WE ALL love them but how much do we really know about our beloved Australian koala? A direct descendant from the original Victorian koala gene pool, the Strzelecki South Gippsland Koala is the most important koala population remaining in Victoria. All other local koala populations are the result of translocations from a handful of animals sent to French Island in the late 19th century. The Strzelecki animals may now hold the key for the survival of the species in Australia, as koala populations in Queensland and New South Wales continue to succumb to a variety of problems. The Loch-Nyora Landcare Group is planning a South Gippsland Koalas are Special Information Day at the Loch Public hall from 11am on Sunday, November 9. This koala’s genetic diversity makes them more resilient to threats like disease and climate change, highlighting the crucial importance of conserving their fragmented habitat. Similar to koalas in other parts of Australia, the South Gippsland population of Strzelecki koalas faces threats from habitat destruction for farming and urban development. The South Gippsland Landcare Network assists landholders  with activities like fencing, weed control, and koala habitat revegetation with a focus on improving habitat quality and creating corridors to connect fragmented areas to allow koalas to move more freely between forests. To find out more about the Special Koalas Landcare event, look for South Gippsland Koalas are Special on Facebook or phone Malcolm Brown on 0403 997 831.

Melbourne's Alta Collective will present a world-first choral arrangement of Sarah Kirkland Snider's acclaimed song cycle "Penelope" this month at the Wesley of Warragul, bringing new theatricality and emotional depth to the modern reimagining of Homer's epic. Stepping into myth and modernity, "Penelope" explores war, memory and the unravelling of love. A soldier returns after 20 years away in an unnamed war. But neither he or his wife are who they once were. Through Ellen McLaughlin's evocative libretto and Snider's haunting score, fragments of "The Odyssey" collide with folk, indie-rock and classical sound worlds to reveal a story that is both ancient and startlingly relevant. In a new choral arrangement by Melbourne composer and conductor Juliana Kay, the work expands into layers of harmony and movement. The bold voices of Alta Collective join forces with a string ensemble, percussion, electronics and Melbourne Youth Chorale. Juliana said the addition of choir unlocked the work's full expressive power. "From the first listen, I was captivated by the sense of yearning throughout "Penelope", its contemporary sound blended with something otherworldly I couldn't quite place," she said. "As a choral conductor and composer, the only thing I thought was missing was a choir. Choirs bring a palette of texture and movement that can heighten the storytelling in extraordinary ways". For Renee Heron, artistic director of Alta Collective, the piece resonated on a deeper level. ""Penelope" reframes the Odyssey through the eyes of a woman, giving voice to a perspective too often left in the margins of classical storytelling," she said. "For Alta - a collective deeply invested in women's voices in contemporary music - bringing this cycle into a choral setting for treble voices feels like a natural and powerful extension of its vision." Guided by Juliana's arrangement, Renee's vocal direction and Marjorie Butcher's movement design, the performance will lead audiences through a fractured psyche, asking the ancient question: after war, can we ever truly come home? Alta Collective will present "Penelope" at the Wesley of Warragul on Saturday, November 8 at 7:30pm. Tickets can be purchased online at https://events.humanitix.com/alta-collective

WELSHPOOL’S small army of trick-or-treaters hit the pavement after enjoying sausages in bread at the town’s new barbecue shelter. They followed maps outlining which houses to visit in their quest for Halloween treats. It was then off to the Welshpool Hotel for a spooky disco. The Welshpool and District Advisory Group hosted the barbecue, with an array of Halloween ideas on show, ranging from zombies to dinosaurs. It was the first major gathering for the new shelter, South Gippsland Shire Council responsible for the structure, with grant funding from the Toora and Foster Community Bank paying for the barbecues installed there.

BASKETBALL BY BLAKE METCALF-HOLT   TRARALGON’S Callan Brooks is ready to see his Australian Goannas take the next step. Brooks ventures across to Tokyo, Japan next month for the 2025 Summer Deaflympics, where the men’s national basketball team hit the court against the very best competition. The Deaflympics is a multi-sports event sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee for deaf athletes to compete at the international level. This will be Brooks’ second time at the Deaflympics, travelling to Samsun, Turkey in 2017, and given Australia didn’t enter the 2022 Deaflympics, the 33-year-old is even more eager to step onto the court and see greater results. “Ideally if you can medal, that’s the greatest achievement … I’d say anywhere (from) fifth to better would be massive progress for deaf Australian basketball,” Brooks told the Express. Brooks said international competitions are held every two years, and since making the Goannas squad in 2015, he’s played in around five tournaments for the green and gold. Over the last 10 years, Brooks has steadily been improving his game, which has been noticed and rewarded, seeing the shooting guard inserted into the starting line-up for the upcoming Deaflympics. Brooks began playing the sport when he was in prep, and although being born profoundly deaf, hasn’t ever stopped on his basketball journey and skyrocketed even further once he discovered Deaf Basketball Australia. Progress: Traralgon basketballer Callan Brooks is preparing for his second Deaflympics next month. Photograph supplied “I was just this kid who found Deaf Basketball Australia and I’ve been in the team since,” he said. “I could never catch on with representative basketball, I didn’t understand it, none of my family plays, so I had no knowledge. “It was always domestic basketball and I didn’t know kind of what else I could do or what else was out there. “When I was just over 20, I found online that there’s a deaf basketball team, and so I jumped in.” Brooks requires a Cochlear device – a surgically implanted hearing aid – after he lost all of his hearing at the age of 18. Utilising typical hearing aids before that, when Brooks would play in his younger days, he would have close to no sound when out on the court. “With basketball, I just have to use my visual cues a lot more … there’s a couple of things I miss, like if a ref whistles and I don’t see or catch it, I just keep playing,” he said. “When someone’s yelling I can’t hear it, but I’d make decisions based on what I see.” Locally, Brooks became the first deaf player to suit up in a Country Basketball League (CBL) game when he played for the Traralgon T-Birds in 2022, while he’s also been a training player for Gippsland United in Big V. Overall, Brooks is looking forward to the chance to once again display his skills on the world stage. “I feel like I’m at a high, like I’m going on a high. This is my best opportunity because the growth I’ve had over the last few years,” he said. “The intention (is) the best competition and tournament I’ve had.” The 2025 Summer Deaflympics takes place from November 15 to 26, featuring 216 events for 18 different sports. Given the tournament is smaller in scale and less well-known as opposed to other sporting events like the Olympics, Brooks requires self-funding to get across to Tokyo. You can support his journey at: https://www.mycause.com.au/page/370582/callans-deaf-basketball-deaflympic-participation

New research shows an increase in severe storm surges is lessening the value of Australian houses.

CRICKET CLV By LIAM DURKIN   THE last lot of one dayers for 2025 were played at the weekend in Cricket Latrobe Valley. The league will now move into red ball cricket on the run to Christmas. The Cox Plate left a few teams decimated, as players felt a sudden twinge in their punting muscles. Wedding season is also upon a few clubs, meaning it’s time to hit the phones to field XIs. Premier B side Thorpdale perhaps pulled off the most country of all selections at the weekend, with one player working in a paddock near the town’s oval, and only leaving the tractor when it was their turn to bat.   BRAE Kelly played a breakthrough innings of 81 off just 43 balls to help steer Churchill to 8/234 against Centrals. The opener whacked six sixes and just as many fours to strike at 188.37. Runs continued to flow at Andrews Park West, with Matt Harvey reigning himself in, making an unbeaten 45 off 88 balls. Ben Kearns played an attacking hand of 31 off 35, and John Keighran contributed 28 off 42. Young gun Nethul Gamage had some success for the Lions, snaring 2/16. Tye Hourigan played an equally impressive knock to Brae’s for Centrals, yet the skipper was bereft of any support. Hourigan made 84 off 97 rocks, but only one other player reached double figures, as the visitors were rocked for 143. Ryan Ayres did the damage for the Cobras, taking 5/39, working with off spinner Ross Whelpdale (5/39).   GLENGARRY returned to form, thanks mainly to a sublime century from Al Jenkin. Batting at four, the spot usually occupied by injured skipper Nat Freitag, the fellow left hander did the position justice, making a virtual run-a-ball 118. Jenkin hit three bombs during his stay, partnering with Frank Marks in a 119-run stand for the sixth wicket. Marks made 51 for good measure, helping the Magpies to 8/215 off their 50 overs at Fred King Oval. Wickets were shared in the Morwell camp. Brendan Brincat was effective as ever, taking 3/17 off 10 overs. The Tiger response looked promising at 2/119, yet the dismissal of Mark Cukier for 48 led to a steady loss of wickets. Tim Ford did his best with 77, yet every batsmen from five to 11 registered single figures. Morwell was not totally disgraced, making 177, yet Jenkin could do no wrong in the field either, taking the crucial wickets of Cukier and then Blake Mills to end with 2/24 from 10 overs.   MOE was methodical as ever chasing 216 against Toongabbie. Taking to Roger Reis Oval, the Rams found output from club legend Tom Shippen, who knocked them around for 50 at number seven, along with Gayashan Munasingge who scored 71. Callum Grant made inroads with his finger spin, taking 3/24 off nine overs, including the prized scalp of Amal Athulathmudali, and completing the run out of Toongabbie captain Tim Dunn. The Moe middle order then all contributed runs, headed by captain Matt Hibbs scoring a run-a-ball 59. The dependable duo of Benn Zomer (45) and Andrew Philip (34) also pitched in. A rare sight was seen when Philip was bowled – a dismissal that wouldn’t have featured too often in his career (genuinely bowled at least, discounting chop ons or when hitting out).   EX STUDENTS survived a bit of a scare against Imperials. The team from Catterick Crescent did what not many sides have done in recent years – bowling the Sharks out. A depleted Ex Students (who had a bucks do) batted through most of the 50 allotted overs at Terry Hunter Oval, and posted 190. Double figure scores from Matt Dyke (33), Rick Battista (28), Fletcher Graham (26) and Jack Robertson (25) saw the home side get close to 200. Sensing the chance of an upset, Imperials started brightly, but failed to see many partnerships materialise in a final score of 167. Leighton Shuttleworth batted a long time for his 40, while Ryan Morley made 25 alongside him. In a game decided by 27 runs, five double figures scores from Imperials batsmen told the story.   GORMANDALE pulled off arguably its best win in recent history, defeating a highly touted Raiders in A Grade. The Tigers batted first at Yinanr Turf, and defended a seemingly below-par 152. Nimesh Soyza did most of the scoring, making 48, before an extraordinary Raiders collapse saw the home side fold for just 88. Things started so well for Gormandale with the ball, Campbell Peavey had a wicket first ball of the innings. He took the first two, and was quickly joined by Patrick Brooks, who knocked over Raiders captain Liam Maynard for 26. It was then Nick Scammell’s turn, as he ran through the middle order, picking up Raiders linchpin Keenan Hughes cheaply. Cooper White then finished Raiders off, ending with figures of 3/14. The win was memorable for Gormandale, and conversely, could send early warning lights off at Yinnar. Raiders, after being relegated, have now lost their last two games.   TRARALGON WEST won its second game on the bounce. The Eagles defeated Mirboo North in a competitive game at Jack Canavan. Defending 158, the home side bowled the Tigers out for 131. Josh Monacella (33) and Hayden Kimpton (33 off 28) gave Traralgon West a chance, up against Darien Matthews, who claimed 4/23 with his left arm swingers. Mirboo North was in a reasonable position at 1/43, but were then 5/80 following a middle order collapse. Matthews had to make do with 31 not out at number seven, while Ben Heath was forced to hold up an end and make 30 off 70 balls. Ben Fleming bowled terrifically for the Eagles, taking 3/20, as did Alfie Peck, who returned silly one day figures of 2/9 off 10 overs.   LUKE Payton again scored heavily for Willow Grove, this time with 72 off 94 balls with four maximums. He made up most of the 194 total against Rovers at Willow Grove Recreation Reserve, although it wasn’t enough as the visitors won by four wickets. Nathan Wheildon played an uncharacteristic patient hand of 32 off 106 balls for the Wolves, in the face of some economical bowling from Rovers veteran Simon Duff (1/24 off 10). Rovers took until the 45th over to win, but got there thanks to James Hayter (86 off 94) smoking six sixes. Nikhil Reddy also kept the runs coming, with 36 off 47.   CATS lost eight wickets chasing the bonus point against Latrobe. The team from Traralgon South got what they wanted, although not without a few nervous moments. Electing to bowl at home, CATS rolled the Sharks for 81. Josh Moore cleaned up with 4/25, while Sam Gissari took scarcely believable figures of 4/8. CATS did as most club cricket teams do when chasing low totals, making life extremely hard for themselves. From 2/40, the score was suddenly 7/67, before the winning runs were negotiated. Paul McGill ensured a positive start making 27.

From parking to road maintenance, locals had their say on what problems need more attention.

Plenty is happening around Bass Coast and South Gippsland today, and why not kick off the long weekend with some spooky fun.  The fantastic individual behind Halloween Trick or Treating Wonthaggi and Surrounding Areas on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Wonniinvytrickortreating/), will be posting a final house list at 3pm for those keen to hit the pavement this evening with homes who are welcoming trick or treaters.  Along Graham Street, two doors up from McDonald's, Kathy Everett and her ghostly gang (though they are all friendly!) have decked out a delight with 1245 lolly bags waiting for trick and treaters this evening. A jump in last year's 900 bags, which went flying out the door.  And there's plenty happening everywhere, so jump into your favourite costume, grab a cauldron and your broomstick and head out for some ghoulish fun. Whats on The Great Witch Hunt Finishes October 31 Bass Coast Welshpool and District Horticultural Society 65th Spring Show Friday, October 31, from 1.30pm – 5pm Welshpool Memorial Hall  Family Halloween Night, 4.30pm – 6.30pm State Coal Mine Halloween Spooktacular, 4pm Manna Gum Community House Trick or Treat, 4pm Welshpool Park Halloween Disco, 5pm – 8pm  Korumburra Showgrounds The Curse of Dumbalk, 6.30pm The Dumbalk Hotel Flesh Creep Halloween Disco, 6.30pm – 8.30pm Fishy Hall

SPRING will be celebrated at Inverloch next weekend with Inverloch Open Gardens. A wide variety of gardens will be open to the public including Michelle Millane’s native style garden which is only two years old. “It was just lawn when we moved in,” said Michelle. The Millane’s garden may have the odd exotic planted among the natives, but Michelle says the garden is low maintenance and needs very little water over summer. “It’s bird attracting,” said Michelle. Regular visitors include red wattle birds, eastern spinebills and fairy wrens. Inverloch Open Gardens is about giving home gardeners the opportunity to view other people’s gardens and look at what changes they could make to their own gardens. The Inverloch Uniting Church have co-ordinated Inverloch Open Gardens for many years and welcomes new homes and gardens every year. “We welcome many people year after year.” “No fishing as you pass the pond on your way around one of the gardens.” Enjoy this wonderful time of the year to observe spring growth with its bountiful colour by visiting Inverloch Open Gardens on Saturday November 8 from 10am to 4pm. Pick-up a map of the gardens at the Inverloch Uniting Church at 5 Williams Street, Inverloch or drop into one of the gardens when you see the balloons at the gate. The Inverloch Garden Group always welcomes new members.

SUNDAY, October 19, marked another proud chapter in South Gippsland Volleyball Club’s journey, as the team brought home sensational silver in the Gippsland Regional Volleyball League grand final. After six months of traversing the Strzeleckis to the Latrobe Valley, the season reached a rewarding conclusion – one that showcased the club’s depth, unity, and enduring passion for the game. The club is immensely proud of its junior players, many of whom made their debut appearance in this year’s grand final and shone brightly under pressure.  Following an unfortunate injury that saw captain Tamara Miller sidelined, she and Jessica Sanders seamlessly swapped roles. Tamara took on the strategic role of coach, while the ever-experienced and composed Jessica stepped up as captain – guiding her team with focus and determination all the way to the grand final. “We are so proud of our juniors who continue to impress us both on and off the court,” Jessica said.  “A very big thank you to our senior players who put in the training, effort and travel throughout the season to get us to where we are today!” Semi-final knock-out two:  South Gippsland edged out Bairnsdale in a thrilling five-setter, 3–2 (24-26, 25-19, 25-23, 22-25, 16-14). The match could have gone either way – two well-matched rivals trading blows point for point.  South Gippsland’s composure in the final set sealed its spot in the grand final. Grand final: Facing a strong and formidable Latrobe Valley 1, South Gippsland fell 3–0 (25-13, 26-24, 25-12) in a hard-fought contest. The second set was heartbreakingly close, with only a few points separating victory from defeat. The standard of play was exceptional – long rallies, powerful spikes, expertly timed blocks, and an iron-clad back-court defence that reflected the grit and unity the club has built its reputation on. Each player walked away with a well-deserved mini-trophy – a keepsake and reminder of their strength, teamwork, and determination both on and off the court. As the curtain falls on the 2025 Gippsland Regional Volleyball League season, the club looks ahead with optimism and pride. Anyone interested in joining or learning more about the 2026 season is warmly invited to contact club secretary Jessica Sanders at [email protected].

THE ABS tells us that total household spending is up by five per cent across Australia, for the 12 months through to the end of August 2025. But spending on discretionary items, that is the things we can do without, is down. Alcohol and tobacco has taken a particular hit, but spending on furniture and household equipment and recreation and culture is also down. Anecdotally at least, people aren’t spending at the moment, according to Gary McCaughan of Stony Creek. A regular at local markets, Gary makes decorative items from horseshoes and various other interesting pieces of scrap metal, this time last year doing a good trade in horseshoe Christmas trees. This time last year, he’d sold 33 such items, but in a sign of the economic times, he reckons, he’s only sold one Christmas tree this year. Could be that everyone who wants a horseshoe Christmas tree already has one. Gary McCaughan turned out at a sodden Inverloch Community Farmers Market last Sunday, despite the rain, but he’s got a busy round of engagements worked out for the Melbourne Cup Long Weekend. “I’ll be at Koonwarra on Saturday (November 1), the return of the Prom Market at Foster on Sunday (November 2) and Tarwin Lower on Monday (November 3),” said Gary. The markets should provide a more accurate indicator of what retailers (and market stallholders) can expect in the run-up to Christmas. And after all, what’s Christmas without a (horseshoe style) Christmas tree?

BASS Coast Shire Council has taken possession of the Wonthaggi Men’s Shed after the Community Garden Group was locked out earlier this week. The Wonthaggi Men’s Shed explained in an advertisement that they had made an executive decision to shut down the garden group operating within the grounds of the Men’s Shed precinct. Bass Coast Shire Council took possession of the Wonthaggi Men’s Shed late Thursday afternoon and according to CEO Greg Box council remains hopeful that the members of the Men’s Shed will participate in mediation and a resolution will be reached. Cr Mat Morgan who has been working with council staff to resolve the dispute said new agreements need to be drawn up before the site can be re-opened. “This has been a very disappointing couple of weeks for a lot of people,” Cr Morgan said. Council horticultural staff have agreed to keep the community garden watered. Bass Coast Shire Council which leases the land to the Wonthaggi Men’s Shed said it will continue to work closely with everyone involved to find a positive way forward.

Passengers on the Gippsland line will be able to enjoy free travel throughout November as a "thank you" for their patience during the Gippsland Line Upgrade works. Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams were at Traralgon railway station last Tuesday to announcing free public transport for passengers starting their journey at any station on the Gippsland Line between Nar Nar Goon and Bairnsdale. "Free travel on the Gippsland line in November is our way of saying thank you for your patience while we delivered this major upgrade," Ms Allan said. "We've significantly upgraded the Gippsland line – improving two stations, delivering smoother journeys and more services. And now passengers can travel for free this November," Ms Williams said. Passengers travelling from stations between Nar Nar Goon and Traralgon will be able to collect a Gippsland free travel voucher from station staff or a conductor onboard the train, instead of tapping on with their myki. Passengers boarding between Rosedale and Bairnsdale can collect a free V/Line ticket from station staff when boarding or book over the phone. The voucher will give passengers free travel all day across Victoria's public transport network, including onward journeys on trains, trams, buses and V/Line coaches. Connecting services also are included as part of the Gippsland free travel offer, meaning passengers starting or finishing their trip on a coach or local bus also will travel for free across the network. Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh said the tree travel offer would benefit "local families, students and workers who rely on the Gippsland Line every day." "Free travel will make a real difference to household budgets and give even more people a reason to jump on board," he said. The Gippsland Line Upgrade delivered major improvements to the Traralgon and Bairnsdale lines, including new train control systems, rebuilt and expanded platforms at Morwell and Traralgon and upgraded stations at Bunyip and Longwarry. The upgrade enabled a more frequent timetable across Gippsland, with more than 80 extra weekly services now available, including 14 on Saturdays and 18 on Sundays, and more than 1100 extra weekly bus services across 13 routes connecting to stations. Every tram, train and bus across Victoria also will be free every weekend from early December until February 1 next year, in celebration of the Metro Tunnel opening. From January 1 next year, public transport will be free for every child under 18, saving families up to $755 a year per child. For more information on free travel for Gippsland residents in November, visit www.transport.vic.gov.au/free-travel-gippsland

FOOTBALL By LIAM DURKIN   GIPPSLAND’S greatest modern-day footballer has found himself tangled up in a messy legal dispute. Collingwood games record holder and Sale’s own Scott Pendlebury is seeking nearly $3 million he claims prominent Melbourne businessman Jason Sourasis misappropriated from the Magpies champion. The pair have been close friends for more than a decade, with Pendlebury hiring Sourasis as his financial adviser. However, the relationship soured last February according to the ABC, after Pendlebury noticed $2,148,900 was missing from his investment account. The ABC also reported Sourasis had access to Pendlebury’s bank account, which was meant to be used for paying tax and transferring money to an offset account. Pendlebury has hired one of Australia’s most high-profile commercial lawyers to try and clean up the mess. Sourasis is yet to file a defence, but denies owing the Collingwood midfielder anything. “The allegations are vehemently denied and, as a legal process has been started, we can’t make any further comments at this stage,” he told the ABC. The Herald Sun also rang Pendlebury to get his side of the story, although the phone call lasted all of 10 seconds. “I can’t comment about that,” he said before quickly hanging up. Sourasis has a history of dodgy business deals, dabbling into ventures such as restaurants, night clubs, property development and as executive chairman of the embattled A-League club Western United. He convinced aspiring Liberal leader Matthew Guy to pledge $100 million for a stadium in West Melbourne if the Coalition won the 2022 state election. Guy was a feature on the campaign trail in the Latrobe Valley during the election, as the Liberals/Nationals narrowly won the seat of Morwell. This is not the first legal battle for Sourasis, who has been described as someone who uses company money as his personal ATM. On another occasion, $90,000 of company money magically found its way into his mother’s account. Former North Melbourne defender Michael Firrito was done over by Sourasis, after receiving a sports car as part payment of a $100,000 loan. Firrito later found out Sourasis had transferred $50,000 of his money into a restaurant venture. Sourasis has also run afoul of the ATO, who are chasing $6.7 million in unpaid taxes since 2021. While Sourasis himself is not a player agent, he is majority owner at Hemisphere Management Group. The group has a number of Gippsland AFL players past and present plastered over their website, including Pendlebury. Others are Fremantle star Caleb Serong (from Longwarry), 2021 Coleman Medallist Harry McKay (Warragul), Adelaide’s Sam Berry (Maffra), St Kilda’s Sam Flanders (Fish Creek) and Essendon’s Xavier Duursma (Foster). Among former AFL players still appearing on the website are new Sale Football-Netball Club senior coach Jack Leslie (Gold Coast) and Moe’s Leo Connolly (St Kilda). The company also boasts managing modern superstar Jeremy Cameron and Brisbane Lions great Simon Black. Pendlebury has kept an incredibly clean record during his 20-year professional career (a feat in itself given the modern exposure of AFL players), with this his first major controversy of sorts.

VicGrid has released the corridor and draft preferred route for the transmission to connect offshore wind energy from Gippsland to...

THE Welshpool and District Horticultural Society’s 65th Spring Show returns to the Welshpool Hall this week, with visitors invited to enjoy the colourful spectacle and the ever-popular huge plant stall on Friday afternoon and all day Saturday. This year’s Halloween theme is set to bring out the kooky, the spooky and the spectacularly creative – so be prepared for all things mystical, magical, and maybe even a little monstrous! The Public Choice section is always popular with exhibitors and visitors, while the front foyer display by local schoolchildren adds a burst of youthful creativity. A photography exhibition is always a welcome sight, with plenty of categories to keep experts and first-timers busy in the final build-up. Expect to find 1000s of plants available for sale from the society’s nursery behind the hall, but be quick, as ever-popular species will disappear under the wave of the magic wands. There are the unusual must-haves, alongside groundcovers, perennials, trees, and bulbs, plus wonderous woodwork creations for the garden. With the Halloween twist, organisers are expecting some truly imaginative entries – from pumpkin-inspired floral art to eerie arrangements that would make even a witch proud. Visitors can vote with a gold coin donation for their favourite entry in the Public Choice section, which raises funds for an organisation. Club member Rob Gyles, who is collating the club’s history, is opening the show at 2pm on Friday. The club looks forward to lots of ‘treats’ and not too many ‘tricks’ and seeing the regular show visitors and meeting first-time visitors.

HALLOWEEN is set to come alive – and maybe even rise from the grave – at the State Coal Mine in Wonthaggi, where the town’s biggest Halloween display is promising thrills, chills and plenty of family fun. These past weekends' visitors have stepped inside the restored railway carriage to discover a spooky world of mystery and adventure, where the grim reaper, a vampire and a witch stand side by side among eerie decorations. The fright-filled festivities will culminate on Friday, October 31, with a Family Halloween Night from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, featuring trick-or-treating, face painting, popcorn, a sausage sizzle, and of course, the spooky train carriage, open between 5pm and 7pm for brave visitors. Children, families and friends are all encouraged to dress up in their scariest costumes and join in the Halloween spirit at one of Wonthaggi’s most unique venues. For more information and for updates, head to The Friends of the State Coal Mine on Facebook.

The Hallora Marathon is celebrating a decade of fundraising as organisers prepare for their 10th edition this December. The charity event has been raising money for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre since its inception, having donated more than $100,000 to the centre in that time. Organisers are now expecting the next edition, set for Sunday, December 14, to be the biggest yet. It all began when local Daniel Pratt decided he wanted to do something to help the centre after seeing its work first-hand through the cancer battles of several people close to him. He settled on a run, and from there the event has exploded beyond his or his wife Laura's wildest dreams. Laura said 2025 was already on track to be the most popular edition of the marathon to date, having already received more entries than they had to this point last year. "(We're) definitely well underway with the fundraising, we've already got 460 participants signed up," she said. "Let's try and beat the $55,000 from 2024...the more participants, the more money for Peter Mac." Event distances on offer include a kid's dash across Western Park as well as 5km, 8km and 16km along with the longer 24km and 42km runs. Every event will finish at Western Park. All shorter distance events will begin at Western Park while the 24km and 42km will both take off from Hallora Recreation Reserve. "We've got a great vibe happening at Western Park again. We're gonna have some food vendors down, the finish line will be on the oval again," Laura said. In a significant change to the scheduling, the cycling will take place the day before on Saturday, December 13 in tandem with the Wild Dog Triathlon Club. Daniel also will be hitting the track for the first time in years for the full marathon as he's keen to mark the anniversary in a big way. "He's going to make it happen again this year, getting out on the course with everyone which is hopefully going to be a really big buzz," Laura said. "Every year it's just growing and to see Dan's face every year, the emotions are awesome. It just blows us away, the amount of connections locally and nationally. It is a real good vibe and the feedback's great and we just want to make it happen year after year and keep continuing on." Laura said volunteers were still needed for the day and urged anyone interested to get involved. "Our big thing at the moment is getting volunteers. Because an event like us, we can't run without it, they're the backbone of our event. We're calling out to anyone who can help us, clubs, individuals, whoever." For more information on the Hallora Marathon, including how to register, head to www.halloramarathon.org.au Prices for registration will increase as of November 1.

Melina Bath is supporting the Tackling Leukaemia Foundation encouraging locals to join the stem cell donor registry

Healthcare service not only takes clinical staff but also the dedicated, hard-working, skilled and qualified members of the Support Services team.

The aim of Occupational Therapy (OT) is to support and enable you to participate...

Newhaven College's Class of 2025 bid farewell to their school life last week, with plenty of festive activities. The four-day celebration commenced with a playful twist as students dressed up as "What I want to be when I grow up" as remembered from their childhood, and then on Friday, they 'blinged' their uniforms. The days that followed were filled with Celebration Day dress-ups and competitive House commando games at the Year 9 Environmental Centre, providing an opportunity for the students to let off some steam before they embarked on the more official formalities. Valedictory Day commenced with a family breakfast in the amphitheatre, followed by House group meetings. The formal final assembly commenced with all the Year 12s accompanied by haunting bagpipes played by their fellow student, Mackenzie Cameron. The assembly included awards presentations to high achievers. A Valedictory dinner was held at Silverwater Resort, where the students had the chance to spend their final moments together, surrounded by their dedicated teachers and proud parents. Addressing the gathered Class of 2025 at the final all-school assembly, Principal Tony Corr congratulated each student.  "We are proud of the year level we are sending off today - who you are and what you have achieved," he said. "You are bright, fun, vibrant, enthusiastic, respectful and committed. In many ways, you embody all that is good about our school. You are what we hope our graduates will be - and there is great pride in that. "It is symbolic that your parents are here today to accompany you on your last day of school," Mr Corr continued. "This is a particularly significant day for those parents whose youngest or only child is finishing school." A remarkable 52 families are leaving the College this year, having had numerous students go through the school. Notably, the Taylor family of six children, is ending their time at the College this year, with Max. "It has been our honour to share your journey, to walk with you, support you, and encourage you," Mr Corr told the students. "Thank you for all you have taught us. Your year group is special and has left a lasting legacy. Let your time here at Newhaven serve as a compass to guide you on your next adventure." During the final assembly, awards were given to students in each Year 12 subject who had achieved the highest grades and made significant contributions to the development of their subjects for the benefit of all students. Mr Corr presented the prestigious Principal's Prize to Marley Brown, saying he was an "excellent representative of the College values and consistently demonstrated determination and perseverance across his time at Newhaven College". The prestigious Papworth Prize was awarded to Lara Smyth who was also the recipient of both the ADF Future Innovators Award, numerous Sports Awards and academic awards for four subjects. "Lara is a diligent, hard-working and enthusiastic member of the Newhaven College community and has consistently demonstrated excellence across her time at Newhaven College in the academic and sporting areas." The Australian Defence Force (ADF) also recognised Gabriel Di Falco with the Long Tan Leadership Award. Gabriel was a College Captain and instrumental in the Youth Parliament team this year. Additionally, awards were bestowed upon those who exemplified the school's House values, excelled in sports, and who earned the prestigious Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. As Newhaven College's Year 12 students embark on their future endeavours, they do so with fond memories, cherished experiences and a bright outlook on the road ahead. Awards Principal's Prize 2025: Marley Brown Papworth Prize 2025: Lara Smyth ADF Long Tan Leadership Award: Gabriel Di Falco ADF Future Innovators Award: Lara Smyth Year 12 Academic Endeavor Award: Jazz Mau and Isaac Savona CUC Achievement Award: Mackenzie Slidders Academic Awards: Two Subject Awards: Sienna Bell and Abby Papas Three Subject Awards: Cecily de Gooyer Four Subject Awards: Lara Smyth Sport Awards: SEISA Sport Awards: Lucas Allen and Lara Smyth Major Sport Awards: Olivia Cumming and James Harman Values Awards: Bass House: Charlotte Derham & Zoe Scott Clarke House: Nissa Campbell Walker and Jasper Cashman McHaffie House: Jasmine Crooks and Joey Thompson Sambell House: Grace Morris and Matilda Russell

Phillip Islanders have the chance to hear from skin cancer survivors and experts in a free screening of the award-winning documentary Conquering Skin Cancer at Berninneit on November 20. This powerful film features compelling interviews with skin cancer survivors, medical experts and Aussie celebrities. They highlight the importance of prevention, regular self-checks, early detection, and access to treatment. Viewers can also learn about the latest innovative research aimed at beating skin cancer. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A session with local health professionals and skin cancer experts. The film is being presented in partnership with Gippsland Regional Integrated Cancer Service and Gippsland Region Public Health Unit. The screening is free, but seats are limited. Tickets will also be available on the day. The film screens in Cowes at Berninneit on November 20 at 5.30pm. Scan barcode to book. It is also showing at the Union Theatre in Wonthaggi on November 19 at 4pm, and Leongatha’s Stadium 4 Cinema on October 22 at 1.30pm.

In celebration of National Water Week (October 20-26), Westernport Water is proud to announce the winners of this year's poster competition, which attracted an incredible 315 posters from six primary schools and one kindergarten. The annual competition encourages students to explore the National Water Week theme through art and creativity. This year's theme, "Water Heroes: Save Every Drop", inspired students to see themselves as everyday heroes - people who make small, positive choices that add up to big impacts. Whether it's turning off the tap, having shorter showers, or spreading awareness, every action helps protect our precious water resources. "Congratulations to all our young Water Heroes who took part in this year's competition," Westernport Water's General Manager Corporate and Community, Gareth Kennedy said. "It's inspiring to see how our local students are thinking deeply about the importance of saving water and protecting the environment. "This year's theme, 'Water Heroes: Save Every Drop,' reminds us that everyone can make a difference. Whether you're at home, at school or outdoors, every little drop counts. "Well done to all the talented students who entered, and to Bass Valley Primary School winning this year's $1000 school participation prize to support a sustainability project. We can't wait to see how they put it to good use." Each year, Westernport Water staff look forward to the tough job of selecting the top three posters in each age category. Judges consider both creativity and how well the artwork captures the National Water Week theme. Students from across the region embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and passion, producing colourful and thoughtful posters that highlight how everyone can play a role in conserving water. The top three winners from each age group were recognised at their school assemblies over the past two weeks, and presented with Westernport Water prize packs, and gift vouchers from Turn the Page bookshop in Cowes. Every entrant also received a participation certificate to celebrate their effort. The winning posters from each age category were also entered into the Victorian poster competition, competing against other regional winners for top honours in the State. Venus from Newhaven College took home third place in the Statewide Grade 3-4 category. For more information about National Water Week or the poster competition, please visit Westernport Water's website. 2025 NWW Poster Competition - Top three posters in each category 4-Year-Old Kinder - Individual: Jarvis W - San Remo Preschool Prep: 1st Place: Nora H - Cowes Primary 2nd place: Esther G - Newhaven College Equal 3rd place: Quinn K and Ziggy J - Newhaven Primary  Grade 1-2: 1st place: Arabella W - Newhaven College 2nd place: Bronte H - San Remo Primary School Equal 3rd place: Eden P - Newhaven Primary School and Landon D - San Remo Primary School Grade 3-4: 1st Place: Venus M - Newhaven College 2nd place: Lillith B - Cowes Primary School Equal 3rd place: Jude T and Airlie L - Newhaven College  Grade 5-6: 1st Place: Lucille - San Remo Primary School Equal 2nd place: Allira H - San Remo Primary School and Jamie Y - Cowes Primary School Equal 3rd place: Lucy W - San Remo Primary School and Samantha E - Cowes Primary School

Rick Lacey from Purple Hen won the Most Successful Exhibitor at the Gippsland Wine show, with the winery also taking out the award for Best Shiraz and Best Aromatic White. Dirty Three Pinot Noir won the Best Wine of Show. In a record medal count, the 2025 show attracted 114 high-calibre entries with a strong focus on the region's famed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay classes. Rob Lightfoot, Wine Gippsland President, said there was a bumper haul of 55 medals, with an unprecedented seven gold trophies in the varietal classes as testament to the exceptional quality of wines in the region.  The record haul of 18 gold medals overall, 18 silver and 19 bronze, was presented by sponsors at the annual celebration held for 130 guests at Narkoojee Winery, Glengarry North. The judges described the pinot noir, chardonnay and shiraz classes as particularly exciting. The prestigious Westpac Best Wine of Show went to Inverloch-based Marcus Satchell and Lisa Sartori's Dirty Three Wines for the Dirty Three 2024 "Magic Dirt" Pinot Noir. This wine earlier won the coveted Best Pinot Noir Top Gold and trophy in a competitive category that produced a record five Gold medals, five Silver and four Bronze from 24 entries. The seven gold varietal class trophies included: * Bass River Winery, Glen Forbes, won the Best Sparkling Gold and Trophy for the Bass River 1835 Sparkling Brut 2021. * Purple Hen Wines, Phillip Island, won Best Shiraz and the Top Gold Trophy with their 2024 The Rooster Shiraz. * Purple Hen also won Best Aromatic White Trophy with the Purple Hen 2025 Off Dry Riesling.  * Purple Hen won a further Gold with the Purple Hen 2024 Pinot Noir. They won Best Cabernet Sauvignon Varieties and Blends, a tally which earned them the Most Successful Exhibitor. Dirty Three Wines also won Gold medals for the Dirty Three 2024 "All The Dirts" Chardonnay,  and the Dirty Three 2024 "All The Dirts" Pinot Noir. Showcasing three vintages of the same wine, Dirty Three Wines was awarded the Best Red Wine of Provenance, and also the Best White Wine of Provenance. The wine producers involved in the awards then turned out in force for the inaugural Eat Drink Play Gippsland Festival at Leongatha, one day later for an incredibly popular event. For full list of winners and photographs from the awards, see www.winegippsland.com