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Drinking in the peace on the banks of East Gippsland’s Mitchell River, you’d have no idea what once was “Australia’s worst school” is mere minutes away
That’s because six years after Bairnsdale Secondary College’s low point was aired on national television
the school is now seen as an entirely different place
almost doubling the number of year 12 students accepted into university and apprenticeships since
it’s fair to say that this community and this school
it had a really sort of low public point because it was described on national television as “Australia’s worst school”
can you tell us what led to this naming and by what metric was this deemed “Australia’s worst school”
Precel: That was quite a low point for the school
There were a few things that led to that A Current Affair piece [that] went to air ..
there were quite a few teachers who had been assaulted
some who had said that they unfortunately had post-traumatic stress disorder from some of the things that happened at the school while they were teaching
there was a teacher who said that they were shoulder-charged and pushed and ended up with a disability because of that
And I think there’s probably more that we don’t know about
but they obviously had huge impacts on teachers who felt unsafe
The school chaplain said that a number of teachers said they were suicidal from some of the interactions that they had at the school
It was no secret that the school wasn’t performing very well in their ATAR or NAPLAN results
Selinger-Morris: And then there’s a dramatic turn
in the life of this school and I guess the community because the school turned a corner
and it has become a radically different place
Obviously at the school they had an interim principal in there for a year after that
and she became the principal until only recently when [former Education Department senior education improvement leader] Tony Roberts took over
But Trudie really saw that there was a need for some significant change ..
So one of the things can happen is that when there are big issues
cultural issues … what can happen is schools close shop
They don’t want people to kind of know what their dirty laundry is
I understand why it’s the case in some … sometimes it’s important to do that
especially in a regional community where everyone’s talking anyway … So Trudie actually set up a few community forums
and she invited the school community to come and talk about the issues so that they could look at ways to change it
They brought in a different way for teachers to engage with students
It was … really trying to engage them in a different kind of level rather than being more punitive
It was developing a respect between teachers and students
and some of the students that I spoke to at the school said that had actually had a huge
and he said that he had had a whole host of issues during his schooling life
and he decided now that he wants to become a teacher because one of the teachers at the school made such an impact on him that he wanted to be one of those teachers
He wanted to be one of the positive teachers that he experienced
For the story behind the headlines, listen to The Morning Edition, with a new episode live every weekday from 5am. You can find The Morning Edition on Apple, Spotify, and everywhere you listen to your podcasts.
Drinking in the peace on the banks of East Gippsland\\u2019s Mitchell River, you\\u2019d have no idea what once was \\u201C\\u201D is mere minutes away.
That\\u2019s because six years after low point was aired on national television, the school is now seen as an entirely different place, almost doubling the number of year 12 students accepted into university and apprenticeships since.
Speaking with host Samantha Selinger-Morris on , Age education reporter Nicole Precel tells how two determined principals dramatically turned around the culture of a school where educators were traumatised, pushed down the stairs, and where poor academic results and plummeting mental health, .
To listen, click the player below, or read on for an edited extract.
Selinger-Morris: [In 2019], it\\u2019s fair to say that this community and this school, it had a really sort of low public point because it was described on national television as \\u201CAustralia\\u2019s worst school\\u201D. So, can you tell us what led to this naming and by what metric was this deemed \\u201CAustralia\\u2019s worst school\\u201D?
Precel: That was quite a low point for the school. There were a few things that led to that A Current Affair piece [that] went to air ... there were quite a few teachers who had been assaulted, some who had said that they unfortunately had post-traumatic stress disorder from some of the things that happened at the school while they were teaching.
Selinger-Morris: And then there\\u2019s a dramatic turn, though, in the life of this school and I guess the community because the school turned a corner, and it has become a radically different place, at least according to one teacher. What actually sparked this turnaround?
Precel: It was a few things ... there was a change in leadership. Obviously at the school they had an interim principal in there for a year after that, Trudie Nagle came in, and she became the principal until only recently when [former Education Department senior education improvement leader] Tony Roberts took over.
But Trudie really saw that there was a need for some significant change ... So one of the things can happen is that when there are big issues, cultural issues \\u2026 what can happen is schools close shop, and they don\\u2019t let people come in. They don\\u2019t want people to kind of know what their dirty laundry is. And sometimes that can create distrust.
For the story behind the headlines, listen to The Morning Edition, with a new episode live every weekday from 5am. You can find The Morning Edition on , , and everywhere you listen to your podcasts.
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Billy Boiling Competition - Tom Morey (judge) winners Jack Oldham and Zoran Daugiakis and Craig Webb (judge)
It was another great Easter at Echo Bend Camping Park
The weather was perfect for the visitors to either relax at their camp site
do some short walks or go for a drive and see what’s in the region
have some fun being involved in the planned annual events
Each event had a good number of kids and adults joining in
so the Easter Bunny could find them Sunday morning
The Easter Bunny walk proved very popular with a lot of new families taking rememberable photos at the Bunny Tree
This has been a special time for the Webb family through the years
Now the children assist with running the event and all excited for the grandchildren to be involved
The gumboot throwing competition started with the little ones
Most sections had to have heats as it became very popular to have a go
The main excitement is always with the billy boiling competition
others went steaming ahead to have the flames roaring within a few minutes
It did take some time for the water to actually boil
with our very proud winners taking home the chief billy boiling mugs
a great souvenir of their Echo Bend Camping Park Easter holiday
The whole weekend had been perfect for camping
The weather held off for the afternoon activities
Luckily the storm clouds went around the campground
© 2024 James Yeates | All Rights Reserved
Paul Fleming claimed the Rob Chester Shield at Tamboon Inlet
the major trophy on offer for the Wy Yung Angling Club trip to the far east
Tamboon was the scene of another successful Rob Chester Shield for members of Wy Yung Angling Club
with competitors reeling in impressive catches despite
the waterway opening just a day before the event
Paul Fleming claimed the shield with an impressive 1576-gram tailor
The heaviest bream was landed Michael Smith (1013 grams)
while the heaviest bag was caught by Steven Brodribb (3895 grams)
Tahlia Hammond (1953 grams) was delighted to catch the heaviest junior bream
Secret weight winners include Luke Van Der Peet and Lachie Smith
The next event sees the the club host the Dr Mitchell Trophy bream leg on May 17–18
The winter season of the Bairnsdale and District Darts Association will kick off on May 7
off the back of the recent annual general meeting
Bairnsdale and District Darts Association recently held its annual general meeting at the Lindenow South Football Netball Club social rooms as final preparations are put in place for the winter season
The 2025/26 committee will be led by president Adrian Sherritt with support from Damion Blewitt (vice president)
Paul Beerens (competition organiser) and Mick O’Keefe
Leon Burns and Lynda Beerens (all general committee)
Round one of the winter season will start on May 7 with six teams to compete
Stratty Slayers and the Slingshots and Swampdogs from Lindenow South
Players are required to play three matches to qualify for the finals
The venues for the doubles and singles championships will be advised soon
with all registered players eligible to play in the championships
Round one matches include Briagalong Bullets taking on Lindenow Hotel
Club Outlaws at home against the Stratty Slayers
Bairnsdale Regional Health Service executive chef Laura Akkerman (pictured) and her Food Services team have won a Healthy Eating Advisory Service award for its innovation in implementing Healthy Choices into the menu for our cafeteria and kiosk customers
Any cook will tell you the secret to a great dish is a careful balance of ingredients and flavours – and that’s exactly what the Food Services team at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service (BRHS) cooks up each day
has won an Excellence in Innovation award from the Victorian department of Health’s Healthy Eating Advisory Service for its clever implementation of the Healthy Choices menu in its cafeteria
kiosk and Emergency Department vending machine
“The award was presented to Bairnsdale Regional Health Service for their dynamic approach to menu management
including daily updates and creative presentation for staff,” organisers said
“Their collaboration with a diverse range of retailers
showcased their commitment to enhancing food service innovation.”
a Victorian Government initiative in all state-run health facilities
The unhealthy “red” category must not make up more than 20 per cent of total food sales
Health services are audited for their compliance
Laura said she and her team have developed initiatives such as healthy lunch packs
daily food orders according to availability and providing healthier options for the kiosk
“When I first started in this job two years ago
I was a bit freaked out by it (Healthy Choices)
What do you mean we’ve got an audit about this?” Laura said
“So I developed a master plan to hit the target
It’s so easy and so organised.”
The team uses a food tracker tool supplied through Healthy Choices to perform a
daily food audit to ensure the 20 per cent target is met
so my administration officer Laurel Thorpe lets me know and we swap dishes and make sausage rolls another day,” Laura said
“We’re combating that negative attitude that we’re taking choices away
You can still have hot chips or fried fish
The volunteers from the Kiosk Auxiliary were concerned about a potential loss of revenue under Healthy Choices
but Laura said her team supplies them sandwiches
wraps and lunch packs – healthy and appealing options to sell alongside more traditional kiosk foods
“I don’t see anything as a barrier
You’ve just got to use your resources
This year it took me five minutes to prepare
“Of 497 public health services in Victoria
80 including BRHS comply fully with Healthy Choices
“The staff-led Positive Health and Employee Wellbeing Committee was also a great support.”
Acting chief executive officer Kathy Kinrade praised the efforts of Laura and the Food Services team to cater for all tastes while delivering nutritious options
“Laura and the Food Services team does an incredible job every day to provide food and drink options that appeal to a broad range of consumers,” she said
“This recognition shows that BRHS leads the way in finding solutions that maximise our resources and fulfil our Healthy Choices obligations
Looking for a better way to do things is part of our organisational approach to change.”
This latest award comes six months after BRHS was named one of Victoria’s three best medium-sized health services at the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards and the BRHS Aboriginal Health Unit’s win at the 2024 Gippsland Primary Health Award in the “transforming access to care through inclusive practice” category for its Culture at the Heart indigenous cardiac health program
Handing out how to vote cards on the fist day of pre polling in Bairnsdale are (from left): Katie Zagami (Nationals)
Marilyn Webster (Greens) and One Nation candidate Greg Hansford
The Labor Party’s candidate in the seat of Gippsland Sonny Stephens received the number one position in the ballot paper
Ms Stephens drew the number one spot at the Australian Electoral Commission draw held in Sale last week
She is followed by One Nation’s Gregory Hansford in number two position and The Greens Rochelle Hine in number three
Sitting member Darren Chester representing the Nationals is in the fourth position
while Libertarian Simon Wilson rounds out the card with number five
Early voting commenced on Tuesday at 89 Nicholson St
Bairnsdale and the Lakes Entrance Memorial Hall
The early voting centres will be closed tomorrow
People who are registered for postal voting can expect to receive their packages in
Gippsland is one of the safest Nationals seats in Australia
which covers East Gippsland and most of the Latrobe Valley
previously known as the Country Party since 1922
It is the only seat the party has held continuously since its creation
After the distribution of preferences at the 2022 election
Mr Chester received 70 per cent of the votes
recording a swing of 3.9 per cent in his favour
the Gippsland Sheep Breeder's Association is turning 70 years old
The Gippsland Sheep Breeder’s Association was founded on March 11
Initially the objectives were to conduct an annual Sheep Show and Ram sale which was originally held at Bairnsdale
Around 1960 this was transferred to Sale where the tradition continued until 1996
This was a very successful event with Stud Breeder’s from far and wide attending
Gippsland was a premium sheep area and Studs from all over Victoria and many from NSW bringing their sheep along with the hope of selling to the Gippsland wool growers
In 1977 rams were offered from areas including Hay
In 1996 29 studs offered rams from an even wider area
In a trend that continued in ensuing years nine Gippsland studs sold
These rams became increasingly sort after and resulted in the Gippsland Stud Merino Breeder’s running their own sale and the sheep breeder’s sale ceased to be
While the Show and Sale were the original goals of the association these quickly transitioned into much more
During the 1960s production trials began and fostered a competitive side to growing wool in Gippsland
These production trials are still happening and have been held
Through the Gippsland Sheep Breeder’s Association many industry days were run to assist woolgrowers to maximise their returns
Sheep classing workshops and general industry days were held with the majority of those participating happy to share
their knowledge and along with the Sheep and Wool officers of the Department of
Agriculture this led to a very vibrant organisation that became the envy of other wool growing areas
Symposiums were held with early ones being at Paynesville country club and later at the Bairnsdale Golf club with sellout crowds of around 150 people attending
The range of topics and speakers added to the knowledge that armed Gippsland wool growers to produce some of the best wool in the world
as they show how woolgrowers have been able to change
trial held at Giffard with his winning sheep averaging $10 per head with a carcass value of $6
This trial was just after additional measurement of wool came in
Frank’s three fleeces averaged 23.3 micron
Moving forward to 1983 to a trial that had 27 entrants Strathfieldsaye won this trial with the winning group averaging $30 per head and $14.50 for the carcass but a big drop in micron since the 1969 trial saw these averaging 21 micron
and Kaye Davidson won with the winning group micron coming in at an average of 15.5 micron
This has been a major shift in Gippsland sheep breeding largely due to the Gippsland Sheep Breeders networking
Life members from the earlier days are Dick Kyle
Later additions to this list are John Freeman
The Gippsland Sheepbreeders’ current three year trial is split into two shearings with half of the sheep shorn at nine
months and the balance being shorn after 12 months growth
This is to compare the production from two different shearing periods and ascertain which would be more profitable with different types of sheep and wool
Barry Hutton with Dohne/Composite lambs in an on farm feedlot
Dohne genetics are not only adding growth potential and milk but also boosting the wool income for a northeast Victorian composite flock producing prime lambs
transitioned from joining composite ewes to Poll Dorset and composite rams to Dohne
wiping off eight microns in a single generation and picking up an extra 440c/kg for the wool
said the importance of wool in the composite enterprise was questioned due to low bale returns
“We were getting nothing for our wool so decided to try Dohne rams over the composite ewes to lift wool and skin quality,” he said
“When you are looking at 30 micron wool there is only one way to go and that
introducing Dohnes was also growth and milk.”
Mr Hutton drew on his past experience as agricultural manager for Rivalea
evaluating the dual-purpose advantages of the Dohne breed
Rivalea ran 800 Dohne ewes with the progeny grain finished in a paddock feedlot
achieving feed conversions of 4:1 or better and average daily gains of 320 grams
“Our goal was to reach acceptable slaughter weights of wether lambs within 12 months of age and increase lambing percentages above industry average for each of the properties without needing greater inputs,” Mr Hutton said
“There was no extra management or mulesing
and we received a good response from the abattoir.”
Lima Park Pastoral runs 2200 ewes and 340 Angus females across 1255ha of soil types ranging from alluvial to hill country in a 715mm rainfall zone
The first and second cross lambs are sold either over the hooks or in the saleyards
Eight rams were sourced from Macquarie Dohne stud
94 singles and 376 multiples (77.7 per cent)
“We didn’t scan for triplets or quads
but the result was 699 lambs marked or 183.9 per cent,” Mr Hutton said
the composite lambs averaged 29.5 micron while the Dohne/composite lambs averaged 22.5 micron
“I thought if we could reduce the micron to 25 at least it would be in the comeback range but to get it back to 22.5 in a single cross without losing growth rates was remarkable,” Mr Hutton said
“We wean at 12 weeks regardless and our best Dohne cross lambs at 11 weeks of age were weighing 41.5kg (liveweight)
The best of the pure composites weighed 40.5kg
The Dohne rams are selected on a weighting of 80 per cent carcase and 20 per cent wool traits
along with well-nourished bright white wool with crimp definition on plain
“We selected for above average eye muscle depth
neutral fats and frame score to correctively mate with the composite ewes,” Mr Hutton said
“The Dohne/composite lambs matched the Poll Dorset/Composite lambs in growth rates
“In January we sent December shorn mid-July drop Poll Dorset and Dohne cross wether lambs to Wagga Wagga market
and the top Dohne cross lamb weighed 61.5kg liveweight
“They were introduced to a grain supplement using a creep feeder at seven weeks of age and then finished on irrigated pastures.”
Maiden ewes are classed on wool type and shape
flushed pre-joining with lupins and joined in February at seven months of age
The classed-out ewes are joined to Poll Dorset rams
451 mixed age composite ewes were joined with 57 singles
377 twins (83.6 per cent) and 17 dries (38 per cent)
while pregnancy scanning was 187 per cent and 189 per cent lambs marked
“We retained the Dohne F1 ewes and the wool averaged 23.1 micron at shearing
The composite wool at 29.5 micron made 250c/kg greasy
and the Dohne-composite wool returned 690c/kg,” Mr Hutton said
“The F1 Dohne ewes have a mature weight of 60-65kg
They had a lamb on the ground and still had their own lambs’ teeth.”
have gone up and we need to maximise production from each ewe
so a return of 690c/kg compared to 250c/kg
followed by Gunfire Breakfast at the Paynesville Men’s Shed
Parade assembles at the corner of King Street and Main Road at 8.45am and steps off at 8.50am
All are welcome to honour the service and sacrifice of all who have served
Dawn Service: 6am-6.15am at Bairnsdale Cenotaph
Community wreath laying at Bairnsdale Cenotaph: 10am-10.15am
ANZAC Commemoration March: 10.50am (assembly from 10.30am)
Main Service: 11am at Metung RSL Sub-Branch
Mallacoota Pony Club and Mallacoota Bunker Museum are holding an informal service
11am: Walk from Corner of Betka Road and Airport Road to the bunker
Free museum tour and barbecue (gold coin donation) afterwards
6am: Dawn Service at the Orbost Cenotaph (corner of Nicholson and Salisbury Streets)
10.45am: March followed by Main Service at 11am (marchers to assemble at 10.30am)
Paynesville Probus Club life member David McGrath and outgoing president Bill Buckle
At the recent Paynesville Probus Club Annual General Meeting several members were recognised for their continued membership and involvement with the club over many years
their years of membership and service totals 88 years
– Anne Bedford 25 year award (absent)
Members were congratulated on attaining these milestones
David McGrath was awarded the coveted award of life membership
David has been a member of Paynesville Probus Club for 23 years
David has been actively involved in the decision making
holding roles including the roles of president and secretary as well as many other roles
David along with Frances has been instrumental in providing outings and trips enjoyed by many members
A well deserved reward for 23 years of service to Paynesville Probus
Easter Sunday will be a hive of activity at the Swan Reach Recreation Reserve (footy oval) as the Swan Reach Easter Car Book and Makers Market kicks off at 9am to 12 noon
to attract additional makers and car boot traders to attend
In addition the Twin Rivers Lions Community Book Exchange will be open during market hours
where you can drop off donations of books and materials as well as checking out our free book exchange range of approximately 3000 books and a small selection of handmade crafts
The children’s literacy project will also be open so you can both drop off donations of excellent quality of unwanted children’s books as well as pick up a supply of age appropriate children’s books for your family and friends
The recycling hub is also open to receive your collections of cans and bottles along with unwanted spectacles (all sizes and styles) and any unwanted postage stamps (new and used) as well as unwanted stamp albums
Everyone is encouraged to clear out your storage sheds and cupboards and bring along your unwanted treasures so you can set up your own car boot stall so you can pass on your unwanted items to others in the community searching for those unique treasures
Last month this area saw a lot of interest
with many successfully selling their treasures
Traders are encouraged to pre-book your site by contacting the market coordinator via the club’s email or by contacting the newspapers office for the phone number
Tom Hardwick was part of the Victoria Men's Open team that made it back to back victories in the Australian Championships in Melbourne last week
Victoria has made it back-to-back wins in the Australian Men’s and Mixed Netball Association Open Men’s Championship played in Melbourne recently
Tom Hardwick was part of the winning Victorian side for the second straight year
The grand final was a thrilling encounter with Victoria prevailing 44-42
With one win each at the tournament heading into this match
the grand final was always going to be another epic clash between these two rivals
dominating the first quarter to take a 14 to 8 lead
their defensive pressure ramped up and they closed the gap to just four by halftime
Victoria made a change in the shooting circle
Roberts stepped in at goal shooter while Killey received physio treatment
with Hardwick given the task off running out front
riding the momentum from their second quarter resurgence
kept their line up unchanged after grinding the margin down steadily
cutting the margin to just two goals within the first five minutes
Victoria responded by injecting game changing fresh legs of Connor Lily at goal attack
to reclaim their go-to target under the post
Germech found space with ease in the circle as the Victorian duo of Byron and Punshon focused their attention on double-teaming Brice under the post
Germech nailing a high volume of shots to help put his side in the lead for the first time in the game
With momentum swinging and just four minutes left on the clock
the game went goal for goal in a nail-biting stretch
Nexhip came up with a huge intercept off a centre pass
a play that could’ve restored a two goal lead for Victoria
Germech scored on the buzzer levelling up the score at 33 all
With a title on the line it was a hard fought start to the final quarter with New South Wales winning critical balls in some intense plays
capitalising on the amazing defensive pressure of Punshon
the Victorian side treasured every possession making sure the right options presented before feeding
Killey under the post to win the match by two goals in an epic finale
MC for the Paynesville ANZAC Day service Gary Gaffney is pictured with Paynesville RSL Sub-branch President Jack Peterson prior to the successful day's proceedings
Paynesville’s ANZAC Day 9am service was well attended with close to 700 people attending
The respectfully gathered crowd had a wonderful cross-section of the local community represented
Emcee for the morning service was Gary Gaffney
who introduced RSL sub-branch president Jack Peterson who welcomed all
This year is Jack’s fifth and final year as president of the sub-branch at Paynesville
Guest speaker was RAAF Flight Lieutenant Thomas Peters
who said the ANZAC legacy is more than a history of battlefield courage
“It is a testament to values that continue to shape Australians place in the world,” he said
“The men who landed in Gallipoli and those who followed in every conflict since were known not only for bravery but for initiative
mateship and sharp thinking under pressure
“ANZACs have been described as standing for reckless valour in a good cause for enterprise
Those qualities especially resourcefulness and critical thinking pretty well become defining traits of Australians in uniform and beyond
“In today’s strategic environment where adaptability and decision-making at all levels can turn the tide
“That spirit lives on in those who continue to serve across all domains across the world
“Like many who wear the uniform I have had the honour of contributing to this legacy through deployment abroad and joint operations with our allies
“Wherever we serve we carry with us the values passed down through generations
flew into danger and held a line when it counted most
They did so not for glory but for the freedom and future of their homeland… and its places like Paynesville where the ANZAC stories continues through local service and quiet community strength reminds us what they thought for
“Paynesville has a proud history of service where 13 local man lost their lives in the great war and their sacrifice is commemorated on the foreshore in a uniquely Australian tribute
“Henry James Bird was killed in action in France in 1916 and the legacy is not etched in stone but carried by generations that values freedom
“As we reflect on the ANZAC tradition we must also look forward to a rapidly changing world
the traits that defined those early soldiers independent thought
that Australian and New Zealand troops came ashore on the beaches of Gallipoli
Those were the words of Bairnsdale RSL Sub-Branch president
CVO AM at the 11am ANZAC Day service at the Bairnsdale Cenotaph last Friday
More than 4000 people turned out in the warm and sunny conditions for the mid morning service
community groups and members of the Air Force march by and see four PC21 RAAF aircraft fly overhead
thanking those who have served and continue to serve today
thank you with deep humility,” Mr Pappin said
“You carried the ANZAC legacy through the many conflicts and peacekeeping missions that followed
“You wore the uniform with pride and honour
and you lived the values that continue to define us as Australians
“To the fine young men and women of the Royal Australian Air Force with us this morning
most of you are just embarking on the noble journey of service to our country: You are the current custodians of that legacy of resilience and selflessness in the face of adversity.”
School captains at St Mary’s Primary School
a poem that was published in The London Times newspaper about the outbreak of WWI
before a poem written by Joshua Dyer titled A Thousand Men are Walking for Remembrance Day in 2019 was read by Bairnsdale Secondary College student
The dawn service also drew a generous crowd to an intimate service
President of the Bairnsdale Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Trevor Hancock spoke about the significance of the day
is a time to remember and be inspired by fellow Australians who did extraordinary things in extraordinary times,” Mr Hancock said
Australians want leaders; statesmen and women
ANZAC Day exposes this need by reminding us of what leaders and selflessness look like.”
Bairnsdale Production Line Theatre Company’s upcoming musical Come From Away
opens at The Forge Theatre in less than two weeks
This is the story of that fateful day almost 25 years ago
when the tragic events of September 11 2001 rocked the world
It’s a story of resilience in the face of extraordinary circumstances
Extraordinary circumstances that can also bring people together from the most diverse of backgrounds
Two of those stories explored in Come From Away are that of Bob
a New Yorker who never trusts anyone with his wallet
missing in the World Trade Centre emergency
Played by Jaydeep Patal and Shivani Ashley
both are brand new to Production Line and to The Forge Theatre
Jaydeep had been based in Melbourne for more than 18 years when he decided a tree change to Bairnsdale was in order last year
While Jay has worn many hats over the years
But he never expected to add ‘actor’ to
Pete Martignoles asked me one day if I could sing and if I’d like to be in a theatre production,” Jaydeep said
I shared that I had done a bit of singing in my youth and had been on stage a few times
though I once forgot the lyrics and my friends took the opportunity to tease me
which left me nervous about performing again
“So I went to a rehearsal to see what it was all about and saw a wonderful group of people practicing together.”
Admitting it was daunting starting behind the rest of the cast
Jaydeep said the support he has received from everyone has been invaluable and the local talent he’s on stage with is inspiring
“I instantly felt a sense of warmth and
and I realised that since moving from Melbourne
I hadn’t had the chance to engage with a
community like this in my new town,” Jaydeep said
having studied a Bachelor of Arts and Education at Monash University
She recently relocated to Bairnsdale and teaches psychology and science at Bairnsdale Secondary College
Shivani grew up playing piano and singing in choirs
Although she had taken a step back from performing since high school in 2019
her passion was reignited through performing at DUCK
during the Valentine’s concert at St Mary’s Bairnsdale
perfect show to step into musical theatre,” Shivani said
“As a Sri Lankan woman who’s just moved to a rural Australian town
“Portraying a woman of colour and seeing diversity represented on stage in Bairnsdale is a powerful experience
I’m so proud to be part of it.”
for a total of 10 performances over three weekends
More information can be found on the Production Line website and Facebook page
MEERLIEU: Phill and Kay Richardson laying the community wreath
ANZAC Day 2025 was once again well attended marking the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing — and 10 years since we began holding our Dawn Service in Meerlieu
The morning began with a powerful moment as Peter Caithness emerged from the darkness playing the bagpipes
walking solemnly to the flagpole where young Tyson Smith lowered the flag to half mast
who delivered the poem In Flanders Fields with heartfelt clarity
This year’s commemorative address was delivered by Zoe Blandford
who spoke of the local men who went to war and never returned — one just 19 years old
another who enlisted at 49 after lying about his age
“Today is a chance to pay our respects to the local men whose faces and names are listed on our honour boards — who wore the uniform and stood for something greater than themselves,” Zoe said
“There are 56 servicemen named on the honour boards from Meerlieu Bengworden
“In 1914 the first three of these men signed up and took part in the fighting at Gallipoli
“Sydney Douglas Cox from Perry Bridge was the first from our districts to sign up and he would be the first of our casualties
“At 24 years old Sydney’s battalion took part in the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli as part of the second wave to come ashore
Sydney survived this landing but died a few weeks later when the brigade was transferred to assist in the assault of a nearby village
“John Hoffmann from Bengworden was also part of the Gallipoli landing with his brigade being the covering force for the landing and part of the first ashore at 4.30am
John went on to fight in more battles as well as over come illness and injury
A fractured leg ended his war service and he returned to Australia
“Charles Patrick Deery from Bengworden was the third local to sign up for the war and whilst not part of the first ANZAC landing assault his brigade was transferred to the Gallipoli peninsula a few weeks later
“Charles took part in the battle of Lone Pine
It was here Charles received a severe gunshot wound and died in hospital from gangrene
“More of the local men would go on to sign up for the war over the subsequent years
the enlistment age at the beginning was 18-35 years old but was later changed to 45
we hear accounts of those who were younger than 18 who faked their age to enlist
He joined the field artillery and after serving 253 days would be discharged as unfit for service
“A doctor would state he looked years older than his claimed 45 years of age
“The last two from our districts would enlist in 1918
“William Billy Giles from Meerlieu was 19 when he enlisted
his age was likely a factor for the later sign up
He was part of the 4th light horse regiment and took part in
guarding and escorting trains to Cairo and Suez
William Giles survived to return home to Australia
“John Alexander Edmondson was the Bengworden school teacher who had tried to enlist on numerous occasion’s over the years
With persistence and a desire to be of service he was finally granted leave to serve in the expeditionary forces
however he would not end up leaving Australia
“You can find all of these men’s stories in They Answered The Call
a book written by locals Sue Deery and Andrea Bush and it contains the histories of these men and many others from our districts
To have captured so much of their history into a book is such an important way to ensure that we honour their sacrifice and that their stories are never lost
those who did not return and those who returned carrying wounds both visible and unseen
and the quiet resilience with which they rebuilt their lives within our communities
“Twenty men from our districts would not return home
followed by Cooper Hart who played the Last Post beautifully
where the names of the fallen were respectfully read by Ronald Bedggood — the very person who unveiled the memorial a decade ago
The community wreath was placed by long-time locals Phill and Kay Richardson
followed by the Wellington Shire mayor Cr Scott Rossetti
The community then gathered in the hall for a traditional gunfire breakfast
lovingly prepared by the ever-reliable cooking team led by Sue Vaughan
who once again did a stellar job feeding the masses
This year’s ANZAC Biscuit baking competition was judged by original 2015 winner Carol Blandford and local Deaf Australian cricketer Justin Morgan
Winners were Yvonne Byers (adults) and Florence Preston (under 12)
Swan Reach coach Danielle Ryan again has her side playing in great form
unbeaten after two rounds in the Omeo District Football Netball competition
are the only two unbeaten sides after two rounds of Omeo District netball
The Alpine Ranges sit on top of the ladder after easily accounting for Buchan by 31 goals last Saturday
Swan Reach easily accounted for Lindenow South by 37 after the Swampies were impressive winners over Bruthen in round one
It does appear the top two sides are at least 20-30 goals superior to the remainder of the competition at this stage
the Bulldogs scored their first win of the season
an easy 17-goal victory over Swifts Creek in the mountains
Cassy Lear and Emma Quilligan led the way for the Bulldogs
who welcomed some players back in to the line up this week
Kaiela Rodgers and Tess George were serviceable for the Demons
who currently sit on the bottom of the table
Buchan hosts Lindenow South in what looks
Bairnsdale business owners have been left concerned after a drug-affected homeless individual appeared to have used faeces to write on walls and windows recently
The incident has caused shop owners and locals to seek out a solution to this complex issue
A drug-affected homeless individual has sparked concern among Bairnsdale business owners after writing on walls and windows in what is believed to be faeces
The business owners have obvious concerns for their safety and that of the public
however have also said more needs to be done to support this individual and other homeless people across the region
“There were smears of unidentifiable fluid and mud on the windows of Toyworld
This man sleeps and toilets out the front of shops such as Toyworld
Nicholson River Soaps and The Book Orchard
He also causes problems with these businesses during the day and scares customers and others on the street,” one business owner said
“Said male is an ice user and there is a bad batch going around – this would explain his recent deterioration from a few weeks ago
There has also been an increase in the past few weeks of other persons appearing not only highly intoxicated but very unwell – more than alcohol would cause – to the extent that emergency services have been called for welfare reasons
“Unfortunately it seems the police do not have capacity or are unable to get these people help when shopkeeper/community asks for it
“Shop owners and passers-by are combining to actively seek out a solution to this problem and constantly call on police and council for assistance
The council is also now calling on Police to help do something
“Not only is there a welfare issue for the person(s) concerned there are also safety concerns for the community and business owners
economic concerns as shoppers refuse to patronise the stores because they are scared and the cost to clean up after these people
Moving these people on is not solving the problem
“Allowing self determination for those suffering from mental health is to be congratulated
however something needs to be able to happen when persons who quite obviously cannot look after themselves due to their mental health / drug use and it is having a detrimental effect on them and the community and/or they are consistently coming to police attention
“We are trying as a community to help but our hands are tied and we are suffering for it.”
Acting Senior Sergeant Mitch Capodiferro said Bairnsdale Police have recently met with concerned business operators who have been impacted by this individual’s behaviour
“While there are various contributing factors to this issue
police have a role to play to ensure the safety of the community is maintained and any identified offences are investigated,” he said
“To enable police to be of assistance and investigate offences
I encourage all members of the community including business operators to contact 000 (if police are needed at a location) or the police station (for advice only)
police actions vary but depending on circumstances the police response may look like: Offering individuals support via referrals; Utilising ‘move on powers’ under Common Law to prevent a breach of the peace; Investigation and prosecution of any identified offences
“Whilst police do have a role to play with this community issue
it requires a collaborative response with our partner agencies and will be tabled for discussion at the next Local Safety Committee meeting.”
President of the Bairnsdale chamber of Commerce
“is a direct result of a failed State Government policy”
“They throw all the responsibility onto our police force without the necessary resources,” he said
“This is a state government lacking financial management
understanding its danger to business and lack of ability to tackle crime and social disorder.”Local State MP Tim Bull the individual who is responsible for the most recent incident is a person well known to him and someone he has tried to assist personally several times
Another leading local Main Street trader said faeces or poo had been wiped on his windows
he contacted local police who said there is nothing they can do
“someone needs to step up and be accountable whether it’s our Mayor
the chief of police or our local elected politicians
constant conversation does not help the CBD business traders at all
It is a very sad situation when l have to worry about my sixteen year old junior coming to work and stepping over a junkie at our back door.”
At the announcement of Federal funding for the Bairnsdale Senior Citizens Club are (from left): East Gippsland Shire Council chief executive Fiona Weigall
Labor Party candidate for Gippsland Sonny Stephens
seniors citizens club president Peter Drummond and Denise Knight
Labor Candidate for Gippsland Sonny Stephens and Labor Senator for Victoria Raff Ciccone met members of the Bairnsdale Senior Citizens Club on Monday to announce $500,000 funding to find a suitable meeting space for the group
Federal Labor has identified a disused kindergarten that would be ideal for this group to call home
A full independent review of the building has revealed the site requires significant renovation and refit to be fit for purpose
This election commitment would put $500,000 towards this build
which would mean the project could be delivered and in use within six months of works commencing
This will allow the Bairnsdale Senior Citizens to provide a range of affordable
Currently they do not have stable place to call their own
With nearly 40 per cent of the population of Gippsland 60 years old – and over 22 per cent over 70 – seniors play a big part in our community
The Government is committed to providing a welcoming and engaged space for inclusion and accessible activities
particularly when social inclusion can be difficult in remote areas
election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles
“I’m delighted to support the senior citizens of Bairnsdale and surrounding communities in announcing this $500,000 election commitment to create a beautiful
practical and permanent space,” Ms Stephens said
“Senior citizens are a vital part of our community and I’m proud to work with East Gippsland Shire Council to
“I’m grateful to the local community for supporting this project and supporting each other,” she said
Senator Ciccone said he was pleased to work with East Gippsland Shire Council to ensure projects like this happen for our regional communities where geographic isolation can lead to a lack of social inclusion
“This project will allow seniors to make valuable contributions to their community
and dignity that social interaction provides
“The Albanese Labor Government is supporting our senior citizens in Bairnsdale and the East Gippsland region,” she said
Senior Citizens president Peter Drummond said the club had been waiting 23 years for a suitable meeting place
She said the club had been meeting at the Picnic Point Hall
but because it was a shared facility it was not suitable
She said it was particularly not suited to people with disabilities
“We are an organisation with a lot of elderly people and just simple issues such as access are difficult
We also have to pack up all our equipment after each meeting
“This is particularly difficult for our members,” she said
“We are keen to work with the shire to find our own place
but we want to be involved with that process.”
Mr Drummond said everyone was excited with Monday’s announcement and “it all looks promising.”
There are busy months coming up on the Pony Club circuit in the East Gippsland zone
There are busy months ahead for the East Gippsland Zone of Pony Clubs with a huge cluster of events planned
The action begins at Rosedale on Sunday with a working bee as the club prepares for the State Horse Trials on May 17-18
Set up and preparation will continue with two more working bees on May 10 and 11
team of four and games will be staged at the Bairnsdale racecourse on May 3-4
A zone meeting will be at Stratford on May 21
followed by the “Ride to Time” at Bairnsdale on May 24
Whilst the Briagolong Stockland Challenge on June 1 is already attracting great entries
Freakish Bairnsdale talent Tyran Rees was voted best player on Saturday against Drouin in a game held at Morwell
Drouin is playing at various grounds across Gippsland this year
Bairnsdale has broken through for its first win of the season in round two of the Gippsland League
defeating Drouin by 48 points at the Morwell Recreation Reserve
Bairnsdale kicked with the assistance of what wind was left in the first quarter
The Redlegs got the jump on the young Hawks and had the first three goals on the board before Drouin realised that the game had started
This was led by the dominance of the Bairnsdale onballers early
Tom Blenheim (26) and Lachlan Cloak getting their hands on the ball early
The Hawks then settled and it became an open game with some quick ball movement that resulted in majors for both teams
Bairnsdale coming out on top in a high scoring first quarter
holding a two goal ascendancy which pleased coach
The second quarter started in similar fashion to the first
where both sides moved the ball quickly and tried to hit the scoreboard
However the more experienced Bairnsdale players started to dominate around the ball and the continual forward attacks were proving too much for the Hawks’ defence
Harvey (38) and Blenheim were having a field day around the ground
through the dominance of new ruckman Jack White in the middle
Kye and Caleb were trying hard for the Hawks and a surprise packet up forward in Tomas Unferdorben
who finished with three goals was providing some instances of brilliance
Bairnsdale began to kick away and the crowd was thinking how far
the young legs of Drouin managed to kick three on the trot to keep some interest in the game at half time
The third quarter was a dour struggle where both teams struggled to get their game going and scoring was proving hard
The flowing football of the first half was nowhere to be seen and there were stoppages
with the only three majors kicked by the Redlegs
The last quarter brought back the end-to-end football with goals being kicked up either end
Bairnsdale able to keep the Hawks at bay as both sides finished with four goals each for the quarter
The Redlegs would be pleased with the result as champion big man
Ethan East was uncharacteristically fumbling and non-dominant in the air
while Brayden McCarrey was reasonably well held
Byron Vickery impressed kicking three after the coaching panel swapped him and Ricky Tatnell in the second quarter
the former looking more comfortable back in defence
Oscar Pike and Damon O’Connor also got plenty of ball and look to be growing in confidence
Ashwood was delighted with the result but mindful that there is still plenty of work to be done
we need to show more composure when we have the football
it was definitely a significant improvement
but we are still looking way from mastering our craft,” Ashwood said
The Redlegs were best served by their mosquito fleet
while they would be hoping the form of White continues into the future
Drouin got consistent contributions from Kye Quirk
Bairnsdale will enjoy a break over the Easter weekend before welcoming Leongatha to the Bairnsdale Oval for round three
Ashwood reported that the Redlegs have got through unscathed injury wise
Granite Rock residents who are opposing a proposed burnout pad in the middle of the Bairnsdale Speedway facility
A group of Granite Rock residents who live in the vicinity of the Bairnsdale Speedway are opposing an East Gippsland Shire planning permit to construct a new driver training and burnout pad
The $270,000 proposal includes a 50m x 35m concrete training pad which is 150mm thick and includes 40MPA reo construction
It would be situated inside the current speedway track
A decision on the application will not come before January 16
Objections can be made up until an official decision is made
from concerns about noise to smoke pollution
as well as disturbing nearby adjoining properties classed as Residential Rural/Rural Lifestyle and the increasing number of housing developments which have grown closer to the speedway site
Some have suggested the shire is eager to move the Gippsland Motorplex burnout pad off its own land at the Bairnsdale Aerodrome as it will soon undergo an expansion
They claim the shire has a conflict of interest and any decision should be made by an independent body
The proposed driver training pad will be utilised by:
– Emergency services where it can act as a helipad for emergency situations
– Emergency meeting location for Emergency Services in times of natural disasters and meets the required criteria as a designated meeting point
– Driver training for community groups
– CFA and SES driver training and activity training facility
– Car clubs and motor enthusiast’s clubs to meet and exhibit the performance of their vehicles
– Provide a safe and supervised location for motor enthusiasts and driver training
Some of the comments from those objecting include:
– “I am completely opposed to it being moved to the Bairnsdale Speedway site as I have a house on the property that I and my extended family use on a regular basis.”
– “We are happy with the Bairnsdale Speedway meetings as they are at present as they were there when I purchased the property in 1979.”
– “Any changes to the Bairnsdale Speedway site should not be allowed and if they want to change the way this site is used
they should move from their present site to an area that does not disturb local residents.”
– “The land that I purchased over 20 years ago which joins the corner of the Bairnsdale Speedway is classed as 117 Residential Rural/Rural Lifestyle.”
– “This is an area that should not have a burnout pad
with the noise and the smoke disrupting my family’s quiet residential rural lifestyle.”
– “The pollution and noise associated with doing burnouts is totally unacceptable to me and my family
I have worked this land over the years without using chemicals as the owners before me have done
Now the Bairnsdale Speedway wants to take all this hard work away from me by polluting the area with rubber
oil and all sorts or toxic chemicals.”
– “This decision needs to be made by an independent body to get a fair outcome for all.”
– “My family and I have tolerated the speedway as it was there when we purchased the land
the Bairnsdale Speedway has really not changed over the years
we believe that the Bairnsdale Speedway needs to be relocated to another non-residential location further out of town as the town is moving out this way
eg: Brookfield development on the Great Alpine Road (Lucknow Hill) and new houses on land subdivided on the Great Alpine Road
Council says it is open to the concerns raised by some community members regarding the proposal to move Gippsland Motorplex to the Bairnsdale Speedway complex at Granite Rock
“The Motorplex’s lease at Bairnsdale Airport has concluded
and the land is required for the future development of the airport
This development is essential for supporting vital medical transfer
and other aviation services critical to our region,” General Manager Assets and Environment Stuart McConnell said
“We are supporting the Motorplex in identifying a new location
The Bairnsdale Speedway was proposed as an option by the Gippsland Motorplex and Bairnsdale Speedway Association organisations
given the potential benefits of co-locating motorsport activities
“We are listening to those in the community who have raised concerns about emissions such as noise and smoke
The planning application for the project is yet to be assessed against the Environmental Protection Authority’s requirements
the potential impact of increased noise at nearby residential properties will be considered as part of council’s assessment process
“Our Planning Department provides an independent assessment of planning permit applications
we required notification to all property owners who share a boundary with the speedway site and those directly opposite
due to the potential impact on property owners further afield
the application was advertised in the Bairnsdale Advertiser for the past three editions
This provides the opportunity for the entire community to be informed of the proposal
We also extended the minimum notice period because of the Christmas break.”
Bairnsdale VIEW Club is not only on the lookout for new members
but is also gearing up for its Mother's Day market
May 10 at the Lucknow Hall from 8.30am to 2pm
Bairnsdale VIEW Club is on the lookout for new members who want to give back to their community and make new connections with women in the area
is a network of close to 280 clubs and more than 13,000 women throughout Australia
For 65 years VIEW has connected with others in the community
enabling The Smith Family to reach more families in need
It provides a place for women to connect with each other
enjoy social activities and develop lasting friendships – all while supporting the work of children’s education charity
VIEW is proud to be the largest community sponsor of The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program
which provides students that are experiencing disadvantage with financial
VIEW nationally supports the education of 1800 students
particularly in the current economic climate
Bairnsdale VIEW Club currently supports 20 students
when we are celebrating 65 years of ‘Making a Difference’
is the perfect time to join VIEW as social events are truly back on the calendar including monthly general meetings
“Our events and activities are a way that we raise funds to support the education of our Learning for Life students
is fast approaching and we encourage our local community to come along and support this event
“There will be Mother’s Day gifts
“We are always looking for women of all backgrounds and ages to join us and look forward to welcoming new faces at our next monthly meeting.”
The next Bairnsdale VIEW Club meeting will take place at Club Eastwood on Wednesday
owner of East Handy Store in East Bairnsdale
East Gippsland Shire Council is providing a free Customer Experience Program to support local retail
The online training program is self-paced and designed to be flexible
allowing businesses to strengthen their customer service and business practices in a way that suits their schedule
The initiative aims to support local operators in enhancing service delivery
attracting and retaining customers and building long-term sustainability
Facilitated by industry expert Ange O’Connell
the program is fully funded by Emergency Recovery Victoria through the Business and Economic Recovery and Resilience Grant Program
The training covers key areas such as communication
customer engagement and service consistency
helping businesses enhance both their in-store and online customer interactions
runs a hospitality business – one of the key industries the program is designed to support
He credits his success to creating exceptional customer experiences
a focus that aligns closely with the goals of the training
“A great customer experience is about more than just good food – it’s about creating moments that leave a lasting impression,” Josh said
“We combine a worldly culinary approach with the best of East Gippsland’s local produce
ensuring every detail – from atmosphere to service – is considered
and a seamless sense of hospitality that keeps people coming back
“A program like this will help put East Gippsland on the map as a must-visit destination by elevating the customer experience at every level in multiple industries and raising the standard across the region.”
By upskilling employees and refining customer service strategies
businesses contribute to a more resilient local economy and a stronger reputation for East Gippsland as a welcoming destination
Investing in staff training not only improves day-to-day operations but also opens doors for employees
creating long-term career opportunities and economic sustainability
local businesses are invited to a free networking event at the Eagle Point Foreshore Hub on Thursday May 15
The evening will begin with refreshments and networking
followed by a short presentation at 7pm where Ange O’Connell will introduce the program and demonstrate how businesses can easily implement it
This is a chance for business owners to connect
and explore practical ways to strengthen their customer experience strategies
Business owners and operators are encouraged to take advantage of this free opportunity to enhance service quality
please book your tickets at https://events.humanitix.com/customer-experience-program
East Gippsland is set to come alive again this winter for the fifth annual East Gippsland Winter Festival
featuring a jam-packed program of wintery fun and frivolity across the region
visitors and locals alike will experience another epic month-long festival showcasing East Gippsland’s unique offerings of art
all the way to Omeo in the High Country and out to Cape Conran in the far east
this year’s festival will be five times the fun as the community showcases its creativity
recovery and resilience five years on from the devastating black summer bushfires
“In year one we were just amazed at the response
with so many people and local businesses getting involved,” explained Adam Bloem
“As the Black Summer Bushfires rolled straight into COVID lockdowns
the region was hit hard – but the Winter Festival provided some joy and an opportunity to help bring the community together with lots of free outdoor events
“It has grown each year and we now employ four part time staff and work with dozens of local artists
musicians and volunteers to help pull the festival together
It’s been wonderful to showcase local talent and see the region’s creativity with some really unique events and showcases.”
five festival favourites returning in 2025
along with five unique new additions to the 2025 program:
– June 21: Medieval Winter Fire Festival
Bruthen – be transported back in time at the Medieval Winter Fire Festival
– June 27: The Nicholson River Trestle Bridge Long Lunch
Nicholson – take in the glorious views up and down the Nicholson River while dining on the historic Railway Bridge
Enjoy a delicious collaboration lunch showcasing Gippsland’s best produce
Live music and desserts by the legendary Long Paddock top off one the most unique and delicious dining experiences in Victoria
Metung – Live ice sculpting and a spectacular fire show on the Metung Village Green overlooking the tranquil waters of Bancroft Bay
Lakes Entrance Foreshore – a mesmerising spectacular of artist-made lantern sculptures
and lighting projections will create a whimsical world on the Lakes Entrance Foreshore
– July 19: Deep In The Weeds at Sailors Grave’s Dunetown
Marlo – Sailor’s Grave Brewing’s infamous ‘Deep in the Weeds’ festival is back
for the first time – their epic new home base
Lakes Entrance – A collaboration between Eight Acres x Albert & Co
a roaring fire and an après ski dress code
Cann River – Dress in your best Op Shop
music and more in the stunning mud-brick Monaro Centre
– The Great Alpine Scarecrow Competition
get creative and display your scarecrow in the Swifts Creek area
If you need some inspiration the Great Alpine Gallery will be running a scarecrow making workshop at the
Lakes Entrance – after the unsurprising success of last year’s Sodafish x Guy Grossi collab
they are outdoing themselves this year with renowned chef
(And don’t worry if you missed last year’s Guy Grossi event
whispers are he’s back this year too)
– Bottomless cocktail brunch – Join Bancroft Bay Distillery for a Bottomless Cocktail Brunch at Pier 70 on the waterfront in Paynesville
The food will be as impressive as the view and Bancroft Bay Distillery will bring their signature spirits including gin
To discover more of this year’ s festival
program visit the East Gippsland Winter Festival website
The Quest team recently made the trip to Bairnsdale to check out the new apartment building in Dalmahoy street
Construction is well underway on the new Quest Bairnsdale in Dalmahoy Street
with the $40 million mixed-use property on track for a June/July 2025 opening
Key representatives from Quest Apartment Hotels
as well as Developers Dahlsens and BFN Developments (BFN are also the Builder) and Architects Fenton Design Group
gathered on site recently for a project update on the milestone development
One of those visiting was The Ascott Limited Australasia managing director
who was pleased with how the project was progressing
“We’re delighted to mark another key milestone in Quest Apartment Hotels’s ongoing growth
with construction of Quest Bairnsdale now underway,” Mr Mansfield said
“The Gippsland region is experiencing extraordinary growth
and Quest is delighted to be supporting that demand through the provision of exceptional hospitality experiences.”
“East Gippsland’s visitor numbers increased by 26 per cent for the 2023 year[1] on the prior year
and we know anecdotally that growth has continued
“Quest Bairnsdale will not only contribute to the local economy but also set a new standard for luxury and convenience
We are excited about the opportunities it brings for our guests and the local community.”
“Our goal remains to achieve significant growth targets under the ‘2030 growth strategy,’ aiming to reach over 200 Quest properties and 30 managed hotels by the end of the decade.”
BFN Developments and Architects Fenton Design Group on this project
“Their expertise and dedication ensure that this development will meet the highest standards of quality and excellence.”
Quest Bairnsdale will feature a three-storey
comprising 30 x studio rooms (includes two accessible rooms)
24×1 bedroom rooms (includes two accessible rooms) and 6×2 bedroom rooms
Work is progressing quickly and has already progressed to the third floor
which will add much-needed accommodation to the picturesque East Gippsland region
is a testament to Quest’s ongoing expansion and commitment to providing top-tier accommodation across Australia
Bairnsdale Racing Club is expecting a big crowd to Sunday's Bairnsdale Cup meeting
The Bairnsdale Cup – East Gippsland’s biggest race – is scheduled for Sunday at the picturesque Bairnsdale racecourse
Bairnsdale Racing Club has a huge day planned and it all begins with buses running to the track
so driving doesn’t need to be on the agenda
Lake Tyers through Lakes Entrance from Paynesville and around the Bairnsdale township
Eating options include food vans or exclusive dining in the Grandview Dining Room
marquees or umbrella packages are available with catering packages also available
Kids will be catered for with a kid zone booked with plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy
including a dart board and obstacle course
Child minding services are available on course
Fashions on the field will be again popular
A couple of living legends of the turf will be trackside
with Fawkner and Santa Ana Lane making the trip
Between them they have been successful in eight group one races and have accumulated more than $12 million in stakes
while Santa Ana Lane was the winner of the Rupert Clarke Stakes
Jay Podger will be performing live from 1-5pm
with the club promising there will be something for everyone
The meeting will have bookmakers in attendance and full TAB service
with the track has benefitted greatly from the recent reins and looks likely to be in the Slow 5-6 range
an ideal racing service for most gallopers
celebrated his 100th birthday last Friday surrounded by family and friends
He also marked the milestone at Maddocks Gardens
celebrated his 100th birthday last Friday surrounded by friends and family
Norman has lived in the area for much of his life
attending primary school at Lucknow before heading to Bairnsdale Tech School where he later dropped out at the age of 14
He later started up East Gippsland Garage with a partner
he would often provide free services to his clients
Norman married Aileen Moon in February 1947 – the pair lived close by and would often meet up – Aileen on a horse and Norman on a bike
who shared fond memories of their childhood
“We loved spending time on the water growing up
dad even learnt how to water ski at the age of 60,” June recalled
Norman and Aileen were married for almost 70 years before Aileen passed away in 2016
and Norman has two daughters six grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren
Sydney and Brisbane to celebrate the special occasion
Do you know someone who is blind or has low vision
Low vision could be a result of any eye condition including Macular Degeneration
Through a grant from the East Gippsland Shire Council
the Visionaries Group is holding an information and social event to provide networking opportunities
hear what support is available and provide the opportunity for those impacted by low or no vision to speak about their needs and suggest solutions
This free event is being held on Wednesday
Morning tea and a light lunch is included for participants and their carer
Proceedings will commence with an opening by the mayor
followed by speakers from the East Gippsland Shire Council
and the Visionaries Group (who are active volunteers for the vision impaired) who will speak about Blind Citizens Australia
Guide Dogs and Seeing Eye Dogs as well as support groups in the community
There will be time after each speaker to ask questions
During the long lunch break there will be an opportunity to visit exhibitor tables that will have information and some equipment on display
including the newly released Meta smart glasses that have a built-in camera that can take a photo of
The Visionaries Group warmly welcomes you to come along and help identify any gaps in services and support provided to people with low or no vision
For catering purposes please RSVP to either Debbie Carruthers or Jody Herbert
Enquiries to Brenda Murray (details via Bairnsdale Advertiser)
Barrie was thrilled to meet Dermott Brereton at the Big Blokes Barbecue last year
It would be hard to find a greater ambassador and staunch supporter of the Lakes Entrance community and its marine history than Barrie Peel
but he is also remembered by many friends and colleagues from the Bairnsdale area
particularly through his involvement with the Big Blokes Barbecue
Rotary contacts and as a sponsor of the Lakes Entrance Cup at the Bairnsdale Racing Club
Barrie moved to Lakes Entrance when he was seven years old and attended Lakes Entrance Primary School
completing his senior years at Carey Grammar
Recognised for his family business Peels Cruises which has been in operation for
many locals and tourists will remember Barrie at the helm of their many boats spruiking all the natural beauty of our region
The story of Peels goes back to the days before WWI
Charles and Harold Peel had a boat-building business in the West Melbourne canals and among many projects designed and built the first Jubilee yachts for the Royal Melbourne Yacht Club
They also built the punts that run through the Tunnel of Love at Luna Park
The partnership between Charles and Harold ended when Harold joined the Third Pioneer Battalion
Harold started a business in boat operating in 1919
moving from Melbourne to Lakes Entrance where he started hiring out skiffs and selling bait to amateur fishermen
Harold’s first excursion boat was called the Devon
then Lallahbrook and in 1928 Harold designed and built the first of the bird boats
Every boat since has had a bird in its name and it is a tradition that Barrie upheld
In 1936 Harold’s son and Barrie’s father
began his own operations hiring out small boats and in 1939 Harold passed away
George became a partner with his mother until she sold her share to her son-in-law
Jack left the partnership in 1959 and George operated as the sole owner until 1961 when his wife
later joined the firm and it was renamed Peel’s Tourist and
Barrie had wanted to stay home and be involved in boats but was advised by his father to go and apply for a job at the bank
He was walking past a National Bank sign on a Melbourne street and thought
So began his 30 year career with the National Bank
Barrie met Cheryl and they married in 1968
Their married life began in Euroa where Amanda was born
Barrie got his first managerial position at Dookie and James was born
Barrie resigned from his position as manager of the NAB bank in Sorrento and
Barrie and his brother Wayne worked together for several years before he bought Wayne’s share of the business
At the time of their 100 year birthday on December 14
a celebration which was tempered by the pandemic
“A lot has changed over the past 33 years and I am sure George would love to see what we are up to these days
“We are really proud of our history and with my son James looking after the business
he still did the books and helped Amanda in reception
Just as Barrie described his father as his inspiration
Barrie’s children now see him in the same vein
“Dad is the real hero of this business
the business prospered under his management,” James said in 2021
Barrie always acknowledged the loyalty of Roger Mallen
who has served Peel’s Cruises since leaving school over 40 years ago
along with their partners and his beloved grandchildren Millicent
joining the first lifesaving group in Lakes Entrance in 1956
For many years Peel’s Cruises sponsored the Lakes Entrance Cup at the Bairnsdale Race Course
being president of the Metung Bowls Club for some time and competing overseas on several occasions
Barrie was a dedicated Rotarian and a member in each town he lived
culminating in him receiving one of the highest honours
particularly the Big Blokes BBQ in Bairnsdale raising money for Prostate Cancer
after being successfully treated for this in his 60’s
he was delighted to meet Dermott Brereton at last year’s Big Boys BBQ
The enormous smile on Barrie’s face while chatting with Dermie is a memory his family will always cherish
Barrie was diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer in 2010 and received treatment on Level 7 at St Vincents Private
Such was his personality that when he walked in
Bairnsdale Classic Car Club secretary Peter Petrovich and president Grover Hurle with East Gippsland Shire mayor Cr John White holding the Australian flag and free breakfast banner
This year's breakfast kicks off at 8am at the Rotunda in Bairnsdale's Main Street this Sunday and will be followed by the presentation of awards
Bairnsdale Classic Car Club is looking forward in celebrating Australia Day this Sunday
The club is putting on a free breakfast for the community
along with support from East Gippsland Shire and East Gippsland Historic Automobile Club
It is a star-studded event with Lisa Giblin presenting the Welcome to Country ceremony
East Gippsland Brass accompanying Briony Camp singing the National Anthem
while the Bairnsdale Scouts will be doing the flag raising and Russell Heathcote will be expounding his expertise in bush poetry
There will be guest speakers and then the presentation of the Australia Day awards for the Bairnsdale district
Emiliqua East will finish with her expertise in whip cracking which made her an Australian Champion last year
“It is important to celebrate Australia Day as one
Look what we have achieved in the past 200 years,” club secretary Peter Petrovich said
“We are all part of the story and we have made Australia what it is today and we should be proud of that achievement
“That is why we celebrate Australia Day.”
Nicholas Carroll is full of concentration as his passenger enjoys the Bairnsdale Parkrun last Saturday morning
A massive field of 153 participants were out and about early in Bairnsdale Parkrun on Saturday morning
kilometre course along the magnificent Mitchell River
It was the 413th staging of the weekly event
Saturday attracting the third biggest field in the event’s history
whilst representatives of eight different clubs took part
Michael Elliman was first person identified across the line in a personal best time of 18 minutes and 14 seconds
whilst Mikhaila Bromwich led the woman home in a personal best of 20 minutes and 44 seconds
Others to run personal best times included Alex Brown (23.01)
Nicole Walsh (44.55) and Wai Ching Chan (45.59)
Running groups represented in the event were Crosbie Crew
Victorian Road Runners and the Derek Zoolander Centre For Kids Who Can’t Run Good
One of the graves featured in this Sunday's Bairnsdale Cemetery Walk is that of Walter Seehusen
Historians from the East Gippsland Historical Society will be conducting a tour at the Bairnsdale Cemetery on Sunday
The cemetery tour will take approximately 1-1.5 hours and will meander through the historic sections of the Bairnsdale Cemetery
Cemetery walks contribute to the fundraising for the society’s museum
The museum has a large collection of local historical artefacts from the East Gippsland district
providing a fascinating look into the past
There is also a large resource of historical documents and photographs that are accessible for those interested in researching local and family history
Society members are available to assist with research enquires
This cemetery tour will look at some of the district’s identities and stories of people who found their final resting place at the Bairnsdale Cemetery
One of the graves featured is for Walter Seehusen
He was trained as a professional artistic painter and was talented in landscape painting
Walter and Agneta had a daughter but she died at an early age
at the onset of the German-Danish war and emigrated to Australia
It was his intention to bring Agneta to Australia once he had established himself
Walter had met and was living with Irish-born Sarah Egan and they had a son
The family settled in Bairnsdale and stayed in Melbourne regularly
Walter created an Arts Union in about 1885
as well as exhibiting his work throughout the district on a regular basis
He was popular in the community and was involved in the local dramatic arts society
He was appointed the first master of arts at the Bairnsdale School of Mines in 1893
Walter also became an associate of the Victorian Arts Academy and the Victorian Arts Society with whom he mostly exhibited paintings of bush scenes
Walter wrote to his first wife in October 1878 and told her that he had been living with another woman for some years and now had a son
Walter asked her to either come and live with him or to separate
He would cover all the costs is she came to Australia and asked for her forgiveness
Agneta sailed to Australia in August 1879 arriving in Melbourne in September 1879 to join Walter and resume the relationship
Walter announced that he could not live with her any longer as he could not leave the other woman and his son
Agneta applied for divorce in December 1880
“the other woman” in 1882 after the divorce was granted
A few years later he married for the third time to Lucy Walker
the daughter of Robert Walker of Johnsonville
Lucy was aged 22 while he was 57 years old
It was a great performance by Nagle College winning the teams division at the recent Riviera Schools Clay Target event hosted by the Bairnsdale Field and Game Club
Michael Portelli and Cooper White both won their respective individual categories
The Nagle College clay target shooting team recently had an outstanding performance at the Riviera Schools Clay Target Competition
held at the Bairnsdale Field and Game Club
The event showcased exceptional talent and sportsmanship
with a number of students competing in their first-ever competition and performing exceptionally well
The team’s efforts was highlighted by Michael Portelli
who secured first place in the over 15s category and Cooper White
who was victorious in the under 15s division
Their dedication and skill were evident throughout the event
as in addition to the outstanding individual performances
Nagle College emerged as the overall winner in the teams event
reinforcing the strength and teamwork within the squad
Nagle College was grateful of the support of the Bairnsdale Field and Game Club for hosting an organised and successful competition
The school said the volunteers were incredible
offering guidance and support to students before the event
sharing their expertise and making all schools feel welcome
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Gippsland Agricultural Group is excited to return to Bairnsdale on Tuesday 18th February with the 2025 Gippsland Red Meat Conference
bringing the red meat industry together to tackle these big questions
With a fantastic lineup of presenters and topics
this year’s event promises actionable insights
• Simon Quilty (Global Agri Trends) & Robert Herrmann (Mecardo)
Can our favourite duo give us some positive news on the future livestock markets
• Professor Richard Eckard (University of Melbourne)
Learn about what we can do to reduce methane in our farming production systems
• Nathan Scott (Achieve Ag Solutions)
Are they dumb or are they just misunderstood
This session promises invaluable insights and strategies for maximizing your success in sheep production
Dr Enoch Bergman (Swans Vet)Learn what it takes to build a better cow
From optimising the success of heifers to reducing the risk of disease in your cattle herd
From the High Country to Mongolia and everywhere in between
Ben Young (Chiltern Park Angus)Learn to break the mold with fresh strategies for business growth
Discover the tools you need to sustain a productive and profitable red meat enterprise
Ken White & Chris Jehu Our Business of Farming experts will join us to present on profit drivers
and performance analysis within the red meat industry
Deanne Sykes & Jess Knight'I'm a Farmer Too'
This panel session will highlight the role women play within agriculture and shine a light on their invaluable contributions
recognising how they help drive innovation
Alfred Hackett & Amy Rogers This years virtual tour is based in the rolling hills of Gelantipy
Learn how Alfred and Amy are pushing the boundaries to improve their farming enterprise
All this and more will be available at the 2025 Gippsland Red Meat Conference
This conference offers a mix of expert advice
and inspirational stories designed to help you build resilience and improve profitability
Whether you're looking to enhance sustainability
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Alison Dwyer was a standout for the Redlegs in their first victory for the season over Drouin at the Morwell Recreation Reserve
Bairnsdale has opened its winning account in round two of Gippsland netball against Drouin at the Morwell Recreation Reserve
quickly racing to a handy 15-goal advantage by half time
with the defensive combo of Alison Dwyer and Sally Deller worked overtime to deny Drouin opportunities
The Hawks turned the tables in the third quarter
outscoring the Redlegs and at the final change there was only five goals separating the two teams
Both teams slogged it out in a hotly contested final quarter
Other good players for Bairnsdale included
In a very evenly contested “B” game in extreme heat
the Redlegs took the match right up to the Hawks
Drouin played its best netball in the second stanza
which was enough to see it edge home by eight goals
Bairnsdale were again out of the blocks quickly in “C” grade
off the back of accurate shooting and tight defence
with the Redlegs paying for some costly errors
winning the final three quarters and the match by nine goals
Chelsea Wellman and Heidi Allen leading the way for Bairnsdale
Bairnsdale sit on the top of ladder in the under 17s after two impressive victories
despite the Redlegs taking a couple of minutes to settle
once in the zone they put their feet down and dominated the game winning by 38 goals
Eve Sabell (25) and Mia Ballinger(19) very accurate up forward
while Marissa Warfe and Ava Langley (22) were hard working and the team was much strong for their opposition
The Redlegs struggled for early momentum in the under 15s having to dig deep to fight back and get into the game
a second quarter lapse seeing the lead out to eight at half time
There were some positive results achieved in the second half
joined in the best by Lily Preston and Roxie Jackson.An even first quarter in the under 13s Drouin pulled away late
opening up a three goal advantage by quarter time
Bairnsdale’s allowing the Hawks to hold an eight goal lead heading into the last quarter
Bairnsdale defenders worked hard but the young Redlegs were unable to reduce the margin
Zoe Nuttall and Violet Cloak leading the way for Bairnsdale
Bairnsdale’s next match will be a home fixture against Leongatha on April 26
“Excuse me,” says Bairnsdale Secondary College principal Tony Roberts
bending over to pick up a muesli bar wrapper flapping in the grass
Roberts is passionate about setting a good example to the 1158 students at the college
which sprawls across 1720 square metres at the western end of the East Gippsland regional centre and was once described on national TV as “Australia’s worst school”
Bairnsdale Secondary has turned its culture around
Bairnsdale Secondary College students (from left) Zane Marsh
Harriet Campbell and Tahlia Hare.Credit: Simon Schluter
some of its teachers were suicidal and some were battling post-traumatic stress disorder
amid claims of educators being shoulder-charged or pushed down stairs by students
Learning specialist Kelly Mills had just started her first job at Bairnsdale Secondary in mid-2019 when a report on the school aired on A Current Affair
even disabled at what could be Australia’s worst school,” the reporter read
But Mills has seen things change since the school was singled out for unwanted national attention
“Sometimes it feels like when I come to work every day
it’s a different place to what it was six years ago,” Mills said
The school had been battling a bad reputation even before ACA’s story
former principal Trudie Nagle told The Age
bushfires were ripping through East Gippsland
killing four people and destroying hundreds of houses
The army and firefighters took over the school as a base
They could use it as a place to rest and be fed,” she said
The Australian Defence Force set up an operation base at Bairnsdale Secondary College in 2020.Credit: Joe Armao
[the fires] almost kind of brought the school community together a little bit.”
The 1158-strong student cohort is diverse: more than 100 are Indigenous
an increasing number don’t speak English as a first language
and many come from varying degrees of socioeconomic disadvantage
Students travel from as far as Dargo and Lakes Entrance to attend the school
Nagle and Roberts – who was a senior education improvement leader with the Department of Education at the time – put together the 2019-2023 School Strategic Plan
NAPLAN and Compass data to build a dispiriting picture
They found student attitudes towards the school were the worst in Victoria and “teacher efficacy” was in the lowest 10 per cent in the state
Defence force personnel at Bairnsdale Secondary College during the fires in 2020.Credit: Joe Armao
Students had low expectations of themselves and the school
Compass data showed attendance in individual classes among the lowest levels in Victoria
and capable students entering year 7 had become failing students by year 10
Staff felt “helpless” and had become despondent due to poor student outcomes
“It was most definitely the most challenging school that I’ve ever worked in,” said Nagle
“Changing a culture is the most difficult thing to do at any school.”
who took over as principal at the start of 2024
After the smoke had cleared from Black Summer
Nagle ran community round tables at the school
She and Roberts opened the school up to community criticism
acknowledged their failures and were collaborative about a way forward
Principal Tony Roberts says “ground zero” is for every student to have someone who believes in them
as she rebuilt the “struggling” welfare team and recruited staff with a focus on teaching and learning
A positive behaviour program was established
and the school cracked down on poor classroom behaviour
to be very clear and consistent in what we were doing and the way we were approaching things
you never do that sort of work without upsetting some people,” the former principal said
but the culture began to build and change.”
Australian Catholic University Associate professor of educational leadership Paul Kidson said tensions were felt keenly in regional school communities where people could not avoid each other
He said behavioural issues continued to be a huge issue in schools and that parents were increasingly prepared to be abusive
threatening or aggressive towards teachers or principals
But understanding that some parents held trauma from their schooldays could help in restoring relationships
not everything’s going quite as well as we would like
and now we need to fix some stuff up’,” Kidson said
because it’s naive to assume that any school and every school has no problem.”
The state Department of Education back the efforts of Nagle and Roberts with “intensive school support”
which helps plan strategy and turn plans into actions
The program has given Bairnsdale access to experts in things like transformative leadership and connected the school with high-performing colleges across the state
There is capacity for 225 schools to get intensive school support between 2024 and 2027
“While we have improved since 2019 we have a long way to go
and we need to engage in that process with rigour and our eyes and ears open to better ways of doing things,” Roberts said
Bairnsdale almost doubled the number of year 12 students accepted into university between 2019 and 2024
as well as the number of year 12 students accepted into apprenticeships from 29 to 58
It’s like a tidal wave that’s gaining momentum.”
Maddison Flynn is a senior student leader and is proud to be a student at Bairnsdale
“We’ve come a long way since that initial [TV report]
Flynn said relationships between students and teachers were now respectful
and she herself benefited from the school’s wellbeing team
“It really helped me want to stay in school,” she said
In a cacophony of teenage quips, with ping pong balls flying and students grabbing bread rolls for lunch, Will Maynard, an operations officer at Indigenous empowerment organisation Clontarf, describes how the program helps engage Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander boys to finish school
Students names are listed in black on a whiteboard
with percentages for attendance next to them
If they meet their benchmarks they get rewards like going on school camps
said he wouldn’t have made it so far in his schooling without the program
“If I had a bad day they encouraged me to keep going
They just encourage me to be the best version of myself.”
While he has zero tolerance for physical violence or bullying
there is a symbiotic relationship between wellbeing and learning
That starts with every student here feeling like an adult believes in them
Learning specialist Mills said teachers weren’t just someone students saw in their school day
“You are someone who is going to have an impact on them for the rest of their life,” she said
“We work in education because we want what’s best for the students
So if you just keep that at the front of your mind … we are living proof you can turn it around.”
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter
\\u201CExcuse me,\\u201D says Bairnsdale Secondary College principal Tony Roberts
which sprawls across 1720 square metres at the western end of the East Gippsland regional centre and was once described on national TV as \\u201CAustralia\\u2019s worst school\\u201D
even disabled at what could be Australia\\u2019s worst school,\\u201D the reporter read
\\u201CSometimes it feels like when I come to work every day
it\\u2019s a different place to what it was six years ago,\\u201D Mills said
The school had been battling a bad reputation even before ACA\\u2019s story
\\u201CThe general community didn\\u2019t have faith
didn\\u2019t trust the school,\\u201D she said
\\u201CBefore I even had the keys to the school
They could use it as a place to rest and be fed,\\u201D she said
[the fires] almost kind of brought the school community together a little bit.\\u201D
an increasing number don\\u2019t speak English as a first language
Nagle and Roberts \\u2013 who was a senior education improvement leader with the Department of Education at the time \\u2013 put together the 2019-2023 School Strategic Plan
They found student attitudes towards the school were the worst in Victoria and \\u201Cteacher efficacy\\u201D was in the lowest 10 per cent in the state
Staff felt \\u201Chelpless\\u201D and had become despondent due to poor student outcomes
\\u201CIt was most definitely the most challenging school that I\\u2019ve ever worked in,\\u201D said Nagle
\\u201CChanging a culture is the most difficult thing to do at any school.\\u201D
as she rebuilt the \\u201Cstruggling\\u201D welfare team and recruited staff with a focus on teaching and learning
you never do that sort of work without upsetting some people,\\u201D the former principal said
but the culture began to build and change.\\u201D
\\u201CIt\\u2019s a courageous leader to say
not everything\\u2019s going quite as well as we would like
and now we need to fix some stuff up\\u2019,\\u201D Kidson said
because it\\u2019s naive to assume that any school and every school has no problem.\\u201D
The state Department of Education back the efforts of Nagle and Roberts with \\u201Cintensive school support\\u201D
\\u201CWhile we have improved since 2019 we have a long way to go
and we need to engage in that process with rigour and our eyes and ears open to better ways of doing things,\\u201D Roberts said
It\\u2019s like a tidal wave that\\u2019s gaining momentum.\\u201D
\\u201CWe\\u2019ve come a long way since that initial [TV report]
and she herself benefited from the school\\u2019s wellbeing team
\\u201CIt really helped me want to stay in school,\\u201D she said
with ping pong balls flying and students grabbing bread rolls for lunch
an operations officer at Indigenous empowerment organisation describes how the program helps engage Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander boys to finish school
said he wouldn\\u2019t have made it so far in his schooling without the program
\\u201CIf I had a bad day they encouraged me to keep going
They just encourage me to be the best version of myself.\\u201D
That\\u2019s the ground zero,\\u201D he said
Learning specialist Mills said teachers weren\\u2019t just someone students saw in their school day
\\u201CYou are someone who is going to have an impact on them for the rest of their life,\\u201D she said
\\u201CWe work in education because we want what\\u2019s best for the students
So if you just keep that at the front of your mind \\u2026 we are living proof you can turn it around.\\u201D
Start the day with a summary of the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories
East Gippsland Ceramic Group is gathering its creative and diverse ceramic pieces together to show them at an exhibition called Out of the Kiln at the Bairnsdale Butter Factory Art Space during November-December
The exhibition artists are members of a community group that has been active for more than 30 years at what is now The Hub
The exhibition showcases a variety of styles and approaches
Some pieces are hand built while others are made on the wheel
Members abilities range from new to the craft to very experienced
Opening times are Monday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday 10am-3pm while Friday is open from 1pm-6pm
Two of the busiest intersections in Bairnsdale
Victoria are set for major safety upgrades to improve traffic flow
following a large population boost over the last decade
A new $9.73 million dual-lane roundabout will be built at the intersection of the Princes Highway East and McEacharn Street
under the $316.3 million Princes Highway Corridor project
Additional safety upgrades will include extra lanes with widened access
safety barriers and upgraded street lighting on the Princes Highway
There will also be intersection improvements at the Wy Yung Road (Bullumwaal Road) and Howitt Avenue
with both the Federal and Victorian governments funding $3.26 million towards the project
This project is funded under the Federal Government’s $2.965 billion Road Safety Program
The works will create secure crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists
and improve access to the Mitchell River Flats walking track
The upgrades will help accommodate Bairnsdale’s growing population
and ease congestion as number of vehicles on the town’s road network is predicted to grow by a further 27 per cent by 2036
with roadworks expected to be completed by mid-2025
There will be changed traffic conditions to enable construction
and every effort will be made to minimise the impact to road users as we deliver these important safety projects
Melissa Horne Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety said upgrades are being installed for the Bairnsdale community
“We’re investing in and delivering these intersection upgrades to make it easier and safer for the community to get to where they need to go – whether that’s to work
Major construction has kicked off on the Suburban Rail Loop in Victoria
ahead of tunnelling commencing at the start of..
An intricate timber net structure has been completed on the northern portal of Victoria’s West Gate Tunnel project
Applications for the Western Australian Government’s Zero Emissions Vehicle rebate scheme
which has so far paid back over $41 million..
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Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says the cost of purchasing native vegetation offsets for trees and native grasses is placing an enormous cost burden on local projects
including the planned extension of the Bairnsdale Aerodrome runway
Extreme environmental laws are hampering Gippsland infrastructure projects
risking lives and adding to the cost of living
Mr Chester blamed the excessive restrictions on clearing native vegetation on transport projects for adding up to 30 per cent to the cost of construction
“In the middle of a cost of living crisis
Gippslanders are paying more and receiving less from the Labor Party at state and federal level
particularly when it comes to much-needed upgrades to our transport network,” Mr Chester told Parliament
“We are expected to drive cars that are roadworthy
but the government is not providing roads that are carworthy
and it’s costing lives and money in regional areas
“On top of the bureaucratic incompetence and a lack of urgency by the relevant Ministers
the cost of infrastructure projects in regional Victoria is blowing out by millions of dollars every week
thanks to ridiculous environmental laws which place a huge cost burden on public authorities
“The safety of the community is falling a distant second to the need to purchase ‘native vegetation offsets’ and comply with stringent environmental regulations
even when roads or airport extensions are occurring within the footprint of the land specifically reserved for that purpose
more than 30 per cent of the cost of a project is being absorbed by compliance with state and federal environmental laws.”
Mr Chester said the most recent examples of environmental laws adding to the cost of projects included moving the alignment of the Princes Highway duplication works
upgrading Mallacoota-Genoa Road and the Bairnsdale Aerodrome runway extension
“All of these projects have been hit with extra costs because of native grasses or trees being removed from inside the area reserved for the purpose of the road or airport in the first place,” Mr Chester said
“It’s even more extraordinary in Victoria now the Labor Party has banned the harvesting of native hardwood timber on public land
“Not satisfied with an illogical decision to ban a sustainable and 100 per cent renewable industry
the State Government is still requiring more land to be locked up in vegetation offsets if a road authority has to remove trees to widen a highway.”
Mr Chester said the delays to projects could cost lives in the future
“A planned extension and widening of the runway at the Bairnsdale Aerodrome is on hold because native grass was detected alongside the existing pavement,” he said
“It could cost the local ratepayers several million dollars they don’t have to buy a separate piece of land as a vegetation offset in order for the project to proceed
the airport extension is required to save human lives in an emergency situation
the Bairnsdale Aerodrome was transformed into one of the busiest airports in the country with emergency services and the Australian Defence Force flying in personnel and supplies to help the community at a time of enormous need
the Bairnsdale Aerodrome won’t be fit-for-purpose in future natural disasters
thanks to some native grass you can find in a paddock next door
“This environmental madness is tying up projects across our state
and taxpayers are footing the bill for infrastructure
which is costing more than necessary and running years late on planned construction timeframes.”