THE last three known remaining Leadbeater's possums from the Lake Mountain colony have been rescued following concern for their survival.
The possums, two young males and an adult female, were found last week and taken to Healesville Sanctuary.
The move follows work by volunteers from the Friends of the Leadbeaters groups, who braved weather extremes over the past three winters to feed, monitor and ensure the animals' survival.
Department of Sustainability and Environment project leader Bram Mason said an extensive search confirmed only three possums remained from the colony estimated at 300-plus before Black Saturday.
Healesville Sanctuary director Glen Holland said the possums had settled in.
"Nocturnal video footage shows them eating well and exploring their new environment," Mr Holland said.
Diabetes class
A WARRNAMBOOL hospital is offering to educate teachers about type-1 diabetes in a bid to increase awareness.
St John of God Hospital's program is being offered to all schools.
"There is an increased incidence of children with type-1 diabetes (who) require extra support and management to enable them to fully participate in all school activities," diabetes co-ordinator Ann Morris said.
Driven to mentor
LEARNER drivers who need to clock up 130 hours behind the wheel will have access to a mentor program in the Buloke and Loddon shires.
Buloke Mayor David Pollard said the program would link volunteer instructors with learner drivers.
Cr Pollard said getting a driver's licence was important for young people because the region had limited public transport. Information: phone 5493 7395.
Back-to-front triathlon
TRIATHLETES spend hours training their legs to ease into the transition from riding to running but the organisers of the Boort Hockey Club's reverse triathlon are about to test competitors.
The club's triathlon on February 26 will see contestants tackle the run first, followed by the ride, and lastly the swim.
Club president David Meadows said the triathlon and the club's annual tomato drive were its main sources of funding.
"This is the second time we've run the triathlon and we hope it will become an annual event," Mr Meadows said.
"Last year, we had about 30 kids on the short course and around 100 competitors all up," he said.
The two course options can be tackled by individuals, or as a team.
Entry fees range from $5 to $15. The event starts from the Boort Swimming Pool at 9am. People can enter on the day.
Boost for racing clubs
THREE country racing clubs will receive state government money to buy or upgrade equipment.
Racing Minister Denis Napthine said Kilmore would get $42,254 for barriers, Cobram would buy a water truck with $55,500 and Terang would upgrade its water truck with $17,600.
"Track watering is an important element to protect the safety of horses and drivers by ensuring an even surface and by settling dust before and after a big race," Dr Napthine said.
