News - Cranbourne Star News - 4th April 2024

All together in the name of harmony

Traditional and cultural dresses from Ireland, India, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe were proudly on display in the classrooms of Clyde Grammar on Friday 22 March as part of the school’s Harmony Day celebrations.

The school, with students from five continents across Australasia, Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe, has celebrated Harmony Day since it first opened its doors in 2020 and it has become an important and much-loved date in the calendar for students and staff.

“We are proud to have students from different cultures at our school and Harmony Day was a great opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate these cultures together,” Clyde Grammar School principal Leanne Evans said.

VCAT rules on fill

By

A Cranbourne South landowner filled and levelled his land, including parts of the floodplain, and destroyed native vegetation progressively over the years without permits, the state tribunal has heard.

The aerial images from 2018 to 2022, supplied by Casey Council, have shown that it transformed the subject land, which is approximately four hectares at 204 Pearcedale Road, from a strip of green space into reclaimed land. Casey Council applied for an enforcement order against the landowner, Terrence Daniel White, in front of the Victorian Civil and Ad-

ministrative Tribunal (VCAT).

It alleged that Mr White contravened the planning scheme by depositing fill onto the land, including parts subject to inundation, and lopping, destroying, and removing native trees and vegetation all without necessary permits.

The council explained that as the land sits in the Green Wedge Zone and the whole frontage to Pearcedale Road is affected by the Land Subject to Inundation Overlay (LSIO), which relates to the nearby Langwarrin Creek, permits are required for earthworks that change the rate of flow or the discharge point of water across property boundary, which satisfies the

nature of Mr White’s activities on the land.

It further explained that an Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO) necessitates permits for removing any vegetation on the land, including dead vegetation.

Council’s planning compliance officer John Letchford told the tribunal as a witness that he attended the site six times between March 2019 and May 2020 and observed that heavy vehicles deposited large amounts of fill onto the subject land, including the part affected by the LSIO and the ESO.

Ryan Harris, another witness with the council and a senior natural resources management officer, attended the site once on

17 April 2019 and noted that fill material had been placed on the subject land and there were two piles of vegetation at the rear of the subject land, which contained both exotic and native vegetation.

Melbourne Water, the floodplain manager under the planning scheme, conducted a hydraulic assessment to determine the impact of the importation of fill on the subject land and two adjoining premises.

It examined the impact of floodplain fill-in on the volume of the floodplain loss and flood level.

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Arjan, Noah, Gurleen, and Ekam. 395864

Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC

Meet our Community Leadership Program graduates

Our Community Leadership Program is back for its fourth year and Expressions of Interest are now open until 5.00 pm on Friday 19 April.

This free program is for new, emerging and existing community leaders aged 18 years and over who want to enhance their leadership skills, create new networks and learn more about local government.

Mush Rahaman and Ben Plunkett are two graduates of the Community Leadership Program.

Mush lives in Berwick with his family and is a small business owner, running a café in Berwick Village. The program helped inspire Mush to really do more for his local community and provided him with an understanding about how Council works, including budgeting, resourcing and future priorities.

“The Community Leadership Program will really give you a reason to help out and show what you are good at so you can do something worth it that makes a change,” Mush said.

Solar solutions available for residents and businesses in Casey

We have teamed up with Solar Savers, to make solar installation easy, affordable and reliable for residents and businesses.

An online information session will be held on Tuesday 16 April from 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm.

This is a free session and bookings are required.

If you would like to learn more about switching to solar, book now by scanning the QR Code.

Connect, reflect and celebrate at the 2024 Casey Cardinia Heritage Festival

Join some of our community’s most passionate and knowledgeable local historians for a walk down memory lane at the Casey Cardinia Heritage Festival.

The Festival will be held on Sunday 21 April from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm at Berwick Senior Citizens Centre, 112 High Street, Berwick.

This is a free event and no bookings are required.

Ben is proud of the community initiatives he has been able to help deliver with the Rotary Club, including an Interact Club — a young person’s Rotary Club that started in Narre Warren. As President of the Rotary, he has led three main focus areas around mental health, family violence and youth.

“The Community Leadership Program is like an A to Z of leadership — it’s a program for everyone. If you have a little calling in the back of your mind to sign up, then just do it and put in an application,” Ben said.

For more information and to apply, please visit our community consultation website Casey Conversations. For application support, please email caseyclp@casey.vic.gov.au or call 9705 5722.

Looking for new ways to get active?

Active Autumn is a Council-led program that aims to introduce you to a variety of free and low-cost physical activities for fitness and fun.

Run throughout April, there’s something for all abilities and age groups, including basketball, walking groups, park runs, yoga, scavenger hunts, boxing, Zumba, Bollyfit, Akido and more!

For more information and to book, please visit our website.

Provide feedback on a number of consultations currently open on our community engagement platform, Casey Conversations.

• Berwick Village Activity Centre: help us shape the future of Berwick Village and provide feedback on the current structure plan which requires updating.

• Endeavour Hills dog-friendly park: have your say on the proposed location and design.

• Safe Around Schools program: complete the survey to tell us what traffic safety concerns you have around Narre Warren South P-12 College.

• Community Service Organisations Growth and Attraction Framework: we are seeking your feedback on the draft Framework.

Head to the Casey Conversations website to find out more or scan the QR code.

Ben Plunkett. Mush Rahaman.

Double drowning tragedy

By Keira Jenkins, AAP

The community of two men who drowned while trying to save a toddler who fell into a pool is devastated by their deaths.

Dharmvir Singh, 38, and Gurjinder Singh, 65, leapt into the pool at a Gold Coast hotel to try to save the younger man’s child on Sunday, 31 March.

The two-year-old had been playing on the step of the pool before losing their footing and falling into deeper water.

The deepest part of the pool is 2.1 metres with the shallow end 1m deep.

Police said the father and grandfather were able to get the child to safety, but could not swim and got into trouble in the water.

“Unfortunately they were not able to save

themselves,” Superintendent Peter Miles said.

“It’s a tragic reminder of what can go wrong and how quickly it can occur.The two-year-old is safe and well but they’re without their father and grandfather now.”

Victorian Sikh Gurdwaras Council vice president Gurdeep Singh Matharoo said it was a “very sad moment” for the community.

“I can feel the pain,” he told ABC Radio.

“It’s a pain for every family who lost their two fathers in the moment.”

Royal Life Saving chief executive Justin Scarr said there had been a number of drownings in hotel or motel swimming pools over the past few years.

He said there was a need to look more closely at safety guidelines of these pools.

“It may be that the current regime, signing and fencing is not enough and more needs to be done, given a range of factors including the sorts of activities that people are doing in those pools and perhaps some weaknesses in people’s understanding of water safety,” he said.

Mr Scarr said there had been at least 34 drowning deaths in March across the country.

Over the 2023/2024 summer months, 99 people drowned.

The two men who drowned were holidaying on the Gold Coast from Victoria.

Premier Jacinta Allan said Victoria ran a range of programs when asked if more needed to be done to teach adults and the multicultural community to swim.

“I would certainly encourage everyone to be safe around the water,” she said.

“Today, I think our focus should be on supporting the family and the loved ones who have gone through such a terrible, terrible tragedy at a time when they were hoping to enjoy a really lovely holiday.”

Mr Scarr said it was important for people of all ages to learn swimming skills and for young children to be constantly watched in the water.

“Ensuring that all Australians, whether they’re residents, migrants, people who were born here or from overseas, ensuring that everyone understands water safety is important,” he said.

Supt Miles said safety measures at the pool would form part of the report police are preparing for the coroner.

Scholarship boost for software engineering student

By Violet Li

Babu has earned herself a generous scholarship and extra opportunities for personal empowerment with her strong passion for driving positive change through her STEM major.

She has been awarded the 2024 Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship, which amounts to $20,000 in total, including travel expenses for the leadership programs across the state and overseas and three years of financial support for her studies.

She is one of the 35 recipients of the scholarship who are passionate about technology and eager to explore its potential for good.

A Bachelor of Software Engineering student at RMIT, Merin has been interested in improving cybersecurity and developing innovative solutions that make technology more secure and reliable for all users.

“I feel like as much as technology has improved in our world, there are a lot of dangerous risks as well,” she said.

“And I feel like I should at least help support the solutions that save people from becoming problematic with technology.

“I’m hoping to further improve the problems associated with technology with the scholarship.”

Merin is also ardent about advancing her skills and knowledge related to AI.

“Everyone’s been using ChatGPT a lot and in the universities as well. People are relying on it a lot,” she said.

“That’s what I’m interested in AI, like how to minimise the use of ChatGPT for learning because it might affect your studies. You will not understand everything you learn if you keep relying on it.”

When Merin first chose her major, it was more of a decision directed by societal trends.

“When it was time to choose my course, my parents, my sister, and my friends, all suggested that I should do a technologyrelated degree because tech is like a booming industry in the world right now,” she recalled.

However, as she finally engaged herself with the course and the scholarship, she

Man shot while sitting in vehicle in Lynbrook

Police are investigating a shooting in Lynbrook on the night of 27 March.

It’s believed a man was shot while sitting in a vehicle at a set of traffic lights at the intersection of Commercial Drive and South Gippsland Highway about 8.30pm.

The man was driven to the hospital by a relative where he remained in a stable condition.

The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined at this stage.

Detectives will investigate if a car fire in Narre Warren on the same night is linked to the shooting.

Emergency services received reports an Audi was alight on Boundary Road shortly before 9.30pm.

The fire is being treated as suspicious.

Anyone with information about the shoot-

ing or the car fire is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.

realised that her major would help a lot of people in society.

“I didn’t have an idea at the start, but then once I entered my degree, I realised how important it was and how much I should contribute to it,” she said.

Merin said she really appreciated the opportunities the scholarship had and would provide. “There’s a lot of training courses in coding,” she said.

“And there are a lot of leadership programs. I attended a summit in Sydney. They had a lot of talks about reimagining your future, your life, and how you can support society with a technology-related degree.”

Cranbourne West student Sahaya Merin Victor

A Bachelor of Software Engineering student at RMIT, Sahaya Merin Victor Babu has been awarded the 2024 Westpac Young Technologists Scholarship. 398335

Picture: ROB CAREW

Abalone leads to $6k fine

By Violet Li

A Cranbourne East man has received a fine without conviction for trafficking a commercial quantity of abalone.

Junior Finai, 24 at the time of the offending, was involved in a syndicate of 10, known as the Cruse Syndicate, that illegally harvested abalone in Victoria between January and April 2020.

He pleaded guilty in the County Court of Victoria on 21 February 2024 to a single offence and was fined $6,000 without conviction.

On 28 March 2020, investigators observed that Mr Finai and other syndicate members dived west of Crayfish Bay and one of them “made his way out of the water dragging a green mesh catch bag along the shallows while attempting to conceal its contents”, the court heard.

Mr Finai was observed on two occasions “carrying a mesh catch bag containing large quantities of abalone” and was photographed holding a screwdriver, a tool commonly used to shuck abalone.

Approximately 250 abalone were obtained.

A conversation between Mr Finai and another member was recorded later the day regarding the price of abalone per kilogram and how much each member expected to receive after the sale.

On 29 March, other syndicate members were seen in Springvale to sell the illegally harvested abalone from the day before.

Mr Finai was found not to hold a relevant fishery access licence or act on behalf of the holder of an access licence at the time of the offending.

The court also heard that 28 March 2020 was a designated closed day to harvest any

abalone in central Victorian waters.

Abalone is identified as a priority species under the Fisheries Act 1995 (FA) and only holders of commercial fishery access licences are permitted to take it for sale.

The annual quota of commercial abalone fishery in Victoria is 100 or more abalone or 10 kilograms or more abalone including shells.

Trafficking in a commercial quantity of a priority species is a serious offence and offenders could face the maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

Judge Douglas Trapnell noted that the offence occurred on a single occasion and fell at the lower end of offending of this type given the relatively minor role Mr Finai played in the syndicate.

“Your offending was of a short duration, occurring over the course of a two-day period,” he said.

Floodplain works ruled in breach at VCAT

From page 1

The assessment submitted that “maintaining floodplain storage is imperative to avoiding flood impacts downstream and to neighbouring properties”.

“The subject site located adjacent to Langwarrin Creek, in addition to being flood prone, provides natural storage for floodwaters, which retards flows and reduces the frequency and duration of floods downstream,” it stated.

“The hydraulic assessment undertaken by Melbourne Water concluded that the importation and levelling of fill on the subject and neighbouring land increases the 1 per cent AEP Flood levels by approximately 100mm on the subject land and 202 Pearcedale Road.”

Norman MacDonald, who represented Mr White in the tribunal, submitted that the earthworks were exempted from the need to obtain a permit because Mr White filled and levelled the subject land to“restore the natural terrain of the subject land to its natural existing condition”, which therefore did not result in any change.

He also argued that Mr White did not destroy any vegetation because the trees still “physically remained on the land”.

He submitted that the vegetation removal was exempted from a permit because Mr White only removed native vegetation that was dead, or was required for personal use, or could present an immediate risk of personal injury or damage to property, or was for constructing internal and boundary fences, or could enable the removal of pest burrows.

The tribunal rejected all of Mr MacDonald’s submissions and ruled that the fill importation and vegetation removal both required permits and were conducted in contravention of the planning scheme.

“I am satisfied that an enforcement order should be made against Terrence White. The progressive importation of fill and levelling of fill on the subject land over a period of years was a deliberate act as was the felling of native vegetation,” the tribunal concluded.

“The change to the existing condition of the land both through the change in ground

“Moreover, you were not directly involved in that sale.

“Finally, there is no evidence to suggest you benefited financially from your offending.”

Judge Trapnell called upon the delay of the charge and Mr Finai’s respective pleas of guilty as mitigating circumstances.

Judge Trapnell opined that a $6000 fine without conviction was the “appropriate disposition”, given the seriousness of the offence, Mr Finai’s culpability for it, and his personal circumstances.

“I accept you have not reoffended,” he said.

“I also accept you have a long history of gainful employment and enjoy a stable relationship with your current partner.

“These are protection factors which auger well for your future prospects of rehabilitation.”

Help build prosthetics

By Violet Li

Cranbourne Rotary Club is organising a Helping Hands Program on 11 May at Balla Balla Community Centre in Clyde North and inviting the local community to engage with the cause that empowers people in need of help worldwide.

Participants will build prosthetic hands that are donated to amputee landmine victims throughout developing countries.

Helping Hands Program is a social enterprise in Australia with a goal to maximise its impact on the world by getting involved in and funding life-changing charity projects.

Victorian facilitator for the Helping Hands Program Andrew Melas said the hands were purely mechanical, which didn’t require batteries or servicing.

“They’re very reliable and robust hands,” he said.

“The cost of the hands, which includes all manufacture and delivery around the world, comes to about $700 in total.

“It’s quite a low-cost solution to providing prosthetic hands.”

Mr Melas said the Helping Hands Program had been running in Australia for about 10 years and it had made about 24,000 hands that went to India, Uganda, Sudan, and other countries around the world.

“We just basically work with groups like Rotary, but we do a lot of corporate charity events as well where we’ll do a workshop for a half day,” he said.

“We build the hands with the participation of the people in the workshops.

“The Rotary Group in Cranbourne is actually raising money to buy as many hands as possible.They’re hoping to raise money to buy about 15 to 20 hands, and we’ll do a workshop on a Saturday with a lot of students from the local schools to build them and send them overseas.

“After we make the hands, we’re happy to ship the hands to those areas wherever Rotary groups have volunteers on the ground. They will contact us and say they’ll need 20 hands in an area.”

levels across the subject land and by the removal of large stands of vegetation and trees has significantly changed the landscape and character of the subject land.”

The tribunal also expressed concerns about the quality of the material used to fill the land, which was described as “rubble“ by the council’s witness.

“Unregulated filling of land risks contamination of land through the importation of unregulated material,” the tribunal noted. The enforcement orders seek to remove the fill material brought onto the land and reinstate vegetation on the subject land.

If you would like to participate in the Helping Hands Program, you can contact Paul Rice at paul@ultrasigns.com.au

Aerial image from 2022.

Pictures: SUPPLIED BY CASEY COUNCIL

Aerial image from 2018.

School bid faces backlash

By Emma Xerri

An online petition of more than 1400 signatures is opposing a new application for a controversial proposed school near Lysterfield Lake Park.

PARED Victoria lodged a ministerial planning permit application on 15 December 2023, after two previous proposals for new private boys’ school, Lysterfield Lake College, were knocked back by both Casey Council andVCAT.

The boys’ college, which is proposed to be developed at 19-23 Horswood Road, NarreWarren North, was rejected byVCAT due to the site’s unsuitability, and incongruence with state and local planning policies intended to protect the Casey Foothills.

In a recent statement from PARED, it stated it was “hopeful” of the outcome, which is expected in the second half of 2024, and that “the school is working with the relevant areas of government to ensure the success of the application”.

It noted that VCAT had stated the school is beneficial in planning terms as it meets state policy seeking “a diversity of primary and secondary schools”.

However, located next to Lysterfield Lake Park - which receives in excess of 500,000 visitors and tourists annually - local opponents argue the school would result in visibly intrusive urban development near the park, and a disregard for the rural expanse of green wedge land and its wildlife.

“It’s a shocking situation,” local resident and environmental advocate Karen Cavanagh said.

“The green wedge policies are just so weak.

“Once they get their foot in the door, there’s nothing stopping them from reapplying to expand the school.

“And they have to develop the whole site, because financially there are a certain number of students you need to make running a school financially viable.

“So it’s important that the school is refused

now, because once you’ve got a small school on the site, you can’t stop it from growing.”

Home to a plethora of wildlife in its natural habitat, the proposed site is a “haven” for animals like the kangaroo and the endangered swift parrot, along with seven other endangered species that rely on the park’s environment for survival, she said.

“The land needs to remain undeveloped to serve as a buffer zone between the town and the park.

“You can’t contain animals, they know no boundaries, so it has always been the plan for the animals of the park to be able to overflow into pastures and properties surrounding the park.”

Opponents have also raised concerns about the school’s proposed Kangaroo Management Plan.

Put forward during the VCAT case, the plan proposed the culling and relocation of the kangaroos from their natural habitat.

“I’ve been rescuing here for 18 years now, so

my main concern is the kangaroos,” Sue Johnston of Sue’s Roo Kangaroo Rescue-Rehab-Release said.

“I understand it’s not their land - the national park is - but they’ve been grazing that land for years.

“At the moment, the kangaroos are free to go on that property and the next property and the next… but if that is blocked off for them, then that will push them more onto Horswood Road.”

This sentiment was echoed by the petition’s signers, one of which noted in their comment that “humans do not have the right to interfere with the wildlife just because they are ‘in our way’”.

“It’s so overdue for us to learn that without nature and healthy ecosystems we cannot exist,” they wrote.

Through their petition, locals also take issue with traffic implications.

With the school publicly advocating for parents to transport their children to school, and

with no viable connection to public transport available, it would add to the traffic from private vehicles, the opponents argue.

They say it goes against the Victorian Government strategy which promotes a reduction in vehicle emissions and a focus on accessible, 20-minute neighbourhoods.

The potential influx of school-related traffic may disrupt park visitors and endanger wildlife, equestrian riders, and their horses. Additionally, the school’s presence is likely to worsen existing traffic congestion on a road that is already heavily congested, and contribute to increased traffic volume on nearby arterial routes, notably Belgrave-Hallam Road and Heatherton Road, the opponents say.

As well as impacts to traffic, petitioners are also arguing that a school development on the site would mean significantly higher volumes of wastewater and stormwater flowing downhill from the site, affecting the neighbouring lake, dams, wetlands, and Eumemmerring Creek.

“The old Narre Warren North Township Strategy talks about making sure that land north of the township is not developed because the land is not capable of servicing septic systems,” said Ms Cavanagh.

“You’re talking about hilly land and granite boulders all around the ground, which complicate septic absorption.” The objectors are also concerned by the location of a school at the end of a dead-end road with only one entry and exit lane in a high-risk bushfire area, which is at odds with both Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO) policies and the 2009 Royal Commission recommendations. It will also test Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny’s commitment to strengtheningprotectionsforgreenwedges,going against one of the key Labor Party promises to hold strong on the Urban Growth Boundary and restricting growth beyond the boundary, the objectors say.

As the matter is currently before the Minister, PARED stated it was “not appropriate” to provide further comment at this time.

Karen Cavanagh, Kate Rousseaux, Ken Russell and Sue Johnston in front of the proposed school site. 398283

Everyone’s in harmony

Traditional and cultural dresses from Ireland, India, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe were proudly on display in the classrooms of Clyde Grammar on Friday 22 March as part of the school’s Harmony Day celebrations.

The school, with students from five continents across Australasia, Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe, has celebrated Harmony Day since it first opened its doors in 2020 and it has become an important and much-loved date in the calendar for students and staff.

“We are proud to have students from different cultures at our school and Harmony Day was a great opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate these cultures together,” Clyde Grammar School principal Leanne Evans said.

As part of Harmony Week, classroom lessons include activities that focus on cultural diversity and inclusivity.

The week culminates in Harmony Day where students wear cultural dresses, and everyone also enjoys music and dance demonstrations from different cultures represented at the school.

This year students took part in a Harmony Day parade and wore cultural dresses from Australia, Ireland, India, Sri Lanka, Mauritius,

Persia, the Netherlands, Turkey, Italy, Greece, Colombia, Chile, and Zimbabwe.

“I really like the parade. My little brother is in Foundation, and this was his first time. I was excited for him because it creates good memories each year. Australia is one family, and every culture is welcome in Australia,” Year 3 student Sahib said.

“I did some dancing that I haven’t done before. I really enjoyed doing the Harmony Day activities,” Year 2 student Aiden said.

Mrs Evans said Harmony Day ‘lifted’ the atmosphere of the school.

“The beautiful costumes, colourful clothing, big smiles, and sense of belonging create quite a buzz that is hard to top,” she said.

“Dress-up days always get the students excited, however, our Harmony Day celebration has a very special feeling due to the lessons that happen during the week and the meaning behind the day.

“At Clyde Grammar we continually encourage the students to be the best version of themselves and to always be kind and respectful to others. Harmony Day reiterates those important life lessons.”

LENSCAPE OPINION

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs up

To all the volunteers on the gate at the Lang Lang Rodeo who so efficiently scanned tickets and organised parking. The toilets were kept clean and the rubbish bins kept from overflowing. So well done!

Thumbs down

To the people who park in the disabled area.

Thumbs up

To celebrating Easter with family.

Thumbs up

To the volunteers for the Yakkerboo Festival Pakenham who are working so so hard to bring something wonderful to Pakenham and working around all the ridiculous council red tape!

Thumbs up

To Thumbs Up Thumbs Down. It gives me a chance to sit for a minute and think about something positive that might have happened in the last week. Unless of course, I might have a specific Thumbs Down item.

Thumbs down

To people who ignore No Smoking signs and puff away at hospital entrances, forcing the rest of us to suffer just to get into the hospital.

Thumbs down

To the smell of sewage and smoke in Pakenham the last couple of weeks.

Thumbs up

To my hubby for getting me a chocolate sausage dog called Snickers for Easter.

Avreen, Agam, Skyla, Lex, and Ryan. 395864

Pictures: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC

Indie, Saron, Viyansh, Anthony, Sahibnoor, and Hazel. 395864

Devyansh, Emma, Ruby, Mudiwa, Ariah, and Rehras. 395864

Ashleen, Austin, Laylah, Rrayan, and Dinaya. 395864

Harmony Day about to begin. 395864

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The village is conveniently located with easy access to nearby shopping centres, public reserves, the freeway, and is just minutes away from the local golf club and the gorgeous Cranbourne Botanical Gardens.

Pop along to our upcoming Open Days to tour the brand-new homes, enjoy some refreshments, and get a taste of the Summerset life that our residents love so much.

Love the life you choose

Top citizen Keen to give

By Emma Xerri

CFA volunteer, former brigade captain and Casey Group Officer Shane Keen has been honoured by the City of Casey with the title of Casey Citizen of the Year for 2024, after more than 47 years of devout service across Casey’s CFA brigades.

Announced at a gala celebration event at Bunjil Place on Friday 22 March, the Casey Community Award winner was “humbled” to receive the accolade, marking a very proud moment for Shane who is otherwise quick to laugh about his “senior’s moments”.

“There were some very good candidates, and the finalists were all terrific, so I was very humbled to accept the award,” Shane said.

“It means a lot to me. I grew up in this area, so to see it grow so much and be part of that growth has been great.”

Shane’s decades-long run with the CFA got its start in 1977, after a desire to become more involved with his community saw him join the Hampton Park Fire Brigade.

“I wanted to give something back to the community. I wasn’t the type of person to join footy or cricket, so I thought I would give the CFA a go,” he said.

While Shane has since done the rounds throughout various local brigades, including five years at Narre Warren and three and a half years at Narre Warren North where he served as captain, the “camaraderie” and “community” that first inspired him to join at Hampton Park continues to live on for Shane, who believes “community is at the centre of all we do at the CFA”.

Quick to climb the volunteer ladder, Shane has taken turns occupying various positions across the organisation, from captain to Casey Group Officer.

In his role as the Group Officer, Shane works to facilitate information sharing and emer-

gency response development between the 13 brigades within the City of Casey, and assisting with their training and operational needs.

In an unceasing quest to give his all to his volunteer work, Shane is also a representative of the City of Casey Municipal Fire ManagementWorking Group and the Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee.

When asked why he has always sought to climb the CFA ladder, Shane humbly shared that he thinks it is because he is a leader.

“I believe I always have something good to offer,” he said, though hesitantly.

“And I’m a good listener. I listen to people’s needs and make sure they are met.”

As well as cultivating a rich investment in local fire safety and in his community as a whole, Shane’s time in the CFA has also helped

Refurbishment complete

The newly refurbished Hampton Park Community House was officially opened on Thursday 28 March, following a $972,884 upgrade.

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM and chief executive officer Glenn Patterson were joined by Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas, Hampton Park Community House honorary treasurer Bruce McBain, community house staff, and local community groups who use the facilities to celebrate the project’s completion.

Located on Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park Community House was established to support individuals of all ages and backgrounds to belong, be and become, and to support the local community to lead active and full lives through information, education, service provision, and advocacy.

Refurbishment works included the renovation of amenities, the relocation of a community space, the reconfiguration of the reception area, office, and classroom, the installation of

an airlock at the front entrance, and minor landscaping.

Ms Duff said the important refurbishment works at Hampton Park Community House would improve functionality at the facility.

“The works will also increase capacity at the site, allowing more people to attend its many programs, such as computer training, Tai Chi, English as a Second Language classes, occasional childcare and after-school care, and three and four-year-old kindergarten,” she said.

Ms Duff said the project was made possible thanks to a $938,884 grant from the State Government through the Growing Suburbs Fund, with council funding the remaining $34,000.

“The Growing Suburbs Fund grant is a vital source of funding for the City of Casey and other growth councils, helping to provide much-needed local infrastructure for our communities,” she said.

him grow at a more personal level, immersing him in career development opportunities that have allowed him to develop in his career outside the CFA, working for a private fire company Venetia Pty Ltd that looks after defence force bases.

“The CFA has given me the qualifications to be able to accept this job, which I’ve been at for nine years.”

But surely the most important of these personal experiences was getting to meet his wife and fellow volunteer, Sharyn, whose family has a combined effort of around 500 years with the CFA.

Together they have raised a son and daughter who, now adults themselves, have adopted their parents’ love for the organisation.

“We like to go for drives through the country and get away when we can.

“We’re not big explorers, we just like to have a break, read a good book, put our feet up and have some nice conversations.”

And for Shane, these getaways, much like his Citizen of the Year award, are more than deserved.

“I believe I’ve put so much into the community over this time.

“During the Black Saturday fires, which impacted Casey so heavily, I spent nearly two weeks mostly away from my family.

“And serving in these leadership roles and as the Group Officer, there have been times when I’ve given up birthday parties or family functions to get to an emergency.

“But all of that has accumulated in this award, so it has been well worth it.

“This is my time.”

Panel for plan inclusions

Casey Council has resolved to request the Minister for Planning to appoint an independent panel to consider the concerns raised by the community in response to the Collison Estate Planning Scheme Amendment at the 19 March council meeting.

The concerns regard the traffic impacts, drainage timing, and inclusion of infrastructure items for reimbursement.

The Planning Scheme Amendment C286case will introduce the proposed Collison Estate Development Contributions Plan(DCP)intotheCaseyPlanningScheme, which details the method to finance most of the needed key infrastructure items.

It will also help implement the proposed Collison Estate Development Plan (DP) into the Casey Planning Scheme, which sets out the development vision and urban structure.

The two plans will guide the redevelopment of the Cranbourne East precinct into a residential area consisting of approximately 1700 dwellings with a local neighbourhood activity centre and community facility.

The amendment attracted 48 submissions, including seven objections and eight support with changes.

Five objectors expressed concerns about the traffic impacts of the proposal on the surrounding road network. One of them stated that the proposed neighbourhood activity centre would cause increased congestion in the area.

Council officers responded to the concerns that the council had prepared a traffic impact assessment via specialist traffic management experts to advise how best to manage traffic and road infrastructure needs and impacts on the precinct and surrounds.

“Council will continue to assess traffic conditions and prioritise road improvement projects over time,” it stated.

“The temporary traffic impacts due to construction activities will be managed via the planning permit process to minimise inconvenience where possible.”

Three submitters had questions about the timing and process for the transfer of land to the council for needed drainage reserves and infrastructure.

Four submitters questioned the rationale for the delivery timing of certain road infrastructure set out in the DCP and asked why certain Local Access Streets were not included for DCP reimbursement.

Casey Council has proposed two changes after assessing all submissions, which are redesigning an existing traffic island with increased width and amending the road designations of Casey Fields Boulevard and Linsell

Hampton Park Community House executive officer Kate Madden, Hampton Park Community House honorary treasurer Bruce McBain, Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas, City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM and Hampton Park Community House secretary Diane Leak.

Shane Keen has been named the Casey Citizen of the Year for 2024. 398104

Shane Keen. 398104

ON … SENIORS ENJOYING LIFE

Elevate your lifestyle

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Lifestyle Communities is a world where downsizing your home means upgrading to a more vibrant life filled with unlimited possibilities. The Lifestyle Communities team are leaders in community living. They’re not just builders; they’re architects of unforgettable experiences, creators of lifelong connections, and designers of homes filled with an undeniable sense of belonging. They cater to the young at heart in their 50s and above, whether still working, retiring to reinvent, or just ready for a change. Lifestyle Communities is a place where neighbours become lifelong friends and where warmth, laughter, and fun never get old.

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF ENRICHING

LIVES

Two decades of passion, innovation, and commitment have shaped Lifestyle Communities into a haven for those seeking a purposeful and joyful way of living. Managing director and Cofounder James Kelly shares, “Our homeowners are the heartbeat of our community. From day one, our mission has been clear: to be a ‘business for purpose’ that enriches lives and fosters meaningful connections.”

“We set out to create a different experience for downsizers, to offer a space that strikes the perfect balance between connection and privacy, independence, and activity. With a clearly defined purpose and a steadfast commitment to this goal, 20 years later, we’re proud to say that we still lead the market in our product offering.”

ELEVATE YOUR LIFESTYLE

Enter a world of beautifully designed, lowmaintenance homes surrounded by state-ofthe-art amenities. The Clubhouse is the pulsation hub of the communities and will become your home away from home. It’s a sophisticat-

ed arena of leisure, social mingling, and wellness designed to make every moment a cherished memory. Community facilities include a fully equipped gym, croquet or pickleball court, a dog wash, games room, private cinema, heated indoor and outdoor pools, a workshop, shared electric cars and a fishing boat available at coastal communities. You can join friends for a delightful lunch, break a sweat in the gym, or unwind by the pool.

CONSTANT EVOLUTION, TIMELESS

EXCELLENCE

With over 25 communities across Victoria, Lifestyle Communities sets itself apart with its unwavering long-term commitment to looking after its communities. They’re not just building communities; they’re nurturing them for the long haul.

“We reimagine, revitalise, and reinvent, en-

suring that each community is aligned with our pursuit of excellence. Lifestyle Brookfield, our inaugural community, stands tall as a testament to our enduring dedication,” Mr Kelly said.

HOLIDAY YOUR WAY

Fuelled by passion, the dedicated Lifestyle team are constantly striving to exceed expectations and create unforgettable experiences for their homeowners. They were proud to recently launch Club Lifestyle at Lifestyle Bellarine, which offers free seaside escapes to all Lifestyle Communities homeowners across Victoria. Homeowners can choose to stay in a cosy villa, bring their caravan down and enjoy one of the premium-powered caravan sites, or embark on a road trip in a fully equipped Lifestyle Motorhome.

IT’S A LIFESTYLE REVOLUTION!

For those yearning for a lifestyle that screams ‘cool’, a home that wraps you in luxury, recreation, and conscientious living, then Lifestyle Communities is calling your name. It’s not just a community, it’s a vibe where ‘unlimited’ is so much more than just a word – it’s a lifestyle! For more information, visit lifestylecommunities.com.au

The Lifestyle Communities team are leaders in community living.

Transport blitz on tour

Cardinia and Casey locals are encouraged to learn about improvements coming to the local transport network and milestones on infrastructure projects withVictoria’s Big Build team visiting the Casey Kids Carnival on Saturday 6 April.

The sold-out event is running from noon to 5pm at the Old Cheese Factory in Berwick, including free rides, free face painting, a petting zoo, a reptile encounter, a butterfly enclosure, music and craft workshops and mini golf, as well as entertainment and food.

The Big Build stand will be hosting free and transport-focused activities including mini diggers, building blocks, paper trains, colouring and show bags.

Teams from the Level Crossing Removal Project, Major Road Projects Victoria and the Metro Tunnel will be on hand to answer questions about current and planned changes to the road and rail network in the area and planned disruptions.

The teams will reach a major milestone next year, when the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines will become level crossing free, with boom gates recently removed at Camms Road in Cranbourne and Webb Street in Narre Warren, one year ahead of schedule.

Opened last week, the new Narre Warren station includes two platforms with new stairwells and lift access, an air-conditioned waiting room, landscaped forecourt with seating, and improved pedestrian connections to Narre Warren village.

Pakenham’s new 2.5-kilometre rail bridge is also taking shape, with level crossings at McGregor Road, Main Street and Racecourse Road being removed to make way for the bridge and two new stations at Pakenham and East Pakenham, with rail track and ballast now laid along the elevated rail line.

Work will continue this year to build a new plaza and community open space, landscaping, and 400 new and upgraded car parks for Cranbourne Station, and modern pedestrian and cyclist connections will also be added.

On the roads, major construction of the Hall Road Upgrade finished nine months ahead of

The work also includes activity zones under the elevated rail line at Pakenham, with the concrete piers currently being painted a bright blue to indicate the active areas in the open space; the exercise area, the playground, and the basketball court.

Connecting over a meal

City of Casey Community Meals Subsidy Program opened on Monday 1 April to support people to stay healthy and thrive as they age, as well as create opportunities to connect and celebrate culture and diversity.

The program provides funding to local community groups to provide healthy and nutritious meals at their centre for Casey’s vulnerable or isolated older residents.

The program is funded via the Commonwealth Government Home Support Programme (CHSP) and the City of Casey and will provide much-needed social opportunities for residents aged 65 and over and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged over 50.

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said council had provided funding to community groups for many years, subsidising them for centre-based meals in a social setting.

“Social meals greatly benefit the community as they help reduce isolation and loneliness and encourage participation in events and programs,” she said.

“I encourage new and existing groups to apply for the grants, including cultural, community, faith and seniors’ groups and organisations,

LGBTIQA + groups, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups.”

Hallam Turkish Seniors and the Hungarian Senior Citizens Club have received funding via previous rounds of the Community Meals Subsidy Program.

“The meal subsidy from council helps us keep costs low for our members and to serve a larger variety of meals,” committee member of Hallam Turkish Seniors, Sebahat said.

“The subsidy helps to keep the club affordable and accessible for people to come, connect with their community and their culture, and enjoy a nice hot meal for next to no cost,” vice president and treasurer of Hungarian Senior Citizens Club, Agnus said.

To assist community groups with their application, a drop-in session will be held on Tuesday 7 May between 9.30am and 4.30pm in the Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri rooms at Bunjil Place, NarreWarren.

Applications close on Friday 31 May.

To find out more about the drop-in session, application process and to submit an application, please visit the Meals Subsidy Program web page, contact 9705 5444, or email mealservices@casey.vic.gov.au

schedule to complement the recent development of Lathams Road and the Ballarto Road and Cranbourne-Frankston Road intersections withWestern Port Highway.

Victoria’s Big Build is also creating extra lanes, upgrading intersections and building new walking and cycling paths on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road.

Work is now underway to upgrade the Camms Road leg of the intersection, with Camms Road closed between Hotham Street and NarreWarren-Cranbourne Road until mid2024.

With work also progressing to build the northern side of the Cameron Street and Berwick-Cranbourne Road intersection, Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road will also be closed between New Holland Drive and BerwickCranbourne Road.

Planning changes loom

By Ethan Benedicto

The Planning Scheme Amendment C284 could see some changes to the current Casey Planning Scheme following the most recent council meeting on 19 March.

Amendment C284 proposes to change the Casey Planning Scheme to meet the State Government’s Smart Planning requirements and to implement a significant body of strategic work adopted by the council.

In addition, the amendment also implements recommendations from recent Planning Scheme Reviews and corrects minor anomalies and errors in the scheme.

Furthermore, the changes would improve the current scheme’s usability and efficiency, therefore enabling better land use decisions.

Initially, the amendment was exhibited for over six weeks from 19 October 2023, with submissions closing on 1 December 2023.

In that timeframe, 28 submissions were received which included two late submissions.

Of these submissions, 23 of them requested for changes to be made to the exhibited provisions.

To be more specific, several submitters requested that the amendment include a greater requirement for the planting of canopy trees, in relation to the general theme of the inconsistency between approved Precinct Structure Plans – PSPs –and Framework Plans.

The other most common objection revolved around matters that were beyond the scope of the amendment.

To be precise, several submitters requested changes to the planning scheme such as rezoning of land or the amendment zone (overlay boundaries), changes to the Urban Growth Boundary and the inclusion of new or updated policies that have not been prepared or adopted by the council.

Moving forward, the council has three statutory options in order to address the public submissions.

The first option is to change the amendment to satisfy a submitter or to abandon a part or all of the amendment.

However, the most appropriate course of action discussed in the agenda was to request that the Minister for Planning appoint an independent planning panel in order to consider all of the submissions.

Amendment C284 aims to replace the Municipal Strategic Statement – MSS – and Local Planning Policies in the Casey Planning Scheme with a new Municipal Planning Strategy (MPS).

In addition to correcting the mentioned errors and anomalies, it also introduces new local policies within the Planning Policy Framework or PPF.

Casey Council approved the preparation of Amendment C284 in September 2022, with the Minister of Planning authorising its preparation in May 2023.

If the independent planning panel were to go forth, their report would then be considered at a future council meeting, where the council can decide where to adopt the amendment – with or without changes –or to abandon it.

The proposed amendment attracted 28 submissions. 238145

City of Casey Community Meals Subsidy Program applications opened on Monday 1 April. Picture: SUPPLIED

The progress on Berwick-Cranbourne Road and Narre Warren Cranbourne Road. Picture: SUPPLIED

More structure can help

Vacation care, sports programs, or performing arts – whatever your child’s interests, researchers say that adding structure to the school holiday is a great way to keep kids healthy and active over the break.

In the first Australian study of its kind, University of South Australia researchers found that when primary school children are on holidays, they’re less active, more likely to be on screens, and tend to have a worse diet than during the school term.

Assessing responses for 358 primary school students (Grade 4 and 5), researchers found that on holidays, children were likely to be 12 minutes less active each day, 27 minutes more sedentary, and have more than an hour extra of screen time.

During the school holidays, children (aged 9-10) spent 39 per cent more time using screens than during the school year.

UniSA researcher Dr Amanda Watson said children exercise less and eat more unhealthy food during the holidays, which may contribute to accelerated weight gain and poor health.

“Everyone is excited when school holidays come around – it’s a break from the daily routine, classrooms, and getting ready on time –but despite the obvious benefits, it can have some setback for kids,” Dr Watson said last year.

“Our study shows that during school holidays, children are more likely to display unhealthy behaviours, such as being less active, spending more time sitting, eating more junk food, and (perhaps unsurprisingly) watching a whole lot more TV or screens.

“Of course, it is important for children to get some quality downtime over the school break, but it’s equally important that they stay active and get enough exercise.

“If we add more structure to children’s days in the holidays – regular activities, planned lunch and snack breaks, as well as a limit on the amount of screen time kids have – we could encourage healthier behaviours to benefit them now and in the future.”

In Australia, one in four children (25 per cent) are overweight or obese, contributing to poorer health and wellbeing, as well as worse performance at school.

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Senior researcher UniSA’s Professor Carol Maher said that screen time is one of the biggest risk factors for children’s inactivity.

“Managing screen time is a challenge for many parents, and not only in the holidays,” Prof Maher said.

“Being inactive for extended periods, either watching TV or playing games, is not good for anyone’s health, not the least children.

“So, when research shows us that even one extra hour of screen time a day corresponds with a 13 per cent increased risk of obesity, it is time to rethink computer time.

“Everyone can benefit from being more active. These holidays could be just what you need to make more positive changes to you and your children’s activity levels, overall wellbeing, and health.”

Graduate over the moon

By Emma Xerri

Now at the Melbourne Museum, the annual Top Designs exhibition, in a continuing partnership with the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA), has 87 creations on display this year, carefully selected from a highly talented pool of more than 1000 VCE applicants.

Among the young artists on display is Waverley Christian College graduate Joshua Roberts, whose piece titled the MOON Project responds to a need for contemporary design and exhibition spaces for emerging designers and artists.

“My piece is a space for young designers and creators to be able to thrive in their work and their practice, and a spot to exhibit their works,” he said.

“I started off with a love for art galleries and reflecting on how fun it is to visit different exhibitions and the sense of calmness it gives me.

“I was also thinking of my own struggles in having access to big spaces where I could do my work and be productive. So, the piece came from a combination of those two needs.”

Having only previously dabbled in architecture through his visual communication studies, the MOON Project served as Joshua’s first endeavour into model building.

“I had never done anything like this before,” he added.

“I’d done vis com projects in architecture, but I’d never built models. I’d never done the physical stuff. So, that was a challenge - in learning all the new methods and how to deal with the new materials and equipment - but also really exciting to see my project realised.

“There were a few times where I was a bit hard on myself for not being able to get things right the first time, because I’m very much a perfectionist.

“But I learnt to just be confident in myself

and know that mistakes are part of the process.”

And Joshua’s risks more than paid off.

Now a master in manipulating wood veneer, plastic and spray paint, Joshua is furthering his architectural passions at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), and he hopes his work can serve as an inspiration for current and future VCE students hoping to earn a spot in the exhibition, just like he was inspired by

those before him.

“One of my friend’s [work] was exhibited in 2020, so to know that they had done it was really cool because it made me realise that it was something that was achievable.

“There’s 1000 applications and it’s an exhibition of only 87 people, so I think it’s a really cool opportunity to have my work on display, and a huge honour to be surrounded by so many other insanely creative people.

“And having my piece in that exhibit space with all the other amazing works makes it look even better.

“I hope that students attending the exhibition can be inspired in what they can do in their ownVCE endeavours, and realise that the possibilities are endless.”

Top Designs is open to the public at the Melbourne Museum until Sunday 14 July.

Narre Warren train station opens doors to commuters

The Narre Warren station is now open, with the first trains gracing its new elevated platforms on the morning of Thursday 28 March.

After the removal of the level crossing at Webb Street in late 2023, Minister for Transport Infrastructure Danny Pearson said the station is ready to cater to roughly 1000 passengers a day.

“We’re transforming Melbourne’s booming southeast by delivering a level crossing free Pakenham line next year, making roads safer and less congested for thousands living along the corridor,“ he said.

The elevated station now houses an upgraded ticket office, with stair and lift access available on both platforms.

Additional lifts, a new air-conditioned room and some new toilet facilities are expected to be installed in the coming months.

For Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson, the new station is a big boon for locals, public transport goers and drivers passing throughWebb Street.

“The dangerous and congested Webb Street level crossing is gone for good and locals now have access to an elevated station in the heart of NarreWarrenVillage,” she said. Works will continue outside of the station,

with the project looking to add 672 new car parking spaces, as well as planting more than 300 new trees and 63,000 plants to revitalise the area’s green space.

Before the new station, the boom gates at Webb Street were down for 33 per cent of the morning peak, causing congestion for 13,200 vehicles every day, with an additional 19 near misses at the crossing since 2012.

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas said he was excited to see what the new station would bring to the area. “Narre Warren is the latest community to benefit from a new station, which will provide better connections for the local community and make public transport more accessible,“ he said.The level crossing is the 14th removed by the State Government on the Pakenham line, with more work underway on another eight to make the line boom gatefree by 2025.

These works also contribute to the new metro tunnel also set to open in 2025, which would see more services delivered in the Pakenham line and create a new, continuous line to the west in Sunbury.

As for crossing levels in Pakenham, works continue with a 2.5-kilometre rail bridge and two new stations being built and geared open later this year.

Joshua Roberts’ work is on show at the annual Top Designs exhibition.

Picture: NICOLE CLEARY, COURTESY OF THE VICTORIAN CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT AUTHORITY

Passengers emerging from new shelters and seats to board the train at Narre Warren Station.

With the tracks overhead, there is a reduced chance of congestion in the already busy Webb Street.

One of the first few trains to arrive at Narre Warren Station on the morning of Thursday 28 March.

Pictures: JEREMY VENOSTA

Call for parking solution

By Emma Xerri

Currently sharing their car park with the area’s other facilities, the Timbarra Community Centre is hoping measures can be put in place to safeguard some spots for their patrons, who are struggling to benefit from the centre’s many enriching services.

Located off Parkhill Drive, just next door to Monash Health, Windermere Family Services and Headstart Early Learning Centre, parking for Community Centre staff and patrons has been a consistent struggle, with insufficient spaces to currently accommodate those visiting them and the neighbouring facilities.

For centre manager Kim Peterson, this is especially concerning for the centre’s senior attendees, who use the activities provided as a “lifeline”.

“You might think it’s just a knitting group or a gardening group or whatever it may be, but this is a lifeline for a lot of people,” she said.

“We live in the City of Casey where we’re increasingly trying to support the ageing population, and look at what we can do to keep them interacting to support their longevity and wellbeing.

“Attending these groups could be the most significant part of their day, and if you’ve had to turn away because you couldn’t find accessible parking, then a little thing becomes a big thing.”

Unfortunately for these senior patrons, who look to the weekly activities as a much-needed social avenue, the inaccessible car park has meant many have been unable to return.

“If there’s overflow from the other facilities, they take up a lot of our car park too,” Ms Peterson added.

“So much so that by the time we’re ready to start some of our activities, there’s no substantial parking left for people.

“This has resulted, in the past, with some people not returning because the car park is too hard to access, which is a real shame.

“And it’s hard when you’re getting there at half past eight some days and there’s already no car parks.

“I do my best to get to the centre early to put out witches hats to provide some space for

our mobility-limited patrons, but it’s frustrating when you know people want to attend our services but are at stages of their life that will make doing so a struggle.

“The whole concept of a neighbourhood house is to create social inclusion.”

Regular knitting group attendee and carer, Monica, notes that in order for her to bring her client to the weekly knitting group, this often requires her parking three blocks away.

“I’m a carer for Victoria, and it’s very hard for her to walk three blocks to the centre,” she said.

“Otherwise I would have to drop her off and leave her here alone while I park, which is not very safe.

“Most of the people who come to these groups are older people with various health issues, so it would be nice if there were some signs around encouraging healthier patrons to leave the closer car parks for less abled people.

Or even if we could get permission to park on the grass, because we get fined if we do.

“Of course, people from other facilities have the right to park here, it’s not illegal. But they have to be more considerate.”

This sentiment was shared by fellow knitting group attendee Glynis, who proposes that seniors parking signage could be used as a potential solution.

“Maybe that would trigger their conscience,” she said.

But for Ms Peterson and the centre’s many attendees, there is no single path forward, rather an underlying hope that greater awareness will allow for some measures to be put in place.

“In a perfect world, we would extend the car park. However, I don’t think that’s likely,” she added.

“So the other option is timed parking, which I don’t think will make anyone happy. It

will never be the right amount of time for people, and it will be hard to monitor. And what if there are people who attend our facility and want to stay for more than one thing?

“Other facilities have set aside parking for their patrons, so maybe we could have some parks that are dedicated for neighbourhood house attendees.

“There must be a better way for us to work harmoniously.

“We want all services to be accommodated. We’re not just rattling our cages saying ‘it’s all about me’. I know there are parents who would struggle getting their kids toWindermere Family Services, same too with the kindergarten if you have parents trying to drop multiple kids off.

“The Berwick Neighbourhood Centre is for everyone. We’re not trying to upset anyone, we really just want to make it so that the community has a fair ability to get to these services and activities that we wish to provide.”

The car park is often full to the brim. 398855

Parking on the grass has become a must for some of the centre’s patrons. 398855

The gardening group provides a way to socialise and problem solve with likeminded locals. 398855

For people like Veronica, the inaccessible car park makes attending knitting group difficult. 398855

Hats off to uni graduates

By Emma Xerri

Federation University welcomed more than 300 new alumni last month, with two graduation ceremonies held at Bunjil Place on 27 March.

Coming together to celebrate their achievements were this year’s graduates and their loved ones, hearing from the university’s best and brightest, including graduate speaker Danielle Lewis who spoke of the importance of caffeine when overcoming academic obstacles, and urged her peers to “be fearless in the pursuit of [their] goals”.

And Danielle, who is the first in her family to graduate university, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Community and Human Services, has already made some of these goals a reality.

“As soon as my studies finished I moved into a job, so I’m working in the field already and I’m pretty excited to be pursuing my career and furthering myself,” Danielle said.

“I’m already working with a lot of my friends, so it’s really exciting to be moving into the next stage of our lives together.

“And being asked to give the speech on behalf of the graduates was incredible.

“I was super nervous, but so glad that I

New park in Clyde North

A brand-new neighbourhood park has opened within the fast-growing Smiths Lane community in Clyde North.

Located on 35 Burnbank Parade, Lacey Park is the third park to open within Smiths Lane by property group Mirvac.

It joins the popular Banjo Park and Tilion Park, providing residents and the wider community with opportunities to gather, connect, play, and explore.

Inspired by the native Lace Monitor Goanna, Lacey Park is approximately 8000 square metres and features adventure opportunities for all ages.

It includes a sandpit and sand play table, play hut, ropes course, climbing structure, swings, trampoline, slide, large kick-about lawn, and undercover barbecue areas and seating.

did it.”

Working in community services, Danielle has embraced what the university’s vice-chancellor referred to as “Federation’s purpose of transforming lives and shaping communities,” much like IT graduate Amy-Marie Patsalis, whose newfound passion for data is sure to see her navigating the ever-changing tech world in no time.

“It’s surreal. It hasn’t hit me yet that I’ve graduated,” she said.

“But now I’m definitely on the lookout for work that is IT related.

“Because of my degree, I’ve found an inter-

est in data, which I would not have expected, especially because my whole mindset at the start of my degree was around game development.

“Now, I know what jobs to look for, and I’m more experienced and more skilled.”

With passion and a keen sense of what they want to achieve, each of these students is sure to live up to the lyrics performed by former students Lachlan and Perry, who sang “we’re the movers and we’re the shapers; we’re the names in tomorrow’s papers”.

And as of now, the latter is already true.

By Emma Xerri

Oakgrove Community Centre is once again opening their doors for a celebration of community pride and collaboration.

Running from 11am to 2pm on 12 April, the Community Expo will shine a light on the many services provided by the not-forprofit organisation and beyond, placing particular emphasis on offerings from the City of Casey and other essential service providers.

“This event is much more than just a gathering,” Oakgrove’s Anu Ravindernath said.

“It’s a celebration of community resilience, resourcefulness, and mutual support.

“Attendees can expect a dynamic showcase of services and resources designed to enhance the quality of life for residents of all ages and backgrounds.

“Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this is your chance to discover the heart of Oakgrove and all the services it has to offer.”

Representatives from the City of Casey will be in attendance, providing information and assistance on various municipal services, including waste management, community programs, and recreational facilities.

And the expo will also serve as an opportunity for locals to discover the wealth of resources offered by organisations, non-profits, and businesses within their community, from healthcare providers to educational institutions, social services and cultural associations.

“The Community expo Event is a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines Oakgrove,” Ms Ravindernath said.

“By bringing together residents, service providers, and local stakeholders under one roof, the event fosters connections and strengthens the fabric of the community.

“It’s an opportunity for neighbours to come together, share ideas, and work towards common goals that benefit everyone.”

In catering to community members of all interests and ages, the day will also boast certain crowd favourites with a jumping castle and face painting.

Various sports activities will also be on offer for the budding athletes and sports enthusiasts, from friendly matches of soccer and basketball to relay races and obstacle courses.

The expo will also feature a 360 Bus, equipped with interactive games, arts and crafts activities, and comfortable seating areas.

The Oakgrove events have always been a great opportunity for residents to gather. 399173

Amy-Marie Patsalis and Danielle Lewis. 397455

Pictures: GARY SISSONSThe Australian Anthem and the Academics. 397455

Kids playing in newly-opened Lacey Park. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Lacey Park is now open.

Students back food parcels

Students from Waverley Christian College mustered a generous donation of roughly 1100 individual items for the Berwick Food Pantry which was collected on Wednesday 27 March.

The initiative for the donation began when head of campus Mark Crnkovic expressed the aspiration for the college to contribute to the local Casey community.

Kathy Scott, campus student chaplain then reached out to Michelle Gould, head of the Berwick chapter for the Food Pantry to organise an in-school donation campaign.

“Michelle and her team tirelessly provide nourishment to numerous families in need, distributing essential food parcels throughout the region,” Ms Scott said.

“During our conversation, Michelle outlined the 12 most crucial items urgently re-

quired by the pantry.

“With this information in hand, our student leaders enthusiastically rallied their peers, initiating a spirited competition among year lev-

els to collect the items,” she said.

Of what was included in the donations were buckets of two-minute noodles, canned goods, frozen foods and pasta sauce jars among many

The Berwick Food Pantry has been providing free material aid for local families in need since 2012, with donations from the public such as Waverley Christian College bolstering their capabilities.

On the day of the pick-up, the pantry organised a trailer to transport the collected goods, where photos for memorabilia and commemoration were taken of the students, teachers and representatives from the Food Pantry.

For Ms Scott, her peers and the students, the college “is committed to a recurring initiative of supporting various community care endeavours within the City of Casey each term”.

“Together, we aim to make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing hardship within our community,” Ms Scott said.

others.

From left to right: Rebekah Matthew, Sarah Michael, Jonathan Wijaya, Dani Noy, Tirzah George, Abraham Cheng, Zara Nayagam, Liliana Zeng, Kiarah De Silva, Kathy Scott, Dylan Rodrigo, Mark Crnkovic, Shannara Fernando, Matthew Daniels and Michelle Gould. 397851

Students Zara Nayagam and Abraham Cheng next to some of the food that had been loaded on the trailer. 397851 Picture: GARY SISSONS Michelle Gould (left) from the Berwick Food Pantry thanked the students and teachers. 397851

Drill gives a taste of reality

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

More than 70 SES members, lifesavers, police, firefighters and a search dog took part in a massive training exercise on Patterson River, Carrum on 18 March.

Without prior knowledge, they were plunged into a fictional scenario of 12 people being swept by stormwater rapids under Wells Road bridge.

Chelsea SES spokesperson Phil Wall said the aim was to make the exercise as realistic as possible.

“None of the guys knew the scenario until they got there. It was a bit like two (real-life) events in the past two years where we’ve had to rescue people out of there.”

The members teamed together to find and rescue people – represented by dummies –who had been washed down the river, some as far as the mouth and beach.

Some had made it themselves onto the banks, others picked out of the water including two fatalities.

Victoria Police, Life Saving Victoria, Edithvale CFA, Search and Rescue Dogs Australia and members of Chelsea, Greater Dandenong Pakenham, Monash and Narre Warren SES units were involved.

During the response, a search dog sniffed along the river bank, and SES members were in boats towards the top of the river and rescued dummies out of the water.

Meanwhile, lifesavers responded to ‘casualties’ on the beach, transporting them on jet skis and rigid inflatable boats to the SES’s multi-casualty tent.

An LSV drone was also taken into the sky to scan the scene.

Meanwhile in the Edithvale CFA Mobile Command Vehicle, police, SES and CFA officers were coordinating the response.

Chelsea SES deputy controller for training Cameron Milner meticulously planned the scenario for six months.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see everyone enjoy the night and come away with new lessons, insights and experiences.

“It was also great to have so many senior leaders from the different emergency services there to observe the exercises first hand.”

Some of them included VICSES Chief Officer Tim Wiebusch as well as senior police officers from Chelsea and Moordialloc police.

For some of the newer SES volunteers, it was their first time at such a major scenario. All of the members felt “chuffed” by the end of the night, Wall said.

“When you have these training events, there’s an air of excitement.

“And if there’s anything we have to learn from the situation, it’s better to do so with a dummy.”

A dummy line-up on the banks of the Patterson River. 398305

A rescued dummy is carried into the SES multi-casualty tent. 398305

Lifesavers bringing one of the dummies to shore. 398305 Pictures: GARY SISSONS SES and LSV members carry a casualty ashore. 398305

A Life Saving Victoria member on a jet ski. 398305

Victoria searchers on the water. 398305

Victoria. 398305

Emergency crews scan the mocked-up rescue on Patterson River. 398305

Scanning the river for casualties. 398305

A surf rescue boat transported dummies from the beach to the river bank triage area. 398305

A casualty arrives from the beach to the emergency triage area. 398305

Positively influencing sales

TAKING CARE

It is often said that ‘people do business with those that they know, like and trust’ and this is indeed true, but what happens if you are trying to do business with someone that you don’t know? Does that mean that there is no possibility of a sale? Of course this can’t be correct, but it will certainly be harder to get someone to purchase in this case so let’s see how this might be achieved in this event.

Personality profiling has become increasingly popular over the years as the tools in this space mature and its relevance to business more and more established. A personality profile is created through an assessment of an individual by a series of questions that provide an insight into their behavioural preferences and hence provides an indication of how they are likely to interact with the world. There are many different instruments in this space (DiSC and Myers-Briggs being two of the most common) and nearly all are based on the theory of Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP). These tools look at personality from a range of perspectives, e.g. introvert vs extrovert, detailoriented vs big-picture etc and determines where a person would (prefer to) sit on such spectra, i.e. we are all introverted or extroverted to some extent, few people are completely introverted or completely extroverted. One too that I find particularly practical is based around the following four personality styles:

· Action-oriented – people who focus on results, get things done and typically like to be leaders. They love a challenge and are practi-

cal but can get impatient with little time for chit-chat.

· Process-oriented – people who prefer structure, order, rules and a prescribed way of doing things. These people love facts and data but can find it hard to see new ways of doing things.

· People-oriented – relationships, teamwork and communication all matter to these people who strive for harmony. For these people, the journey is more important than the destination.

· Ideas-oriented – these people are fascinated by possibilities and concepts. They love to invent and experiment but can be easily distracted and usually not very well organised. As noted above, nearly all of us will have elements of the above to varying degrees, but typically there will be one or two styles which

will be more pronounced. It should also be clear that a particular style is more likely to find it difficult to engage with another style, for example Action-oriented people love to get straight to the point and may well get frustrated by other styles that prefer to get there by potentially slower routes. Similarly Process-oriented people may well get annoyed by Ideas-oriented people who, from their perspective, seem to wander off the point and may be seen as unrealistic.

However, if it were possible to get a sense of the predominant style(s) of another person, then the potential for you to influence that person would go up since you would know what sort of communication style is likely to have the best chance of success.

And so back to sales. It should be clear that you greatly enhance your prospect of making

a sale if you are able to converse using the preferred style of the other person. For example, it is well worth an Action-oriented salesperson taking the time to build the rapport and relationship with a People-oriented person before even discussing the prospective sale. Often there will be many clues that will betray an individual’s preferred style(s): the words that they use, the topics they like to discuss and even how their office is laid out (e.g. a Processoriented person will have a clean, neat and tidy desk whereas an Ideas-oriented person may well have an untidy desk with papers and notes scribbled everywhere). Taking the time to understand these may well pay off in a big way.

Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au

It should be clear that you greatly enhance your prospect of making a sale if you are able to converse using the preferred style of the other person, Ian Ash reports this week. Picture: PATRICK TOMASSO ON UNSPLASH

Tell us about yourself and your role at Sue’s Roo Rescue!

I have been rescuing kangaroos for 18 years and running a wildlife shelter dedicated to rehabilitating joeys for six years.

What do you love the most about running

Sue’s Roo Rescue?

Releasing an orphaned joey back into the wild after I have raised it for 14 months.

What is your most memorable moment from your current role?

My first joey, Jack.

If you were an animal, what animal would you be?

The obvious choice would be a kangaroo, but they have such a hard time, so I would choose an eagle.

What were you like as a kid?

I was quiet and always loved animals. What event, past or present, would you like to witness?

I would go back to before 1920 to see thylacines and try to stop people from hunting them to extinction.

Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

My mum, my four grandparents and my friend Marianne, who are all no longer with us. What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Strong, caring, loyal.

What would you do on your perfect day off? Sleep.

Where is your happy place?

At home.

If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?

Some sort of cake.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Somewhere sunny - the Maldives would be lovely!

THREE … ways to use up your chocolateEaster

1 Add them to your baking

Chocolate is the perfect addition to almost every sweet treat, so what better way to get through your many milk chocolate eggs than through baking? Whether it’s homemade hot cross buns, chocolate chip cookies or a chocolate tart, working your Easter chocolates into your dishes is a great way to repurpose.

Make hot chocolate

2

There is nothing worse than a bland hot chocolate, and chocolate eggs are a surefire way to avoid that. Simply grab your favourite mug and pour your hot milk of choice over pieces of Easter chocolate for a perfect ‘chocolatey’ beverage.

3 Donate!

While your Easter baskets might be full, others may have gone without. Reach out to your local soup kitchens and food support groups to see if your bunnies would make a welcome addition to their grocery supplies.

Sue Johnston. 398283

WHAT’S ON

Casey Cardinia Heritage Festival

Community members across Casey and Cardinia are invited to come along to the 2024 Casey Cardinia Heritage Festival. This free event will feature various information stalls from local historical community groups, book sales, live music, and entertainment for all.

A Devonshire tea will also be available for purchase for $2.50.

This event is proudly delivered by Connected Libraries and Myli (My Community Library) and supported by the City of Casey.

· 10am to 2pm, Sunday 21 April, Berwick Senior Citizens Centre Yakkerboo Festival

Kicking off on Saturday 20 April, with a carnival at amusement ride prices. The event will also feature an open mic competition and a spectacular firework display to close out the evening.

On Sunday 21 April, the family festival gets into full swing, commencing with the parade at 10am.

From 11am to 4pm there will be unlimited rides for all ages, with the purchase of a $15 wrist band, as well as a line up of local talent to entertain on stage.

· Saturday and Sunday, 20 and 21 April.

Holi ‘The Festival of Colours’ in Lynbrook

The Lynbrook Residents Association is very proud to present Lynbrook’s most colourful event.

Free entry - all welcome.

Plain white clothing shows the colour best (plain black also works well.) Please note: Colour may not fully wash out so don’t wear your best threads. Bags of colour (100g) $3 each.

There will be about 20 market stalls at this event too! Come have some retail therapy with us and support local small businesses.

· The Holi Festival of Colours is on Saturday 27 April, 12pm to 5.30pm.

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.

Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre

If you are over 55 years old, newly retired, or new to the Casey area and looking for something to do, come and join us.

Narre Warren Seniors is a friendly Club and we can offer you many activities. Our main Club day is on Wednesdays from 9.30am to 3pm.

On the first Wednesday of the month we enjoy socialising with our members and, on the next three (3) Wednesdays we have live entertainment wherein you can do some line-dancing if you wish and enjoy an afternoon cup of tea.

There are also weekly activities on other days of the week, which include the Garden Group Club, Indoor Carpet Bowls, Line Dancing, Table Tennis, friendly Card games, and a Gentle Exercise class.

· We are located at 192-196 Centre Road near the Narre Warren Station. Phone us at 9704 0015 or 0426 736 467 or email us at: narrewarrenseniors@gmail.com for more information

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 on 9528 2977/1800 558 268.

Balla Balla Community Centre

The centre is filled with activities in the coming weeks, catering to both children and adults.

Morning Melodies – running on 9 April at

10.30am, the centre’s entertainers will be singing for the audience, joined with some tea, scones, creams and jam and some friends to make along the way.

Introduction to creative writing – facilitated by local author Rod Grigson, the class will be held every Friday for eight weeks, beginning Term 2 and will prepare participants with the inspiration and skills to write their own stories.

Citizenship training – Held on Wednesdays, the eight-week course will cover all topics included in the Australian Citizenship test.

Playgroups – Balla Balla Bubs for 0-12 months will be held on Wednesday mornings and encourage little ones to explore tummy time, sensory play, singing and also reading with your baby.

For playgroups 1-4 it also includes singing,dancing, sensory play, craft activities and story time. Introduction to mindfulness meditation – Held on Monday evenings, this four-week meditation course will explore the topics of mindfulness, instructions and meditation practice, mindfulness of breath and body, the heart and being fully human and mindfulness of emotions.

· Bookings are essential for all of the mentioned activities and events and can be done over the phone at 5990 0900 or online at ballaballa.com.au/special-interest

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

Are you newly retired or new to the area or just wanting to enjoy your freedom or expand your social 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 semi-retired 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. ome 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.

Weekly badminton

Badminton for ladies or retired.

All welcome.

· Mondays 7pm-9pm and Wednesdays 12pm2.30pm at Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley Road Recreation Reserve; $5.

Cranbourne bouyed by its young talent

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Southern Football Netball League (SFNL) Division 1 club Cranbourne is confident in its emerging talent ahead of 2024.

The absence of an under-19s side last year limited a clear wave of replacements for departed experienced best 22 players Chris Ramac, Anthony Fischer, and Ben Pola, alongside goal kickers Marc Holt and Kirk Dickson in the offseason.

But with the Eagles set to field an under-19s side in 2024 and SFNL Academy members Ky Williams and Brad Frater headlining a strong, young contingent, coach Steve O’Brien has been “pleasantly surprised” by what they’ve shown.

“We still think we have good depth to cover us in the seniors so that will be put to the test throughout the season,” O’Brien said.

“We think we’ve found some good young kids throughout preseason which obviously helps us.

“KyWilliams is one who you can see after 12 months in our system, how much that has improved him - he looks a totally different player.

“He’ll be an inside midfielder - we spent some time last year educating him on other roles and why he’s playing in other roles: because it’s a strong midfield to crack into.

“He accepted that last year and this year he’s played pretty much as an inside-midfielder all preseason.

“We think there will be opportunities for players if they’re willing to work hard and play different roles.”

The departures of Holt and Dickson are set to especially pinch, the pair kicking 114 goals last season – both in the top five goal kickers in the competition.

Having been unable to secure a noted big forward to replace the pair, the club will be reliant on incumbents to step up, with rucks Jake Stephens and Michael Boland possibly set to spend more time forward.

The ball movement is also bound to change given the absence of Holt’s imposing contested marking.

“You can’t replace Marc Holt so we’ve had to get our heads around the fact that when‘Holty’ was there, if you were under pressure, you could just bang the thing in and let him do the rest where we can’t do that now,” O’Brien said.

“It might mean we have to be a little bit smarter or more patient and other times we have to get more speed on the ball and get it in a bit quicker.

“’Dicko’s’ a fantastic player as well and hard to replace but it opens up opportunity for others to try a new skillset and compete.

“We think as long as we compete, we’ll be half a chance.

“We’ve tried a few different guys to give ourselves a few options and something we’ve never had previously is that flexibility.

“We’re big on that this year, being really flexible up forward.

“We’ve tried a few different setups and systems.

“We might go smaller and go for speed or throw some other big boys down there and have them competing.”

As previously reported by Star News, Zak Roscoe and Dylan Cavalot will co-skipper the side this year.

“(Dylan’s) a natural leader of men and when you watch him play, he’s absolute warrior,” O’Brien said.

“Where Zak has the class and the skill, ‘Cav’ balances it off.

“He’s one of the hardest players you’ll ever come across and his willingness to buy into the team plan is second to none and he provides vocal leadership as well.”

Cranbourne’s season kicks-off on Saturday with a mouth-watering grand final rematch against Cheltenham at Jack Barker Oval. Ins: Tyler Finn, Josh Cochrane.

Outs: Ben Pola, Cal Pola, Kirk Dickson, Anthony Fischer, Chris Ramac, Marc Holt.

Panthers pounce on a trio of new recruits

By David Nagel

The dust has hardly settled on the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) Premier Division season but Devon Meadows is acting quick to ensure it takes the next step and plays finals cricket next year.

The Panthers finished fifth in 2023/24 after earning promotion from District Division last season.

With skipper Lucas Ligt on fire, they were top four heading into Christmas but lost five straight games to fritter away their opportunity.

Ligt has signed on the dotted line with the Panthers once again, and will have three new faces to help his surge towards the top four.

Joining the club for the 2024/25 season are Rajind Dassanayake from Lang Lang, Zac Shepherd from Clyde and Ben Marsh from Parkdale United.

Dassanayake has a wealth of experience in the CCCA, being a former captain and coach at Lang Lang.

He is a very capable top-order bat and his off-spin bowling will complement the current attack.

Marsh is a leg spinner and fiery middle order bat who impressed the club with a cameo appearance at a training session.

“He trained one night for us during the season and turned heads with his leggies, bowling with good flight, drift, turn and bounce and will provide a genuine point of difference for our attack,” said Devon Meadows president Mick Floyd.

“Good leggies are hard to find and I think we’ve found a good one.

“He also looks very capable with the bat; very compact, and hits it well.”

Shepherd also impressed, particularly Floyd, when he made a sparkling century against the Panthers in round five of A Grade this season.

He made 111 not out, off 152 balls, showing good composure and an array of shots that will give him every opportunity to succeed at the top level.

His glovework is also tidy and he looks the

Cannons start 2024 with a win

By Jonty Ralphsmith

The Casey Cannons Vic League One (VL1) women took out hockey’s Vic League Cup preseason final onThursday night with a 3-1 win over reigning VL1 champions Yarra Valley.

It followed victories over well-credentialed opponents PEGS, Brunswick and Mornington to reach the summit.

Yarra Valley started quickly and scored in the 3rd minute, and could have added a second shortly thereafter if not for a crucial save by ‘keeper Sarah Sutton-McLellan.

Casey struck back four minutes later with a short corner goal to Mikaela Davis, before the game settled into a rhythm.

With the scores deadlocked at the main break following an even first half, the Cannons came out firing in the second half.

Casey dominated territory, generating all six scoring shots of the third quarter, but went unrewarded on the scoreboard.

It made for a tense start to the final quarter, with Casey ultimately breaking the drought after Sam Wagg converted from a second consecutive short corner in the 55th minute.

Casey maintained the ascendancy for the rest of the night, with a 62ndminute goal opening up breathing space late in the contest and showcasing the type of ball movement the team is capable of.

Emma Harris and Jemma McLauchlan linked up to transition the ball quickly and effectively, with Mikayla McDonald in the perfect position to convert the well-executed cross.

Casey had to see off two late short corners to Yarra Valley to secure the statement victory.

Defenders Michaela Bullock and Rebecca Wagg led a strong effort to see the team to victory.

ideal replacement forWill Halton if the youngster decides to try his hand at Casey SouthMelbourne.

“The three guys bring a varied skillset that will complement our current list, and their experience at different levels and different competitions will be a big asset to the coaching group,” Floyd said.

“More importantly, they’re good people who are keen to succeed at Devon Meadows, which further enhances our objective of not only being successful on the field, but also a place that people want to be part of off the field.”

“The girls have been fantastic with a preseason dedicated to improving fitness and developing a new game plan,” coach Andrew Harris said.

“Winning the final was a fitting result for all their hard work.”

As well as winning the Pennant title, the club secured $2000 in prize money.

It’s an excellent way to kick-start the year for the Cannons, who are expected to again be premiership threats in 2024.

Premiers: Back row (L-R) Leandra McLauchlan, Sarah Sutton-McLellan, Jenna McLachlan, April Picton, Andrew Harris (coach), Jessica Rowland, Aleisha Foot, Michaela Bullock, Sam Wagg, Kayla Joll, Charlotte Davis. Front (L-R): Mikayla McDonald, Aleisha Daly, Mikaela Davis, Tegan Hyland, Emma Harris, Rebecca Wagg. Picture: SUPPLIED

From left; Rajind Dassanayake, Ben Marsh and Zac Shepherd will bolster the depth of Devon Meadows in 2024/25. 398529 Picture: SUPPLIED

Cranbourne is optimistic it can cover some key losses. 350350

Picture: ROB CAREW

Ideal start for Sea Eagles

By David Nagel

Back-to-back champion Inverloch-Kongwak has begun an historic quest for three-consecutive premierships with a 44-34 victory over a new-look Cora Lynn on Saturday.

New coach Liza Burrows has big shoes to fill this season, with former coach Jarrad Walker umpiring Saturday’s game after two years of premiership success.

Both Burrows and Walker would have been impressed with the first-up performance, with the Sea Eagles beginning well.

With Millie Sadler (GK) and skipper Renee Pilkington (GD) keeping things tight at the defensive end of the court, the Sea Eagles skipped out to a 10-7 lead at quarter time.

The margin blew out to 20-12 at the halfway point of the contest with familiar faces such as Kelsey Buxton (C), Lanni Pryor (WA) and Asha Boyd (WD) producing some fantastic work through the midcourt.

But Cora Lynn is chock-full of new faces this season and proved it will be no pushover with a strong second-half performance.

The Cobras matched the Sea Eagles with a 13-all third term, and were tough to shake off in the last; going down by only two.

There were plenty of positives for coach Lou Walsh to take away; with the Cobras sure to improve even further as their synergy continues to build.

Brooke Abu-Jaber (GS) was fantastic for the Cobras in the third term, scoring 11 of their 13 goals, while Annabel Sheppard (GD) joined the returning Danielle Cameron (GK) in an impressive defensive display.

Skipper Gemma Stacey (GS) gave great instruction from the attacking ring, while Alannah (C and GA) and Ellie Keen (C and WA) showed they will be versatile assets for Walsh and coaching team this year.

Lexi Schade (WA) and Paige Brooks-Mac-

MIllan (WD) were others to show promising signs for the visitors; who have two weeks to prepare for a home game against TooradinDalmore.

Inverloch will make the long trip to Warragul to take on the Dusties.

Phillip Island is also on the board after winning all four quarters on its way to a 48-37 win over a vastly-improved Warragul Industrials. The Bulldogs looked terrific in the first half, opening up a 25-16 lead with Christie Edwards (C) and Ella Duggan (GA) providing starshooter Lily Mewett (GS) with plenty of scoring opportunity.

The Dusties really tightened things up in

Misses costly for wayward Demons against Footscray

By Marcus Uhe

Inaccuracy in front of goal proved disastrous for the Casey Demons in their 14-point loss to Footscray at home in round two of the VFL on Saturday afternoon.

The Demons failed to convert on four consecutive shots on goal in the second quarter, and six in the third quarter, including the final five of the term, and while the Bulldogs weren’t much better, their two goals and three behinds in the third term grew the margin from eight points at the half to 17 at the final change.

The Bulldogs then kicked two in the opening five minutes of play to push the lead to 30, before Casey fought back with four of the final five majors, the final score reading 15.9 99 to 12.13 85 in Footscray’s favour.

Six goals apiece in the opening term set the scene for a shootout with Josh Schache and Rory Lobb cast as the main characters in the battle.

Schache kicked two and Lobb three, whose height was quickly becoming an issue for the Casey defenders.

The Demons held an 18-point lead late in the opening term but conceded the next three as the visitors tied the scores at the first break.

Schache kicked his third to open the second term but the Demons then let four opportunities to grow the lead slip, kicking four consecutive behinds.

The Dogs had no such issues, kicking three goals on the bounce to retake the lead, before hitting the long break eight points ahead.

With mental demons already infiltrating the playing group from a wayward second term, the third quarter saw the concerns fester and spread in frustrating fashion as players blew chance after chance to reel the Bulldogs in.

Footscray, who humiliated the Demons to end their VFL campaign last season, took their opportunities, and ran away to an unassailable lead early in the fourth term, with Casey’s late fightback only in vain.

Demons’ captain Mitch White led the way

for the Demons with 28 touches and a goal, while newcomers Campbell Hustwaite and Leo Connolly continue to impress with 25 and 24 touches, respectively.

Schache dodged the inaccuracy bug with four-straight goals, but Matthew Jefferson (2.3) and Oliver Sestan (1.2) were among the main culprits.

Former Demon James Harmes was right at home at the familiar surrounds of Casey Fields, racking up 33 disposals and a goal for his new side.

An opening fortnight at home did not provide the start that the 2022 premiers would have envisaged, dropping two matches that could prove costly as the season wears on.

The AFL’s Gather Round results in a leaguewide VFL bye next week before the Demons head to Port Melbourne with an opportunity to kick-start their season on 13 April.

the second half, with Brooke Weatherhead (GD) moving from midcourt to defence (GD), to help Natasha Green (GK) cope with her duties.

The Bulldogs won both quarters in the second half by one goal, in a positive sign of the Dusties’ competitiveness moving forward.

Anthea Bennett (GK) and Jaclyn Clark (GD) were rock-solid for the Bulldogs, while Holly Cheyne (WA) and Steph Warburton (WD) gave the Dusties great drive through the midcourt.

Things don’t get any easier for the Dusties, who host IK in round one on Saturday 13 April, while the Bulldogs head to Spencer Street to take on the Goon.

A great turnout of 48 members of the South West Gippsland Midweek Bowling Group turned up at San Remo to once again fight it out for team of the week.

It was also great to see a few new faces in attendance and we look forward to their continuing presence at all of the games.

The weather was mild to cool and the wind was little more than a breeze; perfect conditions for bowls.

Excellence was the order of the day as very few wayward shots were seen anywhere across the greens.

Thanks go to Gwen, Claire and Bobby for setting up in the morning as well as all their efforts in the kitchen cleaning up after all our efforts to mess it up (not on purpose).

And let’s not forget Haydn and Mick behind the bar keeping our thirsty members happy.

There was lots of laughter and banter on the green as usual.

It really is such a joy playing with such a friendly group each week.

This week’s lucky winners on 34 points were Steven Hickson (S), Michael Saunders (3), Karen Hickson (2) and Elaine Williams (L).

Runners up on a score of 32 were Gerry Dudink (S), Robyn Dahl (3), Mick Sheers (2) and Sonja Grant (L). Best One Game winners on a score of 23 were Michael Dady (S), Laurie Bell (3), Frank

D’Unienville (2) and Marites ‘Mae’ Soledad.

It was great to see Rob jumping in to help; he was not only standing in for John, who is still unwell, but also helped Peter with the teams and the scoring.

This week we will be meeting at Lang Lang to once again fight it out for team of the week.

We look forward to seeing the fine attendance figures repeated and hope to see everyone return.

Please be on site by 10am to allow enough time to prepare the teams.

Meanwhile, we wish all and sundry a really happy Easter with family and friends.

- Laurie Bell

Josh Schache kicked four goals for Casey in the Demons’ loss to Footscray on Saturday. 325648

Picture: ROB CAREW

Cora Lynn captain Gemma Stacey only has eyes for the ball against Inverloch-Kongwak on Saturday. 398177 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Dusties goaler Lara Beck gets her hands on the ball between Phillip Island defenders Sophie Gysberts and Lexi Walton in B Grade. 398176

New faces to drive Doves

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Southern

Football

Netball League Division 2 club Doveton is optimistic that a new-look midfield group can deliver success.

First-year coach and club stalwart Matt Stapleton has changed the on-ball dynamic, with incumbent ruck Dylan Chapman set to tap down to youngster Brodie Howie and recruits Matt Rogers and James Canty, alongside the classyWill Smith.

It’s a changed dynamic from the big-bodied tough players which propelled them to a preliminary final last year followed by a grand final loss in 2022.

“So far, in a short period of time, they’re (starting) to gel and that will progress throughout the year,” Stapleton said.

“Some of those guys going through there are going to add a bit of flair around the footy which will be good to watch for our supporters.

“Hopefully what you can see with the legspeed we’ll have is us moving the ball really efficiently.”

It’s a deviation from the more methodical style that the likes of Aaron Johns and Shannon Henwood led last year, with that slower build-up at times limiting their scoring, given their smaller forward-line.

Doveton averaged 70 points per game in 2023 – the fewest of any finalist.

The Doves have recruited big forward Matt Clarke, the former Noble Park Bull among several set to relieve pressure off marking small goal-kicker Cam Williamson, but Stapleton forecast a flexible role for Clarke.

“He’s got a tremendous ability to cover the ground,” Stapleton said.

“Whilst he will be spending a lot of time up forward, we might push him up the ground and utilise his running capacity on the wing at times.

“That was probably where we needed to add one more pillar in terms of another option up there.

“You bring him in as a pillar but he’s brought in so much more than a key target up forward – he drives our standards on the training track.”

Energetic mover Ricky Johnson has also been earmarked for a wing role by the coach following a breakthrough 2023.

Doveton’s most recent match against Emerald capped off a strong preseason and was the first hit-out on Robinson Reserve since August 2022.

“We see it as an asset to play on such a big ground so we have to make sure those nine home games count,” Stapleton said.

“I couldn’t have asked for much more from the group in their ability to adapt in a new way we’re going about training, some new t hings we’ll try on the field and overall application.

“It’s time to put the hard work into action.”

Doveton kicks off its campaign against

Keysborough at Robinson Reserve on Saturday.

Ins: Matt Clarke, James Canty, Hayden Spierings, Will Kerr, Joel Pritchett, Matt Rogers, Ben O’Loughlin, Lochie Convoy.

Outs: Matt Stapleton, Daniel Zajac, Troy Allan, Michael Cardamone, Aaron Johns.

Hanily and Duursma excel as Power down Stingrays

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Gippsland Power opened its 2024 Coates Talent League campaign with a win over Dandenong on Good Friday at Belvedere Reserve, winning 16.13 109 to 14.9 93 in a high-tempo, free-flowing day of football.

The visitors had a narrow lead for most of the day in a quick and hot game of footy, but players from both teams showcased their weapons.

In his first game for the season, Stingray Noah Mraz started excellently, winning several important contests in defensive 50 to prevent the visitors getting off to the hot start that they threatened to.

The Narre North Foxes junior and AFL Academy representative got his hands to plenty of aerial contests in defensive 50 and finished with 24 disposals in a strong start to the season.

Fellow defender Ben Hopkins was also strong from the first bounce, with his six first-quarter intercept marks helping limit Gippsland’s lead to only seven points at the first break.

Following a 27-disposal game against Geelong Falcons last week, the teenager, also North Melbourne VFL contracted, played with a blend of competitiveness, nous and dash to again finish with a team-high 26 touches.

The ‘Rays kicked four goals in the seven minutes either side of quarter-time to briefly hit the lead as Vic Country aspirant Harry Doughton showcased his finishing ability in a second consecutive pleasing outing where he was given midfield minutes.

It

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Thereafter, Gippsland was able to wrestle back momentum for the most part, with hard-working midfielder Tom Hanily a pillar through the four quarters for Gippsland.

Hanily enhanced his midseason draft credentials with 32 disposals, seven tackles and a goal.

“I thought Tom was really good – his ability to stay strong over the contest all throughout the game was excellent,” Power coach Rhett McLennan said.

“He linked in well and shared the footy well.”

Gippsland got out to a 12-point halftime lead before Berwick junior and Haileybury College student Tairon Ah-Mu imposed himself on the contest in the second half.

The 2023 under-16sVic Country representative kicked three goals, including the first of the second half.

At 198cm, Ah-Mu used his size well in ruck contests and took five marks, alongside nine hit-outs.

Star Vic Country duo Xavier Lindsay and Willem Duursma helped Gippsland pulled away from the Stingrays late in the third quarter, the pair finishing with 51 disposals and three goals between them as they each showcased their class.

“(Lindsay’s) last half I thought was fantastic,” McLennan said.

“I thought the way he moved and got from contest to contest and used the footy with the class we know he’s got, was a real contributing factor to us keeping Dandenong at arm’s distance throughout the day.

“Willem’s always doing the work and you can see his ability to run and understand how much space (there is) and when he can get the football is very difficult to teach and he’s got a fantastic knack for turning up in the right place in the right time.”

With the Power leading by 17, there was a premium on the first goal of the last stanza, with Stingray Noah Hibbins-Hargreaves standing up and delivering. The highly-regarded bottom-aged player took a crunching one-on-one mark and calmly finished a difficult set shot two min-

utes into the quarter.

He did similarly 12 minutes later as the margin again blew out, with the Vic Country player finishing with three goals from 10 disposals in a promising display.

Dandenong’s defence, which contained local lads Kane Hurst (Berwick) and Tahj De La Rue (Pakenham), held up well for the last 15 minutes to resist several Gippsland forward forays.

The margin, ultimately, proved too big to overcome and the weight of the Power’s entries eventually saw them kick a late sealer.

The Power played 10 debutantes in the season-opener with McLennan buoyed by their signs.

“I thought they all played their roles really well,” McLennan said.

“We had two brand new rucks who worked their way into the game and their ability to compete and help on the ground was excellent and our forwards looked really exciting, particularly the bottom-aged guys who looked to be creative, which was exactly what we want.”

Other locals in action included Fountain Gate junior Coren Giliam, who was flashy and kicked two goals, Devon Meadows’ Toby Sinnema, Beaconsfield’s Jordan Doherty, Officer debutant Brodie Snooks and Warragul Industrials’ Alixzander Tauru.

Having played strong footy across the first fortnight, the Stingrays will be looking to rectify a 0-2 record against GWV, while Gippsland will have winning form behind them when it faces Bendigo.

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tight tussle between Dandenong and Gippsland. 398645

Picture: BLACK FOOT PHOTOGRAPHY

Cameron Williamson will have assistance inside 50 in 2024. 359438

Picture: ROB CAREW

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