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A special birthday... no doubt The birthday of Evergreen Retirement Village’s first resident was celebrated in style, with a famous movie character paying a visit to Pakenham. The village matriarch, Enid McFarlane, turned 89 on Monday 11 May, but her Evergreen family was determined to not let Covid-19 rain on her parade. A dance performance by Mrs Doubtfire and some cake and music proved the perfect birthday surprise for Mrs McFarlane. “Her face lit up like a Christmas tree, she was absolutely over the moon,” Evergreen manager Annie Roberts said. For the full story and more pictures, pick up a copy of this week’s Pakenham-Berwick Gazette or subscribe to the digital edition at www.pakenham.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe
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Troubled ‘tribute’
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“It was in an area where there’s no people around, you are probably just jealous you didn’t get to see it.” When asked why the mourners didn’t remember their mate by placing flowers at his resting place, the girl responded: “He’d rather a skid”. Ms Rockey said she wished people would think before they did “outrageous things”, stating the dangerous behaviour wasn’t justified. “I think if you want to honour a mate, do it some other way,” she said. “It’s very childish behaviour on their behalf. I just wish the ones of today would think before they did these outrageous things.”
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hooning in the area. Police attended the scene and patrolled the area however they were unable to locate anyone. Social media comments seen by Star News indicate that the burnouts were being performed in honour of a young man. “A young guy died a few years back and his mates do it this time every year,” one woman explained. Another woman, who presumably took part in the tribute in some form, commented on the post stating the events occur once a year. “Doesn’t matter how he passed, it is how we remember him and this was a banging way of doing it,” the woman said.
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The sound of screeching tyres and the smell of burning rubber woke Pakenham residents, as a group of hoons allegedly took to the streets to honour a mate. Nearby resident, Stacey Rockey, told Star News she heard a car performing burn outs near McGregor Road before dispersing to a street near Pakenham Secondary College on Sunday night, 10 May. “I opened my front door as I could hear noises,” she said. “I heard a car doing burn outs and I could also hear people yelling as if they were cheering.”
Ms Rockey believes about 10 people were involved in the activity, which occurred just before 10pm. “It went on for at least 10 minutes,” she explained. Ms Rockey took to a local Facebook community page to vent her frustration, stating similar events had occurred over the weekend. “If they want to do things like that, find somewhere safe as Pakenham is a community with elderly people, kids, animals and we want to feel safe,” she said. “Right now, it doesn’t feel safe.” A Victoria Police spokeswoman confirmed that police were called to a school near McGregor Road following possible reports of
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By Mitchell Clarke
THANK YOU For the way we’ve faced these past few weeks. With courage. With humility. And with hope. We’ve kept our distance, we’ve looked out for each other and we’ve kept our cool. Thank you especially to those who have been tested. Because of your efforts, we’ve achieved the biggest testing blitz in our state’s history. Or to use Victoria’s standard unit of measurement – more than one MCG’s worth of Victorians who’ve played their part in protecting our state. Thanks to you, we are inding out more about the spread of coronavirus in our community. If you haven’t been tested, and you are feeling unwell, you can still visit one of the regional clinics or speak to your GP. To ind out how and where you can be tested go to vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Because getting tested keeps us together.
visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
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Life in prison for killer By Cam Lucadou-Wells The intruder who murdered a Pakenham mother-of-three and seriously wounded an elderly Endeavour Hills widow in their own homes in 2013 has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a 36-year minimum non-parole period. Scott Alan Murdoch, 42, will be eligible for parole as a 74-year-old - having served 1491 days in pre-sentence detention. Supreme Court of Victoria judge Jane Dixon said she would have rejected the possibility of parole if not for Murdoch’s “belated” guilty pleas. The Dandenong-born man pleaded guilty to the “savage” murder of Kylie Blackwood and to inflicting intentional serious injury to 72-yearold Ilona Prohaska. She noted that parole was not guaranteed at the earliest date. Murdoch may serve every day of the rest of his life behind bars. The two “cowardly” stabbing attacks occurred within three months in 2013. At the time, Murdoch was on parole for a similarly brutal stabbing and bashing of Karen Cheeseman in her Berwick home in 2006. Justice Dixon said Murdoch had targeted women alone at home with no chance to escape. He’d shown no interest in their welfare after the attacks. He’d also stolen his victims’ bank cards, attempting to use them at ATMs soon after the attacks. Murdoch had tried to cover his tracks, tried to solicit false alibis from third parties and initially denied his involvement to police. A “brazen” Murdoch attended appointments with his parole officer on the same day as his attack on Ms Prohaska - before and after the event. His deadly offending during parole pointed to “poor” rehabilitation prospects. It underlined the need to protect the community from him, she said. There was “little evidence” of remorse. Ms Blackwood’s murder had “sent shockwaves through the community”, particularly residents in her locale, Justice Dixon said.
Life in prison for murderer Scott Murdoch. Ms Blackwood’s family members remain deeply impacted, her daughters “irrevocably scarred” by discovering their mother’s body. Ms Prohaska, now 80, had suffered lifethreatening stab wounds, remained wracked with pain and fear, and had lost capacity to enjoy life. She’d shown “significant courage” to recover as she had, Justice Dixon said. Murdoch was sentenced as a “serious violent offender” due to his prior history. So, protection of the community was a prime factor in sentencing, Judge Dixon said. Defence barrister Jim Shaw expressed Murdoch’s remorse for Ms Blackwood’s murder during the hearing, but none for Ms Prohaska, Justice Dixon noted. Murdoch had offered little explanation for his “obscure” motives. Justice Dixon said he wasn’t just motivated by theft. There were elements of pre-planning, loitering near the homes before the attacks and an aim to inflict significant harm on the occupants. His guilty plea came after Justice Dixon ruled in favour of admitting “coincidence” evidence linking the two attacks. He’d afterwards tried to withdraw his plea to Ms Prohaska’s attack. In considering the question of parole, Justice Dixon said it was in the public interest to encourage offenders to plead guilty for the gravest crimes. She noted that only one previous life-without-parole sentence in Victoria had involved an
Pakenham mother of three Kylie Blackwood, who was murdered by Scott Murdoch in her home in 2013. ter, mother and friend. accused who pleaded guilty. Murdoch was beginning his term while mid“We hope that the parole system will be dle-aged and was likely to be relatively isolated more accountable for whom they release in the as a “protection prisoner, Judge Dixon said. future.” She noted Murdoch was a child sex abuse Ms Prohaska’s family also thanked Victoria victim, and his borderline personality disorder Police’s Armed Crime Squad for their “tireless had led to self-harm attempts. efforts”. In a statement, the Blackwood and Whitta “She is happy with the sentence imposed families thanked the Homicide Squad for their and happy that the matter is now finalised.” “persistence and efforts to get a result”. Murdoch was sentenced to life imprison“After six-and-a-half years we have some ment for Ms Blackwood’s murder. He received closure but it does not bring our daughter back. a 10-year concurrent jail term for his attack on “Kylie was a dearly loved daughter, wife, sis- Ms Prohaska.
Screech of brakes, a scrape and one lucky escape By Jessica Anstice A driver allegedly ran a red light at a busy Pakenham intersection causing a collision on Thursday. The incident occurred about 12.30pm on 7 May, at the Princes Highway and Lakeside Boulevard intersection near the police station. The force of the two-car crash left the front number plate of one car pinned to the other car that was involved. It's believed one driver was crossing the intersection from Lakeside to Bunnings, while the second vehicle was turning from the opposite side, heading towards Officer. SES attended the scene but no one was trapped or injured.
The force of the two-car crash left the front number plate of one car pinned to the other car that was involved.
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Exhibition of digital arts By Jessica Anstice
Together We Can is an initiative committed to stopping, preventing and ending family violence in Cardinia Shire. 197405
Picture: GARY SISSONS
A fair cop at home By Mitchell Clarke A Victoria Police operation targeting family violence during the Covid-19 lockdown has uncovered the brutal reality for countless victims. Operation Ribbon, which commenced on 13 April, was set up to prevent the anticipated increase of family violence incidents, as families were cooped up indoors with limited opportunities to access support. Almost 800 family violence offences have been detected across the state, including assault and breaches of intervention order. More than 2430 checks had been carried out, including 748 compliance checks on highrisk perpetrators. As a result, 100 people have been charged and remanded for family violence related and other criminal offences, while another 98 people were arrested to appear in court. A Victoria Police spokeswoman wasn’t able to provide a localised breakdown of the figures however WHISE (Women’s Health in the South East) said rates in local pockets were “quite high”. In 2019, the total number of family violence incidents in Cardinia rose by almost 25 percent to 1408 incidents, according to data obtained from the Crime Statistics Agency. WHISE CEO Kit McMahon embraced the operation and said it was “fantastic” that checks were being carried out. “We warmly welcome the focus,” she said. “This is absolutely required and the statistics prove that ... I think the focus and the sight that Operation Ribbons provides, particularly checking on higher risks, is important.” Throughout the pandemic, new families have presented to WHISE and case workers had also reported more “extreme incidents of violence”.
Ms McMahon added that in some instances Covid-19 had been used as an excuse to control behaviour. “It’d be like walking on eggshells all the time. The stress would be enormous,” she said. “I can only imagine how horrifying it would be, which is why this operation is so important.” WHISE will continue to provide the opportunity for victims of violence to seek out help however the community is being urged to do their part. “Police are on the frontline, but they can’t do it on their own, we all have a responsibility if you see something, say something,” she said. “If you hear the sounds of violence or you witness it, report it. You don’t need to put yourself in danger and if you see poor behaviour, call it out. The standard you walk past is the standard you accept. “It’s never acceptable. Violence is never acceptable.” Victoria Police chief commissioner Graham Ashton said Operation Ribbon was a stern reminder to perpetrators that the force was “watching”. “These results are a tragic reminder that while home is supposed to be the safest place to be, we know for some, it is the most dangerous with people experiencing abuse at the hands of their loved ones,” he said.
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Titled ‘Flourish’, the exhibition theme will explore how Cardinia shire residents will flourish as the community moves out of isolation life and into a new normal.
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“You can leave your home if that means you are escaping harm ... Police will help you do this.” Operation Ribbon will continue during the coronavirus pandemic and into the future. Meanwhile, the State Government have launched an advertising campaign, a timely reminder of the support services on offer. The campaign, Respect Each Other: ‘Call It Out’ will run in multiple languages across metropolitan, regional and rural television, radio and Spotify, as well as a number of social media channels. Prevention of Family Violence Minister Gabrielle Williams said the campaign was a timely reminder to Victorians that support services are open and available. “We understand social isolation and physical distancing is extremely difficult but there’s never an excuse for family violence – as a community we need to call it out and take care of each other during this difficult period,” Ms Williams said. “We want Victorians to know that help is there if you need it – if you’re experiencing, at risk of, or witness any kind of family violence – please reach out for help and support.” If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800 RESPECT ON 1800 737 732. In an emergency, call 000.
Local art lovers and community members are invited to a virtual community art exhibition that Cardinia Shire Council is hosting. The virtual art exhibition will be held on the council's 'Creating Cardinia' community engagement platform and promoted on the Cardinia Cultural Centre's Facebook page from Monday 11 May to Tuesday 30 June. Titled 'Flourish', the exhibition theme will explore how Cardinia shire residents will flourish as the community moves out of isolation life and into a new normal. All art forms will be accepted in accordance with the submission guidelines and all levels of artistic skill are encouraged to participate. The council hopes to display selected Flourish entries in a physical exhibition at the Cardinia Cultural Centre or other community art spaces within Cardinia shire. This community-led art exhibition is another way the council is connecting Cardinia during the coronavirus pandemic. While individuals, businesses and the local community are all facing new challenges with the current physical distancing requirements, there are many people in the community who are seeing this time as an opportunity to look within and reflect on what they consider to be most important to them. They are taking this time of social isolation to regenerate and refocus, to help those less fortunate or who are more vulnerable, and to flourish, in preparation for emerging from isolation renewed. Everyone interested is encouraged to share their own creativity, whatever their preferred artistic medium. Artwork submissions close at 5pm on Friday 29 June. For more information and to enter your artwork, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/ConnectingCardinia or call the council's arts and culture team on 1300 787 624.
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A new opportunity to study By Mitchell Clarke
Janelle with one of her newest housemates last October. 198572
Pictures: GARY SISSONS
Federation University has introduced a range of new courses for those wanting to upskill and re-train throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. The 11 short online courses were launched on Monday 11 May and will give regional Victorians the chance to study within the realms of health, education, IT, engineering and environmental studies. Each program was identified as a priority area by the Federal Government's higher education relief package, which was developed to train people in sectors where there is a strong demand for skilled workers. "We know this is a very challenging time for thousands of people who have lost work as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic," Federation University vice-chancellor Helen Bartlett said. "These short courses provide people with an opportunity to quickly boost their skills or train in a new area where there are jobs and a demand for skilled workers." The course fees will be discounted by around 60 percent, with the Federal Government pledging to subsidise the fees. All courses lead into university degrees and include: Vocational Education and Training Sport, Physical and Outdoor Education Principles of Nutrition and Health Promotion Principles of Conservation and Sustainability
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The six-month courses will begin in second semester in July. More information at: federation.edu.au/ future-students/study-at-federation/whichcourse/higher-education-short-courses/.
Spider horde Don’t power a house fire swarm again By Mitchell Clarke A Pakenham house which was famously "infested" by trapdoor spiders last year has again become inundated with the unwelcome guests. The house of Janelle, surname withheld, had become a haven for hundreds of hairy critters, who were burying themselves all over the property, as reported by the Gazette in October last year. The unpleasant arachnids disappeared over summer, providing some much needed relief for Janelle, but almost six months later, they're back and bigger than ever. "I've come to terms with it so I'm just going to try to stop and control them early and hopefully it won't become an infestation again," she explained. According to the Australian museum, brown trapdoor spiders, which are often mistaken for the deadly funnel-web, aren't dangerous to humans but can provide a painful bite. Having become somewhat of a spider expert, Janelle came to the conclusion that the spiders only stuck around during the wetter months. "When the ground hardens up after winter, they disappear because they can't dig their tunnels but as soon as it starts raining and it gets wet, they suddenly re-appear again," she said. After wild weather recently lashed the state's south east, Janelle woke to find her back yard had become filled with about 50 new holes. She's now able to identify the difference between a male and female spider, judging on
the size of the burrow. "The holes are really quite deep and intricate," she said. "The females are so much bigger, probably the size of a five to ten cent coin whereas the males would only be about two to three millimetres." The new infestation came just days before Pakenham and neighbouring suburbs were blanketed in cob webs, a phenomenon known as ballooning. "Oh that was just an absolute nightmare," Janelle laughed. "I went outside and my backyard was completely filled with the webs. "I felt like they were coming from the sky and from down beneath me. It was horrible. Everything was under a blanket of webs." Used by spiderlings as a way to disperse, ballooning is a process by which spiders move through the air, releasing trails of silk that lifts them up and into the wind. Despite the fascinating phenomenon, the spiderlings who took over the streets are in no way related to the creepy crawlies living with Janelle. Desperate for a permanent fix, she's still managed to find the funny side. "I'm keeping the lawns cut down quite frequently and inspecting for holes every morning," she laughed. "I make my coffee and I put on my spider boots and just walk around my yard like an absolute psycho. "If I can get rid of the females, I'm hoping the males will also leave, because they'll have nothing to play with."
With the increased numbers of people working from home or remotely from their normal workplace, CFA is warning of the potential for an increase in structural fires. Deputy chief officer Trevor Owen said using faulty or damaged electrical equipment could result an increased risk of fire at home. He said people should ensure their appliances were in good condition before plugging them in. “People need to remember that when electrical appliances are left on for an extended period of time they could overheat and have disastrous effects,” he said. “We are urging residents to check their electrical appliances including computers and televisions which are more readily used in home at present. Check you’re not overloading power boards or have loose cables, ensure monitors, laptops, televisions and other equipment have a good air flow around them and are not in confined spaces or covered. “Make sure you turn off electrical appliances before going to bed. When leaving your home unattended it is best to unplug your electrical appliances. “Our firefighters don’t want anyone to come home to their house on fire, so spending the time to check your appliances’ condition and ensuring you turn them off properly is essential.” Electrical appliances for product recall notices can be checked by visiting, www.productsafety.gov.au.
Power boards should be used according to manufacturers’ instructions, never overload and check regularly for damage. The CFA also issued some electrical appliances safety tips: Always follow the manufacturers’ instructions when using any electrical appliance. Use low wattage globes in lamps. Turn off all electrical appliances at the power point when not in use. Only use certified electrical tradespeople to repair damaged/faulty electrical appliances, wiring or equipment. Avoid using double adaptors. Use power boards according to manufacturers’ instructions, never overload and check regularly for damage. Check your electrical equipment for product recall notices and receive product recall alerts via email using www.productsafety. gov.au.
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OPINION
Recycling wrongs cost thousands
Freeze our rates
Casey Council has launched a Recycling Right campaign to clean up a scourge of contaminated household waste. A recent audit by the council found 26 per cent of waste disposed for recycling was not recyclable. Chief contaminants were bagged rubbish, clothes, bagged recycling and soft plastics. Casey sustainability and waste manager Michael Jansen said incorrect items in recycling bins could contaminate a truck’s whole load - meaning it all gets poured into landfill. It also leads to contractors passing on greater costs to Casey and its ratepayers via the waste services charge. “Each 1 per cent of contamination adds about $50,000 per annum on top of the base cost for recycling for Council,” Mr Jansen said. “Council is committed to improving recycling for the benefit of all Casey residents and the environment overall, however it is critical that all residents play their part and keep contaminants out of the recycling system.” Items that can be recycled in Casey include paper and cardboard, metals, glass and plastic food containers and bottles. Lids and caps should be removed from jars and bottles.
I write this open letter to you to ask that you would consider having no rate rise in the City of Casey for the 2020-2021 financial year. The Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association is aware that not increasing rates by the allowable rate cap of two per cent will inevitably put the budget of the City of Casey under some pressure. We believe, however, that in this time of economic hardship, freezing the average rates in Casey would be the fair and equitable thing to do. Currently, all three broad categories of ratepayers in Casey - homeowners, businesses and landlords are facing economic uncertainty and worse. A rate freeze would provide a small level of recognition that the income of many Casey ratepayers has fallen, or is likely to fall, or be stagnant in the current ongoing environment. While we understand that the City of Casey gives some consideration to those facing financial hardship, ultimately we have a system where many whose income has reduced or frozen will still be expected to pay their full rates either at the next due date or at some point in the future, thus continuing to put such ratepayers under pressure. We believe that the City of Casey has the financial capacity and an obligation to absorb the loss in revenue such a rate freeze would bring about. There are numerous examples of past imprudent spending practises such as the $135,000,000 plus spent on Bunjil Place and hundreds of thousands spent on the risky 'China Engagement Strategy'. If this type of spending were to be curtailed and perhaps the Bunjil Place loan repayments renegotiated, pressure could be taken off the council's budget, allowing for a rate freeze or possibly even a rate reduction. We appreciate that some aspects of unnecessary expenditure have already been reduced in recent months. We ask that you take this opportunity to further reduce spending where possible, so that a rate freeze to the people of Casey may be delivered. Brendan Browne, Secretary, Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association.
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Pink Panther spotted in Hampton Park. 208541
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
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On 12 May a story was shared on the Cranbourne and Berwick Star News Facebook pages about ex-Casey councillor Rex Flannery calling for 'dodgy' colleagues to be struck off from the honour rolls. Here is how our readers reacted online: Karen Jarman: 100 per cent agree. They don't deserve that honour Sue Baldizoni: I agree! I think they also need to look at all others that might have been associated with them in the near past... Ric Stewart: I know Rex and l stand behind him as one of very, very few who maintained his integrity in the face of a self-righteous local government who for the most part were only in it for themselves!! Mel Grivas: I'm still annoyed that after the announcement of the new budget our rates are going up around $40 yet again! It's just a disgrace anyway. You look at it Susan Crowley: They just turned a blind eye....that's what they do...cheating is the name of the game! Gaye Guest: POT V KETTLE! Too late now, the expense to remove will override this request! Adam Sadiqzai: I totally agree if they are found guilty in any way their names should be removed! Robert Wingrave: And what did Flannery achieve while he was in council? Tracy Anne Johnson: Agree remove delete
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs down To all the people on Facebook complaining about how many people were at the shops on the weekend while they were "just out getting essentials". I don't know how many people were at the shops because I wasn't there but what makes your essentials more important than theirs?!
Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600 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
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Thumbs down 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.
To the petrol stations increasing the price of petrol before we even get through this pandemic.
Thumbs up To Shanikas Berwick for delivering a fabulous meal for six an hour after ordering. Best meal for ages!
Thumbs up Not only to the frontline staff as we know them but also all the others who are very close to that front line but don't get the recognition. I'm stuck in hospital and have really seen so many different workers, Cleaners, Administration, tea ladies, physio and the many logistics people we do not see, that still have to handle all the materials, waste and residue from the wards.
Thumbs up To all the kids for their efforts in remote learning and the great effort of the teachers and aides.
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The attack happened on a popular Pakenham trail. 208475
The dog launched at the man out of nowhere. 208475
Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS
Small bark, savage bite By Mitchell Clarke A Pakenham man is urging pet owners to control their dogs after he was set upon by a small dog while walking along a popular trail. The man, who wishes to remain anonymous, was walking around a corner at Kennedy Creek on Saturday 9 May, when the dog, which was being walked by a young girl, launched at him. The feisty small breed, which is believed to be a Jack Russell, bit the man, ripping his pants and drawing blood. “It jumped up and bit him at the top of his
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thigh,” the man’s wife explained. “It was not a deep bite at all - more of a graze - but enough to be painful and leave a mark.” It’s understood the girl, who is believed to be about 13 years old, apologised but there was no formal exchange of details. “As it had just started hailing, my hubby swore at the dog and then kept running,” the wife added. “He contemplated kicking or whacking the dog out of frustration and anger but he didn’t want to scare the young girl.” Following the attack, the man was forced to
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seek medical advice where he was prescribed antibiotics. “The GP said it’s not really a matter of ‘if’ you will get an infection but ‘when’, as a dogs mouth carries so much bacteria,” she said. “He is ok but I would hate to think what would have happened if our toddler or dogs were with him.” It’s not known why the dog attacked, however the couple is of the belief that it was startled and could have been trying to protect the girl. As exercise remains one of five reasons to leave the house during the Covid-19 pandemic, more people are out walking their dogs.
The couple said it was important for pet owners to remain in control of their animals and to keep them on a lead at all times. “We’ve definitely noticed more people and dogs out, a lot that are off lead especially around the Silver Gums estate and the Kennedy Creek walk,” the woman explained. “People need to be aware that not all dogs or people are ok with being approached by other dogs. “I won’t walk our two dogs unless he’s with me as I don’t feel safe with the number of dogs I see walking around off lead, it’s definitely a huge issue in this area.”
Drouin
Unit No. Unit1 Unit 1 UnitUnit 2 2 UnitUnit 3 3 UnitUnit 4 4
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Size 3 Bedroom
Price
3 Bedroom $379,950 - $409,950 2 Bedroom 2 Bedroom $349,950 - $379,950
12448102-FA19-20
COMPLETION IN 6 WEEKS
2 Bedroom 2 Bedroom $349,950 - $379,950 4 Bedroom 4 Bedroom $379,950 - $409,950
Thursday, 14 May, 2020
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STAR NEWS 7
COVID-19 update A message from the Mayor “We’re still here for our community and our staff are continuing to work hard across the shire even though we’ve had to make some changes to the way we do things due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. “Like so many other organisations and businesses, we’ve had to think outside the box and come up with new and innovative ways to serve our community while continuing to follow the social distancing restrictions that are in place. “We’ve had to adapt and do things a little differently, but our focus and priority remain the same – our community, continuing to deliver
essential services and providing our assistance and support in any way that we can. “We’ve really enjoyed hearing from members of the community about all the ways in which local businesses and residents have been adapting and coming up with new and innovative ways to stay connected, continue to serve their customers and support one another through these unusual times. “Let’s continue to work together and support each other, and please know that Council is still here to support you in any way we can.” Cr Jeff Springfield Mayor, Cardinia Shire Council
Pakenham screening clinic
Where to find help
Monash Health has opened a Community COVID-19 Screening Clinic in Pakenham. This testing is available without a GP referral and is for anyone in the Cardinia Shire community who has symptoms, no matter how mild.
Our Coronavirus Online Help Hub features information and resources to help community members and businesses with a range of topics, including: • Health advice • Family violence support • Emergency food relief • Tips on ways to look after your mental health • Information about support available for individuals, households and local businesses.
The clinic is open seven days 8.30am-4pm until Friday 15 May at Pakenham Community Health Centre, Henty Way, Pakenham. Please note: children under 8 cannot be screened at this clinic. Testing for children is available at Monash Health clinics at Clayton, Berwick and Dandenong. More info from the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/victorian-publiccoronavirus-disease-covid-19#where-can-i-get-tested-forcoronavirus-covid-19
There is also our ‘call back’ option if you would like Council to contact you to assist in finding or understanding relevant information, including support in accessing emergency relief. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/onlinehelphub
Do you need assistance? Our Community and Business Support Package includes a range of support initiatives to help you cope with the unprecedented effects of COVID-19: • Coronavirus Online Help Hub • Dedicated ‘Call Back’ support team • Business concierge service • Rent relief options for commercial tenants in Council properties • More time to pay animal registration renewals • Faster payments for suppliers and contractors • Rebates for some business fees and charges • Extended due dates for rates • Interest-free periods for rates • Rates payment plans • Rates rebate for eligible Health Care Card holders.
Have your say A survey has been created to help us better understand local community needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, so we can continue to support our residents and businesses.
COVID-19 community survey
To access the survey directly, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/COVID19survey or find out more at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
Anyone experiencing financial hardship or who is worried about their ability to make payments is encouraged to contact us on 1300 787 624. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
Services and facilities update Bins and waste services • Hard and bundled green waste collections will run zone-by-zone until 22 May. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/hardwaste • Household bin collection continues as normal, but bins may be collected earlier in the day than usual. Remember to put bins out the night before collection day. Please do not place bins behind parked cars or park in front of bins. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/rubbish
For full details and the most up-to-date information: Phone: 1300 787 624 Web: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/coronavirus Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au
Flu vaccinations Flu vaccinations are now available for eligible community members through our free community immunisation service, subject to availability. www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/flu Latest information For up-to-date information about impacted facilities, services, meetings and events in Cardinia Shire, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/coronavirus We’re still here to help! Our dedicated Customer Service team is still available to assist you. Our customer service centre at Officer may be temporarily closed but you can still contact us by phone or email, or access a range of online services via our website.
More info: Victorian Government: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus Australian Government: www.australia.gov.au
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Thursday, 14 May, 2020
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Shire
News
Council’s parks crew has been busy maintaining bushland, reserves and parks, including Emerald Lake Park.
Council’s Maternal and Child Health team is providing an over-the-phone consultation service to families in the shire.
Support across the shire While the community has been spending time at home, Cardinia Shire Council has continued to deliver essential services across the shire as well as pandemic support and relief initiatives. Parks, reserves and roads Council's parks crews have been working hard to maintain roadsides and townships, as well as bushlands, reserves and parks. Recently crews have been working on: Widening tracks at Emerald Lake Park by pruning back encroaching vegetation. These works will benefit the community by allowing free access along the walking tracks when the park reopens. Preparing for the 2020 tree planting season. Each year Council plants approximately 1,000 street trees throughout the shire's urban areas. Weed control works in Manoora Reserve, Maryknoll. This reserve is just one of more than 70 bush reserves managed as part of our bushland maintenance program, which works to reduce weed cover and protect and increase biodiversity. Street hot washing and cleansing to provide a cleaner and more hygienic area for the public. Team members are being careful to work at a distance.
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Council’s roads team is also hard at work with maintenance and improvement works still being carried out on the shire’s extensive road network. With 862 kilometres of unsealed roads and 670 kilometres of sealed roads across the shire, Council’s crews continue to carry out roadworks with some changes to the way they operate to ensure social distancing and increased hygiene measures. Support for young people and families Young people across the shire can still reach out to Council’s dedicated Youth Services team while My Place youth centre is temporarily closed. Young people can seek support, information and guidance by phone, text, email or video call. The Youth Services team is available on business days from 9am to 5pm by phoning 1800 496 884 (free call) or emailing myplace@ cardinia.vic.gov.au In addition, young people can access information about services and links to useful resources via Council’s online Youth Services Directory. It has information on a range of topics including food, financial or housing support, employment, mental health support, general health, family violence and sexual health support, and education. Visit www.cardinia.vic. gov.au/youthservices Families across the shire also continue to be
For full details and the most up-to-date information: Phone: 1300 787 624 Web: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/coronavirus Email: mail@cardinia.vic.gov.au
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
supported, with Council’s Maternal and Child Health (MCH) team providing an over-thephone consultation service. Phone consultations are available for the key ages and stages of a child’s development, and home visits are available for newborns and two-week-old babies to provide information and support including weighing and physically checking the baby. Support for business Many local businesses have had to adapt and change the way they do things due to the impact of Coronavirus. To help support local businesses, the Casey Cardinia Region is offering tailored services and information sessions, including: Fortnightly Essential Webinars Free mentoring sessions (via phone) Monthly Industry Innovation Masterclass Webinars An #ImStillOpen social campaign. Find out more at www.caseycardinia.com.au If you are, or know of, a local business owner that is need of assistance and support, visit Council’s Coronavirus Online Help Hub at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/onlinehelphub for information and advice on Council and government assistance packages.
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Local business that have been impacted are also invited to participate in the South East Melbourne Regional Business Survey. The survey will help inform local recovery and support programs that best respond to businesses’ needs and assist Council in advocating to State and Federal Government. This survey closes at 5pm on 16 May. To participate and for more information visit https://creating. cardinia.vic.gov.au/regional-business-survey Council’s Economic Development team offers a central contact point to help businesses get the information they need and navigate information, permit and registration processes. Call the team on 1300 787 624. Community support Council’s dedicated Emergency Support Team has provided assistance and support to more than 200 community members across the shire. This has included weekly calls to vulnerable residents, responding to residents’ phone enquiries or online requests for a call back, and ensuring the most up-to-date information is included on Council’s Coronavirus Online Help Hub. For more information or assistance, including support in accessing emergency relief, phone 1300 787 624 or visit www. cardinia.vic.gov.au/onlinehelphub
More info: Victorian Government: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus Australian Government: www.australia.gov.au Thursday, 14 May, 2020
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STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
‘I want their names gone’ By Brendan Rees An ex-Casey councillor has called for all former councillors and mayors' names to be removed from plaques and honour boards if found guilty of misconduct arising from an IBAC investigation. Rex Flannery, who resigned as deputy mayor along with ex-councillor Tim Jackson just days before the State Government sacked the entire council in February, said council should consider the removal of former councillors and mayors names from plaques and all landmarks - including the honour board at Bunjil Place - if they were found in breach of council's code of conduct. The council was dismissed after a stateappointed monitor found widespread "governance failures" and a bullying culture across the council - which was also made in light of corruption allegations. Mr Flannery, who holds he has kept his integrity and honesty during his term as councillor, posed the question at council's 5 May meeting where Casey administrator Neolene Duff said council would consider its response to the IBAC findings at the conclusion of Operation Sandon. "I'm thankful that IBAC has caught them out," Mr Flannery said of his former colleagues including ex-councillors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett, both of whom are 'persons of interest' in investigations into dealings with a developer. "If they are proven guilty ... I want their names removed from any plaques," he said. "If their names are not removed I will be putting forward a recommendation that my name be removed from their honour board from 2016 to 2020 and also from the wall plaque on Bunjil Place for the opening. "I'm not there for honouring glory for anything - I'm there for honesty and transparency. I will be standing firm on it.
Ex-Casey deputy mayor Rex Flannery, left, wants 'dodgy' colleagues struck off from the honour rolls. "I want my name removed because I don't want to be associated with any councillor that has brought our council into disrepute." Mr Flannery also believed term 'mayor emeritus' - as former mayor Sam Aziz likes to be known - should be removed from landmarks as well as appearing on future letterheads under Mr Aziz's name if his alleged conduct was to be proven guilty. Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association spokesman Brendan Browne supported Mr Flannery's calls saying: "We never want
this to happen again". Meanwhile, council has revealed, to date, it has spent $310,823 on legal fees in relation to IBACs Operation Sandon - with a portion being recovered under council's insurance. Casey council director of corporate services Sheena Frost said former councillors and staff called to appear before the IBAC were entitled to legal representation as per requirements under the Local Government Act through council's insurer. "As this is an ongoing matter and legal costs
are being covered by council's insurer, we are unable to provide individual cost details," she said. "Given the Operation Sandon hearings were nearing completion and about to enter the expert witness phase, we don't expect council or our insurer to be subject to any further major legal costs related to this matter. Council will provide an update on the legal costs incurred at the conclusion of this matter." The IBAC hearings has suspended its public hearings until further notice due to Covid-19.
Pakenham
Inclusions • Vinyl wrap kitchen with stone benchtops • Stainless steel electric oven • Stainless steel gas hot plates • Stainless steel range hood • Ducted heating • Ceramic floor and wall tiles as per floor plans from builders range
• Carpet to remaining areas from builders range • Stainless steel sink and flick mixer to kitchen • Chrome mixer tops from builders range • Mirrors with polished edge to bathroom • Exhaust fans to bathrooms • Roller door to garage
• Flush panel internal doors • Internal door handles • 50mm Scotia cornice throughout • White glo tub to laundry • Weathertough acrylic to all exterior • Sewer power, drainage, gas and water connections as per plans • Outdoor water taps
Whether you’re looking to downsize and keep the caravan or boat, a first home buyer looking to enter the market or savvy investor, this development has a little something for everyone. Located in an established part of Pakenham, opposite parklands and open space, the fresh air and neighbourhood vibes will have you feeling at home in no time! With close access to all the amenities such as shopping, schools, restaurants and more throughout Pakenham and surrounding towns, you’ll have everything you need. With easy access to the M1. 2 bedroom townhouses $369,000–399,000. 3 bedroom townhouses $409,000–$449,000. First Home Owner Grant $10,000 (to eligible applicants) Prices subject to change 202005019913_1-NG19-20
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Thursday, 14 May, 2020
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NEWS
QUALITY MEALS HOME DELIVERED TO YOU MENU CHICKEN PARMA ................................................ $18 W/ HAM, NAPOLI, CHEESE & FRIES
CHICKEN SCHNITZEL .......................................... $15 W/ GRAVY CHIPS & SIDE SALAD
VISTA BURGER & CHIPS .................................... $16 W/ BACON, CHEESE, TOMATO, LETTUCE, SAUCE & EGG
HOME STYLE ROAST BEEF .................................. $16 WITH ROAST VEGETABLES AND GRAVY
PASTA .............................................................. $16 Premier Daniel Andrews announces students will return to school from 26 May.
Timetable for schools By Cam Lucadou-Wells Victorian students will be returning to school in a phased opening starting Tuesday 26 May. From that day, Prep, Grade 1, Grade 2, specialist school, VCE and VCAL students will return for face-to-face teaching. Special arrangements will be made for 36,000 Year 10 students who study VCE subjects to also attend school. Other students between years 3 to 10 will continue learning remotely until Tuesday 9 June. Premier Daniel Andrews said that schools were declared safe but would be different on their re-opening - including staggered pickups and drop-offs, and staggered lunch and playtimes. Schools will implement social distancing between adult work stations, with an extra $45 million invested in daily deep cleaning in Terms 2 and 3 including frequently touched surfaces. There will also be provision for hand sanitisers and PPE equipment at schools. Teachers will be targeted for voluntary Covid-19 testing over the next two weeks. Staff over 70 years or with underlying health conditions would be allowed to work from home. School sports, assemblies, camps and excursions will not resume, drinking fountains would be closed. All students were expected to return, except for students or families with underlying medical conditions or who are immuno-compromised, Mr Andrews said. It would be "really difficult" to concurrently run a remote learning system for 50 per cent of students and a face-to-face teaching system for the other half. So far during Term 2, up to 98 per cent of students were learning remotely from home the remainder in classrooms. It had made a "profound difference" to re-
ducing the spread of coronavirus, Mr Andrews said. Victoria's Chief Health Officer, Brett Sutton, said that schools had always been considered "safe". Remote learning had been introduced due to the "uncertainty of the contribution of transmission by kids having onsite face-toface learning". The "precautionary" gradual return to school was appropriate given that new Covid-19 cases were "low and remaining low," Professor Sutton said. Overnight, three new cases of community transmission were recorded, and one in 5000 tests uncovered a positive case. Generally, if a coronavirus case is linked, a school would close for up to a few days to allow for contact tracing, Professor Sutton said. Public-transport travel was considered safe due to the lower numbers of patrons, he said. Mr Andrews said the staggered returns would allow the Government and Chief Health Officer to evaluate the impact of schools reopening and the relaxation of public and private gathering rules. "As a father of three kids who have been learning from home, I know this has been a really challenging time for many families," Mr Andrews said. "Thanks to everyone's efforts in sticking to the rules and getting tested, we're now able to start getting our kids back into the classroom." Education Minister James Merlino said early childhood long-day-care and kindergartens had remained open. He expected the 30-40 per cent kindergarten attendance rate to rise as schools re-open. Meanwhile, Victoria's recorded coronavirus cases rose to 1509 - with 17 new cases on 11 May and two reallocated interstate. Eight of those cases were linked to the Cedar Meats cluster, which now totals 85. The other nine cases are under investigation.
Young people get your creative juices flowing Cardinia Youth Services are running a writing competition for young people aged 12-24. Entries can include short stories, song lyrics, poetry and journalistic articles. Submit your piece to myplace@cardinia. vic.gov.au by Friday 22 May. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
There are prizes to be won! First prize winner receives a $100 Westfield voucher, second prize a $50 Westfield voucher, third prize a $30 voucher and a $20 Westfield voucher encouragement award. Winning pieces will be published in the Youth Services Newsletter.
WITH YOUR CHOICE OF SAUCE: BOLOGNESE OR CARBONARA
PRIMAVERA PASTA (V) ...................................... $16 SAUTÉED SEASONAL VEGETABLES TOSSED THROUGH CREAMY NAPOLITANA SAUCE
DELHI LAMB CURRY (GF) .....................................$16 WITH RICE AND FLAT BREAD
BUTTER CHICKEN CURRY (GF) ........................... $16 WITH RICE AND FLAT BREAD
CHICKEN SCALLOPINI (GF) ................................ $19 CHICKEN BREAST SAUTÉED IN A WHITE WINE BACON AND MUSHROOM CREAM SAUCE SERVED WITH STEAMED VEGETABLES OR CHIPS
VEGAN BURGER (V) ............................................ $15 VEGAN PATTIE W/ LETTUCE, CARROT, CUCUMBER, TOMATO, ONION AND BEETROOT RELISH
VEGETARIAN STIR FRY (V) (VEG) ........................ $16 HOKKIEN NOODLES TOSSED IN MIXED VEGGIES, SOY & CHILI; FINISHED W/ FRIED SHALLOTS ..................... ADD
CHICKEN $3 GRILLED SALMON PATTIES .................................. $16 SERVED WITH MEDLEY OF SAUTEED MIXED VEGETABLES, ROASTED POTATOES & GARLIC AOLI
SLOW COOKED PULLED LAMB GREEK SALAD (GF) . $18 LETTUCE, ONION, TOMATO, CUCUMBER, OLIVES & FETA FINISHED WITH OLIVE OIL & LEMON JUICE DRESSING
SOUP OF THE DAY ............................................... $6 SERVED W/ BREAD ROLL
GARLIC PIZZA ..................................................... $8 MARGHERITA PIZZA ............................................ $8
NOW HOME DELIVERING Bread, milk, free range eggs, plain flour, ice cream and butter. All sourced from local suppliers. Help us to keep our staff in work. Thank you to the locals that are banding together and supporting our business during these testing times.
The Vista Cafe at the Cardinia Cultural Centre
(03) 5945 0015 Taking Delivery Orders Tue-Sun 4-8 PM www.thevistacafe.com.au 12446875-LB16-20
Thursday, 14 May, 2020
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STAR NEWS 11
NEWS
stay connected while you stay home! Dennis Luke with his new book, Nature's Fury. 208538
The need for trusted local news and information is now more vital than ever.
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
A weather obsession
We want to keep you up to date and informed locally.
By Brendan Rees As a truck driver and a former gardener, Dennis Luke has always kept a close eye on the weather. But little did he realise his obsessions about severe weather conditions, would turn into a hobby, and become the inspiration behind his new novel, Nature's Fury. "It's based on a lot of things that I've seen and done, and experienced both with driving and the weather," the Hampton Park-based author says. The book, the first of which Mr Luke has self-published, took four-and-a-half years to write on weekends and holidays. It encapsulates tropical Cyclone Yasi, the biggest storm in Queensland's history in early 2011 - where the tail battered Victoria. The fictitious story follows three unrelated families outside a country town in north-western Victoria, where nobody knows they are about to become trapped all night, in a claustrophobic fog-riddled environment known as MacKenzie's bridge. "One thing people should know is, that it's not a story about the weather, but the weather affects the families in it" he explains. Mr Luke says the book is based on actual events over his trucking life of 51 years, and it explores themes of problem solving, bullying, fear and helping each other in times of crisis.
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"Everyone deals with the unexpected differently, just look at how everyone's reacted to this virus." Mr Luke, 67, said he provides many weather forecasts for the AFL, Melbourne storm, and the media nation-wide - but never written a fictional story. "I have learnt a lot over the time doing this book, and finding out what inspire's me" the self-taught author says. "I don't really spend a lot of time reading other people's stories. I do watch certain television and movies to get an understanding for the narrative because that's an important thing ... you need to be able to keep people in tune with the book, and wanting to read the next page." So far Mr Luke has sold 103 copies and says he's been "very happy" with the reviews - but is itching to sell more once the Berwick Market and the Gully Market in Upper Ferntree Gully reopen. "This is my first of I hope many novels. If you want to read the blurb you can find it online." The book is available for purchase at many online bookstores, or you can wait for the markets to open again soon, if you want a signed copy. To learn more about Mr Luke visit ausiedrivingweatherman on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.
Police and paramedics called to Pakenham home
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By Mitchell Clarke Police and paramedics were called to an incident at a Pakenham address on Monday night, 11 May. Crime Watch Victoria reported that emergency services were responding to an "unconfirmed weapons incident" on Acacia Court, off Henty Street, just after 10pm. An Ambulance Victoria spokeswoman said a man was taken to Dandenong Hospital with minor injuries to his upper body. Authorities weren't able to provide any information to the Gazette about how the man
sustained the injuries. The circumstances surrounding the incident haven't been revealed, however a Victoria Police spokesman confirmed that no firearm was involved. No arrests were made. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Favourites on their menu By Danielle Kutchel Let’s be honest: despite the extra time we all seem to have on our hands, there are days when you just don’t want to cook. Or maybe you’ve been stuck in isolation for weeks and you’re craving your old pub favourites. Satiate those cravings with Cardinia Park Hotel’s new takeaway menu! The comprehensive new takeaway menu includes pub classics like veal or chicken parmigiana, chicken kiev and fresh steaks and fish, as well as pasta in all its shapes and sauces. Seniors’ and kids’ menus are also still available so no one in the family goes hungry. The menu has been designed with flexibility in mind, according to the hotel’s manager, Adele Goldsmith. “It includes all our quality products and menu staples, but we’ll adapt to what people want on the menu. “As long as we have the stock, we can do what they want,” she says. That adaptability has come in handy in the Covid-19 shock. Cardinia Park Hotel has long been more than just a watering hole for regulars: it’s a destination for locals and travellers alike. So when social distancing regulations were brought in, they initially “changed the dynamics” of the pub atmosphere, Adele says, and patron numbers began to decline. But when the actual shutdown came, everything changed.
The pub had to rapidly scale up its takeaway options even as staff found themselves under huge stress from the situation. “Now that we’re doing takeaway, we’re really pleased to be back and providing service to the community,” Adele says of her staff. Business is beginning to build as word spreads about the hotel’s new format. Delivery is also available, within a five-kilometre radius for a small fee. Adele says patrons have been pretty accepting of the situation and are happily supporting local businesses through takeaway. “I think local businesses are the heart of the community - not just us, but every local business,” she explains. “When you’re isolated, you don’t get to see the people you normally would see, so having
Cardinia Park Hotel is still open for takeaway. 165470 all the local businesses doing takeaway helps to give people some normality.” That said, she and the team at Cardinia Park Hotel can’t wait to open their doors again and continue doing what they do best - making people happy and providing a place for the community to come together and share good times.
“We hope all our customers are staying safe and once we all come out of this hopefully things will get back to normal!” Adele says. Cardinia Park Hotel is open for takeaway Wednesday to Friday, 5pm-8.30pm, and Saturday and Sunday 12pm to 8.30pm.To find out more or view the takeaway menu, visit www. cardiniaparkhotel.com.au.
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STAR NEWS 13
Where to get a copy of your Star News!
NEWS
A map of the new Cardinia Shire Council ward boundaries. The council has been asked for their comments and suggestions for ward names by 25 May in order for the maps to be finalised and gazetted for the elections.
VEC says one ward for each councillor By Jessica Anstice The Cardinia Shire Council will move to singlemember wards for the 2020 election. At present, there are nine councillors representing three wards across the Cardinia shire, including Central Ward which has four councillors, Port Ward with two and Ranges Ward with three. Under the new transition, there will be a total of nine wards across the shire to ensure each councillor represents roughly the same number of voters. The new ward boundaries are informed by modelling by the Victorian
Electoral Commission. However, a final report which was released in April concluded that the current multicouncillor ward structure would remain with some slight boundary alignments until 2024. Cardinia Shire Council Cr Brett Owen said the State Government’s decision to change to nine single-councillor wards for the 2020 election came as a big surprise. “This decision was despite an extensive community consultation of the Victorian Electoral Commission to review the structure in recent months,” he said. “I appreciated that it was the intention of
the then draft Local Government Act to transition into single councillor wards but the general thought was that any changes would come into place at the 2024 election.”The council has been asked by the government to suggest possible ward names. Cr Owen has asked council officers that they liaise with historical groups in the shire to assist council in suggesting possible ward names for the State Government to consider. Seven other councils in the outskirts of Melbourne will also be affected as part of the changed introduced in the Local Government Act 2020.
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‘Inadequate’: No sign of media grants
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Thursday, 14 May, 2020
A federal government grants program aimed at supporting regional and community media outlets during the COVID-19 pandemic has been labelled as “inadequate” by Labor. Last month, the federal government announced a $50 million Public Interest News Gathering (PING) grants program in response to the economic impact of the coronavirus crisis on newsrooms across the country. But Labor’s communications spokeswoman, Michelle Rowland said the grants program – and its administration – proved the government was out of touch with the needs of the media industry.
“The PING is late, it is inadequate, it is confused and it undermines press freedom and the public’s right to know by putting the minister at the centre of grants approvals for the fourth estate,” Ms Rowland said. “The minister should have no role in determining winners and losers when it comes to the survival of media outlets whose job it is to hold the government to account.” Ms Rowland said the PING grants program was established almost a year after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recommended the government replace its Regional and Small Publishers In-
novation Fund with a targeted grants program. “The opening of the PING also comes over five weeks after Labor wrote to the deputy prime minister requesting COVID-19 relief funding for regional and community media. It will again be weeks before successful applicants are announced and funding flows," she said. “The media is essential, not a service that should go into hibernation during COVID-19. Unfortunately, we have already seen suspensions and closures of local news gathering as a result of indecision, incompetence and delay by the Morrison government.” pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Record budget delivered By Brendan Rees In a time of "challenging circumstances" Casey residents face about a $40 average rise in their rates and waste charges under Casey Council's draft 2020-'21 budget, totalling a record $536.7m. However, council sets to claw back revenue lost during the coronavirus downturn as funds from facilities such as those at Bunjil Place, aquatic and recreation centres, family services, and parking fines, dwindle. If the disruption period for Covid-19 continued until the end of September, one quarter of the council's 2020-21 financial year will be "adversely affected", according to council documents. "This year we have prepared our budget under new challenging circumstances - with the full extent of Covid-19 not yet known," Casey Council CEO Glenn Patterson said at the Tuesday 5 May council meeting where the draft budget was released for community consultation. "Our focus remains on achieving a financially responsible budget that ensures that we are delivering and investing in much needed infrastructure for our community while at the same time balancing the needs of our residents, many of whom are experiencing hardship because of the pandemic," he said. Council documents also reveal its rates revenue will be affected due to households experiencing hardship - and will "likely need to consider the appropriateness of debt recovery actions in those circumstances". Currently, hardship options are available for ratepayers who can access deferments and waivers of up to $500 on their rate payments with interest on all current overdue accounts having been suspended until 30 June. Council has also taken up the position not to charge interest penalties on outstanding rates until June - a loss of about $400,000. Meanwhile, council documents revealed $60m of rates from 2019-20 have yet to be collected this financial year. Despite the challenges due to Covid-19, council maintains its "operating within 201920 budget parameters" with this year's draft budget totalling $536.7m, which includes an operational budget of $405.1m - which will be delivered within the State Government's compulsory two per cent rate cap. Council proposes it will generate $206.6m through rates in its budget while a further $42.3m is expected from the waste service charge, together with $3.4m of expected supplementary rates and charges expected to occur in the 2020-'21 financial year. The $131.6m capital works program - down from $27.1m in 2019-'20 - includes continued construction of a new district level soccer and cricket facility at Botanic Ridge eastern playing fields, Botanic Ridge, and construction of new indoor netball facilities at Olive Road Reserve, Eumemmerring. Other proposed works is construction beginning on the new $7.8m family and community centre at Elliston Estate, Clyde Village,
Casey Council CEO Glenn Patterson. 206237 and building renewal and upgrade works at Strong Drive Children's Centre, Hampton Park ($1.33m). Sporting families in Cranbourne North are among the big winners as council proposes to start works on a $9.4m district level soccer and cricket multipurpose community facilities at Tulliallan Estate. It comes after council and residents were in a five-year tussle with the developer - who wanted to subdivide the land into housing. However, in July last year, council announced
Picture: GARY SISSONS it had purchased the land for sporting facilities. In major road projects, $3.25m is planned for the construction of Missens Road to Thompsons Road in Cranbourne West while a $442,070 will deliver the sealing of a road shoulder along sections of Manks Road in Clyde. The median residential rates and waste charges bill is expected to rise from $1920 to $1960. The hike includes a proposed $12 rise in the waste charge - up three per cent - which
is "largely due to the impacts of the global recycling crisis and market disruption," Mr Patterson said. The draft budget as well as council's action draft council action plan - which sets out the key initiatives for the next 12 months to improve services - will be on public exhibition until Wednesday 3 June or visit: https://conversations.casey.vic.gov.au/budget2020-21 All submissions will be heard at a council meeting on 9 June, prior to the adoption of the budget and Council action plan on 23 June.
Safely sharing the bounty with bats
A bat struggles with fruit tree netting. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
With so many homeowners planting mini-orchards in their backyards, it's understandable that avid gardeners want to protect their crops. But that protection can come at a cost to wildlife, according to Lawrence Pope, president of Friends of Bats and Bushcare Inc. “When young flying foxes leave mum’s protection for the first time, they face many dangers as they fly into the darkness in search of food,” he explains. Avoiding predators is just the beginning of a life of urban risk. There are also barbed wire fences that are invisible in the dark and another, innocent-looking, web-of-death – backyard fruit tree netting. Bats caught in the netting can sustain lifethreatening injuries. Left in the net, they can die in horrible pain. When mother bats get entangled their pups are often left to starve back at the colony. Mr Pope says flying is an energy-expensive activity for bats, who must eat a lot each night to stay alive.
A young bat that was found caught in fruit tree netting. Nectar, pollen and fruit form the bulk of that diet. Australian hardwood gum trees flower at night to attract them because, as long distance pollinators, they prevent the trees inbreeding. But what happens if you’re a bat in Berwick or Springvale and you can’t find any
native flowering trees? The backyard fruit tree might just be your saviour or, if it’s netted, your doom. Backyard fruit tree nets kill more young flying foxes and mother bats than just about anything else in urban Australia, Mr Pope says. Often bats are found dead in tree-nets laden with unwanted fruit adding, for bat rescuers, anger to sadness. This year bat rescuer and Order of Australia recipient Bev Brown finished her 500th bat netting rescue and said she never gets used to seeing young animals suffer.“It’s very stressful, they’re wounded and in pain. Their eyes plead with you to help and we have to take many and have them euthanized. It is heart breaking." Friends of Bats and Bushcare Inc. recommends people avoid using nets they can put fingers through, and instead cover their lower branches of fruit with zipped washing bags. The high fruit can then be left for wildlife to enjoy and thrive on, ensuring humans and animals can both share in the backyard bounty. Thursday, 14 May, 2020
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STAR NEWS 15
NEWS
When home is no longer home Star News reporter Esther Lauaki had to return to New Zealand for a family emergency. She is now in strict quarantine. This is her story. Auckland at dusk.
Picture: Chris-McLennan/newzealand.com
By Esther Lauaki Home doesn’t feel like home anywhere anymore. I’ve travelled to New Zealand so many times in the past eight years that I could walk the length of Auckland Airport with my eyes closed. But COVID-19 has turned our world upside down and governments implore everyone to “embrace a new normal”. Stay home, save lives. It’s a simple message – but what happens when your dad is in the final stages of Leukaemia and you live overseas? My family in New Zealand was told by doctors on New Year’s day that dad had months to live.
“
Warm smiles are hidden behind surgical mask”
Any plans to make the Trans-Tasman trip home as often as possible were shut down in March when COVID-19 sent the nation into lockdown and, for the most part, closed Australia’s borders to the world. Travel is reserved for healthcare aid workers, diplomats, “urgent personal business” and compassionate reasons. Living, working and building a future in Australia, like my parents did when they migrated from Samoa to New Zealand, is no easy feat. Doing that while my dad fights a rare and brutal blood cancer is a burden too heavy for me. Leaving Australia last week in the thick of a pandemic required a few calls to the Health and Human Services Department, the New Zealand consulate and the airline as well as a letter from the hospital stating my dad’s critical condition. Melbourne airport is an empty, dark and cold place now. About 10 border force officers crowd the check-in desk ensuring everyone has filled out a form agreeing to self-isolate in a government managed hotel for 14 days in New Zealand. Customs officers are relaxed, discussing 16 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 14 May, 2020
The room at a government-managed hotel where Esther Lauaki is quarantined for 14 days. 208343
Esther Lauaki and her dad Iakopo. 208343
Melbourne Airport is a different place these days. 208343 their favourite pork recipes while processing just 40 passengers for the day. Duty Free and the retail stores are all closed and only the sound of suitcase wheels on linoleum and murmurs in the distance echo through the staff bypass corridor you have to walk through to get to your gate. The flight was a speedy three and a half hours with no air traffic and good flying conditions into Auckland where I was born and raised. An idyllic Kiwi childhood of breakfasts at
the beach, jandals, walking to the corner dairy with a dozen cousins, Jelly-Tips and kina (sea urchin) fishing. But in this post COVID world, warm smiles are hidden behind surgical masks, there are no handshakes or hugs – just a health check and a sterile, “Welcome home Ma’am”. Green crosses taped on the floor are two metres apart and the assumption is that everyone is infected. We are ushered onto a tour bus bound for a hotel that nobody will tell us the name of.
The New Zealand Army, Police, Navy, border patrol and health department are on site at the hotel to help enforce strict isolation, social distance and hygiene measures. Home for the next two weeks is a compact hotel room with ensuite and a queen-sized bed. Three meals a day are delivered to your door with one hour of supervised exercise allowed each day. Time is what I have on my hands right now before I can see my dad and, more than anything, that’s all I want. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE
SLOWER PACE SUITS THE RAY WHITE TEAM By Narelle Coulter DESPITE the impact of Covid-19, Ray White Berwick director Debbie Brettoner said she is enjoying working in the real estate industry more than ever. Ms Brettoner said she relished the industry's slower pace after the government banned mass gatherings at open for inspections and auctions. She said personal inspections gave her and the other Ray White agents much more time to get to know buyers and vendors. "I am enjoying being in real estate, having more time to talk to people and offering a one on one service, which lets me assess clients' needs better and know if a house is the one for them," she said. "I've seen a lot of ups and downs in the market, but I've never had to mask up and sanitise my hands. It makes for a good talking point though," she laughed. Nor has the economic crisis slowed the Berwick agency's sales figures. "We certainly had a very good figures in what I call the Covid month of April," Ms Brettoner said. Ms Brettoner said there was still a steady flow of buyers in the Berwick market, with good competition. The Berwick office placed
8th in the Ray White group in Victoria and Tasmania for April sales. "People are out and about and there are a lot of genuine, serious buyers in the market." She encouraged anyone thinking of buying or selling to take advantage of current market conditions. "There is no better time than now. Interest rates are as low as I have seen them in my lifetime and if you are buying and selling in the same market you won't be disadvantaged." She predicts the market will kick back to normal in late May or early June, with some restrictions already lifted. For the moment demand is being driven by first home buyers with pre-approval and next stage up graders also with borrowing approval. "Investors are back too because of the low interest rates." Ms Brettoner said she did not agree with some pundits who have predicted a 10 to 20 per cent slide in Melbourne property prices because of Covid-19. "I think in the inner city you will see a lot more adjustment in prices. In Berwick, if we do see a reduction, it won't last long. It's all about supply and demand." ●
Ray White Berwick director, Debbie Brettoner.
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STAR REAL ESTATE
17
Pag
Pakenham
1-18 Dame Pattie Avenue
Expression Of Interest Closing 22nd May
UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY They don’t come along like this everyday or even every decade. A 5213m2 site that has 18 dwellings, close to shops, transport & medical. This 1950’s complex was an elderly independent living village & has all the hallmarks & is ready to revitalised by its new owners. The Vendors are looking to dispose of the multi dwelling site which sits on one title. Unique in every way but an opportunity for those who have got vision or imagination. Ideal as an income producing investment once the dwellings are modernised. Expression Of Interest Closing 22nd May 2020 Derrick Brown - 0418 317 096
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WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO - QUIET LOCATION Luxury and style best describe this craftsman built 3 bedroom unit. Positioned within walking distance to the shopping precinct, this unit is ideal for the owner occupier or investor. Comprising of 3 large bedrooms, master with FES & WIR, built in robes to remaining bedrooms. The heart of the home is the stylish kitchen & meals area which provides access via double cedar doors to the appealing outdoor setting. A very spacious lounge will provide maximum comfort to it’s new owners. Other features include 2700mm ceilings, gas ducted heating, three split system air conditioners & double garage all on a 326m2 allotment. It’s described as a unit, but it’s as big as a house. Call for a private inspection.
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It’s got the lot this prime lifestyle parcel within minutes of schools, shopping & transport while providing you with the benefits of small acreage (6 Acres). Situated on a bitumen road with mains water is this 45 square family home that enjoys large living spaces, stone benches, 4 great sized bedrooms with WIR & FES to main. There’s lots more – large alfresco area, IG Pool solar heated & self cleaning, 60 X 40 high clearance shed, 30 X 20 shed, double garage, solar system, tank water, house/animal shelter & ideal hardstand area. Opportunity, location and privacy all in one package – make time to inspect.
Derrick Brown 0418 317 096
Page 18 STAR REAL ESTATE
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Thursday, 14 May, 2020
Steve Hobson 0418 897 411
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If you have been considering selling, now may be the right time. We have registered buyers waiting.
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STAR NEWS 21
SPORT
Within reach of the Crown Black Opium has one paw on that elusive Group 1 title after a scintillating victory in her Sapphire Crown heat at Sandown Park last Thursday night. The three-time Group 1 runner-up took full advantage of the vacant box either side of her to lead all the way to defeat Origami Angel by nine-and-a-half lengths. “She did everything right,” said handler, the Pearcedale-based Seona Thompson. “She did everything right last week, but she’s even exceeded that and gone a bit better.” Her winning time of 29.204 was one 1000th of a second faster than the time she ran when she was the fastest qualifier for the 2018 TAB Melbourne Cup. Her first loss came in that race, when she finished runner-up after being undefeated in her first eight starts. “When she was coming back from her spell she was trialling really well and I said to Jason (Seona’s husband) I think she might have come back better,” Thompson said. “She’s different now, she’s a different dog to what she was then, different in herself. She’s very mature and knows what racing is all about now.” Black Opium has now won over $450,000 in prize money - an Australian record for a greyhound without a feature race win. Despite drawing Box 4 for the final, she has been installed the $1.80 favourite to claim the $50,000 first prize with tab.com.au. The first heat of the night went to Talulah Bale who powered past Nangar Diva to score by three lengths in 29.52. Trained by Heather Collins who won the race with Lamia Bale in 2015, Talulah Bale is the daughter of Xylia Allen, which also won the race in 2013. Madilia Maggie won the second heat in 29.41 for John Connor, defeating Chart Topper. That will give Robin Moore his first runner in a Group 1 final. With Black Opium winning the third heat, it was over to Spring Fair to claim the night’s final run off for Anthony Azzopardi, leading all of the way to defeat Aston Silk by four-and-ahalf lengths in 29.63 - giving Melbourne Cupwinning trainers Azzopardi and Thompson two runners each in the final. The $71,000, Group 1 Sapphire Crown will be run tonight (Thursday, 14 May). It’s the first of three Group 1 races to be run over three consecutive weeks at Sandown Park, and the favourites for the two other series also turned in impressive performances. Harrison-Dawson favourite Tiggerlong Tonk capitalised on drawing Box 1 for just the third time in his 36-start career as the Easter Gift winner was untroubled in recording a three-and-a-half length victory in 29.26, while RSN Sandown Cup favourite Mister Harlewood remains undefeated in four starts over the stayer’s journey, winning by one-and-a-
The Seona Thompson-trained Black Opium is well poised to claim a breakthrough Group 1 title. quarter lengths in 41.66. Those with an appetite for thrilling live sport need look no further than Sandown Park, with a bumper greyhound racing schedule over the coming weeks. While physical distancing measures are in place at the track, preventing all non-essential personnel - such as crowds - from attending, there will be three Group 1 finals over consecutive weeks. Along with the addition of a number of key support races, that means the best greyhounds in Australia will effectively call Sandown Park home right through until at least the end of June. “The Sapphire Crown - for female greyhounds only - on 14 May; the Harrison-Dawson - for male greyhounds only - on 21 May; and the RSN Sandown Cup - for the stayers - on 28 May are three of the sport’s premier races, so to be able to ensure they can be conducted is a fantastic result for owners, trainers and fans of the sport,” Sandown Greyhound Racing Club’s racing and media manager Mick Floyd told the Star News. “The quality of greyhound racing at the moment is outstanding, so I’m really looking forward to an exciting month of racing. “The current situation has been tough for everyone, and every business or activity that
The Sapphire Crown trophy will be up for grabs tonight. Pictures: COURTESY OF SANDOWN GREYHOUNDS has been able to continue is important. “That greyhound racing has been able to continue is testament to both GRV (Greyhound Racing Victoria) for implementing strict race-day protocols and procedures, and to the clubs and participants for adapting to
the changes that have been made.” Crucially, despite the Covid-19 pandemic, Sandown Greyhounds has been able to maintain its weekly schedule and prize-money structure - providing some much needed certainty for those involved with the sport.
Moody returns as a winner as Shepard leads them home By Brad Bishop and Adam McGrath (from Racing.com) Peter Moody returned to training the way he left it - with a winner - thanks to a dominant display by Shepard at Ballarat on Sunday. The man best known as the trainer of former champion sprinter Black Caviar celebrated victory with his first runner in more than four years when the imported gelding cruised to victory in the Hertz Ballarat BM78 Handicap (2000m). Shepard was ridden to victory by Luke Nolen, who rode Black Caviar to 22 of her 25 victories and has ridden more winners for Moody than any other rider, which added to the satisfaction of the win. “It was nice to have Luke there today and do the job for us,” Moody said. “He’s been a big part of my career and if he keeps riding them like that he’ll be a bigger part of it going forward.” Nolen, who guided Shepard, a easing $2.30 favourite to a 2.75-length win over Arty Lucas, who was heavily backed from $9 in early markets to start the $2.50 second elect. “It’s great to be back riding for Peter and 22 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 14 May, 2020
combining early for a win,” Nolen said. Shepard was Moody’s first runner since March 24, 2016, the night that Flamberge won the William Reid Stakes at The Valley. Moody’s break from training was enforced by stewards, suspended for six months on cobalt-related charges, but took extra time away while maintaining a hand in the industry via bloodstock and work in the media. Based at Caulfield when he won his four Melbourne Trainers’ Premierships, his return has been with a much smaller team at Pakenham. Moody has only had Shepard, a son of Sea The Moon whom he owns outright, for around a week and while he thanked former trainer David Brideoake he did so with a good-humoured jibe. “Thanks to my great mate David Brideoake and Alex Woodhams and his team down there (at Mornington), they’ve done a tremendous job, they’ve looked after this horse very well through his whole career. “Thanks to them, but I reckon I’ve improved him in seven days, just to let David know.” This story first appeared on Racing.com and has been republished with permission.
Peter Moody returned a winner on Sunday.
Picture: COURTESY OF RACING PHOTOS pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Covid threat to grassroots By sports editor Russell Bennett The Victorian basketball community is fighting desperately to save the grassroots game, in the wake of the greatest threat to sport in Australian history - Covid-19. Following the postponement of basketball across the state from 13 March due to the coronavirus pandemic, the game has taken a huge hit - and not just in the professional leagues and international competitions that have been left devastated. In Victoria alone, about 420,000 basketball participants stopped playing in the space of a day around six weeks ago. With 240,000 registered members this year, on top of another 180,000 casual participants throughout the state, basketball is the largest community sport in Victoria and the rate it’s increasing is actually faster than population growth. The National Cabinet outlined its 15 principles for the staged return of sport and recreation activities recently and Basketball Victoria is working in tandem with the Victorian State Government to seek clarity on timelines and solutions for potential barriers to the resumption of play. Basketball Victoria has prepared ‘Return to Sport’ guidelines in conjunction with local member associations and advice from Basketball Australia and its chief medical officer. The guidelines refer to various levels of risk management to enable players to get back on the court, including: the flow of traffic in and out of venues, time restrictions, compulsory cleaning, sanitisation and restrictions on players, officials and parents per court. Basketball Victoria is confident that, given stadiums are large volume spaces where the number of people can be strictly managed, the guidelines the sport has developed can allow for basketball to resume in stadiums at
Local fans can't wait for Big V basketball to return to Pakenham's Cardinia Life stadium. 197278 the same time as outdoor sporting activities resume. Basketball organisations have a large footprint across the state, including the leasing
QUIZ NUMBER 1712 1. WHO was the only Australian to score at the 2018 World Cup soccer finals? 2. IN which track and field event is the world record broken most often? 3. WHICH city hosted the 1984 Summer Olympics? 4. WHO was The Marrickville Mauler? 5. WHICH Aussie cricket ground hosted its first Test match in 1989? 6. WHICH Australian horse trainer had over 7000 winners to his name? 7. WHICH prominent sportsman was named Australian of the Year in 1989? 8. WHO was the last Australian to win the Wimbledon ladies singles final? 9. WHICH city hosted the 1986 Commonwealth Games? 10. WHICH Australian golfer achieved fame as a trick shot artist in the 1920s? 11. WHAT was sprint star Marjorie Jackson's nickname? 12. WHO was the first Australian disqualified from the Olympics for allegedly taking drugs? 13. WHAT is the minimum number of points required to win a tennis game? 14. WHO was the last horse to win the Caulfield - Melbourne Cup double?
and hiring of court-space from every Victorian council municipality - with 465 indoor facilities and over 1000 courts being used regularly throughout the year. As an indoor sport, Basketball has the potential to have longer-term exposure to the economic side-effects of Covid-19, and will be impacted more severely by the specific classification of indoor sporting venues - including community and recreation centres - and restrictions by the State and Federal Governments than any other major sporting code. Australian Opals’ Captain, and star of the WNBL’s Southside Flyers, Jenna O’Hea said it’s important for teams to get back on the court for social connections and lifting spirits to improve wellbeing. “I think routine, and having places to be and keeping busy, is good for our mental health, so getting back on the court and into regular trainings and commitments is important whenever it is safe to do so.” O’Hea’s motivation has been a bit of a roller coaster during this social distancing period of Covid-19. Not knowing when we she will be back training, let alone playing, it has been hard to keep training at a high intensity like she normally would during a season. O’Hea has been staying active by doing things she enjoys, such as bike riding, and running with her dog, as well as ball handling skills and drills to stay sharp and active. She encourages the community to do the same. “I’m a mental health advocate (O’Hea won the 2019 AIS Athlete Community Engagement Award as a Lifeline Community Custodian) and situations like this can have serious implications on our mental health,” she explained. “I know that I love basketball and can’t wait
Picture: ROB CAREW until I can get back with my teammates, competing and improving our skills together again. “I would encourage all hoopers to do things you enjoy - keep a ball in your hands during this time and be ready to go whenever we do get the all clear.” Gippsland native, Australian Under-19 representative, and a recent recipient of the Basketball Victoria - Junior Female Athlete of the Year Award, Jaz Shelley has just finished a shortened, yet, successful first year at the University of Oregon playing alongside WNBA number one pick Sabrina Ionescu. “When the Covid-19 outbreak forced the suspension of basketball I was shattered,” Shelley reflected. “I was one week away from competing in the NCAA tournament. Our team had an extremely great chance at taking a national championship. This was a devastating shock to me, my family and my teammates.” Despite the challenging circumstances, Shelley expressed her longing to get back on the court as the driving force to stay as active and engaged as possible. She has been doing her best to keep her skills up at home during Covid-19, leading her family with trick shots in the front yard as part of the Basketball Victoria ‘Hoops At Home’ initiative. She added that it’s been hard, not only for herself but her brothers too, who are keen to get back to domestic basketball. “I have now started to become optimistic about this situation and have been treating this as a long preseason,” she said. “My brothers and I are very active people so coping with this lockdown has been difficult, but we are still finding ways to entertain ourselves in some way.”
15. WHICH country won the 1982 World Cup soccer final? 16. WHICH Aussie became only the 26th player in history to take a wicket with the first ball of a Test match in 2016?
18. WHICH annual Australian event is the world's oldest professional running race? 19. WHO was Australia's first surfing world champion? 20. HOW long is a cricket pitch?
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17. WHICH Australian sculler went 20 years without tasting defeat?
ANSWERS:1. Mile Jedinak 2. The pole vault 3. Los Angeles 4. Jeff Fenech 5. Hobart's Bellerive Oval 6. Tommy Smith 7. Allan Border 8. Evonne Cawley in 1980 9. Edinburgh 10. Joe Kirkwood 11. 'The Lithgow Flash' 12. Alex Watson 13. Four 14. Ethereal 15. Italy 16. Mitchell Starc 17. Bobby Pearce 18. The Stawell Gift 19. 'Midget' Farrelly 20. 22 yards
Grassroots basketball is currently facing its biggest ever threat - Covid-19. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 14 May, 2020
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STAR NEWS 23
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