Armando is master of his craft By LIAM DURKIN   JACK of all trades, master of one. Armando Petrucci did a bit of everything during his time, yet one profession stood out during his career. The Morwell local was a master tailor, curating fine suits for many locals across the Latrobe Valley. Through his business The House of Petrucci, he built an empire that left a footprint in most towns throughout Gippsland. At their peak, Mr Petrucci’s stores were in Morwell, Traralgon, Philip Island and Melbourne. In his element: Armando Petrucci preparing a new suit. Photograph supplied He specialised in master tailor wear for ladies and gentleman. He also ran a travel agency at a time, as well as a video hire, giftware and toy shop. He still frequents his home country, Italy, where he is set to visit again soon. Hailing from near Venice, he was recognised by Italian dignitaries with the San Marco in Lamis Award for his dedication to not only his craft, but in welcoming San Marco residents and Italian emigrants. Mr Petrucci, part of the Masters Tailors Association of Victoria, jokes that he began tailoring at eight-years-of-age. Now 87, that’s a lot of suits. And he’s still making them. Mr Petrucci estimates he pieces together three to four new suits a year for himself. “It’s a very hard job, all by hand, no shortcuts, no machine,” he said. Over the years, Mr Petrucci became involved in many local organisations, most notably the Italian Australian Club. Clerk: Armando Petrucci outside one of his Melbourne stores. Photograph supplied He formed a strong partnership with his wife, Giovannina, and together they forged a dynamic duo. “She’s been gone for three years, but she’s always in my heart,” he said. When he was making suits, Mr Petrucci would supply uniforms for police and local sporting clubs. “You name it (we did it),” he said. When asked about today’s fashion, Mr Petrucci, in classic Italian fashion, was straight to the point. “No good – shocking!” he said. “Today, (it’s) all made by computers. There’s no tailors.” Mr Petrucci could certainly be one of the few of his kind left.

LV Express: Armando is master of his craft #Community #ArmandoPetrucci #LatrobeValley

Morwell Scouts’ craft market well supported By PEACE IJIYERA   ALL the artsy and crafty people in the Latrobe Valley flocked to the 1st Morwell Scouts Hall for the inaugural Craft-De-Stash sale. The sale was held for crafters to sell any excess bits of fabric, wool, paper, and other craft supplies they had. On the day, about 20 stall holders sold materials from their stash, giving buyers the opportunity to live out their crafting dreams at a discounted price. Held from 10am to 1pm, the hall was packed with buyers with more than 100 people coming through. Scouts group leader, Matthew Ball says the Craft de Stash sale was a success. “I think its been awesome, its been great to see so many people come through. It’s the first time we’ve tried to run one of these, we’ve got a great person, Julie Hill who’s organised it all and its been great to see so many people come through. We sort of hope to make it more of an annual event so we can do it more frequently,” he said. Stall holders and good friends, Anna Miron and Sam Soutar have been into crafting “forever”. Through crafting, a “just for fun” hobby, they have created cards, teddy bears, cross stich and scrap books. Between the pair, they made upwards of $250. Stall holder and fellow Scout, Corbin Walters sold bracelets, headbands, stickers and ribbons to raise money so he can attend the World Scout Jamboree in Poland next year. He says that business on the day was “good”. The sale was also held to raise money for the 1st Morwell Scouts group. By selling morning tea and raffle tickets, the Scouts were able to raise more than $600. Organiser and chair of the Scouts support committee, Julie Hill, says the money raised at the craft sale and future events will aid in the upgrade of the halls facilities. Packed: Crowds rushed to get some great deals at the 1st Morwell Scouts Craft-De-Stash sale. Photograph supplied “At the moment we’re raising funds to do some work on the hall. To do new bathrooms, new entrance to make it more accessible … plus we’re raising funds to get enclosed trailer for camps,” she said. “We did the barbecue at the Moe Earth Market, and we’re doing the next one on Mother’s Day in May … we’re doing a hot cross bun fundraiser driver … we sell chocolates as well.” Ms Hill also spoke about the benefits of Scouts in teaching kids relevant life skills. “It’s a youth organisation. They meet at the hall each week and they do different activities, so team building, community orientation type stuff, they learn to tie knots, they go on camps and stuff so they learn a lot of outdoor skills and play games,” she added. “It’s sort of youth-led though so it really depends on what the kids want to do, the adults just help facilitate it.” Ms Hill was a Scout group leader and a youth member herself. Now her child, Evan Hill participates in Scouts and loves it. Evan has been in Scouts for five years and says the best part about it is “just about everything”. “I love the night to night stuff, but I also like the really big camps [called] jamborees,” they said. In the future Evan has plans of becoming a leader, like their mum. “I’m very much planning on being a leader, I’m already helping with Joey’s (five to eight-year-olds) so I’m hoping to continue that.” Scout Matthew Mclean has been part of Scouts since he was a Joey. His mum, Elizabeth Barkley says she has seen the benefits of her son being in Scouts. “Scouts is really inclusive, they take anyone, doesn’t matter if they’ve got a disability whatever, we accept everyone … it’s good skills,” she said. “[I’m] very proud. For a kid that couldn’t talk, [and] is now doing beautiful public speaking, it’s only through Scouts and stuff that have helped encourage skills, build up his skills … the best thing about Scouts, [is] it gives them independence but also builds up their confidence and their skill levels.” Chairperson for Ventures unit (15 to 18), Annalyse Coley, has been part of Scouts for seven years. She loves the community aspect of the group. “Everyone’s really close and feels like family no matter where you are in the world,” she said. “Like I could meet someone on a camp and the next camp that’s like four years away, I will see them again and we instantly click and it’s like we haven’t been separated.” Crafty: Sheryn Maher (Drouin), Michelle McConachie (Traralgon), eight-year-old Sophie Maher (Drouin) and Ashlee Jacka (Cloverlea) enjoying the 1st Morwell Scouts Craft-De-Stash sale. Photograph: Peace Ijiyera Ms Coley wants to see more girls join Scouts and change people’s perceptions on the group. “In our venture unit we have more girls than boys … considering how back in the day it was more boys, and girls had to fight to get into Scouts. It’s really good seeing how many girls are getting into it.” Throughout the day, the Scouts were put to work and helped out with the raffle draw and morning tea. Mr Ball said it was amazing to see the Scouts interact with the community. “Some of them have never sort of really got to experience these things since COVID, they sort of missed that window, and now they’re sort of coming in and starting to learn things and how to talk to people,” he said. “So it’s been really exciting to see a lot of the kids sort of grow and sort of learn how to communicate with each other.” Mr Ball’s message to the community is to not forget about the Scouts. “We are out here, we still run Scouts, Scouts is still about … come try it out, it’s free to try for the first three nights, if you don’t like it that’s okay, if you do, great.”

LV Express: Morwell Scouts’ craft market well supported #News #CraftDeStash #LatrobeValley

Denominations unite for world prayer By PEACE IJIYERA   THE 2026 World Day of Prayer service was held last Friday (March 6) at the Traralgon and District Baptist Church. Each year, the day has a country of focus. This years focus was Nigeria. Under the theme ‘I will give you rest: come,’ taken from Matthew 11:28-30, about 30 people from different denominations including, Anglican, Catholic, Baptist, and Lutheran came to intercede on behalf of Nigeria. The World Day of Prayer is an international movement led by Christian women that has been operating in Australia since 1927 and in the Latrobe Valley for more than 40 years. Coincidentally, the World Day of Prayer fell during the week of International Women’s Day. Reverend Heather den Houting said that women who pray are among the “most powerful people in our community”, and described the group of praying women as a “radical movement”. During the service, a series of hymns were sang and stories from women in Nigeria were heard. The stories highlighted the struggles with systematic oppression, religious persecution and poverty that many face in Nigeria. In all these stories was the reoccurring theme of finding strength through faith and community. After each story was an intercessory prayer. Year 11 student leaders from Lavalla Catholic College performed a short play about a young girl in Nigeria who was facing educational difficulty. Through faith, friendship and hard work, the young girl was able to improve her studies and received an award at the end of the term. With a stone given to each attendee at the entrance, the congregation was invited to place their stone on a table at the altar, symbolising placing their burdens at the feet of Christ. Reverend Houting was invited as a guest speaker and addressed the congregation, highlighting the power that is in corporate prayer and gathering. “This is not something to be taken lightly and it’s not an archaic or strange situation, it is actually a powerful and extraordinary testimony to people who hold faith in the power of prayer,” she said “Hearing real stories is important, and my friends, praying together is important.” A morning tea was held after the service. Fitting the theme of Nigeria, jollof rice, a popular Nigerian dish was served. As a seasoned jollof rice consumer myself, it was a good attempt; a solid six out of 10. Next year will see the 100th anniversary of the World Day of Prayer which will be celebrated at St Michael’s Catholic Church, Traralgon.

LV Express: Denominations unite for world prayer #News #InternationalWomensDay #LatrobeValley

Two Found Dead at Hernes Oak Home in Regional Victoria A man and woman have been found dead at a property in Hernes Oak, eastern Victoria. Police are not looking for anyone else as the investigation continues.

Two Found Dead at Hernes Oak Home in Regional Victoria

#VictoriaPolice #Hernes Oak #LatrobeValley #Victoria #AusNews

thedailyperspective.org/article/2026-03-03-two-f...

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机场Latrobe Valley 在 Morwell (澳大利亚)有多少条跑道？ : 答案就在 https://www.bigorre.org/aero/meteo/yltv/zh #latrobevalley # #morwell #yltv #tgn #aviation #avgeek vl

The look of love, together for 65 years By PEACE IJIYERA   ENGAGED after one date and married after five months, Moe locals, Ronald and Ruth Pollard are celebrating 65 years of marriage. Fittingly, their anniversary falls on the day this paper is published (February 11). Married since 1961, the couple have lived a “full life”, and the love still radiates from their eyes. The couple met after a friend turned matchmaker, recommended Ms Pollard to Mr Pollard. Mr Pollard was told that Ms Pollard was “a pretty good girl”. Determined to not miss his chance, he acted on it. Finding her brother’s “tiny” two door Renault, Mr Pollard knocked on the window and asked a life changing question: “Ruth, would you go out on a date with me?”, he said. To which Ms Pollard replied, “yes”. Their first date was at a Sunday school concert. Mr Pollard was 23 and Ms Pollard, 20 when they tied the knot. It was straight from the altar to the airport for the couple, as Mr Pollard was working on a project for a church in New Zealand. Ms Pollard jokes that she was left alone for two weeks to fend for herself “in a strange country”. The Pollards took ‘be fruitful and multiply’ very seriously, having 10 children – nine of them boys. Their daughter was adopted after the chances of having a girl appeared slim. “After we had five boys, we decided that there was little chance of having a girl naturally, the opportunity came to adopt a girl and so we jumped at it”, Mr Pollard said. As you can imagine, raising 10 children was no walk in the park. Though describing it as “hard work”, Ms Pollard says being a mother is her greatest reward. “To be a mother, to me, is one of the best things you can do,” she said. Luckily for the Pollard’s, their children were well behaved and didn’t give them much trouble. “They were all good kids, they were all hard workers,” Mrs Pollard said. “They still are,” added Mr Pollard. Great times: The happy couple as young newlyweds. Photographs: Peace Ijiyera So, what’s the secret to 65 years of marriage? Communication, respect, enjoying each other company, and having a sense of humour, the Pollard’s say. “We made a pact when we got married. We said that we would not go to bed at night without resolving any difference that we had … we have maintained that throughout our entire marriage,” Mr Pollard said. “You’ve got to have that communication … if the other person’s mad at you for something and they don’t tell you, it’s a little bit hard to sort anything out,” Ms Pollard added. “You’ve got to have a sense of humour otherwise it’s very hard to survive.” Mr Pollard, now 88 and Ms Pollard, 85, though she identifies as 65, have 37 grandchildren and 35 great grandchildren who they are all very fond and proud of. They say that they love telling them stories of their lives and hope those stories can be be passed on. Even after 65 years of marriage, Mr Pollard still serves his wife and works every day to win her heart. Mr Pollard has planted more than 100 roses for his wife, who loves flowers. Every morning he gets up and picks out the very best. “He brings me two or three flowers and puts them in a vase. “We have a bargain going that he grows all the flowers and I arrange them,” Ms Pollard explained. Reflecting on 65 years of marriage, Mr Pollard says that “it doesn’t seem like that long”. Ms Pollard, truly having a sense of humour quipped, “I won’t swap you”.

LV Express: The look of love, together for 65 years #Community #News #LatrobeValley

Traralgon stars at state print titles SWIMMING FORTY swimmers from the Traralgon Swimming Club competed at the Victorian State Sprint Titles held at the Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre. Eight swimmers won four gold, seven silver and nine bronze medals, with a further 13 top 10 finishes. The club also won a relay gold in the Mixed Para – Able bodied 4 x 50m freestyle (Lockie Bellion, Blake Warne, Isla Ryan and Milla Said). Traralgon finished sixth in the Club Points Score in Victoria, beating a number of well-credentialled city clubs. Traralgon Swimming Club Senior Head Coach, Brian Ford was proud of the club’s achievements. “With every race (featuring) a 50 metre sprint in all strokes it certainly was a fast meet with thebest sprinters in Victoria showing their form,” he said. “To come away with 21 medals and a top 10 finish was a terrific result for the club.” A Victorian Country record was also broken by 11-year-old Henry Arnup in the 50 metre butterfly in a time of 31.29, just beating the previous record of 31.38 held by another Traralgon swimmer, Alex Tsebelis, from 2012. Those to medal were:  Ash Nicholes (18 yo) – 1 gold (free), 2 silver (back, breast), Henry Arnup (11) – 1 gold (back), 1 bronze (fly), Jess Whiting (16) – 1 gold (fly), 1 bronze (free), Olivia Baillie (18) – 1 gold (back), Lockie Bellion (17) – 1 silver (back), 3 bronze (fly, breast, free), Tahlia Maccubbin (11) – 1 bronze (fly), Phoebe Balcombe (15) – 1 bronze (fly), Darcy Connell (17) – 1 bronze (back). Better than one: Henry Arnup had an outstanding time in the pool, winning two medals at the state championships. Photographs supplied Paint a clear picture: Tahlia Maccubbin medalled at the championships. Local flag: Phoebe Balcombe with her bronze medal from the championships. Effort: Darcy Connell claimed bronze at the sprint championships. Gun: Ash Nicholes continued his stellar work in the pool. Hardest stroke in the book: Jess Whiting took home gold in butterfly. Can win laying down: Olivia Baillie won gold in backstroke.

LV Express: Traralgon stars at state print titles #Sport #LatrobeValley #MelbourneSportsAquaticCentre

Panthers Menswear closing its clothing chapter in Moe By AIDAN KNIGHT PANTHERS Menswear, a multi-generation brand within the Latrobe Valley, has announced the closure of its Moe store. The shop will close in March next year. David Panther and his wife, Susan came to the decision after careful consideration. “We’ve been in Moe for many years,” Mr Panther said. “But over the past 18 months we’ve seen many clothes stores – and other variety of retail – close in the area, which has impacted local shopping patterns.” Mr Panther tells of more customers choosing to shop at Traralgon, while never really losing business serviced by the More store. “We always ask customers for their postcode when shopping,” he explained on how this data was collected to inform the decision. The business was first established in 1955 by David’s father, Bill Panther. His desire was to run a business built on attentive customer service in men’s fine clothing and casual wear. Panthers became so strong in the retail sector that they were able to open five stores across the Latrobe Valley and South Gippsland. At its peak, branches were in Traralgon, Moe, Leongatha, Morwell and Wonthaggi (both now closed). Long-time manager of the Moe store, Carolyn Chester will be relocating to the Traralgon shop, ensuring familiar faces remain for customers making the transition. Mr Panther was very pleased to report that there had been no retrenchment in the process of condensing the business. “That is the last thing we’d want to do as a family business,” he said. The tight-knit team takes pride in their ability to offer attentive, knowledgeable service – with sales consultants skilled at helping customers put together outfits that look great, fit well, and provide value for money. Alongside dress apparel, Panthers continues to offer a tailoring and alteration service, as well as expert fitting for most sizes, ensuring every customer can find the perfect fit. Accessories, shoes, leather goods, and even special needs assistance round out the shopping experience. “We are deeply grateful for the support of the Moe community throughout the decades,” Mr Panther said. “We look forward to continuing to serve our customers at our other stores, and to welcoming some familiar faces in Traralgon.” Panthers were also one of the original advertisers to ever feature in the Express. David and Susan have plans to gradually move towards retirement, which also played a hand in the decision to close.  

LV Express: Panthers Menswear closing its clothing chapter in Moe #News #BillPanther #LatrobeValley

Marinus signs major works contract   MARINUS Link (MLPL) has executed its final Stage 1 major works contract with TasVic Greenlink (TVGL) – a joint venture of DT Infrastructure and Samsung C&T Corporation. The $994 million contract covers the construction of converter stations in Heybridge and Hazelwood, the installation of equipment, and the land cable civil works, spanning 90 kilometres across Gippsland. Marinus Link is a planned undersea and underground electricity and data interconnector between north-west Tasmania and the Latrobe Valley. MLPL Chief Executive, Stephanie McGregor, said the contract execution marks the final step in securing the capability and technology needed to start construction. “We have secured both our cable and converter technology suppliers, our integrated delivery partner, and now our lead contractor for the substantial civils and construction campaign,” Ms McGregor said. “Recently, we ran our Meet the Contractors events where around 1000 local businesses attended to explore and compete for supply chain opportunities across Gippsland, Victoria and North West Tasmania. Partnering with capable local businesses will complete our workforce and ensure the successful delivery of this national infrastructure project.” The contract execution follows the September announcement of TVGL as the preferred bidder for the ‘Balance of Works’ package. DTI Chief Executive, John Anderson, acknowledged the significance of this moment and the certainty it provides for regional economies that will benefit from Marinus Link. “Today marks a significant moment for DTI, together with our partner Samsung C&T, we are committing to deliver a truly once-in-a-generation project for the regions of North West Tasmania and Gippsland,” Mr Anderson said. Samsung C&T Corporation Australia Managing Director, Scott Choi, echoed Mr Anderson’s sentiments and reinforced their decision to partner with DTI to deliver this landmark project. “Samsung C&T is excited to collaborate with DTI in supporting Australia’s transition to a clean energy future,” Mr Choi said. TVGL is scheduled to start preparatory works at the Waratah Bay and Heybridge shore crossings in early 2026, pending final environmental approvals. Ms McGregor emphasised the planned engagement with communities ahead of construction. “Our Marinus Link teams, alongside TVGL, will be out and about early next year to provide detailed information about construction activities and expected timelines,” Ms McGregor said. DT Infrastructure is part of the Gamuda Group of Companies. DT Infrastructure brings together ties between global infrastructure and property giant Gamuda and local expertise in defence, transport and renewables infrastructure projects across metropolitan and regional Australia. Samsung C&T Corporation is a global engineering and construction company with expertise in large-scale infrastructure and energy projects. Marinus Link will enable the flow of more electricity in both directions, bolstering energy security, and delivering tangible benefits to consumers in Tasmania, Victoria and the broader national electricity market. Marinus Link’s total 1500 megawatt capacity is equal to the power supply for 1.5 million Australian homes, and its fibre optic cables will increase telecommunications capacity by 150 times. Marinus Link Pty Ltd is jointly owned by the federal government, the state of Victoria and the state of Tasmania.

LV Express: Marinus signs major works contract #News #Gippsland #LatrobeValley

VCE results are in: locals scoring high By AIDAN KNIGHT   LATROBE Valley students received their VCE results last Thursday (December 11) at 7am, joining a record-breaking graduating class across Victoria. A total of 65,586 students will finish the Victorian Certificate of Education in 2025 – an increase of 3500 on last year. Acting Education Minister, Lizzie Blandthorn congratulated the “commitment and dedication” shown by students statewide. Lowanna College Newborough saw its best scores come from biology, general mathematics and psychology, while Trafalgar High School had English and math (general and methods) topping their stats. This year’s cohort also includes more than 9700 students statewide who completed the Vocational Major, up from 8290 in 2024, reflecting the growing appetite for applied learning pathways. More than 15,300 students across Victoria earned at least one study score of 40 or above, while a record 664 students achieved a perfect study score of 50. Locally, St Paul’s Anglican Grammar reported an outstanding cohort, with a dux ATAR above 99. Around 15 per cent of the school’s students scored above 90, and 35 per cent scored above 80, with multiple perfect study scores across STEM, humanities, arts and VET subjects. Lowanna College’s dux achieved an ATAR above 95, with top marks in English, General Mathematics, Biology, Legal Studies and Psychology, while Gippsland Grammar celebrated a dux ATAR above 97 and a median ATAR of 72.7, higher than the state average. About 30 per cent of Gippsland Grammar’s students scored above 80, including several Year 11 students with perfect scores in subjects such as Biology and Applied Computing. Across these schools, graduates are moving onto university, TAFE, trade pathways and competitive interstate or international programs. Some of the highest-scoring students outside the Valley came from Mazenod College, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Oakleigh Grammar, Northside Christian College, and Casey Grammar. Across the state, the VCE completion rate remains steady at 97.3 per cent, with 3473 students awarded the VCE Baccalaureate for completing advanced maths and language sequences. Local principals say this year’s results reflect the resilience and adaptability of students who have completed their schooling in a rapidly changing post-COVID education environment. Victorian Curriculum Assessment Authority Chief Executive, Andrew Smith said the organisation was proud to help celebrate the achievements of every student who received results on the day. Associate Professor Glen Hosking of Latrobe University warns students: “It’s important not to let disappointing VCE results define you. An ATAR is just a number – a reflection of performance on specific assessments, not a measure of your worth, identity or future success.” “If your result isn’t what you hoped for, remind yourself that your ATAR is not your identity. It is also important to practice self-care, seek support from those around you and try to limit comparisons with others – especially on social media.”

LV Express: VCE results are in: locals scoring high #News #LatrobeValley #LizzieBlandthorn

Festive spirit enjoyed at Morwell Common By KATRINA BRANDON   A MERRY time was had at this year’s Merry Morwell celebration last Friday (December 12). Hundreds of people attended the event, settling into the Christmas spirit at Morwell Town Common (Wooden Playground). Local students sang carols, accompanied by Morwell Citizens Band. There was also a car show, SES demonstration, local market stalls, food trucks, and of course, a visit from Santa. Busy: Hundreds of people attended the Merry Morwell event last Friday. Photographs: Katrina Brandon The event started with heavy rainfall as a storm swept through the Latrobe Valley, making people duck for cover under tents. However, temperatures were still warm, meaning the rain brought a welcome relief and encouraged attendees to converse with each other and vendors. As the sun rose, the schools gathered at the music truck stage. There, they all took turns in flashy outfits and angelic tunes – whether it be a classic Christmas song or a fun parody. On the list: Morwell’s Esme (6) was joined by Santa on the Merry Morwell train ride. Santa mingled through the crowd, easily being the favourite part of the night for most visitors. Giving candy and high fives to all present, Santa could not be missed as he merged through the crowd, circling the grounds to make sure everyone got to say hello. Sticking around the event, Santa joined the festivities alongside attendees, whether it was riding the festival train or getting selfie-busy with festival-goers. As Santa set off to continue his Christmas duties, the festival continued to lift off, as the last schools took to the stage and people enjoyed the market, food, and other activities on offer. Festive: Latrobe Valley Choir’s Karen Whykes, Tineke Westwood and Desley Gray were all ears at the Merry Morwell festival.

LV Express: Festive spirit enjoyed at Morwell Common #Community #News #LatrobeValley

Best in the business at People’s Choice Awards By LIAM DURKIN   LATROBE City Business Chamber hosted its People’s Choice Awards gala night last Friday. The most popular businesses, as chosen by voters, were formally announced at Traralgon’s Little Theatre. The event presented an ideal networking opportunity for Latrobe Valley businesses to discuss their successes and ideas for the future. Businesses and their partners enjoyed exceptional hospitality and entertainment in a cocktail-style evening. Presentations were held in the theatre while informal festivities continued next door, allowing for a casual yet respectful vibe. Nominees for each category were given a short video presentation, before the winners were announced with an Oscar-style envelope opening. “Always wanted to do this,” Member for Morwell Martin Cameron quipped on stage. Award winners were: * Most popular aged care disability support services: Yallambee Traralgon Village for the Aged; * Most popular baking and bakery: Missen Link Burgers; * Most popular butchers: 3J’s Butchers; * Most popular cafe and coffee shops: Food Co on Franklin; * Most popular in fitness and gyms: Area 365 Health & Fitness; * Most popular in hair and beauty: Hello Curl; * Most popular in health and wellbeing: Traralgon Relaxation and Recovery Centre; * Most popular media and photography: Gippsland FM; * Most popular in micro/homebased business: Meg Moo Macarons; * Most popular professional services: Lifeline Gippsland; * Most popular pubs and clubs: Morwell Bowling Club; * Most popular restaurant: Cafe Evviva; * Most popular in retail: Changing Seasons; * Most popular takeaway: Pax Hill Pizza; * Most popular trade: Virtue Homes; The Latrobe City Business Chamber aims to serve, connect, support and represent all Latrobe City businesses. Membership are available. To learn more, email marketing@lcbc.org.au

LV Express: Best in the business at People’s Choice Awards #News #LatrobeCityBusinessChamber #LatrobeValley

Region pauses for Remembrance Day By BLAKE METCALF-HOLT, KATRINA BRANDON, LIAM DURKIN and AIDAN KNIGHT   AUSTRALIANS paused at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month last week, uniting in solemn reflection to honour the men and women who served our nation in times of war, conflict and peacekeeping. Remembrance Day is a time to acknowledge the courage, sacrifice and enduring legacy of those who have worn our uniform with pride. Services were held across the Latrobe Valley.   Traralgon MANY withstood the cold and wet conditions in Traralgon to pay respect to all those who’ve served and sacrificed their lives for our country. The service still went ahead outdoors at the Traralgon Cenotaph with around 50 people present, umbrellas and all, officiated by Lt Colonel Doug Caulfield OAM RFD (Retired). Etched into the war memorial is the 52 Traralgon locals whose lives were claimed during World War 1. Groups and individuals were presented with the opportunity to lay wreathes, following the Lord’s Prayer from Pastor Randall Green. Lest We Forget: Wreaths laid at the Traralgon cenotaph. Photograph: Blake Metcalf-Holt President of the Traralgon RSL Sub Branch, Daniel Fletcher laid the first wreath in front of the Traralgon war memorial before both local rotary clubs (Rotary Club of Traralgon and Rotary Club of Traralgon Central), Traralgon Lions Club, Catholic Women’s Association, and Traralgon Police followed suit. All primary and secondary schools in the area also marked their respects with a wreath. Latrobe City Mayor Dale Harriman and Member for Eastern Victoria Region Melina Bath were also present. Mr Fletcher recited the Ode of Remembrance, while Lt Col. Caulfield read out a personal poem from Traralgon local Dave O’Connell. Next year marks the centenary year of the Traralgon RSL, with plenty of events planned.   Morwell ALL rugged up due to heavy rain, around 100 people gathered inside the Morwell RSL Sub Branch on Remembrance Day. This was the first year that Remembrance Day was held inside due to the weather. A record low temperature hit for this year’s service, with temperatures getting as low as five degrees in the Latrobe Valley and up to 25mm of rain predicted throughout the day. Rain eased during the event, only to strike again after the services were completed. Within the warmth of the RSL, attendees bowed their heads in silence for those who had fallen for our country. Address: Morwell RSL Sub Branch President Don Fuller speaking on Remembrance Day. Photograph: Katrina Brandon Morwell RSL Sub Branch President Don Fuller led the event, accompanied by instrumentals from the Morwell Citizens Band, who later played the Australian National Anthem, Last Post and The Ode. “It was on this day 107 years ago, at about four o’clock in the morning in northern France, the allies and the Germans agreed to a ceasefire of hostilities at 11am on that day,” Mr Fuller told the crowd. Sacred Heart Primary School’s house captains Scarlet and Jenna recited Flander’s Fields. In attendance was Korean War veteran, Jack Darling (98), 101-year-old WW2 veteran Joyce Castello, two past presidents of the Morwell RSL Sub Branch, Bruce Jeffrey and Wayne Mutterson, Member for Morwell Martin Cameron, members of the local police force, schools and locals who wanted to pay their respects.   Moe MOE’s Remembrance Day service welcomed generations of ages who came to pay their respects. Moe RSL Sub Branch President Steve Mayes presided over formalities at the cenotaph, where a minute’s silence was observed and the Australian and New Zealand national anthems played in front of around 50 people. Moe RSL’s immediate past president Ian Caines had the honour of laying the first wreath. Schoolchildren also laid wreaths in tribute to the fallen, as did Moe Ward councillor Adele Pugsley. Fortunately, heavy rain that threatened to hamper proceedings did not fall until after formalities concluded. RSL personnel then made their way into the clubrooms. Inside, Mr Caines was joined by Moe RSL past president Rex Daly, Tom Hunt and Peter Shears. The four were all called up for National Service, boarding the same train in July 1966 to form part of the 12th Platoon of the Recruit Training Battalion at Puckapunyal. Much like the iconic Redgum song, (“the passing out parade at Puckapunyal”) they weren’t much older than 19. “Here we are, we all just turned 80,” Mr Daly said. The quartet say they share a “very strong bond”, despite life taking them to different places over the intervening year’s post-Vietnam.   Trafalgar LOCALS gathered at the Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL to mark Remembrance Day, joining Australians nationwide in honouring the courage and sacrifice of those who served in the country’s armed forces. There was close to 60 people in attendance, of all ages and community groups. Though it was scheduled for outside at the cenotaph, the weather was in such a state that it was moved indoors for the betterment of retired servicemen susceptible to pneumonia, at the request of Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL President Jim Crowe. He began the address, speculating that the highly decorated walls of the RSL were “a little bit better inside than outside, but the significance of Remembrance Day hasn’t been lost by having it inside.” Mr Crowe spoke of the casualties and survivors from the former Narracan Shire serving far and wide in each conflict, and the notoriety of the Western Front, in which Trafalgar saw 186 of its own (across Belgium and France). More than 680 men from Trafalgar were listed for overseas service in World War 1, with 65 reported as killed in action or died of wounds during overseas service. Formal: The Trafalgar service was shifted indoors. Pictured is Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL Secretary Paul Altamore, Vietnam veteran Bill Kilday, past Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL President Ray James OAM, serviceman David Graham and Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL President Jim Crowe. Photograph: Aidan Knight “There were few local families who did not have a member or acquaintance who was not a wartime casualty,” Mr Crowe said. A roll call of names followed, delivered by Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL Secretary Paul Altimore. In a poignant gesture, no ranks were cited: “In death, they are all considered equal.” The service also featured remarks from Reverend Dr Dean Spalding, who reflected both on his own family’s military history and the shared grief and resilience of the community. Wreaths were laid by veterans representing each conflict, before CFA, Lions and Rotary clubs, Trafalgar High and Primary schools, 1st Trafalgar Scout Group and Baw Baw Shire East Ward Councillor Brendan Kingwell did likewise. The ceremony closed with moving prayers for peace, gratitude for freedom, and a rendition of the Lord’s Prayer, inviting those present to recall and treasure the freedoms so dearly won.

LV Express: Region pauses for Remembrance Day #News #LatrobeValley #MoeRSL

Community concert coming By KATRINA BRANDON MUSIC sensation is set for Moe Town Hall on November 15. Bringing in a collaboration from Latrobe Community Concert Band (LCCB), Morwell Citizens Band, West Gippsland Concert Band, and local saxophone sensation Saxsation, attendees can relax for free to the combined performance of the four bands. Starting at 2pm, the bands will perform familiar pieces and other songs, waltzing the crowd into a musical escape. “It’s great to have this free concert, because hopefully people come and say, ‘I might want to come and join our band’,” LCCB’s Kerry de Vent told the Express. Each band will play a set and later perform as a combined band, featuring brass, woodwinds, and percussion. All the bands are full of musicians at all levels and ages, sharing a wide variety of instruments. Alongside the performance, Ms de Vent said that if people would like to try instruments, they can come along to band practices. The LCCB has instruments available to lend at no cost. “If they feel like something, they can come and borrow an instrument; we cater for beginners,” she said. “We play a range of different music, starting from really beginners up to quite intermediate level. For a new musician, just come along, have a listen and have a go. We don’t discriminate based on ability. If you have just learnt how to play a few notes, come along.” Throughout the year, the bands also perform at various events, including the traditional Christmas performances. For passionate listeners, an earlier session of the collaboration is also playing at Yarragon Public Hall this Saturday (November 8) at 2pm.  

LV Express: Community concert coming #Community #LatrobeCommunityConcertBandLCCB #LatrobeValley

Morwell home to the SEC, but only 11 jobs By AIDAN KNIGHT   STATE government presence was strong in the Latrobe Valley last week, which began with a visit from the Premier and culminated in another from the Minister for the State Electricity Commission. Lily D’Ambrosio travelled to stand alongside SEC chief executive Chris Miller in Morwell last Friday (October 24) to open the SEC Community Hub located at 248 Commercial Road. The building was previously the original home of the SEC credit union. The SEC executive noted that in a sense, “history has come full circle” as the re-established SEC is now building its home in the same building that once housed the company’s member bank. The hub is designed to be more than just an office space, intended as a community resource where locals can learn about the energy transition, get advice on electrification, and explore future career opportunities. Mr Miller emphasised that the hub will provide a welcoming, inclusive space for people to reminisce about the original SEC’s legacy while also looking forward to the new energy future. “This hub is intended to be a community space, a space where people can feel welcome, can talk about and reminisce about the wonderful legacy of the original SEC, but also look forward and understand what the role of the new SEC is, but what people can do at household level to participate in this transition and reduce their costs and reduce their energy bills,” he said. “We had a number of firms helping us out with the construction and fit-out, including Chris Humphrey Office National, who led the work to fit out the hub,” Mr Miller said. “We had LV Solar install the solar panels that appear on the roof of the facility.” Preserving power’s past: Tony Salvatore from the Morwell Historical Society holds a vintage SEC uniform, part of the collection donated to celebrate the region’s proud energy heritage. Photographs: Aidan Knight Mr Miller said the SEC was already building strong connections with the region’s major employers. “We’re now retailing proudly to a number of really significant institutions in the Latrobe Valley, including Latrobe Regional Hospital, TAFE Gippsland and a number of public schools,” he said. Inside the hub, visitors can explore model electric appliances including a heat pump and induction cooktop, to see first-hand how electric technology benefits households. Historical artefacts from the original organisation’s golden era, kindly donated by the Morwell Historical Society, are also on display. Educational sessions and school visits will be a key feature of the hub, while local community groups and businesses are encouraged to use the facilities for meetings, events and information sessions. While celebrating the hub as a symbol of the SEC’s revival, Ms D’Ambrosio became visibly frustrated when questioned about the number of staff actually based in Morwell. Mr Miller had told media present at the presser that there would be 11 SEC employees staffed at the location, later to reveal that the SEC has close to 135 staff in total. This was brought into question when one reporter present asked if 11 out of 135 in one location really reflects Morwell as “the home of the SEC”. The Minister deflected, emphasasing the hub’s broader significance for the region’s energy future, and how “this is the new SEC”. “Let’s not forget how we ended up here”, she continued, arguing that past privatisation – rather than current staffing decisions – was to blame for lost local jobs. “(The Liberals) sold off all of the SEC and all of its assets owned by the people of Victoria, the jobs, the traineeships, the apprenticeships that were supported by the SEC, all of that was flogged off for international, global corporate profit. And those profits left this country, not only Victoria, they left the country. “It’s about the new SEC now; it’s about the new energy system. And that is why what we have here today, the hub, is about that new journey for kids and young people, and those people already switched on, those young people understand and embrace the new energy of the future. And excuse me, this hub here is to enable them to imagine where they can fit into that new system in terms of careers and jobs.” This tension escalated during questions about the Loy Yang B power station’s potential future, following the Express’s visit to the Alinta-owned site earlier that week. Ms D’Ambrosio curtly responded to queries about its potential closure, before her PR manager cut the press conference short after tersely reaffirming the government’s renewable energy targets. More positively, the SEC confirmed that its most significant current project is the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub – one of the world’s largest batteries at 600 megawatts – expected to be operational by the end of this year. “We’ve got a large battery, well progressed through the construction phase, just on the outskirts of Melbourne near Calder Park, the Melbourne renewable energy hub, one of the biggest batteries in the world, 600 megawatts, and that program has run very effectively,” Mr Miller said. “We’re on track to be commissioning that asset by the end of this year, and that asset is going to play a really important role in the energy system as we increase the rollout and penetration of renewables, because that what that battery is able to do is soak up the vast amounts of rooftop solar energy during the middle of the day when the demand is lower, and effectively shift that energy into later parts of the day when the demand is higher.” While the project underscores Victoria’s renewable ambitions, questions remain over the SEC’s local employment impact. Alinta Energy’s Loy Yang B station currently hires around 90 per cent of its workforce from Gippsland, compared to the SEC’s small Morwell contingent. Mr Miller himself exposed when answering the question on staffing, that the use of the previous building was not only a nostalgic one, but a strategic one to make the hub more appealing as a workplace, just not to Gippslanders. In the middle of our street: The SEC Community Hub is located at 248 Commercial Road, Morwell. “This is one of the reasons we’ve established the hub, to make this a really attractive, vibrant, modern workspace right next to the train station, so it’s very accessible to Melbourne, and we’ve had a very steady stream of traffic, of staff coming down here, often for days at a time, to work up alongside our Morwell base.” This subtly suggests that there is some intention for the hub to be positioned more as a convenient satellite office, close to the power stations, for Melbourne-based SEC workers, despite rhetoric about supporting Latrobe Valley’s economic transition amid the emergence of renewables. A press release provided to the Express by the Minister’s media team stated the government’s intention to boost employment by 60 per cent, equating to jobs for 67,000 people by 2040. However, no details were included about specific employment targets for the Latrobe Valley – the heart of the SEC’s original operations and the region once responsible for keeping Victoria’s lights on. Media time was cut when the topic of offshore wind was raised, and the Minister’s office informed the Express later that day they will provide an updated timeline by the end of the year. The SEC Community Hub is open to the public every Monday, Tuesday and Friday onward from 10am to 2pm.

LV Express: Morwell home to the SEC, but only 11 jobs #News #ChrisMiller #LatrobeValley

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Hearing the voice of youth through discussion By KATRINA BRANDON   THE people most impacted by the future are the youth. Recently, Latrobe Youth Space hosted a youth climate discussion, where local youngsters could share their thoughts on issues related to climate change. The discussion branched out into many different topics and saw the group brainstorm ideas. UNICEF Young Ambassador and Gippsland Youth Spaces Co-Chair, Lincoln Ingravalle led the group, while youth representative Harley (Harlequin) Goodes helped guide the session. “As the most vulnerable and at-risk group in the world to climate change now and into the future, youth deserve to have their voices heard and their concerns heard,” Mr Ingravalle told the Express. “By engaging them on this topic, giving them more knowledge about disasters and climate change, what’s going on, just these conversations can then also make them think a bit more about health, their education and what they’re losing when these disasters occur, and thinking about it in a targeted way, not just ‘this is the way it is’.” UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children, works to protect the rights of every child, particularly the most disadvantaged and those who are hardest to reach. UNICEF was established in the aftermath of World War 2 to help children whose lives and futures were at risk – no matter what role their country had played in the war. Now, UNICEF operates the world’s largest humanitarian warehouse and oversees an unparalleled logistics network. Together with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), individuals like Mr Ingravalle are travelling the world, engaging with young people, and sparking a conversation about the future. “All over the world, (we) are a part of the preparation for COP (Conference of the Parties), which is a part of the UNFCCC,” Mr Ingravalle said. “(It’s) the world coming together to talk about climate change and build the goals for the next 12 months. There are what are called constituencies of COP in the UNFCCC, and there are nine. They are tasked with going around and asking people in the world, young people in the lead up, what they think about climate change, and what they want leaders to do.” The National Statement on Climate Change or the Youth National Statement has been sent to Canberra and delivered to federal politicians. While current youth have access to online sources for information, Mr Ingravalle said it was still important to hold open discussions. “Social media has its ups and downs, but we are exposed to more information, good or bad, and able to commit to causes and things we’re passionate about much easier,” he said. “Making sure that we’re giving the knowledge and the education so that people can be well informed to ask them and demand their rights in those spaces and within Parliament and other places to control the decision making and have a stronger influence. “(We are) helping them, giving them the words or letting them find out for themselves, meaning that they can help their communities. They can help themselves.” Alongside the educational and sociological impacts of the workshops, Ms Goodes said events like these were great in making local and state leaders aware of issues important to youth. “Strengthening bonds means that you can build those connections between metropolitan and regional. But there needs to be that platform, that way to do it, because otherwise you’re just bumping heads because you have different issues,” she said. Opportunities such as the workshop are among the many services that Latrobe Youth Space provides to and supports local youth between the ages of 12 and 25. Latrobe Youth Space also offers meals and kits to youth in need. Gippland Youth Spaces Chief Executive, Sandy Hegarty, told the Express, “In June, we had 682 visits to drop-in sessions alone in that two months. So it was just under eight weeks. We distributed nearly 800 meals during that time.” “We are sitting around 100 meals a week, and that’s only dropping; that’s not including our program until we get our food as well. We have also delivered backpacks out to CFA and a range of community locations across Gippsland. Two hundred of them have gone to East Gippsland and 200 have gone to Wellington.” Each backpack includes things that youth might need in an emergency situation where they need to up and leave home, such as socks, a first aid kit and wind-up flashlight.

LV Express: Hearing the voice of youth through discussion #Community #GippslandYouthSpaces #LatrobeValley

Irreplaceable Latrobe Health Assembly By AIDAN KNIGHT   THE Latrobe Health Assembly is still picking up the pieces following the bombshell funding decision from the state government. The Assembly will permanently close at the end of November, after the state government refused to reverse its funding cut announced in the wake of this year’s state budget. As the Assembly winds down after almost a decade, the future is uncertain for the Latrobe Valley’s prospects of better health outcomes. Partnerships built are also at risk of deteriorating, with the funding of other programs in the region cut as well. Assembly Chairperson, Tanya Rong told the Express she was deeply disappointed by the government’s decision to not reconsider the cut, and also how sudden the initial slashing was. Ms Rong said there was also no discussion for a roadmap to continue the existing programs the Assembly has developed for the betterment of the community. “The closure of the Latrobe Health Assembly marks the loss of a unique community-driven model that prioritised prevention and early intervention,” Ms Rong said. “Without investment in preventative health, the community is more vulnerable to avoidable health challenges. The long-term cost of inaction will be far greater than the cost of prevention in both dollars and lives. “We are not just losing an organisation, we are losing a community of people who are united and dedicated to reducing health disparities in this region. There is nothing that replaces the role of the Assembly in Latrobe Valley.” The Assembly has played a crucial part in more than 200 programs and initiatives over its eight-year lifespan in the wake of the Hazelwood mine fire. The Assembly has turned its online presence post-closure to “shining a light on the community projects that were and ones that could have been” before the defunding. There is hope that some of these programs will be absorbed and adopted by other organisations, as much of the groundwork has been done thanks to the commitment of the Assembly. Despite passionate community advocacy, the campaign to save the LHA failed to sway the state government. A protest outside Parliament last month drew only a handful of people, though local Nationals MPs, Martin Cameron and Melina Bath both attended. More than 1200 volunteers gave their time to the LHA alongside paid staff, making it one of the most locally involved health bodies of its kind in the state. The Latrobe Health Assembly was formed in June 2017, and will cease to exist by November 30 this year.

LV Express: Irreplaceable Latrobe Health Assembly #News #LatrobeHealthAssembly #LatrobeValley

हवाई अड्डाLatrobe Valley में Morwell (आस्ट्रेलिया)के लिए विमानन मौसम और डेटा YLTV TGN हवाई अड्डाLatrobe Valley में Morwell (आस्ट्रेलिया)TAF और METAR के साथ विमानन मौसम, नक्शे, होटल और वैमानिक जानकारी

हवाई अड्डाLatrobe Valley में Morwell (आस्ट्रेलिया) का विमानन मौसम है “METAR YLTV 120030Z AUTO 27008KT 9999 // OVC057 11/05 Q1025 RMK RF00.0/000.0” : पर देखें इसका क्या मतलब है https://www.bigorre.org/aero/meteo/yltv/hi #morwell # #latrobevalley #yltv #tgn #metar #aviation #विमाननमौसम #avgeek vl

Could Worker Co-ops Help the Latrobe Valley Go Green? - Blog - Solar Directory Worker cooperatives like Earthworker are offering green job alternatives in Victoria's Latrobe Valley, blending sustainability with economic democracy.

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Climate crisis escalates cost-of-living pressures A new report has found direct connections between the climate crisis and rising cost-of-living pressures. Failure to lower emissions now will only aggravate the crisis, with each moment of inaction co...

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Deb Leonard 4 Monash Deb Leonard - Community Independent - Delivering More for Monash. The communities of Bass Coast Shire, Baw Baw Shire, South Gippsland Shire and Latrobe Valley deserve more. Deb will deliver. Vote 1 D...

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'Opposition..spokesman Ted O’Brien told The Age potential locations remained a “work-in-progress”,but he had been advised that “communities with experience hosting coal plants could be ideal potential hosts for zero-emissions nuclear plants”...