and fulfilling -even afteralifetime of adversity -if the right supports are in place.”

Proud historyofeducation in Morwell

FOR more than 140 years, Sacred Heart Primary School has been acornerstone of education and faith in Morwell, reflecting the steady growth and enduring spirit of its Catholic community.

Established in 1884, the school began as amodest institution dedicated to servingthe educational needs of local families. From its earliest days, Sacred Heart was closely connected to the life of theparish,growing alongside key developments that helped shape the identity of the community. One of the first major milestones came in 1895 withthe construction of anew presbytery.This provided apermanent residencefor the parish priestand strengthened the organisation of parish life. This development played an important role in supporting boththe spiritual and educational needsofthe community.

Progress continued into the new century with the construction of Morwell’ssecond Sacred Heart Church in 1903. The new church symbolised the growth and confidence of the parish. Together, the church, presbytery, and school formed the heart of Catholic life in the town.

Adefining chapter in the school’s history began in 1907, when the Sisters of St Joseph took responsibility for its operation. Theirarrival marked the beginning of more than 80 years of dedicated service. Until1992, theSistersplayed acentral role in shaping the lives of generations of students.

As the town of Morwell continued to grow, so too did Sacred Heart Primary School.

Although founded in the 19th century, the school has operated from its current Commercial Road site since 1933. Increasing enrolmentsled to further expansion, including the addition of asecond storey in 1962.

Today, Sacred Heart Primary School continues to build on this proud history. It offers arich and supportive learning environment where students are placed at the centre of all teaching and learning. Pathways for learning are developed through strong collaboration between staff and the wider

community,ensuring students are supported both academically and personally. The school’smission remains firmlyguidedbyGospel values,continuing itslong-standing tradition of faith-basededucation. Student wellbeing and safety are central to school life.Child Safe Standards are embedded across all aspects of the school, ensuring asecure and nurturing environment.This is supported by awhole-school approach to positive behaviour support, with the R.I.S.E. framework -Respectful, Inclusive, Safe, and for Everyone -guiding expectations and promoting positive behaviour among students.

SacredHeart also embraces evidence-based teaching practices to deliver the Victorian Curriculum, alongside the SaleDiocese ReligiousEducation program. This combination ensures that students receive abalanced education that nurturesboth intellectual growth and spiritual development. The school teaches dedicated sessions in literacy,

numeracy and religiouseducation, using evidencebasedstrategies. The specialist areastaughtat the school are art, physical education, information technology, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), AUSLAN (a language other than English), and Aboriginal Studies.

In addition, classroom teachersteach history, mus ic, geog rap hy, an dp ers ona la nd soc ial capabilitiesusing a'big idea' to connectcontent with higher-order thinking. These are ideas like 'belonging', 'learning to learn', 'growth', 'journey' and 'transformation' to name afew.

From its humble beginnings in 1884 to its modern-day presence, Sacred Heart Primary School remains avital part of the Morwell community. Its history is one of faith, dedication, and resilience -qualities that continue to guide the school as it prepares future generationsfor life beyond the classroom.

Gippsland Grammar’sequestrian team success

ON the back of several years of outstanding successatstate level, Gippsland Grammar’s equestrian team has again qualified to compete at the Victorian State Interschool Equestrian Championships.

The championshipsare currently beingheld at Boneo Park (April 8to12).

Despite fielding asmaller team than many competing schools, Gippsland Grammar has finished in the top four overall for at least the past three years, an exceptional achievement in one of the most competitive school equestrian events in Victoria.

This consistent performance has also translated to national success, withGippsland Grammar riders qualifying for the Australian Interschool Championshipsinrecent years, including four riders qualifying for nationals in 2025.

The 2026 Gippsland Grammar team includes ridersfrom primary, intermediate and senior div is ion s, all of who m havequalified for the state championsh

through strong performancesatqualifyingevents.

Seniorriders Emily Wagstaff, Emily Taylor and Charlee Latham will lead the way competing in dressage, show jumping and combined training events, as well as show horseand novelty events.

The primary school team willberepresented by Lachy and Mitch Black,Lily and Jack Gilbert and LanaThyssenacross show jumping, combined training,games and handy mount classes.

Gippsland Grammar Principal Dr PaulWalton congratulated all ridersonqualifying for the Victorian state championships, and wished them every success as they represented the school.

Class: Picturedright, EmilyTaylor shows her form

Riding crew: Picturedbelow, Gippsland Grammar Equestrian riders readyfor the statechampionships,EmilyWagstaff,Lana Thyssen, LilyGilber t, Mitch Black, Jack Gilber t Black

Business Guide

Business Guide

GIPPSLAND STEELCENTRE

GIPPSLAND Steel Centre has been in operation since 1999, providing customersacross the region with the largest rangeof steel, roofing and accessories

With 40 year's of valuable industryexperience,Gippsland Steel Centre staffare able to tailor their services to meet the needs of customers. Countonthem to always be prompt, reliable, customer-oriented and to always provide superior products

Being family-owned, Gippsland Steel is proud of their abilityto offerpersonalised services to customers, and will makesureto provide youwith an option to suit

your needs.Whether you’dlike to pickupyour products or have them delivered to your site, they will gladlyaccommodateyou.

Gippsland Steel Centre is proud to be home to the largest steel product inventoryinGippsland. Come to them fortop-quality materials and reliable delivery

services.Whether yourequirea small piece of steel or alot of par ts foraproject,you can count on their professional, friendlyteam to get your job done right

Phone Gippsland Steel on 5135 6600 or come see the team in person at 527 Princes Drive, Morwell.

Gippsland

Door Installer

ADVERTISERS

PLEASE NOTE:

Much hardship and difficulty is caused to job seekers by misleading advertising placed in the employment columns.

Our Situations Vacant columns are reserved for advertisements which carry aspecific and genuine offer of employment. Ads for `Business Opportunities' and `Training Courses' and `Employment Services' should be submitted under those headings.

Placing misleading ads is an offence against the Trades Practices Act and state/territory fair trading acts and all advertisements are subject to the publisher's approval. For further advice, contact the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on 1300 302 502 or your state consumer affairs agency.

DELIVERERS WTD

Would you like to deliver the Latrobe Valley Express newspaper to individual homes on Tuesday and/or Wednesday afternoons in Morwell, Traralgon, Moe, Newborou gh and Churchill? Please apply to the Circulation Manager 0456 000 541. Please note: Children must be 11 years or over as we will need to apply for agovernment Child Emplo ym ent Pe rmit Children younger than 11 cannot or will not be accepted. Adult deliverers also welcome.

Don't

today

Affordable Caravans 0418 336 238, 5623 4782.

6'x4' Steel Box Trailer

GORDON Glen 18/11/1946 -28/03/2026

Passed away at LRH Traralgon with his family by his side. Adored son of Ellen and Joseph (both dec). Loved and loving brother to, Kevin (dec), Adrian (dec), Adrienne, Lindsay, Yvonne (dec), Geoffrey, Josephine, Brian (dec).

Even though you have left us, you will always be by our side. Rest peacefully, dear brother. You have earned it.

LOWE (nee Breed) Joanne Helen 11/03/1956 -2/04/2026

Passed away peacefully at Epworth Freemasons Hospital surrounded by her loving family on Thursday 2April 2026. Cherished wife of Ian.

Deeply adored and devoted mother of Jacki and Rebecca.

Beloved daughter of Terry (dec.) and Elaine (dec.).

Much loved sister of Kerri and Malcolm, Barry and Gwen.

O'HERN (nee Burrows)

Gloria Mary 14/2/1937 -2/4/2026

Passed away peacefully at Andrews House Aged Care Facility, Trafalgar, with Rhonda and Doug by her side. Aged 89 years. Dearly loved daughter of Alma and Charles Burrows (both dec).

Special sister of Dorothy, Margaret (dec), Bev, Marlene (dec), Nola and Kelvin (dec) and their partners (all dec).

Deaths •

CAINES (nee Jack)

Louise Fernie

FAST FACTS

Spare tyre and jockey wheel included. $600.00. Contact 0419 497 675. Trailers • PAGE Michael John The Funeral Service to celebrate the life of Michael will take place in the Harwood Chapel, 107 Traralgon-Maffra Road, Traralgon on SATURDAY 11 April 2026 commencing at 2pm. APrivate cremation will follow. Please visit www.harwoodfunerals.com.au for livestream link.

GORDON Glen Beloved son-in-law to George and Dulcie (dec) Harris. Cherished brotherin-law to Peter and Jane, Brian and Sharon, Chris and Kirstin and their families. Sadly missed. Our love and thoughts are with Catherine, Natalie, Heydan, Dakota and Blair.

GORDON Glen Our dear friend and mate for many years. We will miss the happy times we had together. Our thoughts are with Catherine and family.

Rest easy Glenny Boy Love Lyn, Arthur andthe Kennedy Family.

HIBBERT (née Pawley)

Ann Lorraine

23/9/1946 -30/3/2026 Passed away peacefully on the 30 March 2026, surrounded by love.

Dearly loved daughter of William and Betty Pawley (both dec).

26/09/1943 -26/03/2026 Passed away peacefully in the palliative Care Ward at Latrobe Regional Health. Caring nursing staff particularly from Jason and Amy.

Cherished wife of Ian, Mother of Stuart and Mother-in-law of Michelle. Sister of Margarita. Life is going to be hard without you. We miss you more than words can say. Louise's funeral is aprivate family service. Her service will be live streamed. To view the livestream, please visit our website: latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au and click on livestreaming

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MOE 51261111 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

Steadfast eldest sister to Bruce, Colin and David. Beloved wife of Rex Hibbert (dec). Loving mother of Cameron, Brendan and Ashley, guiding mother-in-law to Noudjoum and Lynda. Adored Grandma of Joya, Meja and Oberon, who brought her great happiness and adventure.

Ann will be remembered for her warmth, kindness and deep love for her family. Community-minded, she was ateacher, advocate for people with ph ysical disabilities, librarian and tireless volunteer. Avalued member of U3A, Fantastic Gippsland, Current Affairs, LionessLadies, past President of Churchill Golf Club and an avid global traveller.

LEACH (nee McGregor)

Jean Annand 12/7/1941 -30/3/2026

Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family aged 84 years. Loving wife of Peter and Alastair (both dec). Loving mother to Julie, Christine and their families. Aloving wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many.

Forever loved and missed, and neverforgotten.

We are deeply grateful to Dr Azim Jalali for his care, compassion and support of Joanne and our family.

We also sincerely thank the nurses and staff at Freemasons Ward 2East for their compassionate and kind care.

Our amazing Mum, You were the best mother anyone could hope for.

You always put us first and made everyone feel safe, loved, and looked after.

You were so strong and fought hard while still being kind and loving to everyone around you.

We are going to miss you so much but we were so lucky to have you as our mum.

We will love you forever.

Jacki and Beck

Dear Jo 49 years together and I'm grateful for every one of them. I'll miss you more than words can say Ian

Aprivate cremation will be held to honour Joanne's wishes.

Amemorial will be held at alater date.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON

TRARALGON 5174 2258 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

LOWE (nee Breed)

Joanne Helen Loved sister and sisterin-law to Kerri and Malcolm, Barry and Gwen. Loved Auntie to Jason and Ben, Jordan and Stephanie and families. Cherished memories. Forever in our hearts.

McDONALD Ian Francis In loving memory. 9/12/1935 -26/3/2026

Avery special person, a loyal, true friend and honorable man who will never be replaced. So lucky we are and proud too, to have afather and poppy special as you. Mark, Amanda and Malakai.

Loving wife of Frank (dec) for 65 wonderful years.

Devote dmotherand mother-in-law of Peter (dec), Rhonda and Doug, Graham and Emma.

Adored Nan of Prudence, Abby, Greg, Dean, Sally, Claire, Maggie, Liam, Joseph, Isaac, Bodhi and their partners.

Loving Great Nan of Isla, Bobby, Ava, Billy, Harrison, Archie, Lily, Mason, Lucas, Pheonix, Alden, Elodie and Archer.

Reunited with Dad again.

Resting peacefully in God's Garden.

O'LOUGHLIN

Jennifer Ann 1/7/1960 -31/3/2026

Passed away peacefully after along illness at St. Hilarys Aged Care, Morwell. Aged 65 years. Bel oved da ught er of Yvonne and Bryan (dec.).

Loved and devoted sister of Mark and Christene, Sharon and Tim, Rod and Vicki, Jim and Karen and their families.

Jenny you were loved and will be missed by many. GO CATS! Forever in our hearts.

PAPADAKIS Nikolas Passed away peacefully on Tuesday 31 March 2026. Aged 89 years. Born Kamara-Arcad ia, Greece on 20 November, 1936. Beloved Father of Leah. So dearly loved, so sadly missed. Always so loving, thoughtful and kind,what beautiful memories you leave behind.

REST IN PEACE DAD.

PETERSON Christa Maria Born on 20 June, 1941. Passed away peacefully 1 April, 2026.

Dearly loved and loving wife of Ron (dec). Much loved Mother of Linda (dec), John and Joan (dec).

Beloved grandmother to 4 and great grandmother to 5.

Your love will liveon forever in our hearts.

WOOLCOCK John David 27/3/2026

HIBBERT

AMemorial Service to Celebrate Ann's Life will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 437 Princes Drive, Morwell, on THURSDAY (9 April, 2026) at 10:30am. In lieu of flowers, donations to the LRH Cancer Care Centre would be appreciated. Ann's service will also be livestreamed. To view the livestream, please visit our website: latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

LEACH Jean The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Mrs. Jean Leach will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 437A Princes Dr Morwell on MONDAY (13 April, 2026) commencing at 10:30am.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

MICALLEF Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Josephine Micallef will be offered at St. Vincents Catholic Church, Hunt St Morwell, on WEDNESDAY 8April 2026 commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of Mass the funeral will leave for the Yallourn Cemetery.

O'HERN AService to celebrate the life of Mrs Gloria Mary O'Hern, late of Trafalgar, will be held at the Nielsen Funeral Chapel, Korumburra Rd, Warragul on TU ES DA Y( 14 Ap ril, 2026) at 10:30am.

PAPADAKIS

The funeral service for Mr Nikolas Papadakis will be held at Greek Orthodox Chur ch, Morwel lo n WEDNESDAY (15 April, 2026) commencing at 11am. At the conclusion of the service the funeral will leave for Gippsland Memorial Park, Traralgon Cemetery.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

PETERSON

The Funeral Service and Committal for Cremation for Christa Maria Peterson will be held at Latrobe Valley Funeral Services Chapel, 437a Princes Dr Morwell on FRIDAY (17 April, 2026) commencing at 10:30am.

MOE-MORWELL-TRARALGON MORWELL 5134 4937 Place your tribute on latrobevalleyfunerals.com.au

Memoriam

FAWCETT Pat 12/4/2019

Your presence we miss, your memory we treasure, Loving you always, forgetting you never. Beloved wife and mother of Jack, Mark, Anita and families.

SYKES Andrew 31/3/1960 -8/4/2014

Another anniversary; Remembering you on your birthday and always. Mum and all the family

FORGET

FOSTER Justin Alexander

6/6/1977 -1/4/2026

Passed away peacefully at LRH after along battle with cancer. Beloved son, brother, uncle, father and grandfather. Gone too soon. Forever in our hearts. Privately Cremated.

MICALLEF Josephine

Passed away peacefully at Baw Baw Views Nursing Home Moe, on 29 March 2026. Aged 97. Loved wife of Tony (Dec). Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Rosy and Tony (Dec), Joe and Jane, Ray and Sue, Gracie and Joe, Katherine and Mick. Loved Nanna and Buz to all her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

MORGAN Elaine Passed away on Sunday 22 March 2026 at Monash Hospital, Clayton. Loving wife to Rex for 42 years. Will always be remembered for the great life we shared.

We lost adear friend and lovely man. He will always be remembered. Trevor and Jenny, Mitchell and Catie and Jimmy, Rhys and Rohan.

The Service will also be live-streamed. To view Gloria's Service please visit: www.nielsenfunerals.com.au

APrivate Family Burial will precede the Service.

O'LOUGHLIN Jennifer ARequiem Mass for the repose of the soul of Ms Jennifer O'Loughlin will be offered at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 262 Commercial Road, Morwell on TUESDAY (14 April 2026) commencing at 1pm. At the conclusion of Mass, the Funeral will leave for the Hazelwood Cemetery.

5174 2258 Place your tribute on

When you lose someone close to you, it can be hard to put your thoughts and feelings into words All noticesplaced in print also go in our digital edition Place yourpersonal message in the LatrobeValley Express and share your memories Forfriendly advice on how to place your message contact The Classifieds

GOLF

CHURCHILL ANDMONASH

Men’sMonthly Medal (Stroke) 28th March 2026

MonthlyMedal Winner: P. Jordan 66 Nett

ScratchWinner: G. Beyer79off stick

PuttsWinner: A. Auld 26

AGrade Winner: G. Beyer67Nett

BGrade Winner: C. Gosling 70 Nett

CGrade Winner: P. Jordan 66 Nett

D.T.L: 1. G. Sanders73, 2. R. Sands 73, 3. R. King,4

G. Spowart 75, 5. B. Jenkins 75, 6. B. Jenkins 75, 7. C.

Stevens 75, 8. D. Taylor 76,9.T.Collins 77 c/b

N.T.P: 3rdS.Sanders(Propin), 12th J. Cahill

Target Hole: C. Gosling

Par– 31st March 2026

Winner: L. VanRooy+1c/b

D.T.L: 1. C. Carder +1, 2. S. Caldwell -2

Birdie: 5th C. Carder

N.T.P: 3rdL.Van Rooy,5th C. Carder,12th M.

Hutchinson, 14th M. Dear MIRBOONORTH

Tuesday31st March,Stableford.

AGrade: DBeyer(7) 40pts

BGrade: JVan Rooye(25) 36pts

DTL: RWinderlich, BSkinner,A Mc Carthy,C Harwood, 35. NTP: 4th TomTraill, 6th DTaylor,13th DBeyer, 16th PWoodall.

Birdies: 4th, TomTraill, ALeibe,C Mc Phee,B Skinner,C Harwood, 6th NBaker,13th DBeyer. Saturday4th April, Stableford

AGrade: TBaker (5) 37pts

BGrade: DJerram (17) 38pts

CGrade: NBracecamp (19) 36pts

DTL: ELaing-Peters37, DWoodall, ALiebe J Robbins36. CTraill, GDawson, CGunn, 35

NTP: 4th, ELaing-Peters, 6th, NBaker,13th P Smar t, 16th ELaing-Peters

Birdies: 4th, NBickerton, ELaing-Peters, JRobbins, 6th SMc Innes, MOE

Sunday, 29 March 2026Competition: Open Sunday

Mixed Stableford

Grade AWinners: Winters, Jamie (9) 40 C/B

Grade BWinners: Demczuk, Rohan (25) 43

Place Getters: Wilson, Lee 40 Dyke,Mitchell 39

Sunday, 29 March 2026 CLUB MIXED Canadian

Grade AWinners: Kerr,Graham &Wallis,Elizabeth

75

Place Getters: Borg, Kathy& Veenman, Laurie 75.25

Spiteri, Paul &Clarke, Loretta 77.125, Mead, Barry& Mead, Anne 77.25

Nearest to Pin: 4th Evelyn Mitchell, 4th RayMitchell, 8th Andrea Griggs,8th Paul Spiteri, 14th Kaye

Middlemiss,14th Murray Donaldson

Wednesday, 01 April 2026 Women's Wednesday9

Hole Stableford

Overall Winner: Dyt, Phyllis (21) 16

Wednesday, 01 April 2026 Competition: WOMENS

MONTHLYMEDAL Stroke

Overall Winners: Wallis,Elizabeth (30) 72 (Medal Winner)

Grade AWinners: Shaw, Karen(22) 75 C/B

Grade BWinners: Wallis,Elizabeth (30) 72

Place Getters: O'Reilly, Christine 75 C/B,Borg, Kathy 75 C/B

Great Score: KarenShaw(Birdie) @11

Nearest to Pin: 4th Kaye Middlemiss,8th Sandy Tate

Target Hole Prize: KayeMiddlemiss Putts

AGrade: KathyBorg(31)

BGrade: Elizabeth Wallis (30) Thursday, 02 April 2026 Competition: Open Mixed Stableford

Grade AWinners: Bruce,Shane (6) 42

Grade BWinners: Gauci, Anthony(16)37 C/B

Grade CWinners: Dyke,Barry(21) 37

Place Getters: Wilson, Graeme 38, Griggs,Daryl 37,Spiteri, Paul 36 C/B,Powell, Vincent 36 C/B Harber,John 36 C/B,Jackson, Mark36, Hamilton, Alec 36 C/B,Donaldson, Murray 36, Collings,Dale 35 C/B,Scammell, Mark35C/B,Morrow,Brett 35 C/B

Sleswick, Paddy 35, Backman, Shane 34 C/B

MORWELL

Women's Wednesday1st April, 2026 Stroke-

Monthly Medal

Div 1and Medal Winner: CPeter 71

Div 2: SKarleusa 76

DTL: CBoers73JGriffiths 75 c/b

Count Putts: JGriffiths 26 putts

NTP: 2nd CPeter 8th CPeter 11th CBoers15th D Vuillermin

TRAFALGAR

WednesdayWomen's results 1/4/26 2nd Rd

Foursomes Championships

DailyWinners: Linda Chapple and Cheryl Deppler with 65 nett

RunnersUp: Jo Baker and Christine Payne with 69.5 nett

DTL: KarenMacGregor and BevKeilywith 72.5 nett, Aileen McNair and Lorna Risol and JanJansen and Anne Outhred with 74 nett

NTP: 2nd BevKeilyno-one on the 15th

Gobblers: JanJansen and JennyEvison on the 4th 9holes Stableford-noplayers

Championship ScratchWinners: June Tickell and Corrine Nancarrow with 88 and 87 Total175

Championship Handicap Winners: Linda Chapple and Cheryl Deppeler with 75 nettand 65 nettTotal 140nett

Tuesday: 31/03/26 -Stableford

Players :21: 2ladies ,19Men

Winner: BevKeily(24)

Runner Up: SteveKlemke(22)

DTL: DirkMeyer(19)GeoffFallon (19) Chris Griffin (19)

NTP 5th SteveKlemke

LuckyCard: RodPollock

Thursday2/04/26-StrokeM/Medal

Players: 54, Women 18,Men 36

Ladies Winner: Sonia Rober ts (32)

R/Up: Di Bayley(33)

ScratchWinner: Sue Klemke(41)

DTL: KarenMacGregor (34) Sue Williams (34) Aileen McNair (34) Cheryl Toyne (34)

NTP: 13th Sue DeVries

Lucky Card: BevKeily

Mens Winner: Ivan Grant (27)

R/ Up: John Dodorico (28)

ScratchWinner: Tony Shearer (35)

DTL: Graeme Harris (29) NickSolohub (30) Keith Owen (30) Glenn Doolan (31) DirkMeyer(31) Laurie Snowball (31)

Par3 comp: Laurie Snowball, SteveKlemke, Dirk Meyer, Graeme Harris,TonyShearer,John Dodorico Keith Owen, Ivan Grant

NTP: 13th SteveKlemke

Lucky Card: Ed Hayward

Friday April3rd,Open Men’s&Ladies Stableford

AGrade Winner: PeterMoss 39 pts

BGrade Winner: Stu Marriott39pts

CGrade Winner: MikeDean 40 pts pts

DGrade Winner: Chris Moody 40 pts

DTL's: Will Hamilton 38, TomHolt 38, Peter Burghardt 37,Richie Parsonage 37,Chad McKie 37, BarryDwyer 37,ScottMcKinnon 37,Symon Lee 37, Jacob Grima 36, KarenMacGregor 36, Les Ellis 36, Craig Scanlan 36, Matilda McKinnon 36 Eagles: 14th:Will Hamilton, David McKeane Birdies: 5th: Alan Storer 11th:BarryDwyer,Mitchell Lovison 13th:Tim Cross 15th:Patty McGrath

SaturdayApril 4th, Stableford

AGrade Winner: Stewar tCluning 37 pts C/B

BGrade Winner: Darryl Blackshaw36 pts

CGrade Winner: Jeff Matthews 37 pts

DTL’s: Jeff Hasthorpe37, Symon Lee 37,Max Taylor 36,Chris Moody 36, PeterBurghardt 35, Les Ellis 35, Nicholas Vir tue 35, Mitch Vir tue 34, UweTomski 34, John Dodorico 34 C/B

NTP’s: 2nd: PeterBurghardt 5th: RonKeith 11th: Chad McKiee 13th:Stewart Cluning 15th:Ron Keith

YALLOURN

Ladies 2-4-26 ParEvent

Great Score: Paddy Sleswick(Birdie) @4,Michael Walshe (Birdie) @4,Gavan Panozzo(Birdie) @8, Zavier O'Reilly(Birdie)@ 8 Nearest to Pin: 4th Tony Johnson, 8th Gavan Panozzo, 14th Kyle Attard Friday, 03 April 2026 Competition: OPEN Mixed Stableford

Grade AWinners: Duncan, Nick(12)42

Grade BWinners: VanDen Dolder,Daniel (24) 36

Place Getters: Edebohls,Jack39, Doak, Shaun 35 C/B,Briggs,Brad35, Dyke,Barry34 Great Score: PeterGilpin (Eagle) @12, Shaun Doak (Birdie) @8,Laurie Veenman (Birdie) @8

Nearest to Pin: 4th Shaun Doak, 8th Laurie Veenman, 14th Shaun Doak

Saturday, 04 April 2026 WOMEN'S SATURDAY

OPEN Stableford

Grade AWinners: Clarke,Loretta (38) 36

Great Score: Leanne Donaldson (Birdie) @4

Saturday, 04 April 2026 Competition: MENS Monthly Medal Stroke

Grade AWinners: Skicko,Nick(10)72 C/B

Grade BWinners: McMahon, Thomas (15) 72

Grade CWinners: Puddy,Jacob (19) 73

Place Getters: Jamieson, Justin 72 C/B,Wright, David 72 C/B,Edwards,Garry72, Blunt, Philip 73

C/B,Dooley, Brian 73 C/B,Johnson, Tony 73, Hibbs Steven 74 C/B,Harber,John 74 C/B,Backman, Shane 74 C/B,Colvin, Anthony74, Wilson, Rober t75 C/B,Rothwell, Craig 75 C/B

Gross Winner: Tony Johnson 73

Great Score: RodneyWhite(Eagle) @9,George Jamieson (Birdie) @8,GarryEdwards (Birdie) @4

Nearest to Pin: 4th GarryEdwards,8th George

Jamieson, 14th Shane Williams

MysterySixes PrizeWinner: David Wright Medal Playoff -four

Winner: Maureen Bishop (44) +6

DTL: Sue Riches (33) 0Lola Carter (16) -1 NTP: 2ndSue Riches 8th Sue Riches 16th Maureen Bishop Gobbler: Sue Caldowon 6th

PISTOLS

Mon 23/3/26

Air pistol

BGrade: BKelly506-73-579. CGrade: WMcGlyn 501-70-571.D O'Rourke 490-83-573. BGoodwin 447-96-543. DGrade: JDunbar 498-88-586. DNewman476-100576. DSykes 462-109-571.P Sheils 450-130-580. P Leys 454-114-468. PDePetro429-102-531.L Morris 373-136-509. LDePetro317-202-509. Wed25/3/26 Rapid fire

DGrade: CBenelli 471-90-561.D Chandler 389-165554. LMorris 316-206-522. Sat 28/3/26

Morning Centrefire

CGrade: DFarnham 506-68-574. 25 mt pistol

DGrade: HMiller 377-177-554. LMorris 375-162-537 PLeys 330-157-487.N Darnum 326. Classic pistol

DGrade: MTrent 304-115-419. AfternoonRapid fire

DGrade: LMorris 285-216-501.

Where will

message reach?

Latrobe Valley Express Distribution area L t b

Facts:

to homes and businesses including roadside mailbox delivery in many rural areas. Available for free from outlets in smaller towns.

Total audited circulation 30,000 copies Published Wednesday

•“Thereiscontinued strongdemand(and passion) forthe printedproduct in ruraland regional Australia.”

•“Audiencesoverwhelmingly view aprinted copy of theirnewspaper as an essentialservice fortheircommunity.”

Running the rule over MidGippy

FOOTBALL MID GIPPSLAND

AS we enter into what promises to be asuper exciting Mid GippslandFootball-Netball League season, the excitement and anticipation for the competing clubs is palpable.

Willthe powerhouses of thelast few year's remain at the top of the ladder? Or, after some years of development and recruiting, will we see asurge up the ladder from one of last year’s battlers?

One thing is for sure though, the ladder has everyone on no wins and the scoreboards will all start with zeroes as we close in on the first bounce of season 2026.

What happens next and how that plays out comes season's end will be decided on aweekly basisover the coming weeks and months.

And we look forward to bringing you all the comings and goings, the ins and out and highs and lows as and when they occur.

Jump online each Monday and Friday, either at the MGFNL website or the links on our socials for weekly reviews and previews, and of course, you can listen to the MGFNL game of the week everySaturday (and even some Sundays) on 104.7 Gippsland FM.

The MGFNL season commences this weekend.

The league plays atop six finals series: first versus second (winnerinto grand final), third vs sixth, fourth vs fifth(losereliminated, winners play semi-final), winner of SF plays loser of first versus second in preliminary final.

Check the fixture in today's special Express lift out.

Foster



LAST SEASON:PREMIER

HARD to see them taking abackwards step this year after astrong off season in terms of recruiting and afresh voice, Jake Best, taking the reins. Unlikethe three other top foursides from last year however,Foster'sreservestend to struggle (theymanagedjust the three wins in 2025) and with theirouts for the coming season including MitchellGreen (retired),Michael Green (ACL), Matthew Clark (retired) and Billy Flavelle (ACL) it might well be that depth is their Achillies heel. Having said that, they do look to bringinatleast twoplayers who have played at ahigherlevel that seriously know how to light up the scoreboard, as well as perennial MGFNL teamofthe yearmember Jack Weston who crosses from Toora. Best comes with afantastic resume on the back of astint as Traralgon coach in the Gippsland league. The key forward can turn agame on its head on his own, but is well aware his team will be the hunted this year. When asked about the season ahead Best was looking no further ahead than Round 1.

“We have Fish Creek in agrand final rematch. It’s always aquality contest and will be agreat early test to see where we’re at.”  Prediction: Top two.

Fish Creek

 LAST SEASON:RUNNER-UP

THE crew from Fishy seemingly just don’t know how to not be involved in the pointy end of the season.

Theywere only accurate kickingaway from a hat-trick of premierships last year, to go with the threedozen or so they have celebrated as aclub over the years. Truly aphenomenal effort that shows no sign of sliding too far just yet.

Returning coach Jarrad Walker conceded “a bit of change for us coming into this season. Afew retirees and acouple moving on” but was quick to pointout “we have recruited well”. As if we’d expect anything less!

Those recruits include Charlie Wilson,Jack Davis, JacksonWeidemann, Rhett Weidemann and Mitch Hicks with Blaine Coates alsoreturning after ayear off.

Somewhat tongue in cheek, Walker said “as all teams are at this time of year, we have been absolutely flying in preseason” citing the new recruits as having “bought anew energy to the group.”

 Prediction: 3rd/4th.

Yinnar

 LAST SEASON:PRELIMINARYFINAL

STILLstinging from their 'so near yet so far' seasons across 2024 and 2025 the Magpies are 'all-in' on season 2026.

They appear to have identified their list gaps and covered them off with the inclusion of areturning ruckman and key swing man, and then invented a few more gaps where there weren’t any and loaded up on some gun onballers, an elite small forward and another defender to compliment the likes of Brendan Chapman, Luke Linton, Will Robertson and Mark Stolk.

If season 2026 isn’t the yearofthe Magpies, whoever wins it will need to beat them to get their hands on the silverware.

Yinnar coach, Sam McCulloch,commented

that “it has been avery positive preseason, with strong training numbers and aclear enthusiasm across the group to be fit and ready for our Round 2season opener. The playershave worked hard on key areas identified for improvement following lastseason, and the overall commitment has been very pleasing".

On list changes, McCulloch noted “a few departures, with Josh Bugeja heading overseas and unavailable for the 2026 season, while Michael Robertson has returned to his original club in Poowong".

On the recruitment front, McCulloch didn’t name names but was effusive about “some encouraging additions” with the club “welcoming back three former Yinnar juniors, alongwith apastYinnar premiership player”.

“Theseinclusions, combined with several new faces, have strengthened our list," he said.

"Allhave fit in welland fully embraced the club’sculture.With abye in Round 1, the group is especially eager to take the fieldinRound2and put the hard work of the preseason into action.”

 Prediction: toptwo

MDU

 LAST SEASON:SEMI-FINAL

THE Demons, having beaten Yinnar twice in the home-and-awayseason, went in to their semi-final against the Magpies last year with the confidence of asidethat was expecting to play in the following week's preliminary final.

Unfortunately for them, their only finalswin was to be againstThorpdale during week oneofthe campaign, with Yinnar having the game parcelled up at the main break.

MDU coach Rhett Kelly said “The playing group andclub are excited for the upcoming season, and we have seen excellent numbers duringpreseason training thus far.”

This should come as no surprise for aclub that has playedfinals over the last few seasons and had their thirds playing in last year’s grand final.

When asked about their final’s departure, Kelly responded firmlythat “the seniorteam is eager to makeamends forlastyear’s finals exit. We recognise that our performance that day was below our best, and the players are hungry to improve and understandthatweneed to perform to our best every game.”

 Prediction: top four and win two finals.

Thorpdale

 LAST SEASON:ELIMINATION FINAL

THE Thorpy boys’ recent historyisvery similar to that of MDU, with qualifying for the finals not beinganissue,but getting deepinto them proving thebiggerchallenge

With Yinnar’s most recent premiership coach, Daniel Taylor,again steering the ship, one gets the feeling it is now or never for the Blues.

Taylor spoke positively about several key returning players who he felt would bolsterhis list, including James Holland-Burch and Tyde Melbourne, as well as the league’sleading goal kicker of 2023, Matthew 'Moose' Powell.

The club was also set to welcome new additions in Jordy Patullo, Ayden Ramm and Jack Cole to add to alistthat has farwellled Joel Monger, Harry Sinclair-Stanley and James De Virgilio.

“Numbers havebeen prettystandard forus, averaging 20-25 on the track," Taylor said.

"We have 12-13 guys wholove their cricket which takes priority over the summer whichis fairenough,and when you combine that withguys living in Melbourne and us having no juniors our numbers have been pretty good.”

On his recruiting, Taylor explained “we feel like we've recruited pretty well, we've added guys that can cover the groundreallywell which is something we struggled with last season, and we are stoked to have Matt Powell back in the goal square which will give us some much needed firepower up forward."

"We're aiming to playfinals again and taking that next step and being able to really challenge those top two-three sides."

With amidfield led by Lachy Wallace, arguably the best player in the competition, and boasting the unheralded ruck work of Gav Low, finals, whilst not agiven in such an even competition, are definitely thepassmarkfor theseason.

 Prediction: 5th-6th, win afinal and knock off atop four side in the home-and-away season.

Boolarra

 LAST SEASON:ELIMINATION FINAL

WITH coach Brendan Mason finally getting access to some decent off field coaching support in Brett Sherriff, the (league’s original) Demons will look to go back-to-back in terms of participating in the post-season.

Mason spent many weeks in the NT over summer having akick, and it looks likehehas paid for some excess luggage, bringing back with him several seriously good players.

Their involvement and the continued efforts of Matt Dyer to travel back to play will likely dictate the success or otherwise of Boolarra’s season.

It could be acase of their good being very good and their bad being pretty ordinary based on the side each week as Boolarra's reserves, who finished bottom last year, do not seemingly offer agreat deal of depth to the seniorpartofthe club.(They do however knowhow to have agood time off the field).

It has not been all smooth sailing however for Boolarra, losing ahandful of quality players. Simon Noy, Luke Marriot (Churchill), Bailey Flannagan (Churchill) and Nathan Giardina (Morwell) have all moved on.

With Noy and Flanaganplaying huge roles in the run to the finalslastyear, their absencesin particularwill be felt, however the 'ins' will provide plenty of fresh talent for fans to get excited about.

Smallforward Matt Devon comes across from Trafalgar, Ethan Smith from Rosedale, Hamish Towns from Morwell East, while making the long trip from up north are Liam and Cal Flanagan, HaydenSchugman, David Kruseand Adam Cullen from Tracy Village, Ethan Wyss from Kolora Noorat and Leonard Ferreira from Jabiru.

 Prediction: 7th-8th, miss finals on percentage due to some big losses based on available talent.

Tarwin

 LAST SEASON:SEVENTH

AFTER finishing atop the ladder ahandfulof years ago,ithas beenarelativelyquiet period for Tarwin.

Last year saw their best footy be more than good enough to beat finalists, although their worst left many scratching their heads.

 Prediction: 6th/7th, miss or make finals by asingle game or percentage.

Mirboo North

 LAST SEASON:EIGHTH

AT three quarter time of Round 18 last year, Mirboo North led Boolarra.

Theirfinalsqualification equation was simple, win the last quarter of home-and-awayfooty on their home ground and they'd played finals. Lose, well no one in yellow and black even wanted to consider that at the time.

Some 25 minutes later, it was the Demons who advanced and Mirboo North wereconfined to spectators for the post-season.

That will have tasted so sour, Damien Turner and his chargesmay well have wanted to start preseason the following day.

On that preseason, which of course didn’t start the next day, Turner summed it up simply as “great”.

He said there was “fantastic buy in and we are seeing results".

The third-year coach said he wasreally happy with his group’s demographic, noting “some are startingtoenter their mid-20s with 70-plus games of senior footy, gaining in experience and confidence”.

Asked about his list, Turner said he had “retained 90 per cent plus of the list". He went on to say he was “very lucky to gain around adozen under 18s from 2025 who now 'graduate' to open age footy” and that this cohortwould be joinedbyseveral key recruits, namely:Tom Campbell, Hayden Potts and AJ Campbell (Sale), Oli Budd (Moe, returningjunior), Darby Kratzat (Leongatha, returning junior) and Jayden McCormack (Yarragon).

 Prediction: 6th/7th, miss or make finals by agame or percentage.

Newborough

 LAST SEASON:NINTH

AFTERA dominant couple of years that failed to deliverthe cup back to the Kennel, significant changes both on and offfield saw the Bulldogs miss post-season action last year.

In fact, from Round 7onward the tri-colours managed only wins over the sidesthat filled the bottom three rungs on the ladder at season's end.

Newborough will howeverbebuoyedbya dominant thirdsteamthat won the premiership in style and looked to contain morethan ahandful of ready-madesenior players for coachPatt Frendo to work with.

Frendo said he was “pretty happy with our preseason so far” when askedfor comment, and went onto say “numbers are good, effort is great and the excitement built through an intra club and then practice matches”.

In terms of recruiting, Frendo said “we’ve welcomed Matt Heywood from Moe, as well as former HillEnd captain, Liam Fitzpatrick. We’realsovery pleased to see our playing assistant coach, Nathan Wheildon back on the track after asevere leg injury that had him miss the entire 2025 season."

When asked about the year ahead, Frendo reflected on last year and said “with 10 of the leagues 13 clubs in contention for finals in the final weeks of 2025, there seems to be nothing to indicate that the very same scenario may come into play late in 2026”.

And if Frendo and the Dogs can again make the Kennel afortress, the Dogs may well be one of those clubs sneaking into the lastfew spots in the top six.

 Prediction: 10th-13th but improvement measured by abetter percentage this year than last.

Toora

 LAST SEASON:10TH

THE side nobodywanted to play in the run to finals last year, Toora, have beensuspiciously quiet in theoffseason.

The lads from Toorasent plenty of ripples through the league after late season wins that shaped the makeupofthe top six, and excluding one very notable departure, Jack Weston, appear to have maintained their list.

Undoubtedly, Weston is alossbut the side is always,and alwayswill be, more than one player. The inclusion of several depth players will strengthen the batting order, and with Lachy Earles from Yarram, andMattAllan from the strong Mornington league coming in, it would be abrave team who takes Toora lightly.

 Prediction: 10th-13th, improvement measured by beating sides they should beat every time.

StonyCreek

 LAST SEASON:11TH

THE Lions,itseemed,weresooftenjusta'breath' away in more than ahandful of gamesin2025 Up forthe fight but not quite able to deliver the knockoutpunchwhenitmattered Coach Troy Shepardson will have spent the preseason trying to find away to ensure that his side finds away to get the job done in season 2026.

 Prediction: 10th-13th, improvement measured by home ground performances.

Hill End

 LAST SEASON:12TH

THE Hillmen’s form in season 2025 was alot like Shakespeare: hard to read.

Goodenough to leadYinnar at halftime oneweek, going down to Fish Creek by 25 goals the next. It would be fairtosay gettingsome consistency in their footywill be the first portofcallfor incoming coachTom Hallinan.

Hallinan said the “focus for us has been on building senior depthtoour list. Ournumbers have beenimpressive, allowing anew coaching panel to implement amodern style of play suitable for the playinggroup we have".

Hallinan has at his disposal araft of new recruits including Justin Morrow (playing assistant), Jaryd Riddle,WarrenHester, Brodey Wolfenden, Bailey Sword, Will Luke, Sam Hanson, Cody Wood and Dustin Blackshaw from Moe, Josh and Zach Mills from Trafalgar, Kyle Baker from Drouin, Luke SummersgillfromYallournYallourn North, as well as Tom Johnstone,Tyrell Mick and Ashton Hermanus from slightly further afield.

With so many new faces,itisnowonder Hallinan was “optimistic” about the season ahead, with an expectation HillEnd wouldplay hard, energetic and intelligent football.

 Prediction: 8th/9th, too many ins not to translate to wins.

Morwell East

 LAST SEASON:13TH

A2025season that promised so much upon commencement failed to deliver in the worst possible way for the Hawks.

Acombination of injury, absence and suspension cost MorwellEastthe chancetogain any early season traction, with back-to-back three figure lossesinrounds five and six taking any remaining wind well and truly out of the sails at Vary Street. Newcoach, Ben Marks, will undoubtedly rally thetroops and anyone who saw or heard the post reserves premiership speech from last year willbe left in no doubt the efforts he will go to in order to translate success from the lunch time league into success in the late game.

The Hawks have the nucleus of adecent spine, with Cain Iorangi and Lucas Towns presenting a decentone-twopunch in the front half, and several key defenders that can do ajob down back.

If Marks can convince ahandful of the reserves premiership players with senior talenttochallenge themselves to playsenior footy and with ahealthy list at his disposal, there is no reason to think the Hawks won’t start to climb back up the ladder in season 2026. Whilst it is hard to see them challenging the top six straight away,anyone who gets the points over the Hawks will know they have played agame of footy come the final siren.

Marks made note that “having third's this year will be very exciting for the club”.

 Prediction: 10th-13th, improvement measured by gaining consistency and avoiding blow outs.

Be North Gippy, it’s thelocalfor me

support for grassroots sport and community connection across Gippsland.

AGL Loy Yang has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the North Gippsland Football Netball League (NGFNL) by signing on for another three years.

The partnershipagreement with the league extends its role as major partner through to 2029.

The renewed agreement continues astrong association of more than adecade between AGL Loy Yang and the NGFNL, reinforcing AGL’s ongoing

Mid Gippy flags presented

FOOTBALL/NETBALL

MID GIPPSLAND BY LIAM

DURKIN

SWANNY would have felt right at home in Morwell. Collingwood legend Dane Swan and Australian netballroyalty BiancaChatfieldwere specialguests at this year's Mid Gippsland Football-Netball League season launch.

The league toasted the commencement of the season at Morwell RSL last week. Premiers from season 2025 were presented with theirpremiership flags.

Senior football premier Fosterdrove the flag home, appropriately flying it from the sunroof of the car.

Ahighlightofthe night saw Newborough Football-Netball Club games record holder (football and netball) Chelsea Grangerawarded life membership of the league.

Grangerlastyear celebrated her 450th game for the Bulldogs.

Swan (42) will be back in Gippsland later this year, playing agame for East Gippsland club Paynesville.

The Mid Gippsland seasoncommences this Saturday.

Games are (venue is firstnamed team):

 FOSTER VS FISH CREEK,  MDU VS NEWBOROUGH,

MIRBOO NTH VS TOORA,

STONY CREEK VS HILL END,

 TARWIN VS MORWELL EAST,

 THORPDALE VS BOOLARRA,

 YINNAR -BYE.

Throughthe partnership, AGL LoyYangwill continue to support key inclusion focused rounds, including the AGL Loy Yang PrideCup, Mental Health Round and Indigenous Round.

These initiatives use the platform of local sport to promote diversity, inclusion and wellbeing, helping ensure football and netball remain welcoming spaces for everyone.

AGL Loy Yang general manager Christovan Niekerk said the partnership reflects the shared values of both organisations and the important

role sport plays in regional communities.

“Local sport plays avital role in bringing communities together, and we’re proud to continue standingalongsidethe North Gippsland FootballNetball League," he said

"This partnership allows us to support initiatives that strengthen inclusion, promote wellbeing and celebrate the diversity that makes our region strong.”

NGFNL president Paul Griffin said AGL Loy Yang’scontinued support is important to the success of the league and its clubs.

“We’re proud to renew our partnership with AGL

Loy Yang. Their commitment ensuresfootball and netball in our regionremainstrong,sustainable and deeplyconnected to the communities we serve,” he said.

The 2026 North Gippsland FNL season commencesthisSaturday (April 11), with the communityencouraged to get along, support their local clubsand be apart of another exciting season Round 1fixture (venue first named team): YarramvsSaleCity, Rosedale vs YYN, TTU vs Gormandale, Woodside vs Heyfield, Glengarry vs Cowwarr, Churchill -bye

The wildest sports story youwillever read

FOOTBALL

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

ADELAIDE Crows torture camp has got nothing on this.

Sale Football-Netball Club will take the first steps in aseason plagued with uncertainly this Saturday. Will they or won't they win agame?

Will they or won’t they have enough players?

Looking at the numbers, it isn’t looking all that promising.

The Magpies have lost at least 15 senior players, and gained less than half-a-dozen.

The scoreboard might be the least of Sale's concerns for 2026, as the club embarks on atotal rebuild.

This is afull rebuild from absolute ground zero.

The immediate focus is clear -reputational repair Not just within the Gippsland League, but across the Sale community.

The club's reputation took ahammering last year, in what was truly one of the most astonishing series of events spread over six months.

You could have honestly written abest seller about the number of stories that came out of Sale last winter.

Just whether or not the finished product ended up in the fiction or history section of the bookshop depends on who you're willing to believe.

Reports of car park dustups, altercations between officials, and injured players playing just so they could get paid, all filteredthroughatvarious stages in 2025.

This was just scratching the surface.

There was allegations players were forced to practice voodoo before agame, and adummy (the kindsucked on by babies) was also supposedly presented by acoach in amockinggesture to a disgruntled parent.

Then of course, there was email-gate, where an emailsentbyanimaginary journalist contained outrageous claims of drug use and explicit sexual messaging by Sale FNC officials. One of the Sale officials caught up in the saga even took the liberty of gettingthemselveshair testedtodisprove the allegations.

The tests all returned negative.

Just how thingsderailed to such an extent, all less than three years after the Magpies played in asenior andreserves grand final,added to the scarcely believable nature of what took place.

Repercussions were unavoidable, and come the end of the season, most of the committee was given its marching orders.

The Express has been told some sections of Sale FNC are adamant the club would have foldedif last year's committee was re-elected.

The dramatic turn was even harder to comprehendgiven there waslittledoubting the mountain of work sections of the previous committee had done to bring Sale back to relevance.

Departingpresident and football director Sam Anstee did the impossiblebyluring JackJohnstone out of Maffra to be senior coach, and defied every conceivable logic by getting Peter Morrison to coach Sale's reserves.

Keepinmind, Sale'sreserveswereagenuine basket case, and Morrison had coached Stratford to multiple senior flags.

The Magpies thenwent from claiming consecutive wooden spoons to playing in consecutive reserves grand finals.

Inevitably, club politics had ahand in the fallout, not helped by the fact threeofthe highest-ranking committee members were all from the same family.

Not discounting how hard it can be to get people to fill volunteer roles, there is no shortage of horror stories of clubs falling apart when one family becomes too involved.

In Sale's case, it is understood issues arose when some felt those inside acertain purple circle were getting preferential treatment.

The incumbents may have realised their time was up heading into November's annual meeting, and decided to go down swinging.

It's fair to say afew knives were sharpened.

Just have aread of what was published in the club's annual report (this is 100 per cent, word-forword what was written).

"I walk away with my experience,myconnections and my dignity -and Ileave you with the mess you created."

"I have plenty of suggestions for next year, but givenI no longercare, I'll refrain from offering an opinion."

"When we joinedsix years ago, we tookover a bit of amess -but we now hand it over in astrong, positive position.Beproud of whatwe've achieved, even if the snakes don't agree."

"To the incoming committee, don't think you're protected by any of the people you're surrounded by. Aleopard never changes its spots."

"At least it didn't go under in our hands," another section read.

And the pièce de résistance: "We need to f**k her off."

Loyaltieswere split whenplayersrecruited by the previous committee chose to leave. One became two, two became three, and before too long, half the senior side was on the move.

Givenall that has happened, the Magpies are tipped to be among the worst teams in the league this season, and furthermore, one of the weakest sides the Gippsland League has seen for some time.

Steppingintothe firestorm is newclub president Jamie Freeman, and senior coach Jack Leslie.

Adding to the complexity,Lesliewas linked with the Maffra job, while it is understood the Magpies sounded out Bairnsdale-based Shaun Mooney before he signed with Morwell.

Freeman is well awarethatthe road aheadwillbe tough, but is adopting a‘that was then and this is now’ mentality in ordertowork from aclean slate.

“It’s very difficult but we’re getting there,” he said.

“We’re certainly working in the right direction.

“We’re starting from afair way back, but that’s okay, we’ve got alot of new people in place structural wise at committee level and support staff.

“We’ve done alot of work in the background to solidify the financial position of the club, so that’s been areal positive.”

Freeman, who hastakenonthe topjob following five years on the committee,saidthe club was very much looking long-term.

“We’ve lost some calibre of senior players that’s for sure, there is afair bit of youth in the group,” he said.

“This year’s probably going to be abit of areset and aredevelopment phase for us. You look at the teams on paper that have improved compared to what they had last year, Moe are up there, we’re nowhere near that, let’s be honest.

“But going into the year after and beyond, we’re looking to certainly pick up some more players and some guys with abit of experience and abit more talent to back these kids up and nurture them.”

Leslie was similarly positioned,and in some ways, is actually at an advantage given he will be able to coach without the added burden of expectation.

Sale could well only use24playerpoints in its senior team, which will be mostly agroup of helplessly inexperienced locals.

"It's agood grouptobuildaround, youcan already see the light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.

"Learningtowin is thebiggestthing, we want to learn to win, really going to back ourselves in.

"We don't have muchpressureorexpectation (externally), we've got free hits every week.

“We'llpencil in games we should be winning and be disappointed if we don't.”

As part of the learning, Leslie added that selection integrity meanthewould be picking young players doing the work over seniors going along for the free ride.

For all the talk of how bad Sale might be, the Magpies still have Jack McLaren, Tom

Rising stars’ time to shine for Eagles

FOOTBALL

GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

SOME things never change.

It’s been nearly25years sinceMaffra won its drought-breaking 2002 Gippsland League premiership.

Back then, the Eagles decided to move away from big-name recruits, instead focussing on local retention.

It proved amasterstroke: seven premierships in nine seasons and total domination of the 2000’s. The success meant locals weren’t swayed by offers fromrival clubs, and juniors couldsee abright future when they moved out of underage football. Those juniorsofthe 2000’s played in Maffra’s two most recent premierships in 2016 and 2019. Thejuniors of that time could now be ready to do likewise.

Acommon denominator to all the Eagles’ success has been thesenior coach. All have carried surnames commanding the upmost respect given their service to Maffra Football-Netball Club. Wayne Butcher and Graham Robbins achieved multiple premierships as coaches, as did Hayden Burgiel, who is now back in the driver’s seat. Burgiel, 47, has coachedMaffra twice previously, between 2006 and 2008, and again in 2012to2013

Histhird stint will look different, in as much that he will coach purely from the side lines, and now be communicating with players around the same age as his three sons.

In theory, with Maffra spending most of the last four years rebuilding under Anthony Robbins, a teacher by trade, the appointment of Burgiel, who has been with Gippsland Power that same time, should seethe team put thoselearnings into practice.

Maffra has five players with Gippsland Power this season, and Burgiel has worked in close quarters with the club’s young guns.

The Eagleshavealsoenjoyedpremiership success at thirds and fourths level in recent years. Robbins crackedawry smileafter Maffra won the 2023thirds grand final, in full knowledge it boded well for the future.

Three years on, many are predicting the Eagles to be abolter this season. Burgiel however was keeping alevel head.

Back on board: Hayden Burgiel, pictured duringhis playing days with Maffra,willcommence his thirdstint as Eagles coach this weekend.

The leftfooterhad aprolificcareer, winning two Gippsland League medals across more than 200 games Photograph: Contributed

“Finals is really our only target at the moment, fourth or fifth position is probably our aim going by last year’s ladder position (seventh),” he said.

“Probably not that realistic to aim for top three, we haven’t really picked up any experienced players, the young group that we haveisprobably three years off being agrand finalist.

“It reminds me of our group coming through in 2002 -young, keen, and all local boys.”

Keeping the local familiarity going, Burgiel will be joined by North Melbourne premiership player Stuart Anderson, and Maffra premiership teammatesJustin Staley and Matthew Johnson as assistant coaches.

He will also have younger brother Adrian on the sidelines, whohas coached most of the Eagles’ seniorgroup at junior level,and been an unbiased reservesumpireinrecent seasons.

Staley, alegend of the Yarram region, will look after the midfield, and Anderson, thebackline.

Hayden himself has seen footy evolve since he last called the shots for Maffra in 2013.

Sale introduced afullground pressthe year before to devastating effect.

The planessentially sees all players from the

38 —The Latrobe Valley Express, Wednesday, 8April, 2026

attacking side move past halfway once the ball is inside 50, ‘compressing’ the ground to keep play at one end.

It is now commonplace among most teams.

Beating it requires precision by hand and foot to getthrough traffic, and then pace to burn once the ball is out in open space.

Pace shouldn’t be an issue given Maffra’s youth, while there is arguably no person more qualified to teach skill than Burgiel.

His lethal left foot took him all the way to the US, where he punted for Lenoir-Rhyne University in North Carolina.

“He would have to be one of the best kicks of a football in Victoria,” aMaffra official said on the occasion of Burgiel’s 200th gamefor the clubin 2012.

“There is no bettersight for acountry football spectator than to see him with the ball in his hands, streaming down the ground, ready to unleash the weapon that is his left foot on the leading forwards.”

Burgiel's left foot broke Traralgon hearts in 2009, for it was his pass that hit Nick Horsford that led to him kicking agoal after the siren in that year's grand final.

In typical Maffra fashion, Burgiel was somewhat evasive when asked about encouraging signs following some good wins in recent years, including last year over reigning premier Traralgon.

“Yep, 100 per cent,” is all he said.

The same response came when the departure of senior games record holder, Daniel Bedggood to coach Heyfield and the loss it would leave, was raised.

Maffra has generally kept things in-house, opting to hold its cards close to its chest.

Eventhe appointment of Burgiel was notpublicly announced until late November, by which time it had reached ‘worst kept secret' territory.

It was easier for this author to get an interview with then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison than it was to get John Butcher when the former Port Adelaide forward returned to Maffra in 2019.

The new coach did however confirm he hoped to have his son and former West Coast player Coby Burgiel “back at some stage” to pull on the red and black this season.

Wrigglesworth, JarrodFreeman andAshton Wright, while Kaden McCulloch, Thomas Mann, Brad Dessent and Mitch Thacker have come back. Dessent is aformer league leading goal kicker, while Thackerwas labelled Sale’smostimportant player duringits 2022 run to the grand final. With these two returning to help the club in a time of need, it is clearthere are Sale people whose hearts are in the right place.

It is also understood the Magpies are already in discussion withanumberofex-Saleplayers for next season.

The outs however are hard to ignore.

Shannon Lange, Jack Johnstone, Harry Tatterson, Will Leslie, Hudson Holmes, Tom Campbell, Hayden Potts, Nathan Whitford and Bohdi Walker are just afew who have gone, while Jack Leslie will be confined to the side lines due to injury.

Compounding the issue is the lack of under 18s.

“Hoping we’ll get them up, numbers are alittle light on at the moment, we’re positive about it but you never know,” Freeman told this masthead last week.

Sale has been publicly advertising under 18s to come and have akick, while it is understood the Magpies have even reached out to Maffra to send over surplus troops.

If Sale is asking Maffra for players, that would be an absolute last resort given there is no bigger rivalry in Gippsland footy.

That said, even somelong-standing Maffra officials were saddened to seethe Magpies struggle so much last season.

It should also be noted that the Magpies' current predicament is giving Anstee no joy whatsoever. While it is anyone's guess how long the rebuild will take, Sale has at least got some highly-respected club greats back on board.

Shane Fyfe, Jamie Sweeney, Kane Martin, Jordan Dessentand Anthony Dessent form awellcredentialled coaching group, and are among the greatest players to ever pull on the black and white. You can be surethey'd all be appalledatwhat took place last year, and will be doing all they can to steer the club on abetter path.

(N.B: This story has been some six months and countless phone calls in the making.Itisbyfar the wildest sports story I've ever encountered. This one will take some beating).

Conflicts of interest

FOOTBALL/NETBALL

THE local football/netball season commences this weekend. Our football and netball coverage is undoubtedly the most read section of the paper, and we aim to give each league thorough and extensive coverage. With the upmost respect to other codes, footballand netball (football especially) are easily the biggest sports in this region. On any Saturday coming up during winter, there will be 10 games at multiple venues spread across three leagues. In addition, there will also be competition matches played on Sundays and during the week.

Compare this to two soccer leagues, one basketball league, one baseball league and one hockey league, and it is inevitable football/netball receive the most pages. To the next point, our sport reporters this season are: Blake Metcalf-Holt, David Braithwaite, Erika Allen and myself. Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on yourviewpoint) someofusstill play footyfor localclubs,while others are heavily connected elsewhere.

Beforeanyone loses their mind,and to hopefully minimise any misunderstandings, declared conflicts of interest are: Blake Metcalf-Holt (Yallourn Yallourn North FNC), ErikaAllen (Boisdale-Briagolong) andLiam Durkin (Moe).

Practically speaking, only one league (MidGippsland) has adesignated publicity officer, so it makes sense to have Express reporters write on games they are going to be at in aplaying capacity. Not discountingthe potential for conflicts of interest to arise, any such instances will be handled tactfully. In sports journalism, you are required to 'barrack for the story' which meanssome clubs are, naturally, going to get more column inches.

Liam Durkin -LVE Editor

Moody moving the magnets in2026

NETBALL

GIPPSLAND

LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

EVERY competition has its strong teams.

Think Perth Scorchers in the BBL. Every era has its dynasties.

Think Brisbane Lions of the early 2000's. Every great team has an aura.

Think of the All Blacks.

Moe is the strongest team in Gippsland League netball, has created adynasty, and will carry an aura into season 2026.

The Lions will be going for an unprecedented fourthconsecutivepremiership,after becoming the first team in league history to win ahat-trick of titles last year.

So strong was Moe, many claimed they were the best team in Country Victoria.

They were so strong, VNL players couldn't even get on the court at times.

The new season brings with it awhole new complex however, and from the outset, it is already clear Moe won't be the totally dominant force that went18-0during the 2025 home-and-awayseason.

Goal shooters GeorgiaMoody and Ash Mawer will be busy on higher duties for at least the first half of the season, while key defender Ramayer Keilty will sit out due to pregnancy, and midcourter Charlize Bird is recovering from angle surgery.

The season is therefore shaping as atest of depth and adaptability for returning coach Alex Moody, who won't have afull squad to choose from every week.

Moody however was looking at the positives, and outlined the season ahead talkingwith the Express Liam Durkin: You guys are on an incredible run. The hunger is certainly still there?

Alex Moody: Absolutely. The group is still really hungry and motivated. While we’re proud of what we’ve achieved, the girls are very aware that every season is anew challenge and success isn’t agiven.

LD: Much as results speak for themselves, as a

coach you would know what’s worked in the past might no longer?

AM: That’s right. Netball evolves quickly and teams are always improving, so you can’t rely on the same formula every year. We’re always looking at waystotweak things and continue developing as agroup. We’re looking forward to new challenges this year.

Last year was agood reminder that finals netball is incredibly tough and nothingisguaranteed (Moe lost its first game all year in the semi-final).Itwas ateam learning and we were fortunate enough to have asecond chance.

LD: Willitvirtually be alike-for-like with

Maroons ready to step foot on new court and into new netty season

Succession: FionaMorrow (back row, thirdfromright) hastaken the step up to coach Traralgon’s A Grade,after coaching the Maroons’B Gradeteam the lastfew years, including to the 2024 premiership (pictured). File photograph

Ramayer Keilty going out and Emma McMillian coming in?

AM: Therewill be some similarities but every player brings something alittle different. Emma has settled in really well and we’re excited about what she’lladd to the group. Regardless of who returns or is added to our list, Em is going to be astrong asset for us that we’re fortunate to have.

LD: Great news for your sisterGeorgia being with the Vixens, but how much will this impact her availability for Moe?

AM: It’s fantastic news for both Georgia and Ash (Mawer) with the Mavs Reserves -we’re really proud of both of them. Losingyour only two goalers

and arguably your strongest team asset would impact any side. We’ve got great depth at the club and we’ll be relying on this for the first half of the season -afantastic opportunity for some B, Cand 17’s girls to play at ahigher level. We’ll look forward to Gand Ashreturning in Round 10.

LD: You’re also coaching BGrade.Has this been adeliberate move to bring the two teams closer?

AM: Yes, it was something Belinda Parise (ournetball co-ordinatorand my co-coach of B Grade) and Ithought could be beneficial. It helps strengthen the connection between the teams and ensures the same message is being passed onto girls who will most likely be elevatedinto AGrade to assist us this season. Our BGrade side has had a fantasticpreseason and we’re looking forward to seeing whatthe girlscan do comeRound 1.

LD: It won’t be too much workload?

AM: It definitelykeepsmebusy! We’ve got great supportaroundthe teams whichmakesit manageable.

LD: Disappointing news for Charlize Bird but she will still play an important role in support?

AM: It’s reallydisappointingfor Charlizebut this period of rehab for her has beenatrue testament to her character, work ethic and why she’s an invaluable asset to our side/the club. We’re hopeful she’ll returntousatsome point duringthe season when she’s back to full health.

LD: Unfortunately players move on and you’ve lost Hollie Bugeja back to Yinnar?

AM: We wish Hollie all the best in her future endeavours and recognise her contribution to our club. In asuccessful team sometimes every player doesn’t get the opportunities they crave. It’s part and parcel of high level sport that they move to a club that can provide them that court time for the betterment of their development.

LD: How excited are the netballers to make use of the new Commonwealth Games legacy facility?

AM: The girls are super excited. It’s going to be afantastic facility and something the whole club can really benefit from moving forward.

Morwell under no illusions after mass team changes

NETBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

YOU can't always have agreat team, but you can always have agreat club

No matter who plays netball for Morwell this year, they will be expected to maintain ahigh professional standard.

It's what has made the Tigers such apowerhouse in Gippsland League netball.

"The netball runs itself," was how one Morwell Football-Netball Club official once said of how well-oiled the club's program was.

Morwell head into thisyear'scampaign with a new-look team, but with afamiliarvoice calling the shots.

Rachel Patterson is back riding solo as A Grade coach.

The club favourite has been forced to recalibrate during preseason, after losing half the preliminary final side for various reasons.

Headlining the departures is keydefender Tanya Budge, who has taken awell-deserved retirement after some 400 career games.

Fellow defensive pillar Courtney Garth will also miss alarge chunkofthe season due to pregnancy.

Young guns Jayde Parsons(Maffra) and Holly Stephens (Longwarry) are also notable outs.

"It got that desperate for Morwell that the girls evenasked me to put on adress," Patterson said at last week's league launch.

"We've definitely re-evaluated our goals for this year.

"In the last few months especially, Chloe's really steppedup, which has been great for us as aclub.

"Anna is avibe, everyone loves her, she'snow going to be looking at being more of ageneral in that defensive end, whereas she is used to being led by the likes of Court and Tan, it is a different role but she is up for it."

While this season is looming as a'getthrough' year, the Tigers will be hoping that whatever happens, it puts them in astronger position for seasons to come.

"Our senior coaching group are really well connected," Patterson said.

Stepping up: Morwell AGrade skipper Chloe Radfordwilltakeonevenmore responsibility, aftermass changes to the team. File photograph NETBALL GIPPSLAND LEAGUE

BY LIAM DURKIN

TRARALGONpresents an interesting netball proposition as Round 1ofthe Gippsland League approaches this weekend.

The Maroons won eightgames and lost10last year. Theywill most likely need to flip that to 10-8 to make finals thisyear.

On paper at least, the side has lost some experience in the formofSophie Lecchino, who has joinedWarragulIndustrials,GraceVan Tilburg (Gormandale) and Milly Murphy (Morwell East). Someone whohas played morenetball games for Traralgon than anyone however is back, with club legend StaceyJacobsen returning to the court post-pregnancy.

Kasey Guttridge and Hannah Smith are also coming into AGrade;the former up from BGrade andthe latter from the 17 and under squad.

Guttridgewill haveafamiliar voice as coach,

with Fiona Morrow making the move from BGrade into the top flight.

"Overall preseason has been extremely positive. Awonderful vibe amongst all grades, who look to be competitive once again," she said.

"Strong junior teams, depth in the senior grades and the recruitment of exciting youngtalent to hopefully launch anew era for the club."

Thenew era will see the club finally unveil its new netballfacility, after waitingclose to fiveyears.

Morrowhas coachedthe Maroonstopremiership success in lower grades, and has used her networks to help bolster the AGrade squad.

Young guns Lara Noblett and Marley Wallace havebeen recruitedfrom MidGippsland clubs, and are both apartofthe Gippsland Stars' under 23 program.

"It’s an exciting time to be part of the Maroons netball program this year," Morrow said.

"Newcoaching appointments in five of six grades, the inclusion of new and returning players across all grades, anew pavilion with netball specific amenities almost complete, and anew netball court."

"When you have two ACLs in 2025,that's going to hurt anyclub,retirement and pregnancies, so when look that, we've lost five players straight up, so that's "We've made acommitment and as acoaching group just want to work on year and give as many some exposure to senior Grade netball."

Morwell captain and Gippsland Stars Anna Solomon will required to take on responsibility.

"Chloe expects al fro mc oach es and anyone who steps on thecourtwithher," Patterson said.

"Myself, Claire (B Grade coach Claire Marks), Lozzie and H(CGrade coaches Laura Marino and Hayely Stringer), we're all helping each the grades so we want to see that cy from AGrade down to CGrade flowing into our juniors as well." rwell certainly won't be easybeats, sr ecrui ted former Adela ide Thunderbirds and Collingwood midcourAtlmann to its line-up. 32-year-old South Australian played games at Suncorp Super Netball level between 2019 and 2020.

Control, alt, don’t delete: Has Morwell actuallylanded the biggestrecruit in Gippsland League netball? The Tigerswill have former Suncor pplayer KellyAtlmann playing this season. Photograph supplied

Welcometothe newage, Football VictoriaLatrobeValleyishere

SOCCER LVSL

BY LIAM DURKIN

DON'T forget the 'other' football code.

The Latrobe Valley Soccer League season kicks off this weekend.

You can saykick off in soccer -because that's exactly what takes place.

TheLVSL is set foranew look campaign on a number of fronts -not least the new name.

The league is now officially called: Football Victoria Latrobe Valley.

Football Victoria has taken over full running of thecompetition, after managing various aspects last season.

The seasonitselfrunsparallel to the local Australian rules football season, making for a more traditional winter sport timeslot.

Across theleague, teams are also offering new propositions.

On paper at least, league champion Moe looks somewhatweaker, given the absence of the two Connor's.

Star striker ConnorO'Hanlon has returned overseas, while Connor Dastey is trying his hand at the next level with Gippsland United.

Although the Red Devils won the championship lastseason,their fortunes changed markedly when O'Hanlon returned to the squad.

Moe wasalsohelped by some late season results falling its way, after Olympians seemingly cost itself awalk-in championship by not taking points when expected.

Process: Departing Latrobe ValleySoccer League chairman Allan Roberts handsover to Football VictoriaRegionalDevelopment Coordinator,Jackson Landy

Two come-from-behind wins against Falcons (the secondamiraculous final-minutethriller) also required the Red Devils to pull some rabbits out of the hat.

If luck did in fact playa part,league pundits won't be too surprised if Moe finds itself on the other side of the ledger this time around.

As they say though,the harder youwork, the luckier you get, and there can be little surprise why the Red Devils are one of the most successful clubs in the league.

Moe has had achangeofcoach,with Lachie McKenzie stepping up from assistant.

"Looking to go back-to-back in league titles which hasn't been done at our club since 1988/89," he said.

"Veryexperienced squadthat's been playing together for anumber of years.

"Excited to give an opportunity for some kids thathave been playing well in the reserves the last couple of seasons."

McKenzie knows culture and knows the club inside out, meaning the Red Devils should be in good handsregardless of who takes the pitch.

Don't forget, not many were rating Moe's chances this time last year either.

Perennial challengerFalcons lookstohave a new focus.

While lastyear wasperhaps adevelopment season,following some player movementafter neighbouring club Fortuna went to the state league, the Birds are bullish about their chances in 2026.

The clubisnow accustomed to playing away from home, and with virtually the same squad that finished third, conventional wisdom appears to be working in their favour.

"Falcons' junior development program is starting

LVSL ins and outs

Moe United

 LAST SEASON:CHAMPIONS

Coach: Lachie McKenzie

In: Kurt Jagger (Melbourne)

Out: Connor Dastey (Gippsland United), Connor O'Hanlon (overseas), Sam Lietzau (retired)

Olympians

 LAST SEASON:RUNNER-UP

Coach: Anton Sbaglia

In: Dylan Dunstall, Daniel Cooper, Liam Brock, Daouda Camara (Sale United), Abdi Hassan

Out: Jaydon Steele, Jared Goodwin, Chris Panayiotou

Falcons 2000

 LAST SEASON:THIRD

Coach: Adrian Salvatore

In: Sam Amaira (returning), Christian Guarascio (Gippsland United)

Outs: Lachlan Frendo (Fortuna)

Sale United

 LAST SEASON:FOURTH

Coaches: Romi Bitar and Anouk Meereboer

In: Joe Wood, Tom Garner, Jonah Willan (all UK), Joel Hector, Adam Hurley (both returning)

Out: Kosta Moutoulis (RAAF relocation), Daouda Camara (Olympians), Souley Camara (France)

Monash

 LAST SEASON:FIFTH

Coaches: Callum Polo and Ethan Lawrence

Churchill

 LAST SEASON:SIXTH

Coach: Bradley Sands

In: Ryan Ayres (Gippsland United), Logan Winter (Trafalgar), Connor McGivern (Gippsland United)

Out: Kuku Mahammud (Pegasus)

East Gippsland

 LAST SEASON:SEVENTH

Newb-YallournUnited

 LAST SEASON:EIGHTH

Coach: John Mcquade

In: Junior Kakaluae, Lucas Vick, Jack Donohue, Steffan Aboltins

Outs: Enda Murphy

Traralgon City

 LAST SEASON:NINTH

Pegasus

 LAST SEASON:NA

In: Kuku Mahammud, Cholil Nyachiol, Sean Ngwenga

to bear fruit,with araft of 15-17 yearsoldsattending senior preseason training," senior games record holder Joe Auciello said.

"We are looking to blood youth this year whilst still remaining competitive.

"Much the same squad as last year which will look to compete on all fronts."

Auciellohimself confirmed he would mainly play in the reservesthis season in order to look after thefuture of the club, but would be willing to fill in for the seniors when needed.

Olympians will have redemption front of mind, after seeingthe league championship slip through its fingertips.

The team from Traralgon wasthe only side to defeat Moe last season, and did so convincingly, 4-1.

Anyone watching that night would have been convinced the league championship was amere formality.

Theseason however pivoteddramatically,and Olympians missed what would have been afairy tale titlegiven the club wasn't even fielding asenior men's team three years ago.

The fairy tale can still be achieved however, just with an extra chapter.

Olympians at least got out of last season with the BattleofBritain cup, and will want to continueon its winning way under young coach Anton Sbaglia.

Churchill could be the bolter of season 2025.

TheRamsshowed some very good signslatelast season,and haveadded GippslandUnited gun Ryan Ayres to its roster.

Ayres can perform in big moments, highlighted by his recent finals series with the cricket bat, where he virtually won Churchill the premiership single-handedly.

The Rams have also picked up Connor McGivern fromGippsland United, and Logan Winter from Trafalgar.

McGivern is acentral midfielder, while Winter has won three of the last four golden boots for Trafalgar in the Gippsland Soccer League.

The GSL is however considered amarkedly lower standard than the LVSL, so it will be interesting to see if Winter finds goals harder to come by.

Churchill also has Jacob Cheneyback at his home club after playing with Gippsland United.

The Rams were hurt last season after an administration error cost it points, meaning its final finishing position of sixth was arguably not atrue reflection of its standing.

Monash, who haveproven anemesistoa few sides in recent years, look to be taking the same squad into 2026.

The Wolves gained plenty of street credit for making cup finals in seniors and reserves last season, and should be confident as aresult.

Newborough-Yallourn Unitedwill be out to be as competitive as possible, in what is looming as a'getthrough'season for the Combine.

It couldbeasimilarstory for East Gippsland United, who are reportedly struggling for numbers.

Sale United will again rely heavily on its RAAF influence, meaning you never quite know how strong they are going to be.

The Swansfinisheda creditable fourth last season, and could snag agun on deployment from the air force for the season.

Aclub officialsaidSale was "hoping to challenge the title aspirants again this year, playing an exciting attacking brand of football".

LVSL players can expect to see greater Football Victoria presence,asthe governingbodyhas taken over all operations.

That means FV run fixtures, referee appointments and any dramas from club land.

FV ran the senior men's competition last season, whilethe LVSLkept aholdonother competitions.

It is felt that havingFVoversee all operations will lightenthe load on clubvolunteers, who were in the unenvious position of trying to perform multiple roles with the league as well as their own clubs.

Football Victoria Regional Development Coordinator forGippsland, JacksonLandy, comes with skin in the localgame, being acurrentplayer withTrafalgar, an LVSL refereeand aformer junior at Traralgon City.

He said clubs and the outgoing LVSL board had been amicable in the handover process.

"All the clubs havebeen verywelcoming, appreciative and supportive of Football Victoria's influence across the region," he said.

"What we are going to see is awhole of football delivery, so it's not justusrunningthe competition.

"It's awhole of footballdelivery from Football Victoria this year and going forward."

The history of the LVSL will be preserved in the newly named league. LVSL life members and legends will now be given equal status in Football Victoria.

Fixtures arenow available online through Drible Match Centre.

Round 1: Sale United vs Churchill (Saturday, April 11), Falcons vs Monash (Sunday, April 12), Pegasus vs Olympians,Traralgon CityvsMoe, NYU vs East Gippsland.

Legend by any other name

SOCCER

LVSL BY LIAM DURKIN

MADDIE Breaks-cheer

Sale UnitedSoccer Clublegend Madelaine

Breakspear's legacy in the Latrobe Valley Soccer League is enshrined, after she was awarded life membershipofthe competition

Breakspear has been atrailblazer for the women's game,playing for and coaching countless teams at club and representativelevel

Her list of achievements would just about fill this entirenewspaper.

“Thenominationcame with 20 pagesofsupporting information, atestament to her outstanding dedicationand impact," outgoing LVSL chair Allan Roberts said during the presentation.

Breakspear has played at Victoria Country level, although her heartremains firmly entrenched at Sale United.

She has been amainstay with the Swans, coaching the senior women's team, turning them into a true powerhouse in recent seasons.

Abreakthrough championship came in 2023 (captained by former Expressjournalist Zoe Askew incidentally), leadingtoaswagoftrophiesand leaguechampionships since.

Humbly accepting the honour, the young mother thanked all who had supported her on her soccer journey.

"I'm very honoured, soccer is my life," shesaid.

"The years go by and you just keep doing what

you're doing, and all of asudden, (you realise), you'vedonea lot."

Breakspear (nee Richardson)paidparticular credittoher mum, Darleen Richardson, who clocked up countless hours in the car driving her back and forth to Melbourne duringher younger years.

"She is an absolute angel, she is as much of a soccermum as me now," Breakspear said. Still loving the game, and stillone of the best women's playersinthe league, the now official legenddoesn'tplan on stopping anytime soon "As long as my body willlet me."

Soccer still strong after 75 years

SOCCER

LVSL BY LIAM DURKIN

THE local soccer fraternity last week gathered to officially commence the start of the 2026 season.

Trophies were displayed in the foyer of the MorwellBowling Club's functionspace,the very same thatwill be contested by teams over the next few months.

Football Victoria representatives joined clubs, for what is the 75th anniversary of the LVSL.

Football Victoria Regional Development Coordinator (Gippsland) Jackson Landy made a presentation on the history of the league.

Pastor Norman Minor is generally credited as the founder of soccerinthe Latrobe Valley,establishing what was to become the organised competition.

The league itself is steeped in rich history.

The Battle of Britain Cup, playedfor between seniormen's teams after theregular season, is the oldest soccer trophy in regional Victoria.

Local clubs have also achieved highly, playing at provincial and state level.

Moe United had as ti nt in the Victorian Provisional League from 1979 to 1983, while neighbouringclub Newborough-Yallourn United

famouslywon the highest division in Victorian State League in 1951 (as Yallourn).

Currently, Foruna '60 competes in state league, following fellow Morwell club Pegasus, who tested thewatersthis century.

Home changes, goals don’t

SOCCER

LVSL

BY LIAM DURKIN

INCONVENIENCED once again, but that won't stop Falcons goingfor aLatrobe Valley soccertitle. It's in their DNA.

Falcons 2000 continue to play the waiting game, as works on its new facility drag on.

TheBirds will again make Morwell Recreation Reserve their home for season 2026, after spending the back-half of last season at Keegan Street.

Falcons Park (Latrobe City Sports Stadium), is currently undergoing redevelopment, as part of Commonwealth Games Legacy.

The venue was to host rugby sevens at this year’s Commonwealth Games, now taking place in Glasgow.

Falcons president Tony Salvatoresaidworks are progressing ahead of schedule, and will be well worth the wait.

"It's now coming out of the ground, there's quite alot of things happening, I've had awalk through,

it's looking impressive," the Falcons chief said.

"It's goingtobea world-class facility, $45 million -it'sgoing to be big. Not just for Falcons, they want to run some outdoor events, ALeague games, it's going to be great for the sport."

Falcons will playhome games on the Morwell Rec synthetic, and use Morwell Cricket Club's social room as its headquarters.

Salvatore said the cricket club and football-netball club had been outstanding in the process.

Plans are in place for the clubs to share agame, playing asoccer and football/netball game on the sameday at Morwell Recreation Reserve.Attendees will only need to pay for entry to see one code, and money raised will go to charity.

Falconsare workingtoensurethe legacy of its previous stadium, built by members, will not be lost in the new structure.

The famousDon Di Fabrizio grandstandhas been demolished, but the patron's name will remain on the new pavilion.

In somethinglikeasceneout of Raiders of the Lost Ark, trophieswon by Falcons over its storied history are currently been held in shipping containers.

SaleUnited hasone of thestrongest women's teams in country Victoria, and has shown-up a number of well-credentialled city sides during preseason games in recent years.

Falcons 2000 put Morwell on the map, making

it all the way to the National Soccer League (now ALeague) in the 1990's.

One of the club's favourite sons, MannyGelagotis, was guest of honour at the league's launch last week.

The Moe local spoke of his career playing for a host of clubs, namely the Red Devils, Warragul United and Traralgon Olympians, before asurreal twist of fate saw him return to Falcons after originally been given his marching orders.

Playing forPort Melbourne under the legendary FrankArok, the two teamed up when the planets aligned.

Arok was sacked at Port, and then signed at Falcons.

Not knowing Gelagotis was from Moe, the new coach rang to gauge his interest, and was left rather bemused after learning he had aplayer from "the town before".

Gelagotis went on to play more than 100 games at the top level, before Falcons' untimely demise from the national league.

The self-confessed "battler" said he got through mainly on determination, and awillingness to do whatever the coach asked.

With that same attitude,there is no reason local LVSL playerscan't also achieve highly.

Pegasus return to seniors

SOCCER LVSL BY LIAM DURKIN

GUESS who's back PegasusSoccer Club are returningtothe Latrobe ValleySoccer League'sseniormen’s competition.

The Horsemendid not field asideinthe men's division last season, but maintaineda club presence in the interim.

Pegs fielded junior teams, and will now have evenmore activity going on at Ronald Reserve. Returning player Kuku Mahammud has formed akey to the club's revival.

The 2023 LVSLPlayer of the Year said allwas

positive as the start of the season approached.

"Excited for the season," he said.

"Having something for the juniors to be excited about, being able to enjoy the game (will be great).

"Everything is going well, training, culture, support from the club."

Pegs will renew its rivalry with fellow Morwell clubs Falcons and Fortuna.

Pegs was the junior club of Central Coast Mariners' all-time games record holder John Hutchinson.

Hutchinson, who played in Pegs' 1996 LVSL senior men's championship team as a17-yearold, went on to play 271 games for Central Coast.