BAIRNSDALE
POLICE ARE REMINDING farmers and rural communities across the region to remain vigilant around fuel storage, particularly as fuel prices continue to increase. While they have not yet noted a rise in reported incidents, higher fuel costs could lead to an increase in opportunistic theft, especially in farming areas. Victoria Police are increasing patrols in farming areas, using intelligence tools to identify hotspots and monitoring traffic moving in rural areas. They will take a zero-tolerance approach to persons being on farms without authorisation. Farmers are encouraged to secure tanks with strong locks and anti-siphon devices. Install CCTV to monitor the storage area and access points, while considering installing motion sensors and additional lighting. Advice is to lock gates, machinery, sheds and storage tanks whilst not in use. Keys should be stored in a secure location away from machinery, with the machinery, tools and fuel cells in secure buildings or well-lit areas. Being proactive may help prevent theft.
THE ALLAN STATE Government has announced free Public Transport Across Victoria, starting on April 1 and it’s no joke. it will include trains, trams and buses, both metro and regional. This is a major move by the State Government to help ease cost-of-living pressure, with fuel prices continuing to bite hard for families. There will be no need to tap your myki, ticket gates will be open and if you are accidentally charged, you will be refunded. Myki passes will be paused and extended. The plan is to get more people out of their cars, reduce fuel demand, and give households a bit of breathing room financially. Please keep in mind, services are expected to be busier than usual, so plan ahead if you’re travelling. This is only a temporary measure, but right now, it’s a big win for commuters and families doing it tough.
EIGHT OF THE 12 East Gippsland youth ambassadors came together last weekend at Camp Coolamatong for a two-day camp which provided them with an opportunity to learn about local government and their roles, strengthen teamwork, and to begin identifying priority focus areas for the year ahead. East Gippsland Shire Council mayor, Cr Jodie Ashworth joined the group on Friday, sharing insights into her role and her pathway into local government.
THE PUBLIC TOILET in the Nicholson Street Mall, Bairnsdale, has been temporarily closed due to ongoing vandalism, antisocial and unlawful behaviour. Over the past six months, the facilities have been damaged almost weekly, including broken fixtures, damaged automatic door sensors requiring specialist repairs, repeated graffiti and broken glass. Despite regular cleaning, repairs and repainting (sometimes multiple times a day) the level of damage has made the toilets unsafe and impractical to keep open. This temporary closure supports the work the East Gippsland Shire Council is doing with traders and Victoria Police to address immediate safety concerns while continuing to work towards long–term revitalisation of the area. The council reminds people that if anyone experiences activity in the mall area or anywhere else that involves unlawful or dangerous behaviour – such as threats to personal safety, property damage, drug–related activity, or violence – please refer the matter immediately to Victoria Police on 000.
POLICE ARE APPEALING for the public’s assistance to help locate Darcy Thorpe. He has breached his bail and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. Thorpe is known to frequent the Bairnsdale, Lakes Entrance, Sale, Stratford and Maffra areas. Anyone with information on Thorpe’s whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online report to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
RECENTLY 100 STUDENTS from Bairnsdale Secondary College attended the year eight Resilience Camp out at Camp Coolamatong on the Banksia Peninsula. Activities were specifically designed around building resilience and respect for each other and our differences and included canoeing, bike riding, climbing, raft building and archery to name a few. While there, students also had the unique opportunity to participate in workshops designed and delivered by The Reach Foundation who are renowned for their inspiring and impactful programs for young people. In all, it was a jam-packed, fun few days for the students, who challenged themselves beyond their boundaries, made new friends, and created lasting memories while developing confidence and a stronger sense of connection.
LATE NIGHT MISCHIEF, rainbow pets and local creativity are three new exhibitions that opened last week at the East Gippsland Art Gallery. All three exhibitions are on show until April 24.
LAST WEEK, NAGLE College captains and vice captains travelled to Melbourne to attend the annual GRIP Leadership Conference. This conference gave students a range of strategies, ideas and points of discussion to bring back to Nagle to continue in their leadership roles.
DWYERS TOYOTA IS delighted to share that dealer principal Anthony Dwyer, general sales manager Trent McKenzie, and fixed operations manager Clint Anderson represented the company at a very successful Dealer of the Year Awards recently. The local company is honoured to receive multiple awards, including Toyota Knight (sales in PMA), Parts and Service Excellence, and Used Vehicle Excellence. These achievements are a true reflection of their dedicated and loyal team, whose hard work, commitment, and passion continue to drive the company’s success every day.
BENAMBRA
THE LOCAL NEIGHBOURHOOD House, Benambra Men’s Shed, Omeo District Health and the High Country Omeo Mens Shed crew attended the Victorian Men’s Shed Association Conference in Sale last week. The event was full of fun, laughter and important information about health and wellbeing, shed talk and advice. The next conference will be in Bendigo on May 18.
BENDOC
LAST SUNDAY SAW the Hill for Heroes Community Walk, a fantastic example of a small rural community coming together to support veterans through the Soldier On March Challenge. Participants walked from the Bendoc Hall to Delegate Hill and back (19 kilometres). They then enjoyed a barbecue supplied by the Bendoc Hotel, CFA and Neighbourhood House. The event brought together locals, veterans, emergency services and the broader community in support of those who have served our country. Caroline Marshall, co-owner of the Bendoc Hotel and an Army reservist, took part in the 384-kilometre challenge throughout March. Sunday marked the final leg of her journey, the equivalent of 96km per week, or the full distance of the Kokoda Track. An outstanding effort and a powerful reminder of the resilience and commitment shown by those who serve.
BUCHAN
THERE HAS BEEN lots of progress on site at Buchan Recreation Reserve, with the new pavilion and facilities really starting to take shape. The kitchen and bar areas are coming together, floor coverings are complete, painting is underway, with the verandah, decking and footpaths finished. Seating, stairs and sheds are progressing, with the netball, cricket and oval upgrades underway. Solar panels and battery storage are being installed. The final electrical and plumbing works are about to start, with handrails and balustrades, and the continued external works.
GLENMAGGIE
IF YOU ARE heading out to Lake Glenmaggie, you might notice some new signs around the place. Southern Rural Water has installed five emergency markers at key spots to help make things a bit safer. If something goes wrong, these markers give you a clear way to describe exactly where you are, so emergency services can get to you quicker. You will find them at Sandy Point boat ramp, MacAlister Drive (Coongulla) boat ramp and Weir Reserve.
HEYFIELD
THE 43RD ANNUAL Vintage Machinery Rally is not far away. Members have been working hard to prepare for another fantastic event, always striving to make the next event better than the last. With something for everyone, this year’s event will include steam engines, tractors, hit’n’miss engines, cars, trucks, horses, market stalls, blacksmiths and more. The event will be held on May 16-17 at the Gordon Street Reserve, between the hours of 9.30am-3pm.
THE COMMUNITY BANK Heyfield and District has donated $500 to the local junior netball team to help provide new netballs and junior rings for their young players. The bank is delighted to support a wonderful club is run by dedicated volunteers, who are helping nurture a great group of up-and-coming girls in the local community.
LINDENOW
DUE TO UNFORESEEN circumstances, modified operating hours will apply at the Metung, Marlo and Lindenow transfer stations throughout April. Lindenow will be open on Sunday from 12pm to 4pm, Marlo open daily except Mondays from 9am to 12pm and Metung open daily except Sundays from 8am to 12pm. Residents are encouraged to use nearby transfer stations where convenient. The East Gippsland Shire Council apologises for any inconvenience and appreciates your patience while normal operations are restored as soon as possible.
THE LINDENOW SPORTS Ground Committee of Management is currently looking for new members to assist with planning for the future and encourages anyone interested in getting involved to come along to their next meeting on Wednesday, April 8 at the clubrooms at 7pm. The committee of management is a volunteer group from the community and user groups responsible for the running and maintenance of the local sports ground facilities. Meetings are held four times a year and they work with council to maintain the facilities.
THE LOCAL FIRE Brigade will celebrate 80 years with a community open day and barbecue on Sunday, April 12 from 10am-2pm.
LUCKNOW
THERE WAS A great turnout at the Explore Your Paths’ Careers Expo last week, hosted by Gippsland East LLEN. Students from years nine–12 from across the East Gippsland and Wellington shires connected with local organisations, explored training opportunities and learned more about careers that may be of interest to them. Council was pleased to be involved, with mayor, councillor Jodie Ashworth stopping by and staff showcasing the diverse roles available from communications, community engagement and open spaces. Events like this provide valuable opportunities for local kids to see what career pathways are possible right here in our own backyard.
THE ROTARY CLUB of Bairnsdale Sunrise is building a Bike Education track in Eastwood, adjacent to Lucknow School. Eastwood and surrounding areas have seen a significant increase in the population over the past 10 years, with the motivation for this project was driven by a variety of factors. There are many studies indicating that the physical and mental health of many children and adults is being compromised by a lack of regular outdoor physical activity. Leisure time is becoming increasingly screen focused, a follow on from COVID-19 lockdowns and the Sarsfield bushfires. Regular outdoor physical activity, according to the Australian and New Zealand Mental Health Association, cites that daily exercise allows for, a stronger heart and healthier lungs, curbs anxiety and promotes mindfulness, can be a healthy outlook for those who have experienced trauma and importantly, increases focus and motivation. One of the top recommendations for people diagnosed with ADHD disorder is regular outdoor exercise. East Gippsland has a large number of bike tracks for people of all bike abilities to enjoy, however, nearest bike education track is located at Morwell and at over 20 years old, is looking a bit weary. The Rotary club is working with the Active Transport Group, who have a number of individuals trained to teach bike education but lack the dedicated safe space needed. An Education Track with appropriate road markings and signage would allow children of all ages to learn and practise their road skills. The site for the Rotary Eastwood Bike Education track is perfectly located at Talubah Park, adjacent to Lucknow school and kindergarten and a short distance from a childcare centre and the Eastwood Village Shopping Centre. East Gippsland Shire Council has recently built a playground here, with barbecue and toilet facilities, and the bike track will encourage greater use of this recreational area. The Eastwood development is designed with many paths linking the school and surrounding centres. School traffic is particularly heavy around drop off and pick up times, so incorporating ride to school initiatives would benefit not just those riding but also reduce the congestion at a busy time. So far, the Rotary Club of Bairnsdale Sunrise has raised $67,000 towards this project and they continue to apply for a wide range of grants to assist.
MALLACOOTA
FOREST FIRE MANAGEMENT Victoria will take advantage of favourable autumn weather and forest conditions to carry out planned burns aimed at reducing bushfire risk to communities and the environment. Planned burning remains one of the most effective tools available to firefighters, reducing fuels like grass, leaves, bark, shrubs and fallen branches means fires burn less intensely, spread more slowly and are safer to control. Autumn is typically the ideal window for this work, with more stable weather and predictable fire behaviour allowing crews to operate safely and effectively. Authorities say burns will go ahead as soon as suitable conditions are met, with all available crews and resources deployed. Across Gippsland, 97 planned burns covering around 81,000 hectares are ready for ignition this year. Priority areas include state forests, parks and reserves near Noojee, Erica, Heyfield and Mallacoota—locations identified as having the greatest impact on community safety. While planned burning is a key strategy, it is not the only approach. In areas where burning is not suitable, crews will undertake fuel reduction through methods such as mulching, mowing, slashing, spraying, and maintaining fuel breaks and road networks. The program involves collaboration across multiple agencies, including the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Parks Victoria and Melbourne Water, alongside emergency services such as the CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria and Emergency Management Victoria. While smoke from planned burns may be noticeable, it is generally less intense and shorter in duration than smoke from uncontrolled bushfires.
MARLO
CONSTRUCTION WORKS ARE expected to commence after the Easter break to deliver enhanced recreation amenities at this much-loved fishing and foreshore spot. Boat ramp access will be maintained throughout works with minimal disruptions expected and traffic management in place for everyone’s safety. The project will deliver improved barbecue and picnic facilities, upgraded paths and parking (including accessible access), and new supporting infrastructure – helping make the foreshore safer, more accessible and enjoyable for locals and visitors alike.
ORBOST
LOCAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE year 12 student, Amy Smith, has signed into a School-Based Apprenticeship/Traineeship (SBAT) with the support of Head Start. Smith will be undertaking her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, while working with Uniting Victoria Tasmania Limited, and continuing her school studies part-time. Head Start and Orbost Community College wish Smith all the best as she gets her career off to a “Head Start”.
THE LOCAL SES were kept busy last Friday after the storm event that hit the region. They attended building damage and multiple tree-down incidents.
THE FLAG AT the fire station was flying at half-mast last week, to honour and mourn the passing of a true stalwart of our neighbouring brigade, Newmerella, Des Ryan. He gave so much of himself to his brigade, his community, and the CFA family. People like Ryan are the backbone of our volunteer service — always there when it mattered, quietly supporting others and helping keep their community safe.
LOCAL POLICE ARE keen to remind riders of e-scooter rules, which cannot be ridden on footpaths or when the rider is using a mobile phone. Passengers aren’t allowed (including dogs), while riders can’t ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Riders aren’t allowed to ride a scooter capable of going more than 25 kilometres an hour or ride on a road that has speed limits greater than 60 kilometres per hour. Riders must be aged 16 years and over, and not exceed a maximum speed of 20 kilometres an hour, whilst wearing a helmet at all times, obeying the traffic rules and using lights and reflectors.
RAYMOND ISLAND
NAGLE CATHOLIC COLLEGE Eco Warriors were back working with Simon Ruff from DEECA last Friday, learning about the koalas on the island. There are approximately 300 koalas on the island, which are closely monitored by DEECA, with the observant students managing to spot 21.
SALE
AS PART OF Nature Play Week, the Wellington Shire Council is inviting children and their families to a relaxed Nature Play Morning at Nakunbalook in the Sale Botanic Garden on Tuesday, April 14 from 10am to 12pm. This guided outdoor session is all about exploring, creating and learning through play using natural materials – while sharing easy, low–cost ideas families can take home and try themselves. Perfect for children aged 0–8, along with parents, grandparents and carers.
DOGS ARE CUTE, but the local council would also like to remind owners that they poo. Owners are reminded when heading out for a walk, to take a poo bag. Because dog poo isn’t just unpleasant, it can take up to a year to break down, spread harmful bacteria, damage grass and plants in our parks and wash into drains and local waterways. Cleaning up after your dog helps keep the shared spaces clean, safe and enjoyable for everyone, and it will save you from a $204 fine.
CELEBRATIONS AT BAKERS Delight last week with Matt and Narelle Stephenson racking up 20 incredible years in business in the Gippsland Centre.
POLICE HAVE CHARGED a man following an incident where a firearm was allegedly discharged at a vehicle in Bolitho Court last Tuesday. The 24-year-old Sale man self-presented to a police station on March 25 about 2.30pm. Wellington Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged him with four counts of reckless conduct endangering life, three counts of making threats to kill, criminal damage, using a firearm when a firearm prohibition order applies, discharging a firearm at a vehicle and using a firearm in contravention of a firearm prohibition order. He was remanded to appear at the Sale Magistrates’ Court on March 28.The incident occurred at approximately 7.40am on Tuesday, March 24. Detectives are still investigating a second incident which occurred at the same address on March 22. No one was injured during the incidents.
THE HELPING HANDS Running Festival will return for a second year, hoping to grow on the success of year one. supporting the Free 3D Hands charity. Registrations are now open to fundraise and participate in the event at Lake Guthridge this October, which aims to create a safe space for people living with a limb difference or disability. Free 3D Hands is a not-for-profit organisation, based on Phillip Island, founded by engineer Mat Bowtell in 2019. The organisation designs and creates assistive limb devices using three-dimensional printing technology. It is a charity that emphasises accessibility by open-sourcing its designs and sending them free of charge around Australia and the world. This year’s running festival will be held on October 23 from 6am until 6pm on October 24.
SALE CATHOLIC COLLEGE was delighted to welcome back the class of 1971–76 for their 50-year reunion recently, bringing together St Patrick’s boys and former Sionettes to celebrate a truly special milestone. Guided by current principal, Mr Brett Van Berkel, the group toured the college, reminiscing on their school days, sharing cherished memories and swapping plenty of funny stories along the way. Many were quick to point out that the St Pat’s wing hasn’t changed much, bringing back plenty of nostalgia.
THE DEBATING SEASON is off to a strong start for the Gippsland Grammar senior campus, with nine teams travelling to Berwick for round one of the Debaters Association of Victoria (DAV) competition. With 95 teams competing across the region, it was a fantastic evening of ideas and lively discussion. Back on campus, the second round of House Debating also took place this week, organised by the debating captains. Lunchtime debates tackled the topics ‘That we regret the rise of streaming platforms’ (juniors) and ‘That we should be proud of Australia’s bogan culture’ (seniors).
YARRAM
LOCAL LIBRARY OFFICER, Margaret Payne recently celebrated 50 years with the Wellington Shire Council. Her kindness and genuine care have not gone unnoticed, with locals saying she is still the same friendly and welcoming face that she brought to work on day one.
