BAIRNSDALE
PAST STUDENTS of Bairnsdale High and Technical Schools will meet for their monthly lunch at the Bairnsdale Bowls club on Wednesday, October 29. Students and friends are most welcome. The topic of conversation will feature teachers of the 1950-1975 era.
OCTOBER IS MOTORCYCLE Awareness month, with police reminding all road users that road safety is a shared responsibility. So far this year, 48 motorcyclists have lost their lives on Victorian roads, that’s more than one rider every week. Riders don’t have the same protection, luxuries or safety features that car drivers have, so authorities are encouraging motorcyclists to wear the right protective gear, stay visible, ride to the conditions and obey the road rules. Drivers are reminded to check their blind spots use their indicators and allow enough space for motorcyclists to manoeuvre safely.
LEVEL CROSSING WORKS will take place through to the last service on Thursday, October 23. To ensure these works can be completed safely, coaches will replace trains between Southern Cross and East Pakenham. Trains will run between East Pakenham, Traralgon and Bairnsdale. Passengers with accessibility needs are advised to call 1800 800 007 before travelling so they can be provide the best possible service for your journey.
LAST WEEK BAIRNSDALE Landfill took delivery of a state-of-the-art Bomag BC 573 RB-5 refuse compactor, designed for unmatched crushing power. The new compactor will help achieve better waste compaction, reduce landfill volume and extend the site’s lifespan. It’s a major investment in more sustainable waste management for the region.
VICTORIAN PREMIER, JACINTA Allan has announced free public transport for every weekend from early December until February, as part of the launch of the Metro Tunnel. Posting on social media the premier described it as a “thank you” to commuters for enduring disruptions as the project was built. Over the summer, the tunnel will run every 20 minutes between 10am to 3pm on weekdays, and 10am to 7pm on weekends. Then on February 1, under a full timetable overhaul dubbed the “big switch”, Cranbourne, Pakenham and Sunbury lines will begin exclusively using the tunnel.
COUNTRY FIRE AUTHORITY (CFA) is grateful for the support that private appliances and landholders provide. Throughout Victoria’s history, members of the community have often brought their own equipment to help protect their homes, farms, and neighbours during fires and CFA itself grew out of that community spirit. It’s a great example of local support and initiative but always remember your safety comes first. If you are using your private appliance at a bushfire, you may need to get it through a Traffic Management Point (TMP) to gain access and for that, you will need a TMP Access Sticker. Access must also be authorised by the Incident Controller. Vehicle must be ready and requirements may include registered, roadworthy, serviced and mechanically sound (to VicRoads standards) and loaded weight under the Gross Vehicle Mass requirement for that vehicle. Tank, pump and fittings should be securely mounted and mechanically sound, with a UHF radio fitted and working, first-aid kit and woollen blanket on board, with a amber rotating beacon for smoky conditions. The crew must also be protected, with cotton/natural fibre overalls or long-sleeve shirt and trousers, sturdy leather boots, leather gloves, industrial helmet with chin strap, goggles or eye protection, respirator / P2 or similar mask (when needed), hearing protection (if required), while drinking water, food and snacks are also suggested.
INSTALLATION IS UNDERWAY at the Bairnsdale Regional Health Services for the new $1.5 million Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) unit, the first of its kind in Australia. This world-class device will enable earlier and more accurate diagnoses for musculoskeletal, spinal, neurological, and abdominal conditions, while also reducing scan times to improve patient comfort.
GREAT NEWS FOR kebab lovers, with Doner Kebabs now open seven days a week.
VIBRANT, COLOURFUL AND imaginative art work from East Gippsland prep to year 12 students is currently on display as part of the Next Generation: Celebrating Young Artists exhibition, at the East Gippsland Art Gallery until October 25. There is amazing works from students from Bairnsdale Secondary College, Buchan Primary School, East Gippsland Specialist School, Homeschool Community, Lindenow Primary School, Nagle College, Nungurner Primary School, Metung Primary School, Omeo Primary School, Paynesville Primary School, St Joseph’s Primary School, St Mary’s Primary School, Swan Reach Primary School, Tambo Upper Primary School and Toorloo Arm Primary School.
MAGPIES ARE ACTIVELY swooping in large numbers. Punters can keep yourself and our wildlife safe by checking out the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action’s (DEECA) handy map of the locations of swooping birds. If you come across a swooping bird during their nesting season, you can use this map to pinpoint the location where the incident occurred, state the date the swooping occurred, identify the species and number of birds involved and provide any additional comments. All Victorian native wildlife is protected by law, and it is illegal to harass or harm native birds and other wildlife without authorisation.
BOGONG
A WEBINAR WILL be held this Thursday from 8pm to learn about the Aussie Bogong moth. Once abundant in the Australian Alps and East Gippsland, Bogong moth numbers are falling, putting these vital pollinators at serious risk. Dr Kate Umbers and a panel of experts will explain why the Bogong moths matter, why they’re in trouble and what we can do to help. This is a chance to understand a species that once lit up our night skies and why protecting it matters for East Gippsland and beyond.
GIPPSLAND LAKES
LAST WEEK SAW World Habitat Day, celebrating the wonderful pelican, who are a common sight on the Gippsland Lakes and a central part of the local Gunaikurnai people’s creation story. Widespread on freshwater, estuarine, marine wetlands and waterways, pelicans are excellent soarers and use thermals to reach amazing altitudes, sometimes up to three kilometres above the earth. By moving from one thermal to the next, they can travel long distances with a minimum of effort, reaching air speeds of more than 50 kilometres per hour, all while staying in the air for up to 24 hours. The Gippsland Lakes are home to one of only two known breeding sites and rookeries for pelicans in Victoria.
HEYFIELD
MAFFRA POLICE WERE patrolling town on October 6, when they observed a white Daihatsu Terios loitering around a local business. After intercepting the vehicle, it was found the driver had a real passion for arts and crafts, as he had made a set of number plates out of household items. Unfortunately for the man of the moment had not made plates that matched the VIN of the vehicle, likely because the registration was suspended. When informed his vehicle would be impounded as a result of his cancelled licence, the driver was well versed in the process as it had only been a fortnight since police had impounded one of his other vehicles. His vehicle was impounded for a period of 30 days at a cost of $950 and he will receive a summons at a later date.
THE LOCAL GARDEN Club recently hosted a day out at the National Rhododendron Gardens in Dandenong. Lots of new faces joined the excursion, enjoying the magnificent garden on display. The next trip will be to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show on March 26, 2026.
LONGFORD
THE LOCAL COMMUNITY market has made the switch to the twilight zone for the summer. Instead of the usual morning Sunday market, it will operate from 3pm-7pm. The November 9 event will feature an open mic session, with December 14 the annual Christmas festival, while February 8 will be summer nights, sip and chill. The market takes place at the Longford Recreation Reserve.
MAFFRA
THEREE WAS SUCCESS for local business, Infusa Distillery, at the Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards recently. They won a silver medal for their Whey Vodka and bronze medals for their Signature Dry Gin, Loggers Cut Whey Vodka and Cappuccino Liqueur. Those efforts came off the back of being a 2025 Gippsland Business Awards Finalist in the Food and Agribusiness category, as well as being nominated for the Latrobe City Business Chamber People’s Choice Awards. Their commitment to collaboration is what makes them truly stand out, partnering with local producers, using whey from Maffra Cheese Company, coffee from Fat Cat Coffee Roasters, and strawberries from The Berry Dairy to craft their distinctive Gippsland flavours. The business continues to grow and will soon be moving into a bigger, new home in Traralgon.
PAYNESVILLE
COUNTRY WOMENS ASSOCIATION (CWA) of Victoria, Paynesville Toonalook Branch, is presenting four local gardens open for display as part of the CWA Festival of Gardens on Saturday from 10am to 3pm. The journey will start at the Uniting Church (43 Langford Parade), where you will pay your admission and are given a wristband for entry and a mud map. You can enjoy a Devonshire Tea prior to visiting the gardens. On sale will be CWA books, craft items and plants. Small garden-tool sharpening will also be available. CWA supports vulnerable women, children and families in the local community.
RAYMOND ISLAND
THE RAYMOND ISLAND Community Garden group will be celebrating its 10th year of operation this Saturday with an open garden and activities from 2.30-4.30pm. There will be activities for children and an afternoon tea. The garden is behind the Community Hall in Fifth Parade, Raymond Island.
ROSEDALE
DEL JARDIN had to close for a period of time last week with a red belly black snake making himself comfortable.
SALE
GIPPSLAND GRAMMAR SCHOOL will hold its 2025 decades reunion this Saturday at Garnsey Campus from 3-5.30pm. It will feature 60, 50, 40, 30, 20 and 10-year get togethers.
THERE WAS A major milestone last week in the Wellington Shire Council with the official opening of the redeveloped Aqua Energy facility, incorporating a new seven-lane 25-metre pool, water play areas, 24-hour gym, sauna and improved change facilities. Local builder Andrew Duffield oversaw the $23 million build for Bairnsdale-based Brooker Builders, with funding secured from all three levels of government and the John Leslie Foundation. The new facility, with its expansive views of Lake Guthridge, will be a centrepiece recreational facility for the shire for decades to come.
IT’S CRIME PREVENTION week and the Victoria Police Wellington Proactive Unit will be holding a pop up information desk for Crime Prevention and Community Safety in the Bunnings Cafe on Thursday from 8.30-10.30am. They will also have on hand the anti-theft screws for your vehicles number plates to help prevent number plate thefts.
CAR THEFT CONTINUE to occur at alarming rates. Owners are reminded the best way to protect your car is to lock the doors, remove the keys and keep them out of sight. It’s the extra steps that provide a little peace of mind. Some ways you can make it harder for an opportunistic thief the next time you pull up to your destination, by not leaving your keys in your car or leaving your vehicle running or unattended. When parking, if possible, park near a well-lit building or streetlight. At home, always lock your garage door, and if you have a gate across your driveway keep it closed. Invest in an anti-theft device that is best suited for your car and install motion sensor lights and cameras in your garage or carport.
NEW GIPPSLAND GRAMMAR School principal, Dr Paul Walton, began his tenure at the commencement of term four. The award-winning educator is from England and holds dual doctorates in education and educational leadership and management. He is recognised globally for his expertise in school improvement, leadership coaching and innovative teaching practice.
STRATFORD
SCHOOL IS BACK and Wellington Highway Patrol are reminding drivers when approaching school crossings, they need to slow down to 40 kilometres an hour or less, watch for children and remember, the crossing must be completely clear of all pedestrians, including the crossing supervisor, before driving through. Always avoid parking too close to school crossings, as supervisors need a clear field of view in all directions to keep everyone safe. Reduced speed limits, school crossings and parking restrictions around schools are in place to manage traffic flow during peak times and maximise safety for children and all road users.
WELLINGTON SHIRE COUNCIL will receive $354,200 from the State Government to continue funding the local libraries during the 2025/26 period. It runs six libraries, including Stratford, Heyfield, Maffra, Rosedale, Sale, and Yarram, as well as weekly outreach services to Briagolong, Golden Beach and Loch Sport.
SWAN REACH
SADLY DUE TO rising rent costs, the fuel station has closed. Hopefully it will reopen soon under new management.
YARRAM
YARRAM DISTRICT HEALTH Service is rolling out the red carpet for its first Gala Ball this Saturday night. It will be a night of elegance, entertainment and heartfelt giving at the stunning Regent Theatre, all while supporting a good cause – the palliative care room upgrades. The black tie glamour evening will feature music, entertainment and auctions.
GIPPSLAND GRAMMAR SCHOOL year 10 student, Vienna Langdon has been named a finalist in this year’s Parliament Prize. The annual competition invites students across Victoria to imagine themselves as Members of Parliament and deliver a 90-second speech on an issue they are passionate about. Out of more than 1100 entries statewide, Langdon placed in the top 10 of her category. Her chosen topic, deepfakes and the need for stronger regulation of artificial intelligence, was delivered with passion and clarity, impressing the judges. She is a strong advocate for young people having a voice in Parliament and encourages youth participation in our democratic processes.
COUNTRY MUSIC DUO Ally Row, recently released debut album, Something More, reached number five on the ARIA Top 20 Australian Country Albums.
