Dawn before the dark
December 21, 2016
This is a tricky one Gill, but here are my ideas. People coming from outside Bass Coast often speak of how friendly the local people are. Let's keep being nice and smile at all comers. Let us also assist in the education process, adding new information where we can. For example, when we hear of 'Asian countries where leaders traditionally get away with outrageous things,' let us enlighten further by pointing out the fact that non-Asian countries such as Italy, France, The Netherlands, Belgium, England, Spain, Portugal and the U.S.A. have a history of producing leaders that get away with outrageous things- Italy was the first country to air bomb a civilian population.
An Age of Enlightenment based on reason and cultured discussion seems a remote possibility given that what is currently being passed off as discussion or debate is mainly opinion fuelled by fear. Geoff Ellis is on the money with his thoughts. We may have to descend to a very dark place indeed before reason can be permitted take its rightful place. We need to become innovative in how we present our case, given the ineffectiveness of conventional logic as a tool of persuasion. We also need to be prepared for some nasty, sometimes vicious backlash when we speak out. Look at what the last round of Bass Coast councillors were subjected to whilst attempting to serve our community.
Let's keep brainstorming this one. We may surprise ourselves, or we may feel a little less isolated or alone in our concerns. Thanks for raising the subject, Gill. Long live the 'fair go'.
John Coldebella, Wonthaggi
December 19, 2016
I must commend and complement Gill Heal - her deftly worded discussion exemplifies the raison d'être for the Bass Coast Post. My personal thought on Trump-ism is that technological progress is remorselessly linear while social progress is more a pendulum that counter swings creating the 'two steps forward, one step back.'
Achieving liberté, égalité, fraternit is always easier during times of abundance. When times are tough Darwinian instincts come to the fore and the angry, disgruntled mob is the easiest beast for a leader to loosely harness. Clan against clan or nation against nation? It's just a matter of scale; it's always the other that we fear.
So, as the world races into Ad-Hocracy how can we dampen the swing? France tried and they extruded Napoleon. I agree that the hardest way forward is the most productive: To be honest and true to our values while actually listening to each other. And keep at it.
Geoff Ellis, Krowera
$17m Cowes centre shelved
December 20, 2016
To the Visionaries and to the Pragmatists who were elected as our representatives on Council for the next four years.
Tourism versus Arts and Culture?
Aquatic Centre or Cowes Cultural Precinct?
Cowes Jetty Triangle development or San Remo Foreshore? The list is endless and it shouldn't be an either/or situation.
We need to find the right balance between economic development, employment, tourism, conservation and the environment, arts and culture, health. All these are vitally important 'game changer projects' for Phillip Island in the future.
Yes it IS difficult, but the plan has been well and truly documented in the "Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economic Strategy 2035: Growing Tourism" which was adopted by Council in August 2016.
Phyllis Papps
December 19, 2016
After a vicious election campaign based on distortion and outright lies, Stand Alone have slapped the face of their many supporters and consigned the Cowes Cultural Centre redevelopment to the scrapheap.
Our previous Council had a fully funded vision; they recognised the need for the evolution of Cowes beyond a cultural back water reliant on penguins and motorsports. The centrepiece of their vision was the Cowes Activity Centre Plan and the redevelopment of the Cowes Cultural Centre.
Culture brings money. Money brings jobs, economic security and prosperity. A Cultural centre had a demonstrated economic benefit of 12.7:1. With the current Council obsessed with economic benefit above all else, what are they proposing? Continuing to fund the economically and environmentally unsustainable Inverloch tip? Aquatic centres that will be an economic black hole to the community, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars/annum? I look forward to seeing the economic benefit argument of any proposed new projects. If they do not stack up better that 12.7:1, there will be hell to pay.
It is time for Stand Alone Councillor Stephen Fullarton and the Mayor to explain their actions to the people who elected them.
There are over 250 businesses in Cowes. There are currently 60 businesses for sale or lease in Cowes; there are over 20 vacant shops. This is a clear signal that Cowes is an economic basket case.
We need advocacy for business in Cowes right now.
It is time for all businesses to unite and send a clear message to the Councillors that the community deserve better.
Robbie J Viglietti, Cowes
December 19, 2016
All councillors, across the entire Bass Coast Shire, expressed their independent views as to their decision in relation to the deferral of the detail drawings of the Cowes Cultural Centre at last Wednesday’s Council meeting. The majority of Councillors felt that the timing was not right to commit the ratepayers of Bass Coast to over $800k of architectural drawings, when there are still uncertainties in respect to the ultimate plan relating to the transit hub and proposed positioning of the aquatic centre.
The good news for the residents and visitors to Bass Coast is the $2.3m Cowes Jetty Triangle upgrade proceeding to design stage, and hopefully commencement of the works later in 2017.
The decision at the council meeting last Wednesday, was to defer the detailed design of the CCC and transit hub, until a further report containing options to proceed was presented to council. Such a report would include details of possible funding sources from both Federal and State govts. and likelihood of success.
We have many major projects planned across the shire, and each will proceed as and when appropriate funding is secured.
Pamela Rothfield, Bass Coast Mayor
December 18, 2016
Shame to those Island (and non-Island) councillors that did not vote to support such an important piece of Phillip Island (and need I say it) COWES history.
Here we had an opportunity to put our community first and set the tune to inspire and encourage further economic investment in Cowes but yet again, we are to be retarded for another generation ... until Council is refreshed with people who see the true future and vision for Cowes and Phillip Island rather than building their own factional stand-alone interests.
I regret we have at least 4 years before that change could happen - and who knows what more damage will be done in the meantime.
Rob Easton
Like many others, I feel shattered that despite the passion, committment and hard work of the working group, former councillors and council officers, the majority of the new councillors have virtually killed this project by refusing to allocate a mere $806,150 to allow the next stage of the redevelopment of the Cowes Cultural Centre and Transit Centre to proceed. This amount would have enabled the preparation of detailed specifications of the design and the opportunity to reapply for federal funding. The fact that these were not provided in the first submission for federal funding for the project was cited as a major reason for its failure. The Council report states:
‘Formal feedback from the Federal government indicated our application was strong and of high quality but could be strengthened in a couple of key areas. In particular, detailed design documentation is needed to strengthen and improve Council’s chances of receiving funding. Detailed design would meet the challenge of demonstrating the projects are “shovel ready”. All projects above $2M that received funding from NSRF have completed detailed design’.
A second application in the next round is obviously now out of the question. As the report also showed, the application for state government funding – (1) Regional Development Fund ($4.75M) and (2) Living Libraries Infrastructure Fund ($.75M) together with the Bendigo Bank grant of $.25M are (were) still ‘live’.
The supposed reason for not proceeding with the plans is council’s lack of finances. But the concept plans have been drawn up and paid for - only to be shelved alongside those produced in the past. In the meantime, the repairs for the ageing current centre which were placed on hold, will now need to be addressed. How much will they cost?
One councillor’s response to the loss of the motion to proceed with the design was ‘That was easy!’ Indeed. Considerably easier than spending hundreds of hours in planning, consultation with stakeholders and the community and writing lengthy funding applications.
I would like to express my thanks and appreciation to the former councillors who attempted to finally get this project off the ground and particularly to council officers David Elder and Robyne Young for their integrity, hard work and commitment to the vision for a marvellous centrepiece and community facility for Phillip Island. My commiserations go to those community members who have tried so hard so often but to no avail to make this happen. I'm not sure about Phillip Island standing alone - I think we are standing still.
Dr Marian Quigley
It seems disappointing that the Island Councillors did not vote in unity on this issue; I'd have thought they would have got together before the meeting and adopted a unified position.
I spoke briefly to Steve Fullarton during the week and he said he was keen to get funding for the jetty and foreshore area upgrade.
Whatever; between the Foreshore, Cultural Centre and Aquatic Centre the local Councillors need a unified position or they'll be rolled by the majority in Wonthaggi.
Mike Cleeland
I am utterly gutted and shocked at the Council's decision to shelve (indefinitely?) the Cowes Cultural and Civic Precinct (CCCP) project.
Those Councillors associated with the Phillip Island Stand Alone Movement have lost all legitimacy to be the 'alternative voice' for the best interests of the Island. For years there was continual campaigning from these people regarding the alleged lack of support and funding from the Bass Coast Council for the good people of Phillip Island.
The CCCP if implemented would have provided the residents and visitors a first class facility including a much needed expanded library, appropriate space for the local historical society and affiliated organisations, arts and cultural centre for all situated along one of the busiest thoroughfares on the Island.
As the former Bass Coast Principal Librarian employed by the West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation I would like to pass on my thanks and support to my former colleague Lucy Nuttal, Cowes Library Branch Manager and David Elder from Bass Coast Council for their tireless efforts in promoting the benefits of this valuable project to the community. I tip my hat to you both for your professionalism, enthusiasm and quiet determination under sometimes very trying circumstances. Lucy - you are a credit to our profession as librarians and information custodians and to David you are a credit to local government professionalism and commitment to the community. To both please do not feel downhearted. Continue the good fight.
To those associated with the Stand Alone movement, I don't feel contempt or anger, just sadness and disappointment. You could have underlined your cause by supporting this worthy project but now I feel that you will be the subject of increasing scepticism and questioning of your 'real' reasons for existence. You are now irrelevant.
Steven Grant Haby, Former Bass Coast Principal Librarian
December 17, 2016
What a blow for many residents of PI who have been excited by this project and the possibility of a reasonable place for the writers group and film club to met, and a place to showcase in winter when so many places appear to shut down.
I am so disappointed.
Nerida Melsmith
As one who has worked with many people to support the visionary development of the Cultural Centre, I share the disappointment with others, such as Anne Davie and Michael Whelan, at the decision of the Bass Coast Council not to proceed with the project. In the long run Phillip Island will be the poorer for this gutless decision.
John Adam
The decision of the new Bass Coast Council not to continue the journey and commitment to the redevelopment of the Cowes Cultural Centre,has hit the hundreds of supporters of the Project like the proverbial ton of bricks.
Since the first architect's design of a new Centre in 1993, there has been 6 other designs with community consultation and attempts to bring a Project into fruition. All have cost money, time and resulted in so much disappointment because of an inability to make a decision.
But with the 150th celebration of Closer Settlement of Phillip Island in 2018, the redevelopment project seemed to be absolutely the right time to have another try.
So the latest exercise commenced over 2 years ago with a unanimous commitment by the then Council, an architect appointed and a Working Group formed. Many Councillors and Officers attended the numerous, ongoing meetings of the Working Group and sessions with the architect. Concept plans were drawn up and considered by the many groups that will use the building. These continued for many months until all the groups were able to say, this is going to be ok, go for it.
Submissions were sent to the relevant government funding bodies and it was believed this would continue until these were successful.
But,alas, this Council feels this is just a step too far.
For me personally, I am full of sadness that this magnificent project, to which so many in good faith, gave so much time and passion, has been denied yet again.
The dream of a place in the Cowes township that would be a show piece for our creativity, our history, our precious environment and a place for people remains again, a dream.
Ann Davie
Missed opportunity
December 17, 2016
An $800,000 expenditure without any commitment or guarantee of a government grant??
Although I am in favour of the redevelopment of the Cowes Cultural centre, our limited resources should be directed to projects that can be achieved within the budget.
Once having addressed the many outstanding infrastructure needs of the community it would then be timely for council to revisit and invest in the cultural centre project.
Ian Samuel
Once again the wonthaggi city council makes decision's for wonthaggi, business as usual
Leigh Phillips
Leigh, it was actually 2 of the 3 ISLAND ward Councillors who stopped progress on this project. If they had voted yes, there would have been a majority
Albie
A very sad decision for progress on Phillip Island. All the consultations, submissions to council, local discussions on why we need a reasonable venue in Cowes gone. What a shame.
Lorrie Read
Bass Coast Post
December 18, 2016
Thank you so much for compiling and publishing the Bass Coast Post. I really look forward to receiving it on Saturdays and enjoy all of the articles. They are diverse, well written and interesting, and often fascinating.
I hope you have a lovely Christmas and New Year, and a relaxing and fulfilling summer.
Alison Ribush, Ventnor
Many thanks for your great publication, in the absence of any balanced reporting with either of the local newspapers I always look forward to reading Bass Coast Post. I am very pleased you will be back next year, I am a firm believer in local government and look forward to some interesting articles. Have a happy Christmas and a relaxing New Year.
Lorrie Read
Congratulations on this production & the ongoing work of all to protect your beautiful area. I have shared your wonderful photos on Facebook.
Wishing you all the best for the coming year.
Pat Fraser
The Wheatleys of Grantville
December 4, 2016
As a long-time resident of The Gurdies/Grantville area, I was very interested to read Tony Hughes’ article on Don and Irene Wheatley and the Grantville they knew growing up. I, for one, learned lots I didn’t know, for instance, that saw millers camped on the Grantville beach and what living conditions were like for residents living in Grantville in the 1920s, ‘30s and ‘40s. Many thanks to Don and Irene for sharing their stories and to Wonthaggi and District Historical members Tony Hughes and Irene Williams and others for collecting our oral history and also presenting it in such a readable way before it is lost to us.
Meryl Tobin, The Gurdies
More or less
December 4, 2016
I enjoyed Tim’s further reflections on our road to oblivion as an individual, as a society, as a memory. The trap is set and welcoming into the desolate world of mindlessness where we lose our ability to think or create, but remain only to observe, be observed and compliant.
Ian Samuel
Volunteers needed
December 3, 2016
Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show runs on volunteers’ time and involvement and with that in mind the Show Society is looking for some lovely, time generous people to give us a hand culminating on Saturday January 14 and Sunday January 15.
If I haven’t already annoyed you, please let me know if you can help.
The main areas required are in the exhibition pavilion from Tuesday onwards ( we judge prior to the show being open), the cattle arena on Saturday and the horse arena on Saturday and Sunday. We also need people to man the gates and runners.
I can find people a job if they want to be involved ... we feed and water you and you get a free ticket - please come along and enjoy yourselves.
Rosemary Loughnan - Show Society Secretary
basscoastagshow@hotmail.com
The future starts now
November 22, 2016
The first time I heard Mikhaela speak publicly was at an anti-desalination rally. She was but a child, however that didn't stop me from being impressed. I second all previous comments.
John Coldebella, Wonthaggi
Well said Mikhaela - good on you for standing and I hope you'll try again next time around.
Marian Quigley
I was extremely impressed by this article. It shows wisdom and passion. The future will certainly be different and you are correct, it needs to be planned for now. Well done.
Joan James
November 19, 2016
Mikhaela, I so enjoyed your freshness and determination when I heard you speak. I very much hope that you will continue your fight, that we'll hear your voice ringing out again in support of youth, the environment, Climate Change - and the future. Hang in there!
Jane Westworth
I think we have missed out on a talented councillor here. A breath of fresh air,someone with imagination and wisdom beyond their years. One could say a lateral thinker in the bogged down barren field of local council. Don't go anywhere Mikhaela. We need people like you.
Bob Middleton, Wonthaggi
Well done Mikhaela. I do hope the new Councillors are taking notice.
Jan Fleming
I have had absolute admiration for you and especially after seeing you and hearing you at various Candidates evenings prior to the L.G. elections. Keep up your fantastic enthusiasm and great work. Age should never be an issue.
Phyllis Papps
A woman for all seasons
November 19, 2016
Great story Gill and congratulations to Carolyn in what she is achieving on her property and in her life.
Nola Smith, Cape Paterson
Sam’s pears
October 10, 2016
I enjoyed the story of Sam Anderson's early farming ventures at Bass. I found his choice of crop interesting, since pears generally store and keep less well than, say, apples. Was choosing to grow them due to his personal liking for the fruit, or did it give him a marketing edge because there were less other growers?
A point which also puzzles me: in reports of early settler farming that I've read, there are few mentions of honey bees. You would think that keeping honey bees would make crops like pears much more productive, and that yields in the presence of only native bees might be much lower. Does any reader know if honey bees were routinely kept by early settlers for the benefit of their crops? Was their presence simply taken for granted and so not mentioned specifically in descriptions of early farming?
Kit Sleeman
Paperbark town
November 9, 2016
Thanks Terri for reminding Post readers the value of swamp paperbark. Anderson Inlet Landcare also appreciate the profit that paperbark brings to our farms. As well to the world environment.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
Olga’s story
November 9, 2016
I just wanted to thank Joan for her brilliant portrayal of one of the loveliest women I have ever known. Joan you highlighted Olga's strengths and helped us to catch a glimpse of the marvellous woman that she is. Thank you.
Jacqui Paulson, Wonthaggi
Going, going, gone
November 9, 2016
Very good “passing out” article from Phil Wright. He had his ups and downs, but there was no question he was there for the good of the shire and its citizens. So well done, Phil, go for an extra hundred or so surfs.
His article very much exposes the myth that the two new “pressure groups” had no links to each other, not to mention a very compliant local media.
Oh well, up here at The Gurdies, if Inverloch/San Remo and Cowes become the next overdeveloped Mornington Peninsula, as sad as I will be about it all, (fond memories of San Remo in the 50s and 60s and Ma Normington’s 2/9d burgers with the lot), so be it. We’ll still have our P&Q “up here” as the “caffe latte set” build their holiday “McMansions” “down there”. However, in the case of San Remo/Cowes, only when the Phillip Island Road is not banked back at peak times to Anderson. (They can always come down in the middle of one of our bracing winters!)
Great that Clare, Michael Whelan and Geoff Ellis got in, perhaps Bruce Kent too. But the rest of them are going to make life very hard for the first three on good environmental and social issues/values.
Kevin Chambers, The Gurdies
November 8, 2016
As a frequent scrutineer, post-mortem opiner and armchair campaign manager, it is delightfully novel to have my numbers publicly crunched by someone else. The Mayne Report has disappointed me greatly with its flippant, supercilious treatment of Bass Coast, focusing solely on one ward and giving more prominence to a song review than any insightful analysis. Some of its gender-biased narrative could be considered slanderous.
In relation to the Ward boundaries, I was one of several people who objected in the VEC review and, having read all the submissions, the lack of focus of the council effort shines out. I believe that a strongly mounted case based on factual arguments supporting the status quo could have enabled retention of the seven-ward structure and saved the shire the cost of two extra councillors.
I would also like to point out that the number of votes not cast would have elected a councillor in their own right. The fact that so many people voted for NOBODY raises concerns about engagement, process and information dissemination that need to be addressed over the next four years. It also reinforces the need for councillors to work closely with foreshore, resident and ratepayer, farmer and all the community groups to engage the people of Bass Coast in a positive manner.
In relation the Phil Wright's inquisition of Western Port, I feel obliged to challenge subjective editorialising of immutable numbers. I also find this cursory mention of Western Port Ward emblematic of a bigger picture, as is the discussion of the intricacies of the poorly understood 'exhausting preferential proportional' voting system.
The VEC figures record that Ellis "started out" 209 votes behind B. Drew. B Drew then extended that lead by 41 with the Le Serve surplus and fell back by seven with the B Kent surplus.
I find reference to "excess votes" inappropriate as all the quota from both successful Candidates was distributed at a reduced value (0.13448033 and 0.0022388); similarly, I find the "doing very well from..." derides the fact that B. Drew was already in front on his own merit.
Distribution of A Lamer's ballots reduced B Drew's lead by 61. Distribution of M. Barlow's votes put G. Ellis in the lead though by 82 votes after the final distribution. Well more than 2000 people did not vote.
As for a candidate being "more suited to the Bunurong Ward" in his review, I note no mention of any other candidate (in any ward) being "being more suited" to another ward though I could suggest a couple who may have fared better in a different ward. As someone who attended many meetings with Mr Lamers over the last few months I consider that he would be a worthy representative in any Ward.
I also feel that the implied attribution of a candidate's vote tally to their gender ignores the hard work and sensible policies espoused by those candidates. I agree vehemently in regard to the need to diversify representation and suspect that the treatment of Former Prime Minister Gillard is impacting the gender balance.
Geoff Ellis, newly elected councillor for Western Port Ward
Election count
October 30, 2016
Thank you for your expert coverage and prompt delivery of the (perhaps devastating news) that only one existing Councillor has been returned. We have to wonder about the experience we threw out the window and the people and their agendas we brought in to govern our neglected part of the State of Victoria.
I sincerely hope these newly elected people don’t get big heads with the power now bestowed upon them and actually have the balls to make changes for the whole of the Shire, confront those not doing their bit, whether they are big, bad or ugly and show the ratepayers that they did actually deserve to get voted in.
Shelley Applebee
Just a vote of thanks for your excellent coverage of the election results. Congratulations to the winners and commiserations to the losers. I am sad that Neil Rankine was not re-elected but glad councillor Le Serve was.
Frank Schooneveldt, Inverloch
The results of the Bass Coast Shire local government, were both a little surprising and disappointing. Those affiliated with the so called action groups are going to have a lot to answer for over the next four years as the panel of nine councillors they have elected try and work together and reach agreement on anything.
The choice of name for the Bass Coast Ratepayers and Residents Association was the most disappointing part of the whole election campaign. They only really represented approx. 360 people, of which 90% came from Wonthaggi or Inverloch, so they were not truly representative.
As the old saying goes, ‘Be careful what you wish for’, well two groups have almost got control of the council, but will they ever agree on anything.
Very disappointing result for most, I suspect.
Roger Clark, Grantville
Thanks for the effort
October 25, 2016
Just thought I would send you a note to say how much I enjoy the Bass Coast Post.
Naturally not all articles are of interest to me, but the ones that are just so enjoyable. I particularly like the ones on the history of the area.
I guess my interest is sparked because I grew up 'just up the road' at Kooweerup and know the area these stories are set in.
Anyway, thank you for your efforts and rest assured they are much appreciated.
Peter Boekel
Beyond the call of duty
October 25, 2016
As someone who has just completed a six month job interview for the position so elegantly detailed, I am compelled to complement the Bass Coast Post. However, that is akin to pinning a medal on Everest.
Since moving to Wattle Bank in 2011 I have been informed, entertained, often delighted and occasionally saddened by the articles within and the “by the people, for the people” nature of the enterprise. “We owe you” is certainly reciprocated.
B.t.c.o.d. is the most comprehensive and enjoyable risk assessment that I have read. It leaves very little unsaid.
In discussion of people standing for pet projects I often cite the ACT election of 1989. The No Self-Government Party fielded a number of candidates solely committed to ending the embryonic independence of the Territory. Three of their candidates were elected and they went on to play important roles in the governance of the Territory.
There are many issues that need urgent attention but engaging the silent majority and building on “what’s strong rather than what’s wrong” should be a long-term consideration, especially if the current level of conversation across the community continues.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
Independent Candidate for Western Port Ward
October 24, 2016
The same has applied to every Bass Coast election since 2005 and possibly earlier. I recall vividly the sustained attacks on the previous CEO 12 years ago and some of the most vicious and unfair attacks on individual Councillors in each Council since.
One small point. The first change to the by-laws to exclude leashed dogs from the beach was taken without explanation prior to the decision being made at the Council table. I can’t recall any one who fought against this decision saying they “wanted to unleash dogs unto the beach”.
Veronica Dowman, Bass Coast councillor, 2005-12
October 24, 2016
Thank you, Catherine for so eloquently expressing the truth.
In every case with which I approached the past council, I was listened to with respect, asked for evidence and detail and accommodated after presenting rational arguments. It was this past council that added an extra fortnightly session in order to consult with community more adequately. All who wished could come to those sessions to address the council and discuss their concerns.
I found, especially the Mayor, Jordan Crugnale, a hard-working, intelligent, dedicated person who worked 'beyond the call of duty' for the benefit of our community. Much gratitude to you Jordan.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the past council; the hard, effective work of councillors as well as the provisions of ongoing opportunities for consultation with the Bass Coast community.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
October 23, 2016
We thank you Catherine for your brilliant and insightful article regarding the forthcoming elections here in the Bass Coast Shire.
Your objectivity and understanding of all the political issues is refreshing in light of all the other political rhetoric and spin that has been floating around for the past few months.
It's probably hard for you to imagine what a great impact 'Bass Coast Post' has had in terms of unbiased reporting during the past few years. The fact that you then let readers decide what is truth and what is pure self interest, is worth its weight in gold.
The community congratulates you and applauds you for your courage, determination and being a brilliant journalist and member of the community.
Phyllis Papps, Rhyll
Thank you Catherine, for an insightful, reasoned, witty and gracious treatment of a vexed issue. We can only hope that this next group of councillors has the collective intelligence and perseverance to step through and around the unending array of land mines, leaving the Shire in better condition than it inherited - as I believe the departing council has done!
Maddy Harford, West Creek
Great insight Catherine, into the difficult job of being a Councillor and fairly representing the electorate.
Robin Dzedins, Lynbrook
Happy times
Happiness comes from positive interactions with family, friends, neighbours and occasionally total strangers. Be alert for any opportunities which may arise, avoid commercial media as much as possible. If you’r not happy today, be content with a balanced life.
Frank Coldebella, Wonthaggi
Far off the superhighway
Nice of Mr McComb to pass on the result of his conversation with technicians installing the NBN cable. I concur that most of the top third of the shire would have to travel to experience such rare delight but that's the point that we make. As for referring to the efforts of the local press as "noise", well, often the only way to get action is to make as much noise as possible. In Canberra, no one can hear you type.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
Independent Candidate for Western Port Ward
Far off the superhighway
October 23, 2016
Maybe Rob should check internet in Cowes. We gave up on ADSL, more time dropped out than connected. Easiest check is with Shire free wifi Phillip Island, gave up trying until recently, for MotoGP, to find that reward of patience is access to logon screen but no further. Cowes is meant to be a tourist destination but you almost need to resort to ticker tape telex.
Sure, new estates enjoy full blown FTH (fibre to the home) NBN. But corresponding with the mighty Malcolm Turnbull when he was still comms minister, asking for exception here because FTN (fibre to the node), for final run to users, uses existing old copper wires, salt corrosion saturated, he said no FTH, not even to so called cultural centre or library, even though NBN fibre is under footpath.
So, sadly, looks like we’re investing in technology not considered future proof for a developing country, as commented by one of technicians, camped out on street corners, for weeks on end, pulling short new bits of copper to one box, before extending to main FTN box.
So wireless broadband it is, except when tourists are here and bandwidth is chock a block, not even snail pace. Papers showing more noise for Cowes-Inverloch doesn’t mean we’re any better off.
Meanwhile, in genuine tourist destinations, in other countries, they appear to be already installing for 10Gbps.
Bernie McComb, Cowes
Let's get real
October 18, 2016
My heartfelt thanks to Robbie Viglietti for his wise, cogent and concise analysis of the Bass Coast Shire's situation, as we try to make sense of the thrust and parry of local council electioneering.
Getting balanced, unaligned coverage is a challenge for local residents trying to make informed decisions that will, hopefully, benefit as many people as possible across the shire.
Thanks go, too, to the Post's editor, Catherine Watson, for her efforts on our behalf in this pursuit.
Linda Gordon, Wonthaggi
Finding Ellen
October 21, 2016
Loved the pieces by Linda and pictures tell us all. Your pics are really telling.
Jane Doré
Reading the numbers
October 9, 2016
I think this was a poor article that achieves nothing but some exposure for these candidates. With the exception of Neil Rankin they have not seen the financials and are delivering political spin. The so called progress association on Phillip Island and the so called ratepayers association in more recent times have worked hard to undermine Council credibility - your article aides and abets them.
Michael Whelan, Cowes
I am sixty six
October 8, 2016
The mirror reflects, and for those that can see, life is a never ending reflection of being, achievements and associations. When we take the time, our life is our reflection.
Ian Samuel
The crusaders
Thanks so much BCP – an insightful article which has greatly assisted my appreciation of who’s who and where they are coming from.
Anne Paul, Ventnor
All the news that’s fit to print
October 9, 2016
Soon to be former Councillor and Mayor Jordan Crugnale nails it in one with her article "All the news that's fit to print" (September 24, 2016) regarding the overt influence and bias the local press has in a community such as Bass Coast.
Given that the two major local papers in Bass Coast Shire are now more or less owned by one family it is a cause for concern as apart from august tomes such as the Bass Coast Post and local community radio station 3MFM there is not much else in the way of proper media diversity. Many people talk about the concentration of media in cities and major regional centres but there should be just as much concern for areas such as Bass Coast where one or two papers can have such a hold on the opinion and debate in the community.
I moved from Melbourne to Wonthaggi in December last year to take up a role in, broadly speaking, community services with strong links to Bass Coast Shire and other organisations. I was quick to realise the amount of anger... no let's say... vitriol and bullying directed towards Bass Coast Shire Council, their officer bearers and Councillors. I have lived in some pretty robust parts of Melbourne where there was and is healthy levels of debate and discussion and community activism regarding local and state government services. However I have never come across such anger, resentment and agenda driven negativity as is what is known as the Stand Alone movement.
The local newspaper on the Island was and is essentially a mouthpiece for this organisation and week in and out there are negative stories and letters about Bass Coast Shire and the perceived "us versus them" - that is the Island versus Wonthaggi - issue that is enthusiastically promulgated without much evidence to support their ill-founded claims. I was even warned by a colleague to "watch what I say around town" about that newspaper as it could get you into trouble.
Speaking to many Bass Coast Shire office bearers including the CEO one of the first questions I ask is have they come across this sort of situation before and invariably the answer is no. Furthermore I have met Cr Crugnale several times and other Councillors such as Cr Neil Rankin my work capacity and found all to be highly professional, motivated and deeply committed to the best interests of ALL of Bass Coast Shire ... not just their own ward.
History does not lie and interestingly at the council amalgamations under the Kennett regime the then former Phillip Island Shire was virtually bankrupt and the local bush hospital (such facilities are not run by local government but rather come under the state government) had to be bailed out by the Department of Health as it was financially insolvent. The only Shire or Borough in the area that was financially secure was oddly enough Wonthaggi. It is somewhat curious that these events are not recorded in the august pages of the local paper when letters to the editor and other opinion pieces are published.
Finally if the good burghers of the Island do secede (highly unlikely) then the services they take for granted such as the library, maternal and child health, rubbish collection and the like will all disappear unless the new Council can negotiate with Bass Coast and other stakeholders for service level agreements which will be extremely costly. Then how will that be reported in the newspaper.
Steven Grant Haby, Wonthaggi
September 26, 2016
Thank you Jordan Crugnale. Anyone who walks onto that stage with good intent knowing full well the mindless hostilities to be faced has my admiration. You will be missed but it may take some a while to know what we have lost.
Bob Middleton, Wonthaggi
September 25, 2016
Jordan Crugnale reminds us how important it is to acknowledge the generosity and good work of our elected Councillors. She can look back over the last four years with pride if she were to list all of the achievements she and her elected colleagues are responsible for. Her term has been one of transformation, it has enabled a new CEO to overhaul the legacy of the past decades, and it has enabled the State Government to significantly increase its support for Bass Coast. Most importantly, it has enabled the elected Councillors to work together in the best interests of the Shire.
There will always be public disagreement and mischief in the local press, these things come with the territory, but, thanks to Jordan and her colleagues, over the last four years the Community has been better served and has had the opportunity to recognise mischief dressed as fact. I am sorry that the likes of Jordan Crugnale and Andrew Phillips find it difficult to continue their service, but am most grateful for what they have achieved, for the example they have set, and for the hope they give to the Community.
I am sorry that Jordan has had to divert her energies to setting the record straight, rather than being free to celebrate with her Community all the good that has been achieved. My thanks to you Jordan, and congratulations for a job well done.
Tim Shannon, Ventnor
Jordan has in my opinion been a great councillor making us sad when we heard she was not seeking reelection at Bass Coast. I know that she will be a valuable member of our community.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
In the steps of our forebears
September 25, 2016
Love the emu & chicks.
Annette Willkinson
Election Q&A
September 25, 2016
What an amazing Edition - congratulations to all concerned.
Pat Fraser
Behind the lines
September 13, 2016
That article about Roger Clark is just so inspirational. His courage is awesome. How come that perfectly healthy people with nothing to complain of are peevish and unhappy and yet someone with legitimate grouches against fate can still be balanced human being?
I am just so impressed.
Margaret Pearce
Another great BCP; I was particularly moved by the Roger Clarke piece. His achievements are great on their own merit but within the context of ongoing hospitalisations, astounding. The Waterline News does a brilliant job keeping all those communities engaged and in touch with each other; each edition packed with updates and local news and history pieces.
Keep at it Roger; Like the BCP, essential reading for Bass Coasters.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
September 11, 2016
Roger, you haven’t had the easiest of lives and you write it up matter-of-factly in a very readable and positive way. I’m sorry health problems currently complicate your life. But, as usual, you steamroll through difficulties others would consider insurmountable. I do hope you can soon get on top of your cancer and other health issues. You have to be strong physically and psychologically to cope with 12 ops in six years the way you have and now there’s another one to come. You are a true professional who is committed to getting out your magazine each month, no matter what.
Congratulations on your baby, The Waterline News, a fine magazine which, in two years, has grown to be a significant asset to the community.
May there be many more issues!
Meryl Tobin, Grantville
September 10, 2016
Well done to Bass Coast Post for publishing this article and congratulations to Roger Clark for soldiering on.
Reading the article I can't help but think how lucky we are, firstly the kids of today. Imagine if they had a job and then, if they were sacked because they took a week off because a parent passed away. It's probably written law they would be entitled that in personal leave and the employer had no alternative than to allow the time off.
Roger has certainly seen more than his share of adversity in his life. Most of us would only experience a tiny portion of this in our lives and would complain, shout for compensation - someone to blame, but what does Roger do? He writes. Not only for his own sanity but to bring joy, knowledge, information, mateship and a sense of belonging to our community.
Roger is a good bloke, I wish there were more like him not only in our patch of South Gippsland but the nation and, in fact, the world. My thoughts are with Roger in his continuing battle and my wishes go to him for the best outcome possible. Keep up the good work.
Shelley Applebee
I read with interest Roger's article about his life. Roger has done gardening for us in the past,and boy, did he work hard. We also enjoy the Waterline News, and wanted to wish Roger all the best in future health, for him and his wife.
Michelle and Brian
Across the great divide
The Diary of Anne Frank was so well done - Congratulations to the WTG.
"At regular intervals Nazi officers circle in the darkness, chilling, inexorable. It’s us they circle." I couldn't take my eyes off them and thought about them for weeks afterwards and how tough and cruel it must have been for those living with that threat
I believe we take our lives very much for granted here in Oz - thank you for that subtle reminder that we are so lucky.
Rosemary Loughnan, Wonthaggi
Footnote - I read the book the play was based on as part of my secondary school education but I never appreciated it as a teenager as I do now.
Port report probes need for second port
September 11, 2016
Congratulations to the Preserve Western Port Group on the news that Infrastructure Victoria will now conduct a review into the State’s future port needs. Their determined, dogged and well-reasoned objections to the development of a deep water port at Hastings are to be admired. They have been of great service to our region and the State of Victoria.
Strength to their arms.
Ray McNamara, San Remo
A bit average
September 11, 2016
Another fabulous, refreshing, clever piece from Tim Shannon. Hooray!!
Linda Cuttriss, Ventnor
The coast dwellers
August 29, 2016
I loved reading this recall of life in this most special spot, thank you. I have been living in Harmer’s for the last 19 years and the feeling of living here hasn’t changed
Tricia Hogan, Harmers Haven
August 29, 2016
Thanks editor Catherine Watson, and all contributors, for another newsy edition, and especially for the stories of re-growth, community collaboration and new beginnings.
What I wouldn't give for a modest hut on a quiet shore, as told by Frank C (The coast dwellers). But maybe not in Winter.
Linda Gordon, Wonthaggi
The final cut
August 29, 2016
Ursula’s Windy Day gets my vote. Another issue to relish - many thanks!
Rob Youl, South Melbourne
Cinema update
August 29, 2016
Our local cinema here in Redcliffe, Queensland, has started showing double feature 'oldies'. For example, first two Alien movies or a Jane Austen double feature. People still like to see these films in a communal atmosphere.
Andrew Shaw, Redcliffe
August 29, 2016
While I applaud the efforts of Larry and others to retain a cinema in Wonthaggi, I think it’s unrealistic to expect the council to buy the equipment and run a cinema. I don’t know of any other councils that run cinemas.
We’ve been very fortunate to have Keith Stevens operate the cinema for 17 years but it’s clearly not a commercial operation.
If we want to retain our cinema, I think it’s going to be up to us. I wonder about forming a co-operative along the model of the Lyrebirds Arts Council, which has run the very successful concerts at Meeniyan for about 15 years.
A cinema group would be eligible for various community grants from local, state and federal government, including grants from Regional Arts Victoria. And we have plenty of manpower to take on various roles that would be required. Perhaps the council’s contribution to retaining a cinema could be not to charge us rent.
Catherine Watson, Wonthaggi
Out of danger, prognosis good
August 14, 2016
Congratulations on a very insightful article on Bass Coast Health. As a retired member of the community the most negative feedback I get from fellow retirees is the poor state of health services in our region and the need to return to Melbourne if one is very unwell. Turn left at the round-a-bout is oft quoted if one is requiring attention for one’s health.
Therefore it was heartening to read the new CEO of BCH is positive about future initiatives and making plans to move Wonthaggi Hospital to a sub-regional hospital.
I would also like to commend the reporter, it was great to read an article that was positive and included thoughtful analysis. Well done, such a change from the local newspaper.
Lorrie Read, Rhyll
It is heartening to read such a positive article especially about our hospital.
Everything I hear about Jan Childs is good and she will make a wonderful addition to our Bass Coast Community. I applaud the Department for their work on this one also. We pushed hard in the last State election for Sub Regional status for the hospital and it seems it is on the radar. I am always an advocate for asking for the funds and demonstrating the competence to manage it.
And you can put the Bass Coast Pickers down to help with raising funds toward the Ultra Sound machine - lets put on a a well supported concert or two!
Michael Whelan, Cowes
Of sand and stone
August 2, 2016
Thanks Linda once again for your wonderfully descriptive and informative article about Cape Woolamai.
Jan Fleming, Cowes
120 Respite Drive
July 28, 2016
Hi Geoff,exciting look at the future.However the extremely slow introduction of electric cars may be an indication our high emission cars will be with us for a long time yet.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek😃
Our founding, murdering father
July 20, 2016
Many thanks to the Bass Coast Post for such thought-provoking pieces.
I am so touched by the insights within Jeannie Haughton's sublime Our founding, murdering father. The efforts of Cal Flynn, Jeannie Haughton, Rodney Forbes, Annemieke Mein, Peter Gardner, Don Watson, and others take us on a journey and give us a burden.
When this federal electorate was proclaimed in 1948, misery and horror were cloaked in a shroud now cast aside.
Anne Jones, convenor of the West Gippsland Reconciliation Group, submitted to the 2002 Australian Electoral Commission’s Victorian redistribution. She closed with “We are concerned that by continuing to honour the names of people who massacred and mistreated the original inhabitants of this land, the integrity of the reconciliation process is called into question”.
Submissions were also made by other groups and individuals to the 2002 and 2010 redistributions.
The name remains. In February 2015 the AEC issued a set of guidelines for determining the names of federal electoral divisions.
The opportunity to rename this electorate returns in the last quarter of 2017 with the next AEC redistribution of Victoria.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
Barking mad
July 20, 2016
Ethical banking, what a joke. From a council that needs consultants to do their own jobs for them – consult with their community. We have yet another time wasting issue when more pressing issues are at hand. If a business were to run their business on the council’s model, they would have gone bankrupt by now. Fortunately the council just has to increase rates indefinitely to pay for their fancies and frivolous decisions.
David Norton
June 17, 2016
It's easy enough to dismiss the Bass Coast Shire's efforts to invest ethically as wasting time or tokenism.
But, as Catherine Watson point out, it puts the shire on the right side of history.
Thanks for placing their decision making in context, and in a bigger frame than localised point scoring.
These incremental decisions and gestures by organisations add up to genuine and significant change over time.
December 21, 2016
This is a tricky one Gill, but here are my ideas. People coming from outside Bass Coast often speak of how friendly the local people are. Let's keep being nice and smile at all comers. Let us also assist in the education process, adding new information where we can. For example, when we hear of 'Asian countries where leaders traditionally get away with outrageous things,' let us enlighten further by pointing out the fact that non-Asian countries such as Italy, France, The Netherlands, Belgium, England, Spain, Portugal and the U.S.A. have a history of producing leaders that get away with outrageous things- Italy was the first country to air bomb a civilian population.
An Age of Enlightenment based on reason and cultured discussion seems a remote possibility given that what is currently being passed off as discussion or debate is mainly opinion fuelled by fear. Geoff Ellis is on the money with his thoughts. We may have to descend to a very dark place indeed before reason can be permitted take its rightful place. We need to become innovative in how we present our case, given the ineffectiveness of conventional logic as a tool of persuasion. We also need to be prepared for some nasty, sometimes vicious backlash when we speak out. Look at what the last round of Bass Coast councillors were subjected to whilst attempting to serve our community.
Let's keep brainstorming this one. We may surprise ourselves, or we may feel a little less isolated or alone in our concerns. Thanks for raising the subject, Gill. Long live the 'fair go'.
John Coldebella, Wonthaggi
December 19, 2016
I must commend and complement Gill Heal - her deftly worded discussion exemplifies the raison d'être for the Bass Coast Post. My personal thought on Trump-ism is that technological progress is remorselessly linear while social progress is more a pendulum that counter swings creating the 'two steps forward, one step back.'
Achieving liberté, égalité, fraternit is always easier during times of abundance. When times are tough Darwinian instincts come to the fore and the angry, disgruntled mob is the easiest beast for a leader to loosely harness. Clan against clan or nation against nation? It's just a matter of scale; it's always the other that we fear.
So, as the world races into Ad-Hocracy how can we dampen the swing? France tried and they extruded Napoleon. I agree that the hardest way forward is the most productive: To be honest and true to our values while actually listening to each other. And keep at it.
Geoff Ellis, Krowera
$17m Cowes centre shelved
December 20, 2016
To the Visionaries and to the Pragmatists who were elected as our representatives on Council for the next four years.
Tourism versus Arts and Culture?
Aquatic Centre or Cowes Cultural Precinct?
Cowes Jetty Triangle development or San Remo Foreshore? The list is endless and it shouldn't be an either/or situation.
We need to find the right balance between economic development, employment, tourism, conservation and the environment, arts and culture, health. All these are vitally important 'game changer projects' for Phillip Island in the future.
Yes it IS difficult, but the plan has been well and truly documented in the "Phillip Island and San Remo Visitor Economic Strategy 2035: Growing Tourism" which was adopted by Council in August 2016.
Phyllis Papps
December 19, 2016
After a vicious election campaign based on distortion and outright lies, Stand Alone have slapped the face of their many supporters and consigned the Cowes Cultural Centre redevelopment to the scrapheap.
Our previous Council had a fully funded vision; they recognised the need for the evolution of Cowes beyond a cultural back water reliant on penguins and motorsports. The centrepiece of their vision was the Cowes Activity Centre Plan and the redevelopment of the Cowes Cultural Centre.
Culture brings money. Money brings jobs, economic security and prosperity. A Cultural centre had a demonstrated economic benefit of 12.7:1. With the current Council obsessed with economic benefit above all else, what are they proposing? Continuing to fund the economically and environmentally unsustainable Inverloch tip? Aquatic centres that will be an economic black hole to the community, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars/annum? I look forward to seeing the economic benefit argument of any proposed new projects. If they do not stack up better that 12.7:1, there will be hell to pay.
It is time for Stand Alone Councillor Stephen Fullarton and the Mayor to explain their actions to the people who elected them.
There are over 250 businesses in Cowes. There are currently 60 businesses for sale or lease in Cowes; there are over 20 vacant shops. This is a clear signal that Cowes is an economic basket case.
We need advocacy for business in Cowes right now.
It is time for all businesses to unite and send a clear message to the Councillors that the community deserve better.
Robbie J Viglietti, Cowes
December 19, 2016
All councillors, across the entire Bass Coast Shire, expressed their independent views as to their decision in relation to the deferral of the detail drawings of the Cowes Cultural Centre at last Wednesday’s Council meeting. The majority of Councillors felt that the timing was not right to commit the ratepayers of Bass Coast to over $800k of architectural drawings, when there are still uncertainties in respect to the ultimate plan relating to the transit hub and proposed positioning of the aquatic centre.
The good news for the residents and visitors to Bass Coast is the $2.3m Cowes Jetty Triangle upgrade proceeding to design stage, and hopefully commencement of the works later in 2017.
The decision at the council meeting last Wednesday, was to defer the detailed design of the CCC and transit hub, until a further report containing options to proceed was presented to council. Such a report would include details of possible funding sources from both Federal and State govts. and likelihood of success.
We have many major projects planned across the shire, and each will proceed as and when appropriate funding is secured.
Pamela Rothfield, Bass Coast Mayor
December 18, 2016
Shame to those Island (and non-Island) councillors that did not vote to support such an important piece of Phillip Island (and need I say it) COWES history.
Here we had an opportunity to put our community first and set the tune to inspire and encourage further economic investment in Cowes but yet again, we are to be retarded for another generation ... until Council is refreshed with people who see the true future and vision for Cowes and Phillip Island rather than building their own factional stand-alone interests.
I regret we have at least 4 years before that change could happen - and who knows what more damage will be done in the meantime.
Rob Easton
Like many others, I feel shattered that despite the passion, committment and hard work of the working group, former councillors and council officers, the majority of the new councillors have virtually killed this project by refusing to allocate a mere $806,150 to allow the next stage of the redevelopment of the Cowes Cultural Centre and Transit Centre to proceed. This amount would have enabled the preparation of detailed specifications of the design and the opportunity to reapply for federal funding. The fact that these were not provided in the first submission for federal funding for the project was cited as a major reason for its failure. The Council report states:
‘Formal feedback from the Federal government indicated our application was strong and of high quality but could be strengthened in a couple of key areas. In particular, detailed design documentation is needed to strengthen and improve Council’s chances of receiving funding. Detailed design would meet the challenge of demonstrating the projects are “shovel ready”. All projects above $2M that received funding from NSRF have completed detailed design’.
A second application in the next round is obviously now out of the question. As the report also showed, the application for state government funding – (1) Regional Development Fund ($4.75M) and (2) Living Libraries Infrastructure Fund ($.75M) together with the Bendigo Bank grant of $.25M are (were) still ‘live’.
The supposed reason for not proceeding with the plans is council’s lack of finances. But the concept plans have been drawn up and paid for - only to be shelved alongside those produced in the past. In the meantime, the repairs for the ageing current centre which were placed on hold, will now need to be addressed. How much will they cost?
One councillor’s response to the loss of the motion to proceed with the design was ‘That was easy!’ Indeed. Considerably easier than spending hundreds of hours in planning, consultation with stakeholders and the community and writing lengthy funding applications.
I would like to express my thanks and appreciation to the former councillors who attempted to finally get this project off the ground and particularly to council officers David Elder and Robyne Young for their integrity, hard work and commitment to the vision for a marvellous centrepiece and community facility for Phillip Island. My commiserations go to those community members who have tried so hard so often but to no avail to make this happen. I'm not sure about Phillip Island standing alone - I think we are standing still.
Dr Marian Quigley
It seems disappointing that the Island Councillors did not vote in unity on this issue; I'd have thought they would have got together before the meeting and adopted a unified position.
I spoke briefly to Steve Fullarton during the week and he said he was keen to get funding for the jetty and foreshore area upgrade.
Whatever; between the Foreshore, Cultural Centre and Aquatic Centre the local Councillors need a unified position or they'll be rolled by the majority in Wonthaggi.
Mike Cleeland
I am utterly gutted and shocked at the Council's decision to shelve (indefinitely?) the Cowes Cultural and Civic Precinct (CCCP) project.
Those Councillors associated with the Phillip Island Stand Alone Movement have lost all legitimacy to be the 'alternative voice' for the best interests of the Island. For years there was continual campaigning from these people regarding the alleged lack of support and funding from the Bass Coast Council for the good people of Phillip Island.
The CCCP if implemented would have provided the residents and visitors a first class facility including a much needed expanded library, appropriate space for the local historical society and affiliated organisations, arts and cultural centre for all situated along one of the busiest thoroughfares on the Island.
As the former Bass Coast Principal Librarian employed by the West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation I would like to pass on my thanks and support to my former colleague Lucy Nuttal, Cowes Library Branch Manager and David Elder from Bass Coast Council for their tireless efforts in promoting the benefits of this valuable project to the community. I tip my hat to you both for your professionalism, enthusiasm and quiet determination under sometimes very trying circumstances. Lucy - you are a credit to our profession as librarians and information custodians and to David you are a credit to local government professionalism and commitment to the community. To both please do not feel downhearted. Continue the good fight.
To those associated with the Stand Alone movement, I don't feel contempt or anger, just sadness and disappointment. You could have underlined your cause by supporting this worthy project but now I feel that you will be the subject of increasing scepticism and questioning of your 'real' reasons for existence. You are now irrelevant.
Steven Grant Haby, Former Bass Coast Principal Librarian
December 17, 2016
What a blow for many residents of PI who have been excited by this project and the possibility of a reasonable place for the writers group and film club to met, and a place to showcase in winter when so many places appear to shut down.
I am so disappointed.
Nerida Melsmith
As one who has worked with many people to support the visionary development of the Cultural Centre, I share the disappointment with others, such as Anne Davie and Michael Whelan, at the decision of the Bass Coast Council not to proceed with the project. In the long run Phillip Island will be the poorer for this gutless decision.
John Adam
The decision of the new Bass Coast Council not to continue the journey and commitment to the redevelopment of the Cowes Cultural Centre,has hit the hundreds of supporters of the Project like the proverbial ton of bricks.
Since the first architect's design of a new Centre in 1993, there has been 6 other designs with community consultation and attempts to bring a Project into fruition. All have cost money, time and resulted in so much disappointment because of an inability to make a decision.
But with the 150th celebration of Closer Settlement of Phillip Island in 2018, the redevelopment project seemed to be absolutely the right time to have another try.
So the latest exercise commenced over 2 years ago with a unanimous commitment by the then Council, an architect appointed and a Working Group formed. Many Councillors and Officers attended the numerous, ongoing meetings of the Working Group and sessions with the architect. Concept plans were drawn up and considered by the many groups that will use the building. These continued for many months until all the groups were able to say, this is going to be ok, go for it.
Submissions were sent to the relevant government funding bodies and it was believed this would continue until these were successful.
But,alas, this Council feels this is just a step too far.
For me personally, I am full of sadness that this magnificent project, to which so many in good faith, gave so much time and passion, has been denied yet again.
The dream of a place in the Cowes township that would be a show piece for our creativity, our history, our precious environment and a place for people remains again, a dream.
Ann Davie
Missed opportunity
December 17, 2016
An $800,000 expenditure without any commitment or guarantee of a government grant??
Although I am in favour of the redevelopment of the Cowes Cultural centre, our limited resources should be directed to projects that can be achieved within the budget.
Once having addressed the many outstanding infrastructure needs of the community it would then be timely for council to revisit and invest in the cultural centre project.
Ian Samuel
Once again the wonthaggi city council makes decision's for wonthaggi, business as usual
Leigh Phillips
Leigh, it was actually 2 of the 3 ISLAND ward Councillors who stopped progress on this project. If they had voted yes, there would have been a majority
Albie
A very sad decision for progress on Phillip Island. All the consultations, submissions to council, local discussions on why we need a reasonable venue in Cowes gone. What a shame.
Lorrie Read
Bass Coast Post
December 18, 2016
Thank you so much for compiling and publishing the Bass Coast Post. I really look forward to receiving it on Saturdays and enjoy all of the articles. They are diverse, well written and interesting, and often fascinating.
I hope you have a lovely Christmas and New Year, and a relaxing and fulfilling summer.
Alison Ribush, Ventnor
Many thanks for your great publication, in the absence of any balanced reporting with either of the local newspapers I always look forward to reading Bass Coast Post. I am very pleased you will be back next year, I am a firm believer in local government and look forward to some interesting articles. Have a happy Christmas and a relaxing New Year.
Lorrie Read
Congratulations on this production & the ongoing work of all to protect your beautiful area. I have shared your wonderful photos on Facebook.
Wishing you all the best for the coming year.
Pat Fraser
The Wheatleys of Grantville
December 4, 2016
As a long-time resident of The Gurdies/Grantville area, I was very interested to read Tony Hughes’ article on Don and Irene Wheatley and the Grantville they knew growing up. I, for one, learned lots I didn’t know, for instance, that saw millers camped on the Grantville beach and what living conditions were like for residents living in Grantville in the 1920s, ‘30s and ‘40s. Many thanks to Don and Irene for sharing their stories and to Wonthaggi and District Historical members Tony Hughes and Irene Williams and others for collecting our oral history and also presenting it in such a readable way before it is lost to us.
Meryl Tobin, The Gurdies
More or less
December 4, 2016
I enjoyed Tim’s further reflections on our road to oblivion as an individual, as a society, as a memory. The trap is set and welcoming into the desolate world of mindlessness where we lose our ability to think or create, but remain only to observe, be observed and compliant.
Ian Samuel
Volunteers needed
December 3, 2016
Bass Coast Summer Agricultural Show runs on volunteers’ time and involvement and with that in mind the Show Society is looking for some lovely, time generous people to give us a hand culminating on Saturday January 14 and Sunday January 15.
If I haven’t already annoyed you, please let me know if you can help.
The main areas required are in the exhibition pavilion from Tuesday onwards ( we judge prior to the show being open), the cattle arena on Saturday and the horse arena on Saturday and Sunday. We also need people to man the gates and runners.
I can find people a job if they want to be involved ... we feed and water you and you get a free ticket - please come along and enjoy yourselves.
Rosemary Loughnan - Show Society Secretary
basscoastagshow@hotmail.com
The future starts now
November 22, 2016
The first time I heard Mikhaela speak publicly was at an anti-desalination rally. She was but a child, however that didn't stop me from being impressed. I second all previous comments.
John Coldebella, Wonthaggi
Well said Mikhaela - good on you for standing and I hope you'll try again next time around.
Marian Quigley
I was extremely impressed by this article. It shows wisdom and passion. The future will certainly be different and you are correct, it needs to be planned for now. Well done.
Joan James
November 19, 2016
Mikhaela, I so enjoyed your freshness and determination when I heard you speak. I very much hope that you will continue your fight, that we'll hear your voice ringing out again in support of youth, the environment, Climate Change - and the future. Hang in there!
Jane Westworth
I think we have missed out on a talented councillor here. A breath of fresh air,someone with imagination and wisdom beyond their years. One could say a lateral thinker in the bogged down barren field of local council. Don't go anywhere Mikhaela. We need people like you.
Bob Middleton, Wonthaggi
Well done Mikhaela. I do hope the new Councillors are taking notice.
Jan Fleming
I have had absolute admiration for you and especially after seeing you and hearing you at various Candidates evenings prior to the L.G. elections. Keep up your fantastic enthusiasm and great work. Age should never be an issue.
Phyllis Papps
A woman for all seasons
November 19, 2016
Great story Gill and congratulations to Carolyn in what she is achieving on her property and in her life.
Nola Smith, Cape Paterson
Sam’s pears
October 10, 2016
I enjoyed the story of Sam Anderson's early farming ventures at Bass. I found his choice of crop interesting, since pears generally store and keep less well than, say, apples. Was choosing to grow them due to his personal liking for the fruit, or did it give him a marketing edge because there were less other growers?
A point which also puzzles me: in reports of early settler farming that I've read, there are few mentions of honey bees. You would think that keeping honey bees would make crops like pears much more productive, and that yields in the presence of only native bees might be much lower. Does any reader know if honey bees were routinely kept by early settlers for the benefit of their crops? Was their presence simply taken for granted and so not mentioned specifically in descriptions of early farming?
Kit Sleeman
Paperbark town
November 9, 2016
Thanks Terri for reminding Post readers the value of swamp paperbark. Anderson Inlet Landcare also appreciate the profit that paperbark brings to our farms. As well to the world environment.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
Olga’s story
November 9, 2016
I just wanted to thank Joan for her brilliant portrayal of one of the loveliest women I have ever known. Joan you highlighted Olga's strengths and helped us to catch a glimpse of the marvellous woman that she is. Thank you.
Jacqui Paulson, Wonthaggi
Going, going, gone
November 9, 2016
Very good “passing out” article from Phil Wright. He had his ups and downs, but there was no question he was there for the good of the shire and its citizens. So well done, Phil, go for an extra hundred or so surfs.
His article very much exposes the myth that the two new “pressure groups” had no links to each other, not to mention a very compliant local media.
Oh well, up here at The Gurdies, if Inverloch/San Remo and Cowes become the next overdeveloped Mornington Peninsula, as sad as I will be about it all, (fond memories of San Remo in the 50s and 60s and Ma Normington’s 2/9d burgers with the lot), so be it. We’ll still have our P&Q “up here” as the “caffe latte set” build their holiday “McMansions” “down there”. However, in the case of San Remo/Cowes, only when the Phillip Island Road is not banked back at peak times to Anderson. (They can always come down in the middle of one of our bracing winters!)
Great that Clare, Michael Whelan and Geoff Ellis got in, perhaps Bruce Kent too. But the rest of them are going to make life very hard for the first three on good environmental and social issues/values.
Kevin Chambers, The Gurdies
November 8, 2016
As a frequent scrutineer, post-mortem opiner and armchair campaign manager, it is delightfully novel to have my numbers publicly crunched by someone else. The Mayne Report has disappointed me greatly with its flippant, supercilious treatment of Bass Coast, focusing solely on one ward and giving more prominence to a song review than any insightful analysis. Some of its gender-biased narrative could be considered slanderous.
In relation to the Ward boundaries, I was one of several people who objected in the VEC review and, having read all the submissions, the lack of focus of the council effort shines out. I believe that a strongly mounted case based on factual arguments supporting the status quo could have enabled retention of the seven-ward structure and saved the shire the cost of two extra councillors.
I would also like to point out that the number of votes not cast would have elected a councillor in their own right. The fact that so many people voted for NOBODY raises concerns about engagement, process and information dissemination that need to be addressed over the next four years. It also reinforces the need for councillors to work closely with foreshore, resident and ratepayer, farmer and all the community groups to engage the people of Bass Coast in a positive manner.
In relation the Phil Wright's inquisition of Western Port, I feel obliged to challenge subjective editorialising of immutable numbers. I also find this cursory mention of Western Port Ward emblematic of a bigger picture, as is the discussion of the intricacies of the poorly understood 'exhausting preferential proportional' voting system.
The VEC figures record that Ellis "started out" 209 votes behind B. Drew. B Drew then extended that lead by 41 with the Le Serve surplus and fell back by seven with the B Kent surplus.
I find reference to "excess votes" inappropriate as all the quota from both successful Candidates was distributed at a reduced value (0.13448033 and 0.0022388); similarly, I find the "doing very well from..." derides the fact that B. Drew was already in front on his own merit.
Distribution of A Lamer's ballots reduced B Drew's lead by 61. Distribution of M. Barlow's votes put G. Ellis in the lead though by 82 votes after the final distribution. Well more than 2000 people did not vote.
As for a candidate being "more suited to the Bunurong Ward" in his review, I note no mention of any other candidate (in any ward) being "being more suited" to another ward though I could suggest a couple who may have fared better in a different ward. As someone who attended many meetings with Mr Lamers over the last few months I consider that he would be a worthy representative in any Ward.
I also feel that the implied attribution of a candidate's vote tally to their gender ignores the hard work and sensible policies espoused by those candidates. I agree vehemently in regard to the need to diversify representation and suspect that the treatment of Former Prime Minister Gillard is impacting the gender balance.
Geoff Ellis, newly elected councillor for Western Port Ward
Election count
October 30, 2016
Thank you for your expert coverage and prompt delivery of the (perhaps devastating news) that only one existing Councillor has been returned. We have to wonder about the experience we threw out the window and the people and their agendas we brought in to govern our neglected part of the State of Victoria.
I sincerely hope these newly elected people don’t get big heads with the power now bestowed upon them and actually have the balls to make changes for the whole of the Shire, confront those not doing their bit, whether they are big, bad or ugly and show the ratepayers that they did actually deserve to get voted in.
Shelley Applebee
Just a vote of thanks for your excellent coverage of the election results. Congratulations to the winners and commiserations to the losers. I am sad that Neil Rankine was not re-elected but glad councillor Le Serve was.
Frank Schooneveldt, Inverloch
The results of the Bass Coast Shire local government, were both a little surprising and disappointing. Those affiliated with the so called action groups are going to have a lot to answer for over the next four years as the panel of nine councillors they have elected try and work together and reach agreement on anything.
The choice of name for the Bass Coast Ratepayers and Residents Association was the most disappointing part of the whole election campaign. They only really represented approx. 360 people, of which 90% came from Wonthaggi or Inverloch, so they were not truly representative.
As the old saying goes, ‘Be careful what you wish for’, well two groups have almost got control of the council, but will they ever agree on anything.
Very disappointing result for most, I suspect.
Roger Clark, Grantville
Thanks for the effort
October 25, 2016
Just thought I would send you a note to say how much I enjoy the Bass Coast Post.
Naturally not all articles are of interest to me, but the ones that are just so enjoyable. I particularly like the ones on the history of the area.
I guess my interest is sparked because I grew up 'just up the road' at Kooweerup and know the area these stories are set in.
Anyway, thank you for your efforts and rest assured they are much appreciated.
Peter Boekel
Beyond the call of duty
October 25, 2016
As someone who has just completed a six month job interview for the position so elegantly detailed, I am compelled to complement the Bass Coast Post. However, that is akin to pinning a medal on Everest.
Since moving to Wattle Bank in 2011 I have been informed, entertained, often delighted and occasionally saddened by the articles within and the “by the people, for the people” nature of the enterprise. “We owe you” is certainly reciprocated.
B.t.c.o.d. is the most comprehensive and enjoyable risk assessment that I have read. It leaves very little unsaid.
In discussion of people standing for pet projects I often cite the ACT election of 1989. The No Self-Government Party fielded a number of candidates solely committed to ending the embryonic independence of the Territory. Three of their candidates were elected and they went on to play important roles in the governance of the Territory.
There are many issues that need urgent attention but engaging the silent majority and building on “what’s strong rather than what’s wrong” should be a long-term consideration, especially if the current level of conversation across the community continues.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
Independent Candidate for Western Port Ward
October 24, 2016
The same has applied to every Bass Coast election since 2005 and possibly earlier. I recall vividly the sustained attacks on the previous CEO 12 years ago and some of the most vicious and unfair attacks on individual Councillors in each Council since.
One small point. The first change to the by-laws to exclude leashed dogs from the beach was taken without explanation prior to the decision being made at the Council table. I can’t recall any one who fought against this decision saying they “wanted to unleash dogs unto the beach”.
Veronica Dowman, Bass Coast councillor, 2005-12
October 24, 2016
Thank you, Catherine for so eloquently expressing the truth.
In every case with which I approached the past council, I was listened to with respect, asked for evidence and detail and accommodated after presenting rational arguments. It was this past council that added an extra fortnightly session in order to consult with community more adequately. All who wished could come to those sessions to address the council and discuss their concerns.
I found, especially the Mayor, Jordan Crugnale, a hard-working, intelligent, dedicated person who worked 'beyond the call of duty' for the benefit of our community. Much gratitude to you Jordan.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the past council; the hard, effective work of councillors as well as the provisions of ongoing opportunities for consultation with the Bass Coast community.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
October 23, 2016
We thank you Catherine for your brilliant and insightful article regarding the forthcoming elections here in the Bass Coast Shire.
Your objectivity and understanding of all the political issues is refreshing in light of all the other political rhetoric and spin that has been floating around for the past few months.
It's probably hard for you to imagine what a great impact 'Bass Coast Post' has had in terms of unbiased reporting during the past few years. The fact that you then let readers decide what is truth and what is pure self interest, is worth its weight in gold.
The community congratulates you and applauds you for your courage, determination and being a brilliant journalist and member of the community.
Phyllis Papps, Rhyll
Thank you Catherine, for an insightful, reasoned, witty and gracious treatment of a vexed issue. We can only hope that this next group of councillors has the collective intelligence and perseverance to step through and around the unending array of land mines, leaving the Shire in better condition than it inherited - as I believe the departing council has done!
Maddy Harford, West Creek
Great insight Catherine, into the difficult job of being a Councillor and fairly representing the electorate.
Robin Dzedins, Lynbrook
Happy times
Happiness comes from positive interactions with family, friends, neighbours and occasionally total strangers. Be alert for any opportunities which may arise, avoid commercial media as much as possible. If you’r not happy today, be content with a balanced life.
Frank Coldebella, Wonthaggi
Far off the superhighway
Nice of Mr McComb to pass on the result of his conversation with technicians installing the NBN cable. I concur that most of the top third of the shire would have to travel to experience such rare delight but that's the point that we make. As for referring to the efforts of the local press as "noise", well, often the only way to get action is to make as much noise as possible. In Canberra, no one can hear you type.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
Independent Candidate for Western Port Ward
Far off the superhighway
October 23, 2016
Maybe Rob should check internet in Cowes. We gave up on ADSL, more time dropped out than connected. Easiest check is with Shire free wifi Phillip Island, gave up trying until recently, for MotoGP, to find that reward of patience is access to logon screen but no further. Cowes is meant to be a tourist destination but you almost need to resort to ticker tape telex.
Sure, new estates enjoy full blown FTH (fibre to the home) NBN. But corresponding with the mighty Malcolm Turnbull when he was still comms minister, asking for exception here because FTN (fibre to the node), for final run to users, uses existing old copper wires, salt corrosion saturated, he said no FTH, not even to so called cultural centre or library, even though NBN fibre is under footpath.
So, sadly, looks like we’re investing in technology not considered future proof for a developing country, as commented by one of technicians, camped out on street corners, for weeks on end, pulling short new bits of copper to one box, before extending to main FTN box.
So wireless broadband it is, except when tourists are here and bandwidth is chock a block, not even snail pace. Papers showing more noise for Cowes-Inverloch doesn’t mean we’re any better off.
Meanwhile, in genuine tourist destinations, in other countries, they appear to be already installing for 10Gbps.
Bernie McComb, Cowes
Let's get real
October 18, 2016
My heartfelt thanks to Robbie Viglietti for his wise, cogent and concise analysis of the Bass Coast Shire's situation, as we try to make sense of the thrust and parry of local council electioneering.
Getting balanced, unaligned coverage is a challenge for local residents trying to make informed decisions that will, hopefully, benefit as many people as possible across the shire.
Thanks go, too, to the Post's editor, Catherine Watson, for her efforts on our behalf in this pursuit.
Linda Gordon, Wonthaggi
Finding Ellen
October 21, 2016
Loved the pieces by Linda and pictures tell us all. Your pics are really telling.
Jane Doré
Reading the numbers
October 9, 2016
I think this was a poor article that achieves nothing but some exposure for these candidates. With the exception of Neil Rankin they have not seen the financials and are delivering political spin. The so called progress association on Phillip Island and the so called ratepayers association in more recent times have worked hard to undermine Council credibility - your article aides and abets them.
Michael Whelan, Cowes
I am sixty six
October 8, 2016
The mirror reflects, and for those that can see, life is a never ending reflection of being, achievements and associations. When we take the time, our life is our reflection.
Ian Samuel
The crusaders
Thanks so much BCP – an insightful article which has greatly assisted my appreciation of who’s who and where they are coming from.
Anne Paul, Ventnor
All the news that’s fit to print
October 9, 2016
Soon to be former Councillor and Mayor Jordan Crugnale nails it in one with her article "All the news that's fit to print" (September 24, 2016) regarding the overt influence and bias the local press has in a community such as Bass Coast.
Given that the two major local papers in Bass Coast Shire are now more or less owned by one family it is a cause for concern as apart from august tomes such as the Bass Coast Post and local community radio station 3MFM there is not much else in the way of proper media diversity. Many people talk about the concentration of media in cities and major regional centres but there should be just as much concern for areas such as Bass Coast where one or two papers can have such a hold on the opinion and debate in the community.
I moved from Melbourne to Wonthaggi in December last year to take up a role in, broadly speaking, community services with strong links to Bass Coast Shire and other organisations. I was quick to realise the amount of anger... no let's say... vitriol and bullying directed towards Bass Coast Shire Council, their officer bearers and Councillors. I have lived in some pretty robust parts of Melbourne where there was and is healthy levels of debate and discussion and community activism regarding local and state government services. However I have never come across such anger, resentment and agenda driven negativity as is what is known as the Stand Alone movement.
The local newspaper on the Island was and is essentially a mouthpiece for this organisation and week in and out there are negative stories and letters about Bass Coast Shire and the perceived "us versus them" - that is the Island versus Wonthaggi - issue that is enthusiastically promulgated without much evidence to support their ill-founded claims. I was even warned by a colleague to "watch what I say around town" about that newspaper as it could get you into trouble.
Speaking to many Bass Coast Shire office bearers including the CEO one of the first questions I ask is have they come across this sort of situation before and invariably the answer is no. Furthermore I have met Cr Crugnale several times and other Councillors such as Cr Neil Rankin my work capacity and found all to be highly professional, motivated and deeply committed to the best interests of ALL of Bass Coast Shire ... not just their own ward.
History does not lie and interestingly at the council amalgamations under the Kennett regime the then former Phillip Island Shire was virtually bankrupt and the local bush hospital (such facilities are not run by local government but rather come under the state government) had to be bailed out by the Department of Health as it was financially insolvent. The only Shire or Borough in the area that was financially secure was oddly enough Wonthaggi. It is somewhat curious that these events are not recorded in the august pages of the local paper when letters to the editor and other opinion pieces are published.
Finally if the good burghers of the Island do secede (highly unlikely) then the services they take for granted such as the library, maternal and child health, rubbish collection and the like will all disappear unless the new Council can negotiate with Bass Coast and other stakeholders for service level agreements which will be extremely costly. Then how will that be reported in the newspaper.
Steven Grant Haby, Wonthaggi
September 26, 2016
Thank you Jordan Crugnale. Anyone who walks onto that stage with good intent knowing full well the mindless hostilities to be faced has my admiration. You will be missed but it may take some a while to know what we have lost.
Bob Middleton, Wonthaggi
September 25, 2016
Jordan Crugnale reminds us how important it is to acknowledge the generosity and good work of our elected Councillors. She can look back over the last four years with pride if she were to list all of the achievements she and her elected colleagues are responsible for. Her term has been one of transformation, it has enabled a new CEO to overhaul the legacy of the past decades, and it has enabled the State Government to significantly increase its support for Bass Coast. Most importantly, it has enabled the elected Councillors to work together in the best interests of the Shire.
There will always be public disagreement and mischief in the local press, these things come with the territory, but, thanks to Jordan and her colleagues, over the last four years the Community has been better served and has had the opportunity to recognise mischief dressed as fact. I am sorry that the likes of Jordan Crugnale and Andrew Phillips find it difficult to continue their service, but am most grateful for what they have achieved, for the example they have set, and for the hope they give to the Community.
I am sorry that Jordan has had to divert her energies to setting the record straight, rather than being free to celebrate with her Community all the good that has been achieved. My thanks to you Jordan, and congratulations for a job well done.
Tim Shannon, Ventnor
Jordan has in my opinion been a great councillor making us sad when we heard she was not seeking reelection at Bass Coast. I know that she will be a valuable member of our community.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
In the steps of our forebears
September 25, 2016
Love the emu & chicks.
Annette Willkinson
Election Q&A
September 25, 2016
What an amazing Edition - congratulations to all concerned.
Pat Fraser
Behind the lines
September 13, 2016
That article about Roger Clark is just so inspirational. His courage is awesome. How come that perfectly healthy people with nothing to complain of are peevish and unhappy and yet someone with legitimate grouches against fate can still be balanced human being?
I am just so impressed.
Margaret Pearce
Another great BCP; I was particularly moved by the Roger Clarke piece. His achievements are great on their own merit but within the context of ongoing hospitalisations, astounding. The Waterline News does a brilliant job keeping all those communities engaged and in touch with each other; each edition packed with updates and local news and history pieces.
Keep at it Roger; Like the BCP, essential reading for Bass Coasters.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
September 11, 2016
Roger, you haven’t had the easiest of lives and you write it up matter-of-factly in a very readable and positive way. I’m sorry health problems currently complicate your life. But, as usual, you steamroll through difficulties others would consider insurmountable. I do hope you can soon get on top of your cancer and other health issues. You have to be strong physically and psychologically to cope with 12 ops in six years the way you have and now there’s another one to come. You are a true professional who is committed to getting out your magazine each month, no matter what.
Congratulations on your baby, The Waterline News, a fine magazine which, in two years, has grown to be a significant asset to the community.
May there be many more issues!
Meryl Tobin, Grantville
September 10, 2016
Well done to Bass Coast Post for publishing this article and congratulations to Roger Clark for soldiering on.
Reading the article I can't help but think how lucky we are, firstly the kids of today. Imagine if they had a job and then, if they were sacked because they took a week off because a parent passed away. It's probably written law they would be entitled that in personal leave and the employer had no alternative than to allow the time off.
Roger has certainly seen more than his share of adversity in his life. Most of us would only experience a tiny portion of this in our lives and would complain, shout for compensation - someone to blame, but what does Roger do? He writes. Not only for his own sanity but to bring joy, knowledge, information, mateship and a sense of belonging to our community.
Roger is a good bloke, I wish there were more like him not only in our patch of South Gippsland but the nation and, in fact, the world. My thoughts are with Roger in his continuing battle and my wishes go to him for the best outcome possible. Keep up the good work.
Shelley Applebee
I read with interest Roger's article about his life. Roger has done gardening for us in the past,and boy, did he work hard. We also enjoy the Waterline News, and wanted to wish Roger all the best in future health, for him and his wife.
Michelle and Brian
Across the great divide
The Diary of Anne Frank was so well done - Congratulations to the WTG.
"At regular intervals Nazi officers circle in the darkness, chilling, inexorable. It’s us they circle." I couldn't take my eyes off them and thought about them for weeks afterwards and how tough and cruel it must have been for those living with that threat
I believe we take our lives very much for granted here in Oz - thank you for that subtle reminder that we are so lucky.
Rosemary Loughnan, Wonthaggi
Footnote - I read the book the play was based on as part of my secondary school education but I never appreciated it as a teenager as I do now.
Port report probes need for second port
September 11, 2016
Congratulations to the Preserve Western Port Group on the news that Infrastructure Victoria will now conduct a review into the State’s future port needs. Their determined, dogged and well-reasoned objections to the development of a deep water port at Hastings are to be admired. They have been of great service to our region and the State of Victoria.
Strength to their arms.
Ray McNamara, San Remo
A bit average
September 11, 2016
Another fabulous, refreshing, clever piece from Tim Shannon. Hooray!!
Linda Cuttriss, Ventnor
The coast dwellers
August 29, 2016
I loved reading this recall of life in this most special spot, thank you. I have been living in Harmer’s for the last 19 years and the feeling of living here hasn’t changed
Tricia Hogan, Harmers Haven
August 29, 2016
Thanks editor Catherine Watson, and all contributors, for another newsy edition, and especially for the stories of re-growth, community collaboration and new beginnings.
What I wouldn't give for a modest hut on a quiet shore, as told by Frank C (The coast dwellers). But maybe not in Winter.
Linda Gordon, Wonthaggi
The final cut
August 29, 2016
Ursula’s Windy Day gets my vote. Another issue to relish - many thanks!
Rob Youl, South Melbourne
Cinema update
August 29, 2016
Our local cinema here in Redcliffe, Queensland, has started showing double feature 'oldies'. For example, first two Alien movies or a Jane Austen double feature. People still like to see these films in a communal atmosphere.
Andrew Shaw, Redcliffe
August 29, 2016
While I applaud the efforts of Larry and others to retain a cinema in Wonthaggi, I think it’s unrealistic to expect the council to buy the equipment and run a cinema. I don’t know of any other councils that run cinemas.
We’ve been very fortunate to have Keith Stevens operate the cinema for 17 years but it’s clearly not a commercial operation.
If we want to retain our cinema, I think it’s going to be up to us. I wonder about forming a co-operative along the model of the Lyrebirds Arts Council, which has run the very successful concerts at Meeniyan for about 15 years.
A cinema group would be eligible for various community grants from local, state and federal government, including grants from Regional Arts Victoria. And we have plenty of manpower to take on various roles that would be required. Perhaps the council’s contribution to retaining a cinema could be not to charge us rent.
Catherine Watson, Wonthaggi
Out of danger, prognosis good
August 14, 2016
Congratulations on a very insightful article on Bass Coast Health. As a retired member of the community the most negative feedback I get from fellow retirees is the poor state of health services in our region and the need to return to Melbourne if one is very unwell. Turn left at the round-a-bout is oft quoted if one is requiring attention for one’s health.
Therefore it was heartening to read the new CEO of BCH is positive about future initiatives and making plans to move Wonthaggi Hospital to a sub-regional hospital.
I would also like to commend the reporter, it was great to read an article that was positive and included thoughtful analysis. Well done, such a change from the local newspaper.
Lorrie Read, Rhyll
It is heartening to read such a positive article especially about our hospital.
Everything I hear about Jan Childs is good and she will make a wonderful addition to our Bass Coast Community. I applaud the Department for their work on this one also. We pushed hard in the last State election for Sub Regional status for the hospital and it seems it is on the radar. I am always an advocate for asking for the funds and demonstrating the competence to manage it.
And you can put the Bass Coast Pickers down to help with raising funds toward the Ultra Sound machine - lets put on a a well supported concert or two!
Michael Whelan, Cowes
Of sand and stone
August 2, 2016
Thanks Linda once again for your wonderfully descriptive and informative article about Cape Woolamai.
Jan Fleming, Cowes
120 Respite Drive
July 28, 2016
Hi Geoff,exciting look at the future.However the extremely slow introduction of electric cars may be an indication our high emission cars will be with us for a long time yet.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek😃
Our founding, murdering father
July 20, 2016
Many thanks to the Bass Coast Post for such thought-provoking pieces.
I am so touched by the insights within Jeannie Haughton's sublime Our founding, murdering father. The efforts of Cal Flynn, Jeannie Haughton, Rodney Forbes, Annemieke Mein, Peter Gardner, Don Watson, and others take us on a journey and give us a burden.
When this federal electorate was proclaimed in 1948, misery and horror were cloaked in a shroud now cast aside.
Anne Jones, convenor of the West Gippsland Reconciliation Group, submitted to the 2002 Australian Electoral Commission’s Victorian redistribution. She closed with “We are concerned that by continuing to honour the names of people who massacred and mistreated the original inhabitants of this land, the integrity of the reconciliation process is called into question”.
Submissions were also made by other groups and individuals to the 2002 and 2010 redistributions.
The name remains. In February 2015 the AEC issued a set of guidelines for determining the names of federal electoral divisions.
The opportunity to rename this electorate returns in the last quarter of 2017 with the next AEC redistribution of Victoria.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
Barking mad
July 20, 2016
Ethical banking, what a joke. From a council that needs consultants to do their own jobs for them – consult with their community. We have yet another time wasting issue when more pressing issues are at hand. If a business were to run their business on the council’s model, they would have gone bankrupt by now. Fortunately the council just has to increase rates indefinitely to pay for their fancies and frivolous decisions.
David Norton
June 17, 2016
It's easy enough to dismiss the Bass Coast Shire's efforts to invest ethically as wasting time or tokenism.
But, as Catherine Watson point out, it puts the shire on the right side of history.
Thanks for placing their decision making in context, and in a bigger frame than localised point scoring.
These incremental decisions and gestures by organisations add up to genuine and significant change over time.
Echidna encounters
July 1, 2016
Enjoyed the article on the echidna and thought you may like this picture which I took 10 years ago at Harmers Haven, on the beach!
Leonie Smith, Wonthaggi
July 1, 2016
Enjoyed the article on the echidna and thought you may like this picture which I took 10 years ago at Harmers Haven, on the beach!
Leonie Smith, Wonthaggi
Two-horse race
June 21, 2016
A two-horse race for sure, but every now and then longshots get up, especially in McMillan. In 1972 Henry Hewson (Country Party) became the member for McMillan after receiving only 16.6 per cent of the primary vote. This is probably the lowest primary vote achieved by a successful candidate in any Australian election. Hewson got over the line with a flow of preferences from a disgruntled former Liberal member running as an independent and from the DLP.
The Victorian Liberal Party created a three-way contest in 1974 by fielding Liberal candidate Armitage against Hewson. Hewson's allegedly confusing how-to-vote card (using Liberal Party colours rather than Country Party colours and headed "Liberal-Country Party Senate Team") caused controversy during the campaign. Hewson picked up enough preferences from the DLP to overtake Armitage on the third count. He then won the seat on the fourth count after Armitage's preferences flowed overwhelmingly to him.
As for Flinders, well, in 1929, the Member for Flinders, Prime Minister Stanley Bruce, lost his seat during an election fought on industrial relations.
My advice to candidates in both seats is "don't give up till July 3 and then ask for a recount."
My advice to voters is to consider the largesse that flows to swinging and marginal electorates and look around on their way to the polling centre.
Geoff Ellis, Wattlebank
Member of the Wonthaggi-Bass branch of the ALP.
A sense of entitlement
June 23, 2016
Just what is it that you don’t understand, Eddie? As a follow up to my article last week regarding men’s violence against women, I’ve listened with interest this week to the debate surrounding Eddie McGuire and his misguided comments directed at Caroline Wilson. Perhaps we should thank Eddie for helping to give the issue oxygen.
Eddie doesn’t understand why his comments are a problem. He says “in my mind there is nothing wrong with what I said”. Well Eddie, that is the very heart of the problem. When men like you holding leadership roles in our community think that your words and comments, your intimidation and bullying, your threatening and insensitive gestures and gang mentality towards women, are acceptable then we have a real problem.
You think this is joke. Pass it off as friendly banter. Male bonding. A few blokes sitting around having a laugh. Cracking a gag. Then explain your jokes to the families who have lost a loved one to the violent actions of a man. You won’t need to look too far to find such a family. Currently the number stands at more than one a week.
Whilst you’re talking to the families, Eddie, explain why we live in a community where men’s violence against women is the highest contributor to death or injury for women aged between 15 and 44. If we continue to accept these comments as just friendly banter then we will never make inroads into this problem.
Interestingly, when surveyed, only 60 per cent of Herald Sun readers thought that Eddie’s comments were inappropriate. More disappointing was the view of Jeff Kennett in the same paper when he passed the comments off as a “humorous exchange”. Would the comments have stirred such debate if the subject was a man, he asked?
Sorry, Jeff, but you’re completely missing the point. They weren’t directed at a man. They were directed at a woman and were meant to be physically intimidating and threatening.
Remember the words of Ken Lay – school yard banter can later evolve into sexist jokes and catcalls and sink further to where it becomes sexual assault and domestic violence.
Wake up, Eddie. You’ve once again displayed your ignorance and failed in your role as an influential leader in our community.
Brian Paynter, MP for Bass
June 20, 2016
Having just read Brian's article on violence against women , and listening to todays coverage of the Caroline Wilson/Eddie McGuire scandal, I wish to display my disgust at the "blokey" culture of belittling people - same goes for the recent article about councillor-bashing.
The comments of Eddie, James Brayshaw and Danny Frawley, so-called leaders and "wise men" of the footy world, were infantile, boorish and destructive, particularly as this round of AFL was supposed to be in support of the violence problem.
Their pathetic attempt at schoolboy humour is archaic and should be stamped out, their carefully worded "apologies" arewoefully inadequate. Violence against anyone is not on, and joking about it is possibly worse. I feel almost ashamed of being a male, but reading Brian's words I know that we are not all tarred with the same brush.
Thanks Brian, for shining a light on the bullies. What next, Eddie - pulling the wings off a few flies? That would be a great joke ...
Mark Robertson, Wonthaggi
First whale of the season
June 20, 2016
Another fabulous and atmospheric photo from Lisa Schonberg - not only does she capture the astounding beauty of our Bass Coast backyard, but always sees the human/wildlife interaction, both good and bad. May you have many more whale encounters this season. Mark Robertson, Wonthaggi
My sea change
June 11, 2016
There I was reading the Post - not even noting the name of the author - and then saw my name referred in it as the teacher who showed the writer the difference between marketing and advertising. David Norton was quite a remarkable student - and was bound to succeed. It only goes to show what a wonderful integrated community that we live in where we can all help each other. David is of course now next to ArtSpace Wonthaggi and has helped us to do short video. What goes around - comes around.
Liane Arno, Wonthaggi
Great BCP issue especially Natasha's cartoon.
Bob Middleton, Jeetho West
June 4, 2016
I remember all of this as a friend of David and his family ... inbetween all of what has been written, David also used to work for me delivering catalogues for customers to their letterbox in San Remo for many years.
I love David’s business and have bought many good DVDs and history books from him.
Meet him leaving a garage sale with boxes of great books and dvd’s ... saying to me “I have all the good ones”.
When I found out he has put his business up for sale, I said to him “Why now? I would have loved to buy it 15 years earlier, but I don’t have that time in my life left.” What a great buy for the book lover. I understand life must move on, but David is an icon of our book store.
Noelene Lyons
Cats under curfew
June 11, 2016
I’ve just been browsing the BCP and I’m a bit late on this one but would like to have my tuppence worth! I believe the sooner society stops blaming the cat and putting the responsibility where it belongs, with the owners, the sooner the problem will be resolved. It is natural for cats to hunt and if their humans allow them to do it, they will. I have three indoor cats and I’ve had a cat run for fifteen years, which I even brought down from Sydney when I relocated. The cats are safer, I know where they are (as opposed to being squashed on the road or getting into fights) and nature is safe ... except for the cheeking lizards who think they can dash through the run without being caught! Therefore, the humans need to be educated into understanding that they are the problem, not the cat.
Pamela Jacka, Wonthaggi
Nice work if you can get it
June 5, 2016
Just read Geoff's article on job searching, he must be younger than me. Wonthaggi's "job agency" in the early eighties consisted of turning up at the counter of Bluey Reillys drapery shop in Graham Street (near the Caledonian Hotel – fortuitously!) where there was zero privacy, and a wooden box full of job prospects. Depending on if you appeared dishevelled (ie. a surfer) or respectable, you received the tick for another fortnight’s dole, followed by a celebratory visit to the Cally front bar – if the surf wasn't pumping.
In contrast, my disability job provider has many layers of staff, glossy corporate mission statements, and a complete lack of actual assistance. In 12 months of attendance they are yet to help me even write a resume. No wonder the lucky country is but a pale shadow of itself! I wonder at the comparison between Bluey's costs and that of the modern version – something for the "responsible authorities" to ponder when they next compare the lifters and leaners.
Mark Robertson, Wonthaggi
June 5, 2016
Geoff’s article on the CES brought back memories of my own dealings with that great institution in the 1980s. I used to spend six months of the year in New Zealand (avoiding the Melbourne summer) and six months in Melbourne (avoiding the NZ winter). On my annual return to Melbourne, I’d head to the CES to see what was on the jobs board. In those days, staff would arrange job interviews and ask kindly whether you had enough money for the fare to get there and to pay your rent until you got paid!
Often I landed a job the same day. Memorable gigs included working as a kitchen hand at Collingwood Football Club, working in a nursing home and writing a local history. Bring back the CES!
Catherine Watson, Wonthaggi
Cats under curfew
May 22, 2016
What a great development and long overdue to save our remaining indigenous birds and animals from roaming cats.
Marilyn Shaw
It’s about time council did something to curb this threat to native birds. Cats need to be domesticated in the absolute sense of the word: confined to the home. Native fauna has no effective defence against this western import.
Andrew Shaw
Inspired by the possibilities
May 18, 2016
On Friday May 13, I was fortunate to be invited to attend a community building master class, organised by the Bass Coast Shire Council.
Two excellent speakers, Cormac Russell and Peter Kenyon, each world-renowned experts in community leadership, provided insights into strategies towards positive community development.
I left feeling happy, energised, and even inspired by the possibilities discussed. I would like to thank the council for providing an opportunity to address, in a creative way, future challenges.
Jan Fleming, Cowes
Singing the song of angry men
May 30, 2016
Re: Peter Brown's comments on the photograph of former Prime Minister Tony Abbott, a picture is said to be worth a thousand words. What I saw in the picture reminded me of the mischievous look you sometimes see in a six or seven-year-old schoolboy. Then again, maybe the look of someone who has had a drink or two.
I once saw a documentary about a photographer who was commissioned to do portraits of famous people. His goal was to capture the person's character in a fraction of a second, which could not happen while the subject remained aware of the camera's presence. He needed to catch them off guard, preferably thinking about something other than the camera. He said that sometimes he had to follow the subject around for hours, if not days, waiting for that lapse of attention.
While I don't accuse Tony Abbott of creating abusive and demeaning behaviour – it’s been around for some time now – he most certainly participated in it. While I, too, recollect Mr Abbott being courteous in front of the camera, I also remember the sometimes disgraceful manner in which he addressed political opponents under parliamentary privilege. Standing in front of the banner which read “Ditch the witch” also lowered the bar. I also recall at least two instances in which Mr Abbott was caught by an eavesdropping microphone being less than sincere and courteous. He introduced into parliament a bill giving Australians the right to offend one another, as if the right to be offensive in the name of free speech was all we were lacking. I give him credit for withdrawing the bill. I also give him credit for his firefighting and lifesaving. These activities seem to bring out the best in him.
We could be excused for thinking abusing someone is an acceptable form of expression and means of dealing with those who don't see things the way we do. Politicians, radio presenters, newspaper columnists, talkback callers and writers of letters to the editor ooze venom; some of it brutally blunt, some insidiously subtle and deceitful. And so ill-mannered behaviour and disregard for another person's dignity flows out onto the streets, into the traffic and retail sectors, finally ending up on a beach on the end of a leash that is not attached to a dog.
A couple of summers ago, I saw two unleashed dogs meet on a crowded Phillip Island beach. After a brief introduction, one took the other in its mouth. The owners of the biter had them separated before the owner of the bitee arrived on the scene. She was elderly, and unwrapping the leash from round her wrist, she began lashing out, attempting to whip the offending dog while screaming about a vet's bill. In a most undignified display, she fell over, continuing her angry tirade. That sort of explosion takes days to get out of your system and longer if you choose to. This topic warrants further scrutiny.
John Coldebella, Wonthaggi
May 20, 2016
Aggressive attacks on females in public office by the commercial media is part of a long tradition. Think of what Janine Haines, Joan Kirner, Susan Davies, Christine Nixon and Julia Gillard, to name just a few, had to endure.
The negativity towardsour own first-term councillors started with a beat-up front page story in a local newspaper about poisoned vegetables at Newhaven.
Despite their inexperience, I see the current councillors as the most listening, socially aware, broadly educated and up-to-date we have had.
The previous council had a free ride in commercial media, even when changing the coastal town boundaries without consultation.
The role of commercial media is to manufacture opinion, set cultural priorities and make people feel anxious, deprived and inadequate enough to turn to consumerism or retail therapy, thus increasing advertising revenue. Is there a correlation between consumption of commercial media and life dissatisfaction?
The message is to leave local government to establishment blokes and just buy stuff that’s in our ads. Perhaps a 45-square house will solve your problem.
Frank Coldebella, Wonthaggi
May 18, 2016
As I sit in my comfy bed reading your publication, enjoying Tim Shannon's words, I think about all the views and comments I hear from different members of the community. As a beauty therapist for 15 years full time in Cowes and now part time, I really do hear it all.
The community of Bass Coast is so divided, so fractured, and sometimes blinded by their own needs and desires for what they think is needed or wanted or correct in their eyes.
What if your publication ran a series of town hall tea and talk sessions? Visiting as many tiny towns and large ones alike in the shire. Have a meet and greet, be unbiased, use a white board or butchers’ paper. Gather everyone's concerns, grievances, praise, fears and feedback? Its a very diverse and divided shire with the “us against them” vibe strongly showing through. I believe the only way forward is a united, not a fractured, shire.
Imagine the joy in listing the good, bad and ugly that every tiny pocket of community see as their truths ... Oh the charts you could make.
A warm word of welcome and a smile goes a long way to bring folk together, I feel everyone needs to know it’s not just about Phillip Island versus the mainland. Gosh, who listens to Farmer Tom or that single mum?
So many towns, so many folk without a voice. It's an election year, the candidates need to hear their community's voices, I mean actually hear, not just say “Yes, I'm listening!” As thats a sign they are not.
I hear so much negativity on my days in Cowes. The district is losing great passionate people who just tune out. The holiday home owners are mostly uninterested. And people still don't understand the council doesn’t control the roads, did not close the hospital, and how will they pay all the fabulous district nurses.
I've not expressed any personal views. I see folk from the Stand Alone, the for and against, the greens, the carve-it-up crew, the close the bridge gang, the hills folk, and the we-need-this-and-that type.
We get the government we deserve, no matter what level of government it is.
Kylie Joyful, Hawksburn
May 12, 2016
This is a poignant article. I disagree with much of what our elected council does and their perceived incompetence irritates me frequently, but they should not be abused for being human.
I do, however, feel that accusing Tony Abbott of creating, supporting or promulgating such abuse is neither correct nor helpful. Phil Wright has enough experience in local government to know what he is doing - stirring the pot - no doubt intended as a political backhander. "It is alright to abuse a conservative, they are the bad guys."
Tony Abbott is a scrapper, and is by no means perfect, but I don't believe he is responsible for the poor behaviour of others in our society, any more than Paul Keating or Bob Menzies. My recollections of the man are that he is generally direct but courteous. Those who oppose him are more often discourteous and mean of spirit.
The choice of photograph in the article confirms my thoughts that those in the media choose to portray our politicians in a certain light. The accompanying photograph suggests a snake or devil; deliberately chosen to direct our view? Tony eating an onion would have been more honest.
The real culprit is, I believe, the electronic media which allows subliminal messages of hatred to groom the morals of our society without proper check. Fast and ever-present coverage which always wants to cut others down. Tall poppies are getting shorter. We rightly spurn the 'anti whatever' hate-speak emails, but condone the abuse of our elected politicians on Facebook, TV, radio and elsewhere.
Television and radio news-bites tend to push an image which supports our Australian political tribalism. We, the anonymous public, are groomed to hate and disrespect those with whom we disagree. That may be why our councillors are abused.
Peter Brown, Glen ForbesMay 12, 2016Thanks Catherine for your article. I agree that Tony Abbott and his party were unfortunately rewarded for the aggression and personal abuse that he brought into political debate in Australia. We all remember his three words crafted to put forward his views and that of his party. That was just spin from the large group of communication specialists in his office who did not want any depth to discussions on policy. His relentless personal attacks on people including former prime ministers who did not agree with him or his party is something that was picked up by the media and exploited. Our society needs time to heal from that onslaught and those that benefited need to challenge their acceptance of this behaviour in return for power and financial gain.
Our councillors receive the trickledown effect of this rewarded abuse and some people use this form of perceived validated communication so they can make their views heard. Our councillors really do need to have broad shoulders in their dealings with our community.
Jeff Nottle, Newhaven
May 7, 2016
Thank you for this article. It provides excellent insights and the comments reported reinforces to me the quality of the people we have representing us. When I compare them to the Councils that went before them they are head and shoulders above them.
I personally witnessed councillors being subjected to aggression last Monday night. We had four councillors in the room, and while I could always finds points to debate with them, they are all excellent people giving up their time to inform us residents. We also had the consultant who prepared the draft Tourism Strategy.
They were harangued from a point of view rather than facts. The CEO in his absence was also singled out for attack. These people came to a meeting just to put a point of view - not listen. While they are passionate they are ill informed and their facts are one sided.
They are also condescending and rude; especially to councillors but also the rest of the meeting and in particular to the chairperson.
Michael Whelan, Cowes
I am saddened and disappointed at the often disgraceful treatment by individuals meted out to the Bass Coast councillors while they are trying to carry out the role for which they were elected. I was particularly struck and chilled by the statement "You disgust me!" levelled at Cr Kimberley Brown.
This same phrase has been spat at me on two occasions years ago, while I was MP for Ringwood. Both by different middle aged men, at my face, with no one nearby. The first was in Parliament house dining room, delivered by an opposition MP, in response to a speech I had given on family violence. The other was at a local public meeting about work cover legislation. Both very public spaces.
This abuse was unexpected and shocking. I felt quite frightened for my personal safety. These personal insults , so full of hate, never leave you. Those men, at that time, felt they had won their argument hands down, because of the numbing shock I obviously felt.
Each of them felt it was OK to speak to me in such a degrading manner. These men feel an entitlement to reduce, shame, cower and ultimately silence women. They feel their voice is the only voice entitled to be heard.
No more! Today I would stand my ground, not shrink, look him in the eye, stand toe to toe (very hard when they are so much taller then you!) and say very loudly "This man is threatening me!"
Women everywhere - don't take this publicly unacceptable behaviour! (It is of course unacceptable privately as well, but a note of caution here! Women can get beaten mercilessly if they fight back.)
The councillors can and do expect a measure of robust discussion and responses to proposed council policy or actions, but I would never agree or accept that any councillor has "signed up" for outrageous unacceptable abuse, derision and threatening behaviour. No matter what the issue is, they are entitled to be addressed and listened to with respect.
Being an older person, I subscribe to the view that all manner of difficulties, disputes and issues can be negotiated and usually resolved over time.
I sincerely hope to see an outbreak of respect between us all in Bass Coast.
Kay Steches, Surf Beach
Thank you, Catherine, for revealing what our councillors have to put up with from some, when these people's demands are not met. Personally, I am eternally grateful to people who are willing to sit through hours of what, I imagine, can be boring meetings to deal with the minutiae of day-to-day running of our shire, people who take the responsibility of budgeting with decreasing revenue and ever-increasing demands, who take the responsibility of planning ahead for the benefit of our shire, people who spend hours in consultation with their constituents when making decisions.
Councillors, I feel humbled and grateful for your tireless work to benefit our shire. I apologise for the abuse of disaffected people to whom Tony Abbot gave permission to be rude. Please know that there are many of us who appreciate and value your work.
Thank you.
Felicia De Stefabo, Glen Forbes
Wondrous strange
May 7, 2016
Professor Shannon’s thought-provoking articles continue to challenge our understanding of evolutionary architecture. Are we blessed, threatened or challenged by technology. The unlimited expansion of ideas driven by technological change allows us to escape familiarity and apply our creative vision to embrace the unfamiliar.
Ian Samuel
Petrol price puzzles
May 12, 2016
I drove up to Melbourne the day before the Post published my study of petrol prices. There is a garage within sight of where I was staying. On arrival petrol was 99.9 cents. Anxious to go out for dinner I decided to fill up the next day. Dawn rose over 124.9 cents signs. Infuriated due to my own sloth I drove away and tanked up at the last pump before Citylink. This added an extra two cents per litre. Oddly, the cheapest fuel on the return Leg was 106.9 cents at Koo Wee Rup. Back in Wonny there had been no movement so unleaded was now cheaper than Melbourne. I have cancelled my bulk order for jerry cans and am seeking counselling while working on a scheme for advance purchase of fuel by the litre when it is cheap; a cross between gift vouchers and the futures market.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
May 7, 2016
Couldn't agree more on comments about the ridiculous variation in prices across a few kilometres. Last Saturday the variation between San Remo and Cowes was 14 cents a litre. If you were a really loyal grocery shopper with a petrol discount you we're really only ripped off by 10 cents a litre!
On the Monday morning I drove to outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne and loyalty customer in the same group could purchase petrol at 20 cents per litre less than Cowes!
Supposedly there is a supermarket price war on in Cowes and Phillip Island but it certainly doesn't apply to petrol!
Do these companies think we buy petrol but don't drive anywhere? Because they clearly think we're stupid! It's good to support local business but not at any price.
Chris Day, San Remo
Swell and spray
April 24, 2016
Having read Linda’s wonderful piece about the Blowhole with the majesty of the Nobbies in the photos, I thought I would send you the poem I wrote when the Nobbies Action Group was formed to fight the inappropriate building.
Anne Davie, Ventnor
Ode to the Nobbies
This sentinel in time
this grandeur of rock and breaker
caressed by wind and rain
majestic and powerful.
The dipping gull, the boisterous seal
the diving penguin, bear testimony
to a special place
their sanctuary.
To its rocky platform
the Aborigines did come
for shellfish, to feast
and to tell stories of the dreamtime.
And in our frantic lives
we need this place
to embrace the wind
to feel the space.
To hear the call of the bird
and the sound of the sea
to rejoice in the beauty
and replenish the soul.
This sentinel of time
this grandeur of rock and breaker
caressed by wind and rain
watches in silence.
A Rain of Love
April 24, 2016
Thank you Fiona for the beautiful, sad, heroic story I will never get tired of hearing. In my eyes you are a heroine, but also privileged to experience the love, to be in a position to help.
Felicia De Stefano, Glen Forbes
Rubbish and other useful stuff
April 21, 2016
We regularly attend the Morwell, Bairnsdale, Mornington and Hampton Park Tip shops. As mentioned, it creates employment, reduces landfill costs and recycles things that would otherwise just be thrown into a hole.
We have picked up sheets of colourbond to build a chook house and kennel. Found some office chairs that were a fraction of the cost of a cheap student office chair. As things come in at differing times of the day, these shops are always buzzing with happy shoppers.
David Norton, Wonthaggi
April 12, 2016
Impressive stats from the Canberra Tip shop do encourage me to come along to the WNC on 13th April. I wonder how long the Canberra shop took to establish itself to this degree? And the larger population would have a lot to do with it's success. So I'd better attend the meeting to ask my questions.
Sue Packham, Woolamai
The tyranny of choice
April 14, 2016
I am just thinking about the decisions I make at the supermarket too. Is it Australian produce? Is it Australian owned? Which number preservatives, colours etc?. How much sugar, salt, saturated fats, trans fats does it contain. How much packaging is included? Shampoos and toothpaste with chemicals I can’t even pronounce. What’s the use by/best by date? Comparing price /100g for value. Is it ‘fair trade’? Is it good for me?
Remember seeing a dietitian on the TV one day saying “The less processed food looks like the original product the less good it is likely to be for you” (eg. cheese versus cheesels).
I usually end up just buying fresh meat, fruit and vegetables, what’s on special and what’s Australian.
So hard and rarely able to satisfy all requirements.
Maybe we should go back to the days of old – salt instead of toothpaste, yellow blocks of Velvet soap for washing self, hair, dishes and clothes, a frayed twig as a toothbrush.
Libby Lambert, Bena
Many thanks, Geoff Ellis, for lots of laughs. I also chose happiness with what I have. As for toothpaste I buy it at health stores, not so much choice. Lots of food I get from our garden, or from Grow Lightly, a store in Korumburra which stocks locally grown and produced food.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
Geoff's article on the joy on FREE choice was not only very funny but also well thought out & informative. Thanks Geoff.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
Love the cartoon!
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
What’s right with the council
April 15, 2016
I would like to join with Kay Setches and Linda Cuttriss and compliment the good deeds of the Bass Coast Council. But I cannot bring myself to be that magnanimous because the council is not a uniformly consistent performer on many fronts.
I applaud the staff with whom I come into contact on a regular basis. However, the executive team is pretty new to Bass and are still to demonstrate that they can be trusted to deliver on their promises.
I take heart rom the recent performance and words of Mark Brady at the community forums discussing long-term financial plans and rate capping. He told the audience at the Cowes meeting that he “got it” – meaning he was hearing the predominant and would shape his future actions upon those sentiments. I hope that he can maintain that position and that other members of the senior team will follow suit.
I have reason to be sceptical. For years the Bawden administration treated those of us who turned up at public meetings or made submissions on community matters with utter contempt. Hopefully we see an end to bad management decisions such as the ripping up of sealed streets. This sort of unnecessary stupidity angers large numbers of residents.
I hope the rate capping consultation may have set a new and commendable trend.
Of greater concern still is the lack of leadership by the councillors. I know they too inherited a broken system when they were elected. No planning strategy, no infrastructure strategy, no waste management strategy, no funding strategy, no policy on community consultation, and so the list goes on.
They have still not made much progress. Yes, they caved in to the farmers and lowered farm rates by more than $1 million but, they had no plan to replace the $1 million other than to ask the rest of us to pay more. They botched the relatively straightforward matter of dogs on beaches.
I say to Kay and others that they should continue in their efforts to applaud the good things the council does. I will do the same, but I will also continue to highlight the need for greater accountability as councillors and the senior executive proceed to redress the decades-long void of policies, strategies and governance which this shire has foisted on its staff, ratepayers and residents.
Ray McNamara, San Remo
April 1, 2016
What a refreshing change to read something positive about Bass Coast Council. The constant negativity has been wearing me down. There's so much emotion and so few reasoned arguments. From what I can see the councillors seem to work hard and do their best. Whenever I have dealings with council officers they are pleasant, responsive and helpful.
Of course, the council isn't perfect. It has to balance often conflicting community views, align with state government frameworks, work to specific funding criteria and meet quite high expectations with the smallest possible budget.
But, I do worry that all this negativity is divisive and unhealthy for our community. I worry that good people will balk from standing as councillors. I worry that a divided community is not attractive to State and Federal Government funding bodies that want to see the best bang for their buck. I am afraid that unless there's some negotiation, collaboration, even compromise, that we will all lose out.
Linda Cuttriss, Phillip Island
March 29, 2016
Whilst we enjoy the unilateral accolade comments for the present council from the former minister, the Hon Kay Setches, the retired Minister does highlight a important issue for the council to address in upcoming elections - whilst the Bass Coast Shire digs up sealed roads (yes 'dust suppressed' roads are sealed), many shire residents do not realise that if your sealed road is not maintained by VicRoads then there is a real possibility that in the next few years , your road will be dug up like the Esplanade in Surf Beach. Please remember to ask your candidate councillor what their position is on road maintenance?
Matt Gallagher, Smiths Beach
March 27, 2016
As a past Minister for Conservation, Forests and Land and Minister for Community Services in the Cain and Kirner Labor governments, maybe Kay Setches would like to investigate and comment on the council’s attempt, with their C140 amendment, to change the Gurdies Wildlife and Conservation area from Farming Zone to Rural Activity Zone and thus introduce tourists to the area at the expense of conservation and the native flora and fauna.
This is an excerpt from an expert witness statement for the Panel Hearing for the Bass Coast Planning Scheme Amendment C140: Rural Land Strategy Implementation from Chris Smyth of The Victorian National Parks Association:
“The Rural Activity Zone as shown in Map 1 (The Gurdies area) is broad-bush in its application and thus includes existing native vegetation cover. The permissible uses with or without permits include feedlot operations, timber production and land subdivision, all of which could result in the clearance of remnant vegetation cover from separate development applications under the planning scheme; effectively death by a thousand cuts.
“This cover is locally significant and should be part of any efforts to establish and maintain corridors to enhance the survival of regional native species: 17 mammal species, 130 bird species, 15 reptile species, and 339 native plants including more than 50 orchid species (as reported in the Sentinel Times 26 June 2012).
“The importance of this wildlife was recognised by the establishment of The Gurdies Conservation Reserve. It is now time the planning process provided clarity and certainty for wildlife beyond the boundaries of this reserve. This will require far more subtlety within planning scheme zones as opposed to the current broad-brush approach regarding the proposed Rural Activity Zone at The Gurdies.”
Maybe the council has got the conservation area right in Phillip Island but it is effectively trying to ruin our area by introducing a totally unnecessary change to the planning zone that up to 50 per cent of residents in the area are objecting to.
Rob Parsons, The Gurdies
Ministerial blitzkrieg hits town
April 4, 2016
One visit of a Government Minister is better than 10,000 words.
Six Government Ministers of the Andrews ALP Government coming to Bass Coast Shire and fanning out to visit, experience and, most importantly to listen and talk with local community members in so many locations, is an invaluable contribution to the collective understanding of Government to the needs, attractions and uniqueness of this Shire.
This is not just one voice in Government! - together with the recent visit of the Premier, Ministers being able to discuss and understand the issues that are on our minds will be
easier and much more efficient and effective.
Congratulations to Mayor Cr Jordan Crugnale in convincing the Premier of the need for Ministers to visit Bass Coast Shire.
This is about one third of the entire Ministry!
My memory is that this is the first time such close attention by State Government has been focused on the Bass region.
When I was a Minister in the Cain and Kirner Governments, Ministers used to travel en masse to regional Victoria holding Community Cabinets in much the same way. The Kennett Liberal National Co-Alition Government said this practice was a "waste of time and money" and stopped such activities.
It has been my view that a"whole of Government "approach is needed for this region because of the economic and environmental importance of this region to the economic well being of Victoria.
Realistically, the Bass Coast Community cant expect that every one of the dozens of issues raised will be the object of Government action. In fact most won't!
But the community can be assured the Government knows much more about Bass Shire and the people who live here, than they did the week prior to the visit.
Kay Setches, PhillipIsland
Taking the waters
Really enjoyed your article "Taking the Waters" and especially the beautiful photos of the bird life enjoying the bird bath. Feel inspired to get a bird bath into my garden soon.
Nola Smith
A flicker on the hill
April 4, 2016
Well said Geoff Ellis. We all need to take more responsibility about how we are governed, not just complain. Direct action also works if we join forces with other community members.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
April 1, 2016
An inarguable point was made in regards to an individual member's inability to influence the party of their choice. Decreasing membership numbers only make it easier for "the machine" to control outcomes.
In answer to the question of "where to now" for the Put Ricky 1st campaign: What about a Facebook page like the cool kids have. Ricky shouldn't bother with twitter, you reach a lot of people but only for a moment till the next twit arrives.
Then why not get him into a red two door car, preferably an older model with baby boomer appeall and get pics onto the cover of every motoring magazine distributed in Victoria. Every newsagent and supermarket magazine rack is a billboard. A "Ricky1" number plate could be probably be found.
After that ? Greg Hunt walks the length and breadth of Flinders to raise money for charity and meet his constituency. His performance as Minister for Environment speaks for itself but he still gets elected. Chris Buckingham and his caravan are clocking up the kms in McMillan to good effect. Ricky represents all of Victoria; that's a lot of wide open road ... he only needs 7.5% of us to put him first or second or third.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
March 27, 2016
Thanks Geoff Ellis. I agree – a voter backlash is in order and Ricky Muir has earned respect. From a startled rabbit he has shown a maturity and independence that we do not see from the big party people. The old Senate election system delivered an odd lot but relatively free thinkers that saved us from the worst of the Abbott excess. It sure beats voting for a lawyer in a dark suit who has probably never worked outside the political system or large party related law firm, the type the major parties throw up all the time.
I think you nail it when you point out the second stringers in the parliament and the Senate. They are the party drones that present reliable numbers and contribute nothing to the nation. We are better off with the real people we have now.
I would like to think that, as you say, you could join the big party and own it but the machines are too strong for that. They do not fail to disappoint. On this occasion Labor opposed the voting changes but only because they favour the Liberals – if Labor was in power, the roles would simply reverse.
You mention Xenophon – he would not have been elected the first time with the new system. His role is disappointing in that he is prepared to ride the advantage of being well known now. As for the Greens, well, what can you say?
Michael Whelan, Cowes
Geoff makes some good points about Ricky Muir. He is both a nobody and an everyman. The ridicule initially heaped on him has turned to widespread respect.
It makes me wonder if the Senate shouldn’t be selected by means of a raffle among the 20 million other nobodies who make up Australia.
In The Conversation, Professor John Dryzek from the University of Canberra recently wrote of Ricky Muir “It is his very ordinariness that makes him such a good senator.” (The proposed Senate voting change will hurt Australian democracy.)
He contends that while the role of the House of Representatives is to formulate and justify policy (thus requiring a high level of political skill), the role of the Senate is to listen to the arguments on both side and reflect on them with an open mind.
While party politicians are good at justifying, most have no ability to reflect.
The changes to Senate voting, Professor John Dryzek wrote, “will ensure the Senate is composed almost exclusively of career politicians, who are unrepresentative in the sense that they do not reflect the social composition of Australia, and also ensure that one of the last vestiges of reflection is purged from our parliamentary system.”
So Geoff, how do we promote a “Put Ricky First” campaign?
Catherine Watson, Wonthaggi
Cry freedom for other people’s grandchildren
April 4, 2016
Thank you Anne for going on our behalf. We were with you as we rallied in Wonthaggi for your success in Canberra. We, the South Gippsland Rural Australians for Refugees, look forward to hearing in detail what happened in Canberra when you come to address our meeting.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
March 27, 2016
What an inspiration the grandmothers in purple are. Future generations will surely wonder what disregard allowed children to be placed in detention. Haven't any consequences of the stolen children penetrated into the political thinking of our nation ? One has to say no. The lack of humanity shames me and how do we change it when both parties have the same policies !
Nerida Melsmith, Cape Woolamai
Order out of chaos
March 22, 2016
Thanks Tim for another beautifully written piece. I love the way you mesh the past and the present, compare and contrast the role of the various arts in architecture and shine a light on the place of imagination as well as technique and skill in creating the buildings, towns and cities in which we live.
Linda Cuttriss, Phillip Island
Beginnings and endings
March 14, 2016
Brilliant story, thanks! (As ever!) I was delighted to find Bernadette was Tom Gannon’s daughter. I never met either, but he wrote the most touching obituaries in the Times-Sentinel (maybe not exact name) in the late 1970s - early 1980s. My work included reading South Gippsland local papers of the era, and I loved his work.
Rob Youl, South Melbourne
Thank you Catherine Watson. A beautiful story about a beautiful woman. The sadness may diminish with time but will never end.
Bob Middleton, Jeetho West
Such a beautiful telling, Catherine. You have done Bernadette and her library proud. This is two degrees of separation - when I was a fill-in journalist for the ABC newsroom in Sale, Tom Gannon was a great support and generous provider of stories for our news bulletins. A remarkable family.
John Gascoigne, St Kilda
Thank you Catherine for a sketch of Bernadette's full life. It made me regret that her no-nonsense presence in the library made me afraid to get to know her better. Sounds as if I have missed much.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Alvie
From whoa to go
March 14, 2016
As usual, I found Miriam Strickland's article inspirational and entertaining.
When I find a piece of time, I intend to join Toastmasters, am immediately doing my tai chi and chi gong and expressive dancing will finish long-put-off gardening goal and pick lettuce for lunch. Many thanks, Miriam.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Alvie
Welcome to country
March 14, 2016
Another wonderful edition of Post. Just love what Frank writes and boy can he write!
Anne Davie, Ventor
Wonthaggi at the crossroads
March 9, 2016
Truly inspiring vision for our awesome slice of heaven here in the Bass Coast. Thanks Mark. I do believe there would be many committed locals and the odd blow-in that would love to get behind this splendid and do-able plan for our future in this magnificent part of Gippsland.
Maggie Camilleri, Wonthaggi
February 28, 2016
What absolutely fantastic ideas ... and so well said. I hope someone at the council is paying attention.
Rob Parsons, The Gurdies
Still all at sea
March 6, 2016
Talking about rusty start buttons, a question, that might be answered by The Auditor General one rainy day, is how much work is required to get the Big White Elephant back up to scratch and who pays for it.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
All aboard, please
March 8, 2016
I recall during the 1970s when Wonthaggi High School held their swimming sports at Korumburra, Jungle Sloans bus would be the last to leave and the first to arrive – a feat that would make Jack Brabham proud, given the state of the Korumburra road back then. I think the teachers drew straws to see who would be on Jungles’ bus for the trip.
Mark Robertson, Cape Paterson
From little things, big things grow
March 2, 2016
Well said Larry Hills! There is so much culture around this Shire and so many brilliant artists, musicians, choristers, film buffs, environmentalists – the list goes on and on! Let ALL – Council, community, ratepayers – set up ‘things’ to extoll the virtues of the diverse interests of our citizens. I attended the films of the last weekend’s film festival – such variety, and how lucky we are to have Keith Stephens and his Wonthaggi Cinema. Gratifying to see hundreds of patrons at various screenings. Also full marks to the Bass Coast Shire for replacing worn and broken seats in the auditorium during February. A gentle reminder to patrons to keep their feet OFF the backs of the seats in front of their row. Otherwise it will not be long before there are seats with torn and worn covers again.
Yvonne J. McRae, Wonthaggi
Would you like a chat with that?
February 28, 2016
Yes Vilya, what a sad state of affairs.Of course the food is only a part of the volunteers duty, a smile and a few words are very much appreciated by the people visited each day.
Margaret and Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
My parents retired to Nowra (the Wonthaggi of Shoalhaven in NSW). Dad was pretty "able" but Mum became a client of the local meals on wheels Service. Daily visits provided three priceless additions to their lives: brief respite for him, routine meal times and monitoring of the situation as Vilya describes in that beautiful article.
I don't want to argue against a hospital doing its best in this age of economic rationalism but that service went from fresh daily to frozen weekly when catering [to the hospitals and departmental nursing homes] was "regionalised" by grouping all the meal preparation (it had been known as "cooking" up to this point) in one central kitchen. The quality for hospital patients deteriorated as hot meals were transported in small trucks for up to 100 km after plating up.
My mother lost interest in the meals on wheels service as she had to thaw the things before removing them from the aluminium trays and microwaving them; trays of frozen meals filled their small freezer (which pensioner has a big freezer?) and her meal times lost routine.
That was 20 years ago. The more things change, the more they stay the same?
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
Many thanks to Vilya Congreave for her article which reports a short-sighted decision by one or a small group that affects many by taking away a daily lifeline for those receiving meals on wheels. She points out the untold extra mile that meals on wheels volunteers go. In other words, what they do is an important social service far beyond just delivering meals. Who makes decisions like the one to change the service from five times a week to once a week? (Similarly the closure of Wonthaggi Info Centre) Why doesn’t this person or persons consult with the people at the coalface instead of making questionable decisions with possibly disastrous consequences? And at short notice. Please, whoever made the decision, belatedly consult with people like Vilya Congreave and their clients. Even better, join a volunteer on a delivery and see how appreciated they and their service are.
Meryl Tobin, The Gurdies
I read with great interest Vilya's account of her 32 years with meals on wheels. What a wonderful commitment. My mother in England had a similar commitment and was saddened when the service in Cornwall was outsourced to a private company and she was no longer needed. Knowing Vilya, and knowing my mother, the recipients of the meals will have missed out greatly by not having those visits.
It makes it even more important that we all try to keep our eyes and ears and hearts open to the rewards of a relationship with people with so much to share.
Hilary Stuchbery
To let: centennial centre, almost new
March 6, 2016
We find it absolutely outrageous for the Bass Coast Council to be so arrogant as to attempt to close the Wonthaggi visitor information centre without community consultation and without releasing the report that recommended the closure to the community. In the press we read that the Council expects to save $3 million over 10 years by closing the VIC. We must be given a copy of the report to review these figures.
Frank Schooneveldt, Goat Island Gallery
February 25, 2016
I am horrified the council has decided that a town Wonthaggi's size can't support an information centre. Surely a bit of lateral thinking could have maintained this valuable service. Even lobbying to having the V/line buses stop there and selling local produce may have increased the demand. But to decide that a tourist district of Wonthaggi/Inverloch’s size doesn't need an information centre is ludicrous. Even towns the size of Creswick have a tourist information centre!
Maxine Wright, Kilcunda
On both a personal and professional level we were very disappointed to hear about the closure of the Wonthaggi visitor information centre. There appears to be a lack of vision by our council. So what is shire's vision for the increasingly major activity of tourism? We believe it is unjust to compare activity levels at Wonthaggi Visitors Information Centre at the Centennial location to Newhaven, surely one of the busiest VIC's in the regional Victoria given its links to activities on Phillip Island.
The Wonthaggi Information Centre performs a valuable service not only to tourists and travellers but also to new residents of Wonthaggi. The current location also copes well with caravans and buses.
We can only imagine the impact it will have on local tourist destinations such as the State Coal Mine. The downgrading of the service is, we believe, a retrograde step.
We are grateful for the high level professional service given by those at Wonthaggi and the friendly, knowledgeable input of the volunteers.
Mary Schooneveldt, Goat Island Gallery
February 21, 2016
Isn’t it wonderful! Wonthaggi, regional centre for the shire, loses another icon. The beautiful information centre, celebrating the bi-centennial of Australia and the mining history of the town, joins the empty shops scattered throughout the Wonthaggi CBD.
Perhaps the main town in the shire should be Cowes or Inverloch. There seems to be plenty of ratepayers’ money for more admin. staff, wages, cars, mobile phones and on the list goes.
In the financial scheme of things, the “loss” incurred by the Wonthaggi info centre is small. So visitors to Wonthaggi are advised (by a hoarding at the town’s entrance, perhaps) to by-pass Wonthaggi, continue to Inverloch and find out about the shire there. Pathetic!
Yvonne McRae, Wonthaggi
1. I travel regularly through regional Australia; all have information destinations.
2. Wonthaggi is a growth area, therefore we need to keep the information centre open.
3. I have been involved in the sport of motorcycling racing for nearly four decades. The attraction to this area is immense and have noticed the growth in internationals and interstaters staying for a month, instead of a few days.
4. If the tourism centre is unable to perform in an economic manner, bring in an expert to develop.
Susan Edwards
Lower rates? It’s our call
February 25, 2016
A rate cut at the expense of infrastructure is short sighted - in the long run we all lose. I'm all for ensuring that our rates are well spent and council workers and contractors give good value for money and that our rates are not wasted on frivolous things like morning teas. But I am against making savings when it comes to infrastructure and services that improve the quality of life of all residents and makes Bass Coast an attractive, safe, healthy and convenient place to live and a desirable destination for tourists.
So please, stop listening to the whingeing minority and keep building new infrastructure and maintain our current resources and let's become an innovative exciting place to live.
Maxine Wright, Kilcunda
February 25, 2016
I support investment in infrastructure over rate reductions. l appreciate the work the shire is doing to enhance the look of towns in the shire. This is not just good for residents but good for tourism. Keep up the good work.
John Wright, Kilcunda
February 25, 2016
A citizen-driven public petition with 2903 signatures requests the Essential Services Commissioner to refuse any application by the Bass Coast Council for exemption from the Rate Cap.
This was a remarkable result given it was driven across the shire by concerned citizens.
The Council CEO is correct when he reports that there is very small segment of ratepayers who oppose the rate cap. Sampling continues to put that segment at well under three persons for every 100. The absolutely overwhelming response (97 per cent) on the street in the past 31 days is that council must operate with efficiency and stay within the rate cap.
Phillip Island delivered 1343 signatures and 1560 came from mainly Inverloch – Cape Paterson – Wonthaggi - Grantville, with even Glen Alvie making a contribution.
The Petition will be lodged before February 26 with the Council and Essential Services Commissioner as an expression of the community sentiments supporting the State Government imposed rate cap.
Mohan de Run, Inverloch, lead peitioner
February 19, 2016
I didn’t like a lot of the questions in the online survey on rates asking people to rate/rank capital works projects.
I think the survey questions are out of sync with public expectations from those who were at the recent forums. My understanding was that the rating/ranking of capital works projects was not to be done at this time. It is difficult to know what each project is about – so it’s very unfair to ask for judgement when the individual project details/scope/reasons are not available.
The first step is to let all ratepayers know the outcome of the meetings then get Council to lock in on them at its February or March meetings. Only then, with the confidence that councillors are on-side with the ratepayers can council go back to the ratepayers and try to prioritise capital works (that will need its own sessions).
I think Council should ignore all answers to capital works questions in survey monkey at this stage.
Ray McNamara, San Remo
A voice for the wilderness
February 25, 2016
Bravo, Liz McDonald for expressing so eloquently what conservationists and other lovers of nature and all who appreciate the sustainability of our natural environment have been saying for years!
The biggest issue we see in the Bass Coast Shire is the need for a sustainable environment and Liz McDonald’s desire to protect The Gurdies bush is part of satisfying this need.
To quote the council’s own Environmental Sustainability Plan 2008-13, p14: "One of the most critical local environmental issues for Bass Coast is that there is less than 10% of indigenous bush remaining from pre 1700s. There is research and a common acceptance that if there is 35% cover of native vegetation then 75-80% of species can survive, but below that level extinctions can accelerate rapidly."
In 1996 nearly 1139 people signed a petition for the creation of a Westernport Bay National Park which would incorporate the Hurdy Gurdy Creek, The Gurdies and Grantville Nature Conservation Reserves and other Crown Land, including the coastal strip between the mouths of the Bass and Lang Lang Rivers. Although these people had the vision to see that, to retain our wildlife, we have to ensure they have land and wildlife corridors to operate in, our council and State Government of the time did not have similar vision.
So, 20 years later, we still must fight the same battles. Where are our councillors and council staff ready to stand with these 1139 petitioners, and no doubt many more with similar views now? Which of them will support, in the short terms, all areas of remnant vegetation being declared Rural Conservation Zones and not being allowed to become Rural Activity Zones?
Then, if protected now, these bush areas, in the long term, could still become part of the bigger vision, the Westernport National Park.
Meryl Tobin, Grantville
February 21, 2016
Thanks for your article, Liz. It demonstrates how hard it is for individuals to be heard and understood when they stand in the path of a bureaucratic juggernaut.
Good luck to you and your small band as you strive to protect an environment we love.
Gill Heal, Jeetho West
Man versus nature
April 12, 2016
Enjoyed Geoff’s adventures with our eight-legged friends. Living with an arachnophobe, I get a lot of practice catching them using the reliable container and card method, then taking them for a ride somewhere to a safe distance from our house, and hopefully far enough away from other people’s houses too.
Miriam Strickland, Wonthaggi
February 16, 2016
I really enjoyed Geoff Ellis’s article. Could recognise and empathise but I was cured of those horrors when it comes to THE huntsman in '83. Living in the Dandenongs, they were daily visitors. I would nervously catch them, line up the jars on the kitchen bench. There they would wait for Laz's return from night shift to regain freedom. On our last night, there were 6 jail jars waiting.
Later that morning, I was saying goodbye to the garden when one ran across my hand. It was like being brushed with soft French velvet and totally took my fear with it.
Geoff's portrait is of a beautiful, benign face. A Bug-Catcher is a wonderful temporary home and a way of observing these critters.
After moving to Wonthaggi we experienced fewer invasions but one hot summer day, I was taught a lesson about awareness of creature comforts! It was one of the most memorable encounters of a natural kind. Armed with my faithful Bug C I trapped a very large huntsman from – you guessed it – behind a painting!
Its release was interrupted by a long phone call. I had carelessly placed the BC on the porch table in the sun and on return, was horrified to find a rather stressed looking spider. I decided to sprinkle it with water and to my surprise it moved to where the water trickled down the cylinder and as I watched, sucked the drops.
It is quite amazing to see water slowly being drawn into a spider's mouth, drop by drop, at eye level through transparent plastic.
Long may our fellow travellers of all description accompany and enrich us on life's roads.
Heather Tobias, Wonthaggi
February 13, 2016
As for spiders I see around the house, car, shed, I look the other way and hope My husband does not see them before they find a crack to go home to. Everyone's welcome in my home.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
Lower rates? It’s our call
February 18, 2016
I think the survey questions on the council’s website asking respondents to rate/rank capital works projects are out of sync with public expectations from those who were at the recent forums on rates. It is difficult to know what each project is about – so it’s very unfair to ask for judgement when the individual project details/scope/reasons are not available.
My understanding was that the rating/ranking of capital works projects was not to be done at this time. The first step is to let all ratepayers know the outcome of the meetings, then get the council to lock in on them at its February or March meetings.
Only then, with the confidence that councillors are on-side with the ratepayers, can council go back to the rate payers and try to prioritise capital works (that will need its own sessions). I think Council should ignore all answers to capital works questions in survey monkey at this stage.
Ray McNamara, San Remo
A good read
February 18, 2016
This weekend I finally had the time to put my feet up and savour this year's three BCPs. Well done Post. Very strong, well balanced editions; I was particularly taken by The Winds of Change. I also found the prominence given to Mayor Crugnale's piece on meeting the Premier another reminder of the value of independent voices in the media.
It was also refreshing to share the dreams of Braxton Lane. Local Tourism needn't be all about Penguins and Motorcycle Racing. Thanks to unfettered climate change our weather matches the Gold Coast so why not a few theme parks?
Keep up the good work, BCP!
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
June 21, 2016
A two-horse race for sure, but every now and then longshots get up, especially in McMillan. In 1972 Henry Hewson (Country Party) became the member for McMillan after receiving only 16.6 per cent of the primary vote. This is probably the lowest primary vote achieved by a successful candidate in any Australian election. Hewson got over the line with a flow of preferences from a disgruntled former Liberal member running as an independent and from the DLP.
The Victorian Liberal Party created a three-way contest in 1974 by fielding Liberal candidate Armitage against Hewson. Hewson's allegedly confusing how-to-vote card (using Liberal Party colours rather than Country Party colours and headed "Liberal-Country Party Senate Team") caused controversy during the campaign. Hewson picked up enough preferences from the DLP to overtake Armitage on the third count. He then won the seat on the fourth count after Armitage's preferences flowed overwhelmingly to him.
As for Flinders, well, in 1929, the Member for Flinders, Prime Minister Stanley Bruce, lost his seat during an election fought on industrial relations.
My advice to candidates in both seats is "don't give up till July 3 and then ask for a recount."
My advice to voters is to consider the largesse that flows to swinging and marginal electorates and look around on their way to the polling centre.
Geoff Ellis, Wattlebank
Member of the Wonthaggi-Bass branch of the ALP.
A sense of entitlement
June 23, 2016
Just what is it that you don’t understand, Eddie? As a follow up to my article last week regarding men’s violence against women, I’ve listened with interest this week to the debate surrounding Eddie McGuire and his misguided comments directed at Caroline Wilson. Perhaps we should thank Eddie for helping to give the issue oxygen.
Eddie doesn’t understand why his comments are a problem. He says “in my mind there is nothing wrong with what I said”. Well Eddie, that is the very heart of the problem. When men like you holding leadership roles in our community think that your words and comments, your intimidation and bullying, your threatening and insensitive gestures and gang mentality towards women, are acceptable then we have a real problem.
You think this is joke. Pass it off as friendly banter. Male bonding. A few blokes sitting around having a laugh. Cracking a gag. Then explain your jokes to the families who have lost a loved one to the violent actions of a man. You won’t need to look too far to find such a family. Currently the number stands at more than one a week.
Whilst you’re talking to the families, Eddie, explain why we live in a community where men’s violence against women is the highest contributor to death or injury for women aged between 15 and 44. If we continue to accept these comments as just friendly banter then we will never make inroads into this problem.
Interestingly, when surveyed, only 60 per cent of Herald Sun readers thought that Eddie’s comments were inappropriate. More disappointing was the view of Jeff Kennett in the same paper when he passed the comments off as a “humorous exchange”. Would the comments have stirred such debate if the subject was a man, he asked?
Sorry, Jeff, but you’re completely missing the point. They weren’t directed at a man. They were directed at a woman and were meant to be physically intimidating and threatening.
Remember the words of Ken Lay – school yard banter can later evolve into sexist jokes and catcalls and sink further to where it becomes sexual assault and domestic violence.
Wake up, Eddie. You’ve once again displayed your ignorance and failed in your role as an influential leader in our community.
Brian Paynter, MP for Bass
June 20, 2016
Having just read Brian's article on violence against women , and listening to todays coverage of the Caroline Wilson/Eddie McGuire scandal, I wish to display my disgust at the "blokey" culture of belittling people - same goes for the recent article about councillor-bashing.
The comments of Eddie, James Brayshaw and Danny Frawley, so-called leaders and "wise men" of the footy world, were infantile, boorish and destructive, particularly as this round of AFL was supposed to be in support of the violence problem.
Their pathetic attempt at schoolboy humour is archaic and should be stamped out, their carefully worded "apologies" arewoefully inadequate. Violence against anyone is not on, and joking about it is possibly worse. I feel almost ashamed of being a male, but reading Brian's words I know that we are not all tarred with the same brush.
Thanks Brian, for shining a light on the bullies. What next, Eddie - pulling the wings off a few flies? That would be a great joke ...
Mark Robertson, Wonthaggi
First whale of the season
June 20, 2016
Another fabulous and atmospheric photo from Lisa Schonberg - not only does she capture the astounding beauty of our Bass Coast backyard, but always sees the human/wildlife interaction, both good and bad. May you have many more whale encounters this season. Mark Robertson, Wonthaggi
My sea change
June 11, 2016
There I was reading the Post - not even noting the name of the author - and then saw my name referred in it as the teacher who showed the writer the difference between marketing and advertising. David Norton was quite a remarkable student - and was bound to succeed. It only goes to show what a wonderful integrated community that we live in where we can all help each other. David is of course now next to ArtSpace Wonthaggi and has helped us to do short video. What goes around - comes around.
Liane Arno, Wonthaggi
Great BCP issue especially Natasha's cartoon.
Bob Middleton, Jeetho West
June 4, 2016
I remember all of this as a friend of David and his family ... inbetween all of what has been written, David also used to work for me delivering catalogues for customers to their letterbox in San Remo for many years.
I love David’s business and have bought many good DVDs and history books from him.
Meet him leaving a garage sale with boxes of great books and dvd’s ... saying to me “I have all the good ones”.
When I found out he has put his business up for sale, I said to him “Why now? I would have loved to buy it 15 years earlier, but I don’t have that time in my life left.” What a great buy for the book lover. I understand life must move on, but David is an icon of our book store.
Noelene Lyons
Cats under curfew
June 11, 2016
I’ve just been browsing the BCP and I’m a bit late on this one but would like to have my tuppence worth! I believe the sooner society stops blaming the cat and putting the responsibility where it belongs, with the owners, the sooner the problem will be resolved. It is natural for cats to hunt and if their humans allow them to do it, they will. I have three indoor cats and I’ve had a cat run for fifteen years, which I even brought down from Sydney when I relocated. The cats are safer, I know where they are (as opposed to being squashed on the road or getting into fights) and nature is safe ... except for the cheeking lizards who think they can dash through the run without being caught! Therefore, the humans need to be educated into understanding that they are the problem, not the cat.
Pamela Jacka, Wonthaggi
Nice work if you can get it
June 5, 2016
Just read Geoff's article on job searching, he must be younger than me. Wonthaggi's "job agency" in the early eighties consisted of turning up at the counter of Bluey Reillys drapery shop in Graham Street (near the Caledonian Hotel – fortuitously!) where there was zero privacy, and a wooden box full of job prospects. Depending on if you appeared dishevelled (ie. a surfer) or respectable, you received the tick for another fortnight’s dole, followed by a celebratory visit to the Cally front bar – if the surf wasn't pumping.
In contrast, my disability job provider has many layers of staff, glossy corporate mission statements, and a complete lack of actual assistance. In 12 months of attendance they are yet to help me even write a resume. No wonder the lucky country is but a pale shadow of itself! I wonder at the comparison between Bluey's costs and that of the modern version – something for the "responsible authorities" to ponder when they next compare the lifters and leaners.
Mark Robertson, Wonthaggi
June 5, 2016
Geoff’s article on the CES brought back memories of my own dealings with that great institution in the 1980s. I used to spend six months of the year in New Zealand (avoiding the Melbourne summer) and six months in Melbourne (avoiding the NZ winter). On my annual return to Melbourne, I’d head to the CES to see what was on the jobs board. In those days, staff would arrange job interviews and ask kindly whether you had enough money for the fare to get there and to pay your rent until you got paid!
Often I landed a job the same day. Memorable gigs included working as a kitchen hand at Collingwood Football Club, working in a nursing home and writing a local history. Bring back the CES!
Catherine Watson, Wonthaggi
Cats under curfew
May 22, 2016
What a great development and long overdue to save our remaining indigenous birds and animals from roaming cats.
Marilyn Shaw
It’s about time council did something to curb this threat to native birds. Cats need to be domesticated in the absolute sense of the word: confined to the home. Native fauna has no effective defence against this western import.
Andrew Shaw
Inspired by the possibilities
May 18, 2016
On Friday May 13, I was fortunate to be invited to attend a community building master class, organised by the Bass Coast Shire Council.
Two excellent speakers, Cormac Russell and Peter Kenyon, each world-renowned experts in community leadership, provided insights into strategies towards positive community development.
I left feeling happy, energised, and even inspired by the possibilities discussed. I would like to thank the council for providing an opportunity to address, in a creative way, future challenges.
Jan Fleming, Cowes
Singing the song of angry men
May 30, 2016
Re: Peter Brown's comments on the photograph of former Prime Minister Tony Abbott, a picture is said to be worth a thousand words. What I saw in the picture reminded me of the mischievous look you sometimes see in a six or seven-year-old schoolboy. Then again, maybe the look of someone who has had a drink or two.
I once saw a documentary about a photographer who was commissioned to do portraits of famous people. His goal was to capture the person's character in a fraction of a second, which could not happen while the subject remained aware of the camera's presence. He needed to catch them off guard, preferably thinking about something other than the camera. He said that sometimes he had to follow the subject around for hours, if not days, waiting for that lapse of attention.
While I don't accuse Tony Abbott of creating abusive and demeaning behaviour – it’s been around for some time now – he most certainly participated in it. While I, too, recollect Mr Abbott being courteous in front of the camera, I also remember the sometimes disgraceful manner in which he addressed political opponents under parliamentary privilege. Standing in front of the banner which read “Ditch the witch” also lowered the bar. I also recall at least two instances in which Mr Abbott was caught by an eavesdropping microphone being less than sincere and courteous. He introduced into parliament a bill giving Australians the right to offend one another, as if the right to be offensive in the name of free speech was all we were lacking. I give him credit for withdrawing the bill. I also give him credit for his firefighting and lifesaving. These activities seem to bring out the best in him.
We could be excused for thinking abusing someone is an acceptable form of expression and means of dealing with those who don't see things the way we do. Politicians, radio presenters, newspaper columnists, talkback callers and writers of letters to the editor ooze venom; some of it brutally blunt, some insidiously subtle and deceitful. And so ill-mannered behaviour and disregard for another person's dignity flows out onto the streets, into the traffic and retail sectors, finally ending up on a beach on the end of a leash that is not attached to a dog.
A couple of summers ago, I saw two unleashed dogs meet on a crowded Phillip Island beach. After a brief introduction, one took the other in its mouth. The owners of the biter had them separated before the owner of the bitee arrived on the scene. She was elderly, and unwrapping the leash from round her wrist, she began lashing out, attempting to whip the offending dog while screaming about a vet's bill. In a most undignified display, she fell over, continuing her angry tirade. That sort of explosion takes days to get out of your system and longer if you choose to. This topic warrants further scrutiny.
John Coldebella, Wonthaggi
May 20, 2016
Aggressive attacks on females in public office by the commercial media is part of a long tradition. Think of what Janine Haines, Joan Kirner, Susan Davies, Christine Nixon and Julia Gillard, to name just a few, had to endure.
The negativity towardsour own first-term councillors started with a beat-up front page story in a local newspaper about poisoned vegetables at Newhaven.
Despite their inexperience, I see the current councillors as the most listening, socially aware, broadly educated and up-to-date we have had.
The previous council had a free ride in commercial media, even when changing the coastal town boundaries without consultation.
The role of commercial media is to manufacture opinion, set cultural priorities and make people feel anxious, deprived and inadequate enough to turn to consumerism or retail therapy, thus increasing advertising revenue. Is there a correlation between consumption of commercial media and life dissatisfaction?
The message is to leave local government to establishment blokes and just buy stuff that’s in our ads. Perhaps a 45-square house will solve your problem.
Frank Coldebella, Wonthaggi
May 18, 2016
As I sit in my comfy bed reading your publication, enjoying Tim Shannon's words, I think about all the views and comments I hear from different members of the community. As a beauty therapist for 15 years full time in Cowes and now part time, I really do hear it all.
The community of Bass Coast is so divided, so fractured, and sometimes blinded by their own needs and desires for what they think is needed or wanted or correct in their eyes.
What if your publication ran a series of town hall tea and talk sessions? Visiting as many tiny towns and large ones alike in the shire. Have a meet and greet, be unbiased, use a white board or butchers’ paper. Gather everyone's concerns, grievances, praise, fears and feedback? Its a very diverse and divided shire with the “us against them” vibe strongly showing through. I believe the only way forward is a united, not a fractured, shire.
Imagine the joy in listing the good, bad and ugly that every tiny pocket of community see as their truths ... Oh the charts you could make.
A warm word of welcome and a smile goes a long way to bring folk together, I feel everyone needs to know it’s not just about Phillip Island versus the mainland. Gosh, who listens to Farmer Tom or that single mum?
So many towns, so many folk without a voice. It's an election year, the candidates need to hear their community's voices, I mean actually hear, not just say “Yes, I'm listening!” As thats a sign they are not.
I hear so much negativity on my days in Cowes. The district is losing great passionate people who just tune out. The holiday home owners are mostly uninterested. And people still don't understand the council doesn’t control the roads, did not close the hospital, and how will they pay all the fabulous district nurses.
I've not expressed any personal views. I see folk from the Stand Alone, the for and against, the greens, the carve-it-up crew, the close the bridge gang, the hills folk, and the we-need-this-and-that type.
We get the government we deserve, no matter what level of government it is.
Kylie Joyful, Hawksburn
May 12, 2016
This is a poignant article. I disagree with much of what our elected council does and their perceived incompetence irritates me frequently, but they should not be abused for being human.
I do, however, feel that accusing Tony Abbott of creating, supporting or promulgating such abuse is neither correct nor helpful. Phil Wright has enough experience in local government to know what he is doing - stirring the pot - no doubt intended as a political backhander. "It is alright to abuse a conservative, they are the bad guys."
Tony Abbott is a scrapper, and is by no means perfect, but I don't believe he is responsible for the poor behaviour of others in our society, any more than Paul Keating or Bob Menzies. My recollections of the man are that he is generally direct but courteous. Those who oppose him are more often discourteous and mean of spirit.
The choice of photograph in the article confirms my thoughts that those in the media choose to portray our politicians in a certain light. The accompanying photograph suggests a snake or devil; deliberately chosen to direct our view? Tony eating an onion would have been more honest.
The real culprit is, I believe, the electronic media which allows subliminal messages of hatred to groom the morals of our society without proper check. Fast and ever-present coverage which always wants to cut others down. Tall poppies are getting shorter. We rightly spurn the 'anti whatever' hate-speak emails, but condone the abuse of our elected politicians on Facebook, TV, radio and elsewhere.
Television and radio news-bites tend to push an image which supports our Australian political tribalism. We, the anonymous public, are groomed to hate and disrespect those with whom we disagree. That may be why our councillors are abused.
Peter Brown, Glen ForbesMay 12, 2016Thanks Catherine for your article. I agree that Tony Abbott and his party were unfortunately rewarded for the aggression and personal abuse that he brought into political debate in Australia. We all remember his three words crafted to put forward his views and that of his party. That was just spin from the large group of communication specialists in his office who did not want any depth to discussions on policy. His relentless personal attacks on people including former prime ministers who did not agree with him or his party is something that was picked up by the media and exploited. Our society needs time to heal from that onslaught and those that benefited need to challenge their acceptance of this behaviour in return for power and financial gain.
Our councillors receive the trickledown effect of this rewarded abuse and some people use this form of perceived validated communication so they can make their views heard. Our councillors really do need to have broad shoulders in their dealings with our community.
Jeff Nottle, Newhaven
May 7, 2016
Thank you for this article. It provides excellent insights and the comments reported reinforces to me the quality of the people we have representing us. When I compare them to the Councils that went before them they are head and shoulders above them.
I personally witnessed councillors being subjected to aggression last Monday night. We had four councillors in the room, and while I could always finds points to debate with them, they are all excellent people giving up their time to inform us residents. We also had the consultant who prepared the draft Tourism Strategy.
They were harangued from a point of view rather than facts. The CEO in his absence was also singled out for attack. These people came to a meeting just to put a point of view - not listen. While they are passionate they are ill informed and their facts are one sided.
They are also condescending and rude; especially to councillors but also the rest of the meeting and in particular to the chairperson.
Michael Whelan, Cowes
I am saddened and disappointed at the often disgraceful treatment by individuals meted out to the Bass Coast councillors while they are trying to carry out the role for which they were elected. I was particularly struck and chilled by the statement "You disgust me!" levelled at Cr Kimberley Brown.
This same phrase has been spat at me on two occasions years ago, while I was MP for Ringwood. Both by different middle aged men, at my face, with no one nearby. The first was in Parliament house dining room, delivered by an opposition MP, in response to a speech I had given on family violence. The other was at a local public meeting about work cover legislation. Both very public spaces.
This abuse was unexpected and shocking. I felt quite frightened for my personal safety. These personal insults , so full of hate, never leave you. Those men, at that time, felt they had won their argument hands down, because of the numbing shock I obviously felt.
Each of them felt it was OK to speak to me in such a degrading manner. These men feel an entitlement to reduce, shame, cower and ultimately silence women. They feel their voice is the only voice entitled to be heard.
No more! Today I would stand my ground, not shrink, look him in the eye, stand toe to toe (very hard when they are so much taller then you!) and say very loudly "This man is threatening me!"
Women everywhere - don't take this publicly unacceptable behaviour! (It is of course unacceptable privately as well, but a note of caution here! Women can get beaten mercilessly if they fight back.)
The councillors can and do expect a measure of robust discussion and responses to proposed council policy or actions, but I would never agree or accept that any councillor has "signed up" for outrageous unacceptable abuse, derision and threatening behaviour. No matter what the issue is, they are entitled to be addressed and listened to with respect.
Being an older person, I subscribe to the view that all manner of difficulties, disputes and issues can be negotiated and usually resolved over time.
I sincerely hope to see an outbreak of respect between us all in Bass Coast.
Kay Steches, Surf Beach
Thank you, Catherine, for revealing what our councillors have to put up with from some, when these people's demands are not met. Personally, I am eternally grateful to people who are willing to sit through hours of what, I imagine, can be boring meetings to deal with the minutiae of day-to-day running of our shire, people who take the responsibility of budgeting with decreasing revenue and ever-increasing demands, who take the responsibility of planning ahead for the benefit of our shire, people who spend hours in consultation with their constituents when making decisions.
Councillors, I feel humbled and grateful for your tireless work to benefit our shire. I apologise for the abuse of disaffected people to whom Tony Abbot gave permission to be rude. Please know that there are many of us who appreciate and value your work.
Thank you.
Felicia De Stefabo, Glen Forbes
Wondrous strange
May 7, 2016
Professor Shannon’s thought-provoking articles continue to challenge our understanding of evolutionary architecture. Are we blessed, threatened or challenged by technology. The unlimited expansion of ideas driven by technological change allows us to escape familiarity and apply our creative vision to embrace the unfamiliar.
Ian Samuel
Petrol price puzzles
May 12, 2016
I drove up to Melbourne the day before the Post published my study of petrol prices. There is a garage within sight of where I was staying. On arrival petrol was 99.9 cents. Anxious to go out for dinner I decided to fill up the next day. Dawn rose over 124.9 cents signs. Infuriated due to my own sloth I drove away and tanked up at the last pump before Citylink. This added an extra two cents per litre. Oddly, the cheapest fuel on the return Leg was 106.9 cents at Koo Wee Rup. Back in Wonny there had been no movement so unleaded was now cheaper than Melbourne. I have cancelled my bulk order for jerry cans and am seeking counselling while working on a scheme for advance purchase of fuel by the litre when it is cheap; a cross between gift vouchers and the futures market.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
May 7, 2016
Couldn't agree more on comments about the ridiculous variation in prices across a few kilometres. Last Saturday the variation between San Remo and Cowes was 14 cents a litre. If you were a really loyal grocery shopper with a petrol discount you we're really only ripped off by 10 cents a litre!
On the Monday morning I drove to outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne and loyalty customer in the same group could purchase petrol at 20 cents per litre less than Cowes!
Supposedly there is a supermarket price war on in Cowes and Phillip Island but it certainly doesn't apply to petrol!
Do these companies think we buy petrol but don't drive anywhere? Because they clearly think we're stupid! It's good to support local business but not at any price.
Chris Day, San Remo
Swell and spray
April 24, 2016
Having read Linda’s wonderful piece about the Blowhole with the majesty of the Nobbies in the photos, I thought I would send you the poem I wrote when the Nobbies Action Group was formed to fight the inappropriate building.
Anne Davie, Ventnor
Ode to the Nobbies
This sentinel in time
this grandeur of rock and breaker
caressed by wind and rain
majestic and powerful.
The dipping gull, the boisterous seal
the diving penguin, bear testimony
to a special place
their sanctuary.
To its rocky platform
the Aborigines did come
for shellfish, to feast
and to tell stories of the dreamtime.
And in our frantic lives
we need this place
to embrace the wind
to feel the space.
To hear the call of the bird
and the sound of the sea
to rejoice in the beauty
and replenish the soul.
This sentinel of time
this grandeur of rock and breaker
caressed by wind and rain
watches in silence.
A Rain of Love
April 24, 2016
Thank you Fiona for the beautiful, sad, heroic story I will never get tired of hearing. In my eyes you are a heroine, but also privileged to experience the love, to be in a position to help.
Felicia De Stefano, Glen Forbes
Rubbish and other useful stuff
April 21, 2016
We regularly attend the Morwell, Bairnsdale, Mornington and Hampton Park Tip shops. As mentioned, it creates employment, reduces landfill costs and recycles things that would otherwise just be thrown into a hole.
We have picked up sheets of colourbond to build a chook house and kennel. Found some office chairs that were a fraction of the cost of a cheap student office chair. As things come in at differing times of the day, these shops are always buzzing with happy shoppers.
David Norton, Wonthaggi
April 12, 2016
Impressive stats from the Canberra Tip shop do encourage me to come along to the WNC on 13th April. I wonder how long the Canberra shop took to establish itself to this degree? And the larger population would have a lot to do with it's success. So I'd better attend the meeting to ask my questions.
Sue Packham, Woolamai
The tyranny of choice
April 14, 2016
I am just thinking about the decisions I make at the supermarket too. Is it Australian produce? Is it Australian owned? Which number preservatives, colours etc?. How much sugar, salt, saturated fats, trans fats does it contain. How much packaging is included? Shampoos and toothpaste with chemicals I can’t even pronounce. What’s the use by/best by date? Comparing price /100g for value. Is it ‘fair trade’? Is it good for me?
Remember seeing a dietitian on the TV one day saying “The less processed food looks like the original product the less good it is likely to be for you” (eg. cheese versus cheesels).
I usually end up just buying fresh meat, fruit and vegetables, what’s on special and what’s Australian.
So hard and rarely able to satisfy all requirements.
Maybe we should go back to the days of old – salt instead of toothpaste, yellow blocks of Velvet soap for washing self, hair, dishes and clothes, a frayed twig as a toothbrush.
Libby Lambert, Bena
Many thanks, Geoff Ellis, for lots of laughs. I also chose happiness with what I have. As for toothpaste I buy it at health stores, not so much choice. Lots of food I get from our garden, or from Grow Lightly, a store in Korumburra which stocks locally grown and produced food.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
Geoff's article on the joy on FREE choice was not only very funny but also well thought out & informative. Thanks Geoff.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
Love the cartoon!
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
What’s right with the council
April 15, 2016
I would like to join with Kay Setches and Linda Cuttriss and compliment the good deeds of the Bass Coast Council. But I cannot bring myself to be that magnanimous because the council is not a uniformly consistent performer on many fronts.
I applaud the staff with whom I come into contact on a regular basis. However, the executive team is pretty new to Bass and are still to demonstrate that they can be trusted to deliver on their promises.
I take heart rom the recent performance and words of Mark Brady at the community forums discussing long-term financial plans and rate capping. He told the audience at the Cowes meeting that he “got it” – meaning he was hearing the predominant and would shape his future actions upon those sentiments. I hope that he can maintain that position and that other members of the senior team will follow suit.
I have reason to be sceptical. For years the Bawden administration treated those of us who turned up at public meetings or made submissions on community matters with utter contempt. Hopefully we see an end to bad management decisions such as the ripping up of sealed streets. This sort of unnecessary stupidity angers large numbers of residents.
I hope the rate capping consultation may have set a new and commendable trend.
Of greater concern still is the lack of leadership by the councillors. I know they too inherited a broken system when they were elected. No planning strategy, no infrastructure strategy, no waste management strategy, no funding strategy, no policy on community consultation, and so the list goes on.
They have still not made much progress. Yes, they caved in to the farmers and lowered farm rates by more than $1 million but, they had no plan to replace the $1 million other than to ask the rest of us to pay more. They botched the relatively straightforward matter of dogs on beaches.
I say to Kay and others that they should continue in their efforts to applaud the good things the council does. I will do the same, but I will also continue to highlight the need for greater accountability as councillors and the senior executive proceed to redress the decades-long void of policies, strategies and governance which this shire has foisted on its staff, ratepayers and residents.
Ray McNamara, San Remo
April 1, 2016
What a refreshing change to read something positive about Bass Coast Council. The constant negativity has been wearing me down. There's so much emotion and so few reasoned arguments. From what I can see the councillors seem to work hard and do their best. Whenever I have dealings with council officers they are pleasant, responsive and helpful.
Of course, the council isn't perfect. It has to balance often conflicting community views, align with state government frameworks, work to specific funding criteria and meet quite high expectations with the smallest possible budget.
But, I do worry that all this negativity is divisive and unhealthy for our community. I worry that good people will balk from standing as councillors. I worry that a divided community is not attractive to State and Federal Government funding bodies that want to see the best bang for their buck. I am afraid that unless there's some negotiation, collaboration, even compromise, that we will all lose out.
Linda Cuttriss, Phillip Island
March 29, 2016
Whilst we enjoy the unilateral accolade comments for the present council from the former minister, the Hon Kay Setches, the retired Minister does highlight a important issue for the council to address in upcoming elections - whilst the Bass Coast Shire digs up sealed roads (yes 'dust suppressed' roads are sealed), many shire residents do not realise that if your sealed road is not maintained by VicRoads then there is a real possibility that in the next few years , your road will be dug up like the Esplanade in Surf Beach. Please remember to ask your candidate councillor what their position is on road maintenance?
Matt Gallagher, Smiths Beach
March 27, 2016
As a past Minister for Conservation, Forests and Land and Minister for Community Services in the Cain and Kirner Labor governments, maybe Kay Setches would like to investigate and comment on the council’s attempt, with their C140 amendment, to change the Gurdies Wildlife and Conservation area from Farming Zone to Rural Activity Zone and thus introduce tourists to the area at the expense of conservation and the native flora and fauna.
This is an excerpt from an expert witness statement for the Panel Hearing for the Bass Coast Planning Scheme Amendment C140: Rural Land Strategy Implementation from Chris Smyth of The Victorian National Parks Association:
“The Rural Activity Zone as shown in Map 1 (The Gurdies area) is broad-bush in its application and thus includes existing native vegetation cover. The permissible uses with or without permits include feedlot operations, timber production and land subdivision, all of which could result in the clearance of remnant vegetation cover from separate development applications under the planning scheme; effectively death by a thousand cuts.
“This cover is locally significant and should be part of any efforts to establish and maintain corridors to enhance the survival of regional native species: 17 mammal species, 130 bird species, 15 reptile species, and 339 native plants including more than 50 orchid species (as reported in the Sentinel Times 26 June 2012).
“The importance of this wildlife was recognised by the establishment of The Gurdies Conservation Reserve. It is now time the planning process provided clarity and certainty for wildlife beyond the boundaries of this reserve. This will require far more subtlety within planning scheme zones as opposed to the current broad-brush approach regarding the proposed Rural Activity Zone at The Gurdies.”
Maybe the council has got the conservation area right in Phillip Island but it is effectively trying to ruin our area by introducing a totally unnecessary change to the planning zone that up to 50 per cent of residents in the area are objecting to.
Rob Parsons, The Gurdies
Ministerial blitzkrieg hits town
April 4, 2016
One visit of a Government Minister is better than 10,000 words.
Six Government Ministers of the Andrews ALP Government coming to Bass Coast Shire and fanning out to visit, experience and, most importantly to listen and talk with local community members in so many locations, is an invaluable contribution to the collective understanding of Government to the needs, attractions and uniqueness of this Shire.
This is not just one voice in Government! - together with the recent visit of the Premier, Ministers being able to discuss and understand the issues that are on our minds will be
easier and much more efficient and effective.
Congratulations to Mayor Cr Jordan Crugnale in convincing the Premier of the need for Ministers to visit Bass Coast Shire.
This is about one third of the entire Ministry!
My memory is that this is the first time such close attention by State Government has been focused on the Bass region.
When I was a Minister in the Cain and Kirner Governments, Ministers used to travel en masse to regional Victoria holding Community Cabinets in much the same way. The Kennett Liberal National Co-Alition Government said this practice was a "waste of time and money" and stopped such activities.
It has been my view that a"whole of Government "approach is needed for this region because of the economic and environmental importance of this region to the economic well being of Victoria.
Realistically, the Bass Coast Community cant expect that every one of the dozens of issues raised will be the object of Government action. In fact most won't!
But the community can be assured the Government knows much more about Bass Shire and the people who live here, than they did the week prior to the visit.
Kay Setches, PhillipIsland
Taking the waters
Really enjoyed your article "Taking the Waters" and especially the beautiful photos of the bird life enjoying the bird bath. Feel inspired to get a bird bath into my garden soon.
Nola Smith
A flicker on the hill
April 4, 2016
Well said Geoff Ellis. We all need to take more responsibility about how we are governed, not just complain. Direct action also works if we join forces with other community members.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
April 1, 2016
An inarguable point was made in regards to an individual member's inability to influence the party of their choice. Decreasing membership numbers only make it easier for "the machine" to control outcomes.
In answer to the question of "where to now" for the Put Ricky 1st campaign: What about a Facebook page like the cool kids have. Ricky shouldn't bother with twitter, you reach a lot of people but only for a moment till the next twit arrives.
Then why not get him into a red two door car, preferably an older model with baby boomer appeall and get pics onto the cover of every motoring magazine distributed in Victoria. Every newsagent and supermarket magazine rack is a billboard. A "Ricky1" number plate could be probably be found.
After that ? Greg Hunt walks the length and breadth of Flinders to raise money for charity and meet his constituency. His performance as Minister for Environment speaks for itself but he still gets elected. Chris Buckingham and his caravan are clocking up the kms in McMillan to good effect. Ricky represents all of Victoria; that's a lot of wide open road ... he only needs 7.5% of us to put him first or second or third.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
March 27, 2016
Thanks Geoff Ellis. I agree – a voter backlash is in order and Ricky Muir has earned respect. From a startled rabbit he has shown a maturity and independence that we do not see from the big party people. The old Senate election system delivered an odd lot but relatively free thinkers that saved us from the worst of the Abbott excess. It sure beats voting for a lawyer in a dark suit who has probably never worked outside the political system or large party related law firm, the type the major parties throw up all the time.
I think you nail it when you point out the second stringers in the parliament and the Senate. They are the party drones that present reliable numbers and contribute nothing to the nation. We are better off with the real people we have now.
I would like to think that, as you say, you could join the big party and own it but the machines are too strong for that. They do not fail to disappoint. On this occasion Labor opposed the voting changes but only because they favour the Liberals – if Labor was in power, the roles would simply reverse.
You mention Xenophon – he would not have been elected the first time with the new system. His role is disappointing in that he is prepared to ride the advantage of being well known now. As for the Greens, well, what can you say?
Michael Whelan, Cowes
Geoff makes some good points about Ricky Muir. He is both a nobody and an everyman. The ridicule initially heaped on him has turned to widespread respect.
It makes me wonder if the Senate shouldn’t be selected by means of a raffle among the 20 million other nobodies who make up Australia.
In The Conversation, Professor John Dryzek from the University of Canberra recently wrote of Ricky Muir “It is his very ordinariness that makes him such a good senator.” (The proposed Senate voting change will hurt Australian democracy.)
He contends that while the role of the House of Representatives is to formulate and justify policy (thus requiring a high level of political skill), the role of the Senate is to listen to the arguments on both side and reflect on them with an open mind.
While party politicians are good at justifying, most have no ability to reflect.
The changes to Senate voting, Professor John Dryzek wrote, “will ensure the Senate is composed almost exclusively of career politicians, who are unrepresentative in the sense that they do not reflect the social composition of Australia, and also ensure that one of the last vestiges of reflection is purged from our parliamentary system.”
So Geoff, how do we promote a “Put Ricky First” campaign?
Catherine Watson, Wonthaggi
Cry freedom for other people’s grandchildren
April 4, 2016
Thank you Anne for going on our behalf. We were with you as we rallied in Wonthaggi for your success in Canberra. We, the South Gippsland Rural Australians for Refugees, look forward to hearing in detail what happened in Canberra when you come to address our meeting.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
March 27, 2016
What an inspiration the grandmothers in purple are. Future generations will surely wonder what disregard allowed children to be placed in detention. Haven't any consequences of the stolen children penetrated into the political thinking of our nation ? One has to say no. The lack of humanity shames me and how do we change it when both parties have the same policies !
Nerida Melsmith, Cape Woolamai
Order out of chaos
March 22, 2016
Thanks Tim for another beautifully written piece. I love the way you mesh the past and the present, compare and contrast the role of the various arts in architecture and shine a light on the place of imagination as well as technique and skill in creating the buildings, towns and cities in which we live.
Linda Cuttriss, Phillip Island
Beginnings and endings
March 14, 2016
Brilliant story, thanks! (As ever!) I was delighted to find Bernadette was Tom Gannon’s daughter. I never met either, but he wrote the most touching obituaries in the Times-Sentinel (maybe not exact name) in the late 1970s - early 1980s. My work included reading South Gippsland local papers of the era, and I loved his work.
Rob Youl, South Melbourne
Thank you Catherine Watson. A beautiful story about a beautiful woman. The sadness may diminish with time but will never end.
Bob Middleton, Jeetho West
Such a beautiful telling, Catherine. You have done Bernadette and her library proud. This is two degrees of separation - when I was a fill-in journalist for the ABC newsroom in Sale, Tom Gannon was a great support and generous provider of stories for our news bulletins. A remarkable family.
John Gascoigne, St Kilda
Thank you Catherine for a sketch of Bernadette's full life. It made me regret that her no-nonsense presence in the library made me afraid to get to know her better. Sounds as if I have missed much.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Alvie
From whoa to go
March 14, 2016
As usual, I found Miriam Strickland's article inspirational and entertaining.
When I find a piece of time, I intend to join Toastmasters, am immediately doing my tai chi and chi gong and expressive dancing will finish long-put-off gardening goal and pick lettuce for lunch. Many thanks, Miriam.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Alvie
Welcome to country
March 14, 2016
Another wonderful edition of Post. Just love what Frank writes and boy can he write!
Anne Davie, Ventor
Wonthaggi at the crossroads
March 9, 2016
Truly inspiring vision for our awesome slice of heaven here in the Bass Coast. Thanks Mark. I do believe there would be many committed locals and the odd blow-in that would love to get behind this splendid and do-able plan for our future in this magnificent part of Gippsland.
Maggie Camilleri, Wonthaggi
February 28, 2016
What absolutely fantastic ideas ... and so well said. I hope someone at the council is paying attention.
Rob Parsons, The Gurdies
Still all at sea
March 6, 2016
Talking about rusty start buttons, a question, that might be answered by The Auditor General one rainy day, is how much work is required to get the Big White Elephant back up to scratch and who pays for it.
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
All aboard, please
March 8, 2016
I recall during the 1970s when Wonthaggi High School held their swimming sports at Korumburra, Jungle Sloans bus would be the last to leave and the first to arrive – a feat that would make Jack Brabham proud, given the state of the Korumburra road back then. I think the teachers drew straws to see who would be on Jungles’ bus for the trip.
Mark Robertson, Cape Paterson
From little things, big things grow
March 2, 2016
Well said Larry Hills! There is so much culture around this Shire and so many brilliant artists, musicians, choristers, film buffs, environmentalists – the list goes on and on! Let ALL – Council, community, ratepayers – set up ‘things’ to extoll the virtues of the diverse interests of our citizens. I attended the films of the last weekend’s film festival – such variety, and how lucky we are to have Keith Stephens and his Wonthaggi Cinema. Gratifying to see hundreds of patrons at various screenings. Also full marks to the Bass Coast Shire for replacing worn and broken seats in the auditorium during February. A gentle reminder to patrons to keep their feet OFF the backs of the seats in front of their row. Otherwise it will not be long before there are seats with torn and worn covers again.
Yvonne J. McRae, Wonthaggi
Would you like a chat with that?
February 28, 2016
Yes Vilya, what a sad state of affairs.Of course the food is only a part of the volunteers duty, a smile and a few words are very much appreciated by the people visited each day.
Margaret and Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
My parents retired to Nowra (the Wonthaggi of Shoalhaven in NSW). Dad was pretty "able" but Mum became a client of the local meals on wheels Service. Daily visits provided three priceless additions to their lives: brief respite for him, routine meal times and monitoring of the situation as Vilya describes in that beautiful article.
I don't want to argue against a hospital doing its best in this age of economic rationalism but that service went from fresh daily to frozen weekly when catering [to the hospitals and departmental nursing homes] was "regionalised" by grouping all the meal preparation (it had been known as "cooking" up to this point) in one central kitchen. The quality for hospital patients deteriorated as hot meals were transported in small trucks for up to 100 km after plating up.
My mother lost interest in the meals on wheels service as she had to thaw the things before removing them from the aluminium trays and microwaving them; trays of frozen meals filled their small freezer (which pensioner has a big freezer?) and her meal times lost routine.
That was 20 years ago. The more things change, the more they stay the same?
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
Many thanks to Vilya Congreave for her article which reports a short-sighted decision by one or a small group that affects many by taking away a daily lifeline for those receiving meals on wheels. She points out the untold extra mile that meals on wheels volunteers go. In other words, what they do is an important social service far beyond just delivering meals. Who makes decisions like the one to change the service from five times a week to once a week? (Similarly the closure of Wonthaggi Info Centre) Why doesn’t this person or persons consult with the people at the coalface instead of making questionable decisions with possibly disastrous consequences? And at short notice. Please, whoever made the decision, belatedly consult with people like Vilya Congreave and their clients. Even better, join a volunteer on a delivery and see how appreciated they and their service are.
Meryl Tobin, The Gurdies
I read with great interest Vilya's account of her 32 years with meals on wheels. What a wonderful commitment. My mother in England had a similar commitment and was saddened when the service in Cornwall was outsourced to a private company and she was no longer needed. Knowing Vilya, and knowing my mother, the recipients of the meals will have missed out greatly by not having those visits.
It makes it even more important that we all try to keep our eyes and ears and hearts open to the rewards of a relationship with people with so much to share.
Hilary Stuchbery
To let: centennial centre, almost new
March 6, 2016
We find it absolutely outrageous for the Bass Coast Council to be so arrogant as to attempt to close the Wonthaggi visitor information centre without community consultation and without releasing the report that recommended the closure to the community. In the press we read that the Council expects to save $3 million over 10 years by closing the VIC. We must be given a copy of the report to review these figures.
Frank Schooneveldt, Goat Island Gallery
February 25, 2016
I am horrified the council has decided that a town Wonthaggi's size can't support an information centre. Surely a bit of lateral thinking could have maintained this valuable service. Even lobbying to having the V/line buses stop there and selling local produce may have increased the demand. But to decide that a tourist district of Wonthaggi/Inverloch’s size doesn't need an information centre is ludicrous. Even towns the size of Creswick have a tourist information centre!
Maxine Wright, Kilcunda
On both a personal and professional level we were very disappointed to hear about the closure of the Wonthaggi visitor information centre. There appears to be a lack of vision by our council. So what is shire's vision for the increasingly major activity of tourism? We believe it is unjust to compare activity levels at Wonthaggi Visitors Information Centre at the Centennial location to Newhaven, surely one of the busiest VIC's in the regional Victoria given its links to activities on Phillip Island.
The Wonthaggi Information Centre performs a valuable service not only to tourists and travellers but also to new residents of Wonthaggi. The current location also copes well with caravans and buses.
We can only imagine the impact it will have on local tourist destinations such as the State Coal Mine. The downgrading of the service is, we believe, a retrograde step.
We are grateful for the high level professional service given by those at Wonthaggi and the friendly, knowledgeable input of the volunteers.
Mary Schooneveldt, Goat Island Gallery
February 21, 2016
Isn’t it wonderful! Wonthaggi, regional centre for the shire, loses another icon. The beautiful information centre, celebrating the bi-centennial of Australia and the mining history of the town, joins the empty shops scattered throughout the Wonthaggi CBD.
Perhaps the main town in the shire should be Cowes or Inverloch. There seems to be plenty of ratepayers’ money for more admin. staff, wages, cars, mobile phones and on the list goes.
In the financial scheme of things, the “loss” incurred by the Wonthaggi info centre is small. So visitors to Wonthaggi are advised (by a hoarding at the town’s entrance, perhaps) to by-pass Wonthaggi, continue to Inverloch and find out about the shire there. Pathetic!
Yvonne McRae, Wonthaggi
1. I travel regularly through regional Australia; all have information destinations.
2. Wonthaggi is a growth area, therefore we need to keep the information centre open.
3. I have been involved in the sport of motorcycling racing for nearly four decades. The attraction to this area is immense and have noticed the growth in internationals and interstaters staying for a month, instead of a few days.
4. If the tourism centre is unable to perform in an economic manner, bring in an expert to develop.
Susan Edwards
Lower rates? It’s our call
February 25, 2016
A rate cut at the expense of infrastructure is short sighted - in the long run we all lose. I'm all for ensuring that our rates are well spent and council workers and contractors give good value for money and that our rates are not wasted on frivolous things like morning teas. But I am against making savings when it comes to infrastructure and services that improve the quality of life of all residents and makes Bass Coast an attractive, safe, healthy and convenient place to live and a desirable destination for tourists.
So please, stop listening to the whingeing minority and keep building new infrastructure and maintain our current resources and let's become an innovative exciting place to live.
Maxine Wright, Kilcunda
February 25, 2016
I support investment in infrastructure over rate reductions. l appreciate the work the shire is doing to enhance the look of towns in the shire. This is not just good for residents but good for tourism. Keep up the good work.
John Wright, Kilcunda
February 25, 2016
A citizen-driven public petition with 2903 signatures requests the Essential Services Commissioner to refuse any application by the Bass Coast Council for exemption from the Rate Cap.
This was a remarkable result given it was driven across the shire by concerned citizens.
The Council CEO is correct when he reports that there is very small segment of ratepayers who oppose the rate cap. Sampling continues to put that segment at well under three persons for every 100. The absolutely overwhelming response (97 per cent) on the street in the past 31 days is that council must operate with efficiency and stay within the rate cap.
Phillip Island delivered 1343 signatures and 1560 came from mainly Inverloch – Cape Paterson – Wonthaggi - Grantville, with even Glen Alvie making a contribution.
The Petition will be lodged before February 26 with the Council and Essential Services Commissioner as an expression of the community sentiments supporting the State Government imposed rate cap.
Mohan de Run, Inverloch, lead peitioner
February 19, 2016
I didn’t like a lot of the questions in the online survey on rates asking people to rate/rank capital works projects.
I think the survey questions are out of sync with public expectations from those who were at the recent forums. My understanding was that the rating/ranking of capital works projects was not to be done at this time. It is difficult to know what each project is about – so it’s very unfair to ask for judgement when the individual project details/scope/reasons are not available.
The first step is to let all ratepayers know the outcome of the meetings then get Council to lock in on them at its February or March meetings. Only then, with the confidence that councillors are on-side with the ratepayers can council go back to the ratepayers and try to prioritise capital works (that will need its own sessions).
I think Council should ignore all answers to capital works questions in survey monkey at this stage.
Ray McNamara, San Remo
A voice for the wilderness
February 25, 2016
Bravo, Liz McDonald for expressing so eloquently what conservationists and other lovers of nature and all who appreciate the sustainability of our natural environment have been saying for years!
The biggest issue we see in the Bass Coast Shire is the need for a sustainable environment and Liz McDonald’s desire to protect The Gurdies bush is part of satisfying this need.
To quote the council’s own Environmental Sustainability Plan 2008-13, p14: "One of the most critical local environmental issues for Bass Coast is that there is less than 10% of indigenous bush remaining from pre 1700s. There is research and a common acceptance that if there is 35% cover of native vegetation then 75-80% of species can survive, but below that level extinctions can accelerate rapidly."
In 1996 nearly 1139 people signed a petition for the creation of a Westernport Bay National Park which would incorporate the Hurdy Gurdy Creek, The Gurdies and Grantville Nature Conservation Reserves and other Crown Land, including the coastal strip between the mouths of the Bass and Lang Lang Rivers. Although these people had the vision to see that, to retain our wildlife, we have to ensure they have land and wildlife corridors to operate in, our council and State Government of the time did not have similar vision.
So, 20 years later, we still must fight the same battles. Where are our councillors and council staff ready to stand with these 1139 petitioners, and no doubt many more with similar views now? Which of them will support, in the short terms, all areas of remnant vegetation being declared Rural Conservation Zones and not being allowed to become Rural Activity Zones?
Then, if protected now, these bush areas, in the long term, could still become part of the bigger vision, the Westernport National Park.
Meryl Tobin, Grantville
February 21, 2016
Thanks for your article, Liz. It demonstrates how hard it is for individuals to be heard and understood when they stand in the path of a bureaucratic juggernaut.
Good luck to you and your small band as you strive to protect an environment we love.
Gill Heal, Jeetho West
Man versus nature
April 12, 2016
Enjoyed Geoff’s adventures with our eight-legged friends. Living with an arachnophobe, I get a lot of practice catching them using the reliable container and card method, then taking them for a ride somewhere to a safe distance from our house, and hopefully far enough away from other people’s houses too.
Miriam Strickland, Wonthaggi
February 16, 2016
I really enjoyed Geoff Ellis’s article. Could recognise and empathise but I was cured of those horrors when it comes to THE huntsman in '83. Living in the Dandenongs, they were daily visitors. I would nervously catch them, line up the jars on the kitchen bench. There they would wait for Laz's return from night shift to regain freedom. On our last night, there were 6 jail jars waiting.
Later that morning, I was saying goodbye to the garden when one ran across my hand. It was like being brushed with soft French velvet and totally took my fear with it.
Geoff's portrait is of a beautiful, benign face. A Bug-Catcher is a wonderful temporary home and a way of observing these critters.
After moving to Wonthaggi we experienced fewer invasions but one hot summer day, I was taught a lesson about awareness of creature comforts! It was one of the most memorable encounters of a natural kind. Armed with my faithful Bug C I trapped a very large huntsman from – you guessed it – behind a painting!
Its release was interrupted by a long phone call. I had carelessly placed the BC on the porch table in the sun and on return, was horrified to find a rather stressed looking spider. I decided to sprinkle it with water and to my surprise it moved to where the water trickled down the cylinder and as I watched, sucked the drops.
It is quite amazing to see water slowly being drawn into a spider's mouth, drop by drop, at eye level through transparent plastic.
Long may our fellow travellers of all description accompany and enrich us on life's roads.
Heather Tobias, Wonthaggi
February 13, 2016
As for spiders I see around the house, car, shed, I look the other way and hope My husband does not see them before they find a crack to go home to. Everyone's welcome in my home.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
Lower rates? It’s our call
February 18, 2016
I think the survey questions on the council’s website asking respondents to rate/rank capital works projects are out of sync with public expectations from those who were at the recent forums on rates. It is difficult to know what each project is about – so it’s very unfair to ask for judgement when the individual project details/scope/reasons are not available.
My understanding was that the rating/ranking of capital works projects was not to be done at this time. The first step is to let all ratepayers know the outcome of the meetings, then get the council to lock in on them at its February or March meetings.
Only then, with the confidence that councillors are on-side with the ratepayers, can council go back to the rate payers and try to prioritise capital works (that will need its own sessions). I think Council should ignore all answers to capital works questions in survey monkey at this stage.
Ray McNamara, San Remo
A good read
February 18, 2016
This weekend I finally had the time to put my feet up and savour this year's three BCPs. Well done Post. Very strong, well balanced editions; I was particularly taken by The Winds of Change. I also found the prominence given to Mayor Crugnale's piece on meeting the Premier another reminder of the value of independent voices in the media.
It was also refreshing to share the dreams of Braxton Lane. Local Tourism needn't be all about Penguins and Motorcycle Racing. Thanks to unfettered climate change our weather matches the Gold Coast so why not a few theme parks?
Keep up the good work, BCP!
Geoff Ellis, Wattle Bank
Snake alert
February 13, 2016
We all need to be on high alert this summer - this is a hallway light fitting with a tiger snake swinging off it (mouse in mouth) - this is no ordinary snake or light - this is in my son and daughter-in-law’s farmhouse at Ryanston this afternoon. They both walked down the hallway unaware of this creature - luckily the children (6 and 2) were still outside.
This is just sickening – we see them down the paddock and they venture into our gardens, but in our houses ............................ Snake catcher attended - snake taken away ...it is believed it got into the ceiling from outside in a brickveneer house with a tiled roof.
My poor kids this is really starting to get to me. They have lost a dear little dog - had another bitten twice and possibly the death of their stock horse - all due to the tiger snake population out there.
Rosemary Loughnan, Wonthaggi
Sea World, Disneyland ... Wonthaggi
February 15, 2016
Full marks for such huge visionary ideas. When you look at all those people living on the eastern side of Melb in addition to existing tourist potential , the limited exposure to coastal areas makes Bass Coast an enitivability to become a focus of their attention.
However there are numerous examples of” failed visions” or” inappropriate development” that has occurred to date in the Bass Coast area , so you would need a targeted plan.
Your idea needs to be “sold “ to an experienced , substantial, very likely international entrepreneur of such projects.
It is a very good idea and would be fantastic for the area in so many ways, I hope I live to see it happen. Good luck
Roger Davis
I have a sneaky feeling that Braxton Lane is taking the mickey out of us. I most certainly hope so, but just in case. Flying elephants and fairy floss a la Disneyland in Wonthaggi sounds like the nightmare to end all nightmares.
What was that line Joni Mitchell wrote in her song Big Yellow Taxi about "You don't know what you've got till it's gone, see paradise and put up a parking lot."
Come on Braxton, give us a break.
Bob Middleton, Jeetho West
February 13, 2016
Good on you Braxton for being brave enough to share your dream and now I hope you have the courage to pursue it.
I think it’s a wonderful and exciting dream and I wish you all the best in achieving it, or at least getting others on board and commencing the journey with you.
Good luck.
Lou Pecora, Phillip Island
Love a good vision and a dream. It all starts with with one idea.
Neri Melsmith, Cape Woolamai
The winds of change
February 13, 2016
Miriam, thank you for choosing to write so beautifully about the pitfalls of endings. Beginnings and endings are quaint partners indeed. I recall my Mum saying that best time to leave a party is when you are having fun!
Tim Shannon, Ventnor
February 13, 2016
Condolences for the loss of Angus. Thank you, Miriam, for reminding us
of the inevitability and the need to readjust when change happens.
As you say, humour is great for these occasions. As well as a few laughs,
the people I speak to at the hospital respond well to feeling gratitude for
a productive, fortunate life they have had and the many supports a rich
western country can offer to ease the inevitable ageing process.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
A friend for life
February 13, 2016
Thank you for taking me back to my first memory of a room. It made me very happy to remember the little room which was bed, dining, lounge room for our family of four. It was heated by a huge clay tiled coal oven and was the only heated room in our two room flat, during freezing Polish winters.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
Great expectations
February 11, 2016
A proposed “great hall” in Cowes writes Robert J Vigglietti. I recall, with some clarity, the controversy surrounding the construction of the Sydney Opera House.
There were those who thought the vision of Jorn Utzon was impractical and not worth the money. Now it stands as one of the great architectural triumphs of the 20th Century or any age for that matter.
I recall as well, the howls of outrage when Gough Whitlam purchased “Blue Poles” by Jackson Pollock on behalf of the emerging Australian National Gallery.
It is those who have a vision, and who pursue it with all their intelligence and energy, who raise the consciousness of society above apathy and mediocrity.
John Adam, Phillip Island.
February 7, 2016
As a member of the Working Group for the Redevelopment of the Cultural Centre in Cowes, I was pleased to read the enthusiastic comments expressed in Great Expectations. Submissions and comments on the concept plans are now being considered and the final plan will go shortly before council for approval.
This exciting building on a site in Cowes, with so much history, will strengthen the values of the Island’s cultural diversity and its rich community life. It will enable an experience to be enjoyed by residents and visitors. When completed it will be a source of great community pride.
The future needs not be something that just happens. We can create the future we want and this building can help to achieve this.
Anne Davie, Ventnor
I agree with everything said and it is about time we have buildings to match our stunning natural beauty which is so unique in the world, a building that will move us in to the 21st century!
Marilyn Shaw
The Premier drops in
February 11, 2016
Finally, acknowledgement that Wonthaggi requires a clear and concise development strategy. With recent announcements relating to the development of the Phillip Island 20 Year Tourism Plan, and funding of the Cowes Revitalisation Project, it's pleasing to read that council recognises Wonthaggi has an important contribution to make as the regional population and employment growth centre. I look forward to reading of the development of the strategy which will coincide nicely with the anticipated release of the Bass Coast Council's Economic Development Strategy.
James Archibald
February 7, 2016
Did any of the forward thinking business and community leaders join the dots at the meeting with premier Andrews, and ask him why his pet desalination plant (a private, multinational water company) pays not one cent in rates to Bass Coast Shire? I feel I already know the answer.
Mark Robertson, Wonthaggi
My window on the world
February 7, 2016
Matt Stone’s article is a refreshing look at how he and his wife Liane became volunteers abroad and how it has enriched not only the lives of the people they are helping but also their own. An inspiration to others to do something similar.
Meryl Tobin, Grantville
A green miracle
February 4, 2016
Thank you, Terri Allen. You infect me with your love and erudite knowledge of the bush, its many plants and of your local surroundings. You show me the urgency of the delicate seed, the tiny frond, to grow conquering any obstacle, creating the true miracleon earth.
Felicia De Stefano, Glen Forbes
Back to the daily grind
February 3, 2016
What a piece you've written Geoff Ellis! So entertaining whilst it's sheer hell for you. And love the descriptions from your 'estranged best friend' as you toil so determinedly to shed the excess again.
I'm back on the 5:2 fasting regime as the kilos have increased with the wonderful food we can put together on a festive table topped off by apricot dumplings in January - an annual family ritual no-one could resist.
Glad it's Circle Dancing tomorrow - an hour of fun and movement - see you there Geoff!
Sue Packham, Woolamai
Geoff why don't you just admit you are just like the average Aussie.Eating is much more fun than exercise.Reading your article is even funnier.Come back to circle dancing for more fun.Great writing.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
Switched on islanders show the way
February 3, 2016
Thank you for passing on valuable information, Catherine.
We installed our solar panels early and switched to Powershop. Last trimester I was able to give $500 towards rebuilding of the Kongor school and this trimester I will be able to contribute over $600 to the school just from payments for our electricity feed into the grid.
If anyone would like to switch to Powershop they are welcome to do it through us. In that way we get an extra $75 for the school and they get $75 off their bill.
Felicia De Stefano, Glen Forbes
Not in our name
February 5, 2016
As the Labor candidate for the seat of McMillan in the upcoming Federal election, I have been asked many times about whether it is time to change the name of the seat.
Our electorate is named after Angus McMillan one of the original Scottish pioneers, who came here in the 1800s to carve out a new life for his family.
Along with several other settlers he was responsible for the murder and massacre of the local indigenous people in a number of different places across Gippsland. It is part of our history as a region and the facts are undisputable. Make no mistake the original inhabitants of our land have not forgotten.
There are many good people directly descended from the original white settlers who wish for a way to help heal the hurt and suffering caused. They know deep down that it is not right to continue venerating Angus McMillan’s name.
In my opinion we are well overdue for a name change and we should embrace the opportunity to have the conversation as a community about how we wish to be known.
The value in changing the name away from McMillan is recognising the wrongs and making a clear statement as a community that we are for recognition and reconciliation.
We have an opportunity to build consensus and lobby for a name change next year as part of the federal electoral boundary redistribution process. Join me in letting the Australian Electoral Commission know that we want a name for our federal seat that more closely aligns with our values and aspirations.
Chris Buckingham, Labor Candidate for McMillan
February 13, 2016
We all need to be on high alert this summer - this is a hallway light fitting with a tiger snake swinging off it (mouse in mouth) - this is no ordinary snake or light - this is in my son and daughter-in-law’s farmhouse at Ryanston this afternoon. They both walked down the hallway unaware of this creature - luckily the children (6 and 2) were still outside.
This is just sickening – we see them down the paddock and they venture into our gardens, but in our houses ............................ Snake catcher attended - snake taken away ...it is believed it got into the ceiling from outside in a brickveneer house with a tiled roof.
My poor kids this is really starting to get to me. They have lost a dear little dog - had another bitten twice and possibly the death of their stock horse - all due to the tiger snake population out there.
Rosemary Loughnan, Wonthaggi
Sea World, Disneyland ... Wonthaggi
February 15, 2016
Full marks for such huge visionary ideas. When you look at all those people living on the eastern side of Melb in addition to existing tourist potential , the limited exposure to coastal areas makes Bass Coast an enitivability to become a focus of their attention.
However there are numerous examples of” failed visions” or” inappropriate development” that has occurred to date in the Bass Coast area , so you would need a targeted plan.
Your idea needs to be “sold “ to an experienced , substantial, very likely international entrepreneur of such projects.
It is a very good idea and would be fantastic for the area in so many ways, I hope I live to see it happen. Good luck
Roger Davis
I have a sneaky feeling that Braxton Lane is taking the mickey out of us. I most certainly hope so, but just in case. Flying elephants and fairy floss a la Disneyland in Wonthaggi sounds like the nightmare to end all nightmares.
What was that line Joni Mitchell wrote in her song Big Yellow Taxi about "You don't know what you've got till it's gone, see paradise and put up a parking lot."
Come on Braxton, give us a break.
Bob Middleton, Jeetho West
February 13, 2016
Good on you Braxton for being brave enough to share your dream and now I hope you have the courage to pursue it.
I think it’s a wonderful and exciting dream and I wish you all the best in achieving it, or at least getting others on board and commencing the journey with you.
Good luck.
Lou Pecora, Phillip Island
Love a good vision and a dream. It all starts with with one idea.
Neri Melsmith, Cape Woolamai
The winds of change
February 13, 2016
Miriam, thank you for choosing to write so beautifully about the pitfalls of endings. Beginnings and endings are quaint partners indeed. I recall my Mum saying that best time to leave a party is when you are having fun!
Tim Shannon, Ventnor
February 13, 2016
Condolences for the loss of Angus. Thank you, Miriam, for reminding us
of the inevitability and the need to readjust when change happens.
As you say, humour is great for these occasions. As well as a few laughs,
the people I speak to at the hospital respond well to feeling gratitude for
a productive, fortunate life they have had and the many supports a rich
western country can offer to ease the inevitable ageing process.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
A friend for life
February 13, 2016
Thank you for taking me back to my first memory of a room. It made me very happy to remember the little room which was bed, dining, lounge room for our family of four. It was heated by a huge clay tiled coal oven and was the only heated room in our two room flat, during freezing Polish winters.
Felicia Di Stefano, Glen Forbes
Great expectations
February 11, 2016
A proposed “great hall” in Cowes writes Robert J Vigglietti. I recall, with some clarity, the controversy surrounding the construction of the Sydney Opera House.
There were those who thought the vision of Jorn Utzon was impractical and not worth the money. Now it stands as one of the great architectural triumphs of the 20th Century or any age for that matter.
I recall as well, the howls of outrage when Gough Whitlam purchased “Blue Poles” by Jackson Pollock on behalf of the emerging Australian National Gallery.
It is those who have a vision, and who pursue it with all their intelligence and energy, who raise the consciousness of society above apathy and mediocrity.
John Adam, Phillip Island.
February 7, 2016
As a member of the Working Group for the Redevelopment of the Cultural Centre in Cowes, I was pleased to read the enthusiastic comments expressed in Great Expectations. Submissions and comments on the concept plans are now being considered and the final plan will go shortly before council for approval.
This exciting building on a site in Cowes, with so much history, will strengthen the values of the Island’s cultural diversity and its rich community life. It will enable an experience to be enjoyed by residents and visitors. When completed it will be a source of great community pride.
The future needs not be something that just happens. We can create the future we want and this building can help to achieve this.
Anne Davie, Ventnor
I agree with everything said and it is about time we have buildings to match our stunning natural beauty which is so unique in the world, a building that will move us in to the 21st century!
Marilyn Shaw
The Premier drops in
February 11, 2016
Finally, acknowledgement that Wonthaggi requires a clear and concise development strategy. With recent announcements relating to the development of the Phillip Island 20 Year Tourism Plan, and funding of the Cowes Revitalisation Project, it's pleasing to read that council recognises Wonthaggi has an important contribution to make as the regional population and employment growth centre. I look forward to reading of the development of the strategy which will coincide nicely with the anticipated release of the Bass Coast Council's Economic Development Strategy.
James Archibald
February 7, 2016
Did any of the forward thinking business and community leaders join the dots at the meeting with premier Andrews, and ask him why his pet desalination plant (a private, multinational water company) pays not one cent in rates to Bass Coast Shire? I feel I already know the answer.
Mark Robertson, Wonthaggi
My window on the world
February 7, 2016
Matt Stone’s article is a refreshing look at how he and his wife Liane became volunteers abroad and how it has enriched not only the lives of the people they are helping but also their own. An inspiration to others to do something similar.
Meryl Tobin, Grantville
A green miracle
February 4, 2016
Thank you, Terri Allen. You infect me with your love and erudite knowledge of the bush, its many plants and of your local surroundings. You show me the urgency of the delicate seed, the tiny frond, to grow conquering any obstacle, creating the true miracleon earth.
Felicia De Stefano, Glen Forbes
Back to the daily grind
February 3, 2016
What a piece you've written Geoff Ellis! So entertaining whilst it's sheer hell for you. And love the descriptions from your 'estranged best friend' as you toil so determinedly to shed the excess again.
I'm back on the 5:2 fasting regime as the kilos have increased with the wonderful food we can put together on a festive table topped off by apricot dumplings in January - an annual family ritual no-one could resist.
Glad it's Circle Dancing tomorrow - an hour of fun and movement - see you there Geoff!
Sue Packham, Woolamai
Geoff why don't you just admit you are just like the average Aussie.Eating is much more fun than exercise.Reading your article is even funnier.Come back to circle dancing for more fun.Great writing.
Daryl Hook, Pound Creek
Switched on islanders show the way
February 3, 2016
Thank you for passing on valuable information, Catherine.
We installed our solar panels early and switched to Powershop. Last trimester I was able to give $500 towards rebuilding of the Kongor school and this trimester I will be able to contribute over $600 to the school just from payments for our electricity feed into the grid.
If anyone would like to switch to Powershop they are welcome to do it through us. In that way we get an extra $75 for the school and they get $75 off their bill.
Felicia De Stefano, Glen Forbes
Not in our name
February 5, 2016
As the Labor candidate for the seat of McMillan in the upcoming Federal election, I have been asked many times about whether it is time to change the name of the seat.
Our electorate is named after Angus McMillan one of the original Scottish pioneers, who came here in the 1800s to carve out a new life for his family.
Along with several other settlers he was responsible for the murder and massacre of the local indigenous people in a number of different places across Gippsland. It is part of our history as a region and the facts are undisputable. Make no mistake the original inhabitants of our land have not forgotten.
There are many good people directly descended from the original white settlers who wish for a way to help heal the hurt and suffering caused. They know deep down that it is not right to continue venerating Angus McMillan’s name.
In my opinion we are well overdue for a name change and we should embrace the opportunity to have the conversation as a community about how we wish to be known.
The value in changing the name away from McMillan is recognising the wrongs and making a clear statement as a community that we are for recognition and reconciliation.
We have an opportunity to build consensus and lobby for a name change next year as part of the federal electoral boundary redistribution process. Join me in letting the Australian Electoral Commission know that we want a name for our federal seat that more closely aligns with our values and aspirations.
Chris Buckingham, Labor Candidate for McMillan