CR. ERLANDSON

The annual election of President of the Warragul Shire took place, prior to commencing the ordinary business.

The secretary was voted to the chair, and said the first business of the meeting was the fixing of the Presidential allowance.

An apology from non-attendance was received from Cr. McFarlane, who, in his letter, suggested that the Presidential allowance be increased. The amount had remained the same for several years, while conditions generally had altered.

Crs. Oliver and Paynter moved that the amount be the same as last year, £50.

Cr. Copeland submitted an amendment that the allowance be increased by £20. There being no seconder, the amendment lapsed.

Cr. Oliver moved that Cr. Erlandson be elected President for the ensuing year. Seconded by Cr. Keating.

A wild melee involving players, umpires, spectators and police marred the Ellinbank District Football League grand final at Drouin.

More than 200 were involved in the incident, which occurred just as the three-quarter time siren sounded in the Seniors match between Poowong and Hallora-Strzelecki.

Poowong Reserves player Raymond Hancock, 19, who had played a leading role in his side’s win over Hallora earlier in the day, was later rushed to a Melbourne hospital with severe facial injuries.

In the most sensational EDFL fixture for years –

Poowong won the premiership “double” – reserves and seniors;

Hallora-Strzelecki seniors defender Bob Hackett was reported for allegedly striking veteran Poowong full forward Bob Kellam;

Hallora-Strzelecki Reserves captain Bruno Persico was taken to a Melbourne hospital with severe facial injuries when he was accidently kicked during the second quarter;

Players, trainers, spectators, officials and police were involved in two wild melees; and

Police ordered five people to leave the ground.