Cranbourne Star News - 28th November 2019

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n Monitor appointed to Casey as IBAC bombshells land

‘I nailed Tyler’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells The State Government has appointed a monitor to examine governance at the City of Casey as the bombshells continue to land at the IBAC anti-corruption hearings.

Casey councillor Geoff Ablett and a property developer have spoken about “nailing” the council’s former chief executive Mike Tyler in an intercepted phone call, the inquiry heard.

And in sensational testimony on Wednesday 27 November, former Casey mayor Lorraine Wreford claimed that councillor Sam Aziz conspired for her to commit perjury to the IBAC inquiry about the amount of a loan he gave in a suitcase to a property developer.

Ms Wreford, employed by the developer John Woodman as his lobbyist, also referred to Cr Aziz and Cr Geoff Ablett as becoming “greedy” for money.

The pair of councillors are alleged by IBAC to have received $1.2 million from Mr Woodman, who had interest in several property projects in Casey.

She also agreed that Cr Aziz was being bribed to support council motions in Mr Woodman’s favour.

Early in her evidence, Ms Wreford told the November 27 hearing that Cr Aziz had sought to meet with her after they had been summoned as witnesses for the anti-corruption hearing.

They met at a cafe “straight” after Cr Aziz gave private evidence to IBAC. “We’ve got to get our story straight,” Cr Aziz said, according to Ms Wreford.

Earlier in the hearing, Mr Woodman, admitted during the Operation Sandon inquiry, that he had asked Cr Ablett to consider whether Mr Tyler’s “time was up” as CEO for 27 years.

“I’m going to say it again mate, if it hadn’t have been for you,” Mr Woodman told Cr Ablett in the tapped call on 11 November 2018.

Mayor Geoff Ablett bragged of ending Casey CEO Mike Tyler's tenure. 182116 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS “If it had of been up to Amanda, maybe Sam would have done it, but if it hadn’t been for you we would have been still putting up with Mike Tyler and his antics.”

Cr Ablett told Mr Woodman that before the CEO’s removal, he gathered information from previous officers, experts and councils “who hated Mike Tyler’s guts”.

“Every time he moved left or right or for-

ward or back I had him covered and then eventually I started gathering the information.

“After six weeks we had him in the corner and then I f***ing nailed him.”

At the IBAC inquiry, Mr Woodman said he’d been against Mr Tyler for obstructing Amendment C219 rezoning of Cranbourne West land.

He also admitted telling Cr Ablett of a council officer who was not conducting himself in a

“fair and balanced way”. The officer was subsequently purged from their job, the hearing was told.

During a later tapped phone call with his consultant Megan Schutz, Mr Woodman railed against Mr Tyler’s successor Glenn Patterson: “Yep, I don’t know when this f***wit is going to work out that, like, um, he’s only got the job because of us,” Mr Woodman said.

Mr Patterson should “shape up or f*** off”, he said.

At the inquiry, Mr Woodman said his “bignoting” about being involved in Mr Patterson getting the job was a “total incorrect statement”.

“I stand to be corrected. I don’t think that it was my instigation that Mr Tyler was moved on, sir.”

Commissioner Robert Redlich asked about allegations of Mr Woodman bullying Casey Council staff in 2018.

The inquiry also heard one of Cr Ablett’s reasons for “moving on” the former CEO was his edict to stop councilors visiting council officers at their work spaces.

Cr Ablett wanted to “have more of a friendly working relationship with those council officers”, Mr Woodman said.

Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek on Wednesday 27 November announced the appointment of Laurinda Gardner to monitor Casey’s affairs until 31 January 2020, effective immediately.

The monitor will advise the Minister: If councillors, individually or as a group, are behaving in a manner that does not accord with the role of Councillor.

Of any impact on the integrity and/or functioning of council decision-making and the orderly governance of the City of Casey arising from Operation Sandon.

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IBAC HEARING

Woodman’s ‘friendly’ councillors

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Sam Aziz and Lorraine Wreford at Sandhurst Golf Club.

Aziz perjury push Former Casey mayor Lorraine Wreford has sensationally claimed that councillor Sam Aziz conspired for her to commit perjury to an IBAC inquiry about the amount of a loan he gave in a suitcase to a property developer.

Ms Wreford, employed by the developer John Woodman as his lobbyist, also referred to Cr Aziz and Cr Geoff Ablett as becoming “greedy” for money.

The pair of councillors are alleged by IBAC to have received $1.2 million from Mr Woodman, who had interest in several property projects in Casey.

She also agreed that Cr Aziz was being bribed to support council motions in Mr Woodman’s favour.

Early in her evidence, Ms Wreford told the November 27 hearing that Cr Aziz had sought to meet with her after they had been summoned as witnesses for the anti-corruption hearing.

They met at a cafe “straight” after Cr Aziz gave private evidence to IBAC. “We’ve got to get our story straight,” Cr Aziz said, according to Ms Wreford.

Cr Aziz told her that Mr Woodman had to tell IBAC that the loan was for $370,000 and “no other amount”.

According to Mr Woodman’s public evidence to the commission, the loan was for $600,000

cash delivered in a suitcase by Cr Aziz.

At the councillor’s request, the contract was later varied in a backdated version for $370,000, Mr Woodman has told the inquiry.

At the hearing, Ms Wreford said she asked Cr Aziz at the time: “Are you saying you lied to IBAC?” She said that Cr Aziz replied: “Yes and we have to keep our stories straight.”

Commissioner Robert Redlich asked if Cr Aziz was encouraging her to commit perjury.

“One hundred percent,” Ms Wreford said.

Ms Wreford agreed with counsel assisting IBAC, Michael Tovey, that Cr Aziz in 2018 had threatened to vote against the H3 intersection in Hall Road, Cranbourne West if he didn’t receive about $600,000.

“Certainly Cr Aziz seemed to think he was owed that money.”

In what Ms Wreford said was a “highly unusual circumstance”, she said she couriered $2000 a month in cash to Cr Aziz as part of what she thought was repayments for the loaned money.

Mr Woodman had told the inquiry that Cr Aziz was being paid the cash as part of a $25,000 monthly Smart Cities consultancy fee for a project in Little River.

In March Ms Wreford delivered a contract backdated to December 2018 to Cr Aziz – to give “legitimacy” to the deal, Mr Tovey said.

“I thought it was a legal document,” Ms Wreford said.

She said she didn’t feel comfortable with the cash deliveries, or with Cr Aziz’s demands for money from Mr Woodman.

“Over the past 18 months I’ve been quite disturbed about how greedy Cr Aziz has become."

She said Mr Woodman mentioned that there were two such councillors in Casey, the other being Cr Ablett.

By early 2018, Ms Wreford realised that cash to Cr Aziz was being linked to him supporting council motions in Mr Woodman’s favour.

When Mr Redlich asserted that this amounted to Cr Aziz being bribed, Ms Wreford said: “In all honesty, I wasn’t sure who was bribing who.”

Under more questioning, she agreed it was a bribe but she’d insisted that Cr Aziz should have declared a conflict of interest and removed himself on voting on Mr Woodman’s matters.

She said she’d told Cr Aziz to declare a conflict of interest at council but he hadn’t done so.

“I can’t tell you how shocked I was he hadn’t done it.”

Property developer John Woodman invested about $50,000 in supporting candidates in 2016 Casey Council elections, an IBAC anticorruption hearing heard.

In pre-election analysis, councillors were rated by Mr Woodman’s associates as either “friendly”, opponents or unknown in their attitude towards Amendment C219.

The amendment was proposed to rezone a large tract of industrial land in Cranbourne West to residential use - a push that was supported

by Mr Woodman and developer Leighton.

The ‘friendly’ elected councillors, as rated

by Mr Woodman’s group, were Crs Geoff Ablett, Susan Serey, Milla Gilic, Amanda Stapledon, Steve Beardon (who was later replaced in a by-election by another friendly Gary Rowe), Damien Rosario, Wayne Smith and Sam Aziz.

Mr Woodman denied that the list was used to decide which councillors he would support.

Those in the unknown or opponent categories were councillor Rex Flannery, Rosalie Crestani and Tim Jackson.

Cr Flannery was described in hand-written notes as a “nutcase” as were several other candidates such as former councillor Lynette Keleher. Former Casey councillor Paul Richardson was described as “extra nutcase”.

Cr Crestani’s political membership of Rise Up Australia was noted. She was described as part of former councillor Rafal Kaplon’s ‘group’.

Cr Jackson was described as a “friend” of City of Monash ALP councillor Geoff Lake.

The hearing tabled encrypted messages on What’s App between Mr Woodman and his “lobbyist” Lorraine Wreford, who was a former Casey mayor and ex-Liberal MP. The messaging app was used because of it was “more of a private nature”, Mr Woodman said.

In a message exchange during the 2016 council elections, Ms Wreford said Sam Aziz “thinks Amanda (Stapledon), Wayne (Smith) & himself will get back.

“If that happens they will have the numbers.”

Mr Woodman told IBAC that “I can only assume that they mean the numbers that would support Sam on a particular issue, and I’m only assuming that that was the Cranbourne West issue.”

On the eve of a council vote on Amendment C219, Ms Wreford confirmed by What’s App that “Sam (Aziz) will be at the meeting and has the numbers. All will be fine.”

The 7 June 2016 motion, seconded by Cr Aziz, was successful. It was to include 66 per cent of 200 hectares of industrial land in Cranbourne West for residential use.

The move was ultimately blocked by the State Government.

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IBAC HEARING

The ‘kingmaker’ in Casey mayoral tilt

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Property developer John Woodman has been described in an IBAC anti-corruption hearing as a “king maker” during the election of Amanda Stapledon as Casey mayor in 2018.

Mr Woodman told the Operation Sandon hearing that he’d promised councillor Amanda Stapledon that he’d help her bid for mayor during a meeting in an East Malvern restaurant.

“I would put her in the category of a friend, yes, sir,” he said under questioning of IBAC’s counsel assisting Michael Tovey QC. His company Watsons sponsored after care services for disabled children at Blairlogie, which cared for Cr Stapledon’s disabled son, the hearing was told.

At the same time, Mr Woodman went cold on mayoral aspirant Geoff Ablett - who according to IBAC has allegedly received more than $300,000 from Woodman and his companies.

On 16 October, Mr Woodman speaks about the election with his consultant Megan Schultz in a tapped call.

Cr Ablett is referred by Ms Schutz as the “best” candidate.

“It’s just a pity he’s bloody conflicted with us. I don’t know why we ever, ever, ever declared a conflict in relation to him,” she said on the call.

Two days later, in another tapped call with Ms Schutz, Mr Woodman is heard to refer to Cr Stapledon as “fatso” while Cr Ablett is “on the

Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon was successfully elected as mayor - with the support of alleged 'king maker' John Woodman.

198606 Picture: ROB CAREW nose” with his colleagues.

“He (Cr Ablett) doesn’t know I’ve had lengthy discussions with fatso and... we’re going to keep it that way,” he said.

“He’s obviously on the nose big time ... he’s on the way out.”

He said it was “outrageous” that Cr Ablett had been threatening councillors that Mr

Adem Somyurek says the IBAC allegations levelled at Casey councillors and property developers are "concerning". 201398 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS

Woodman would withdraw support from them if they didn’t “play ball”.

“He’s been going around telling people unless they play ball one of their number one supporters is going to withdraw all support from them,” Mr Woodman said.

“As in you?” Ms Schutz said.

“Oh, der! Um, yep,” Mr Woodman replied.

The same day, in another intercepted call Mr Woodman says Cr Stapledon has the numbers and is “100 per cent behind us”.

He’s speaking with his son Heath Woodman who is connected with Cranbourne West developer Wolfdene.

At the IBAC hearing, Mr Tovey asserted that Mr Woodman was the “king maker” at the council - something that Mr Woodman denied.

“I think that what he was referring to was the fact that Councillor Aziz was undecided as to whether he voted for Ablett or for Amanda Stapledon,” Mr Woodman said.

“I would say that I had influence over one person who would ultimately, as it turned out, would decide because of the nature of the voting, system, as I understood it, sir.”

He didn’t support Cr Ablett seeking what would have been his second mayoralty in a row.

“There is no thought in my mind that I wanted Amanda to be mayor because of the fact that NDIS and my son’s assistance at Blairlogie would mean that she was favourable towards Heath,” he told IBAC.

Aziz’s $750,000 ultimatum: Woodman

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Casey councillor Sam Aziz threatened to reverse the council’s support for Cranbourne West intersection works unless a property developer paid him “hundreds of thousands of dollars”, an IBAC inquiry heard.

Developer John Woodman confirmed the Operation Sandon inquiry on 26 November that his lobbyist Lorraine Wreford was delivered the ultimatum by Cr Aziz in relation to the H3 intersection in November 2018.

The hearing was told Cr Aziz proposed selling his house in Barak Avenue, Berwick to Mr Woodman for $750,000.

Cr Aziz would then live in the house rentfree for two years, then buy it back for a “nominal” price.

Mr Woodman told the inquiry that he didn’t agree with Cr Aziz’s “suggestion”.

However, he later found “a contract where he could actually complete work on behalf of a project and be paid the sort of money that the councillor had outlined was his desire”.

The job in question was a $25,000-a-month Smart Cities consultancy for a Little River development.

“Mr Aziz was putting the bite on you for hundreds of thousands of dollars, and you then explored various ways of granting his wish,” Counsel assisting IBAC, Michael Tovey, said to Mr Woodman.

“Some things didn’t come to fruition until you gave him the $600,000 job for which there was a sham contract.”

Mr Woodman replied: “Sir, correct, except for the word “sham“. It was not a sham contract.”

A tapped phone call in March 2019 revealed Mr Woodman discussing with his assistant Jolene Rome about scanning the contract, emailing it and deleting it.

He agreed with Mr Tovey’s assertion that he didn’t want an electronic copy because the document was backdated to December 2018.

Mr Tovey said the contract had otherwise been due to expire in September 2020, on the

eve of the next council elections.

“You and Ms Wreford discussed the fact that Mr Aziz thought he was going to get a job with you after the so-called agreement expired and you and she basically laughed about it and what you indicated was that was never going to happen,” Mr Tovey told Mr Woodman at the hearing.

Mr Woodman said he initially didn’t take Cr Aziz’s approaches for work seriously but “my attitude towards his abilities did change”.

However he recently terminated the contract after learning Cr Aziz’s undertaking of enrolling in a Smart Cities-related PhD “didn’t stand the test of scrutiny”.

Mr Woodman told the inquiry that at one stage he and Ms Wreford had “remonstrated” and been “upset” that Cr Aziz had not declared a conflict of interest on planning matters related to Mr Woodman.

From the outset of the hearings, IBAC has alleged that Mr Woodman paid Cr Aziz about $900,000.

Allegations a concern

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek has described allegations of Casey councillor corruption as “concerning”.

Since 18 October, state anti-corruption body IBAC has conducted public examinations of alleged corrupt behaviour between Casey councillors and property developers.

At a sod-turn event at Officer on 25 November, Mr Somyurek said he would await IBAC’s findings before commenting on the seriousness of the allegations.

“It’s concerning that’s all I will say," the minister said.

“There’s natural justice in this case... and let’s see what IBAC come back with.”

Mr Somyurek said that he would expect Casey Council “doesn’t drop the ball” and “continues to deliver good governance and services for the community” in the meantime.

He didn’t comment on whether the Government acted strongly enough on a State Ombudsman’s investigation into similar issues involving Casey councillors in 2015.

Ombudsman Deborah Glass recommended that the Government “consider” restrictions on donations to candidates and political parties from property developers.

In the report, Ms Glass referred to Mr Somyurek heading a parliamentary inquiry into political funding in 2009.

Mr Somurek, as chair of the Electoral Matters Committee at the time, said Victoria had a “relatively clean“ record for proven politicalfinance scandals.

The committee recommended to await Commonwealth reforms, rather than act alone as a state.

In the present IBAC inquiry, counsel assisting Michael Tovey has claimed that Casey councillors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett received about $1.2 million and were treated like “puppets” by property developer John Woodman and associated companies.

The payments may have corrupted or compromised Casey’s planning process, in particular the Amendment C219 rezoning in Cranbourne West, the H3 intersection in Hall Road, Cranbourne West, and the Pavilion Estate, Mr Tovey said.

The hearings are expected to run for three weeks.

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STAR NEWS 3

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Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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NEWS

ATM thieves leave mess

By Brendan Rees Thugs have allegedly used a stolen car to smash into a Cranbourne East shopping centre in an attempt to steal an ATM on Tuesday morning, 26 November.

CCTV shows two males reversing a white SUV into the machine at Hunt Club Village Shopping Centre on Linsell Boulevard about 3.45am.

"The men were unsuccessful after placing a chain around the ATM and attempting to pull it out, they got back into the vehicle and drove away," Victoria Police spokeswoman Belinda Batty said.

Nothing was stolen but the damage, which is estimated to be in the tens of thousands of dollars.

Shattered glass and broken door frames were scattered across the area while the ATM was partly ripped from the floor.

Police cordoned off the area with tape and scoured the scene for clues during the morning of the incident.

Investigators have released CCTV and are appealing for anyone who may have dash cam footage in an around the Cranbourne area between 1am-4am showing the white coloured Nissan Dualis - which was found dumped nearby and bearing stolen number plates.

Neighbouring store owner of TSG Hunt Club Vinson Li said at least two shops as well as his had been hit in the past three-and-half-years.

"I have an alarm in my shop but still scared something happen. It's lucky this time," he said.

Sachin Behl, store owner of Dollar Essentials discount store said several stores were the target of thugs including his shop which was hit every week.

"It keeps happening so often now; just part of life, part of business," he said.

Police cordon off the area with tape. 201501 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

CCTV captured two males trying to steal an ATM at the Hunt Club Village Shopping Centre

The males drove an SUV into the ATM machine.

Baked bakery shop assistant Chelsea Draper said she had never seen anything as "damaging as this" in the four years she had worked at the centre.

"They could've quite easily tried other shops. The damage of the doors and everything out there it's like wow, definitely on a mission," she said.

"Luckily they haven't got away with anything".

The first male is perceived to be of islander appearance and aged in his late teens to mid20s.

He was wearing a black coloured jacket, black pants and black shoes with a black mask covering half of his face.

The second male is perceived to be of Caucasian appearance and aged in his late teens to mid-20s.

He was wearing a black and grey hooded jumper, dark pants and coloured runners.

Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating and urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

Night owls join forces for nature

Total control

By Brendan Rees

12387578-CG20-18

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria in Cranbourne is looking for keen wildlife enthusiasts to help with a four night nocturnal Southern Brown Bandicoot survey.

Residents, walkers and animal lovers of all ages are encouraged to sign up for the walks which will take place at bandicoot hotspots including the central reserve in Brookland Greens estate on Friday 29 November; and the golf course at Settlers Run on Tuesday 3 December.

“The more people we can get on board who are able to identify a bandicoot and log a sighting, the better our data will be,” said Charlotte Fletcher, Southern Brown Bandicoot Outreach Officer at Cranbourne Gardens.

Any wildlife sightings will be logged using iNaturalist, a simple app which crowdsources accurate identifications of plants and animals.

All data verified on iNaturalist is uploaded to Australia’s national biodiversity database and can be used in future conservation decision making.

“A guided spotlighting walk helps people learn to identify the local wildlife and understand more about what our local critters need to survive,” said Charlotte.

Guest wills include Sera Blair, Naturewatch, coordinator at the Victorian National Parks Association, and Sarah Maclagan, a southern brown bandicoot researcher from Deakin University.

The program is supported by the City of Casey, the Hazel and Arthur Bruce Bequest, and the Victorian Government. To register visit http://bandicootspotlighting.eventbrite.com. au

In 1975 a movie was made which many believed to be really a microcosm of the world in which we live today: One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest.

The film was inspired by a banned book written by Ken Kesey who had worked as an orderly in a mental health facility in California where he witnessed first hand the way in which bureaucracy was used to control the hospital’s population.

In this hospital, a major struggle took place daily - between sanity and insanity - behind the vaneer of rituals and procedures defined by a bureaucracy and used to disempower individuals.

Where the head nurse - Nurse Ratchet dominated life with the use of symbolic or physical violence to enforce compliance.

If you attend a Casey council meeting you should be excused for thinking you are in the Cuckoo’s Nest, not in a sane public planning venue based on democratic values.

Here meetings are dominated by the rules and procedures defined by the mayor and council, not by ratepayers or residents.

It should be clear from the ongoing IBAC investigations that some former Casey mayors and councillors were able to hide behind the workings of bureaucracy for years so that any corrupt behaviour could not be made subject to public scrutiny.

The question now has to be asked why do we have local governments at all? Couldn’t their work be done by an administrator without the politics and public expense being imposed on local communities?

Do state governments really need to be like the Nurse Ratchets of this world and hide behind bureaucracy to control us?

John Glazebrook, Endeavour Hills

Cafe still OK I am writing to you in regards to the “Cafe is OK” article in the Thursday 21 November edition of the Berwick Star News.

There are numerous errors - not just grammatical, that concern me.

The article is referring to “plans to build a cafe at 35-69 A’Beckett road” which is incorrect. The permit was for the existing cafe, located at 1 Oakview Boulevard. Due to landlord development, the original permits were granted for the Seebeck property before they were divided and the application therefore had to be processed under the original permit address.

Secondly, and most importantly, the end of the article states “The cafe would be restricted to 12 patrons”. This is of concern to us because the neighboring properties might read this and think that we were not granted permits to operate with a patronage of 88 which in fact we

SOCIALLY SPEAKING

com.au

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REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au

Rugby line-out practice at Casey Fields Cranbourne. 198533 were. The only restrictions put in place were for the closing times.

I would appreciate a statement of correction made in the next issue of Berwick Star News to ensure that our customers and neigh-

PICTURE STEWART CHAMBERS

bours are aware that we are in fact permitted to operate with a patronage of 88.

Bianca Ciavarella, partner in the Ciavanni Group trading as The Rise Pizzeria Cafe

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up To the Facebook group 'A day closer to rain' - helping our farmers in need while Christmas shopping is fabulous. If you haven't already; please check it out.

Thumbs down To Casey Council and their dodgy councillors

Thumbs up To the amazing CFA members who continue to protect and support our community in so many ways!

Thumbs up To Casey gymnastics for putting on an awesome competition yesterday - all the competitors had a ball. Team orange where the overall winners.

Thumbs up To the young guys who found my husband's phone at Berwick Secondary College and waited for us to call so we could pick it up! We are so lucky.

Thumbs Up Thumbs Down is your chance to have your say. Malicious or defamatory submissions will not be accepted. All submissions must include a full name address and daytime phone number. Contributions over the phone will not be accepted. Contributors will not be identified. The Star News reserves the right to edit submissions. To submit a Thumbs Up Thumbs Down email to dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au fax to 5945 0777 or post to P.O. Box 9 Pakenham 3810.

RAY’S SAY

On Friday 22 November, a story was shared to the Cranbourne Star News Facebook page about a series of questions put to property developer John Woodman during an IBAC hearing session last week regarding former City of Casey's CEO Mike Tyler surprise departure last year. It comes as IBAC investigate allegations of serious corrupt conduct at Casey Council. Here's how our readers responded online:

starcommunity.com.au CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666 EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au

Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600

LENSCAPE

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

Lachlan Mackenzie: Shocking to see so many Liberal and Labor figures caught up in this IBAC hearing. Really shows how important anti-corruption watchdogs are and how necessary it is to get money out of politics.

Bryan L. Abrahams: EVERYTHING normally "Comes out in the wash", and these corrupt councillors are aware of that, and yet they continue to exercise the stupid habit of THEFT and receiving KICKBACKS. This council held 47 Meetings BEHIND CLOSED DOORS last year!

They blocked ratepayers from attending meetings because they had so much to hide. I think it was those times where the kickbacks were being shared. If found guilty, they should be incarcerated and they have dragged the Liberal brand through the mud! cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Bandits hungry for cash

By Brendan Rees A mobile canteen worker has described the terrifying moment two teenagers who were brandishing a knife and meat cleaver demanded cash and cigarettes.

Anne Ruys was preparing her food truck when the hooded bandits approached her on McKillop Way in Clyde North about 1.30pm on Thursday 20 November.

Ms Ruys was also with her colleague whose canteen truck was parked behind her outside St Peter's College.

"A car of about four or five men pulled up behind the van," she said.

"Three of them approached her demanding cash and cigarettes and the other two came to me.

"I heard all this commotion ... I looked up and saw the guy taking all of her things.

"They had knives so I was like 'don't hurt me and I'll give you whatever you want - just don't hurt me'," Ms Ruys said, explaining the youths were wielding a meat cleaver and knife about 15cm long.

Ms Ruys said she immediately opened her cash till - which was captured on dashcam footage.

The males took off with about $2,000 in cash and cigarettes.

"We just complied and I said 'as long as you don't hurt me I'll just do whatever.'

"Once they got the stuff they jumped in a car and took off," she explained.

Ms Ruys said the bandits were wearing masks and hoodies.

"I'm really not sure; to me it looked like a surgical sort of mask. They were teenagers I would say.

Ms Ruys, who has worked for the mobile canteen company for two years, said the incident hadn't quite sunk in: "I was just confused.

I didn't know what to do.

CCTV captured a group robbing a food truck in Clyde North.

Picture: CHANNEL 9

Picture: BRENDAN REES

The group steal a cash register in the mobile food canteen.

Picture: CHANNEL 9

the four males - all perceived to be of African appearance - fled the scene in a small white car.

Anyone with information is urged to Con-

tact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Anne Ruys was approached by males armed with knives. 201336 "This is the first time we've ever had anything like this," she said.

Cranbourne police is investigating and say

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STAR NEWS 7

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Gail Kavanagh, volunteer with Gethsemane Church in Cranbourne

What do you love about volunteering with Gethsemane Church?

Working for the Lord, seeing the community happy and interacting with the other volunteers.

Has there been a lot of hard work behind the scenes in organising the Clyde Carols event?

Yes, very much so all glory to God.

THREE … perfect places to explore nature

1

The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne The gardens offer naturelovers the chance to explore 363 hectares of untouched heathlands, wetlands and woodlands. These expansive natural gardens are also home to thriving bird and animal life, including several rare and endangered species.

2

Lysterfield Park Lysterfield Park is the perfect place to explore nature with friends with a huge variety of recreational activities. Spot kangaroos while walking or jogging the 6km Lake Circuit Trail, ride 24km of mountain bike trails or relax at the lakeside picnic areas.

3

Warneet Coastal Track Begin with a walk out on this jetty near the Warneet boat ramp on Rutherford Parade. Visit the beautiful mangroves salt bushes of Western Port Bay and the Warneet coastline from the jetty. There are also many facilities here to make for a pleasant stop. Picnic tables and barbeques are also dotted around the area. The track is flat and well defined. Pack your hat on the sunny days as it is mostly exposed.

How will you spend Christmas Day this year?

After attending the Christmas service at Gethsemane Church, I will be having Christmas lunch with my family at home.

What's your favourite holiday spot?

Rosebud What is favourite book?

The Bible At school I...

I was not that clever but I loved played Basket Ball and Inter School sports What's your favourite movie?

The Sound of Music What's something people don't know about you?

I watch the Sound of Music nearly a dozen times a year.

If you were PM for a day what would you do?

I would change all the laws that go against God's word

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Best concert of live performance you have attended?

The Beatles

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BAG A BARGAIN, ONE DAY ONLY! Friday 29 November • 11am - 8pm Lucky Black Voucher Booth, Great prizes to win!

11AM – 8PM

Food Tasting 11AM – 8PM

Flash Mob Dancing 5PM, 6PM, 7PM

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Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

An artist's impression of Max Pawsey Reserve.

A map of the existing area Max Pawsey Reserve in Narre Warren.

Big plans for overhaul

By Brendan Rees A $19 million masterplan had been unveiled for Narre Warren's Max Pawsey Reserve that will aim to deliver quality sporting facilities and improve the existing drainage function.

Casey Council has released the draft masterplan at the 11-hectare site on Fountain Drive and is inviting public feedback during its exhibition from 22 November to 13 December.

Under the plans, council recommends the following projects will are expected to be rolled out by 2041: Wetland water retention and associated boardwalks New relocated and consolidated AFL/Cricket and scout pavilion New relocated tennis pavilion New relocated Playground

· · · ·

toilet, change, storage and scorer's fa· New cility between both ovals of main oval to district level · Redevelopment size requirements · New electronic score board for main oval · Relocated cricket nets size recreational multi-court (basket· Full ball, netball, soccer) · Permanent events stage · Perimeter and internal path network · Street skate opportunities and extended car parking oppor· Formalised tunities · Reserve lighting and signage improvements Council will also look at opportunities to upgrade CCTV throughout the reserve.

Speaking at the 19 November council meet-

ing, councillor Rex Flannery said it was "an extraordinary masterplan" and hoped projects would begin within the next five years.

"It's also going to cater for the football club, the cricket club, Narre Warren Scouts and also the tennis club," he said.

"I'm pretty sure that we'll get a lot more young people coming back into Max Pawsey Reseve to play football, cricket and also we're trying to get girls netball".

According to a council document, several projects are in progress or already nominated for consideration in council's 10-year indicative capital works program.

Council is working with the State Government and South East Water with the delivery of an integrated water management system of Max Pawsey Reserve which forms a key project within the Fountain Gate Narre Warren CBD Precinct.

Council has also recently been successful in receiving $53,080 funding from the State Government, through the Community Crime Prevention Program for improved path lighting within the reserve, the document outlined.

A project to install a roof over the lawn bowls greens has also had funding committed in the previous 12 months from the club, council, State and Federal Governments.

Further detailed design of all projects identified within the draft masterplan will "interrogate and refine the financial investment required and inform future capital works program nominations," council says.

Community feedback and the finalised masterplan will be presented for adoption at a future Council meeting.

Councillors also voted at their meeting requesting support from State and Federal Government in delivering the project.

End of Lease

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STAR NEWS 11

FOCUS ON … CHRISTMAS IN CRANBOURNE

Snap a photo with Santa Cranbourne Park is at the heart of Cranbourne and this year it has all your Christmas needs covered. Whether you're looking for a special gift for your loved ones, stars to top your tree, a Christmas feast to fill your table or a special outfit for the big day, Cranbourne Park has everything you could possibly need to add a little sparkle to your Christmas.

You can also get your heartwarming family photos done at Cranbourne Park with Santa Happy Snaps.

Santa is available for photographs daily until Christmas Eve 24 December. You can find

him located opposite the Commonwealth Bank.

Santa Happy Snaps cater for family members with sensory needs, with Quiet Santa sessions available. The program invites families with a child who has sensory challenges to have a photo with Santa without the common hustle and bustle and sensory overload.

Families can book an appointment when there is minimum noise before the shopping centre opens to the public and have their child or children photographed with Santa in a safe and friendly environment.

Santa is available for sensory friendly sessions on Sunday 1 December, 8.00am10.00am, and Sunday 8 December, 8.00am10.00am.

Bookings are essential, please call 5996

3166 to book. Normal Santa photography prices apply.

For more information on Christmas at Cranbourne Park visit www.cranbournepark. com.au.

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FOCUS ON … CHRISTMAS IN CRANBOURNE

Local gifts to delight Shop local this Christmas at Thompson Parkway Shopping Centre.

When the silly season arrives, it's good to know that you can tick off all the people on your Christmas list with great gifts from the one place. The locals at Thompson Parkway Shopping Centre understand that you are busy getting organised for Christmas and will help

you keep on top of things.

If you are looking for some Christmas gifts, there are plenty of options. Priceline Pharmacy has a beautiful range of perfume, makeup and hair care specialty sets, lovely toiletry bags and many more gift ideas for both women and men.

Rivers offers fantastic stocking stuffers for

weekly to help with your Christmas shopping too, plus it's hard to go wrong with the right magazine subscription or lotto gift pack.

Send out your Christmas cards and gifts to far-flung friends at the Cranbourne North Post Office too.

Make sure you are looking your best and book in for a styling session with Creative Style Hair & Beauty or treat yourself to a manicure at Splendid Nails.

Get it from the locals this Christmas when you shop at Thompson Parkway Shopping Centre.

all ages with a selection of fun novelty Christmas items, quality underwear, socks and clothing.

For the vehicle owners in your family, visit SuperCheap Auto for inspiration. Practical gift ideas include new windscreen wipers, headlight protectors and car seat covers. Thompson Parkway Newsagency is bringing in new items

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cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

|

STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Pool changerooms ‘foul’

By Brendan Rees A Casey ARC user is fed up with the flithy conditions of the women's temporary changerooms including what appears to be fungus growing on the walls.

But Casey Council has made reassurances cleaners are rostered on day and night as renovations continue.

Currently the changerooms servicing the pool deck are being renovated with improvements to walls, floors, showers and toilets.

According to council, works on the male changeroom started on 10 September and are expected to finish in late November while works on the female changeroom are scheduled to start in February next year and anticipated to take about eight to 12 weeks.

"To ensure operational public facilities during this time, a new male changeroom was constructed and a section of the female toilets was partitioned off for males to use," Casey's manager of active communities Callum Pattie said.

"Cleanliness has been addressed with YMCA management, who have reviewed cleaning hours to cater for this project. Cleaners are rostered on at Casey ARC each day and night," he said.

Berwick resident Jane expressed her concerns of the women's temporary changeroom

saying it was "unacceptably dirty and crowded".

"The other day I noticed fluff on the top walls of the toilets, sticky urine soaked floors, black spots that looked like fungus growing on the walls of the showers," she said.

Jane, who asked her surname to be with-

held, said the women's toilets had been separated by the men's temporary toilets with a piece of wood "for months".

"The men cannot even use their toilets change rooms in the men's area I think, although they have temporary ones set up, families are crowding and queuing up for the family change rooms instead," she said.

Jane also said it was also awkward using a share walkway to the changerooms with men.

"We have to hear the lewd jokes from some men as we get dressed in the women's change room, occasionally.

"I am not offended by that. It is just that the process is taking forever and it must make it very difficult for the poor cleaners to go in and out and do their jobs.

"The women's toilets there were closed a couple of years ago for apparent 'renovations' also and then re-opened months later with nothing at all changed," she said.

"How long does it take to renovate a toilet and change room?"

Survivor Elizabeth steps up for worthy cause

By Brendan Rees At the age of 36 a thyroid cancer diagnosis came "out of the blue" for a healthy Elizabeth Anderson.

The mother of two said she didn't have any symptoms and it was only by chance she found a lump as she was applying moisturiser to her neck.

"It was a shock more than anything else," she recalled.

It's now been nearly 10 years but Elizabeth of Narre Warren was told the news in August that her cancer was in remission.

"It hasn't spread, they took like muscle

from my face because it had actually spread a little bit but they got all that in the first surgery," she said.

"I had my thyroid totally removed and then I had to have two doses of radiation.

"I'm on medication every day. I'm at the Alfred every three months ... still getting scans and stuff," she said.

Elizabeth has no idea how the cancer developed as she has had no family history of the disease.

"It was totally out of the blue; I wasn't expecting to be told that ... I was probably the healthiest I had been since I had mykids,"

she explained.

"I had been a smoker in the past but I had given up in 1999.

"It was even in a weird spot it wasn't even on my thyroid, it was off set, it was somewhere up my neck ... it was an odd case according to my doctors.

"It was all total chance that I found it," she said.

Today, the 44-year-old is preparing to take part in the Walking Stars event, a fun, noncompetitive walking half marathon around Melbourne on Saturday 7 December which raises funds for Cancer Council Victoria.

The 21km journey starts after sundown and takes participants on a magical starlit walk past some of Melbourne's finest landmarks with the aim of raising $300,000 for the fight against cancer.

Elizabeth says her sister gave her the motivation to participate which she contends is "going to be tough but we're looking forward to it".

"I have never walked any further than the girls school - their primary school is probably 5km away".

Anyone of any fitness may get involved. For more information visit www.walkingstars.org. au

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Cranbourne Star News Digital Edition

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Thursday, 30 August, 2018

CRANBOURNE

‘Trains every 10 minutes’

Scott’s a top dad

Cavs close in on title double

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SPORT

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com.au

Bridget O'Toole has tried to block out the painful memory the day her husband was tragically killed by two stab wounds to the upper chest.

"I've got to be kinder to myself because you torture yourself thinking could've done more," says Mrs O'Toole. "Survivor guilt isn't good."

It was 5pm on 12 July 2013 when a man wielding a 20-centimetre carving knife entered Bridget and Dermot O'Toole's jewellery store in Hastings.

"I thought it was a customer coming in and I just got up to serve him," she said.

Scott’s a top dad

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com.au

Property Lift out

She’s our hero

By Brendan Rees Bridget O'Toole has tried to block out the painful memory the day her husband was tragically killed by two stab wounds to the upper chest.

"I've got to be kinder to myself because you torture yourself thinking could've done more," says Mrs O'Toole. "Survivor guilt isn't good."

It was 5pm on 12 July 2013 when a man wielding a 20-centimetre carving knife entered Bridget and Dermot O'Toole's jewellery store in Hastings.

"I thought it was a customer coming in and I just got up to serve him," she said.

However Mrs O'Toole, of Lyndhurst, was attacked by the armed assailant who pushed her into a glass cabinet and stabbed her several times.

"He was screaming like a lunatic," she recalled.

During the attack Mr O'Toole, who suffered from Parkinson's Disease, came out from the workshop to defend his wife and began wrestling with the assailant.

"We were just trying to fight him off ... Dermot was desperately trying to save me."

"Dermot fell over, he tripped over and he turned on him and stabbed him to death," she said.

Mrs O'Toole attempted to pull the offender away from her husband and in doing so she was

further assaulted. The assailant then ran out of the shop.

Mr O'Toole, 64, was fatally wounded and tragically died at the scene.

Mrs O'Toole was taken to hospital where she had to undergo plastic surgery for the extensive serious stab and slash wounds and the glass shards that were embedded in her back.

For her actions, Mrs O'Toole was awarded the 2018 Gold Clarke Medal during a presentation at the Melbourne Town Hall on Thursday 23 August.

"It was a beautiful day," says Mrs O'Toole. "I was totally humbled and to be deemed worthy

/Cranbournestarnews

‘Trains every 10 minutes’

rea

Property Lift out

She’s our hero

By Brendan Rees

Thursday, 30 August, 2018

40¢ Inc. GST

further assaulted. The assailant then ran out of the shop.

Mr O'Toole, 64, was fatally wounded and tragically died at the scene.

Mrs O'Toole was taken to hospital where she had to undergo plastic surgery for the extensive serious stab and slash wounds and the glass shards that were embedded in her back.

For her actions, Mrs O'Toole was awarded the 2018 Gold Clarke Medal during a presentation at the Melbourne Town Hall on Thursday 23 August.

"It was a beautiful day," says Mrs O'Toole. "I was totally humbled and to be deemed worthy of such a prestigious award I couldn't believe it."

The medal is an award of The Royal Humane Society of Australasia and is the Society's highest award for the most outstanding case of bravery.

Mr O'Toole was posthumously awarded the Star of Courage in 2017 - Australia's highest bravery accolades which recognises "acts of conspicuous courage in circumstances of great peril".

The robber, Gavin Perry, 27, was high after taking ice and on parole at the time of the murder.

He was jailed for 27 years in 2014 for the crime.

Mrs O'Toole remembers her husband of 41 years as a wonderful man who was a funny, kind and loyal man."I had the best husband and we had a great life together," she said. "Life has just been horrible since."

Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp presents the 2018 Gold Clarke Medal to Bridget O’Toole. 184550 Picture: FIONA BASILE

Bridget O’Toole with her 2018 Gold Clarke Medal.

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cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe Elizabeth Anderson will tackle a half marathon walk around Melbourne to raise funds for Cancer Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Council Victoria. 201475 14 STAR NEWS 24/7 E erge cy Assist, Visii g Specialist Suite & Hairdresser.

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GIVE THE KIDS A GREAT START

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RENOWNED NEERIM JUNCTION - 143.7 ACRES

LAUDERS GROUP has recently launched another quality development in Officer Scholar’s Row. This development is less than 50 kilometres south-east of Melbourne and consists of 56 boutique home sites that are ideally positioned on the fringe of the urban centre.

Sales manager Paul Archibald said lot sizes range from 350 to 475 square metres, prices start from an average of $299,000 and there was also a selection of quality house and land packages available from some of Victoria’s leading builders.

“We have an estate with level land, Thursday, 28 November, 2019

which makes building quick and easy,” Mr Archibald said.

“Scholar’s Row is ideally located extremely close to some of the region’s best schools including Berwick Grammar, which is virtually next door and Minaret College, so it’s ideal for families looking to provide children with a great start in life,” he said.

Scholar’s Row is also only minutes from several major amenities and facilities. These include several sporting facilities such as football ovals, basketball courts, netball courts, golf courses and tennis courts. There are also excellent walking and cycling trails nearby.

As far as connectivity is concerned, Scholar’s Row has two nearby railway stations and offers direct access to the Monash Freeway and Princes Highway.

“Scholar’s Row genuinely offers the convenience of a thriving suburb with a beautiful Australian setting.

“We’re excited to be bringing it to market at a time when buyers are looking for location, amenity and affordable prices.

Scholar’s Row genuinely ticks all the boxes.”

For sales enquiries contact Paul Archibald 0400 993 533 or arch@lauders. com.au for further information visit scholarsrow.com.au ●

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NEWS

Faith leaders are united

By Brendan Rees About 40 people of different faiths have gathered for a community forum to discuss ways of eradicating family violence at Bunjil Place on Thursday 21 November.

Organised by the Casey Multi-Faith Network, the evening saw community leaders speak about whether religion and faith played a role in family violence.

People of different faiths including Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Christian, Scientology, and Jewish were in attendance.

In his opening address, president of the Casey Multi-Faith Network Adam Sadiqzai said it was his wish everyone could work together and "feel free to ask questions no matter how confronting in an atmosphere of peace and respect".

"It is my belief that through peace, understanding, respect and the willingness to learn we can build a harmonious community," he said.

"Alarmingly for the past five years the City of Casey has consistently had the highest number of reported family violence incidents in Victoria".

Reverend Ray McCluskey, Minister of Cranbourne Regional Uniting Church was one of four-panellists invited to speak at the forum.

"We anecdotally see the effect that family and domestic violence is having in our community," he said.

"I don't think that there can be any argument, that family violence and in particular, family violence which is perpetrated predominately against women and children by men, which crosses all thresholds of religious, cultural, socio economic, and the various demographic groups who make up our society," Rev McCluskey said.

"We don't pretend to have all the answers, and we still have a long way to go. But we do

Panellists speak at the forum. 201334

Members of the community gather for the Casey Casey Multi-Faith Network's family violence forum.

Picture: BRENDAN REES believe that our church needs to be a place of welcome and hospitality to all".

Panellist Jasbir Singh, founder and director of the Sikh Australia Support for Family Violence (SASFV), said family violence was not a migrant problem but rather a "human problem".

"It covers across all faiths, all status, whether you're a minister or Prime Minister or president or lawyer or policeman - everyone including me".

"We need to condemn the behaviour and changing attitudes of not just men but every human being".

Mr Singh, who runs workshops called 'Healthy Workshops, Healthy Families' which is dedicated to raising awareness of the realities of family violence, also discussed how the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, denounced meaningless rituals and promoted equality for women.

"The principles of Sikhism state that women have the same souls as men and thus possess an equal right to cultivate their spirituality with equal chances of achieving salvation," he said.

Guest speaker Hayat Doughhan, founder of the El-Emaan Muslim Woman's Support Group, discussed how Islam had pioneered new regulations regarding the status of women.

"According the Koran the relationship between the husband and wife should be based on mutual love and kindness" she said.

Also speaking on the panel was Andrea Shepherd who talked about her role as a senior practitioner of community development and strategic engagement coordinator at South East Community Links which works with people of migrant and refugee backgrounds in addressing the gendered drivers of violence against women.

"One thing that really struck with me is around the stereotype constructions of masculinity and feminism, she said.

"The way we construct masculinity as well is toxic because we are saying that men should be a certain way and act a certain way which can really have a negative impact on men".

Students show art smarts

By Brendan Rees Cranbourne East's Marnebek School has welcomed hundreds of visitors to its annual art expo.

The multi-purpose room was adorned with a huge display of student artwork including painting, sculptures and ceramics across all year levels from 21-22 November.

Titled 'Colour Your World,' the art show also featured interactive displays inspired by Japanese Artist, Yayoi Kusama and her love of polka dots.

Students were inspired to create pieces by great artists and contemporary artists - which they prepared throughout the year.

Visual art teacher Larraine Blackburn said the students did an amazing job.

"The art process has developed other skills such as critical thinking, resilience and confidence to have a go," she said.

"Students , families, staff and other visitors were encouraged to place polka dots across two room set installations. The end results look fantastic.

"There was also opportunity to dress as Yayoi Kusama in her very distinctive red polka dot outfit and red wig."

Ms Blackburn said visitors to the exhibition could also dress as artist Frida Kahlo and sit in the Frida Exhibit surrounded by her inspired artworks.

"This was a very popular photo opportunity for students and adults".

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Student Samuel in the Yayoi Kusama style section of the art expo. 200755 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS fabulous cardboard 'Weeping Woman.'

The senior school VCAL cafe class provided refreshments and visitors could sit in the cafe surrounded by gratitude and positivity quotes.

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Ivana dressed up in the Freda Kahlo section of the art expo. 200755 18 STAR NEWS

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Marnebek School student Samuel and his sister Brianna in the Yayoi Kusama style section. 200755

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

12433237-LB48-19

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NEWS

Train services ‘disappoint’

By Brendan Rees Train commuters' woes continue on the Cranbourne line as performance targets again fell short for the month of October.

New figures, released by Public Transport Victoria show the punctuality rate was 86.3 per cent. The result was short of Metro Trains' performance benchmark of 92 per cent.

Overall, 43 trains were cancelled for the month on the Cranbourne line or on average, just over one train a day.

However, across the board, Metro Trains says it delivered 90.3 per cent of services on time in October.

A Metro spokesperson said there were punctuality improvements on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines in October - "but we know there is more work to do to give passengers the service they deserve".

"Performance was impacted by a number of external incidents during the month, including vandalism, trespassers and police operations, as well as other incidents within Metro's control," the spokesperson said.

"Our priority is delivering a more consistent service for Melbourne - that means raising

This graph shows the monthly train performance statistics each month for 2019. the bar on performance, meeting our targets, with train crowding caused by a lack of serand ensuring passengers can have confidence vices," he said. in the service we provide".

"Late and cancelled trains can play havoc Public Transport Users Association spokes- with passengers' days. The Cranbourne line man Daniel Bowen said it was "disappointing also suffers from trains being terminated short but not surprising" the Cranbourne line con- at Dandenong to prevent flow-on delays. tinued to perform badly.

"The growing southeast needs a rail system "Until the single track is duplicated, punc- people can rely on, so Metro and the governtuality will continue to be a problem, along ment must work harder to improve the ser-

vice," Mr Bowen said.

State coalition transport spokesman David Davis labelled the Cranbourne results as a "disaster" with almost 14 per cent of trains late - 468 trains in October failing to meet the punctuality rules.

"Despite billions spent on crossing removals and all the inconvenience, Cranbourne line trains would struggle to out-perform Puffing Billy. It's hopeless," he said.

"This follows Daniel Andrews' bizarre plan to hide his Government's abject failure by increasing the scheduled journey times on 93 daily services by up to five minutes each trip".

Trespasser incidents and police operations delayed 230 trains on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines in October. Other incidents included a person hit by a train at Pakenham during the morning peak on 29 October and a trespasser sitting on rail tracks at Clayton causing delays to Pakenham line services on 16 October.

"There is strong collaboration between the Department, Metro Trains and Victoria Police to prevent illegal behaviours and catch those who vandalise the network and delay our passengers," Department of Transport Head of Transport Services Jeroen Weimar said.

Magistrate hears violent dad is a ‘law to himself’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A 42-year-old man terrifyingly erupted, throttled and threw around his wife 'Tracey' and grabbed his son by the throat after his son leapt to her defence.

Aside from the physical bruises, Tracey still feels she's being punished by her estranged husband who she describes as "arrogant" and a "law to himself".

The harm is mainly financial. He's starved them of funds and cut off services like Netflix.

They've relied on the support of welfare agency WAYSS. "He is the type of person who won't be told what to do."

Two days after being convicted in Dandenong Magistrates' Court, he wants to see his kids again.

A judge has barred him from any contact with the family for two years under an intervention order. So he's made the request legally - via a solicitor's letter.

All had been fine in their 10-year-plus marriage until she caught her husband having an affair 12 months ago.

He then turned abusive and violent.

"He blamed me for it because I couldn't get over it. He doesn't like it, he thinks he can do whatever he wants.

"He doesn't like women standing up for themselves."

The man has breached intervention orders before. He's been in front of court twice.

The first time, Tracey got an apprehended violence order in 2018. That was after he assaulted her, smashed her phone, flyscreen, glass panel and a hole in the wall.

He threatened to burn her and other family members in the house.

A magistrate put the man on a good behaviour bond.

On the second attack, Tracey remembers being held by the throat against the fridge. He was in a "psychotic rage".

"I was bracing myself to be punched in the face.

"His arm was pulled back and his fist was clenched.

"I thought he's going to knock me out."

The worst part was when he throttled their teenage son, she says.

"If you hurt my son I'll kill you," she told him.

At his second appearance at court on 27 October, the man's lawyer argued against a conviction.

"Your client is looking at a jail term," the magistrate retorted.

"A conviction is the least of his problems."

The man's offending was the "absolute upper end of family violence", the judge said.

"I can tell you that your children look to you on how to behave - and this type of behaviour sends some pretty horrifying messages.

"But the way your son acted to protect his mother indicates that he knew how you were behaving was very, very wrong.

"That's why he rang the police - that's a terrible, terrible position to put a young man in."

The judge said it was "really sad listening" to the victim impact statements of the children.

"There's been a lot of damage done and you've a great deal of repair work to do."

Despite coming "very, very close" to jail, the man was given an 18-month community corrections order .

It includes 200 hours of unpaid work, supervision, mental health treatment, anger management and a mens behaviour course to "challenge the way you think and act".

After presenting himself as remorseful, the man later commented supportively to a Facebook post on One Nation leader Pauline Hanson decrying the 'lack' of father's rights.

According to Tracey, he said: "Spot on, Pauline".

"I thought you're a d***head to say that after what you've done," she said.

"He's the boy who cried wolf."

A sobering fact remains that there were 2391 reported family-violence incidents in the last 12-month recording period in Greater Dandeong.

Nearly 200 a month, and more than six a day. And much more than the number of reported assaults (1725) and burglaries (1268).

Tracey says penalties need to be beefed up so "men know they have to toe the line".

"Why are they getting away with it?

"Why are they getting a slap on the wrist?

No wonder so many women are dying each day.

"By the time they're on their third or fourth charge, some men have killed before then."

Tracey stayed with him longer than she should have, she says. She left because she could no longer be a "punching bag" - even though the kids wanted to be with him.

But after his last outbreak of violence against her traumatised son, that's changed.

"At the end of the day, the kids don't want to see him anymore."

Councillor calls for assist

By Brendan Rees A Casey councillor wants Victorian law regarding assistance dogs to be in line with other states.

Mayfield Ward councillor Amanda Stapledon and staunch advocate of disability equality, says there are many "inconsistencies and gaps" with the laws relating to assistance animals in Victoria, particularly around training, education and accountability.

At council's 7 November meeting, Cr Stapledon referred to the Victorian Law Reform Commission's 2008 final report into assistance animals which found "many problems" with the laws relating to assistance animals in Victoria.

Currently, there are no uniform training standards for assistance animals in Victoria and people who train assistance animals are not legally required to have any qualifications or experience, leaving people with disability may be "subject to humiliating questioning about the nature of their disability," the report found.

People may also be denied access to places, goods and services to which they have a "legal right," it added.

Cr Stapledon successfully raised a notice of motion at the council meeting for council to advocate to the State Government and local members of Parliament calling for an 'Assistance Animals Act' to be passed. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

According to Assistance Dogs Australia CEO Richard Lord, the states were reliant on the Disability Discrimination Act which "allows any dog to be an assistance dog ... which is detrimental to real assistance dog and people with disabilities".

"Unfortunately there are fake assistance dogs and poorly trained assistance dogs which cause havoc," he said.

"We get this complaint all the time.

"The state legislation should be ensuring that only suitable dogs are being accredited through suitable organisations".

A Guide Dogs Victoria spokesperson said within Australia, recent changes to the ACT Animal Welfare Act has resulted in a working group being formed to consider regulation and registration of Guide, Assistance and Service Dogs.

"While there was a difference in the law across Australian states on access rights for Guide Dog and Assistance Dog pups and dogs in training, all state-based legislation and the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act gave Guide Dog handlers working with their Guide Dog the right to access all public spaces and businesses including shops, restaurants, accommodation and all modes of transport including rideshare services.

"Working Guide Dogs are easily recognised within the community by their iconic harness, the wearing of their medallion as issued by

Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon with resident Stephen Flitton and his assistance dog.

Picture: CONTRIBUTED their training organisation which is accredited under the International Guide Dog Federation and the carriage of a Guide Dog ID card by the Handler," the spokesperson said.

"Internationally, and in Australia, it is rec-

ognised that clear ID is beneficial in removing ambiguity around access rights for service and assistance dogs. The International Guide Dog Federation and Assistance Dogs International are undertaking work in this area."

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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STAR NEWS 19

IBAC HEARING

Land sale no success fee

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Casey councillor Geoff Ablett stood to lose a “s*** load” of money due to faltering property projects in Cranbourne West, according to an alleged intercepted call with developer John Woodman.

The tapped call was played at an IBAC Operation Sandon hearing on 25 November.

Mr Woodman told Cr Ablett in the phone call in November last year that “you and I have borne ... unbelievable angst and we’ve both lost a s*** load of money because of Cranbourne West or because of this intersection.”

The projects included Amendment C219, which involved the rezoning of industrial land to residential land - and huge windfall profits for developer Leighton.

At the IBAC hearing, Mr Woodman said he was pre-empting that Amendment C219 may not go ahead due to a recent article in The Age about the H3 intersection project in Cranbourne West.

He said that he would buy part of Cr Ablett’s rural property in Gippsland for $350,000 if Amendment C219 was approved.

“I had told Geoffrey that I was keen to buy some land in South Gippsland.

Casey councillor Geoff Ablett's property sale to developer John Woodman was under IBAC scrutiny.

186397 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS “If C219 did not occur then I would more than likely pull out of the contract at some stage.”

Mr Woodman had paid a $150,000 deposit on the property.

Under questioning from counsel assisting IBAC, Michael Tovey, Mr Woodman declined to call it a “success fee” for Cr Ablett.

“He wasn’t capable of voting on anything,” Mr Woodman said - referring to Cr Ablett’s de-

clared conflict of interest on voting on Woodman-related projects.

“It was a friendship agreement that I would share some of the profits that you have indicated to me before was associated with (Amendment) 219.”

During the tapped call, Cr Ablett appears to ask Mr Woodman for advice on handling Casey councillor Rosalie Crestani’s wavering support on the H3 intersection issue.

“Well, you just tell me what you want and I’ll tell Rosalie and I’m more than happy to tell Sam (Aziz), ‘This is the way it’s going to happen’.”

Mr Tovey asked Mr Woodman why Mr Ablett was “waiting on you for direction so that he can influence other councillors.

“I guess it’s a friendship that’s been built over many years, sir,” Mr Woodman said.

“And the mere fact that he thought I was the best person to be able to clarify the questions that she obviously had in relation to H3.”

IBAC has alleged that Cr Ablett had received $330,000 from Mr Woodman.

In a report in Sunday Herald Sun, Cr Ablett denied he took bribes to influence Casey planning decisions. He is due to testify at IBAC this week.

Funding, favours and the value of ‘friends’

By Andrew Cantwell IBAC investigations into property dealings within the City of Casey have revealed that being a ‘friend’ of wealthy property developer John Woodman certainly pays.

In public hearings over the last week, the ‘value’ of having Mr Woodman’s friendship has been accounted in excruciating detail.

In his opening remarks Counsel assisting Michael Tovey QC indicated he would present evidence that showed about $1.2 million had been directed to just two of Casey Council’s 11 councillors.

The hearings would also look at gifts, pro bono services, donations and other hospitality more generally, Mr Tovey said.

Mr Tovey said that $1.2 million sum consisted of about $900,000 to Cr Sam Aziz and about $300,000 to Cr Geoff Ablett.

These were paid in services and consultancies that Mr Tovey generally characterised as overly generous and of questionable value.

And over the course of the past week the payments detailed at the hearings by Mr Tovey continued to stack up.

As did the favours.

They included: Payment of a $30,000 tax bill for Cr Aziz.

Payment of $25,000 towards a credit card bill for Cr Ablett.

Payment of $5000 for Mr Ablett’s share in a racehorse.

The ‘investment’ of $600,000 in loose cash delivered in a suitcase by Cr Aziz to Mr

· · · ·

Woodman around the time of his marriage breakdown.

Help with a property boundary realignment for Cr Ablett’s Gippsland farm property.

Help for a time with out-of-hours care for Cr Amanda Stapledon’s disabled adult son.

Help with obtaining adult permanent accommodation with Blairlogie, where Cr Stapledon’s son is cared for.

And various fundraisers and donations towards state and local elections involving councillors Ablett, Stapledon, Rowe and Serey.

While the nature of Mr Woodman’s beneficial relationship with Cr Ablett - going back at least to 2012 - has been probed a number of times through the hearings, Mr Woodman has been much clearer in identifying his relationship with Cr Stapledon.

In the fifth day of hearings, on Monday 25 November, IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich QC asked Mr Woodman directly: “Were you friends?”

“Well, I looked after her or attempted to give her some assistance with her son who was mentally unwell. Friends, yes, I would put her in the category of a friend, yes, sir,” Mr Woodman affirmed.

In relation to Cr Aziz, on the fourth day of hearings on Thursday 21 November, during revelation of surveillance coverage of a meeting in early 2018, Mr Tovey asserted that IBAC operatives had overheard Mr Woodman refer to Cr Aziz in terms of a friendship and that there had “been business” between them - an assertion that Mr Woodman was not able to confirm.

· · · ·

“But the term ‘friendship’ may have been used,” Mr Woodman said.

In the course of the hearings, Mr Woodman has been accused of having undue influence - of pulling the strings behind the scenes - of having a close and controlling relationship with councillors and politicians in relation to property developments at many levels, to further his interests either directly through Watsons-related entities or in relation to his son Heath’s development company Wolfdene.

One of the aims of the IBAC hearings was to give transparency to - to shine a light on - ‘friendships’ between public officers and developers that had not happened through other public channels - not through council meetings, not through press releases and not through public statements by those involved.

The the light of that inquiry some of these friendships appear pale - or worse, transparent. They seem entered into more for utility than for admiration, honour or respect.

The release by IBAC of transcripts of intercepted phone conversations between Mr Woodman and some of his associates and targetted councillors certainly paint in them a different light.

Cr Aziz is talked about as a d***head and a fool, Cr Stapledon is referred to as “Fat Mandy” and - in the run-up to last year’s mayoral race - Mr Woodman withheld information from aspirant Cr Ablett on dealings with Cr Stapledon, who went on to become mayor.

Friendship has different meanings to different people, but few would confuse an alliance of convenience with a true friendship.

An IBAC-supplied image of Sam Aziz and John Woodman in a Subway outlet in Skye on 20 April 2018.

The revelations coming out of the IBAC hearings may have some asking whether the price of ‘friendship’ was worth the cost.

Developer paid off Ablett’s debt, denies act was corrupt

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Property developer John Woodman paid off Casey councillor Geoff Ablett’s credit card debt and bought “75 per cent” of the councillor’s farm, an anti-corruption hearing was told.

Mr Woodman said he paid off the $15,000 debt during Cr Ablett’s preselection as a Liberal candidate for the seat of Cranbourne in early 2014, Mr Woodman confirmed during day 3 of the IBAC Operation Sandon hearing on 20 November.

Cr Ablett requested help due to being incapable of meeting his monthly credit card payments, Mr Woodman said.

The would-be state MP feared that his lack of “financial stability” would affect his candidacy.

Mr Woodman denied the payment was “corrupt” or “improper”.

He couldn’t recall why he made the pay20 STAR NEWS

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ment in a “disguised” way - by depositing cash into Cr Ablett’s account using an unsigned deposit slip.

“I believed that I was assisting his candidacy in Cranbourne more than corruption, sir,” Mr Woodman said.

“I didn’t believe that I was attempting at any stage to secure his support in a council.”

In 2013 and 2014, Cr Ablett received two further $5000 cash deposits from Mr Woodman, who said they were also to clear credit card debt.

One included a deposit slip with Mr Woodman using a false name.

Mr Woodman agreed with Mr Tovey’s assertion that Cr Ablett afterwards continued to vote on Woodman-linked planning issues Brompton Lodge and Amendment C219 at council meetings despite the financial arrangement.

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

He later said Cr Ablett, who was mayor at the time, excused himself from a key Brompton Lodge vote in 2014.

Counsel assisting IBAC Michael Tovey asserted that Cr Ablett only declared conflicts of interest after a Victorian Ombudsman investigated the council in November 2014.

The investigation was unable to substantiate allegations given the Ombudsman’s “limited powers“, Commissioner Robert Redlich observed.

Mr Woodman had also bought a $15,000 share in a horse Prima Facie from Cr Ablett, and sponsored Cr Ablett’s Casey Radio show Equine Hour, he said.

In January 2015, Mr Woodman sent Cr Ablett a memo, which describes the councillor being paid monthly by Woodman’s company Watsons for “management of the family equine interests”.

Mr Woodman also told of buying “over 20 acres” of Cr Ablett’s farm, as part of a deal for Watsons realigning the road fronting the property.

“The account for the costs associated with those works was far in excess of what Mr Ablett indicated to me that he was able to pay,” Mr Woodman said.

“So we reached agreement that I would buy part of his property.”

Mr Woodman said he’d arranged to pay $350,000 for part of the land without seeking a council valuation of the land. The purchase also didn’t include any dwelling.

Cr Ablett had purchased the entire tract of land for $250,000, Mr Woodman said.

“At this stage we are still applying for planning permits for dwellings on the property which upon receiving will make a reasonable increase in the value of the property.” cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

IBAC HEARING

Developer’s ‘script’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A property developer’s consultant was writing the “script” for a Casey councillor ahead of a council meeting vote on 16 October 2018, an anti-corruption hearing has heard.

Backed by a series of tapped phone calls and undercover photos, the IBAC inquiry’s ‘counsel assisting’ Michael Tovey probed developer John Woodman - who is known as the “blood donor” by some Casey councillors.

A call was tapped in which Mr Woodman’s consultant Megan Schutz coaches Cr Sam Aziz just before the council voted on the early release of residential lots near the ‘H3’ intersection in Hall Road, Cranbourne West.

“So what - what is the recommendation that we’re seeking tonight?” Cr Aziz asks Ms Schutz. “‘Cause I actually haven’t gone into my emails yet, I’ve just been flatout.”

Ms Schutz replies: “OK. So your recommendation tonight is that Council does not support the grant of secondary consent to defer the intersection works.”

She also recites community safety arguments for Cr Aziz to ward off opponents to his alternative motion.

At the IBAC hearing, Mr Tovey asserted that Ms Schutz acts “like a ventriloquist expressing to Mr Aziz what he has to say to council about an issue which he hasn't prepared at all”, Mr

Sam Aziz and John Woodman in a Subway outlet in Skye.

Tovey asserted.

“I disagree, sir,” Mr Woodman replied.

“I think that she's pointing out to him the arguments as to why a deferment is not in the best interests of the community.”

After Cr Aziz’s motion was passed at the council, Ms Schutz tells Mr Woodman in another tapped call that Cr Aziz is a “d***head” for not following instructions.

“I think we won,” Ms Schutz says - despite Cr Aziz doing a “crap job tonight”.

“He didn’t do what I asked him to do. Anyway, he’s an absolute fool that guy.”

Meanwhile Cr Aziz’s colleague Geoff Ablett excused himself from voting due to a conflict of interest with Mr Woodman.

But he was “working behind the scenes” to support Mr Woodman’s position, Mr Tovey asserted.

IBAC alleges that a developer linked to Mr Woodman wanted an “accelerated” building of the H3 intersection.

It also hoped to offload the costs to Casey and neighbouring developer Dacland.

After repeated denials to the hearing, Mr Woodman admitted that he had a financial interest in the issue.

A bank document showed he was a $14 million guarantor for a housing development opposite the H3 intersection.

The inquiry tabled a photo depicting Cr Sam Aziz seated with Mr Woodman in a Subway outlet. Investigators claimed the pair discussed the return of Cr Aziz’s money and Mr Woodman referring to the pair’s “friendship”.

In other explosive evidence, Mr Woodman admitted that he signed a “sham” backdated loan document for $370,000 to ‘replace’ an earlier $600,000 loan with Cr Aziz.

Cr Aziz had allegedly loaned and delivered the $600,000 in cash in a suitcase to Mr Woodman - to hide the money from his ex-wife.

“The $370,000 loan was a total sham, wasn't it?” Mr Tovey asked.

“Yes. Mr Aziz instructed my people, yes, sir,” Mr Woodman replied

Graley named as ‘our good friend’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Former state MP Judith Graley has been named as “our good friend in the SE (South East)” in an email exchange between a property developer and his lobbyist, an IBAC inquiry has heard.

Ms Graley was couched as developer John Woodman and his associates’ last hope in swaying the State Government to rezone industrial land in Cranbourne West during the emails on 20 June 2018.

“I would say we need a miracle, pretty sad after 1 million and five years (fortunately none of our money),” Mr Woodman wrote.

“Only JG can deliver. Fingers crossed.”

At stake was a $200 million residential estate proposal by developer Leightons and a $2 million ’success fee’ for Mr Woodman personally, the IBAC Operation Sandon inquiry heard.

Mr Woodman told the inquiry he’d been funding Ms Graley’s political campaigning but denied she lobbied for the rezoning out of a “sense of obligation” to him.

She was a “strong supporter” of the Amendment C219 rezoning, Mr Woodman said.

Ms Graley had been a “friend” going back to her time as a Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor, one of the “main instigators” of Mr Woodman’s Martha Cove project, he said.

And she had the “ability to speak directly to the Minister for Planning”.

In an earlier email to Mr Woodman, his lobbyist and former Labor candidate Phil Staindl described Ms Graley briefing him on her lobbying.

She approached “the Minister”, then discussed the matter in more detail to his delegate ‘AH’ who said the department were concerned about the potential loss of employment-related land in Casey.

In response, Ms Graley “spelled out” that not rezoning the land would be “politically disastrous” and against the “overwhelming views of local residents”, Mr Staindl wrote.

“She went so far as to predict it will (be) the difference between winning and losing the seat of Cranbourne.”

Ms Graley told of a proposal by Jayco owner Gerry Ryan to build a caravan manufacturing factory on the site. She predicted it would create “enormous angst” among residents, Mr Staindl wrote.

After 12 years as a Labor MP, Ms Graley did not recontest her Narre Warren South seat at the 2018 state election.

The inquiry heard that Mr Woodman donated more than $150,000 to Labor ahead of the election, including $20,000 to the successful Cranbourne candidate Pauline Richards and $20,380 to then-Attorney General and Keysborough MP Martin Pakula.

Mr Pakula has disputed the size of the donation.

Mr Woodman initially said he had no expectation of Ms Richards’ lobbying for Amendment C219 despite “upping” his initial $5000 donation to her campaign.

Counsel assisting IBAC Michael Tovey called this a “lie”.

“You are saying here that your agreement to up the ante was because she had agreed to support your business interest?”

“After she was elected, sir; yes, sir,” Mr Woodman said.

In another tapped conversation on 29 October 2018, Mr Woodman describes Ms Richards as “impressive”.

“I’ve got great faith ... after meeting Pauline, if anyone can get this over the line, she can.

“I mean Jacinta Allan is probably the most impressive female that I’ve met but this chick’s not far behind them.”

The inquiry also heard that Mr Woodman staged a fundraiser at Crown Towers “some years before” for former Cranbourne MP Jude Perera, Ms Graley and Mr Pakula.

Mr Woodman had also donated $16,425 for mailouts for Liberal candidate and now Casey mayor Susan Serey.

Mr Tovey asked the developer if he thought in the past four years that his conduct with Casey Council and Amendment C219 constituted a crime.

“No, sir,” Mr Woodman said.

C219 land a poison pill

By Andrew Cantwell Any attempt to rezone Cranbourne West industrial land at the centre of corruption allegations being investigated by IBAC must by now be political poison.

The rezoning under a Casey planning scheme amendment - live since 2014 - has not yet been determined, having been deferred since late last year by Planning Minister Richard Wynne.

After explosive allegations over the last week at IBAC’s public hearings into planning processes at the City of Casey there can be no guarantee that every stage of the rezoning application hasn’t been tainted.

The man championing the rezoning, Watsons principal John Woodman has been shown to have an extensive network of influence in planning matters at all levels at the City of Casey Council and into the upper reaches of the State Government.

They also show Mr Woodman had an intimate knowledge of the power balances and voting tendencies of deeply partisan groups of Casey councillors.

Accusations have been made that Mr Woodman and an associate, planning lawyer Megan Schutz, have improperly ‘scripted’ and ‘directed’ particular votes of the actual council over a number of years.

These accusations were denied by Mr Woodman, who claimed his efforts were aimed at clarifying and offering alternative recommendations to those of Casey planning officers.

There were allegations Mr Woodman was even involved in the toppling of former longserving Casey CEO Mike Tyler, who was particularly resistant to the C219 rezoning.

Further allegations accuse Mr Woodman and Ms Schutz of forming a community lobby group, the Save Cranbourne West Residents Action Group, and using it to channel correspondence favourable to C219 to councillors, politicians and government officials, for use in justifying any rezoning by showing ‘community’ support.

Investigations have also detailed his substantial donations to state and local elections dating back to 2014. Mr Woodman in response said it was not illegal to donate to political parties in Australia.

Several tapped phone conversations played at the hearings indicate the extraordinary degree of access, the strategic placement of favourable information and the leverage Mr Woodman may have been able to apply at all levels, which may have subverted orderly and proper planning processes.

In light of the extraordinary details coming to light through the IBAC hearings, any attempt to now put the tick of approval on C219 will surely invite a fresh round of questions and scrutiny.

Suitcase loan ‘corruption’: developer

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Property developer John Woodman has conceded a financial arrangement involving Cr Sam Aziz’s $600,000 in a suitcase looked like “corruption”, an IBAC hearing was told.

During the Operation Sandon inquiry, counsel assisting IBAC Michael Tovey asked Mr Woodman: “How do you now recognise that this conduct might be interpreted as?”

“As corruption, sir,” Mr Woodman said.

“It was never my intention to attempt to persuade anybody to take a course of action that they wouldn’t otherwise have taken through the provision of finances or of any action,“ he added.

Cr Aziz had also proposed Mr Woodman buying Cr Aziz’s house in Berwick for $540,000 with Cr Aziz staying there rent-free, Mr Woodman said.

The amount was referred to in a document that Mr Woodman’s secretary tried to smuggle cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

out - along with a copy of the loan contract during a raid of his office by IBAC investigators, the hearing heard.

The document also referred to Cr Aziz’s ‘loan’ of $600,000 - which he brought in cash in a suitcase to Mr Woodman as a means of hiding money from his ex-wife.

According to IBAC’s analysis, Cr Aziz was given a $220,000 return on top of his loan, mostly within 10 months.

It was “an act of goodwill as a consequence of him and the council supporting my charity”, Mr Woodman said.

It included Mr Woodman’s company paying Cr Aziz’s $30,000 tax bill in February 2018 as well as $15,000 monthly “interest” payments.

In repaying the loan, money was transferred via the accounts of Cr Aziz’s mother and Cr Aziz’s then-fiance.

Some monies were also paid to settle with Cr Aziz’s ex-wife.

On 3AW on 20 November, Cr Aziz said that

“two thirds” of the alleged $900,000 received from property developer John Woodman was the councillor’s own money.

He said he’d withdrawn the cash to stop his former wife from “quarantining or shutting down” money in his accounts.

He delivered it in a suitcase to Mr Woodman as an investment in mezzanine finance at a five per cent interest rate.

Mr Woodman conceded the loan interest payments were close to a 30 per cent annual rate.

Cr Aziz denied ever accepting a ‘bribe’ describing the allegations as “absolute nonsense.”

“I have never ever in my entire career of 35 years of public service to receive a bribe for anything.

“I would never accept it upon myself to receive a bribe.

“What I have done is acted in the best interests of my community.”

Cr Sam Aziz received $220,000 overpayment on his $600,000 loan to property developer John Woodman, IBAC alleges.

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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STAR NEWS 21

BUSINESS PROFILE

NEWS

Opening day Gippsland's long-awaited largest display village is set to launch on Saturday 7 December, with a fun and information-packed day for the whole family.

Based at the heart of the idyllic Ferntree Ridge Estate in Drouin, LandGipps invites residents from near and far to see, touch and explore 13 inspiring display homes. With a total of 19 homes set to be completed by February 2020, Ferntree Ridge Display Village will showcase 13 of Victoria's best builders, delivering an unbeatable visitor experience within the region.

Designed as a place to inspire visitors, the 'destination' display village gives home and land buyers a better understanding of what's possible when it comes to rural living, modern design and smart planning. Bringing together 19 cutting-edge homes, Ferntree Ridge Display Village showcases a wide variety of house designs and styles for all tastes and ages. The brand-new Sales and Information Centre provides the best point of contact for those that are looking for tailored land and house solutions.

LandGipps estates across Gippsland stand out through their beautifully landscaped, natural setting and functioning communities.

As Drouin's premier land development, featuring 1600 building blocks, Ferntree Ridge is designed with the health and wellbeing of its residents and their community in mind.

As part of the development a new shopping precinct, community centre and display village will be created, and a government primary school, Catholic school and retirement living space built, all connected with over 15 kilometres of walking trails, parklands and sporting fields.

With the first residents moving into Ferntree Ridge in January 2020, the estate offers

A champagne-coloured BMW believed to be involved with a shooting in Hallam.

The long-awaited launch event will be full of fun for the whole family. a wide range of home options. From small to large lot sizes, the estate accommodates the needs of first home buyers, upgraders, downsizers, retirees, singles, couples and families.

Enjoy a full program and family-friendly entertainment at Gippsland's largest display village launch on Saturday 7 December. Between 10.00am and 3.00pm there will be inspiring displays, kids activities and delicious local food and drinks available for purchase from food trucks and the newly opened Ferntree Ridge Cafe.

Visitors can expect to find event-exclusive on-the-day special offers, HIT FM's Santa on Tour Photobooth, presents from Santa, a petting zoo, jumping castle, face painting, the String and Salt Food Truck, an ice cream truck, onsite Cafe, Burra Brewery, and live music.

The launch will be held in Drouin off Weebar Road.

BMW clue to Hallam shots

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Police have released CCTV vision of a champagne-coloured BMW near the scene of a near-fatal “targeted” shooting of a 54-year-old Dandenong man in a home in Hallam.

Three men got out of the sedan to attend the Nettle Drive home and got in an altercation with the man and his 34-year-old female partner about 6.10pm on Sunday 6 October.

During the confrontation, the victim was shot in the abdomen.

Detectives from the Armed Crime Squad believe at least three shots were fired.

The wounded man was then driven by his partner to hospital for urgent medical treatment.

Detective Superintendant Peter Brigham said the man “narrowly avoided being killed”.

“We believe it was specifically targeted on

the victim.”

The victim was “cooperative” but still had concerns for his safety, Det Supt Brigham said.

“He has had extensive surgery and he’ll probably have ongoing health issues as a consequence of his injuries.”

The BMW sedan is believed to be a 2004-’07 model, with a “distinctive” slimline Europeanstyle Victorian number plate beginning with the letter ‘V’.

It was not believed to have been stolen, Det Supt Brigham said.

Police and the victim were unsure of the motive for the attack.

There was no evidence of outlaw motorcycle gang involvement but it hadn’t been ruled out either, Det Supt Brigham said.

Any information on the car, the shooting and the offenders to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au 12433396-CG48-19

OUT EVERY THURSDAY

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Thursday, 28 November, 2019

cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

ENTERTAINMENT

Santa’s little woodsmen

By Brendan Rees Members of the Berwick District Woodworkers Club want to ensure every child gets a toy this Christmas.

Santa's little helpers have been hard at work this year creating between 800 and 900 toys and they're not finished yet.

As part of their Christmas toy appeal, the club will donate wooden toys for underprivileged children.

They will be handed out to charities including 4Cs, Turning Point Church in Cranbourne, Casey North Community Information and Support Service, Cranbourne Information and Support Service Inc, and Windermere Child and Family Services.

Fifty of the members dedicate up to three times a week making toys at the Old Cheese Factory to craft everything from tractors, trailers, jigsaw puzzles, rocking horses, wheelbarrows, and trains.

Club president Len Preece said it was all about putting smiles on children's faces and "give them something they wouldn't normally get at Christmas time".

The toys will be presented at a Gala Day where representatives of the charity groups, local MPs and councillors will gather on Sunday 8 December at the Old Cheese Factory.

Craftsmen from left Peter Angwin, George Young and Len Preece with their hand-made toys they will donate to underprivileged children for Christmas.

Picture: GARY SISSONS

WHAT’S ON enjoy the carnival atmosphere which will include sausage sizzle, coffee van, ice-cream, popcorn, slushies, cakes, glow-sticks, games, pony rides, hot dogs, Thai, Indian, Italian and other exotic cuisines. Food vendors, street traders and much more. Don't miss the arrival of Santa on a Fire Truck and Lolli bags for every child. Please ring Kerrigan La-Brooy on 0404-875-647 or email kerriganlabrooy@bigpond.com for more details.

A 30km fundraiser walk will be held in November to help raise money for the event.

Hillcrest Christian College Oval, 500 Soldiers Rd, Clyde North from 5.30pm - 9.30pm, Saturday 7 December.

Christmas on the foreshore The Tooradin Foreshore Committee of management invites the community to celebrate Christmas at their annual 'Christmas on the foreshore'. Groups and bands performing include dual gold guitar winner Andrew Swift. Huge fireworks display, food and drink stalls on site or bring your own picnic (onsite barbecues on site).

Friday 6 December from 6pm- 10pm at Tooradin foreshore. Foreshore Rd. Gold coin donation. Strictly alcohol free event.

·

·

New Vogue, Ballroom, and Latin Dancing Dance classes continue at Balla Balla Community Centre in Cranbourne East, but there is now another class at the Brentwood Neighbourhood House in Berwick at 7.45pm on Thursday nights. A Christmas dance will also be held at Brentwood Park, Bemersyde Drive, Berwick on Friday 29 November, started at 7.30pm. A chance to celebrate the whole year before the Christmas rush. Wear your Christmas garb and bring along some Chrissy finger food for supper.

Cost is just $10-00.

For all enquiries about classes or the Christmas dance, please contact Di on 0408343202 or email difen69@bigpond.net.au."

Berwick Senior Citizens

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·

Free Christmas lunch day

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Do you have nothing planned on Christmas Day? Are you perhaps alone this Christmas?

Doors open at 11.30am on Wednesday 25 December at Hampton Park Uniting Church, 1 Coral Drive Hampton Park for Christmas lunch. Must book, as places are limited. Ph: 9799 7994 or email narrehamptonparkuc@ bigpond.com. Proudly Supported by the City of Casey

Open up free community lunch

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Hampton Park Uniting Church, 1 Coral Drive Hampton Park Ph: 9799 7994.

Every Thursday (during school term) at 12 pm

Prayers for Healing Service

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Prayers for Healing Service will be held at Narre Warren North Uniting Church, I Main St, Narre Warren North, on Sunday, 24 November starting at 9am. Everyone is welcome, even if you want to pray for healing for others, and then stay for a cuppa and a chat. For further information, contact Rev. Bruce Crowle on 0425 738 481 or bruce.crowle@yahoo.com.

Narre Warren and District Family History Group

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Narre Warren and District Family History Group Christmas general meeting is on Wednesday 11 December, at 7.30pm at the Casey Complex meeting room, at 1/65 Berwick Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne. Please use Casey Radio entrance. All members and visitors are welcome to attend. Come along and enjoy an evening of fun and games. The

cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

Welcomes you 55 years and over. Be involved in our club: we do line dancing Tuesdays from 10am to 12pm, Scottish dancing Tuesday nights 8pm to 10pm, club day is on Friday 9am to 2pm, we do indoor croquet and play various other games with free bingo once a month and the last Friday of the month free fish and chips.

9707 2017 or sencitber65@gmail.com, 112 High Street.

A walk in the park Residents are invited to join a morning dog walking group anytime time between 9am and 10am daily at Akoonah Park, Berwick. The group is a great way to make friends, stay healthy and be part of your local community. People with or without dog are welcome and also enjoy a coffee with Barry who set ups his coffee van from 6am-1pm every day. There is an afternoon group which usually walks about 4pm until 6pm. ‘Off the lead’ walking in the park is offered as well.

Research room will close on Tuesday the 10th of December at 3pm and will reopen on Tuesday the 4th of February 2020 at 11am.

Coffee 'n' Conversation Are you feeling lonely and want to get out a bit more? Come and join our 'Coffee 'n' Conversation' Group at Narre Warren North Uniting Church, 1 Main St. Narre Warren North on Wednesday mornings at 10am. Everybody is welcome.

For further information contact Rev. Bruce Crowle on 0425 738 481 or bruce.crowle@ yahoo.com.

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Free community barbecue event Casey ADRA will be holding a free barbecue and grill out fundraiser. Lamb kebabs, beef burgers, chicken burgers, vegan steaks, and homemade lemonade. There will also be a car wash, face painting, live music. Dinners also held every Sunday from 4pm-6.30pm at 4 Malcom Ct, Narre Warren. ADRA Australia is the humanitarian agency of the Adventist Church, which works with people in poverty and distress to create just and positive change through empowering partnerships and responsible action.

Sunday 29 December, 4 Malcom Ct, Narre Warren from 1pm- 6:30pm. Contact Number: 0425 747 866.

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Lions Senior Citizens Luncheon The Lions Club of Cranbourne presents its annual Senior Citizens Christmas Luncheon. The Cranbourne Lions Concert Band and Cranbourne Chorale sing-a-long to all your favourite carols, there are prizes to be won and enjoy a social lunch, and of course dessert prepared by your local CWA. Numbers are limited, reserve

·

your seat now!

Sunday 8 December from 12pm-3pm. Cranbourne Senior Citizen's Hall, 1 Codrington Street, Cranbourne. Contact Alisha on 0409 886 262.

·

Mosaic Class Cranbourne Community House will be running our mosaic course in 2020. Please contact us to put your name down for our class enrolments for next year.

Get in quick as spaces are filling fast. 5996 2941.

·

Probus Endeavour Hills Club The Endeavour Hills Probus Club is seeking retirees and semi - retirees to join an active and friendly group. Activities include a walking group, coffee mornings, ten-pin bowling, excursions and trivia nights.

Meet third Monday of each month (except December) at 10am at the Dandenong Club, corner of Heatherton Rd and Stud Rd, Dandenong North. Contact Chris 0423432878 or email: hart.chris64@yahoo.com.au.

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Clyde Carols by Candlelight The Clyde Carols by Candlelight will be presented by the Gethsemane Church and proudly supported by the City of Casey. This fun filled family night which attracted a whopping 4000 last year, will engage the community in social cohesion and festive cheer. It includes free kid's amusements including jumping castles, mini ferris wheel and more. Plus free entry, free entertainment, free Giveaways and free Registration into the Christmas Miracle. Come along and join in the singing, watch the local performances and

3 Year Old Kinder Enrolment 2020 Cranbourne Community House is now taking enrolments for the 3 year old kindergarten program for 2020. Orientation days begins on Monday 11 November.

Don't miss out, contact Cranbourne Community House on 5996 2941

·

Cranbourne East Secondary Community Sports Hub The Centre of Multicultural Youth, in partnership with Reclink and the City of Casey, has initiated a community sports program at Cranbourne Secondary College. The program includes a women's volleyball program as well as a multisport program open to both male and female participants. Participation is free of charge and is open to all ages. This is a great opportunity for the family to get fit together!

Cranbourne East Secondary College Gym on Mondays, 3.30pm to 4.30pm. Free of charge, all skill levels can participate. Contact Engela 0436 620 187 (evanderklashorst@cmy.net. au) or Sarah 0401 568 503 (sarah.hume@ reclink.org).

·

Dads Matter playgroup The Daytime Dads Playgroup provides an opportunity for fathers and their children to play and connect socially with other families in the community and is great for those who spend time at home during the day.

Registration is essential: To register, contact City of Casey on 9705 5200 or email dadsmatter@casey.vic.gov.au.

Weekly on Wednesday, starting from 16 October until 18 December from 10am-12pm at Hampton Park Library, 26 Stuart Ave, Hampton Park.

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Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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STAR NEWS 23

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â&#x20AC;˘ Deckings â&#x20AC;˘ Carports â&#x20AC;˘ Pergolas â&#x20AC;˘ General carpentry

REPAIRS of all types of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration By qualified Refrigeration Mechanic

12334259-ACM49-16

Glenn Pyke

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20 YEARSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; EXPERIENCE V Air Conditioning

Lic 44339

REASONABLE, RELIABLE AND GREAT RATES! Home, office and commercial removals Pre-packaging and storage arrangements All Melbourne suburbs and ŕ¸&#x20AC;ŕ¸&#x20AC; ŕ¸&#x20AC;

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Trades: 5pm Tuesday Classifieds: 11am Wednesday

AU06014

V Bathroom & Kitchens

(include your name, address and phone number)

PH:0359 45 4500 | Website: www.avan.com.au Spare parts department: 035945 4515 spareparts@avan.com.au

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NIK Refigeration Service P/L

Email: sales@networkclassiďŹ eds.com.au

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1216637-LB06-16

Online: networkclassiďŹ eds.com.au (24/7)

caravan, campers and motorhomes.

Australian made and owned family run business for over 25 years.

Over 200 models in the range from the fold up camper van, to the light weight hardtop/poptop caravans and the luxury Motorhomes built on the fiat ducato chassis.

12324282-HM39-16

Avan specializing in manufacture of

Mobile: 0439 035 994 cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

Trades & Services

www.networkclassifieds.com.au

Place your ad in print and online V Trades Busi ess Profile

V Electricia s

Fully Licenced Builder/Carpenter

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Discounts apply

644 780

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Call James 0419 158 660

Professional Carpet Steam Cleaning Tiles, Grout, Lounge Suites, Cars Hot Water & Electricity Located in Van Guaranteed, Not clean no money

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$70

8

Rooms 15 years experience 0403 001 958 2-3 Hours to Dry

ng essure Cleani & Pointing ♦ Pr ng yi ra sp ♦ Rebedding ting ♦ Re ♦ Flexible Poin Roof Tiler ♦ Qualified ent cia Replacem ♦ Gutter and Fa ♦ No job too small nt ou sc Di ♦ Pensioner

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12433354-CG47-19

CASEY CARPET CLEANING 12369759-ACM43-17

15 years experience Fully qualified and insured

0401 234 672 or 9799 7229 www.caseycarpetcleaning.com.au

9847 0810

A & F CONCRETING • SPECIALISING IN ALL TYPES OF CONCRETING/ CONCRETE PATTERN, SLABS • FOUNDATIONS ETC. • ALL DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL

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Support your local tradesman for ALL your concreting needs!

C1085227-JO32-13

Phone Andrew on

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J.L. Hutt Electrical 24 HOUR SERVICE Rec: 17824

• Entensions/Refurbishments • Switchboard Upgrades/Safety Switches Specialising in all Electrical Installations • House Rewires FREE QUOTES • Phone/Data/TV & CCTV No Job too big or small • Oven & Hot Plate Repairs • Hot Water Service Repairs www.jlhuttelectrical.com.au • Security Alarms • AC Installations

v

Steel Fencing & Gates

We NEVER

Close Lic. 23691

THE SMALL JOB SPECIALIST

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No Job Too Big or Small

439 456

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Pool - Front - Balustrades - Handrails in Galvanised or Stainless Steel FREE QUOTES Phone Theo 9792 9898 - 0414 663 746 BY: A.P.T. CONSTRUCTIONSC1013092-PJ10-12 P/L

General Classifieds Rec 9276

section of Network Classifieds.

V Fur iture Re ovals

9796 9159 or 0419 255 543

LEIGH HUNTER REMOVALS AND STORAGE

A GRADE ELECTRICIAN

Jason 1300 644 698

QBSA 71256

Prompt and Reliable Service

C1101420-JO46-13

yes we can

Wiring and Rewiring specialists All types of electrical work Free ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Quotes ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Palings, Pickets, Colorbond Fences & Gates

Phone 0419 775 259 or 8751 4016

Lighting Power Points Phone & Data Hot Water And more...

TOPLINE ELECTRIC’S

Norton Electrics And Maintenance

CALIFORNIA CONCRETE

Call Joe Anytime: 0427

Call Us Today For our FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE!

section of Network Classifieds.

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SAXON FENCING

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A H FENCING & TIMBER PTY LTD

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Employment

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SUPPLY ONLY TRADE & DIRECT TO PUBLIC

V Electricia s

DeckSeal specialize in the restoration & preservation of timber decks. Our services extend to timber screens, benches, boxes, cladding, doors, windows & also concrete cleaning & sealing.

Andrew Craven Concreting www.andrewcravenconcreting.com.au

C1079679-JO26-13

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SERVICING JUNCTION VILLAGE AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL FREE QUOTE ANY TIME RING 9700 4378 C63804-BG25-8

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ABN 94 981 793 682 ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

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Call 1300 666 808

We do it all from deck sanding, cleaning and sealing through to timber maintenance. Residential & Commercial.

Continually delivering a beautiful & long-lasting deck surface.

Call, email or visit our website for more information. phone: 1800 DECKCLEAN (1800 332 525) email: info@deckseal.com.au www.deckseal.com.au

V Co crete Products & Services

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Junction Village Electricians

FREE QUOTES ฀

Lic. 265969C

0404 777 721

Qualified & Licensed For prompt & reliable service.

No job too small.

Lights, Power Points, NBN, Phone, & TV Points. CCTV. Rec 23156.

Call for a free quote Mark 0401 523 330

• Local, Country & Interstate • Antiques & Pianos a speciality • Cartons & Porta-robes for hire or sale • Full packing available PHONE FOR OBLIGATION FREE QUOTATION

9707 5700, 9768 9153 V Garde Services

฀ Rec. No. 12663

Find your Local Professionals in our 1144857-KC29-14

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Call Danny

We do it with confidence

9700ww1w.n8ewridgeroofrestoration.co

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Full house clean from $75

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FRANKIES FENCING & GATES

12332448-CG47-16

We bring our own electricity Truck Mounted Machine

“I am more than happy with the service and results I get from advertising locally” -Dean

3au1 138 99 - 0439 9m.

24/7 Flood Water Damage Restoration ✔ Steam and dry cleaning ✔ Tile cleaning ✔ Upholstery cleaning ✔ Leather cleaning

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From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

V Carpet Clea i g

AUZ FENCING

12362669-EPJ34-17

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12417516-RC19-19

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Call Chris: 0416 079 689 - 5940 7264

TRADES & SERVICES

QUALIFIED CARPENTER/ HOME MAINTENANCE

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Grow your business with

12391830-RA27-1

Contact Trevor: 0403

All Types of Domestic & Commercial Work ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Trades & Services MEB & SON CONCRETING Ring Jim for a free quote 0417 054 198 12390512-ACM24-18

section of Network Classifieds.

1156305-HM40-14

Footings, garages, v crossings, drives, paths & patios.

In plain, colour, slate or stencil. Also drainage, saw cutting, 3T excavator, bobcat & tip trucks.

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL

1167287-PB50-14

12413269-CG11-19

฀ ฀ ฀ ON TIME, EVERY TIME

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L&L ELECTRICS

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C62885-BG24-8

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12414711-CG14-19

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1198421-ACM37-15

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Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online! cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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STAR NEWS 25

Trades & Services

Place your ad in print and online www.networkclassifieds.com.au

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Call Darren 0412 584 914 F1/73 Assembley Drive, Dandenong South

www.proudpainting.com.au

s Sewer/drain blockages s High pressure jet cleaning s Camera inspections s Gas fitting s Change over hot water services

M: 0 4 3 0 3 5 3 0 8 0 Ben PAULS PAINTING & SON ฀

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www.expplumbinggasfitting.com.au

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Junction Village Plumbers

DIGITAL ANTENNAS POINTS & BOOSTERS INSTALLED TODAY

FOR OUR FAST & FRIENDLY SERVICE!

V Tili g

ECONOMY TILING All Bathroom Renovations • Bathrooms • Toilets • Kitchens • Decks • Water proofing • Walls and Floors

9705 7911

Free Quotes

Call 0432 550 066 or 8707 5522

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Repairs Rebedding ● Resprays

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12397609-CG35-18

FOUNTAIN GATE PLUMBING

denis@toogoodhandyman.com.au

0428 384 623 RAY'S HANDYMAN SERVICE • RENOVATIONS • REPAIRS • ALTERATIONS • PLASTERING • PAINTING • ALL TRADES COVERED FREE QUOTES • PENSIONER DISCOUNTS CALL RAY 0480 125 968

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C695870-JM11-9

฀Hot Water Specialists ฀Blocked Drains ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

No Job Too Small

Benchtop replacement specialists, specilialising in:

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• Steel Doors • Window Grilles • Stainless Steel Doors • Showers • Aluminium Doors • Fly Screens FREUERE MEASOTES & QU

5995 4344

Showroom by appointment 11 Cooper Crt Cranbourne

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(Including Aged Care Facilities & Real Estate Rentals Etc.)

M. 0400 383 588 E. treecontrol4@bigpond.com

1149536-HM33-14

Removals/pruning Hedging/shaping Line clearing/Palm work Tight access stump grinding Fully Insured/Qualified

Call Lucas 0419 259 266 Jack 0400 895 945 V Windows

WINDOWS 1 Window Replacement Service Timber or Aluminium Windows Free Measure and quote

Member HIA and MBA www.windows1.net.au

9703 1530

NEAT PLUMBING SERVICE Lic. Number 27186

Primo Kitchen & Bathroom Renovations ฀ ฀

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฀ ฀ ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS ฀ ฀ STANDARD RATES ON WEEKENDS ฀ ฀ ฀฀฀ ฀ ฀ gjlawplumbing.com.au 7 DAYS 0419 136 181 - 0419 136 151

V Kitchens

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SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED฀

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1158529-PB42-14

Anything you need a bloke to do around the house

Pensioner Discounts

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1800 183 567

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L&C Tree Services

V Se urity & S ree Doors

1 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING ฀

Pressure cleaning Flexi pointing

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section of Network Classifieds.

9796 8621 0418 367 017 ฀ ฀ ฀

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Trades & Services

i g

1023309-PJ18-12

AROUND THE HOUSE

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FREECALL

1172347-DJ07-15

DENIS

HOME MAINTENANCE, EXTENSIONS AND RENOVATIONS 1195399-HM34-15

V Plu

PENSIONER DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE

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Phone Rob 5996 3823, 0418 306 738

Lic 24754 • New Houses • Factories • Blockages/Machine and Camera • Same Day Hot Water Services • Domestic and Commercial Maintenance • 3.5 Ton & 12 Ton Excavator • Bobcat and Tipper

V Ha dy Perso s

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Deal direct with tradesman.

All work guaranteed.

GUTTER CLEANING

0411 314 104

V Tree Loppi g/Surgery

9700 1899 - 0439 931 138 www.newridgeroofrestoration.com.au

12430631-LB44-19

Call Jeff on

section of Network Classifieds.

Lic. 104391

SPIC & SPAN ROOF RESTORATIONS

Phone 9791 8184 27 Riverview Crescent Eumemmerring.

Qualified Roof Tiler - 30 Years Exp

Close

General Notices

♦ Rebedding & Pointing ♦ Pressure Cleaning ♦ Flexible Pointing ♦ Respraying ♦ Qualified Roof Tiler ♦ Gutter and Facia Replacement ♦ Pensioner Discount ♦ No job too small

V Pest Co trol

Powerful Vacuum leaves nothing behind Domestic & Commercial – Fully Insured Satisfaction Guaranteed from $150

We NEVER

V Roofi g

Real Estate

V Gutteri g

PENSIONER DISCOUNT

9998 2905 www.Ser viceToday.com.au

section of Network Classifieds.

Doveton Glass

12363294-ACM35-17

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WELCOME HERE

12422011-SN28-19

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SENIORS CARD

SERVICING JUNCTION VILLAGE AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

C552009-BG31-7

24/7

GREG: 0414 516 050 ■ General glazing ■ Mirrors & glass cut to size ■ Shower screen glass replacement

Glenn: 0410 578 425 Fully insured

1238399-RC33-16

30% OFF FREE THIS MONTH QUOTES

yes we can

12413544-RC11-19

GLENN’S PAINTING

ALL BROKEN GLASS REPLACEMENTS

12422540-SN29-19

C1031905-JJ21-12

PAINTER & DECORATOR FREE QUOTES Mobile: 0414 939 331

12387534-SN20-18

• Free Measure & Quotes • Fast Glass Replacements • Splashbacks • Mirrors • Table Tops • Pet Doors Berwick Glass & Glazing Pty Ltd Fax 9705 7955 Factory 7, 4–6 Len Thomas Place, Narre Warren 3805

CALL OUT FEE $0

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24/7

No job too big or too small

ANTENNAS

12354089-PB23-17

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0414 749 130

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AAA AERIAL

ALL EMERGENCY PLUMBING WORKS DOMESTIC/ COMMERCIAL

1238899-CG33-16

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V Televisio /Video/Audio

Call Jason

Commercial/Domestic Decking/pergola/driveways ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Interior/ext High quality Free quote

12411212-CG07-19

Glass Tabletops, Shopfronts and Doggy Doors

12397332-SN35-18

Window Replacements, Mirrors, Splashbacks,

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C1072232-JJ4-13

Cutts Glass

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12434579-LB49-19

V Pai ters/De orators

12367795-LB41-17

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0417 382 700

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Phone Paul 0424 474 408 C1080938-PJ30-13

V Locksmiths

DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL AUTOMOTIVE Call DOUG AMOS

r ne io nt! s n u Pe isco D

0420 102 762

Receive 10% off when you present this voucher

Over 20 Years’ Experience 12355550-ACM25-17

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MIKE 0415 0415 524 280

12388024-SN21-18

AFFORDABLE PLUMBING ฀ ✤ ✁

47089

www.mrlockandkeys.com.au

26 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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Find what your looking for in our

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Call Now 0417 128 536

Call or visit us online! • networkclassifieds.com.au

12355821-ACM25-17

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General Classifieds

V Public Notices and Event

V Public Notices and Event

V Markets

PlnA00735/19 - (Sangeeta Sharma)

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority.

City of Casey Bunjil Place 2 Patrick Northeast Drive NARRE WARREN This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Documents can also be viewed on Council’s website: https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/viewplanning-applications

The Amendment inserts an exemption into Schedule 1, 2, 3, 5 and 14 to the Urban Growth Zone to facilitate the delivery of community infrastructure on public land or future public land generally in accordance with approved precinct structure plans.

A copy of the Amendment can be inspected, free of charge, at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning website at www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection and free of charge, during office hours, at the offices of the Casey City Council, Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren, Victoria.

Stuart Menzies Director State Planning Services Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority. ฀ ฀

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TAMWORTH CMF

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The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before:

ALL HOURS, On site computer repairs, upgrades, software, internet and networks. For small businesses and home users.

Reliable service. Phone Ian: 9799 8884.

TOP SOIL Screened, best quality, blended, suitable lawns and garden beds.

10 metre loads

$40 Metre Pakenham

$44 metre

Jan 2020, 21st to 28th. Cost $1720 p/p inc Meals, Motel accommodation etc.

HAZELWOOD COACHES 0428 223 361

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Tenders

Public Notice

PD Studio

The application reference number is:

PlnA00368/19 - (Durga Viswanathan)

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Must be qualified.

Experience essential.

Good wages and conditions.

Must have HC licence.

South east suburbs.

Contact Jason 0417 101 102

swa7023b

Monday to Thursday

$10 off ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ 17 Nicole Way Dandenong South

12 December 2019

Employment

12434361-CG49-19

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Find your Local Professionals in our

Trades & Services section of Network Classifieds.

Walkers Wanted Call us on

1300 654 910 or apply online at

www.fermax.com.au

12386920-RA19-18

V Positions Vacant

General Classifieds

PLUMBER

section of Network Classifieds.

3rd/4th year apprentice or qualified. Full time. Must be experienced in new homes/unit plumbing and drainage. Call 0497 465 463

V Professional

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

NEED

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

NEW STAFF? Get 10% Discount Use code: EMPDISC

Fill your position online ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX

PLACE YOUR 12400498-CG38-18

If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of its decision.

Real Estate

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V Positions Vacant

V Garage Sales BERWICK 1 Ashfort Court.

Saturday 30th November & Sunday 1st December. Saturday 9am-4pm & Sunday 10am-3pm.

Furniture, clothing, electric bikes. Moving house sale lots to go.

Red Lantern

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Buy, Rent & Sell in our

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EXCAVATOR/ BOBCAT OPERATOR REQUIRED

General Classifieds

7days

12434396-LB49-19

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Make Extra $$$ in your spare time to support your income or for fitness, by becoming a reliable and enthusiastic independent distributor delivering local newspapers and leaflets in your local neighbourhood.

V Positions Vacant

Small Business or Self Employed.

Struggling to keep on top of the books? We provide services right up to pre tax lodgement.

Let us help now by providing you with a great service.

Phone Junette on 0404 855 543

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Closes 18 December 2019 Full details are available at; www.casey.vic.gov.au/tenders

X-clusive Bookkeeping Solutions

The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before:

Maintenance of the Surrounds of Prominent Buildings and other Facilities Contract No CT000542

Professional Services

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.

An objection must ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀ ฀

V Positions Vacant

Cleaners General Cleaner wanted for vacate, end of lease cleaning.

Preferably with experience. Will train husband and wife team.

Also Carpet cleaners with own van and equipment required.

Phone 04 240 for details.

V Bookkeeping

City of Casey Bunjil Place 2 Patrick Northeast Drive NARRE WARREN This can be done during office hours and is free of charge. Documents can also be viewed on Council’s website: https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/view-planningapplications

฀

5941 2516

V Business Opportunities

12400545-LB38-19

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority.

12434980-FA49-19

Closes 18 December 2019

The applicant for the permit is:

฀

฀ ฀

฀

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number.

It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

Closes 18 December 2019

Development of a Second Dwelling and Variation of a Restrictive Covenant

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Employment

Berwick Synthetic Bowling Green 3 Upgrade Contact No CT000545 Maintenance of Prominent Parks Contract No CT000541

The application is for a permit to:

฀

฀

฀ ฀

12393832-SN30-18

12434388-CG49-19

45 David Collins Drive ENDEAVOUR HILLS VIC 3802 Lot 265 LP 219547W

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of its decision.

The land affected by the application is located at:

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

V Public Notices and Event

Roles and Responsibilities will include: ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

V Pets & Services

Narre Warren, Cranbourne, Berwick

12 December 2019

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

12431030-SG49-19

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer non-sexual services.

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

V Garden/ Outdoor

Celebrations

V Massage Therapists

12408632-RC04-19

The application reference number is:

V Computer Repairs

12435127-CG49-19

Progress Planning Pty Ltd

฀ ฀

12423634-SN31-19

The Amendment came into operation on 21 November 2019, the date this notice was published in the Government Gazette.

฀

8 946 Contact: 0419 15reet St t et nn Be 15 t A Community Projec

The Minister for Planning has approved Amendment C272 to the Casey Planning Scheme.

The applicant for the permit is:

An objection must ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀

Notice of Approval of Amendment Amendment C272 Case.

Variation of Restrictive Covenant PS411308E to allow the Development of Two Dwellings on the Lot

Chelsea Beach Medical Centre requires a Casual Medical Receptionist to join our busy, close knit team.

Sunday 1st De

Planning and Environment Act 1987 CASEY PLANNING SCHEME

106 Bellevue Drive BERWICK VIC 3806 Lot 69 PS 411308E

Casual Medical Receptionist

1ST SUNDAYONTH (March-December) OF EVERY M cember

Public Notice

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

The application is for a permit to:

V Positions Vacant

LONGWARR Y FIRE COUNTRY C BRIGADE R PRODUCE M AFT & ARKET

Public Notice

The land affected by the application is located at:

Employment

12433900-FA48-19

General Notices

Buy & Sell in our

Motoring

section of Network Classifieds.

section of Network Classifieds.

ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX

cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

networkclassifieds.com.au Thursday, 28 November, 2019

|

STAR NEWS 27

SPORT

Shooting for the stars

By Tyler Lewis A new era of elite basketball is upon the south east.

Basketball Victoria has established three basketball hubs in Wantirna South, the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC), and Cranbourne’s Casey Stadium.

Athletes from each hub benefit from the elite coaching from basketball coaches from the Victorian program, in order to develop the required skills to perform in the elite competitions around the country and further add to their chances of developing into scholarship and college prospects for American programs.

Basketball Victoria CEO Nick Honey said he is pleased with the new development, adding it will enhance the chances of athletes in the region to get the best of their talent.

“The high performance hubs will be a major boost to the region’s junior basketball stars,” Honey said.

“With the Victorian Government’s support, the hubs will provide the necessary elite training to enable the region’s elite basketballers to star at any level.

“The Victorian Government has been an incredible champion of basketball in recent years, including a number of newly-built and renovated stadiums - especially our home at the State Basketball Centre.

“Basketball Victoria would like to congratulate the Victorian Government on its $5 million commitment to our high performance programs and we’re eager to see the Broadmeadows high performance hub, amongst our 10 high performance hubs throughout Victoria, start developing the Victorian basketball’s latest generation of champions.”

Martin Pakula - State tourism, sport and major events minister - said the program and the Andrews government’s $101 million investment will improve the locals’ approach to basketball and improve the youngsters’ chances of achieving their childhood dreams.

“With record numbers of Victorians signing up to play basketball we’re making sure communities like Broadmeadows (and Casey) have the best facilities and programs to develop the next Ben Simmons and Liz Cambage,”

Cranbourne's Casey Stadium is the home of a new, state-of-the-art, 'basketball hub'.

Pakula said.

“These new hubs will be real winners for their local areas - working side by side with local competitions that are so important in promoting health and fitness across the community.”

Casey Basketball official Ash Szalek said he’s pleased with the new training hub, while also explaining that the achievements within Casey don’t stop at the new training program, but rather the achievements of specific individuals and coaches.

“Casey Basketball is thrilled to share with the community that the following athletes

have been selected into the Basketball Victoria State Development Program - Keighan Cormick-Cox, Dakota Critchon, Brian Vengesayi, Cedric Rault, Lucy Dexter, Dakodah Burgess, Dylan Bucknell, Ethan Bolton, Truman Byrne and Archer McMenamin,” he said.

“On top of this, Blake Shankland has become the first ever Casey Cavalier to be named in the Victorian National Performance Program.

“All of this work is accredited to the hardworking coaches and officials throughout he club. This hard work has recently been recognised by the Victorian Junior Basketball League, which has named Casey Basketball

Picture: SUPPLIED Association its Large Association of the year for the 2018/19 season.

“This is a huge step in the association’s development moving forward; however, many more steps forward will continue to come in the season ahead.”

The state program is the first, yet biggest step towards opening the doors to representing the state and the country on the court.

Trials began over a number of days at the beginning of October where the athletes all performed admirably and were ultimately recognised as some of the most talented basketballers in the state.

The greyhound world has been put on notice

By Russell Bennett

Casey softball will be well represented on the big stage early in the new year.

Casey players flying the flag on the big stage This January will see a record number of junior Casey softballers representing Victoria at the National Championships in January.

There are four girls competing in the under-18 competition in Blacktown, New South Wales - Brodie Hendy (Berwick), Chelsea Kimber (Narre Warren), Paige Morrison (Berwick), and Kezziah Pauli (Chiefs). Kezziah is also the vice-captain of the Victorian under-18s.

In the under-16s, Casey has three representatives - Arielle Lee (Royal Falcons), Kiara Rhind-Luke (Royal Falcons), and Keira McLaverty (Cobras). Keira is also the vice-captain.

The under-16 National Championship is being held at Waverley Softball Association, on Jells Road, Wheelers Hill from 4-10 January.

28 STAR NEWS

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Spectators are encouraged to head along and support the local girls and Team Victoria.

The under-14 girls are travelling to Perth for their competition, where Casey will have three young ladies flying the local flag - Tahuna Rhind-Luke (Royal Falcons), Rachel Steendam (Cobras), and Brooklyn Maloney (Cobras).

Casey will also have a player - Narre Warren's Jordan Miller - representing Victoria at the under-18 men's National Championships, to be held in Blacktown.

There will also be two officials travelling.

Margaret Steendam (Cobras) is the under-14 team manager, while Isabell Zaharias (Cobras) is the under-16 specialist coach.

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

New Sandown Park track record holder 'Hooked On Scotch' has drawn ideally for Friday night's $630,000 TAB Melbourne Cup final, and will start as the short-priced favourite for the world's greatest greyhound race.

Widely-regarded as the fastest greyhound on the planet, the Jason Thompson-trained flyer will jump from Box 8 - the same box from which he set the new time standard at the track last Friday night.

He ran a blistering time of 28.939 in last Friday's heat, leading to the TAB installing him as the $1.90 favourite for the big race this week.

"We definitely wanted Box 8," said kennel representative Seona Thompson.

"When we were leaving this morning Sophie (Thompson's daughter) went out and gave him a cuddle and he told her he wanted that, and that's what we got, so we're very happy with that."

On Friday night, Hooked On Scotch put the greyhound world on notice with a stunning track record gallop in his heat.

Heavily-backed from $2.40 into $1.70 with tab.com.au fixed odds, he began cleanly in his first career start from Box 8 to sweep around the field through the first turn.

From there he was never headed, extending his margin out to eight lengths at the line to establish a new time standard.

Ominously, Jason Thompson believes the son of champion sire Barcia Bale can go even faster still.

"He didn't begin as good as we would have liked to see him begin - he's only run 5.11 (to

the first split)," he said.

"If you're talking about what he can do, well he can run a length quicker.

"I just wanted to see him put on the show I knew he could do. The dog is a freak - I've said it for a long time that he's a freak.

"I had faith in the dog that he could break the record and he's done it, and done it on a night where it really counts, on Cup heats night, and I couldn't be more proud of the dog."

From just 15 career starts Hooked On Scotch already has 10 wins - including seven in the best time of the night - with four group race titles and over $205,000 in prizemoney. Still a month shy of his second birthday, Hooked On Scotch will become the youngest winner of the TAB Melbourne Cup since Kantarn Bale claimed the 1999 edition of the race if successful next Friday night.

The best-supported greyhound in the wake of the box draw is star West Australian sprinter, Campini. The keen railer drew the coveted red box, and after opening at $8 has already firmed into a $5 chance.

The results of the TAB Melbourne Cup box draw were: 1: Campini 2: Get It Gizmo 3: Whiskey Riot 4: Flynn 5: Western Envoy 6: Jaro Bale 7: Oakvale Beauty 8: Hooked On Scotch cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Rule changes set for VFL

By Nick Creely The Victorian Football League has announced a series of list rule changes which will be implemented for the 2020 season.

Following a review into the VFL and NEAFL competitions by the AFL Football Operations department and league managers, it has been determined that list sizes, structure and access to additional players for AFL clubs varied greatly.

Head of talent pathways and state league competitions, Tristan Salter, said the rules changes will help strengthen State League competitions across the board while still allowing flexibility to meet each competition’s unique requirements.

“Our goal is to achieve a consistent set of rules and regulations, list rules and player access across State Leagues to ensure the level of competition and experience for developing players is as equal as possible,” he said.

“These measures have been put in place to not only promote consistency across State League competitions, but maintain competitive balance within each competition.

“The changes to playing list structure also enables a closer connection to NAB League clubs to ensure a strong pathway exists for aspiring players.

“These changes also reflect the AFL’s objectives of providing greater opportunity for tier two talent to reach the elite level via the NAB AFL National, Pre-Season and Mid-Season drafts.”

In 2020, the VFL will adopt the following rule changes: VFL clubs will have a development list introduced, made up of 19-year-old players.

VFL clubs will have a development list introduced, made up of 19-year-old players.

All clubs will be required to play 23 players per match, which will include one 19-yearold development player and one under-21 player (i.e traditional 23rd player).

List structures for 2020 will be as follows: •฀ Non-AFL clubs can list up to 46 players, including 40 primary listed players and six development list players.

•฀ AFL aligned clubs can list up to 36 players, including 30 primary listed players and six development list players.

•฀ AFL clubs can list up to 30 players, including 24 primary list players and six

· · · ·

· ·

·

development list players.

An additional rookie list of two players is available to all VFL teams which will include NGA players and players who meet the AFL category B Rookie criteria.

A father/son rule will be introduced in 2020 which allows a club to list a player whose father played 100 games or more for the club (including AFL and AFL aligned clubs).

These players will be listed on a club’s development list.

Aside from current finals eligibility rules, no other playing restrictions will apply in the finals series.

The changes could greatly increase the likelihood of talent local players from competitions such as AFL Outer East, West Gipp-

sland and the Mornington Peninsula to grab a chance at VFL level, and for youngsters from local clubs join a development list.

QUIZ NUMBER 1688 1. WHICH NFL team won the 2017-18 Super Bowl?

Warriors prepare for battle

cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

4. WHAT was surf champion Nat Young’s real first name?

5. WHAT is a golf score one stroke under par?

6. IN what sport is the Australian national team known as ‘The Boomers’?

7. HOW many Melbourne based AFL sides have never won the flag?

8. WHO captained England during cricket’s infamous Bodyline series?

9. WHICH famous English actor opened the 2012 Olympics?

THE PRELIMINARY WGCA COUNTRY WEEK SQUAD Cardinia: Alex Nooy and Travis Wheller.

Clyde: Jason Hameeteman, Matthew Aslett, Pat Lawson, Liam Bennett, Daniel Lever and Kiefer Peries (wk).

Cranbourne Meadows: Jahanzaib Athar and Pardeep Singh.

Devon Meadows: Kyle Salerno, Lucas Ligt, Lucas Carroll and Joel Wylie.

Kooweerup: Tyler Clark, Mark Cooper, Luke McMaster, Jess Mathers, Hussain Ali and Chris Bright (wk).

Merinda Park: Daniel McCalman and Jarrod Armitage.

Pakenham: Ben Maroney, Dale Tormey, Troy McDermott, Jack Ryan and Jason Williams.

Pakenham Upper/Toomuc: Sahan Wijeratne.

Tooradin: Cal O'Hare, Matthew Cox, Neil Peake, Russell Lehman, Josh Lownds and Troy Lehman.

Upper Beaconsfield: Imesh Jayasekara.

10. WHAT does a yellow card mean in soccer?

11. WHO beat Tony Mundine for the world middleweight boxing crown in 1974?

12. WHICH horse finished in last place in the 2019 Melbourne Cup? 13. WHAT is the current home ground of famous English soccer club West Ham? 14. WHAT is bigger - a tennis ball or a cricket ball?

15. IN what country was former Aussie boxing champion Johnny Famechon born?

16. DID America’s Cup hero John Bertrand ever win an Olympic medal?

17. IN which sport did American Dana Vollmer set a new world record at the 2012 Olympics?

18. WHO won the US Open golf title in 2019?

19. WHICH West German swimmer won two gold medals at the 1984 Olympics?

20. WHAT was the nick-name of early Australian cricket fast bowler Frederick Spofforth?

12429498-NG49-19

This year the West Gippsland Warriors proved they belong in the top flight of the Victorian Country Cricket League's (VCCL) Melbourne Country Week carnival, and early next year they'll be out to topple the best leagues in the state yet again.

West Gippsland's gallant 2019 Provincial division campaign came to an end in the semifinal stage at Bayswater against local rival, the Mornington Peninsula - featuring none other than former WGCA Country Week stalwart Tom Hussey.

It was a disappointing conclusion to an otherwise hugely encouraging campaign, and two of that West Gippy side's leaders - Rob Elston and Ben Maroney - admitted as much after the MPCA loss.

"It's a credit to all of you blokes who came away for the week - it's been fantastic," Maroney said.

"We've got a pretty good future to look forward to, and the chance to remain competitive in Division 1 (Provincial)."

Almost prophetically, at that stage Elston said it was time a new wave of younger players took the WGCA's Country Week responsibility on their shoulders moving forward.

"There are a few older guys in the room who might come along for the ride, but the younger guys have to take it from here," he said.

"You've got to be the ones who're passionate about Country Week, want to play it, and want to drive it forward."

Last season the platform for future success was put in place. This season, a new group will launch from it.

This week Elston and team manager Phil Anning released the preliminary 2020 Warriors squad. Of the players selected, those who're interested in taking part should confirm with Anning on 0488 401 378, or by email on jackanning@bigpond.com.au by 21 December. The 2020 Country Week competition will run from 16 to 21 February.

3. WHAT do jockeys Harry White and Bobby Lewis have in common?

ANSWERS: 1. Philadelphia 2. Three 3. They each rode four Melbourne Cup winners 4. Robert 5. A birdie 6. Basketball 7. None 8. Douglas Jardine 9. Daniel Craig 10. A caution 11. Carlos Monzon 12. Rostropovich 13. London Stadium 14. A cricket ball 15. France 16. Yes, a bronze at the 1976 Olympics 17. Swimming 18. Gary Woodland 19. Michael Gross 20. ‘The Demon’

By Russell Bennett

2. HOW many gold medals did Jodie Henry win at the 2004 Olympics?

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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STAR NEWS 29

SPORT

Chasemore epic fell short

By Nick Creely DDCA TURF 1 AND 2 REVIEW - ROUND 4 (DAY TWO) Not even an epic century from the great Matthew Chasemore could see Berwick to a victory against reigning premiers Buckley Ridges in a run-soaked affair at Arch Brown Reserve.

After the Bucks were lifted to an imposing 338 with a whirlwind 97 from overseas recruit Jerome Jones, the visitors were greeted by a dogged Chasemore on day two in his side's first real test of the season.

The former Premier Cricket star and DDCA great looked solid in the early exchanges, but unfortunately for the Bears, damaging duo Jerome Jones and Daniel Watson caused havoc with the new ball to leave the home side 2/38.

The impressive Connor Bowden (2/60) managed to snare the wicket of star all-rounder Ruwantha Kellepotha just as he threatened to get going, but Chasemore just kept batting, holding firm at the top-of-the-order to keep the scoreboard ticking along nicely.

Chasemore - alongside Matthew Robertson (45) - got the home side back on track, notching up a 78-run stand before the wily Greg Todd (3/48) sparked another mini collapse, snicking off Robertson, before Jack Phillips and Brendan Rose were quickly back in the sheds.

Despite the wickets tumbling around him, Chasemore ticked over another half-century in the competition, playing fluently, and in his own unique style to prove a stumbling block for the Bucks on the way to victory.

But with the wickets falling, the run rate dropped, and despite Chasemore raising the blade for a wonderful century - one of the finest Turf 1 knocks seen in years - the Bears were always going to fall short despite a quick-fire 30 from Jarrod Goodes, ultimately batting out the day to finish 9/280, still 59 runs short of a win.

Chasemore carried the bat in a superb performance to finish with 134 not out from 209 balls, a knock featuring 10 fours and three sixes, and plenty of his trademark placement into gaps keeping the scoreboard ticking.

Down at Strathaird Recreation Reserve, Narre South were merciless with the bat as they continue its impressive start to life in Turf 1, knocking over North Dandenong by eight wickets.

Chasing a potentially tricky 222 for victory after a superb 80 from Austin Heldt on day one for the Maroons, the Lions barely gave the visitors a sniff.

Off the back of a destructive Morteza Ali - a player with an immense eye and firepower the Lions put on an astonishing 182 for the first wicket, with reliable batsman Jawed Hussaini absolutely rock-solid as Ali stole the show.

Ali blasted a brilliant 125 from 141 balls, flaying the Maroons to all parts to pump out seven sixes and 12 fours, while Hussaini's 60 off 157 balls was absolutely vital as the Lions cruised to victory in the 60th over.

Ashan Wijayakumara also got in the runs late to score an unbeaten 28 as he too continues to build into some of his best form before Christmas.

Down at Carroll Reserve, Springvale South boom recruit Akshay Ballal bamboozled St Mary's on the way to a dominant win.

Setting the Saints a difficult 272 for victory on day one, the visitors resumed 0/6, and got through the first portion of the day in solid fashion without the loss of a wicket.

But after gun spinner Jarryd Straker managed to break through for the first scalp, that of Lewis Palmer for an incredibly patient 26 off 110 balls, the flood gates opened up as Ballal went to work with the ball.

Completely dismantling the Saints in a stunning spell, Ballal took 6/14 off 15 pressurefilled overs, with the Saints unable to get any momentum to finish the day 8/120.

It's not the first time Ballal has bamboozled opposition with the ball. When with North Dandenong last season, the all-rounder snared 5/14 in one of the upsets of the season against Berwick, and now with the Bloods, adds such a dangerous dimension to its side that it perhaps didn't have last season.

Straker's left-arm tweakers also proved incredibly difficult to get away, finishing with the extremely impressive figures of 21 overs for just 17 runs and a wicket.

30 STAR NEWS

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Buckley Ridges star Daniel 'DJ' Watson sends one down. 201130

Pictures: ROB CAREW

DDCA champ Matthew Chasemore in action on Saturday. 201130

Jack Hogarth during his match-winning spell for the Parkmore Pirates at Casey Fields. 201131

In the remaining match played at Frawley Road, Heinz Southern Districts picked up a confidence-boosting win against Hallam Kalora Park.

After a disappointing batting performance from the home side saw them fall for just 107 on day one, the Cobras resumed day two on Saturday 1/25 and eyeing a massive victory for its season.

Despite a wicket in the opening exchanges, the Cobras breezed to victory, with Eranda Ekanayake (77) leading from the front with a classy knock, while skipper Kaushalya Weeraratne continues to just churn out the runs, notching up 41.

The pair was outstanding as the Cobras crossed the Hawks just three wickets down, before using the time to get some quality time in the middle, finishing 7/190 before stumps were called early.

Champion all-rounder Leigh Booth battled hard to finish with 2/28 from 12 overs, while spinner Sachith Jayasingha (2/40) was also impressive.

In Turf 2, the Parkmore Pirates snared an

absolute monster win.

And it came through the classy spin of Scottish recruit Jack Hogarth, who spun a web through Cranbourne in dominant fashion.

Defending 300 after a superb century from Anurudhdha Fonseka on day one, the Pirates didn't even give the Eagles a sniff on its home deck.

Hogarth, a rising leggie part of Scotland's Performance Academy, showcased just why he'll be a handful in the DDCA as the year progresses, snaring 6/26 off 12 overs as the home side meekly rolled over for just 57 inside 34 overs.

Taking in first innings points, the Pirates had a crack at an outright win, but the Eagles managed to show some fight to end the second innings on 5/131.

Down at Perc Allison Oval, meanwhile, a truly astonishing display from Beaconsfield seamer Jake Cutting has seen the Tigers bank a win against Lyndale.

After the Tigers scratched its way to 112 on day one and had the visitors 7/62 at stumps, the game was very much in the balance when

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

played resumed on Saturday.

But Jake Cutting - who bowled superbly late on the first day - was absolutely merciless with his lines and pressure, cutting apart the Dales with 6/7 off 16.1 overs, bowling an incredible 12 maidens as the visitors were rolled for 73.

Fellow seamer Callan Tout (4/28) was always in vintage touch, combining for 36 of the 39 overs with Cutting to cause serious issues.

The Tigers had another dip with the bat, reaching 3/136 before declaring with an outright victory in mind. Club great Brad Miles (57 not out) plundered an unbeaten half-century to continue his strong start to the season.

While the home side pushed hard for outright, the Dales managed to bat to stumps, finishing with 5/45, as Tout once again bowled phenomenally, snaring five wickets to finish with nine for the match.

In the remaining matches, Narre Warren (3/227) enjoyed a comfortable win against Narre North (151 and 2/42) at Narre Warren North Reserve, while Dingley (199) snared an important win against Dandenong West (127). cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Adam Hrisovergi was a picture of concentration for Cranbourne.

Frank 'Hollywood' Byrne with Brian Biasci.

Franky goes to Hollywood Skip Frank Byrne returned from his short holiday trip to Hollywood, USA to put on a star performance against Mulgrave Country Club - backed up by his outstanding rink of 'A list' bowlers, co-starring Brian Biasci and Doug Boggie who made up a great supporting act to win by an impressive 14 shots and contribute to an Academy Award performance for Cranbourne Bowls Club - winning in total by 37 shots and picking up a full sweep of awards of 18 points against Mulgrave.

SIDE 1, DIVISION 2 Coach Lyn Quigg was very satisfied with maximum points to Cranbourne. He went on to

say: "(It was) a great effort from our top side today, we are playing some excellent standard of bowls at the moment and we played to our strengths, which gave us the result we were looking for".

All four rinks won with outstanding results from skip Frank 'Hollywood' Byrne winning by 14 shots, while skip Ray Travica won by 10 shots, Mark Bland won by five shots, and Lyn Quigg won by eight shots.

Cranbourne 91 (18 points) defeated Mulgrave Country Club 54 (0 points).

SIDE 2, DIVISION 2 Skip John Mulder had a good day with a great

effort from his team mates Frank Male, Hans Worstelling, and Gary Farrington who won by seven shots - but they had little support from the other three rinks, which could not match it with their Clayton opponents.

Cranbourne 71 (2 points) lost to Clayton 96 (16 points).

SIDE 3, DIVISION 4 The grass green at home was in first class condition, which served Cranbourne well - particularly skip Peter Colthup and his team of Sandra Mueller, Brian Legg and Frida Farrell, who were the rink of the day, winning by 17 shots and well supported by all rinks giving

Cranbourne total victory by 34 shots.

Cranbourne 88 (16 points) defeated Pakenham 54 (2 points).

SIDE 4, DIVISION 6 Skip Gerry Dudink and his team of Stan Williams, Russell Waters, and Derek Maguire was slow off the mark early in the day but they eventually caught up and by the end of the day they were six shots up and the only winning rink against Mordialloc with Cranbourne going down by 17 shots in total.

Cranbourne 62 (2 points) lost to Mordialloc 79 (16 points).

Casey softballersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; improvement is there for all to see It was another great weekend of softball for Casey, with the club's junior teams coming along in leaps and bounds.

In the mixed under-15s, the Cobras Grey came up against Doveton. In a strong batting display from both teams, the Cobras were the eventual winners 15-9. Berwick came up against Cobras Maroon, who were too strong for Berwick winning 14-6.

The mixed under-13s featured the big clash between Berwick and the Royal Falcons. Ultimately, great batting and fielding from Berwick saw them win 14-4. In the other game,

Cobras came up against Doveton who battled hard, with Cobras winning 13-9.

All the players in both the under-13 and under-15 mixed teams are improving their skills, gaining knowledge of the game, building their confidence, and - most of all - enjoying softball.

With three games in social women's, MVP came up against Berwick Geronimo. Geronimo was a little slow to start but, once the side got going, put in a very strong batting display to win 23-6. There were home runs to Sandra Whalley, Deirdre Craig and Caroline Willem-

sen from Geronimo, as well as Ash Paterson from MVP. Berwick Chickasaw played Chiefs United, with Chiefs winning 16-9; while there was a very close game between Cranbourne Comets and Narre Warren Penguins.

The Penguins picked up a few players this week from Doveton and, courtesy of a late surge, came out 6-4 winners.

Open women's 2 saw two teams dominate, with Doveton going down to Young Guns 17-4; and Casey Combined defeating Berwick Cheyenne 20-2.

In the open women's 1 clash between Berwick and Chiefs United, a very strong second innings from the Chiefs saw them win 20-9 thanks to strong hitting from Sala Feulufau and pitching from Ariana Hollis.

In the open men's grade, the Cranbourne Asteroids went down 13-5 to Chiefs United.

In a closer contest, the Berwick Araphos beat Cobras 11-5.

Wheelchair softball starts this Saturday at Sweeney Reserve on Melzak Way in Berwick.

For more information, call Roy Davie on 0403 623 434.

Pennant returns in a successful weekend for Narre Warren The return of Saturday pennant was another successful day for all four Narre Warren teams.

At Fountain Gate, Division 3 welcomed Burden Park. Geoff Ampt, Philip Howard, Wilma Stevenson and Zak Storm led the way with a 14 shot win (26-12), while Iain Stevenson (subbed

by Margaret Hyam), Reg Young, Mark Groom and Cam Lee won 28-16, Eric Sydenham, Wally Finlayson, Colin Groom and Jim Millar won 20-11, and Graham Dodd, Peter Groom, Joe Selfridge and Jim Kempf also won (22-14).

Narre Warren (1) 18-96 defeated Burden Park (2) 0-53.

Division 4 was at Hampton Park for the club's second win for the day. Les Clement, Joe McGuire, Michael Toole and Norm Hosmer were the big winners (34-10), while Keith Mark, Brian Nicholls, Carl Lapham and Stan Robinson won 21-13, and Pauline Kempf, Wilma Haringsma, David Wilkinson and Ralph Devonshire won 20-17. Gary Wilson, Zade Bulmer, Michael Graham and Geoff Miller just missed, going down 20-21.

Narre Warren (2) 16-95 defeated Hampton cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

Park (2) 2-61.

Division 5 had the long trip to Chruchill Waverley Golf, and also came home winners.

Darren Moore, Stan Bulmer, Ernesto Vergara and John Zanon won 20-10, while Arthur Fitt, Janice Moran, Peter Castricum and Glen Cadman won 19-13, and Dermot McConville, Peter Wilson, Paul McNamara and Susan Ellery won 16-11. Helen McCarthy, Toa Retzlaff, Luca Klarica and John Uren battled hard, but went down 18-27.

Narre Warren (3) 16-73 defeated Chruchill/ Waverley Golf 2-61.

Division 7 was also at Fountain Gate against Moorabbin and had a good four rink win. Jim Stewart, Bill Sheehan, Rudi Pompe and Brian Fraser won well, 25-17, Len O'Brien, Graham Peterson, John Green and Geoffrey Lee won 19-10, Jeanette Cox, Diane Peterson, Truus Henneman and Andy Tobler won 22-14, and Rudi Oost, Jacqueline Moody, Steve Hyam and Wayne Grimsey won 18-13.

Narre Warren (4) 18-84 defeated Moorabbin (5) 0-54.

Narre Warren's Zak Storm.

Darren Moore rolls one down the green for the Narre Warren Bowls Club.

Thursday, 28 November, 2019

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STAR NEWS 31

Cranbourne MG cranbournemg.com.au

YES PLEASE

MG ZS ESSENCE

MG3 AUTO a

b

$ 26,990

$15,990

FROM

TOP OF THE RANGE. ALL OPTIONS INCLUDED.

DRIVEAWAY NO MORE TO PAY 12434962-CG49-19

DRIVEAWAY NO MORE TO PAY

Cranbourne MG | 215 South Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne | Ph 5907 7414

cranbournemg.com.au

MG ZS ESSENCE COMES STANDARD WITH:

Premium finishes

Panoramic sunroof (ZS only)

8 inch touch screen

a $26,990 is the driveaway price for MG ZS Essence MY19 model (as shown) including metallic paint (RRP $500). b $15,990 is the driveaway price for MY18 MG3 Core excluding metallic paint. Metallic paint is available as an optional extra at RRP $500. a,b Available at participating MG dealers. Ends 25/12/19. While stocks last.

Not available to fleet, government or rental buyers, or with other offers. ^7 year factory warranty & !7 year roadside assistance T&C’s at www.mgmotor.com.au/warranty. Not available to fleet, gov’t, rental, hire car or chauffeur buyers. MG Motor Australia reserve the right to change or extend these offers. LMCT 0011602

32 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 28 November, 2019

cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au