EHD Star Journal - 23rd April 2024

Our Showcasing Casey 20 page wrap has plenty of local businesses to check out. Open up and take a look!

A growing hive of activity

With buzzing suburban communities, beautiful scenery and coastal towns just a short drive away, what’s not to love about the City of Casey?

While Casey residents are likely to be aware of the many perks and benefits of living in the region, this feature showcases the best aspects of life in Casey. From the great education options and local businesses to leisure services and retail sectors, Casey really has it all.

More than 411,000 people are forecast to call the City of Casey home in 2024 - up 18,000 in the past year. It is the most populous council area in the state, and that number is forecast to hit 574,124 in 2046, a staggering 40 per cent increase.

Over the next 18 years, 54 per cent of Casey’s population growth will occur in Clyde and Clyde North.

In 2022, 45 per cent of Casey households were couples with children – compared to 33 per cent in greater Melbourne.

The council area is one of the most diverse in Australia with 42 per cent of residents born overseas and spanning more than 150 nationalities. The top three overseas countries of birth are India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan.

More than three quarters of residents have at least one parent born overseas or were born overseas themselves.

There are more than 100 faiths observed in Casey – the most common being Catholic, Islam and Hindu.

Of the region’s 185,286 employed residents, 86,995 people living in Casey were employed in the city in 2021. The largest number of people were employed in healthcare and social assistance at 15,134 jobs between 2020 and 2021.

Other main areas of employment are retail trade at 14,331, education and training at 12,139 and construction at 9,269.

Many of the businesses are locally owned. In 2023, there were 31,879 businesses in the City of Casey and the Gross Regional Production was $12.21 billion – about 2.4 per cent of Victoria’s GRP.

Construction was the most productive industry in the City of Casey between 2020-2021, generating $1,268 million.

Gardens And Outdoor Destinations

The City of Casey has an abundance of parks, playgrounds and open spaces to enjoy.

Whether you visit the 1001 Steps at Bayview Park in Narre Warren South, Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick, Akoonah Park Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne or the Hallam Valley Trail, you’ll have a myriad of options to choose from. From family friendly to physical activities, the City of Casey has all you need. Doveton pool in the park

The Pool in the Park in Doveton is the only outdoor pool in the City of Casey.

The pool has served the community for over 50 years as a popular spot for families and friends to cool off during summer.

After its opening in 1968, the Pool in the Park is easily the oldest surviving pool in the City of Casey with the 50m pool set for a staged rebuild by the council from 2024-25.

The exciting upgrade divided in three stag-

es are subject to community feedback and Federal and State funds.

Design features may include a beach sand pit, plaza, canopy tree planting, upgraded splash pad, playground, outdoor fitness equipment, barbecue, toilets.

Endeavour hills skate park

Boasting a 4.4-star review on Google, the Endeavour Hills Skatepark has become a popular spot for skateboarders, scooters, and BMXers.

The modern rad skatepark is first opened to the public in 2020 as part of the Endeavour Hills Community Precinct Project which features more than 865 square metres of terrain with various bowls for skateboards, bicycles and scooters, a new playground with terraced

landscaping and forest walking. With the playground and the skatepark in close proximity, the park overall is inclusive for children of all ages and families to enjoy.

Education

The City of Casey has a network of great education options that include Catholic schools such as St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar, St Catherine’s Primary School in Berwick, Mary MacKillop Primary School in Narre Warren and St Paul Apostle North and South Primary Schools in Endeavour Hills.

Secondary students also have a variety of education options, including Casey Grammar School, St Francis Xavier College Berwick, Beaconhills Christian College, Heritage College, Hampton Park Secondary College and Alkira Secondary College.

The City of Casey is also fortunate to have Dandenong Valley SDS,a school dedicated to students aged from pre school to 18 years with intellectual disabilities. The purposebuilt school caters for every one’s needs, with various play areas including a bike track, sensory rooms and outdoor spaces, multipurpose rooms, paramed offices,a hydrotherapy room and a range of therapists on hand.

The City of Casey also has a range of government schools on offer to parents with the catchment area. These include James Cook Primary School, Oatlands Primary School, Berwick Lodge Primary School and Cranbourne Park Primary School.

Bagadencak Minang Saiyo - one of many groups that perform at Bunjil Place. 334046 Picture: ROB CAREW

A grey-headed flying fox takes off in wetlands in Doveton. 336977 Picture: GARY SISSONS

A display of childrens paintings brighten the Endeavour Hills police station foyer. 357270 Picture: GARY SISSONS

The annual Doveton Show attracts thousands for an affordable festive experience.

Aseel Tayah sings at a Bukjeh ‘Hakaya’ event at Bunjil Place. 334046 Picture: ROB CAREW

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Endeavour Hills Specialist School opened in 2022. It caters for up to 288 students with learning neighbourhoods for early years, middle years and senior years, a dry lab for media, drama and physical activities and a wet lab for art, science, home-craft and technology.

The state-of-the-art facility also has a gymnasium, full-size outdoor play court and soccer pitch.

Sport

The City of Casey has long been a hub of sporting activity in Melbourne’s southeast.

Casey Fields is the region’s premier sports and recreation precinct, home to Melbourne City Football Club and the Melbourne Demons AFL/AFLW teams. It also regularly hosts cricket, rugby, athletics and BMX events televised nationally. Boasting more than 30 fields, tracks and courts across its 87 hectares, there is also a dedicated train station in the works for Casey Fields as a part of the Clyde Rail extension.

This month, Melbourne City unveiled an $18.7 million state-of-the-art soccer academy at the precinct. The City of Casey contributed $12.3 million towards the 11-hectare facility, which boasts two-and-a-half grass pitches, three synthetic fields, 16 changerooms, a 60seat theatrette, hot and cold hydrotherapy pools, two gyms, community classrooms, and extensive sports medicine, sports science, and administration spaces.

Meanwhile, Casey Fields’ athletic track received a $1-million-plus resurfacing.

In its 2024-’25 draft budget, Casey proposes $8.6 million for Springleaf Recreation Reserve, an AFL, cricket and netball facility in Clyde North. It also plans upgrades for pavilions at Tooradin, Strathaird Reserve, Ray Bastin Reserve and Grices Road Recreation Reserve.

Riding for the Disabled Australia president Claire,volunteer Lilia with a rider at Myuna Farm, Doveton. 376732

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Endeavour Hills footballers celebrate a goal. 399552 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Avtar Saini,Baljeet Singh Sandhu,Maree Cullinan and Harbhagwan Dass enjoy a Harmony Day celebration at Balla Balla Community Centre. 389986 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Joel Nicholls marks for Doveton Eagles during a recent clash. 399777 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Aisha,11,at Southern Cross Primary School’s Harmony Day event. 389242

Picture: LJUBICA VRANKOVIC

Kenta Murakami from Doveton Soccer Club. 399776

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Doveton supporter Punchie with a can and a bucket of chips at Robinson Reserve Doveton. 399551

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Eye for detail

Pakenham and Berwick optometrist OPSM is offering high-quality service and products to its customers.

Products and services on offer include comprehensive eye testing; contact lens fitting; tests for glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetes; children’s eye exams and optical corrections; a wide range of glasses for every budget with premium quality frames and lenses and world renowned brands and services.

Local optometrist Theo Charalambous said he and his team aim to make their clients look amazing.

“We love to enhance how locals see the world,“ he said.

“We treat all of our clients like family and make sure we look out for any potentially threatening eye conditions and tailor solutions for visual needs.

“We take pride when we see our frames around town enhancing quality of life and also fashionable accessories.“

Mr Charalambous said the team supports the nearby area.

“As a franchise we are uniquely able to offer the world best practice, product and service with a local team who love what they do,“ he said.

“We live and breathe local, and ownership is local.

“We participate in free local school screenings and identify eye concerns before they become an issue for education,“ he said.

OPSM Berwick and Pakenham’s opening hours are 9am to 5.30pm Mondays toWednesdays and Fridays, 9am to 7.30pm Thursdays and 9am to 3pm Saturdays.

Embrace the change

As a local physiotherapist and a passionate advocate for women’s health, I am excited to announce an upcoming seminar aimed at providing education and strategies to empower women in our community. The seminar, scheduled for Wednesday May 8 at 1:30pm at the Balla Balla Community Centre, will focus on managing the mental and physical changes that occur during and after menopause.

The idea for this seminar arose from my observations of an increasing number of post-menopausal issues among my clients, including osteoporosis, hip pain, and prolapse.

Additionally, many women were reporting mental health issues such as stress, depression, anxiety, and poor sleep, which were significantly impacting their quality of life.

To address these issues, I have collaborated with other local allied health professionals, including Angela Scanlon, an experienced counselling psychologist, and Megan D’Atri, an experienced exercise physiologist. Together, we will provide women with information and advice on preventing and managing pelvic floor issues, including incontinence and prolapse. We will also discuss safe exercising to prevent and reduce osteoporosis, as well as strategies to manage mental health issues.

To ensure that the seminar is accessible to everyone, Be Your Best Physiotherapy is sponsoring the event, and entry is free. However, bookings are essential and can be made by phone at (03) 5996 2693 or online at www.trybooking.com/CQBCK.

Following the seminar, there will be a free afternoon tea, providing an opportunity for attendees to share their menopause and post-menopause experiences and to ask questions of the presenters. This event promises to be informative, empowering, and supportive, and I encourage all local women to attend and take charge of their health and well-being.

Michelle Crowther

· BeYour Best Physiotherapy

· (03) 5996 2693

Michelle Crowther - Be Your Best Physiotherapy.

The team at OPSM Berwick - Tina, Theo and Monica. 377922

Program driving success

St Francis Xavier College announces the launch of its select entry Advanced Academic Achievement Program (AAA Program), set to commence in 2025. This groundbreaking program aims to cater to high achieving Year 7 students, providing an enriched academic environment that promises to nurture their intellectual capacities to the fullest.

The AAA Program is designed as an academic enrichment initiative, offering students a unique opportunity to broaden their knowl-

edge and skills across various disciplines throughout their secondary education. Participants will be immersed in an environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.

Students enrolled in the AAA Program can look forward to engaging in a variety of stimulating activities, including participation in national subject competitions, Debating, and the Tournament of the Minds. Furthermore, the program does not limit students’ involve-

ment in the college’s extra curricula offerings. Participants will have full access to an array of activities ranging from Performing Arts to sports, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.

Admission into the AAA Program will be competitive, based primarily on academic merit. Prospective students are required to demonstrate their capabilities through an entrance examination. The College is committed to fostering a diverse group of talents, offering

a total of 56 places in its inaugural year, evenly distributed between the Berwick and Officer campuses.

Prospective families and students are encouraged to express their interest early, with a registration deadline set for May 3, 2024. This initiative represents a significant milestone for St Francis Xavier College in its ongoing commitment to excellence in education, providing a platform for gifted students to excel and achieve their full potential.

St Francis Xavier College in its ongoing commitment to excellence in education.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Supporting the community

There is a little diamond hidden in Berwick South. It’s a place of fun and warmth. It’s a place where groups can gather, and new friends can be made.

It’s a place of community, and community connection.

It’s Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House and Community Centre.

The centre opened its doors to the community as part of an open day on Saturday 20 April, welcoming people of all ages to enjoy the activities on offer.

Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House has been a local cornerstone for more than 13 years.

They are passionate about supporting the local community and are always finding new

and fresh ways to engage.

The centre runs programs for children through to seniors, with a wide variety of programs. Running six playgroup sessions a week, they often have a waitlist for this much soughtafter program.

Their playgroup program allows for children to explore and make connections in a safe environment, as well as a place for parents to connect with others in a similar life stage.

Currently, Brentwood Park partners with a local PT to run four women’s fitness programs a week, that include postpartum fitness right up to seniors fitness.

These classes have become a highlight of the women’s week.

Terrie who runs this program is so passion-

ate about helping women find themselves and be an example to their families that they as women are important.

The team is also excited to be launching a new partnership with Michelle Macpherson, a paediatric psychologist in the field of educational and developmental psychology.

Michelle will be running fortnightly sessions that are suited for families who may be on waitlists to see a psychologist, or even for families who are looking for more tools for their parenting toolbox.

As well as their own programs, Brentwood Park is used by local businesses and community groups as a venue for their programs.

This includes Berwick Bridge Club (who have just launched beginners bridge classes),

Reach out to the team if you are looking for a venue to hire!

As always, the House is open for the community to pop in and see the facilities and let the team know what they want from the House.

If you have a skill you can share or have an interest you want to learn more about, let the team know and they will do everything they can to make it happen.

You can contact BPNH through email on admin@bpnh.org.au or through mobile on 8743 0671.

We invite you to join us for our next tour and explore our ELC, Junior School, Senior Girls and Senior Boys schools.

Please book your place via our website or using the QR code

Casey Cardinia Life Activity Club along with Chess Republic teaching the next generation of chess players how to rule the world.

Brentwood Park is also available for hire for private functions, in their main hall.

Cara, Jo, Veronica and Brooke from Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House. 402440

Kaitlyn from Fire Engine Hire with Anika and Carmien from Cranbourne North. 402440 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY Delicious food options

Little Lanterns.. a little gem in Clyde North.

A bowl of comforting Vietnamese pho, freshly made Banh mi with all your favourite fillings, healthy rice paper rolls, pillowy bao buns, flavourful noodle bowls.

Just a sample of the mouthwatering dishes on the menu at Little Lanterns.. a light filled, smartly decorated cafe in the Maybloom health, wellness fitness and lifestyle precinct in the South East.

Situated at 20 Jura Way Clyde North, this quaint space on the ground floor, also offers delicious Lavazza coffee and scrumptious treats to tempt the sweet tooth.

The team who ran Lanterns Viet kitchen in Berwick are behind this latest adventure and strive to bring you the much lovedVietnamese dishes that were a hit on High Street.

If you were a lover of their food there, then you will be happy to find their mini version cafe just 10 minutes up the road in Clyde. And if you are new to the Lanterns brand, you won’t be disappointed.

Whether you are on your lunch break, or craving a takeaway coffee and something nice to go with it, or meeting a friend for a bite to eat, Little Lanterns is there to please.

As the winter days approach, the menu is being updated with curries, fried rice and wok fried noodles and new breakfast options are also being added so if you skip your morning cereal, you’ll definitely find something to stop the tummy rumbles.

While you’re there, look out for their cater-

ing brochure which allows you to click on a QR code and take you directly to their website. Their extensive options are sure to entice you into using their services for your next party or staff lunch function And speak to the staff about dinner options available from their other premises only minutes away from the cafe.

The Little Lanterns team has got you covered!

· 0408 537 281

· 11am-9pm 7 days

Freshly made Banh mi with all your favourite fillings, and of course, a coffee!

Vincent from Little Lanterns is a little gem in Clyde North.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Berwick gem

customers.

Berwick Village Jewellers, nestled in the quaint Blackburn Square, stands as a testament to a decades-long tradition that commenced with the visionary founders, James and Kay Drysdale who started the business in March 1984.

Today, under the caring stewardship of Anthony and Sylvia, the legacy continues, thriving as a family-owned business rooted in the same cherished values that its founders held dear.

With a combined experience of over 40 years in the jewellery and watch industry, Anthony and Sylvia bring unparalleled expertise to every piece they create and every repair they undertake. Anthony, a fully qualified watchmaker and jeweller, ensures that all watch and jewellery repairs are meticulously executed

on-site, guaranteeing precision and quality. Alongside them, a dedicated team comprising Michelle, Jenny, and Rosanna, further enriches the customer experience with their wealth of knowledge and warm hospitality.

BerwickVillage Jewellers distinguishes itself not only through its remarkable craftsmanship but also its commitment to personalised service. Specialising in handcrafted engagement rings, wedding rings, and Swiss watch repairs, the store stands as a beacon of expertise in the heart of Berwick. The shop and its staff, often regarded as Berwick’s royalty, offer not just products but an experience — a journey into the world of fine jewellery and horology.

For those seeking unparalleled expertise and genuine warmth, BerwickVillage Jewellers invites you to discover the artistry and passion that reside within its walls. Visit them at Shop 2, Blackburne Square, Berwick, VIC 3806, Australia, and experience the tradition of excellence that has defined them for four decades.

Pilates in the heart of town

Unparalleled by any other workout experience, the luxe studio positioned in south-east Melbourne has 14 reformer beds, polished hardwood floors and the signature Studio Pilates chandelier that will help you switch your mind off from outside distractions, so you can focus on you.

With classes morning, noon and night, you’re sure to find the perfect class time that fits with you and your schedule, regardless if you’re an early bird or a night owl.

Whether you’re new to Pilates or you’re a seasoned expert, you’ll be guided, supported and challenged by world-leading instructors who provide one-on-one feedback to help you feel confident and accomplished after every class. Our instructors are highly knowledgeable, skilled in injury modifications and love working with all bodies to get you feeling your absolute best.

The incorporation of AV technology during class showcases each move accompanied by voiceover guidance. This allows instructors to move around the studio, ensuring proper form for safety and maximum results - making classes feel like oneon-one training, within a fun group environment.

With scientifically sequenced programming, Studio Pilates classes are effective for allagesandfitnesslevels.So,whetheryou’re

looking to strengthen your core, improve your posture, incorporate some strength and resistance training into your workouts or simply try something new, Studio Pilates Clyde North can help you not only achieve, but exceed your goals.

Studio Pilates Clyde North has a variety of different class packs to choose from, starting with casual single classes all the way up to 100 class packs.With no memberships or lock-in contracts, you can choose an option that is right for you.

But don’t just take our word for it, experience the Studio Pilates Clyde North difference for yourself with our exclusive Introductory Offer and get 6 Classes for $60 + Free Orientation Workout* available for a limited time only.

Visit studiopilates.com/studios/clydenorth for more info or call 0431 936 297.

Studio Pilates Clyde North has a variety of different class packs to choose from, starting with casual single classes all the way up to 100 class packs.

Located in Blackburn Square Berwick, there exists a gem that transcends time, embracing a legacy of exquisite craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to its

Jim, Kay, Michelle, Sylvia, Rosanna and Anthony. 370066

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Having a little something for everyone, the Berwick Neighbourhood Centre will hold several events for the remainder of the month, with a Clothes Swap on 26 April and a Retirement Village presentation on 29 April.

The community hub offers many services, activities and support services that cater to every member of the local community, with staff that aim to be “just like a good neighbour”.

The neighbourhood centre has two loca-

tions; 112 High Street which includes their Children’s Services and Senior Citizens Building, and 20-26 Parkhill Drive with Timbarra Community Centre, hall, and the community garden.

The children’s services at High Street offer a warm and welcoming environment that accommodates children new to childcare but also includes programs such as their three-year-old Play and Grow initiative.

The Timbarra location also provides a similar environment, with facilitated, age-based playgroups that offer a wide range of activities, from exercise classes to crafts and playgroups as well as the community garden with accompanying workshops.

Going for over 30 years, the Berwick Activities Club is also part of the centre, with social activities, outings, carpet bowls, dancing and many more to offer.

A knitting group is also part of the BNC, whose skills, work and time are put towards producing garments for a range of charities and children in need.

Further upcoming events include the Mother’s Day high tea on Thursday 9 May, which will bepresentedbytheBerwickbranchoftheCWA.

For more information on enrolment, activities and groups, visit the BNC website at www. berwickneighbourhoodcentre.com

Members of the Berwick Activities Club playing board games. Pictures: SUPPLIED The Activities Club offers social gatherings filled with a range of activities for all to enjoy.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

A place of belonging

Currently registered with Family Day Care provider, local not for profit Windermere, Jo Pierce has been running her own Family Day Care since 2021. She believes the personalised nature of home-based care provides the best outcomes for children.

“Every child can feel seen and valued and they have a place where they can belong,” she says from her experience as a Family Day Care educator.

As someone who loves and enjoys working with children, Jo began her career in long day care after completing her diploma in early childhood education and care.

While Jo enjoyed the interactions with children in centre-based care, developing relationships with them wasn’t practicable due to the large number in attendance.

“It was important for me to be able to build that relationship with them and I decided to start my own family day care,” says Jo.

As a parent, Jo also felt the need to spend more time with her young children which the long hours at long day care did not allow.

“My son was still in primary school and I didn’t like not being at home when he was home,” says Jo.

Family Day Care provided the perfect solution to meet her personal needs and facilitate the level of care she wished to provide. Personalised care and attention are very much at the heart of Family Day Care which maintains a limit of seven children up to age 12 with no more than four preschool children in care.

Across four days of operation, Jo has five children attending, who have been with her from the start.

“We have become like a little family. I know them so well I can let parents know if I notice a difference in their behaviours and they are not themselves.”

It’s no surprise that the children love going to Jo’s and parents often share how eager their children are to return to the family day care after the weekend.

Last September Jo’s passion and dedication were duly recognised by the Family Day Care Excellence Awards which named her the Regional Educator Winner for the Mornington Peninsula and Bass Coast region. Windermere were also recognised in the awards as a 2023 national finalist in the service category. Jo credits her success to the strong bonds she has developed with families and children.

Jo also appreciates the support she receives from Windermere to run her Family Day Care seamlessly.

This support from Windermere also helps maintain the relationships with families that she cherishes so much.

“Not only do I have the confidence to tell families to reach out to Windermere with any questions, I also appreciate that they handle all the financial aspects. That played a big role in my decision to choose Windermere,” she says.

Windermere also provides an environment of support to deal with the challenges of work-

ing in isolation. This includes periodic visits to ensure Jo has all the support she needs.

To other educators who are looking to start out in Family Day Care, Jo has a few words of encouragement.

“Just go for it. It seems like a big step and there are things you must have in place before you can start.

I am so glad I pushed through any setbacks,” she says adding “I love what I do every day. This is what I was meant to do.”

For more information or to enrol visit www. windermere.org.au or call Windermere on 1300 946 337.

Windermere - a place of belonging in Family Day Care.

Straight and healthy smile

Located in St Germain Central shopping centre, Urban Smile are the experts in teeth straightening using clear aligners. Book in for a free consultation with the Clyde Orthodontic Studio and we will take 3D scans, X-rays and professional dental photographs of your teeth and talk through your smile goals.

All smiles are designed by our specialist orthodontists, not dentists, so you can be confident you are getting the best treatment.

We provide an at home monitoring app to track tooth movement to ensure everything is on target, meaning less studio visits and the ultimate convenience for you. Our treatments include free teeth whitening and a retainer at the end. Suitable from 11 years, plus we provide interest free payment plans and accept health insurance rebates.

Book in for a free consultation today at urbansmile.com.au

For all your health, beauty and wellness needs

Clyde North, your newest Priceline Pharmacy is now open!

For expert pharmacy advice and tailored beauty advice, come and say hello to the team at Priceline Pharmacy Clyde, 5/21 St Germain Boulevard, Clyde North (next to Coles).

Priceline Pharmacy is Australia’s leading health, beauty and wellness retailer. We offer an affordable range of products, services and expert advice delivered with real, classic care.

Priceline Pharmacy is committed to supporting all Australian families to live healthier and happier lives, by making health, beauty and wellness experiences simpler, more affordable and easier to access.

So, visit Priceline Pharmacy Clyde today for all your health, beauty and wellness needs.

Priceline Pharmacy, Clyde North at St.Germain Central - next to Coles.

Urban Smile are the experts in teeth straightening using clear aligners.

meetings remain during the night racing season, five at Cranbourne and four at Sportsbet-Pakenham, giving racegoers ample opportunity to experience night racing at both venues.

“At Southside Racing, we’re dedicated to creating an unparalleled experience for rac-

ing enthusiasts across the southeast,“ said Neil Bainbridge, Chief Executive Officer. “Our goal is to eliminate a barrier that might prevent people from coming along and enjoying the full experience, whether it’s the excitement of witnessing the stars on the track up close or indulging in our exceptional food and beverage options, all while experiencing the renowned service that Southside Racing is known for.”

“By removing the barrier of admission charges, we are opening our gates wide to invite individuals and families to come together and experience the excitement of a night out

at our two premier venues,“ Bainbridge added.

The first free entry meeting will be held at Southside Cranbourne on Friday, 3 May, with the season’s final night racing meeting of the season to run at the same venue on Friday, 31 May.

Southside Racing Night Meetings Schedule for May:

Southside Racing @ Cranbourne

· Friday, 3 May

· Friday, 10 May

· Friday, 17 May

· Friday, 24 May

· Friday, 31 May

Southside Racing @ Sportsbet-Pakenham

· Thursday, 9 May

· Thursday, 16 May

· Thursday, 23 May

· Thursday, 30 May

For more information and updates, please visit www.southsideracing.com.au

Join us for an unforgettable night of racing action and entertainment at Southside Racing

Ann-MarieHermans.com.au

97947667

ann-marie.hermans@parliament.vic.gov.au

Southside Racing welcomes racegoers with free entry for May night meetings.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Book wise

Family owned and operated for 21 years, Taylor & Moore provide nationwide business activity statements (BAS), bookkeeping and payroll services.

Their services include bookkeeping services, such as accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliation, expense and debtor management, data entry, EOFY preparation, and accountant journals; BAS agent services including BAS, IAS, SGC, STP, GST and PAYGW Registrations, FTC and TPAR; payroll services including payroll processing, workers compensation, payroll tax and superannuation; specialised reporting services including cash flow management, budgeting, board reports, file audits, EOM reporting; and Xero software integration and training services.

Taylor & Moore director Sharron Taylor said they are constantly updating their processes to stay up-to-date.

“We are driven by a commitment to accuracy and precision in our work, providing meticulous bookkeeping services to ensure that our clients have reliable financial data to make informed decisions,“ she said.

“The dynamic nature of accounting and bookkeeping means staying updated with the latest industry trends, regulations, and technologies enables us to provide superior services to our clients.“

MsTaylor said they pride themselves on being an established business.

“We service clients both local and interstate.

“We have an extensive knowledge base with friendly with accessibility of staff.

“Our approach is to help businesses succeed and we’re proud to provide proactive support to owners and their business.“

Ms Taylor said the enthusiastic and dynamic team, which includes a number of se-

nior staff members with more than 15 years’ experience, works hard to help clients achieve their goals.

“It is our mission to help our clients and to give them back their time and alleviate all the bookkeeping pressures and headaches so they can focus on all other aspects of their business,“ she said.

“We offer specialised bookkeeping services tailored to most industries including all trades, medical industry, investment properties and developers, retail, consulting, manufacturing, hairdressing, importer and exports, tourism, engineering, IT, entertainment, education, beauty and more.

“We are preparing our clients and their books for EOFY in preparation of their tax returns with their accountants.“

Accountants regularly refer their clients to use Taylor & Moore for their bookkeeping needs, with 98 per cent of its clients coming from referrals from accountants and other clients.

For more information, visit taylormoore. com.au

fordable and invaluable.

Parents should be able to take pleasure in the water alongside their children, and this program makes that a reality.

The emotional and mental toll of not being confident in the water can be significant. The Swim Factory recognises this and aims to provide not just swimming skills but also peace of mind and enjoyment in aquatic activities. Safety is paramount, and this program prioritises equipping adults with the skills and confidence needed to stay safe in and around water.

both af-

For those interested in joining the program or learning more, contact The Swim Factory at 03 8768 8520 or visit them at 30 Remount Way, Cranbourne West, VIC, 3977. Remember, it’s never too late to learn to swim and enjoy the water safely.

Contact The Swim Factory if you are interested in joining their program or to learn more.

Taylor & Moore director Sharron Taylor. Picture: SUPPLIED

MARNEBEK SCHOOL

Dual campus school based in Cranbourne East, offering an environment that supports students’ academic, social and personal needs.

HELPING SPECIAL STUDENTS TO REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL

Marnebek School is a specialist P-12 school delivering highly individualised educational programs for students with disabilities, high support needs and/or developmental challenges.

Part of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Navigators Initiative, parents and carers receive the support they need to navigate and understand the NDIS, ensuring they get the most out of the available support for their child.

At Marnebek - we follow a School Wide Positive Behaviour Support Framework with benefits for both Students and Teachers including

• increased respectful and positive behaviour

• increased time focused on instruction

• improved social-emotional wellbeing

• positive and respectful relationships among students and staff

• increased adoption of evidence-based instructional practices

• a predictable learning environment with improved perceptions of safety and increased attendance

Visit our website to discover more about the incredible opportunities, support, and work happening at Marnebek School.

https://www.marnebek.vic.edu.au/

RESILIENCE

A resident said the park with a barbecue shelter, bench seating and landscaping was crucial open space.

“It’s our only green space so it’s just not acceptable.

“People don’t have much of a yard. Some have converted them to decking or concreting.”

Neighbours park on the narrow streets due to having single garages and a lack of space in their front yards, the resident said.

As a sign of the pressures, some of the es-

tate’s on-street car parking is permit only.

Greater Dandenong Council city futures executive director Sanjay Manivasagasivam said the council had not been notified of the proposal.

“An amendment to the planning approvals on the site would be needed.

“Council is committed to maintain open space for residents and would encourage the body corporate to seek advice before proceeding any further.”

Ward councillor Rhonda Garad said it seemed unlikely that the council would ap-

ANZAC tributes begin

the Australian flag (pictured) during an ANZAC Day service at Springvale cenotaph on Sunday 21 April. Meanwhile students such as L-R Alex, Zairene and Keyaa from Westall Primary School (inset) paid their respects. More services are ahead in Endeavour Hills (23 April), Dingley (24 and 25 April) and Dandenong (25 April).

For more details, turn to page 8

prove the proposal.

“The open space would be critical for the quality of life for the people living there, particularly for many with small children.

“Many of them have little to no yards, there are no other play areas.

“It seems quite bizarre that the body corp wouldn’t know it would be knocked back. (The permit) was only approved a few years ago.”

Cr Garad said the lack of private yards and parking was a trade-off for the “relatively lower” cost of housing.

Continued page 12

SBLT Cinaed Finall from the Royal Australian Navy and John Sayers salute

Pictures: GARY SISSONS