Clyde North’s Balla Balla Community Centre invited women to answer the question ‘what makes you feel included?’ to celebrate this year’s InternationalWomen’s Day. Arts and crafts, educational workshops and morning tea made for a lovely morning of reflection and togetherness for the attendees.
Story page 18
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERSWith the passing of the sweltering weekend, complaints from public transport users have become commonplace with the lack of shelters at bus stops.
In the City of Casey, there are a total of 1165 bus stops, however only 442 of those have shelters; with 295 owned and maintained by the State Government and 147 green shelters maintained by the council.
A resident said that while she would like to see more shelters, she was“probably more concerned for people with disabilities, trying to cope with things like the weather and such”.
“When there isn’t a bus shelter they’re most likely going to be the least understanding as to why there isn’t one to begin with,” she said.
Another Cranbourne North local said that her concern was more on safety, that “people
are on the side of the road and you’d want the shelter to make it obvious that there’s a person there”.
“But of course the weather, it could be in the middle of winter and you don’t want to get caught in the rain or be standing too long out there because what if you get wet and you’re on your way to work or school,” she said.
Paul Westcott, from the Public Transport Users Association, said that the issue is longstanding and would require proper collaboration between local councils and the Department of Transportation and Planning.
“The responsibility of bus stops and bus shelters is shared between the local council and the DTP under the Transport Integration Act,” he said.
With his previous role of 15 years being Geelong’s branch convenor, Mr Westcott is now the PTUA’s regional spokesperson, cover-
ing areas of public transportation throughout Victoria.
“The problem is whenever you contact the council and say that people have been saying that they want a shelter here, they will tell us that they don’t have sufficient money to do it because the DTP hasn’t given them the funds.
“When you contact the DTP they’ll tend to just tell you that they’ve given the council xamount of dollars over the last 12 months and it’s their job to put the shelters on their behalf,” MrWestcott said.
He summarised the situation as a “buckpassing exercise” where the bus travellers are the ones caught in the middle of the commotion.
According to the Department of Transport, the City of Casey has been a member of the department’s Bus Shelter Agreement (BSA) since 2007 and is also included in the recent contract
which refreshed and commenced in March 2024.
“We’ve been working closely with the City of Casey Council to install bus shelters and deliver a safe, convenient public transport experience for the community,” a DTP spokesperson said.
Mr Westcott said that while his 15 years of experience had been concentrated in Geelong, throughout the same period he found that the same situation can be observed throughout multiple councils in the state.
“Officially it’s the job of the State Government to provide shelters, but they’ve always relied on councils.
“The DTP doesn’t have squads of people that can do the job so they contract it out, they rely on local councils and they do provide money, but these councils always say it’s not enough,” he said.
Continued page 2
Smart technology in Casey is set to drive ground-breaking research into road safety and waste reduction.
City of Casey has launched its Future Mobility Living Lab (FMLL) which will trial smart mobility technologies to get insight into road safety and schools.
The FMLL will respond to parents’ concerns about student road safety in trips to and from Narre Warren South P-12 as well as during drop-off and pick-up times.
By installing sensors, data will be collected and analysed by Federation University and Swinburne University research teams.
Their recommendations will help inform the school and Casey to improve safety in the local school zone.
The lab will also focus on reducing waste and emissions, and building streets and transport infrastructure with a lower environmental impact.
Leading research organisation National Transport Research Organisation (NTRO) will also collaborate with the FMLL.
NRTO’s work includes researching construction materials that incorporate recycled waste that would otherwise go to landfill.
City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff said the FMLL project aligned with goals of protecting residents and a sustainable environment.
“The Future Mobility Living Lab will take
great strides towards creating a space where everyone can feel secure and our city can thrive sustainably as we shape the future of
mobility in Casey.
“Through Living Lab projects, council can test and implement new ideas and technolo-
gies, developed with the active participation of the community, with the intent to deliver better outcomes for our community.”
From page 1
The situation for Mr Westcott has barely changed over the last 15 years, where at one stage the PTUA attempted to enact a process for local councils to put bus shelters in, but both said councils and the DTP couldn’t come to an agreement.
He said that “the situation is extremely muddy, and we always say that buses are the invisible public transport medium”.
“People get very worked up about rail, even tram, people get very passionate about them, but for buses, it’s almost like if the vehicle doesn’t run on rails it’s not public transport - they’re left in limbo.”
A Clyde North shopper said that shelter is a big issue, considering “four seasons in one day, we definitely need more”.
“It’s not so much because of the sun, but more so the rain, people would just get soaking wet when they’re going anywhere and it’s pouring.
“With rain, you’ve got to cover from all these angles, and there’s always wind so an umbrella won’t even help, so at least with a shelter you’re covered on one side and only have to worry about the other,” he said.
For Mr Westcott, the issue also spread to other avenues, where he thought that “the bus system is almost like a social service system, it’s for people who can’t drive for a
range of reasons”.
“It takes a lot to get people out of their cars; it doesn’t give them the frequency, the spread of hours, the operation or the directness of routes.
“Bus routes can be started up and run pretty quickly, you don’t need rails or overhead electric power.
“We’ve got millions of dollars being spent
on the rail infrastructure and while I’m not saying it shouldn’t be built, the bus system is being left to languish,” he said.
The PTUA is looking at the beginning of a sustainable cities campaign on Thursday 14 March, with Friends of the Earth at Williams Landing in the western suburbs, an event which Mr Westcott hopes to act as a launching pad for other parts of the system
and the state.
As for the DTP, they’ve renewed their partnership with oOh! Media following a recent re-tendering of the bus shelter agreement.
This means oOh! Will continue management of advertising services, cleaning, maintenance, contraction and installation of roughly 5000 bus shelters across the state, including the City of Casey.
A Victorian firefighter union has lashed out at a minister’s claim that the fire rescue for the 3 March Clyde North fire was delivered within the standard time.
A residential fire destroyed eight garages and one townhouse on Spartan Avenue on the morning of Sunday 3 March, one road across the proposed Clyde North Fire Station site.
When Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes was questioned on the absence of the station by Shadow Minister Ann-Marie Hermans in parliament two days later, she responded by saying she was advised that the Clyde CFA tanker arrived first within the Service Delivery Standard (SDS).
“The response from crews was well coordinated and, I am advised, extremely quick,” she said.
United Firefighters Union delegates reached out to Star News and said the response time for the Clyde CFA tanker was 8 minutes 48 seconds, which was 48 seconds longer than the SDS for the Medium Urban area.
According to CFA, response time is measured from when the brigade is alerted to an event to when the first brigade vehicle arrives on the scene.
Star News is in possession of the fire service data extracted from Triple 0 Victoria time stamp chronology, an independent external organisation that is responsible for the communication dispatch of the fire services and could confirm that the Clyde Tanker 1 was alerted at 8:12:14 and arrived on scene at 8:21:02, which amounted to a response time of 8 minutes and 48 seconds.
FRV’s Cranbourne senior station officer and United Firefighters Union delegate Geoff Barker, who attended the fire rescue, said on behalf of the union that they were really quite surprised that the minister was saying in parliament that this fire met service delivery timeframes as the time stamp said a different story.
“It [the time stamp] is locked in,” he said.
“I can’t change that. You can’t change that. We can’t change it.
“The time stamp is about Budget Paper No.3. It goes straight to the government for Budget Paper No.3 compliance.”
Mr Barker clarified that when he told Star News last week that the response time was more than 10 minutes, he was referring to the span between the initial Triple 0 call and the arrival time.
He said regardless of how you measured the time frame, the response time should have been less than a minute.
“Had the fire station been built, it [fire rescue] would have likely occurred under 90 seconds and the fire impact would have been significantly reduced,” he said.
Freda, who lost the townhouse her family had been residing in for only two years to the
fire, said she felt like it “seemed forever” before she heard the sirens after calling the Triple 0. She remembered when she called Triple 0, it was mentioned there was a nearby fire station, so she was expecting sirens straight away.
“The firefighters did a wonderful job, and it could have been worse if not for their hard work and putting their lives at risk to do what they have to do,” she said.
“They were there in less than 10 minutes. It probably just feels like such a long time for me because of the panicked state I was in.
“Everything felt longer than how it actually was.”
Out of curiosity, Freda searched for the nearby fire station days later and saw there was a plan for a fire station just one road across her house.
“But that’s been a long-time plan,” she said. “I was surprised when I read that piece of information.
“I’m not being political or something. I think this party has failed the people of Clyde North because this has been like a plan for the longest time for a fire station to service Clyde North.”
Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes was contacted for comment.
The Kililit family who lost their townhouse to the 3 March Clyde North fire wanted to extend their gratitude towards the firefighters for risking their lives to put out the fire and the community for helping out with immediate needs for goods.
“The main thing is we’re all safe,” Freda Kililit said, speaking with Star News five days after the fire.
“My daughter’s already trying to reestablish her usual routines. My husband has gone
back to work.
“And I’m just busy just sorting out admin, like insurance for the house.”
Though the family has been staying strong ever since the accident, they are still reeling from the loss of their newly built house.
“It’s most likely a knockdown and rebuild situation,” Freda said.
“There have been not even two years since we moved into that house. It’s a very new house.
“We’ve got comprehensive home insur-
ance, but they’re going to determine if our insurance is sufficient to cover it. At this point, we still don’t have the numbers yet.”
Freda said she wanted to clarify that the fire did not start from her house or garage.
“Everyone’s assumption is that it started from my house because that’s where the damage was, but it wasn’t,” she said.
“Looking at footage from my husband’s dashcam when he was bringing our car out of the garage, there were already flames in the neighbours’ garages.
“We didn’t even think that it would come to our property. As to the source of the fire, we’re still waiting on the report, the final report from the fire investigators.”
The Kililit family also wanted to thank the Meridian and Bloom communities.
“I could not thank them one by one, but everyone just came together and dropped off stuff and groceries and prayed for us,” Freda said.
If anyone in the community would like to help out the family with home appliances, please contact Freda at 0478 781 126.
The State Government released the design of the long-awaited Clyde North Police Station on Friday 8 March, and tenders for construction will be released in the coming months.
Located on the corner of Newgrange Boulevard and Matterhorn Drive, the new station will deliver modern facilities forVictoria Police to keep the community safe, the government said.
The funding of the station is part of a $78 million investment in Melbourne’s growing south-east corridor.
“Our record investments are about making sure Victoria Police has all the resources they need to keep the community safe,” Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards said.
“We’re delivering modern police stations equipped with future-proofed design features, so our police have the facilities they need now and into the future.”
Berwick MP Brad Battin said this station had been years late, and the community had seen a massive increase in crime including violent home invasions.
“Labor is amazing at spin and terrible on delivery,” he said.
“The Clyde North Community was promised a new 24-hour Police Station in 2018 with a guarantee it would be open by 2022. Now, they are saying we are only heading to the tender process.
“It is common knowledge that Labor is out of money and these delays just kick the can down the road. To pay for Labor’s financial mess, Casey residents’ community safety was put at risk. I will believe Labor when I see police responding from the station.”
Builders are invited to enter a formal submission to build the station.
Devon Meadows Primary School held another one of its successful colour run fundraisers on Friday 8 March, with kids of all ages getting involved in the fun - and some of the adults, too!
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A new women’s team from District 9 and 27’s Women’s Networking Groups are joining forces and hitting the running track to warm up for the upcoming Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria State Firefighter Championships later this month.
Having both formed in 2018, the dedicated Women’s Networking Groups consists of more than 150 passionate members, with 100 in District 9 and 77 in District 27.
The Senior Urban and Senior Rural events will be held at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve on Saturday 23 March and Sunday 24 March.
Warragul brigade firefighter and District 9 and 27 Women’s Networking Group member Dani Watkins said the group of seven women were gearing up for the championships.
“Like most of the South East region, we have a Women’s Network in District 9 and 27,“ she said.
“However, we decided to combine the two for the event because 27 is quite small.
“A couple of us decided we would put together a running team because it looked like a bit of fun.“
Ms Watkins said the team is working with assistance from Pearcedale Fire Brigade to get up to speed with the specifics of the events, training once a week or once a fortnight in the lead up to the state event.
“It has been really good to train with Pearcedale,“ she said.
“We were essentially starting from scratch with no prior knowledge of any of the activities.
“We called them up and asked them if we could join them for a training session and they’ve been really accommodating since and have taught us so much.“
Fellow network member and Tanjil Fire Brigade firefighter Margaret ’Maggs’ Harrison was
quick to put her hand up to represent her brigade at the championships.
“When we met to discuss the State Firefighter Championships, I thought I may as well jump into the opportunity and give it a shot with the other women for the first time too,“
she said.
“I’ve found training with Pearcedale to be enlightening.
“It’s been great to watch how they work together and understand how they work as a team.“
Thumbs up
Casey Council listened and replaced the speed lumps on Central Park way with more reasonable ones.
Thumbs up
To all the people who stopped to help my granddaughter and get her car back on its wheels after an accident on South Gippsland Highway at 7.30pm on Tuesday 5 March.
Thumbs down
To the terrible weather over the weekend.
A question for International Women’s Day is here. Who is the most inspiring woman in your life?
Jared Mcewan
Dani Laidley and Kaitlyn Jenner.
Mark Rogers
My wife Karina Rogers, Janet Savage and my late Mum Constance.
Pete Tee
My wife.
Mark Walker
Jenna Jamison.
Michael Goldie
Sam Kerr.
Dear Prime Minister, Your first response to Facebook brazenly announcing they’ll stop paying for our news that they use to make a fortune from was…perfect!
“That’s not the Australian way,” you said.
Exactly. Australians hate bullies. Australians fight for a fair go. And this battle is not just a fight for a fair go here - the whole world is watching.
Meta, the trillion dollar tech giant that owns Facebook has built an empire out of content they don’t own. They don’t produce anything. They ‘share’ the great work of others and keep the cash.
The Australian government was the first in the world to call out this scandal, and in 2021 the News Media Bargaining Code forced them to finally pay for news content. But not anymore.
Meta is betting that if they bully the Australian government, they win the world. PM, this is a fight for the future of news and democracy. This is fight against fake news and a fight for a fair go for all journalists who hold the powerful to account, all around the world.
Let’s make sure Australia shows Facebook what a fair go is. The world is watching.
Yours sincerely,
Andrew Schreyer President Country Press AustraliaTell us a fun fact about yourself!
I’m obsessed with the colour pink. The majority of my clothes are pink, my entire backyard is full of pink pot plants, and every appliance in my kitchen is hot pink as well. It’s a colour that makes me happy. Give me a pink cupcake or a pink macaroon and watch my face light up. What do you love the most about your volunteering?
I love being able to make a difference to my community and to where I live. Being able to help others gets me out of my own head and I learn something new every single time. I absolutely love living here, and being able to promote our amazing suburbs, local businesses, and community groups, in some small way is a wonderful feeling. I’ve volunteered in Casey and Cardinia for the past 15 years - reading to the elderly in local nursing homes, sitting on the board of a Community Bank, former president of a local resident group and then mentoring other new resident groups and helping them get started, and former president of the Casey MultiFaith Group for example.
If you were an animal, what animal would you be?
I’d be a Chihuahua. Because they are small (I’m not the tallest person in the world so I can relate) and fierce when they need to be. I’m still working on the fierce part.
What was your most memorable moment?
Realising that it’s never too late to be who you were meant to be and that everything I want is on the other side of fear. When you finally take a stand and realise that you do deserve to be happy, everything changes. I can pinpoint the exact moment that happened to me and use that memory to spur me on every single day. I also use this in my volunteer work with survivors of domestic violence and as a volunteer mental health first aider.
What were you like as a kid?
I read every book I could get my hands on and
lived in the fantasy world they created, in order to get away from an abusive upbringing. I’m not backwards in coming forwards about my past because I’m proof that you are not defined by what has happened to you. What event, past or present, would you like to witness?
That’s a hard one - so many amazing events in history. I think any event where mankind got together to change something for the better would be lovely. Imagine being present at the signing of a peace treaty, or the release of prisoners of war. That would be a moment you’d never forget. Mind you, watching something incredible like the Eiffel Tower or the Sydney Opera House being built too would be awesome.
with Kathy BurgstahlerWhat three words would your friends use to describe you?
Bubbly, eccentric, passionate.
What would you do on your perfect day off? I’d go and spend the day in nature. One of my favourite things to do is pack a picnic and go for a long hike in one of our amazing parks with my partner. I can totally switch off and just be in the moment and no matter what I’m dealing with I can usually come back and revisit it with a much clearer mindset. If I can see an animal or two along the way (thinking of all the kangaroos at Lysterfield Lake) then that’s a bonus.
Where is your happy place?
I created a bucket list of adventures about 10 years ago for fun, but it ended up being the best thing I ever did. I now add to the list all the time and each fun, crazy, ‘out there’ thing I attempt makes me incredibly happy. From simple things like trying a new food or going to a fancy dress party, to taking a flying lesson, each experience has pushed or challenged me - and I love that feeling. When you’ve spent a lot of time convincing yourself you can’t do anything, only to find that guess what you actually can, it’s awesome. I have newfound confidence and skills I wouldn’t have had otherwise. All my friends give me vouchers for more adventures now, so it makes my birthdays easier for them too.
If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?
The biggest, pinkest, cupcake ever! Or a big pink macaroon! I love macaroons!
Where is your dream holiday destination?
I would love to go to Ireland to meet my partner’s family and some amazing friends I’ve made online there myself, just from researching various places to visit. The rolling green hills I see in movies would be awesome to run around on and explore.
1 Personal finance
Whether it’s the really big things like saving up for a home, or the somewhat smaller things like planning your weekly grocery budget, your high school maths skills will be sure to help you stay on top of your finances.
2 Cooking
Measuring out exactly 1/13th of a cup is daunting for anyone, but a basic grasp of maths can help make these measurements feel more achievable (and help your cooking taste a whole lot better).
3 Time management Ever arrived somewhere half an hour late even though you planned to arrive a half hour early? Maths can help you avoid this, allowing you to weigh up factors like traffic and parking, and the time needed to get ready, to ensure you get from A to B with perfect timing.
Casey Council is seeking for Local Government Victoria (LGV) to consider prohibiting a councillor found of serious misconduct from standing for election for up to eight years, as part of its response submission to Local Government Reforms 2024.
The reform proposes that the minister will have the power to suspend an individual councillor for up to 12 months if the councillor is found to create a serious risk to the health and safety of the council or is preventing the council from performing its functions.
Further, the governor in the council would have the power to disqualify an individual councillor of serious misconduct from standing at future council elections for up to eight years if the entire council is dismissed.
Casey Council supports the proposals, but it is seeking clarity around the eligibility to stand for upcoming council elections.
“It is noted that the eight-year prohibition only applies when an entire council is dismissed,” Casey Council writes in its submission. “Council asks LGV to consider this being applied to an individual councillor, not just an entire council.”
Casey Council is also seeking further clarity on how to manage the length of time when the councillor is suspended, leaving no representation of the community.
Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association secretary Brian Oates said he would agree with the eight-year suspension. “I believe the electorate in Casey would also agree with that, as long as all things were fair and not some set up, but with the huge amounts allegedly involved in the recent past a life suspension should be considered,” he said.
The ratepayer association recently called on the State Government to ban Casey’s 2016 councillors from standing again in the upcoming election in October.
A new design proposal for the highly-anticipated Banjo Paterson Reserve Dog in Lynbrook is open for public consultation until 26 March.
The location, which is behind the Lynbrook Family and Community Centre, was chosen in response to public consultation in 2023.
According to Casey Council, the location had received overwhelming support from the community, with 87 per cent of responses in support.
Fencing, a drinking fountain, seating, a dog park signage, a waste bin, and entry gates are included in the proposed design following community feedback.
There are currently no dog parks within Lynbrook, which is a gap in provision in accordance with the Dog Friendly Spaces Policy.
Banjo Paterson Reserve has been chosen as it is a large district-level open space that functions as a park and sports reserve.
Communities are invited to view the design proposal and take the opportunity to provide further feedback.
To see the proposal, visit conversations.casey.vic.gov.au/new-dog-parkproposed-banjo-paterson-reserve/banjo-paterson-dog-park-design-proposal
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re easing congestion by building better roads and continuing level crossing removal works in Melbourne’s south east. While we work this autumn, transport disruptions may affect your travel.
What we’ve done
Finished building new lanes and upgrading four key intersections on Hall Road between Carrum Downs and Cranbourne West
Opened the new inbound Princes Freeway
ramp and widened the existing outbound exit ramp at McGregor Road in Pakenham
Upgraded four intersections on Western Port Highway – at Thompsons, Hall, Ballarto and CranbourneFrankston roads
Upgraded 8 new intersections so far as part of the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road Upgrade
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains
Road disruptions:
roads
Fresh from recent sell-out shows in Queensland, QUEEN ROCKS are set to rock The Drum Theatre in Dandenong this March as part of their 2024 Don’t Stop Me Now tour.
QUEEN ROCKS has been amazing audiences for over 20 years with Australia’s most entertaining Queen tribute show.
Authentically capturing Queen’s unique sound and theatrical stage show, QUEEN ROCKS perform all of Queen’s iconic hits, bringing to life the showmanship, musicianship and majestic power that saw Queen rock stadiums all over the world.
“A QUEEN ROCKS show will transport you to a time when Queen were at their live peak, dominating the globe as the world’s number one stadium rock act.” said Jason Hess, the group’s lead singer. “Imagine yourself in the audience at Live Aid responding to Freddie’s spine-tingling ‘AY-OH’s or watching him strut across the stage in his trademark yellow jacket during Queen’s legendary Magic Tour.”
“Our mission is to honour the legacy of Queen by playing their incredible catalogue of songs with the same spirit, energy and sense of fun that Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon brought to the stage in Queen’s extraordinary live performances.” he added.
QUEEN ROCKS’ attention to detail is unsurpassed, using the same original equipment, exact replica stage costumes and delivering the same incredible musicianship and harmony vocals that made Queen’s sound so unique and unmistakable.
You’ll be treated to all of Queen’s Greatest Hits including We Will Rock You to We Are the Champions, Killer Queen, Don’t Stop Me Now, Somebody to Love, Another One Bites the Dust, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, Ra-
QUEEN ROCKS are performing live at The Drum Theatre Dandenong on Friday 22 March.
dio Ga Ga, I Want to Break Free, the unrivalled epic that is Bohemian Rhapsody and many more iconic hits across their two hour live show. “We can’t wait to ROCK YOU in Dande-
nong.” said Jason. “Come along with your dancing shoes, your best sing-along voices and be prepared to enjoy a musical extravaganza like no other!”
QUEEN ROCKS are appearing at The Drum
Theatre in Dandenong on Friday 22 March at 8:00pm. Tickets are available now – go to www. queenrocks.com.au, The Drum Theatre website, or call the theatre box office on 03 8571 1666.
Three full-patched members of the Finks outlaw motorcycle gang have avoided jail over the extortion and robbery of a member wishing to leave the outfit.
Michael Bacalja, 43, of Berwick, Andrew Tonkin, 32, of Keysborough, and Allan Campbell, 30, of Endeavour Hills, pleaded guilty after sentence indications at theVictorian County Court.
Sentencing was deferred for Paul “Romeo” Draper, 40, of Endeavour Hills due to him being booked in for surgery.
Bacalja pleaded guilty to extortion with a threat to inflict injury and being a prohibited person with an imitation gun.
Tonkin and Campbell pled to robbery and common law assault.
The victim had been a fully-patched Finks member and treasurer based at the Cranbourne West club house.
Draper, Tonkin and Campbell barged their way into the victim’s house in Doncaster in July 2021, with Draper demanding the victim’s $60,000 2019 Harley Davidson while he was deciding whether to leave the club.
The victim pleaded for them not to take his bike and Draper assaulted him.
Campbell warned the victim that“if you call the cops, we’ll shoot you” and ordered the victim to write a note authorising the hand-over of his bike to Draper.
The victim complied and the men rode away with his bike.
A week later, after pleading for his bike’s return, the victim was told to go to Draper’s home in Endeavour Hills.
While waiting outside in his car, Bacalja approached with VicRoads transfer papers in hand.
Inside the house, Draper told the victim that he’d have to pay $15,000 and forfeit his bike to leave the Finks.
If he didn’t sign over the bike, he would be “f***ed”, Draper told him – and the victim duly signed the transfer papers.
When he left, Draper phoned him to say he’d signed the wrong part of the form. If he didn’t come back inside, he’d be “really f***ed”.
An angry Draper punched kicked and kneed him in what the victim said was a “really savage” beating. He was left with red marks, a sore jaw and head for days.
Over several weeks, the victim transferred $11,500 to Draper’s bank account, spurred by several demands from Draper via calls on encrypted app Signal.
In October, Echo Taskforce police raided the accused’s homes as well as the Cranbourne West clubhouse.
At Draper’s home, they seized the bike’s keys and registration plate as well as several steroids.
They seized a gel-blaster gun from the home of Bacalja, who was prohibited to possess an imitation gun.
Bacalja told police that he didn’t realise the gun was illegal. He’d bought it as a toy online, used only in the backyard and not for any other purposes, he said.
The victim declined to make a victim impact statement.
Sentencing judge Sarah Leighfield said Draper – highly ranked as a ‘Nomad’ at the Finks – was the “principal offender” in the robbery of the bike as well as in extorting the victim.
Tonkin and Campbell had lesser roles in the robbery and Bacalja a limited role in the extor-
tion, she said.
Leighfield noted Tonkin and Bacalja had shown remorse and taken full responsibility for their conduct.
Campbell sought to minimalise his actions but considered the treatment inflicted on the victim was undeserved and unjustified, she said.
He’d also paid $10,000 in order to leave the Finks.
Campbell had been dismissed from his trucking job as a result of the charges.
He had no criminal history, but for a fine for wearing a Finks T-shirt in public.
At the time of the offences, he was abusing drugs and alcohol. His severe borderline personality disorder was also noted.
Since moving in with his partner – a kindergarten teacher – Campbell had been sober, cut off ties with negative peers and complied with bail conditions.
Bacalja, a former Navy seaman and miner, had limited criminal history including assault, threats to kill and firearm offences.
He’d been in the Finks only a few months at
the time of offending. Though still a member, he had since stepped down as vice-president. He’d not re-offended since.
Tonkin, a bouncer and former marital arts instructor, had no priors and had become a dedicated charity volunteer.
The prosecution submitted for Draper and Bacalja to be jailed, and Campbell and Tonkin given jail and a community corrections order (CCO).
Leighfield said despite the offences being serious, each would receive a CCO – taking into account their mental health issues and signs of rehabilitation.
Campbell’s 30-month CCO included up to 320 hours of unpaid work, supervision and drug, alcohol and mental health treatment.
Bacalja’s CCO of 27 months included up to 280 hours of unpaid work, supervision and treatment. He was ordered not to associate with the Finks for nine months.
Tonkin was sentenced to a 21-month CCO including up to 150 hours of unpaid work and mental health treatment.
Draper was scheduled to be sentenced on 10 April.
A young Afghan refugee who was a leading academic in his homeland is now supporting newly arrived refugees in Melbourne’s south east.
Muqtader Yousafzai arrived in Melbourne in May 2023 and was reunited with his mother and one brother.
He is now working as acting case manager with migrant and refugee settlement agency AMES Australia.
“I’ve been working with AMES for three months and I’m enjoying the work. It’s rewarding to be supporting people who are also arriving as refugees,” Muqtader said.
“The team and all of my colleagues are awesome.”
Muqtader was the youngest Afghan to be awarded a full scholarship to study for a PhD. In 2020, he travelled to India to take up his doctoral studies in business administration.
But when, in October 2021, Kabul fell to the Taliban and the Afghan government collapsed, his future seemed uncertain.
The collapse of Afghanistan meant Muqtader’s mother and brother were forced to flee their homeland.
And he soon realised that because he had previously worked in a senior role in Afghanistan’s interior ministry, it meant he also could not return to Afghanistan.
“I had worked as aVIP member of the government. It was my job to work closely with the government VIPs. Before starting work as a VIP member, I was working as policy and strategy advisor to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Afghanistan,” Muqtader said.
“Meanwhile, I was also a university lecturer and have three years of experience in this field. I was teaching business subjects in both Master’s and Bachelor’s degree courses.”
He was interviewed on TV about economic issues more than 30 times as well as being a guest lecturer.
“My mother was also a senior official in the Ministry of Defence and our family was
well known in Afghanistan.
“This meant we could not return home to Afghanistan as we would have been targets of the Taliban.”
Fortunately, Muqtader has been able to continue with his studies and complete his PhD at Lucknow University.
“I have published research papers related to business administration in international
journals,” he said
A few days after the fall of Kabul, Muqtader’s mother was able to get on a flight to leave Afghanistan safely.
“She went to Europe and then came to Australia on a humanitarian visa,” he said.
Muqtader is keen to return to academia.
“In India, when I was studying, I was also teaching business administration. Academia was my comfort zone,” he said.
Muqtader says he wants to be a role model and represent Australia in different areas.
“This country is full of opportunities and he wants to make a contribution.
“For now I am focusing on my role with AMES and I would like to progress in the settlement and humanitarian sector. But I would like to do both academia and work for society.”
Muqtader says he and his family are happy with their new lives in Australia.
“Life is good for us. We are doing well and we are very happy to be in Australia,” he said.
Muqtader also thanked Australia for providing the opportunity to come here.
“Australia was my favourite country as a kid. I always thought that if I was to leave Afghanistan I would want to go to Australia. It was my childhood dream.
“I’ve been a cricket and sports fan since I was four-years-old and I always liked the Australian team. I could name the entire squad.”
Muqtader still plays cricket and soccer with friends in pick-up games.
The Preps at Timbarra P-9 College loved their first few days of Prep!
The students have been enjoying engaging in our Language Experiences for Reading and Writing.
When learning about the letter 'G', they made some glittery, green glasses! For the letter 'B', the Prep students and their favourite teddy bears participated in a bear hunt, followed by a teddy bear picnic. They also got to play on the brand-new playground! What a start to the year it has been.
We are all very proud of our Prep students and can't wait to see what they can achieve this year.
In an era where mental health struggles and disabilities often go unnoticed, Seachange Care Support Services stands as a beacon of hope and assistance.
Established in 2018 by the compassionate visionary Jismon, our organization has dedicated the past five years to providing essential aid to individuals navigating through life’s toughest challenges.
At Seachange, our mission transcends mere service provision; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.
We specialize in delivering outreach support to individuals grappling with disabilities and various mental health conditions, fostering independence and resilience along their journey.
Jismon, our founder, brings not only 14 years of industry experience but also an unwavering passion for helping others.
Having begun his career as a social worker, his transition to entrepreneurship stemmed from a deep-rooted commitment to addressing unmet needs in the community.
Our comprehensive suite of services caters to diverse needs, ranging from mental health support and supported independent living to recovery coaching and education/training assistance.
Whether it’s aiding with daily tasks, facilitating social participation, or ensuring roundthe-clock home care, Seachange remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
With local support available on a full-time, part-time, or as-needed basis, we strive to be more than just a service provider—we are a trusted partner in each individual’s journey towards holistic well-being.
Together, let’s continue to create positive change and foster a more inclusive and supportive society.
When
with a disability, start your sentence with ‘a person...’ so as to not define them by their disability.
As our society progresses into a more inclusive and welcoming environment, it is important that we make a conscious effort to ensure the language we use towards others is appropriate. Rather than relating to concepts such as profanities, this is in reference to the way we address or describe people with disabilities.
Like fashion crazes, music styles and interior design trends, language tends to change and update with time. New words and phrases are introduced into our vocabularies to reflect the times we live in.
Terms like ‘handicapped,’ ‘physically challenged’ and ‘wheelchair-bound’ are heading away from being the accepted way to refer to people who have a disability, while the use of phrases like ‘suffering from’ or ‘afflicted with’ are generally deemed offensive in today’s language.
Avoid the use of words and phrases such as crippled, a victim of, unfortunate, suffering from, incapacitated or worse, words that have evolved from historically medical terms to become hurtful slurs. Using the word ‘normal’ is also, depending on context, one that should generally be avoided when referring to people with a disability.
Using proper terminology is empowering, while outdated terminology is hurtful and offensive.
Instead of defining someone by an impairment or disability they may have, try to first recognise that they are a person above
all else. They are not disabled, they have a disability - in the same way that someone is not brown hair, but rather they have brown hair.
Instead of saying ‘a blind person’ or ‘a quadriplegic’, perhaps consider rephrasing to ‘a person who is blind or has a vision impairment,or‘apersonthathasquadriplegia.’
Similarly, this concept also applies to medical conditions such as asthma and cancerinstead of ‘she suffers from asthma,’ instead use ‘she has asthma.’ Rather than ‘a cancer patient,’ use ‘a person with cancer.’
It is in this way that we are not defining someone by any disability that they may have, but rather recognising that it is simply a feature of who they are.
One of the best ways to address or refer to people with a disability is to start with ‘a person,’ as you are affirming their humanity first and foremost. You can then go on to say ‘...that uses a wheelchair,’ ‘...with a hearing impairment,’ or whatever their disability may be.
Language and terminology will continually evolve, as do all other aspects of our society, and is something that we all have a duty to remain aware of. It is important to take note of the terms that the person with the disability uses to describe or refer to themselves, and then use those terms accordingly. It all comes down to each person’s own preference and we should respect everyone’s preferred way of self-identification.
We invite you to visit any of our centres at The Bridge and experience the excellence that defines us. Expect nothing less than exceptional service and a friendly atmosphere that feels like home.
We now have increased capacity, and we are currently taking new enquiries. Get in touch today!
Celebrated on Friday 8 March, the centre held activities focused on arts and crafts, with educational workshops aiming at providing resources and opportunities to advocate for an inclusive community.
One of the centre’s playgroup mums who attended the event, Maure, said that “where there is woman, there is magic”.
Residents were invited to write down on a heart-shaped piece of paper what made them feel included, which was then displayed to form a collection of letters on one of the centre’s walls.
The event began at 10.30am and finished at 12.30pm, with morning tea provided for those who attended.
Every day should be International Women’s Day.
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre has strived to live up to the maxim as the centre held a four-day celebration from 4 to 7 March, recognising and appreciating the diverse women within the community circle.
The first day of the celebration marathon saw City of Casey early childhood educator Paru Ramesh share her stories of hard work and success with the English students in the centre.
She engaged the students in a brief discussion about career and personal goals. The students wrote and shared their own stories and neatly presented them in a folder.
A seekh kebab barbecue united the students on the second day as they shared their traditional recipes and cooked up a storm.
Initially inspired by Casey Connect & Learn, the Wednesday crochet group, students, staff, and volunteers put on their ‘creative hats’ and produced beautiful works of art on the third day of the celebration. Felt flowers, crochet hearts, decorated personalised quotes, and other creative pieces adorned the ArtWall.
The celebrations were summed up with the grand opening of the Art Wall by Holt MP Cassandra Fernando on the last day.
A centre spokesperson said Merinda Park continued to contribute to the ongoing efforts of promoting equality, empowerment, and inclusivity among women within society, beyond just a single day.
“Our deepest gratitude to all who participated in the events, especially our wonderful students and staff,” she said.
Doveton resident Ederlynn Carkeek has been acknowledged by Monash Health for her 15 years of invaluable volunteering at Dandenong Hospital.
The soon-to-be 68-year-old started around 2008 after her daughter went to high school.
Three days a week, she does everything she can to bring her passions to the wards and brighten patients’ stays.
A woman of many talents, she often brings flowers from her garden or sings hymns from her local choir to comfort patients.
If she knows a patient’s birthday is coming up, she will arrive on the ward with a balloon and a handwritten card to celebrate.
She also mentors young volunteers at the hospital, showing them where to go and what to do.
For Ederlynn, her decision to devote herself to the hospital has been a way to give back.
She gave birth to her children at the Dandenong Hospital and received massive help when she lost several of them.
“That’s why there’s a lot of memories in that hospital for me,” she said.
“But because the staff, doctors, and nurses were so kind and helpful to my family at that time, I’m happy to give back that kindness through volunteering.”
Ederlynn said her favourite part of the volunteering was to engage with the patients.
“Just give them a smile or ask how’s their day because you don’t know what’s happening in the hospital,” she said.
“Many patients have families, but they just have no time to see them. So just being there for them for 10 or 15 minutes would make a difference.”
Volunteer coordinator Vicky Vasilopoulos said she felt grateful to have Ederlynn as a part of the longest-standing volunteers at Dande-
nong Hospital and she was very proud of all of her accomplishments over the years.
“She is always willing to help out wherever may be required. Her down-to-earth personality makes her approachable, easy to talk to, and a great mentor to all volunteers,” she said.
“Ederlynn buddies up to mentor most of the student volunteers on their first shift, and I am constantly receiving positive feedback from them.
“She embraces them like her own children and is passionate about passing on her life skills to them.”
When volunteer Kaif Mohammed Qais first arrived at Dandenong Hospital, Ederlyn took him under her wing.
“As a young man right out of high school, I felt very nervous going into my role as a ward ambassador, I felt like I’d have a tough time
talking with patients given the generational gap,” Kaif said.
“Luckily Ederlynn was there to help. Not only was she able to help me connect with patients on a deeper level, but she showed me how enjoyable my role could be in chatting with and brightening up the lives of so many patients.
“Ederlynn is a very loving and compassionate mentor, and I’m so grateful that she’s always been there to guide me as a volunteer.”
Monash Health and the Dandenong Hospital family thanked Ederlynn for her years of service and for making such a positive difference in the lives of others.
For those wanting to give back to their community like Ederlynn, Monash Health has opportunities for volunteers to get involved. To learn more, please visit monashhealth.org/ careers/volunteer
A Cranbourne East boy was among the additional four children arrested on the morning of Friday 8 March, as part of a police investigation into a number of incidents linked to the ongoing tobacco dispute.
Warrants were executed simultaneously at five residential addresses in Springvale, Princess Hill, Cranbourne East, Brighton East, and Preston at about 7am.
Four boys were arrested and set to be interviewed by police. They included a 16-year-old Springvale boy, a 14-year-old Princess Hill boy, a 17-year-old Cranbourne East boy, and a 16-year-old Preston boy.
Investigators said they would interview the four boys in relation to an aggravated burglary in Wonga Park, as well as two arson attacks at a Mill Park restaurant and a tobacconist in Ballarat in February.
A white Isuzu D Max and a silver Ford Ranger were stolen during an aggravated burglary in Wonga Park between 10pm on Monday 19 February and 7am on Tuesday 20 February.
The Ford Ranger was then utilised in an arson attack at a reception centre in Thomastown on Thursday 22 February.
It was later located burnt out in Bundoora. A 20-year-old St Albans man was charged on Thursday 29 February in relation to that incident.
On Tuesday 27 February at about 3.40am, the Isuzu D Max was involved in an attempted arson at a Mill Park restaurant on The Link.
The D Max reversed towards the front door of the premises and a number of offenders exited the vehicle, with one reaching back in to remove a jerry can.
A witness observed the vehicle and ran
towards the scene, causing the offenders to flee.
The same vehicle was then used the following day in an arson attack at a tobacconist on Sturt Street in Ballarat at about 3.35am.
The store was significantly damaged during the incident.
A short time later, the vehicle was located burnt out on Eureka Street.
A second vehicle, a stolen BMW X1 bearing stolen plates was captured on CCTV in a convoy with the Isuzu.
The BMW was seized from a Springvale address during last week’s warrants.
Four children, including a 15-year-old Springvale boy, a 14-year-old Mulgrave boy, a 16-year-old Mulgrave girl, and a 16-yearold Pakenham girl, were charged on Friday 1 March as part of the investigation into the incidents.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information on any organised crime activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au
Cranbourne North’s Tulliallan Primary School welcomed a very special guest to award their 2024 leadership team their badges on Monday.
Ian Burridge, regional director of SouthEastern Victoria Region at the Department of Education and Training, attended the primary school’s assembly which acknowledged the leadership positions for 2024.
Even with a moon boot on, Ian delivered a speech to the students and their parents discussing his own expertise in positions of leadership before presenting the badges to the new young leaders of TPS.
The following students were appointed:
· Digital Technologies captains - James and Kirat.
· Green Team - Shraddha, Arshia, Deana and Sayuni.
· Music - Ruby and Abhilesh.
· Art - Tabitha and Marwa.
· STEM - Minoli and Esandu.
· Mandarin - Ashlesha and Marco.
House Captains
· Elder - Walter and Isabel.
· Mitchell - Noah and Abbigail.
· Rossiter - Toby and Navya.
· Strettle - Caidyn and Saba.
Three youths arrested in Cranbourne West
Police have arrested three people after they allegedly evaded police in Cranbourne West on the morning of Wednesday 6 March.
It is understood police initially observed the allegedly stolen vehicle on Flicka Boulevard at about 11.45pm on 5 March.
The vehicle was then followed by Air Wing as it travelled through the Casey Fields area.
Stop sticks were successfully deployed on Berwick Cranbourne Road a short time later.
The three occupants eventually exited the vehicle where they were swiftly arrested by responding officers with the assistance of Air Wing and Dog Squad.
A 21-year-old Pakenham woman, a 19-yearold Cranbourne man, and a 20-year-old Corio man were assisting police with their inquiries, police said.
Investigators believe the vehicle may have collided with other vehicles in the area and they are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, with dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au
Man dies after ute fall
A 20-year-old man who fell from the back of a ute in Dandenong on Saturday 2 March has died in hospital.
Police say the Cranbourne man fell while the white Ford Falcon ute was moving in a McCrae Street car park about 6.20pm.
He was taken to hospital where he died on the night of Tuesday 5 March.
The day before, Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives arrested three men.
A 19-year-old Cranbourne East man was charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury.
He was expected to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 6 March.
A 19-year-old Hallam man and a 19-yearold Dandenong man were interviewed by police and released pending further enquiries. Small grass fire
CFA responded to a small grass and scrub fire at Clyde-Five Ways Road at around 9.21pm on Monday 11 March.
Ten units responded from Devon,Tooradin, Clyde, Cranbourne, and Narre Warren.
The incident involved a fire through bushes which was not permitted during the Fire Danger Period.
Victoria Police was also called to the scene for traffic management.
The incident was deemed under control at 9.51pm and declared safe 10.11pm.
For more information about regulations during FDP please refer to CFA’s Can I, Can’t I? at cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/firebans-ratings-and-restrictions/can-i-or-cant-i Hit parked cars
Police were called to a three-vehicle collision in Officer which caused a path of destruction.
A 4.5 tonne truck is alleged to have collided with two parked cars and uprooted a large tree on Dahl Drive around 10.30pm on Sunday 10 March.
Police say the driver, a 29-year-old man, provided an evidentiary breath test of 0.157. He was also found to be unlicensed, police say.
Police additionally established the two parked vehicles that were damaged were owned by friends of the truck driver and he was on his way to visit them.
The Officer man was set to be charged on summons with exceeding the prescribed concentration of alcohol, driving under the influence of alcohol, driving in a manner dangerous, careless driving, and unlicensed driving.
He will appear in Dandenong Magistrates’ Court at a later date.
This forms part of Operation Arid, a statewide road policing operation aimed at reducing road trauma and lives lost on the roads over the Labour Day long weekend. It ran from 12.01.am Friday 8 March to 11.59pm on Monday 11 March.
Rattan is having its moment in the design sun as this natural material appears in homes as furniture, baskets, bed heads, lamps and other home accessories.
Traditionally used to construct outdoor furniture because of its durability and weather resistance, rattan is also a great material to use indoors as a way of bringing an elegant natural feel to interior spaces.
The natural beauty of rattan complements many decorating styles such as country, coastal, boho and traditional decor. It can be easily incorporated with other materials, such as glass, stone or wood, or it can be painted to give it a more contemporary feel.
Another advantage of rattan is that it is less expensive than other materials, making it perfect for those who are budget-conscious but want an eye-catching end result.
For an effortless casual feel, rattan is perfect for conjuring a sense of the coast and lazy summer holidays.
It can easily be accessorised with throw pillows, rugs, candles, lamp shades and wall hangings created from other natural fibres.
And don’t limit rattan to your living areas. Think of incorporating it into bedrooms via a rattan bedhead, side table or bedside lamp. A striking woven chair can look elegant in an empty bedroom corner. Rattan chairs can also be paired with a timber dining table for a comfortable yet chic look.
Rattan light fixtures can add a wow factor to otherwise standard lighting. Think large pen-
dant shades with an open weave to allow light to seep in all directions.
If you want to just dip your toe in this durable design trend start with a few baskets stra-
tegically placed where you need them. Rattan baskets are widely available at all price points from home decor retailers. A rattan tray is another way to add a touch of rattan to your
overall design scheme. Group candles, shells, interesting glassware or any other items you love on a rattan tray for a streamlined rather than messy presentation.
When it comes to styling, the hardworking parts of our homes often draw the short straw.
But if your heart sinks every time you look at the shabby shed at the bottom of your garden or your tatty-looking garage, don’t despair.
Transforming these eyesores into stylish, decorative features is easier, cheaper and more rewarding than you might think.
“It’s easy to get excited about sprucing up a living area or bedroom, but the practical parts of our home are no less deserving of attention,” Dulux colour expert Andrea Lucena-Orr says.
“What many people don’t realise is how big an impact they can have on your home’s overall look.
The garage, for example, can make up around 30 per cent of your home’s façadeif it’s not looking its best, that’s a whole lot of unattractive on display for the world to see.
“Equally, a shed that’s seen better days can really bring down the look of your garden. It’s details like these that friends and family as
well as potential buyers really notice.
“Rather than splashing out on expensive replacements, update what you’ve got with colour.
A lick of paint will transform unsightly sheds or garages.
It’s quicker and easier than you might expect too - just a few hours over a day or two and your dumping grounds will be transformed.“
For garage doors, the colour expert said it is important to pay attention to the colours and finishes of surrounding walls.
Matte black, charcoal, navy and stone can work well against red brick, natural stone and timber.
For an exposed area such as the garage or shed, it’s crucial to choose a paint that can withstand the elements.
Dulux Weathershield is weather-resistant and provides a tough, long-lasting finish.
It’s easy to apply, mould, dirt-and stainresistant, and can be used on anything from bricks, timber and aluminium to ironwork - generally without the need for a primer.
DIY STEPS
1. Gather your painting supplies and ensure the surface has been properly prepared (sanded and washed) prior to starting to paint. Follow the label on the Dulux Weathershield can for more information.
2. Once the surface is dry, apply Dulux Weathershield to the surface using long brush strokes, starting with the inner panels and working your way out.
3. Smooth over the wet painted section with long brush strokes. Do not reload the brush when you do this, a few strokes should be enough to smooth the surface.
4. Repeat this process for the second coat. Allow to dry, then give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper and repeat for a second coat.
5. If painting bare timber a third coat will need to be applied.
1. Gather your painting supplies and ensure the surface has been properly prepared (sanded and washed) prior to starting to paint. Follow the label on the Dulux Weathershield can for more information.
2. Once the surface is dry, start by cutting in around the edges and hard to reach areas using Dulux Weathershield.
3. Apply paint to the surface using short, horizontal brush strokes.
4. Smooth over the wet painted section with long brush strokes. Do not reload the brush when you do this, a few strokes should be enough to smooth the surface.
5. Repeat this process for the second coat. Allow to dry, then give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper and repeat for a second coat
6. If painting bare timber a third coat will need to be applied.
Black Cherry was crowned the best tasting heirloom tomato in Australia recently by a panel of gardening superstars and food experts at Heronswood House and Gardens, the home of the Diggers Foundation on the Mornington Peninsula.
The well known heirloom variety - Black Cherry - was a stand out for the official taste test panel who were brought together to taste and rate the best heirloom tomatoes in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the first Diggers Great Tomato Taste Test.
Blayne Bertoncello from O.MY Restaurant in Beaconsfield (Good Food Guide Best Restaurant of the Year 2024) joined this year’s official taste test panel, alongside gardening royalty Jane Edmanson and Costa Georgiadis, acclaimed organic gardener Phil Dudman, author of Preserving the Italian Way Pietro Demaio, VicHealth CEO Sandro Demaio, and three of the participants in the very first Diggers tomato taste test in 1993 - garden writer Peter de Waart and co-founders of the Diggers Club and Foundation Penny Blazey and Clive Blazey.
Diggers Club and Foundation CEO Tim Sansom said that over 65 heirloom tomato varieties had been grown in preparation for the event, before the top varieties in three categories (beefsteak and saucing, cherry, and salad) were selected for the panel to taste and rate. However, one variety almost didn’t make it onto the judges’ tasting plates - Nonna Peppina’s - which came to Diggers last year from one of its members - Ken Carr in Annangrove (about 25km from the centre of Sydney).
The Diggers Club has almost 80,000 members throughout Australia and Ken Carr, aged 66, was one of them who put his hand up to not only take part in seed trials in August 2023, but to also donate a tomato seed line that his family had been growing for generations.
“I’ve been growing tomatoes since I was three and am amazed at the varieties I still don’t know about,” Mr Carr said.
“Each year, I try a range of varieties from every colour and shape of cherry tomatoes to my largest...Nonna Peppina’s...she was the one who provided the original [seeds]...unfortunately smuggled into Australia in 1946 stitched into her bra strap.”
When informed about Nonna Peppina’s being named the best Beefsteak and Saucing tomato, Ken said: “I’m pleased everyone likes them as much as I do. They are nice just chopped up and pan fried still keeping them solid, add a leaf of two of basil and pile on toast.”
Diggers Club & Foundation CEO Tim Sansom said that the official taste test panel rated
Now we are in our autumn months you may notice that your outdoor area is looking a little worse for wear. Perhaps the deck is a bit dull or your paved entertaining area is a bit shabby - now is the time to get on top of refreshing these outdoor areas.
Refresh paved areas
Visit your local hardware store and find a paver or concrete cleaner suitable for your pavers at home. You can use a brush and a bit of elbow grease, but for best results a pressure cleaner should be used to blast away dirt, mould, grime and other nasties.
Pick the first of a few sunny days to clean your pavers and then let them dry for a day or two. You can also purchase paints or sealants for your pavers to keep their colour vibrant and clean, and extend the longevity of the outdoor area. Refilling gravel or sand in between pavers or around your entertaining area will also keep it looking polished and fresh.
Stain or paint your deck
If your deck and railings are looking a bit dull or shabby, you may need to recoat them with either a stain or paint. When deciding on the colour and finish, it is important to consider the products previously used on the timber. Oil-based stains will sink into the timber and fade away with time, as opposed to acrylic or water-based stains that sit on the surface and peel or flake away.
Preparation is key when re-staining or painting a deck - the surface must be clean and stripped back of any previous product or dirt to ensure a pristine, lasting finish. Scrub or pressure clean your deck, or use a timber stripper to remove past products. The type of stain you use will determine the application method, but your local hardware experts will be able to advise you on the tools and techniques required to get your desired result.
heirloom varieties of tomatoes for their taste, texture and appearance.
“The best tasting tomatoes are often the smallest and Black Cherry was a standout in the Cherry Tomato category. They are highly productive, easy to grow and work in salads, lunch boxes and as garden snacks straight from the vine in gardens around Australia,” Mr Sansom said.
“Sweet Cassidy was the winner of the Salad Tomato category - a mid-sized fruit that boasts the same sweetness of a cherry tomato. A new addition to our range and a discovery from our seed vault, we knew this tomato was something special.
“Nonna Peppina’s was the winner of our Beefsteak and Saucing Tomato category. Beefsteaks are the large meaty tomatoes that can be
sliced or used in sauces, while the saucing tomatoes offer more flesh and less seeds - which makes them incredibly versatile for cooking.”
Mr Sansom said that the taste test was as much about preserving the diversity of tomatoes as it was about crowning a winner.
“Nonna Peppina’s is such a great story and I’m sure there are other seed gems being passed down in families around Australia, but if we don’t take steps to preserve and share those seed lines, we’re in danger of losing them for future generations to enjoy.
“These heirloom varieties represent important cultural heritage,” Mr Sansom said.
“Everyone can play a role in preserving open-pollinated, heirloom seed varieties of vegetables, just by making more informed decisions about the seed we decide to plant in our gardens. It’s one of the ways we can keep control of what we grow and serve up on our plates - so those decisions remain in the hands of gardeners and not large corporations.
“The Diggers Foundation is preserving biocultural treasures like heirloom seeds to ensure they don’t disappear. By growing and saving seed of these precious heirlooms we can make sure that they will be accessible to future generations.”
Communities around the Hallam Road Landfill say they want green space rather than another residential development in the vicinity, as the Cranbourne Golf Course hits the market as a potential housing estate.
Located near the landfill, the 70-hectare course falls in the General Residential Zone and is said to “present a viable solution to assist the Victorian Government’s aim of providing 800,000 homes over the next 10 years”, according to a media release in February this year.
A for sale billboard outside of the course says the land has the potential to deliver between 1000 and 1300 residential dwellings, derisked from a zoning perspective.
Nearby resident Dr John Theodoridis said the community would want the course to be a reserve or just a green space.
“They’ve been promised green space countless times regarding the rehabilitation of the landfill,” he said. “It’s never been forthcoming.”
The call comes amid a proposed Buffer Area Overlay planning scheme amendment for the Hallam Road Landfill in Hampton Park.
But the issue of the amendment has been put on ice by the City of Casey until the EPA publishes its updated Separation Distance Guideline and Landfill Buffer Guideline.
The guidelines, which the council expects to be published sometime this year, could see the buffer for landfills accepting municipal putrescible waste with a tip face greater than 500 square metres increase from 500 metres to a maximum of 1500 metres. The distance may be varied to a minimum of 1000 metres if an odour risk assessment could show that an alternative buffer is acceptable.
This has led residents to question whether a larger buffer would encompass the Cran-
A for sale billboard outside of the course says the land has the potential to deliver between 1000 and 1300 residential dwellings, de-risked from a zoning perspective. 392859
zone had been established around the landfill, an overlay was just adding insult to injury.
But the answer is not clear until the City of Casey has the chance to read the updated guidelines, at which point council officers “would provide a further report to determine whether investigations should continue, and a Buffer Area Overlay Scheme amendment pursued”, according to a report published in February.
Cranbourne Country Club, which owns the golf course, was contacted for comment.
Lynbrook Residents Association spokespersonViv Paine said the overlay would negatively impact the properties enclosed.
“When a property in the buffer zone is offered for sale the Buffer Area Overlay must be
included in the Section 32 Vendor’s Statement prepared for prospective purchasers. Local estate agents predict properties thus encumbered will suffer a decline in value in the range of 10 to 20 per cent compared to nearby properties without an overlay,” he explained.
“Encumbered properties within the buffer zone are restricted from subdividing large blocks or constructing new buildings in the backyard such as a granny flat or even a shed.
“Renovations and extensions will encounter more building permit hurdles and cost more due to requirements for tight seals around windows and doors to prevent the ingress of toxic escaping gas.”
Dr Theodoridis said once the residential
“Not only do people have to pick up the torments of that landfill, but now they have to take a financial hit on their most significant asset,” he said.
“I think it’s atrocious, to be honest.”
He believed there should be a big billboard on each sale block to remind prospective buyers of the nearby landfill.
“It’s only effective if the public is being made aware of the thing. I’ve seen billboards up about local housing developments in that immediate area saying a last chance to invest in this, but there’s no sign saying, by the way, there’s a tip just 500 metres down the road, and it’s going to hit the price of your house,” he said.
“Unless there’s community education and potential buyer education, it does nothing.”
Communities around Stevensons Brothers Industries (SBI) landfill are expressing concern around the habitat loss of the local endangered species Southern Brown Bandicoot, as the latest report reveals the operator removed about half a hectare of native vegetation, allegedly without the authorised permits, during the past three years.
The Native Vegetation Removal Assessment, a submission to support the operator’s recent proposed planning permit amendments, was commissioned after Casey Council issued a breach notice of alleged unauthorised native vegetation removal in January 2023.
“Too much native vegetation has already been removed,” a resident wrote to the Casey Council in their lodged objections against the proposed permit amendments.
“I am also worried about the damage to native vegetation and the possible effect it will have on the endangered bandicoot population,” another resident objected.
The assessment found that the removal comprised 0.456 hectares of native vegetation in patches around the edges of the quarry, including seven large trees.
It identified ‘complete direct removal of canopy and understorey species’ due to unpermitted clearing and ‘partial native vegetation removal’ resulting from unauthorised bike tracks and rubbish and metal materials dumping.
The stormwater runoff, which carried sediment, was discovered to indirectly contribute to the death of native vegetation in several studied areas.
One of the areas worth noticing was the zone opposite the office near the site entrance where trucks and the road are washed down.
“Water runoff has been directed into adjacent native vegetation via a concrete gutter,” the assessment wrote.
“This area is now devoid of native vegetation due to inappropriate hydrology
are
and excess sediment.
“The only attempt to control sediment runoff is the presence of hay bales, however, these are not proving to be effective at trapping sediments in this location.”
Echoing the residents’ concerns, an updated fauna management plan to satisfy the proposed planning permit amendment noted that vegetation in the area met the habitat requirements for South Brown Bandicoot, a species listed as endangered under both the Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act).
Though the investigators did not catch the presence of the species during the survey pe-
riods, the plan assumed that the species were active on site given the presence of numerous sights within the adjoining Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne.
“If resident in the study area, this species would be susceptible to impacts involving the removal or modification of treed native vegetation, particularly those areas with dense lower understories,” the plan wrote.
The plan also stated that the lost vegetation due to allegedly unpermitted clearing could not be feasibly revegetated due to ‘past quarry activities and soil being too disturbed for planting to be successful’.
SBI was contacted for comment.
Blending the art of designers, performers, filmmakers and actors, Bunjil Place will be hosting Emergent 2023: Graduate Showcase throughout the months of March and April 2024.
As a celebration of the works and talent of young artists in the City of Casey, there will be three main events throughout the two months.
City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said that the Emergent programs give Casey Council and the community a chance to support the next generation of creative minds and to take part in their artistic journey.
“I encourage everyone to immerse themselves in Emergent 2023: Graduate Showcase and witness the incredible talent throwing in
Casey Festival of Colours
Live stage entertainment, jumping castle, Vedic Card Reading, face-painting, vegetarian and vegan food, lots of fun!
Global Party People DJ and Kirtaneers will be performing.
Free entry registration and pre-order (discounted price) colours at tinyurl.com/holi24vic
Collect the colours when you arrive at the functions. Alcohol is strictly prohibited at this event.
· Saturday 16 March 2024 11am to 4pm at the Akoonah Park Berwick.
2024 Parklea Pakenham Show -
Wheels on the Farm
Free entry to the show featuring rural excellence, marvellous art and craft displays, iconic events, and competitions, multi-cultural demonstrations along with new and returning attractions for people of all ages.
For more information, email pakenhamshow1@ bigpond.com
· Saturday 16 March, PB Ronald Reserve.
Together We Rise Party
To raise money for people impacted by substance use and mental health issues.
Music including Amapiano by Melbourne’s best DJs, delicious barbecue, stylish haircuts and fades, fun games, kids activities, motivational speakers, stall from various services.
Family-friendly event. Info: 0434 000 670.
Sunday 17 March, 15 Ercildoune Ct, Cranbourne West, 12pm
Mental Health Peer Support Program Cranbourne Group - Free
The program is based on a 12-step program of personal growth, mutual help, and support.
Participants share challenges and solutions in a supportive and structured peer-to-peer format within a confidential, caring, and sharing community.
· The meetings are weekly and go for about two hours. 10.30am to 12.30pm Thursday, excluding school holidays, 7/9 Selandra Boulevard (Balla Balla Community Centre), Clyde North.
For any enquires contact: Grow Victoria 03 9528 2977/1800 558 268.
Narre Warren Family History Group
The next Narre Warren Family History Group meeting will be held on Wednesday 20 March from 7.30pm at the Cranbourne Library conference
the City of Casey. “Head to Bunjil Place this March and April to be inspired and witness the future of art, design, performance and film unfold before your eyes,” Ms Duff said.
The first event will be an exhibition, running from Saturday 16 March until Sunday 7 April.
Featuring the works of 35 emerging artists, designers, photographers and filmmakers from Casey, themes such as mental health awareness and cultural identity will be on display for audiences to see.
The second event will be held for one day only on Sunday 17 March, where it will showcase the performances of VCE and VET dance,
room with entry via the Casey Radio entrance at 1/65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road in Cranbourne.
Heather Arnold: Enchanted Beneath the Bluff
Author Heather Arnold will be this month’s presenter, talking about her new book ’Enchanted Beneath the Bluff’, which tells the stories of some very interesting Melbourne women, who lived their lives on their own terms.
· Wednesday 20 March.
Cranbourne Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria Inc: Autumn
Plant Sale of Australian plants
Location: Royal Botanic Garden Victoria – Cranbourne (Cnr Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, Cranbourne)
The plant sale will be held at the northern end of the Australian Garden. Parking and entry is available nearby (look for the large red banners). A large variety of Australian native plants will be available. A plant list will be available on our website approximately a week before the sale. EFTPOS is available.
A great opportunity to purchase plants and look around the Australian Garden.
· Plant sale dates: Saturday and Sunday 23 and 24 March, 2024. Times: 10am – 4pm on both days.
Berwick Bridge Club
Are you looking for some exercise for your brain that is both fun and challenging?
Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members. Lessons are held at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House, 21A Bemersyde Drive, Berwick. The course will run for six-plus weeks on a Monday night.
· To reserve your spot phone Maree on 9702 2348.
Balla Balla Community Centre
Located in Clyde North, the centre has vacancies in the following classes: Introduction to Creative Writing, Conversational English, Yoga, Zumba, Playgroup, Balla Balla Bubs (0-12 months).
Morning Melodies is back! Share a morning of music, enjoy a cuppa, or scones with jam and cream, and make new friends along the way.
· Enrolments can be made online at ballaballa. com.au/programs or by phoning 5990 0900.
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club
Are you newly retired or new to the area or just wanting to enjoy your freedom or expand your so-
music and drama students in the Bunjil Place Theatre.
The final event will be a short film screening on Friday 5 April, where projects from VCE media students will be exhibiting their projects of heart-pounding horror, social commentary and everything in between.
All events feature free entry for audiences, but bookings are essential for the live performances and the film screening.
For more information on bookings and events, visit bunjilplace.com.au/news/emergent-2023-graduate-showcase
cial life?
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities such as weekly social/chat activities with low-key in line dancing if you want to tap your feet and enjoy an afternoon tea.
Day,short and long trips away via coach and flights, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly evening dineouts, weekly table tennis club, walking groups, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, and more.
· Come along and get to know us by visiting us on a Thursday at 2pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House or join us on a Wednesday at 10am for a Coffee at Little Sparrow Fountain Gate. For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.
Cranbourne U3A
Come along to Cranbourne U3A meet new friends and have fun doing interesting classes. We are a not-for-profit group for over 50 retired, or semiretired people. Our latest class will be Resin Craft, where we will be creating small items such as earrings, necklace pendants, coasters, and more. Great for small gifts for your friends. Come along and give it a try. Class materials will be provided for the first 4 weeks to give you an opportunity to try out a large variety of casts and molds. We have lots of samples to give you inspiration.
Our usual craft, music, chess, table tennis, and calligraphy classes are all open to new members.
Come along and give it a try. Our rooms are in the Cranbourne Library Admin building, enter from the Casey Radio entrance, next door to L’Arte Cafe. We are open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm.
· Our website is - u3acranbourne.org.au. Check it out for more information or come along and talk to one of our friendly members who will show you around.
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre
Located in Cranbourne North, it has vacancies in the following classes, learn to speak, read, and write in English - all levels, Monday to Thursday; Early Childhood Education classes - four hours on a Friday, government-funded, great to do before enrolling in a Certificate class; Computer classes every Wednesday morning and afternoon and in Hazaragi Wednesday evenings; Crochet and chat every Wednesday morning with a crochet teacher for free.
· Enrol now for our funded three and four-yearold Kinder Program with sessions up to five
days a week. 9.30am to 2.30pm every day with structured play.
Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair?
Join the Berwick Activities Group for some seated movement sessions including fun and uplifting songs and different styles and eras of music. An opportunity to get moving and enjoy the company of others.
Timbarra Community Centre, 20-26 Parkhill Drive, Timbarra Way, Berwick. $8 per session.
Contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863.
· Wednesdays from 10.45am to 11.30am.
Craft Classes
Do you enjoy craft making?
Join Berwick Activities Group’s Elizabeth to discover the world of papercraft and have a chat with like minded people.
You will be introduced to a range of papercraft techniques through a new project each week. Casual attendance is welcome.
Timbarra Community Centre 20-26 Parkhill Drive, Timbarra Way, Berwick
$5 per class, all materials supplied. Contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863.
· Tuesdays from 10am to noon.
Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not for profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students.
The club currently supports seven students of varying ages with their education expenses and are about to take on an eighth student. Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.
The club is always looking for new members in all age groups.
For more information, contact Shirley on 0419 878 481 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com
· The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.30am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker.
The Federation University community came together last week to hear from two key women within the local healthcare system, as part of the university’s International Women’s Day event.
Federation University Australia partnerships and growth associate director Mikaela Power led the panel on Wednesday 6 March, which consisted of St John of God Berwick Hospital and south east Melbourne hospital general manager Lisa Norman and St John of God Berwick Hospital obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Sugandha Kumar.
Ms Power recalled her experiences growing up on a farm as a girl but never feeling defined by her gender.
“Whether you’re a boy or a girl, everybody had a go,” she said.
Ms Power also recalled how empowering it was to have her daughter’s friends be excited for her when she became the mayor at Baw Baw Council in 2018.
“You have to see it to be it.”
Ms Norman said her mother who was working in the accounts department earned less than her father who was a mailboy within the same company.
“The best way to think about the future is to look backwards,” she said.
“In this contemporary world, that seems outrageous.
“That’s how far we’ve come.”
Ms Norman also remembered how her father questioned paying for her to go to private school despite agreeing to pay for her older brother’s private schooling without a second thought.
“Now, I’m running three hospitals,” she said.
“Do what you love and you’ll never see it as work.”
Ms Norman said St John of God was among
health organisations leading the way in reflecting the number of women in healthcare, with women making up nine out of the 11 executive positions.
“Female doctors in the early 90s were rare,” she said.
“They had to be tough, they were breaking ground.
“To survive, we had to be tough.
“We are now free to be who we are as women in healthcare.”
Ms Norman said she was proud to carry on the legacy of the Sisters of St John of God, who founded the healthcare service more than 30 years ago.
“They challenged the status quo and found a way,” she said.
“Men have to adapt to the changing expectations.
“Everyone has to be open to the mystery of giving something up.”
Dr Sugandha said the progress of women throughout history was the result of hard work, hardship and suffering.
“This has not been given as a gift to us,” she said.
“It’s very easy to take our achievements for granted.”
Dr Sugandha said while there had been a number of steps taken in terms of reducing discrimination against women, she had experienced prejudice often, including patients believing that she would not be carrying out their surgery.
“It did happen and it has stayed with me,” she said.
Dr Sugandha said she also experienced pressure from her grandfather to not have a child so as to not jeopardise her career.
“I actively sought mentors to get back into obstetrics,” she said.
“I’m very happy to look at what has been achieved.”
The event also included a Q&A session, with questions including their experiences with the prevalence of family violence in Casey.
Ms Norman said she saw a case every week with a patient coming into the hospital system in crisis.
“Women are more prepared to talk about it,” she said.
“Domestic violence is not something that only happens in low socioeconomic environments.”
International Women’s Day 2024 was celebrated by 137 VIEW Club women and 17 South East clubs at the Dandenong Club on Friday 8 March - the first gathering of the clubs since the Covid pandemic.
Women attending were from throughout the South East and from as far as Bairnsdale. VIEW Clubs are valued members of The Smith Family, with approximately 14,000 members in 283 clubs across Australia.
After a Welcome to Country, Anton Leschen, general manager Victoria for The Smith Family, reviewed how VIEW Club women support The Smith Family Learning For Life (LFL) students throughout the country, sponsoring over 1700 students with donations of $133.5 million annually and growing.
In 2023, 62,822 LFL students received support for books, uniforms, excursions and other learning programs such as reading and study skills.
The Smith Family’s goal is to double that number of sponsored students in the next five years.
A Learning for Life student alumni spoke about his experience in the program, improving his reading skills during prep, advancing in maths and other areas in secondary school, and now pursuing a degree in aeronautical science, maths and commerce at Monash University.
Talented members of the Bairnsdale VIEW Club entertained with several songs celebrating women, ending with a community sing of “I Am Woman”.
The final speaker, Susan Bower, inspired attendees with her views on the importance of women in our country and sharing her life story.
Susan eventually reached her writing goals, despite road blocks during her early lifewhentheonlyoptionsavailabletowomen were essentially nursing and teaching -
training as a nurse, becoming the youngest and first-ever married charge nurse at the Alfred Hospital, delivering babies and seeing out the dying, surviving a broken family, single motherhood, and eventually finding her way to television as creative producer, writing some of the best known Australian television drama series including A Country Practice, Neighbours, McCloud’s Daughters, All Saints, and A Place Called Home.
‘Retired’ from official writing and producing, Susan is now teaching Writing a TV Series at the Australian Film, Television and Radio School, mentoring new story tellers, sharing her knowledge and experience with the next generations.
To learn more about VIEW Clubs, visit thesmithfamily.com.au/view
Akoonah Park looked magnificent for the annual Berwick Open Horse Event held on Monday 11 March.
With an array of competitors and their wellpresented horses, talented judges and a small but hard-working band of committee and volunteers the day was regarded as a success.
Sharon Geoffrey, Berwick Show Horse chairperson, commented “We are thankful to the many competitors who embraced our decision to start an hour earlier than normal. We couldn’t have asked for better weather for the start of the day, allowing us to finish before lunchtime.”
Throughout the event, Ring announcer
Debbie Akister thanked the sponsors, Decron Horse Care, Alex Scott and staff and Airepair Air Conditioning Services. “With the generosity of the sponsors we can continue to hold events like today and we encourage everyone to thank and support them whenever you can.”
Supreme Ridden Pony, sponsored by Decron Horse Care was won by D. Plumb with DP Victoria Street.
Supreme Ridden Galloway, sponsored by Alex Scott & Staff, was won by D. Plumb with DP Royal Ascot.
Supreme Ridden Hack, sponsored by Airepair Air Conditioning Services, was won by D. Plumb with DP Florentine.
As a business leader, is it possible to motivate your staff or can personal motivation only come from within? There are a range of views on this and it correlates with other similar such questions such as can other people make you happy or are we each responsible for our own happiness? Similarly, can we inspire ourselves or can we only be inspired by others? Whatever the answers to these questions, it is definitely true that leaders can significantly influence the motivation of team members, afterall it is rightly said that staff don’t leave companies, they leave people.
Being motivated just feels great. It gives us purpose, a reason to go above and beyond and the opportunity to achieve things that others may see as extremely difficult or perhaps even impossible. A highly motivated team is typically a high-performance team and you know it when you are part of it for there is no feeling quite like it. There is a completely natural sense of camaraderie and support, time passes without you being conscious of it and results come much more easily, almost effortlessly.Watch some of the great AFL teams over the past few years (Collingwood, Richmond and Geelong for example) and you will see this play out on the footy field itself. It often seems like they have more players than their opposition and there is a high level of self-confidence in their ability to win.
When it comes to motivation, the first thing that any leader needs to recognise is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach as
everyone is motivated by different things and to different degrees. For some it is about winning, status, recognition whereas others may be more motivated altruistic outcomes such as the opportunity to give back to the community or to help other people less fortunate than themselves. Fundamentally, personal motivations are aligned with an individual’s
personal core values so if a leader can identify these, the potential to motivate that individual is significantly increased.
While recognition of a person’s core values is clearly important, it is also necessary to understand where someone sits relative to required skills and experience in their role. For those people with low skills and/or ex-
perience (e.g. those new to a particular job), often they will be motivated by the opportunity to achieve at the tasks they have been set and to learn more so that they can become a more effective and valuable member of the business. This implies that appointment of a Mentor, investment in training and/or a gradual increase in responsibility may well be factors that will have a positive influence on their personal motivation.
For those staff members that have high skill and/or significant experience, a typically different approach is required. For these staff members, training in their role is unlikely to be required but further personal development in an adjacent area may well be welcomed. It is not unusual for some senior staff to become demotivated over time (perhaps by having done the same role for many years), so when a senior member of staff has lost their mojo, a personalised, individual method is required to find out what lies behind this. These staff members may be motivated by a new challenge, the opportunity to make a significant difference or perhaps a better work/ life balance.
Dealing with people that have become demotivated requires careful handling since factors that influence this may not necessarily be work-related. If an individual is having problems outside of work, then this could well have a direct bearing on not only their performance but how they feel about work in general. While it is clearly not the role of the leader to resolve a staff member’s personal problems, showing patience and offering a listening ear can go a long way to helping the person get back on track.
Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au
The increased scrutiny and attention on concussion and head injuries in football has seen the AFL introduce a mandatory minimum 21day return-to-play protocol after suffering a concussion for community footballers.
All Australian Football competitions outside of the AFL and AFLW will adopt the minimum 21-day protocol, including VFL, VFLW and Coates Talent League competitions, an increase on the 12-day graded loading program from 2023.
The new guidelines mean that the earliest a player who suffers from a concussion can return to play is the 21st day after the concussion diagnosis, provided they receive a medical clearance and complete the returnto-play program.
The day on which the concussion is sustained is considered Day Zero, with Day One being the day after the game.
For example, should all fixtures occur on a Saturday, the protocols mean that, at a minimum, the player will miss matches on the following two Saturdays.
Should medical clearance be obtained by the player from their medical practitioner, and the player successfully progresses through all three stages of the return-to-play program, the player will be eligible for selection on the third Saturday post the concussion diagnoses, the 21st day since the incident.
The updated guidelines insist on a minimum period of 24 hours or longer for each step of progression through the return-toplay program and, if any symptoms recur during the graded return to training and play stage, the player athlete must go back to the previous symptom-free step.
The guidelines also insist on an individualised approach to return to play where factors
such as young age, a history of learning disorders or mood disturbance that may impact on monitoring of recovery, or a history of multiple concussions, may necessitate a more cautious and conservative approach.
The player must have medical assessment prior to being cleared to return to full contact training with the group and then a further medical assessment before being cleared to return to play.
AFL General Counsel Stephen Meade said the AFL takes very seriously the issue of concussion and the updated community football guidelines reflect the AFL’s ongoing commitment to the health and safety of all present, past and future players.
“The updated community guidelines represent a significant step in the AFL’s existing record of ongoing improvements to its concussion management strategy that reflect medical research and other learnings over time,” Mr Meade said.
“We play a contact sport and there is always going to be risk, however over recent years we have continued to take action to strengthen match-day protocols and amend the Laws of the Game to discourage high contact, and we will continue to do so.
”While there are risks of injury in our sport, we will continue to act to reduce and manage those risks, and there are also many very significant physical and mental health benefits of playing our great game.
“The AFL’s concussion guidelines are the most stringent concussion protocols in Australian sport both at a community and elite level and we are committed to continuing to take action to protect the safety of players at all levels of the game.”
The new community football guidelines and the elite football guidelines are in-step with the recent Australian Institute of Sport’s Concussion and Brain Health Position Statement regarding return to play protocols postconcussion, the AFL said.
The full details of the new community football guidelines will be released in the coming weeks ahead of the community football seasons.
Casey South Melbourne captain Luke Shelton sees plenty of parallels between his side and their preliminary final opponents, Ringwood, and expects a fierce game of high-stakes cricket this weekend.
A spot in the Victorian Premier Cricket grand final is on the line when the Swans welcome the Rams to Casey Fields, with a return to the biggest day on the calendar for the red and white for the second time in three seasons at their fingertips.
After a stirring underdog win in the qualifying final, the Swans earned the blessing of no cricket this weekend, staying out of the scorching heat, unlike their opponents, with some players taking the opportunity to switch-off and refresh ahead of a massive potential two weeks.
The two sides’ only meeting was in a T20 clash this season, making it tough to scout one-another, but Shelton believes he has a solid understanding on what Ringwood can bring as a unit based on previous years’ contests.
“The experience they’ve got, with (Tom) Rogers, one of, if not the best batter in the competition, he’s a very good player and can take the game away from you very quickly.
“Then you throw in the experience of guys like (David) King, Lachie Bangs is in great form, they’re a real senior, ruthless cricket team with a lot of experience.
“(Matt) Fotia’s been an outstanding bowler in his own right, personality I think he’s been a little bit stiff in the last three of four years not to get the opportunities at a higher level.
“They’re definitely a very tough opposition and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
In opening batter Tom Rogers and spearhead Matthew Fotia, the Rams have their answers to Ashley Chandrasinghe and Nathan Lambden, while veteran David King joined the 10,000 Premier Cricket run club
earlier this season and remains a key wicket on their batting card.
It’s a balanced side that will test the Swans in both departments, underpinned by unsung heroes that allow the stars to flourish.
“I think their other guys probably don’t get the credit or the recognition that they deserve in terms of wickets,” Shelton said.
“Fotia would be the first one to second this, he’d be very similar to Nathan; they’re the leaders of the attack, the spearheads, the aggressors, the ones who can take the game by the scruff at any stage but without guys at the other end putting some pressure on and building dot-ball pressure, they probably get to reap the rewards a little bit and that’s
what makes them so good at their roles.
“They (Lambden and Fotia) can come in and be aggressive and take the game on because they know they’ve got guys at the other end who are playing really selfless roles.
“They just play their role and it probably gets highlighted behind closed doors, but publicly, not as much as it should.”
Against Prahran, while Lambden finished with five wickets, it was Devin Pollock, (86), Chris Benedek (45) and Shelton (70) that rescued the Swans with the bat, while Jackson Fry bowled 11 maidens in his 25 overs, and the remaining bowlers all kept their economy rates under three, to keep the pressure on while Lambden attacked.
In home conditions with a staunch, loyal
supporter base behind them, the Swans will enter the match as favourites.
All-rounder Ruwantha Kellapotha will be touch and go in his recovery from a broken toe, but shapes as the only likely change to the 11 that got the better of Prahran.
Crucially, all they need is a draw, as the higher-ranked progresses under Premier Cricket rules, a handy card to play if need be.
Greatness is at the Swans’ doorstep, but as they have done all year, Shelton and his chargers are approaching the season one week at a time.
“We’ve been pretty bullish in our approach and our end goal all season.
“We believed from day one of preseason that we were good enough to go all the way this year so our expectations have always been high, we’ve always had a high ceiling on what we can achieve.
“For us it’s been about ticking boxes and slowly working our way towards what we believe is a position that we should be in.
“Whoever’s going to be hungrier, want it more and performs, is going to get the result.
“We’re looking forward to another step in our road and hopefully we can take the right one.“
Sounding familiar? There’s a very good reason for that.
12 months on from the previous decider, Berwick’s Buchanan Road will resemble a busy thoroughfare as the DDCA community descends on the Bear Cave to witness which team will be crowned champions of the 202324 Turf 1 season.
Springvale South, the benchmark all year, is shooting for unprecedented history, aiming to be the first team in the near-100 year history of the DDCA win a hat-trick of premierships.
Undefeated for the first 11 rounds, two losses in the back half of the year saw the Bloods suffer a minor stumble, but when it counted in the qualifying final, they were flawless in their execution against their grand final opponent.
Of the two losses, critically, one came against Buckley Ridges, back in round 12.
While the Bloods were undermanned in that fixture, not every team can chase 361 like Buckley did, particularly when their season looked in jeopardy after a brutal first day.
Courtesy of a 12-point deduction for breaching their player point allocation, Buckley Ridges looked at risk of slipping out of the top four that day, but rallied as they so often do, proving that counting them out is a risky exercise.
The case could be made that, due to only losing once in the home-and-away season, the Bucks were the competition’s premier team, the points deduction the primary reason for slipping down the table.
Here are the key factors to watch out for on Saturday.
SPREADING THE LOAD
The round-12 win proved that there are frailties in the Bloods’ line-up - you just have to scour really hard to find them.
Jordan Wyatt (129) and Mitch Forsyth (70) accounted for 199 of the Bloods’ 361 runs, with the lower order failing to maximise the incredible platform the two created.
With 706 runs for the Wookey Medal-winning season, Wyatt now sits 471 runs clear of his nearest teammate, in Jordan Mackenzie.
It’s yet to impact the Bloods this season, but if the Bucks can remove Wyatt early, questions will be asked of his Springvale South teammates that have seldom been asked this season.
Removing Wyatt early, however, is a big ask, considering his recent form – his last four innings read 129 (against Buckley), 75, 77 and 89 (also against Buckley).
With the ball, spinner Jarryd Straker opened the season with 11 wickets against St Mary’s and never looked back from the pinnacle of the Bloods’ leading wicket taker’s list.
With 37 wickets, he’s 12 clear of Blade Baxter’s 25 poles, and 22 ahead of Josh Dowling and Jackson Sketcher, with 15 apiece.
His 2-103 in round 12 was his worst performance of the year, when the Bucks, through left-hander Josh Holden, maximised their home ground’s bizarre dimensions and picked him off on the tight square boundaries.
While Arch Brown Reserve doesn’t quite offer the same temptations, it is shorter on its square boundaries and longer straight down
the ground.
Like with Wyatt, if the Bucks have the same success against Straker, it will be up to the remainder of the attack to step-up.
THE TOSS
Buckley Ridges have performed at their best this season when their backs are against the wall.
Four times they’ve successfully chased targets in two-day cricket, twice since Christmas reeling in scores in excess of 300, and a further three times in one-day games, suggesting they’ve mastered the art.
While their only two losses have come when asked to defend, including the qualifying final thrashing, when Wyatt sent them in to bat.
Should the toss of the coin fall their way, Buckley choosing to bowl seems as safe a bet as a catch into Troy Aust’s gloves.
Whether the risk to surrender prime batting conditions is worth it will weigh heavily on Ryan Quirk’s shoulders, should he win the toss.
For its part, Springvale South developed a habit of completing short chases after stellar bowling performances, particularly in one-day cricket, and have proven adept at both tasks, chasing and defending.
The last five Turf 1 clashes are split 5-4-1, the Bloods with their noses slightly in front.
Two of the five wins came in the last two grand finals, no doubt looming in the back of Buckley’s mind, as much as Buckley skipper, Jayson Hobbs, didn’t believe it would be a factor.
“I don’t think you address it, it’s in the past and we move on,” he said of the recent grand final records.
“The greatest thing is we get another opportunity.
“We get another crack at it and we’ll crack in.”
WEATHER
Last weekend’s heat offered oppressive conditions for cricket as temperatures pushed the 40-degree mark across Melbourne.
While the Bucks had to fight tooth-and-nail to claw their way into the grand final in 155 overs over the two days, the Bloods had the week off, a crucial recovery period late in the season coming off a packed month.
Some spent the weekend supporting their lower grade sides while others went to Park Oval to do some scouting of their upcoming opponents.
How Buckley backs-up will be critical this week, as the Bloods will be fresh and eager to maximise the advantage the rest created.
It was at Arch Brown Reserve in round 14 where Wyatt and Baxter’s energy and hustle between the wickets turned their contest with Berwick on its head, and if they bring the same intensity this week, the Bucks could be introuble.
At time of print, the forecast for the weekend is 25 on Saturday and 29 on Sunday, with very low chances of rain.
Springvale South has a pair of batters under injury clouds with their selections, who, along with the returning Ryan Quirk, are the only likely changes to the XI that won the qualifying final.
Jordan Mackenzie and Cam Forsyth are battling quad and hand injuries, respectively, both sustained in round 14’s win over Berwick.
Both are confident that they will recover in time, leaving the likes of Liam Hamilton, Brayden Sharp and Stephen Hennessey vul-
nerable, having been promoted from the reserves side for the qualifying final.
Hamilton and Sharp both made single-figure scores, and neither made impacts with the bat in the Turf 1 reserves grand final last weekend, while Hennessy hit a critical 95 in the decider, leaving him in the box-seat to retain his place if required.
Buckley Ridges is likely to be locked-in to their playing XI.
Jayson Hobbs, Buckley Ridges captain:
“We can’t wait for it and we’re ready to get back into it.
“Jordan Wyatt is a massive player for them, he’s had a tremendous season.
“Blade (Baxter) and (Straker) through the middle periods are big factors for them.
“We’ll have to try to conquer them, but we’re up for the fight and we feel like we’ve got the group to win it.
“They knocked us off comfortably last week but we’re going to be up for it.
“Absolutely we can win it.”
Paul Hill, Springvale South coach:
“We’ve got a ticket there now, we’re in the grand final, so we’re only one win away from it.
“Enjoy it, we’ve won the last two and we don’t want to take it for granted, you don’t always get the opportunity to play in grand finals.”
TIP
Springvale South will add a third-successive premiership to the Alex Nelson Reserve trophy cabinet, capping a season in which they won the T20 premiership, and saw Jordan Wyatt claim the Wookey Medal.
Baxter, meanwhile, will successfully defend his Damien Fleming Medal, as the Player of the Match.
Narre Warren Bowls Club is shouting from the rooftops of its magnificent Pantherdome after claiming its first Division Championship in its 37-year history on the weekend.
In a tremendous performance by the Panthers, nine of their 10 Pennant teams played finals, with several teams promoted and none relegated for next season.
But undoubtedly the highlight was the achievement of the club’s number-one weekend pennant team who began its memorable run by finishing top of the Division 2, Section 8 ladder.
After 13 wins and one loss during the homeand-away season; finals victories over Burden Park (105-47) and Berwick (80-78) saw the Panthers seal the Section Championship.
But they weren’t finished yet; taking on the cream of the crop from across Metropolitan Melbourne in the Division Finals.
First up, on Sunday 3 March, the Panthers accounted for Vermont South (91-64) in the quarter-finals with Chis Stubbings, Eric Sydenham, Geoff Bailey and Cam Bell guiding the team to victory with a massive 29-shot win.
After a six-day break, the Panthers then headed to Yarraville/Footscray to take on Melton in the semi-finals on Saturday.
With Wilma Stevenson, David Wood, John Pentreath and Colin Groom winning by seven, the Panthers claimed an 84-78 triumph to set up a grand final clash with Deer Park.
Sunday at Moonee Ponds proved to be a classicwiththePantherswinning84-80toclaim their first ever Division Championship flag.
Chis Stubbings, Geoff Bailey, Alan Hilton and Cam Bell were spectacular in the final, winning their rink by 24 shots.
After 64 Division 2 teams began their journey in October; the Narre Warren team had reigned supreme, being Metropolitan Division 2 Champions and earning promotion to Division 1 along the way.
Club Secretary Eric Sydenham said the win was a special moment for the club.
“The Panthers have had an incredible journey this season,” Sydenham began.
“From the very beginning they set their sights on the metro final and worked tirelessly to reach this moment.
“They faced some tough opponents along the way, but they never wavered in their determination.”
Sydenham said the final against Deer Park tested the determination of all players.
“It was a nail-biting game, with both teams giving it their all until the very end,” he said.
“Every player on the team played a crucial role in securing this win and now, as they stand tall as the Metro champions, we could not be prouder of them.
“This win is not just for the Panthers, but for
everyone who has been a part of this journey.
“It’s an outstanding achievement by all members at the Pantherdome.”
The other remarkable achievement this season was that some teams which won promotion last season; earned promotion this season again.
Narre Warren’s development squad - which was given the task of not getting relegatedtook this on as a challenge and made it through to the preliminary final in Division 4.
The spirit in this team of relatively new bowlers was amazing and a great indication of the overall spirit at the Pantherdome this year.
The Panthers have already started planning for next season with several highly-talented bowlers having already signed on for 2024/25.
The club is interested in talking to anyone who feels that they can contribute to continuing its recent success.
Footnote:Thank you to stats assistant Lindsay Gibson for the great work he has done during the season in compiling results for all sides.
WEEKEND PENNANT
NARRE WARREN’S DIVISION 2 JOURNEY
· Section Semi-Final – Div 2 Sect 8
Saturday February 24 at Narre Warren
Narre Warren defeated Burden Park 105-47
Chris Stubbings, Geoff Bailey, Chris Johnson, Cameron Bell: +5
Scott Butterworth, Peter Butterworth, John Pentreath, Colin Groom: +14
Isobel Partington, Phil Howard, Cam Lee, Zak Storm: +27
Lynne Wood, Jim Stewart, Alan Hilton, Ethan Higgins: +12
· Section Final - Div 2 Sect 8
Saturday 2 March at Mulgrave Country Club
Narre Warren defeated Berwick 80-78
Isobel Partington; Phil Howard; Cam Lee and Zak Storm: -5
Wilma Stevenson; David Wood; John Pentreath and Colin Groom: -2
Lynne Wood; Jim Stewart; Alan Hilton and Ethan Higgins: -7
Chis Stubbings; Geoff Bailey; Chris Johnson and Cam Bell: +16
DIVISION 2 – DIVISIONAL PLAY OFF SERIES
· Divisional Quarter-Final
Sunday 3 March at Burden Park
NarreWarren defeatedVermont South 91-64
Isobel Partington; Phil Howard; Cam Lee and Zak Storm: -1
Wilma Stevenson; David Wood; John Pentreath and Colin Groom: +5
Lynne Wood; Jim Stewart; Chris Johnson and Alan Hilton: -6
Chis Stubbings; Eric Sydenham; Geoff Bailey; and Cam Bell: +29
· Divisional Semi-Final
Saturday 9 March at Yarraville/Footscray
Narre Warren defeated Melton 84-78
Isobel Partington; Phil Howard; Cam Lee and Zak Storm: +6
Wilma Stevenson; David Wood; John Pentreath and Colin Groom: +7
Lynne Wood; Jim Stewart; Chris Johnson and Ethan Higgins: -6
Chis Stubbings; Geoff Bailey; Alan Hilton and Cam Bell: -1
· Divisional Grand-Final
Sunday 10 March at Moonee Ponds
Narre Warren defeated Deer Park 84-80
Isobel Partington; Phil Howard; Cam Lee and Zak Storm: -2
Wilma Stevenson; David Wood; John Pentreath and Colin Groom: -12
Lynne Wood; Jim Stewart; Chris Johnson and Ethan Higgins: -6
Chis Stubbings; Geoff Bailey; Alan Hilton and Cam Bell: +24
MIDWEEK PENNANT
FINAL SERIES
SIDE 1: DIV 2 SECT 7
· Semi-Final 2: defeated Clayton 82-31
Best rink: Phil Howard; Jim Stewart; Dianne McCleod and Keith Fox: +24
· Grand Final: defeated by Clayton 48-56
Best rink: Phi Howard, Jim Stewart, Dianne McLeod and Keith Fox: +2
SIDE 2: DIV 2 SECT 8
· Semi-Final 1: defeated Mulgrave CC 61-44
Best rink: Joe Selfridge; Lorraine Marsden; Eric Marsden and Wilma Stevenson: +8
· Preliminary Final: defeated Edithvale 62-49
Best rink: Les Clement; Peter Groom; Peter Wills and Colin Groom: +13
· Section Grand Final: lost to Dandenong Club 55-65
Les Clement; Peter Groom; Peter Wills and Colin Groom: +10
Joe Selfridge; Lorraine Marsden; Eric Marsden and Wilma Stevenson: -13
Michael Black; Wally Finlayson; Craig Lineham and Dennis Paul: -7
SIDE 4: DIV 5 SECT 7
· Semi-Final 2: lost to Pakenham 55-67
Best rink: Len O’Brien; David Inifer; Darren Thompson and Gary Wilson: +14
· Preliminary Final: defeated Cardinia Waters 74-39
Best rink: Pam Uren; Brian Nicholls; Ernesto Vergara and Arthur Scheurer: +17
· Sectional Grand Final: defeated Pakenham 72-38
Pam Uren; Brian Nicholls; Wendy Henkel and Arthur Scheurer: +21
Len O’Brien; Peter Anderton; Darren Thompson and Gary Wilson: +14
Michael Nelson; David Inifer; Stella Ellis and Denise Ferguson: -1
· Divisional Quarter-Final:
Thursday 7 March at Mulgrave Country Club
Narre Warren lost to Werribee 49-77
Pam Uren; Brian Nicholls; Wendy Henkel and Arthur Scheurer: +6
Len O’Brien; Peter Anderton; Ernesto Vergara and Darren Thompson: -18
Michael Nelson; David Inifer; Stella Ellis and Denise Ferguson: -16
In a thrilling opening encounter of the Victorian Netball League (VNL) season; Casey Demons showcased their prowess and determination securing a historic victory over Geelong Cougars.
The Championship side delivered an impressive performance, marking the first time in the Demons’ five-year history that they emerged triumphant against the formidable Cougars.
The match was a closely contested battle, with both teams showcasing their skills and resilience throughout the game.
The Demons got off to a strong start, with Sinead Lumsden moving effortlessly in the goal circle, ably supported by the reliable Emma Ryde.
Debutant Ash Gill made an immediate impact at Wing Attack, driving the ball with precision into the goal circle.
The defensive prowess of captain Sharni Lambden atWing Defence proved crucial, effectively shutting down options for the Cougars.
Gabby Dwyer, making her Demons de-
Picture: SUPPLIED
but at Goal Keeper, displayed resilience and strength as she returned from injury.
Steph McNay wreaked havoc in the defensive end, reading the ball expertly and capitalising on any opportunities that came her way.
Fresh legs in the form of Poppy Douglass
and Sarah McCabe injected a burst of energy into the Demons, helping them maintain a narrow lead at halftime.
Refocused in the second half, the Demons continued to chip away, rewarding defensive pressure and converting turnovers into valuable goals.
Tayla Honey’s return to the centre in the third quarter, combined with Sacha McDonald’s strategic play, ensured a seamless feed into the goal circle, where Ryde and Douglass capitalised on their opportunities.
The Demons ultimately secured a hardfought four-goal victory, marking a significant achievement for the Championship side.
Meanwhile, the 23-Under side, featuring eight Demons debutants, faced a challenging start against the Cougars.
The loss of midcourter Mikayla Phillips to a serious knee injury early in the game was a devastating blow, but the young Demons regrouped and stuck with the Cougars for the first half.
Goalers Malia Seumanutafa and Kaylah
Loulanting demonstrated impressive chemistry in their first encounter together, showcasing strength and determination.
Holly Stephens, entering the game in the second half, displayed accuracy in her shooting, contributing to the team’s resilience.
Despite the setback, the mid-court reshuffle provided opportunities for youngsters Mollie Helmot, Charlize Buskermolen, and Liv Hamilton to persist and work through the challenges of being a player down.
Defenders Lupe Fonua, Ella Rees, Iliseva Sovau, and Abbey Whitaker faced a tough battle against the tall Cougars goal ring but displayed unwavering determination.
With Round 1 now under their belts, the young Demons can reflect on their performance and look ahead to the upcoming challenge against Melbourne University Lightning in Round 2.
The resilience and determination shown by both the Championship and 23-Under sides signal a promising start to the season for the Casey Demons.
-Rebekah Bogos