Pakenham Officer Star News - 06th August 2020

PAKENHAM OFFICER

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Thursday, 6 August, 2020

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Hefty fine for breaches of restrictions

Resident outrage over dumping in creek

Compassion for terminal hospital ‘prisoner’

Pakenham backs a long term winner

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SPORT

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Virus spreading

By Jessica Anstice

Skate parks are off limits around the Cardinia Shire and in an effort to make sure no-one breaks the restriction, mulch has been put in them to prevent their use.

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a test as a precaution.

This week, DHHS confirmed that five cases of Covid-19 were linked to the Menarock McGregor Gardens aged care facility in Pakenham.

As of Tuesday 4 August, one staff member, one resident and three close contacts had test-

ed positive to coronavirus, DHHS said.

The total number of cases linked to organisation based outbreaks includes close contacts as well as employees, residents, staff and students of the particular locations.

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A retail worker, supermarket employee, student and local aged care residents were among the 52 active coronavirus cases recorded in the Cardinia Shire, as of Tuesday 5 August.

Over the past week, a staff member at the Reject Shop in Officer tested positive to the virus, as did a Pakenham Coles employee, local secondary school students and a resident and worker from a Pakenham aged care facility.

The Reject Shop employee from Officer’s Arena Shopping Centre who returned a positive test, forced the store to temporarily close for a deep clean on Tuesday 5 August.

According to a statement from Arena Shopping Centre, the staff member last worked on Saturday 26 July, and they are not believed to have transmitted the virus to anyone else at the shopping centre.

“Please be assured that the wellbeing of our community continues to be our top priority,“ the statement read.

“We are working closely with the Reject Shop, other retailers in the centre and the Department of Health taking all necessary steps to ensure ongoing safety in the centre.”

A Coles employee from Heritage Springs recently tested positive, however in a statement, Coles said the employee hadn’t been in the store since Saturday 25 July.

Contact tracing was carried out, but the Gazette understands that no other team members were required to self isolate.

The supermarket giant said that the risk of transmission to customers or colleagues was “very low”.

Two local secondary schools were also forced to shut for deep cleans following positive cases this week.

Pakenham Secondary College and St Francis Xavier College in Beaconsfield closed on Monday 3 August.

St Francis Xavier College was informed on Saturday 1 August that a senior school student had returned a positive Covid-19 test.

The Beaconsfield college asked all students and staff who had been in close contact with the confirmed case to self-isolate and undergo

cluding cleaning and tracing of close contacts,” a DHHS spokesperson said on Saturday 1 August.

“All staff and residents will be tested.”

As of 4 August, there was a total of 52 active cases in Cardinia Shire, 310 in Casey and 129 in Yarra Ranges.

GET TESTED IF YOU’VE GOT THESE SYMPTOMS If you have any of these symptoms get tested and stay home.

Fever

Runny nose

Chills or sweats

Sore throat

Shortness of breath

Cough

Loss of sense of smell or taste

Getting tested means you keep yourself, your friends, family, workplace and your community safe.

It’s not over yet.

Find out where to get tested visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Hefty fines for iso breach

By Mitchell Clarke People breaching isolation orders will be slapped with a $5000 fine, after more than 800 people - supposed to be self-isolating - were not at home during random door knocks.

From Tuesday 4 August, people found to be breaching the Chief Health Officer directives - by failing to isolate after returning a positive Covid test or being identified as a close contact - will be hit with a $4957 fine.

The hefty fine is the highest on the spot infringement that can be issued to a person by Victoria Police, but has been deemed necessary after 3000 random door knocks found 800 people out and about.

Under new Stage 4 restrictions, people with coronavirus and those who are deemed close contacts, will no longer be able to leave their homes for exercise.

“You can get fresh air at your front door, or in the front yard or back,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

“I apologise to those doing the right thing but we have absolutely no choice. It’s about making sure people are where they’re supposed to be.”

A limited number of reasons to leave the home will remain - including seeking medical care, in an emergency, or if required by law.

More than 500 Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and 300 authorised officers will join door knocking teams to randomly check on households across the state.

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton said every police officer had a responsibility to enforce coronavirus related directions.

“The message for the community is clear: the window of discretion is virtually closed. We want you to stay at home and comply with the

Police will be out in force to ensure the public are complying with the Chief Health Officer’s directives. 211040 Chief Health Officer directions,” he said.

“There will be a significant police presence across the state either patrolling on the street, at permanent check points or in mobile vehicles to enforce the directions throughout the day and into the night.

“If you don’t abide by these guidelines, we will issue fines, arrest and detain you.”

More than 6000 spot checks at homes, businesses and non-essential services have been undertaken in the past 24 hours to Tuesday 4 August. More than 505,000 vehicles have been

checked at vehicle checkpoints since 9 July.

To report non-urgent crime and events, as well as breaches of the Chief Health Officer’s directives, call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or submit an online report at police. vic.gov.au/palolr.

Supermarkets are essential, but panic buying is not

By Mitchell Clarke Supermarket shelves have again started to be stripped across the Cardinia Shire, as tougher restrictions are implemented.

Both Coles and Woolworths have been forced to reinstate purchase limits after crowds began to congregate and clear products following Sunday’s Stage 4 announcement.

Woolworths has reinstated a purchase limit of two items per customer across at least 50 product categories in Victoria, both in-store and online, following a huge increase in demand.

Woolworths managing director Claire Peters said the limits would help ensure more customers have fair access to fresh food and essentials.

“We understand this is an anxious time for our Victorian customers, but we encourage everyone to continue shopping as they usually would and only buy what they need,”

Shelves were stripped on Sunday night following the Premier’s announcement.

Picture: SUPPLIED Ms Peters said.

“Stock will continue to flow from our distribution centres and as an essential service, Woolworths supermarkets remain open to support customers’ food and grocery needs.

“We ask that our customers continue to adhere to our social distancing and hygiene measures while in store and continue to treat our team and each other with respect while shopping.”

Meanwhile, Coles have put a temporary two pack limit on mince meat, chicken breasts and thighs, in addition to the existing two pack per customer limit on hand sanitiser and one pack per customer limit on face masks.

No other purchase limits currently apply, with the exception of the standard national four unit limit on infant formula.

“We ask that you only buy what you need

to ensure everyone in our community can purchase the products they need,” a Coles spokesperson said.

“Our team members are working as hard as possible to keep shelves stocked and based on current buying behaviour, we will review these limits daily.”

Coles has announced all metropolitan stores will close at 7.45pm, with the last customer allowed to enter at 7.30pm, in line with the 8pm curfew.

This will apply to all Coles supermarkets, Liquorland, Vintage Cellars, First Choice and First Choice Liquor Market stores.

Supermarkets have been deemed an essential service throughout the entire Covid pandemic and will continue to remain open.

“Of course, there’ll be some commonsense exceptions. If your closest supermarket is further than five kilometres, you can still shop there,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

Only one person per household is allowed to travel for shopping per day.

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‘Deliberate’ attempt to damage Sikh temple site

By Mitchell Clarke The Officer Sikh temple believes a “deliberate” attempt to damage their freshly laid nature strip was racially motivated.

The Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar (Officer Sikh temple) has been forced to implement 15 security cameras across their 20 acre block following a string of attempted break ins.

But the latest incident has left temple volunteers “appalled and shocked” after a hoon driver is believed to have deliberately torn up the lush green nature strip.

Dedicated volunteers had spent about 100 hours to reinvigorate the grass area as part of the temple’s commitment to environmental conservation.

“This looks like a very deliberate attempt to damage the area. They drove past this nature strip purposefully and damaged it massively,” Officer Sikh temple spokesperson Harpreet Kandra said.

“I doubt someone would lose control and go that way off the road. We definitely think it’s targeted and we suspect racism as a possible cause.

“I don’t see any reason for someone to do this. They can’t earn anything out of it unless they’re venting out their anger. If people have any grudges against us, come and talk to us.”

It’s not the first time the temple site has been targeted - prior to it’s build, forbidden items such as meat, liquor bottles and cigarette butts were strewn across the site.

Mr Kandra said the latest “disrespectful act” occurred sometime on Saturday night, 1 August, but said four resident volunteers didn’t hear a thing.

He said the team of volunteers were hurt and shocked to see their hard work ruined, especially during a time of crisis.

It’s believed the incident occurred sometime Saturday night. 212439

Dedicated volunteers had spent about 100 hours to reinvigorate the grass area. 212439

The temple suspect they were racially targeted. 212439 “We’re just very disappointed in these difficult times that someone is obviously too selfish and disrespectful,” Mr Kandra added.

“We are here to contribute to our community and in this pandemic period, we should be working to help each other, rather than against each other.”

The Officer Sikh temple recently donated

more than 1500 kilograms of groceries to those who had been impacted by the pandemic.

The incident was reported to Pakenham police station and Cardinia Shire Council, who are now looking into whether barriers could be implemented along the nature strip to avoid any future incidents.

The Sikh temple in Officer. 212439

Beware: phone scammers

By Jessica Anstice Scam callers impersonating government officials have shaken a number of Pakenham residents over the past few weeks.

Scammers, claiming to be from government departments including the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Home Affairs, have been making unusual and concerning phone calls to mobile phones across the shire.

Pakenham resident Kelly Whittenbury received an incoming call from what appeared to be a legitimate Australian phone number on Friday July 31 and answered it, thinking it was a potential employer.

“An automated message started playing saying ‘your name is being used to conduct illegal activity and there is a warrant out for your arrest’,” she recalled.

“I had a moment of panic until I realised

that if there was a warrant out for my arrest, then police would be at my door - not having DHHS calling to inform me.

“I thought I better let people know about it given that even I had that moment of panic, even though I realised quickly - I thought there would be people that wouldn’t realise.”

Community member Narendra Unnikrishnan experienced a similar phone call about 6pm at the beginning of last week.

When he picked up the phone, Mr Unnikrishnan said he heard a voice recording that stated the incoming call was from the Department of Home Affairs.

“They had a voice recording as soon as you answer saying ‘call from Department of Home Affairs’ and ‘there is a criminal offence charged against you’,” he said.

“Then this person came on the line and I asked the guy ‘how do you expect someone to believe you when we know the government

NO ONE DESERVES TO LIVE IN FEAR OF VIOLENCE OR ABUSE FROM THOSE CLOSEST TO THEM. THERE’S NO EXCUSE FOR ABUSE

departments close at 5pm and you are calling me at 6pm?’ There was a lot of background noise as well.

“Unfortunately they’ll get some elderly and people who are tech challenged.”

Mr Unnikrishnan said he feels that the government “needs to do something about it”.

“They are using Australian phone numbers,” he added.

“The call went very abusive when I didn’t comply with what the person wanted to do.

Horrible.”

Pakenham resident Sonia Gallagher said she received a slightly different scam call, however she didn’t answer and the scammer left a very threatening message on her phone.

As the message was in a foreign language, Ms Gallagher decided to run it through a translator.

According to her, the message said “You must gather $25,000 as quickly and quietly

as possible. Your family is in danger if you do not listen. Call once you have it together, to arrange collection, and the guaranteed safety of all family members. Those here and in the motherland.”

“If I happened to answer that call - I’d be terrified,” she said.

“My aunt and uncle adopted a boy from China. Even the idea of someone trying to extort that kind of money from them? Breaks my heart.

“People like this really upset me.”

Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale warned residents of the scam phone call going around.

“It is the lowest of the low and absolutely appalling that during a crisis these scammers are taking advantage and ripping people off wanting to get personal information and plain lying about who they are and who they represent,” she said.

“This is fraud.”

For some people, home is not the safest place. Violence and abuse can happen in any type of relationship. But whatever your situation, it is important to know that help and support are available. Family violence is not limited to physical or sexual abuse, it includes emotional abuse and any threatening, coercive or controlling behaviour. Times of stress and hardship are never an excuse for violence, and no one deserves to live in fear of abuse from those closest to them.

If you are worried about yourself or someone you know or support, call 1800RESPECT or visit www.1800respect.org.au at any time for free and confidential information, counselling, and advice. ** Women from migrant and refugee backgrounds who are experiencing family or domestic violence can contact InTouch, the Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence on 1800 755 988 or visit intouch.org.au ** If you are or someone you know is in immediate danger call the Police on 000 12455982-CG32-20

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Pothole pain in Officer

By Danielle Kutchel Large potholes on Rix Road have been filled in

by Cardinia Council workers - but not before wreaking havoc on local drivers.

The potholes had formed along a seam where the old road surface had been joined to the new surface during recent re-routing works connected to the neighbouring Arcadia housing estate.

Regular wear and tear from drivers, including school traffic and trucks carting materials to nearby build sites, had made the craters worse and drivers were forced to wind their way around the holes - even, in some cases, veering onto the other side of the road.

Amber Morrissey’s partner was one of the unfortunate ones.He hit the potholes two weeks ago, resulting in a flat tyre and buckled rim.

The repairs have set them back $330 at a time when they need this least: Ms Morrissey lost her job as a flight attendant when the pandemic hit, and has since been stood down from a second job too.

“It could kill someone, make them run off the road,“ she said.

“They should compensate people when it happens there and maintain it - either block the road off if they can’t maintain it, or fill it daily.“ Another local driver, who wished to remain anonymous, hit the holes on Saturday, puncturing the side of their tyre.

They’ll need a new one, but they won’t receive compensation for the damage from the council or VicRoads as the cost of replacing the tyre falls below the threshold for compensation.

“I think any damages caused by the road itself should be covered,“ the driver said.

“There could also be warning signs as you approach. I was going under the speed limit

Shield yourself from the Cold this Winter

The ridge of potholes just hours before being filled. 212506 and it still happened.“ Just days after the Pakenham Gazette sent a number of questions to Cardinia Council, the potholes were filled in what seems to be a temporary fix on the afternoon of Monday 3 August.

Cardinia Shire Council’s general manager infrastructure and environment, Peter Benazic, said the council “repairs road defects as quickly as possible and in accordance with our Road Management Plan.“

Rix Road is slated for an upgrade in 2021, with the connected Officer South Road getting a freeway ramp by 31 December 2021.

The intersection of Rix, Bridge, Station and Officer South roads will receive traffic lights and Officer South Road will be upgraded between the freeway and Rix Road to a four-lane arterial road.

Mr Benazic confirmed that at this stage, construction plans for the freeway link are on track.

A buckled rim on Amber Morrissey’s partner’s car, courtesy of Rix Road.

Picture: SUPPLIED

The potholes have claimed several cars. 212506

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OPINION

Dating app rape charges A 25-year-old Berwick man has been arrested following two alleged incidents of sexual assault.

Detectives from the Sexual Crimes Squad arrested the man on Thursday 30 July as part of an ongoing investigation.The man is currently assisting police with their inquiries.

Police allege the first incident occurred in 2018 when a 19-year-old woman matched with the man on a dating application.

On Thursday 25 October, 2018 the man and woman met for dinner in Drouin.

Afterwards, the pair drove to an isolated area where police allege the man subsequently sexually assaulted the woman.

The second alleged incident occurred this year when an 18-year-old woman matched with the man on the same dating application.

Police say the woman was with a group of friends in a share house in Burwood on Tuesday 24 March, 2020 and invited the man to the property. While at the house, police say the man followed the woman into a room and allegedly sexually assaulted her.

On both occasions, the victims have reported being choked and unable to breathe, as well as being forced onto their stomachs, police say. The women described the man to police as aged in his early 20s, caucasian appearance, slim build, softly spoken with a demeaning attitude towards women.

They have told police the man’s dating profile identifies he is a computer science student and states “feds and narcs swipe left.”

The matters have only recently been reported to police and subsequently investigated by detectives from the Sexual Crimes Squad.

Police believe the incidents are linked.

Police are investigating and are continuing to look at any possible links to other matters.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

LENSCAPE

A big barrow at Clyde. 212637

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up To my son and other kids for doing their best during remote learning.

Thumbs down To everyone who doesn’t follow the rules. I hope you get fined.

Thumbs down To all the dog walkers that do not pick up their dog poop.

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Thumbs up

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

SOCIALLY SPEAKING

Kim Featherstone: We are going to miss him at Narre Warren South P-12 Amanda Lammeretz: Congratulations

On 30 July the Cranbourne Star News shared a story profiling Rob Duncan, the newly announced principal of the brandnew Cranbourne West Secondary School.

Here are how our readers reacted online: Yolande Marsh: Congratulations Rob! Cranbourne West are lucky to have you Laurel Krauser: Rob Duncan is an amazing principal. We were so sad to see him leave Narre Warren South P-12 College

On 30 July the Cranbourne Star News shared a story about a Target staff member at Casey Central Shopping Centre testing positive for coronavirus. Here are how our readers reacted online: Anne Clarke: Why are people not staying home? Is anyone getting it yet? Stay home if you have any symptoms Stacie Freeman: Another one??

Rachel Nadan: Be careful

RAY’S SAY

To all the retail staff for keeping us fed.

Thumbs down To all the stupid panic buyers again.

Thumbs down To the people who constantly dump their rubbish in front of the donation bins.... go to the tip!

Thumbs down To all the people walking their dogs off-leash around the streets. My on-lead dogs and I have been charged at by unleashed dogs five times in six weeks.

Thumbs up To all teachers and educators who are swinging back to remote learning, which is no small task. You are all amazing!

Thank you!!

Different, but Daffodil Day in full bloom

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REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au

Casey residents are being encouraged to throw their support behind this year’s Daffodil Day Appeal to help fund vital cancer research.

This year, Daffodil Day, which will be held on Friday 28 August, will look a little different with no site program, but the need to stop cancer is the same. Victorians are being encouraged to donate a daffodil online in August for life-saving cancer research.

Money raised through the Daffodil Day Appeal will help fund some of the brightest researchers in the country who are dedicated to discovering the next cancer breakthroughs.

Cancer Council is the largest not-for-profit funder of cancer research in Victoria. Last year, Cancer Council Victoria dedicated more than $29 million to cancer research. For details or to donate, visit daffodilday.com.au or call 1300 65 65 85. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

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Disgust at creek dumping

By Jessica Anstice A “disgusting” but disturbingly common sight has continued to outrage residents of a Pakenham estate after people continue to carelessly dump rubbish in a creek.

From dirty nappies, plastic bags, cat litter and household items, to bikes, boxes, shopping trolleys, plastic chairs and green waste, Kennedy Creek in Falling Waters Estate has become a “dumping ground” for some.

For more than three years now, the creek, as well as its popular walking track, has been polluted with litter, angering residents who live nearby.

Two residents were so fed up that they launched an online petition, in a bid to draw Cardinia Shire Council’s attention to take action.

The petition, started by Brijal Parikh and Cathy Mitchell, calls for a “properly funded annual management system’ to fix the environment, as well as an immediate clean up of Kennedy Creek.

Due to the current coronavirus restrictions the petitioners have been limited in obtaining more signatures but to date, 22 people have signed it.

“Kennedy Creek has become a rubbish dump and full of unwanted weeds - it could be a beautiful public asset to be enjoyed by everyone, however, its environment is being changed by neglect and inaction of authorities in our opinion,” Mr Parikh said.

“Residents of Fallingwater Estate believe a well-managed and healthy creek can help drain stormwater, reducing the impacts of flooding and preventing soil erosion.

“If the rubbish builds up continues with growth of unwanted plants in and around the creek, it will eventually reduce water flow; like a blocked-up toilet.

“Also, behind the creek it is becoming a haven for youth to smoke bongs and drink alcohol, leaving residents fearful of the area.”

Like most, all Fallingwaters Estate resident Yasmin Cohen and her family can do during the coronavirus lockdown is go for walks or ride bikes along Kennedy Creek.

“At the moment, down near the Kennedy Road, corner of Algerd Way and Devine Drive, there is a permanent oil slick that has been there for over two weeks,” she explained.

“There are approximately three different duck families that live along this creek also. My children are extremely fond of them.

“One of the main duck families use to reside in this section and have been forced to move further along near Fallingwater Drive, near that look out point, which isn’t much better in the way of rubbish and pollution.”

Ms Cohen said the pollution that is constantly visible along the creek is “disgusting”.

“I am not just talking about general rubbish - baby gates, plastic bags with dog poo, shopping trolleys or even the remainder foam balls left over from that broken bean bag,” she added.

“I feel that weekly I am taking photos and writing rubbish and pollution reports to the shire, via the Snap Send Solve app.

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“Unfortunately, not much is being done about it. Our natural wildlife is suffering and the natural beauty of this walk is very quickly deteriorating.”

The litter-strewn area has also left Fallingwater resident Dave Fox at his wits’ end.

Mr Fox, who lives just across the road from the creek, says he is horrified every time he stumbles upon piles of rubbish.

“It makes the area and walking track look very untidy - it’s not something I wish to walk outside in the morning and see,” he said.

“People need to be held responsible for their actions, but a couple of bins, even next to the benches, wouldn’t go astray.”

Resident Lyn Connor lives three houses up from the creek and has also noticed the severe pollution that covers the area.

“When it’s dry, the overgrown shrubbery and a build up of rubbish causes the creek to

For more than three years now, the creek, as well as its popular walking track, has been polluted with litter, angering residents who live nearby.

clogged up,” she said.

“The creek is very polluted - it’s got a lot of rubbish that floats through it.

“I remember walking past and someone emptied their green waste bin and it reeked.”

Resident Danielle Bradley believes the area needs a solution to prevent the pollution before it brings the area down more than it already has.

“It brings the area down - looks like a dumping ground in areas,” Ms Bradley said.

“If it was cleaned up it would be a much nicer area to walk with families, especially with the current climate, when our daily exercise walking around the creek, is our only outing.

“I think the creek is overgrown in areas, it needs to be cleaned up and fallen trees removed. We have personally had our property damaged from rats from the creek, this needs to stop.”

The creek and its banks and vegetation are the responsibility of Melbourne Water, however the nature strip alongside the creek is managed by Cardinia Shire Council.

“When complaints regarding litter or dumped rubbish on council-managed land are received they are inspected and actioned,” the council’s waste management services coordinator Jacqui Kelly said.

“If the report is located within the creek or its banks, the request is forwarded through to Melbourne Water.”

Melbourne Water has been contacted for comment.

Litter and pollution can be reported to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) online at https://ref.epa.vic.gov.au/get-involved/ report-litter or by calling 1300 372 842 (EPA VIC).

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From dirty nappies, plastic bags, cat litter and household items, to bikes, boxes, shopping trolleys, plastic chairs and green waste, Kennedy Creek in Fallingwaters Estate has become a “dumping ground” for some.

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A “disgusting” but disturbingly common sight has continued to outrage residents of a Pakenham estate after people continue to carelessly dump rubbish in a creek.

STAR NEWS 7

COVID-19 update A message from the Mayor “With Stage 4 restrictions now in place across metropolitan Melbourne, this week we’re all getting used to a number of new changes – including the requirement to follow curfew rules, and to stay within five kilometres of home if you need to go out for one of the four essential reasons. Of course, if your closest supermarket is further than five kilometres away, you can still shop there.

“Wearing a face mask or covering whenever we leave home has also become a vital part of our daily routine, and an important tool in the fight against COVID-19.

“Thank you to everyone who is doing the right thing by getting tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms, and staying home until you receive e the results. You’ll find details of the three testing sites in Cardinia Shire below.

“Please keep connecting with and supporting each other as we adjust to these tougher new restrictions – and let’s also keep supporting our local businesses whenever we can. Together, we’ll get through this.”

Cr Jeff Springfield Mayor, Cardinia Shire Council

Important reminder about outdoor spaces Using playgrounds, skate parks, BMX tracks, BBQs and outdoor exercise equipment is not allowed due to the Victorian Government’s current COVID-19 restrictions. If you see people using these facilities, please contact Victoria Police on their non-emergency hotline: 131 444.

Mount Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve is also closed until further notice, to prevent breaches of the restrictions and in the interests of public safety. You can visit all other parks and reserves across the shire for exercise provided you follow physical distancing, gathering and mask wearing requirements, stay within 5 kilometres of home and follow curfew rules.

For information on current restrictions: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/victorias-restriction-levels-covid-19

COVID-19 testing locations

Latest information

• Drive-through testing site – IYU Recreation Reserve, 165 Henry Road, Pakenham.

For the most up-to-date information and advice from the Victorian Government on restrictions, staying healthy and where to get tested: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

• Drive-through testing site – Koo Wee Rup Community Centre, 255 Rossiter Road, Koo Wee Rup. A booking is required; call 5997 9679.

• Pop-up screening clinic – Hills Hub, 402 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Emerald. Registrations required; call 1300 219 449.

For the latest information on testing locations and operating hours: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/getting-tested-coronavirus-covid-19

COVID-19 hotline 1800 675 398 www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/translated-resources -coronavirus-disease-covid-19

COVID-19 Online Help Hub Our website’s COVID-19 online help hub connects you with information and advice on topics including restrictions, staying healthy during COVID-19 and support available for community members and businesses.

If you’re experiencing financial hardship or seeking relief, or you’d like our dedicated ‘call back’ team to help you find the right support or information, contact us on 1300 787 624 or visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

If you’re feeling lonely or need support

Connecting Cardinia

Are you feeling isolated due to the COVID-19 pandemic? Support is available through the Community Activation and Social Isolation (CASI) initiative.

• For emotional support: call the COVID-19 hotline on 1800 675 398 and choose option 3.

• To be connected with local organisations, groups and practical assistance: call Council on 1300 787 624 or complete the online form on our website at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/casi

Come and join our online community space for people in the shire to connect with each other during the pandemic, and enjoy some fun and educational activities – including the new ‘Spoonville’ and ‘Wildlife Watchers’ challenges! www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/connectingcardinia

Services and facilities update Facility closures A number of facilities are closed due to the current restrictions. For a full list, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/servicechanges

We’re still here to help!

Our Customer Service Centre at Officer may be temporarily closed, but you can still contact our friendly team by phone or email or access a range of online services via our website.

Council information For the most up-to-date information on Council services, facilities and meetings, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au

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

8 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 6 August, 2020

More info: Victorian Government www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus Australian Government www.australia.gov.au

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The information on this page was correct at the time of print, but for the most up-to-date information visit www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

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NEWS

Hospital ‘prison’ reprieve

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A terminal cancer-patient has won a fight to be visited by his children despite ever-tightening restrictions on hospital visits.

Bradley Scicluna, 43, from Lynbrook, had been further suffering from not seeing his wife and two daughters for two weeks under the South Eastern Private Hospital’s strict Covid-19 ban.

“It is so wrong, especially for the patient’s mental wellbeing,” he said as he recovered from surgery for secondary bone cancer at the Mulgrave hospital’s rehab unit.

“It’s like prison.”

The last straw was the family being unable to celebrate Bradley’s wife Catherine’s birthday together last week.

But eventually the pleas bore fruit - with Catherine allowed one hour a day access and the children for 30 minutes on 26 July.

However the engineer at Dandenong bus manufacturer Volgren points to many other isolated patients, including intensive-care, denied visits from loved ones.

It’s not the first time he’s battled against the odds. Three years ago, he was diagnosed with stage-4 gall bladder cancer.

A regular jogger, he’s run on with the help of a clinical immunotherapy trial - even finishing the Melbourne Marathon in 2018.

He’s also battled for more patients to get access to life-saving but prohibitively expensive medication under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

His daughter Olivia had earlier written a distraught plea to Star Journal, in response to her father’s worsening condition: “Can you help me get to see my Dad?” “Due to the strict Covid-19 regulations no children are allowed in the hospital.

“My sister and I are missing our Dad so much.

“Nobody reports about how hard it is for children that can’t see their parents if they are in hospital during these times.

“Cancer doesn’t stop or go away even during a pandemic.”

On 15 July, the hospital temporarily banned in-person visits - a ban beyond state health department guidelines.

Even under tightened rules on 22 July, the DHHS recommends one visitor for up to one hour a day.

The hospital imposed the stricter limits due to a “significant increase” in community transmission and re-introduction of stage 3 Covid-19 restrictions.

“Family and patients are encouraged speak with hospital management to discuss their individual circumstances in order to accommodate visitation for compassionate grounds where possible,” a South Eastern Private spokesperson told Star Journal.

There are exceptions for palliative or end-oflife circumstances, or for specialist care givers.

This allowed Catherine to visit Bradley alone.

Brad Scicluna, while isolated in hospital.

Bradley Scicluna on the closing leg of his Melbourne Marathon run in 2018.

Olivia, Charlotte, Catherine and Brad Scicluna on a Gold Coast holiday in 2019.

Based on its own risk analysis, the hospital was able to introduce “additional measures” on top of DHHS-recommendations.

As of 24 July, the hospital had no known links to Covid-19 cases.

However Greater Dandenong as well as large parts of Melbourne have suffered alarming rises in Covid-19 cases in recent days.

In the past 14 days, active cases have soared from four to 87 in Greater Dandenong. At the same time, Casey’s active cases have swelled from 22 to 157.

“South Eastern Private Hospital, like a number of other private and public hospitals in the region, have implemented a nil visitor

policy to maximise the safety of patients, staff and doctors,” the hospital spokesperson said.

A Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson said “unprecedented measures” were being taken to protect hospital staff, patients and visitors.

“Due to an increased risk of transmission of coronavirus, changes have been made to the Chief Health Officer’s directions for hospital and aged care visits, to help slow the spread of this highly infectious and deadly virus.

“We know this is incredibly difficult for patients and their loved ones right now, but we need to do everything we can to keep people safe and save lives.”

Brad, Charlotte, Olivia and Catherine Scicluna at their Lynbrook home in 2018. 184199 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Night tremors: Quake and shake felt across district

By Mitchell Clarke Two small earthquakes shook the south eastern suburbs in the past week, with Pakenham being reported as the epicentre for each.

The first quake, a small Magnitude 2.2 tremor shook occurred just after 7pm on Wednesday night, 29 July.

According to Geoscience Australia, the earthquake was felt closest in and around Pakenham, and it certainly didn’t take long for the community to jump on social media and report the shake.

One Nar Nar Goon North woman described the incident as feeling like her house had been hit by a truck.

Another woman said the force of the tremor felt like there was a wave rolling under the house.

Jenny Henham’s glass of water was left shaking after the quake, which was felt down in Caldermeade.

People in Pakenham, Officer, Beaconspakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

field, Gembrook, Cockatoo and Emerald experienced the shake - to varying levels - but remarkably, even some living as far out as Croydon in the eastern suburbs also reported feeling a rumble.

Almost 60 kilometres away, Kilsyth resident Brayden Halamoutis said he felt his house shake.

“All my friends around The Basin area also said they felt it,“ he said.

“I can’t believe it went so far ... It wasn’t scary big or anything but I 100 percent felt the house shake.”

A second Magnitude 1.9 earthquake woke some light sleepers at about 3am on Tuesday morning, 4 August, according to the Seismology Research Centre.

“This and the last one feel different to what we have experienced before ... More explosion like, less tremor like,” one woman explained.

“Short and sharp compared to the earlier one,” another woman said.

Picture: GEOSCIENCE AUSTRALIA Thursday, 6 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 9

NEWS Berwick-Pakenham

Stay connected locally!

State Treasurer Tim Pallas with Bass MP Jordan Crugnale with students at Clyde Primary School in 2018 following the State Government’s election commitment of the school’s expansion project.

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By Mitchell Clarke

Pakenham has avoided down - but authoritie a strict four-week locks are warning against complacency - as the perately tries to controlState Government desthe spread of Covid-19.

Ten Melbourne postcodes will be lockdown from 11.59pm sent into on Wednesday amid 233 new cases of coronavirus since 1 July, urban testing blitz began last Thursday a sub25 June.

Pakenham - which was first identified one of 10 priority suburbs by the Premier as federal medical after authorities flagged Cardinia Shire as the entire a jected to the strict hotspot - will not be sublockdowns.

As of Tuesday 30 active known case June, there was only one of The site opened Shire, with the total Covid-19 in the Cardinia as part ever number of Government’s suburban of the State ting at 23. cases sittesting blitz. 210497 “We’re always guided by the advice of chief health officer the when it comes to directions and the the restrictions keeping health ans safe,” a governme VictoriGazette, when asked nt spokesperson told the if Pakenham would be classed as a hot still spot.

Australian Defence have been deployed Force (ADF) personnel to a drive through facility on Henry testing Road testing squads descendin Pakenham, as roving on doorsteps and up testing sites are popset up across the suburb.

Authorities are attempting to test sands in a bid to thoufind any traces of the virus within the commun DHHS employees ity.

Alex, Sam, Vineesha, and Harley provided Priya Cars lining up to Bass MP Jordan information in relation get tested at the Crugnale said around Covid-19 testing tests were being drive through facility.

600 to residents in Pakenham to conducted daily 210497 Pictures: STEWART Fallingwater Estate at IYU Re- Ms Crugnale serve. ’s CHAMBERS said. on Tuesday. 210604 “We have teams “And remember, “Cardinia and Casey Picture: JESSICA on the doors and we are in this ANSTICE are great places testing has also to live started. It is a massive street haul and these numbers will for the long and raise your family.

I am tical operation with continue to this proud to be part logis- change over time. of community and a coordinated response, It’s up to all of us she said. see the way we have to do our ” bit to bring them down hanand keep them down.” dled the Covid-19 restriction The MP said although The City of Casey s.” has Cardinia’s case num- ing At present, there bers were promising its total ever number 20 active cases, bringare no legal directions , it wasn’t plicable to a aptime 106, to become complace while the Yarra for locals Ranges has no to Pakenham, however active cases. nt. people living and working in the “The latest case Liberal Gembroo area are being asked numbers show really k MP Brad Battin to take progress in Pakenham good spot labelling said hot action to stay safe, and to had sent fear througho get tested, even but the broader ported numbers if re- community. ut the they don’t have symptoms. show that now more than ever we need to Residents are being “As long as the keep our focus, government continues not slack off, call tell everyone we partment of Health urged to use the Dean area with one know to keep up active case a hotspot, to hygiene, maintain the good one and Human Services will have faith in distance and get no (DHHS) website the decisions they to obtain accurate, tested,” he said. make,” date informati up-toon, which is also translated in Australian Defence Force nurses 12418633-LN21 over 30 different -19 working with languages. registered nurses at Pakenham’s IYU testing facility.

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A $22.8 million makeover of Clyde Primary School is one step closer with the State Government securing a site to expand the school.

Bass MP Jordan Crugnale and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards announced that land at Clyde-Five Ways Road had been acquired to support the delivery of new learning and sports facilities for the school.

The expansion of Clyde Primary School will include a new junior school building, administration building and sports facilities including a new gymnasium, soccer field and two new hard courts.

The existing school buildings will also undergo a complete refurbishment to provide a new library and staff work areas, and the school will also receive a new relocatable building for specialist training. The project will include 11 new general learning areas, specialist art, STEM and music areas.

External design features include a custombuilt outdoor learning area, kitchen garden and landscaping throughout.

The school is expected to open in 2022 and

will cater for 525 students once completed.

In a previous interview with Star News the principal of Clyde Primary School Fiona Pratt welcomed the announcement, saying an expansion was timely given the student enrolments were expected to grow in the years to come.

Meanwhile, Ms Crugnale and Ms Richards also announced land at Eliston Avenue, Clyde has been purchased for the new Clyde North Station Primary School (interim name) and that the tender for construction is now open.

The new school is expected to open in 2022 and will cater for 525 students once completed.

Planning for Clyde North Station Primary School has involved extensive consultation with the local community, the results of which will be published in the coming months. A founding principal will start next year, and they will work with locals to name the new school.

The new school is part of the school building boom that will see 100 new government schools open by 2026.

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Check us out online at pakenham.starcommunity.com.au/ *Most local areas covered

Fight to save bandicoots

By Brendan Rees They’re cute little critters that can be found around Cranbourne mostly at night, making small cone-shaped diggings in the soil when feeding on underground fungi and insects.

Sadly, the southern brown bandicoot, a native Australian mammal, is endangered due to urban development and introduced predators, such as feral cats and foxes but a group of researchers are hoping the community can help save their population.

The School of Life and Environmental Sciences at Deakin University is conducting a survey which asks Cranbourne residents

what features they have in their backyards and whether bandicoots have been visiting - with all information provided voluntary and anonymous.

The results will provide some great background information to help shape the bandicoot outreach program at Cranbourne Gardens.

To thank people for their contribution Deakin University is offering participants the chance to win one of 10 $50 vouchers to the Cranbourne Royal Botanic Gardens Cafe, Boon Wurrung.

The 10 to 15 minute survey can be accessed at https://researchsurveys.deakin. edu.au/jfe/form/SV_b9HIPTni1LZu6Hz

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10 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 6 August, 2020

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NEWS

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Smith has Covid scare An ex-Casey councillor is quarantining after coming into contact with two youths in police custody who tested positive to Covid-19.

Wayne Smith said he had been assisting police in his volunteer duties as a bail justice and an independent person when he came into close contact with the male youth offenders, both 17, at Cranbourne and Dandenong police stations.

The boys, who were arrested for car-related offences on Saturday 25 July, tested positive to the virus after attending the Melbourne Youth Justice Centre in Parkville.

Mr Smith, who served more than 25 years as a councillor with the City of Casey, said he got a call from the Department of Health and Human Services on Sunday afternoon 26 July advising him of the positive tests and was directed to enter self-isolation for 14 days.

The next day Mr Smith, 61, said he had tested negative to a Covid-19 test but would require a second test on his eleventh day of quarantine. He added he hadn’t been experiencing any Covid-19 symptoms.

Mr Smith said his scare unfolded after being called to Cranbourne police station to assess the suitability of one of the boys for bail placement in his role as a bail justice following the pair’s arrest.

He then received a call from Dandenong police at 2am the following morning on Sunday 26 July to act as an independent person in a police interview with the second boy, who had earlier required attendance at Dandenong Hospital following his arrest.

Independent persons are volunteers with the Youth Referral and Independent Person Program, who are required to attend police pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

interviews to support people under 18 whose parents or guardian may not be available.

Mr Smith said he had spent about half-anhour with the boy in the interview room as well as additional time in another room where police fingerprinted the boy.

However, Mr Smith said he was “reasonably confident” of not being infected as his contact was “deemed as low risk”.

“Everyone was in masks including the young people and there was distancing,” he said.

Mr Smith is strictly forbidden from leaving his Lynbrook home where he was living separate from family members. He said the only exception for leaving his home was for medical emergencies.

“It was annoying that you’re doing the right thing ... you’re volunteering and you’re trying to do a good deed and then that happens,” Mr Smith said.

“As volunteers we’re risking their own health and safety to do what they love doing.”

Mr Smith said he had enough food supplies and had topped up his freezers with family and friends also offering to deliver essential items.

“I’ve been really impressed and pleased with people checking in. We’re pretty lucky we’ve got a caring community.”

Meanwhile, Mr Smith said he was keeping busy working from home as an outreach youth support worker at the Monash Children’s Hospital.

“I’m busy from the time my work day starts at 8.30 with Webex conferences, I go all day,” he said.

“I can’t complain I’m bored ... the weekend might be a bit different.”

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Thursday, 6 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 11

NEWS

Homelessness hits hard

By Danielle Kutchel The reality is that most of us are just one or two paychecks away from being out on the streets.

And it’s a reality that’s hit hard during the Covid-19 pandemic - although the problem existed well before the virus hit.

Homelessness is increasingly felt out here in the east and south-east, where nearly half of the state’s social housing waiting list are based.

At the council meeting on Tuesday 21 July, the City of Casey signed up to the Regional Local Government Homelessness and Social Housing Charter.

The charter consists of 13 eastern and south-eastern Councils and represents two million residents. It was developed following a forum initiated by Monash Council with stakeholders across the region uniting for action on social housing, and advocates for an increased amount of social housing in the region to help address homelessness.

City of Casey chair of administrators, Noelene Duff, said that Casey’s “wholehearted support of a regional framework for action is very high priority.”

“More than 44,000 households are waiting for social housing and 40 per cent of those are in the east/south-east region,” she said.

“This is why a collective effort is required across the region, by each council and in the State and Federal Government context, to make meaningful change.

“We are seeing the ongoing impact of the Coronavirus pandemic is continuing to hit the most vulnerable in our community, including those who until recently had employment and homes, but are now requiring assistance.”

At the council meeting, the administrators heard that 4,065 individuals had accessed homelessness services in Casey, the secondhighest number of any municipality in Victoria.

The council’s endorsement comes ahead of National Homelessness Week, from 2 to 8 August.

To mark the week, the interim report of the Inquiry into Homelessness in Victoria was released on Tuesday 4 August.

While the inquiry itself will continue until February 2021, the interim report provides a snapshot of the key areas that those who made a submission to the inquiry believe are the most important, collected via a survey.

Respondents listed public housing as their top policy priority, but housing affordability and rough sleeping were also high priorities for respondents.

The survey results reinforce other evidence collected by the committee that “the key to preventing and ending homelessness is an adequate supply of safe, affordable, longterm housing,” the report said.

Support agency Wayss is at the forefront of the homelessness problem.

CEO Liz Thomas said Covid-19 had

ed Publish y ursda

Wayss CEO Liz Thomas.

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brought about a sort of reckoning in the community as people realise what homelessness means.

“We’ve all now realised that a homeless person isn’t a drunk guy with a bottle and brown paper bag on a park bench; it’s the person you worked with last month,” she said.

Wayss wants to see targeted, specific solutions to the need, jointly addressed by all those involved: support agencies, local councils, state and federal governments.

It’s a job that’s complicated by the fact that no one knows how long Covid will go on for.

But Ms Thomas said “it all comes back to housing”.

In their submission to the Inquiry earlier this year, Wayss called for greater provision of affordable and appropriate housing: one and two bedroom properties that can provide a safe option for young people and those living on their own.

Wayss also supports incentive-based inclusionary zoning in new housing developments, where a percentage of the development is set aside for social housing.

This year, Wayss has responded to people experiencing homelessness for the first time as well as an increased number of families escaping family violence.

Calls to Wayss for family violence support dropped slightly during the last lockdown and peaked as restrictions were lifted, and Ms Thomas said she expects to see a similar pattern this time.

She added it was important for women to know they are able to leave the house during lockdown to escape violence and seek assistance.

“If you’re a victim of family violence you can leave your home at any time to get help,” she said.

Wayss can provide housing support in this situation, with a focus on finding ways for women and their children to remain in the family home if it is safe to do so, rather than having to find somewhere new to live, and linking them with trauma and mental health support too.

And as the pandemic continues, Ms Thomas said Wayss would continue to work with governments and other support services to prepare for the “unmet need”.

“We don’t know what we’re gong to be facing on the other side but we do need to work in collaboration, to pool our resources to come up with the best possible solution.

“Ultimately, giving people homes is, I believe, our fundamental rsponsbility as a community,” she said.

If you are experiencing family violence and need help, you can call 1800 RESPECT, or Safe Steps on 1800 015 188. You can also email Safe Steps on safesteps@safesteps.org.au or visit their website for live web chat support.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000.

12 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 6 August, 2020

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Mum’s pantry gives back

By Brendan Rees When single mum Elizabeth Cook began handing out free food from her own pantry to those in need she says it felt like the right thing to do.

The Clyde North resident has been praised by her neighbours for her simple idea of setting up a table of food at her Ramlegh Boulevard driveway for people to take what they need.

“It helps so many people and especially in these hard times and there’s so many people in need,” she said. “I’ve got a three-year-old with cerebral palsy and she loves giving.”

Her project began two weeks ago when she decided to clean out her walk-in-pantry and freezers to help others struggling during the coronavirus pandemic.

It wasn’t long before people began messaging her asking if they could also donate food staples.

“I had about 170 messages just in the first three days of doing it.

“Next minute, there was a Coles delivery that came to my house with five bags. That was from another lady in the estate who wanted to contribute.

“It’s just kept going,” she said.

On one day she had 26 families pick up bags.

“So many people have said: ‘We’re doing our shopping, we’re going to get an extra bag for you’.

“I think I’ve spent about $250 in the last four days out of my own pocket just to add veg-

Elizabeth Cook, right, has set up a table of food in her driveway for people to collect for free. Her mum Geri, left, and daughter Layla have also been helping hands. 212490 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

gies and long life milk, bread and everything for everyone.”

Due to the stage four stay-at-home rules the table has been temporarily put on hold while

ment to collect a bag of goodies.

“Hopefully we’re have the table back out and I’m keeping everyone updated. We just really want to keep it going.”

she seeks seeking clarity from the Department of Health and Human Services.

However, those in need may still message Ms Cook via Facebook to make an appoint-

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STAR NEWS 13

FOCUS ON … TAX TIME

Accountants are experts Business has been challenging in the last five months to say the least.

At the start of the last financial year, few, if any businesses would have factored a global pandemic into their budgets or business plans.

Many businesses have had severe restrictions placed on their trade which is entirely beyond their control.

Other businesses, conversely, have suddenly found themselves busier than ever, with their team members being stretched to their limit.

Most businesses have been grateful for the support received by both the federal and state governments, either through stimulus payments, wage support, grants, or payroll tax relief.

However, negotiating access to some of these government or banking incentives has been tricky at best.

A business’ best asset during these times has been a good working relationship with their business accountant.

Among the many things that BJT have done for clients during this period are cashflow budgets for business planning and banking purposes, business analyses, as well as applications for Victorian Government Business Relief grants, JobKeeper, Cash Flow Stimulus Boost, and refunds of Victorian (and other state) Payroll Tax. BJT has had many clients express their gratitude and relief at BJT being able to help them navigate the complexities of the government programs.

Michelle Beadle, principal at BJT Business Advisors.

As accountants, BJT’s job is to help business owners have enough information to make informed, intelligent choices in a period of such great uncertainty.

BJT Business Advisors are located in Berwick, and specialise in business and family groups. Visit www.bjtbusinessadvisors.com.au for more.

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Due to COVID-19 and in the health and safety interests of clients and staff we are preparing salary and wage returns via email this year

•฀Accountants฀&฀Business฀Advisers฀฀ •฀Taxation฀•฀Salary฀/฀Wage฀Returns •฀Business฀Accounting฀&฀Taxation

26 Main Street, Pakenham

Phone: 5941 3000

Tax advice for landlords The Australian Taxation Office is aware that residential rental property owners may be concerned about how Covid-19, floods or bushfires have reduced their income. This may be a result of tenants paying less or entering deferred payments plans, or travel restrictions which have affected demand for short-term rental properties. New legislation also affects the tax deductions that owners of vacant land can claim.

Assistant Commissioner Karen Foat explained that whatever the circumstances, the most important first step was to keep records of all expenses.

“Without good records, you will find it difficult to declare all your rental-related income in your tax return and work out what expenses you can claim as deductions.”

Reduced rental income The Covid-19 pandemic has placed property owners and tenants in unforeseen circumstances. Many tenants are paying reduced rent or have ceased paying because their income has been adversely affected by Covid-19.

You should include rent as income at the time it is paid, so you only need to declare the rent you have received as income. If payments by your tenants are deferred until the next financial year you do not need to include these payments until you receive them.

While rental income may be reduced, owners will continue to incur normal expenses on their rental property and will still be able to claim these expenses in their tax return as long as the reduced rent charged is determined at arms’ length, having regard to the current market conditions.

This applies whether the reduction in rent was initiated by the tenants or the owner.

Some owners may have rental insurance that covers a loss of income. It is important to remember that any payouts from these types of policies are assessable income and must be included in tax returns.

Many banks have moved to defer loan repayments for stressed mortgagees. In these circumstances, rental property owners are still able to claim interest being charged on the loan as a deduction- even if the bank defers the repayments.

Short-term rentals “We recognise that circumstances over the past six months have seen many short-term rentals see cancellations or sit vacant as a result of either COVID-19 or bushfires,” Ms Foat said.

In circumstances where COVID-19 or natural disasters have adversely affected demand, including the cancellation of existing bookings for a short-term rental property, deductions are still available provided the property was still genuinely available for rent.

If owners decided to use the property for private purposes, offered the property to family or friends for free, offered the property to others in need or stopped renting the property out they cannot claim deductions in respect of those periods.

“Generally speaking, if your plans to rent a property in 2020 were the same as those for 2019, but were disrupted by Covid-19 or bushfires, you will still be able to claim the same proportion of expenses you would have been entitled to claim previously,” Ms Foat said.

To determine the proportion of expenses that can be claimed for short-term rental properties impacted by Covid-19 or bushfires, a reasonable approach is to apportion expenses based on the previous year’s usage pattern, unless you can show it was genuinely available for rent for a longer period of time in 2020.

If you or your family or friends move into the property to live in it because of Covid-19 or bushfires, you need to count this as private use when working out your claims in 2020.

Deductions for vacant land no longer available For the 2020 year, expenses for holding vacant land are no longer deductible for individuals intending to build a rental property on that land but the property is not yet built. This also applies to land for which you may have been claiming expenses in previous years.

However, this does not apply to land that is used in a business, or if there has been an exceptional circumstance like a fire or flood leading to the land being vacant.

So, if you are building a rental property, you cannot claim the deductions for the costs of holding the land, such as interest.

However, if your rental property was destroyed in the bushfires and you are currently rebuilding, you can claim the costs of holding your now vacant land for up to 3 years whilst you rebuild your rental property.

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14 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 6 August, 2020

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NEWS

Disability service online

By Mitchell Clarke A Pakenham disability service has moved their tuition online to ensure NDIS participants can continue to grow and build their skills.

Like many organisations, Wallara has had to reinvent their response to Covid, which included shutting their Pakenham base on Doherty Street and moving online.

For Cockatoo man, Malcolm Roberts, 18, being able to continue attending Wallara courses throughout the pandemic has been vital.

Malcolm has autism and a mild intellectual disability, and lives at home with his mother Ruth, father Tim and brother James on their rural property.

A National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant, Malcolm began at Wallara earlier this year and was using his NDIS funding to attend five days a week when the pandemic hit.

“He clicked with Wallara and was really enjoying it there but then they had to close the centre down towards the end of March,” mother Ruth explained.

“Malcolm’s the sort of person who likes to be doing things and he started struggling emotionally because of the unknown. He likes to know what’s happening, when it’s happening, where he’s going and all that type of stuff, so the sudden shutdown and all the dire news on TV resulted in a lot of angst for him.

“Then three weeks into the lockdown Wallara started sending us emails with information about all the programs their clients could do online.”

Malcolm selected six courses to undertake from home - maths, Lego, games, communication skills, health and wellbeing, and safety in the workplace.

“To begin with he found it a bit odd and struggled for the first week, then he just took to it,” Ruth added.

“It’s really quite interesting listening in to what he does. He’s got the computer in his bedroom and he gets himself sorted first thing because he knows his classes begin at 9.30am, then I can hear the moment they start because he starts chatting away - sometimes about things that are nothing to do with his course mind you.

“But it’s just really nice for him to have that connection with people, and a lot of them are

people who he hadn’t met before he started his online courses, so it’s been great for his social confidence.”

Wallara CEO Phil Hayes-Brown said the expansion of services online had been planned for some time but the lockdown had made the move a business imperative.

“We’ve got a goal to be the leading disability educator in Victoria by 2022 and obviously we have to be online if we are to reach people beyond our home base in Melbourne’s southeast suburbs,” Mr Hayes-Brown said.

“Right now we’re targeting people with different abilities throughout Victoria but the reality is that these services can be reached from wherever you live right across Australia - all you need is an internet connection and a device.

“For the first time, our trainers are able to provide much needed support to those living in remote or rural Australia who previously have not been able to access support services.”

For the Roberts family, one of the biggest benefits of learning from home has been avoiding the twice daily commute from Cockatoo to Pakenham.

“Malcolm got his P plates just before the lockdown started but he can only drive to local areas that he knows, and catching a bus from Cockatoo to Pakenham is two hours each way,” Ruth explained.

“The online service delivery has been fantastic, but ultimately I want Malcolm to reengage in at least some face-to-face learning at Wallara instead of sitting at home.”

As for future career aspirations, Malcolm loves wildlife and has a particular passion for kookaburras “which he loves chatting to”.

Ruth said it’d be great for him to find some type of work or volunteer opportunities in that field.

“Moving forward he’ll be able to try different job options at Wallara, to discover what works for him and what fits with his abilities,” she said.

“Malcolm needs to learn to be out in the wider world, I don’t really mind whether it’s employment or volunteering but he’s got to be doing something.

“Once he’s experienced that world, he’s the sort of person that would really enjoy it.”

For more information on Wallara’s online courses: www.wallara.com.au/.

Malcolm began at Wallara earlier this year and was using his NDIS funding to attend five days a week when the pandemic hit. 212283

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By Rowan Forster A lifesaving Pakenham-based venture, spear-

health care system for the entire community.

According to government figures, 45 per cent of metropolitan emergency department

We just keep getting MEGA.

health care system for the entire community.

According to government figures, 45 per cent of metropolitan emergency department presentations are non-urgent.

Tiny Hearts has also compiled statistics from participants, illustrating the importance of teaching the critical first aid skills.

After the course, 98 per cent of parents said they felt more confident to act effectively in an emergency.

Almost 50 per cent reported that they had used their acquired infant and child first aid knowledge within six months of undertaking the course.

Narre Warren's Shelby Cooke, who performed CPR on her choking two-year-old daughter while paramedics rushed to their home, stressed the importance of first aid training.

She believes that had she not received the course through her workplace, her daughter may have suffocated.

"I still owe everything to having those skills," she said.

"The more people that are equipped with them, the less tragedies we're going to see with children, babies and toddlers.

"It's such a frightening thing to go through - so you need to be prepared."

The free sessions will be held across the region, including at Beaconhills College, in Pakenham.

Topics covered will include choking, fevers, convulsions, burns, drowning, bleeding, caring for an unconscious person, bites and stings and head injuries.

Parents or caregivers interested in undertaking the free training can sign up by heading to: www.tinyheartsfirstaid.com/fundedcourse.

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Rachael Waia, a former educator and volunteer first responder, putting her knowledge to use through Tiny Hearts. 186880

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Hearts to help

A lifesaving Pakenham-based venture, spearheaded by a paramedic and a teacher, has received a federal cash injection to provide free first aid training throughout Melbourne's south-east.

Tiny Hearts - founded by sisters Rachael Waia and Nikki Jurcutz - will arm 1800 local parents and carers with the skillsets required to save their children in the event of an emergency.

In a regional first, 300 parents are also set to be trained bilingually, catering for Chinese and Afghan communities.

Their journey began in a garage, but Tiny Hearts now has a headquarters in Pakenham's Industrial Park - proving that business success is attainable under the most challenging circumstances.

Ms Waia, a former educator and volunteer first responder, was first aid trained when she was just 15 years old.

She is determined to share her vital knowledge with as many parents as possible.

"I've got two kids of my own and I know what it's like when they choke and when they're really sick," she said.

"Because we've got such a good report built with our parents, we get a lot of feedback where they say, hey, you literally saved our babies' lives.

"I love what I do - waking up and making a difference."

Tiny Hearts worked in conjunction with the South East Melbourne Primary Health Network to secure the federal grant.

The organisation also hopes to reduce the number of inappropriate admissions to the emergency department and create a better

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VISIT

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe Malcolm Roberts has been enjoying learning from home. 212283 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Thursday, 6 August, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 15

HOME FOCUS

MODERN APPEAL WITH WARRAGUL VIEWS ARE you looking for a home that offers style, size, and comfort?

Sitting on a 666m2 block, this property offers three spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms, a modern kitchen with quality appliances, separate lounge room, plus open plan design with multiple living areas which is sure to impress the larger family.

The property offers privacy for every member of the family and includes a double garage with internal access, covered alfresco area and raised backyard ideal for outdoor entertaining with magnificent views over Warragul .

An inspection will not disappoint. ●

 

HOME ESSENTIALS 

 Address:7 Bladen Street, WARRAGUL, 3820 Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $450,000 - $495,000 Inspect: Contact the agent  Contact: Vince Di Grazia 0433 921 581, RAY WHITE DROUIN  

 Take advantage of the $20,000* first home owners grant and even  better….

Receive up to $25,000*  for the new builders scheme.  Now is the time to buy! 

—

    

*eligibility criteria must be met

‘BRANDY Lampard CREEK RIS 96 | Drouin

| Drouin

Road



Inclusions • Carpet to remaining • Flush panel • Vinyl wrap kitchen areas from builders internal doors with stone benchtops range • Internal door handles • Stainless steel electric • Stainless steel sink • 50mm Scotia cornice oven and flick mixer throughout • Stainless steel gas hot to kitchenTOWN • White glo tub plates • Chrome mixer tops to laundry • Stainless steel range from builders range • Weathertough acrylic hood • Mirrors with polished to all exterior • Ducted heating edge to bathroom • Sewer power, • Ceramic floor and wall • Exhaust fans to drainage, gas and tiles as per floor plans bathrooms water connections as *Subject to developers final approval, statutory regulations & builders preferred sitting. from subject to change without notice.

• Roller *Pricing & inclusions Pictures door for illustration purposes only. per plans builders range to garage • Outdoor water taps 16 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 6 August, 2020

FOR SALE - 18 Stunning Units Nestled amongst the open space of Bellbird Park, Drouin.

First home buyers grant of $20,000 available to eligible purchasers. BUY NOW AND SAVE THOUSANDS ON STAMP DUTY!

For more information, contact: Dale Atkin: 0402 717 891

Don’t miss this opportunity to purchase a unit in a great part of Drouin, surrounded by open space and parklands. With 2 & 3 bedroom and single & double garage options, these quility built units feature open plan kitchen/meals/living area, and high quality inishes throughout.

96 Lampard Road is located just 1.5kms from Drouin’s main shopping precinct, schools, train station and recreation facilities. Take a leisurely bike ride along the ‘Two Towns Trail’ from Drouin to Warragul, enjoy the town’s restaurants and cafe’s, take the kids to the local skate park, or make the most of the array of sporting facilities ofered in Drouin including golf course and basketball stadium.

12452901-SG27-20 12451848-NG25-20 12452901-SG27-20

  

* Images are for illustration purposes only.

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

WHETHER YOU ARE BUYING OR SELLING, USE THE TEAM WITH PROVEN RESULTS

LOCKDOWN Part 1 We adapted to the restrictions imposed on us quickly, and our results confirm we can still perform to achieve amazing results for the local community during these hard times.

112 total sales LOCKDOWN Part 2 We continue to change with the conditions and have already made in the past three weeks.

22 43 sales

If you are thinking of buying or selling, talk to the local experts today.

Anil Jayalath 0422 220 779

Aman Singh 0430 420 053

Terry Lock 0407 494 199

Janine Scott-Rule 0417 160 423

Chris Aabryn 0401 045 883

Geoff Gaertner 0412 990 871

Arvind Mahajan 0421 691 765

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pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

P 5943 1111 #wecare

W krpeters.com.au

#staysafe

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Thursday, 6 August, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 17

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

RESORT STYLE LIVING IN BOTANIC RIDGE FALL in love with this immaculate 4-bedroom plus study premium family home which has been brilliantly constructed with no expense spared.

Positioned perfectly within the beautiful and highly sought-after Summerhill Estate which is setting a new standard in Botanic Ridge, this home is sure to tick all the boxes.

The home offers a long list of features including: bedroom complete with walk-in robe · Master and a full ensuite.

2 , 3 and 4 are all spacious with · Bedrooms built-in robes plus study. living zones comprising a massive open · Two plan living room plus home theatre/rumpus. kitchen with high quality finishes in· Modern cluding stainless steel appliances and Cae-

· · · · · · ·

sar stone bench tops plus a gorgeous walk in pantry Meals/ living area offers direct access to outdoor area.

Ducted gas heating and refrigerated air conditioning .

Double remote garage plus rear access.

Side access perfect for tradies or for extra parking, boats, trailers or caravans for when the relatives drop by.

Gorgeous alfresco area great for entertaining family and friends amid low maintenance landscape gardens.

Stunning outdoor solar heated pool.

All on 512 m2 (approx.)block.

Botanic Ridge is only a moment’s drive to shopping, transport, recreation, sports and education districts also set to benefit from the future Botanic Village Shopping Centre with Coles and speciality stores. If you’re looking for a lifestyle change Botanic Ridge borders the Royal Botanical Gardens,

is home to the Botanic Ridge Wetlands with plenty of walking tracks and nearby two golf courses.

Make this your dream home! You don’t want to miss this opportunity so please call John Lauretta directly to book an appointment. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 29 Bankside Drive, Botanic Ridge, 3977, VIC Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $759,000 Contact: John Lauretta 0421 088 646, FIRST NATIONAL FINNING REAL ESTATE

Take advantage of the $10,000* first home owners grant and even better….

Receive up to $25,000* for the new builders scheme.

Now is the time to buy! *eligibility criteria must be met

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 12452900-LB26-20

18 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 6 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 19

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pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Berwick Lodge Primary School teacher Rob Kelly

How long have you been a teacher and where did you study?

I am a graduate of Monash University. I’ve been teaching in the primary sector for 11 years. It’s been quite a journey. For most of that time, I have been a teacher at Berwick Lodge Primary School. I have learnt so much and tried my best to be a valuable part of the school community. I have been a senior school teacher, school council member and even traveled to Singapore (twice 2013 and 2017) with students on a cultural experience.

Which subjects do you love most?

As a digital technologies teacher, I enjoy teaching coding, robotics and multimedia. I believe that teachers who use a wide range of multimedia tools in their classroom help students take advantage of their brain’s ability to make connections between verbal and visual representations of content, leading to a deeper understanding of the taught material.

Is remote teaching a challenge?

I’m not sure there is a teacher, parent or student who would say that it wasn’t challenging.

At Berwick Lodge Primary School, our school community have pulled together to make the most of the situation. Every challenge provides us with an opportunity to learn and grow.

Has the pandemic interrupted any big events or holidays you had planned for this year?

Yes, it has. My partner was going to run in the Gold Coast marathon again this year, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic. It would have been her fifth marathon and her third Gold Coast event. There’s always next year...

What’s your favourite movie?

I don’t have a favourite movie, but I do love watching the BBC. My favourite series is Doctor Who. If you don’t like it, we can’t be friends.

Favourite holiday destination?

I’ve been to a few incredible places both far and wide, but a couple of years ago, my part-

ner and I went on a cruise with a group friends to Papua New Guinea and the surrounding islands. It was a blast! We loved it. I would do that again!

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

To be honest, right now I would trade places with any Australian who had the freedom to leave their homes without a curfew, catch-up with family and friends, shop freely and enjoy exercise without limitation.

At school I.... was exceptionally talented, good-looking and athletic. Some people may disagree with one or all of those.

Best concert or live performance you have attended?

There have been so many! From The Lion King at the Regent Theatre to the Vicar of Dibley at the 1812 Theatre in Ferntree Gully, I love seeing a live performance.

Have you taken up any new home projects or hobbies during the lockdown?

I love anything to do with space. As an enthusiastic member of the Astronomical Society of Victoria, I have recently taken up astro-photography. Over the last few nights, I have been taking photos of the moon - many of which I’m very proud of.

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Catholic Education in the Diocese of Sale is a vital expression of the mission of the Church. The Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited (DOSCEL) is a company limited by guarantee to manage and operate Catholic schools in the Diocese of Sale.

The Director of Catholic Education in the Diocese of Sale is seeking to appoint a full-time SCHOOL PAYROLL OFFICER

Replacement Position Commencement date by negotiation.

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

Applications close Wednesday 19 August 2020 The Catholic Education Office, Diocese of Sale promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

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Catholic Education in the Diocese of Sale is a vital expression of the mission of the Church. The Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited (DOSCEL) is a company limited by guarantee to manage and operate Catholic schools in the Diocese of Sale.

The Director of Catholic Education in the Diocese of Sale is seeking to appoint a full-time School Finance Accountant (Primary)

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STAR NEWS 21

SPORT

NAB League called off

By Nick Creely In a major blow to the next crop of AFL and AFLW draftees in Victoria, the premier under-18 competition, the NAB League, has been cancelled for season 2020.

It was hoped that the Country conference - except for the Dandenong Stingrays - would get a start on 22 August, and the Metro conference would potentially get some games in later in the season, however with the Victorian State Government’s declaration of a State of Disaster this week and with restrictions going to stage four in metropolitan Melbourne and stage three in regional areas, the decision was confirmed by the AFL on Tuesday to scrap the season.

At this stage, the AFL is hoping to run some representative matches between Vic Metro and Vic Country squads later in the year - if restrictions are eased as Melbourne grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic. The AFL’s head of talent and state league competitions Tristan Salter told AFL.com.au that, while the news was of great disappointment, it was the only option for the AFL with the current restrictions.

“All levels of the game across Victoria have been impacted by the health pandemic this year and under the new restrictions, any form of training and competition for both metropolitan and regional players and clubs is prohibited,” he said.

“We acknowledge this is extremely disappointing news for the players, coaches, officials, volunteers and fans of the NAB League competition and we commend every NAB League region that has worked tirelessly to find a way through.

“Every step of the way, our focus has been on the safety of players, coaches, volunteers, officials and our communities. Following the updated restrictions announced by Victorian state government, it provided too great a challenge for all involved.”

The AFL has also confirmed it will allow more players who are in their draft year to return to the NAB League next year if they are not drafted by an AFL club in 2020, in what is already going to be a new-look draft model.

With the NAB League girls seasons managing to get three matches in March before the season was brought to a standstill, a team of the year will be awarded but there will be no premiership awarded in 2020.

The Dandenong Stingrays and Gippsland Power won’t take to the field this season. 195934 Salter said that the AFL remains committed to supporting the players ahead of the AFLW and AFL drafts later this year, and praised everyone in the NAB League community for their efforts in trying to get a season up and running.

“Throughout this pandemic the NAB

League community has shown great resilience and perseverance and we admire and appreciate the continued positivity during a difficult year for our community. I am not alone in appreciating the challenges players, staff and their families are facing,” he said.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS “We maintain our commitment to all players that we will continue to explore arrangements to assist them with their talent profile ahead of the NAB AFLW and NAB AFL Drafts later this year.”

Cricket Victoria’s plan for a Premier Cricket return

By Nick Creely Cricket Victoria has confirmed the start date for the 2020/21 Victorian Premier Cricket season, with the governing body targeting 24 October as the day to get the season underway.

Due to the current Covid-19 situation across metropolitan Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire, there has been a great deal of uncertainty regarding the returning to training, and ultimately the return to a playing capacity for the upcoming season.

As such, Cricket Victoria presented clubs with a series of scenarios for a return to the field, which includes a cut-off date.

The following scenarios for the season include: 1. 24 October start date (cut-off date: 10 September) 2. 7 November start date (cut-off date: 24 September) 3. 21 November start date (cut-off date: 8 October) 4. 5 December start date (cut-off date: 29 October) 5. 9 January start date (cut-off date: 26 November) 6. 23 January start date (cut-off date: 10 December) 7. 30 January start date (cut-off date: 5 January) However, due to metropolitan Melbourne moving to Stage 4 restrictions until 13 September, it would appear the season is almost 22 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 6 August, 2020

Cricket Victoria has set a variety of scenarios for the start of the Premier Cricket season.

198536 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS certain to be delayed beyond 24 October, with that date going past the cut-off date for the first scenario. A late-November season start is more likely at this stage.

Based off advice from Cricket Australia, Cricket Victoria high performance, BBL teams, the Premier Cricket Strategy Group, and the clubs themselves, advice has been given that players would require the following pre-season workloads to be ready for first XI competition:

· Twenty20 matches (3-5 weeks of bat vs ball); · One-day matches (4-6 weeks of bat vs ball); · Two-day matches (6-8 weeks bat vs ball).

Cricket Victoria has recommended that most of the Premier Cricket season should be played in a shorter format (eg. one-day/Twenty20 for women and one-day for men), with consideration given for any possible Covid-19 outbreaks midway through a two-day match.

For the men’s and women’s competitions, some different structures for the season will

be dependent on the season start date, however some key items include - for the men that two-day matches will only be played in scenarios one and two - played from February and during finals, with the first five rounds to be played between teams that are geographically close to each other to avoid unnecessary cross-town travel. A start date of 30 January is the latest the season would start.

If there are no interruptions to the season, the Premier Cricket grand final will be held on the weekend of 17 and 18 April.

For the men’s third and fourth XIs, scheduling will be reviewed with the potential for one-day matches only this season.

In terms of the women’s competition, separate T20 and one-day competitions will only take place in scenarios one, two and three, with 31 January the latest the season would start.

Women’s third XI scheduling will be reviewed and developed with input from the women’s panel.

At this stage, the women’s grand final is scheduled for 28 March - barring any delays in the season start.

The Vic Super Slam - which has been played to great success so far - will be finalised once a clear understanding of a start date is known, however should the season not be able to start by 7 November, Cricket Victoria will review whether the competition will take place at all this season. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Pakenham Racing Club CEO Blair Odgers and general manager of commercial and racing Wade Calderwood at the newly-renamed ‘Sportsbet Pakenham’ racecourse, following the announcement of a five-year partnership with the world’s largest corporate bookmaker, Sportsbet.

Signed, sealed, delivered The Pakenham Racing Club (PRC) continues to develop as one of Australia’s most innovative clubs, expanding its partnership with wagering provider Sportsbet with a new five-year deal that includes the naming rights to Australia’s newest racecourse in Tynong - what is now

known as ‘Sportsbet Pakenham’.

Speaking on the partnership, PRC chief executive Blair Odgers stated that “shared values to innovate and entertain have seen this partnership prosper in recent years, with the growth of our unique Thursday night racing program, and the Pakenham Cup reaching

QUIZ NUMBER 1725 1. WHAT was unusual about 1932 Olympic Games women’s 100 metres gold medallist Stella Walsh?

2. WHAT unique golfing record is held by former NASA astronaut Captain Alan Shepherd?

3. WHAT is the maximum possible snooker break?

4. WHAT did the 1977 VFL and Sydney rugby league grand finals have in common?

5. WHAT did Nelson Mandela wear to the rugby union World Cup final in 1995?

6. WHO was top scorer for Australia in the 2015 World Cup cricket final?

7. IN which sport did John Sumegi win a silver medal at the 1980 Moscow Olympics?

8. HOW many innings does each side have in a senior baseball match?

9. WHICH Australian batsman suffered a broken jaw in cricket’s 1977 Centenary Test?

10. WHO won the French Open tennis title and finished runner-up in the Australian Open in 2012?

11. HOW many medals did the United States’ Carl Lewis win at the 1984 Olympics?

12. WHO rode Green Moon to victory in the 2012 Melbourne Cup? 13. ONE of the world’s best known goalkeepers was the subject of a soccer bribery scandal in 1995. Who is he?

14. WHAT milestone did Joe Darling post for left-handed cricketers in 1897-8?

15. WHICH Australian boxer in 1954 became the first world champion to retire undefeated?

16. WHAT is the equivalent of the ball in ice hockey?

17. WHICH famous golf course is the home of the Royal and Ancient Club in Scotland?

18. WHICH jockey was most commonly associated with Phar Lap? 19. IN which US state is Newport, where Australia recorded its epic 1983 America’s Cup victory?

20. WHO bowled cricket’s infamous underarm delivery against New Zealand in 1981?

ANSWERS: 1. After her death, an autopsy revealed she was a man 2. He hit the first golf shot on the moon 3. 147 4. Both finished in a tie 5. A South African jersey 6. Michael Clarke 7. Canoeing 8. Nine 9. Rick McCosker 10. Rafael Nadal 11. Four 12. Brett Prebble 13. Bruce Grobbelaar 14. He became the first left-hander to score a Test century. 15. Jimmy Carruthers 16. The puck 17. St. Andrew’s 18. Jimmy Pike 19. Rhode Island 20. Trevor Chappell

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

metropolitan status.

“Sportsbet have been pivotal in that success and, as we expand our partnership, we will continue to innovate and promote racing and training at Sportsbet Pakenham.

“As we progress into the next five years with our principle partner, we aim to introduce new racing and wagering offerings that will realise benefits for both the members and guests oncourse, as well as punters wagering from afar through Sportsbet’s leading technology.”

Odgers also touched on how the current climate is affecting the sport, and the club.

“It’s been a hugely challenging year for our stakeholders, members, and racing fans, so to secure our largest ever sponsorship during this period, it gives us great confidence that racing at Sportsbet Pakenham will prosper in the years ahead.”

Sportsbet’s chief marketing officer Mark Migliorini said the company is “thrilled to expand on our fantastic relationship with the Pakenham Racing Club”.

“The PRC shares our passion and ambition for finding new ways to innovate and add excitement to racing, and this partnership will give us the perfect foundation to achieve these goals,” he added.

“We’ll be hitting the ground running and launching a host of new and exciting concepts to racing at Pakenham, as soon as we’re al-

lowed out of home!”

The new five-year agreement began on 1 August, along with the rebranding of key oncourse assets.

The Sportsbet Pakenham Cup will be held on Saturday, 5 December 2020, while Sportsbet Night Racing will take place on Thursday nights from mid-January to May in 2021.

Sportsbet Pakenham hosts just the one race meeting between the end of this month, and Oaks Day on 5 November - that being on Friday, 16 October.

Each season, Pakenham Racing Club race dates decrease markedly at the end of August as the focus shifts to the big Spring features.

The PRC’s general manager of commercial and racing Wade Calderwood explained that “we use the down-time to freshen the turf track in readiness for Pakenham Cup day. We (along with Ballarat) take a bulk of the winter racing, so the break works well”.

There will be no race at Sportsbet Pakenham in September, and one Friday night meeting in October (on the 16th), before Pakenham Oaks Day - a twilight meeting on Thursday, 5 November. There will be racing at the venue on two other Thursday nights in November, before the standalone Sportsbet Pakenham Cup on Saturday, 5 December.

There will then be another rest for the turf track, before Thursday night racing resumes in earnest from mid-January 2021.

Pin pulled on Super Series

By Nick Creely

12456516-DL32-20

By sports editor Russell Bennett

AFL Victoria has advised that the 2020 VFLW Super Series will not proceed, following a meeting with VFLW clubs and stakeholders earlier in the week.

With the Victorian State Government declaring a State of Disaster and with stage four restrictions for metropolitan Melbourne to be in place until at least 13 September, AFL Victoria conceded that it would be too great a challenge to stage a Super Series, which was slated to begin in September in place of a regular VFLW season.

The AFL’s head of talent pathways and state league competitions, Tristan Salter, said the decision was made following the announcement by the Victorian State Government.

“All levels of the game across Victoria have been impacted by the health pandemic this year and the stage four restrictions have made it incredibly difficult to hold the rebel Super Series for VFLW players,” he explained.

“We acknowledge this is very disappointing news for the players, coaches, officials, volunteers and fans who were preparing for the new rebel Super Series, and commend the players for their perseverance during 2020.

“Ultimately, the safety and well-being of each person involved in the VFLW, along with the safety of the Victorian community, remains paramount.”

With the decision likely to have a significant impact on VFLW clubs and exposure ahead of the 2020 AFLW National Draft, AFL Victoria will continue to explore options to help provide mature age talent with exposure through remote interviews and testing, similar to a traditional national combine.

The AFL has also stated its commitment to the development and progression of women’s football across all levels of football in Australia and will now work towards the 2021 AFL Women’s Competitions with the 14 AFLW clubs.

Thursday, 6 August, 2020

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STAR NEWS 23

St Clare’s Catholic Primary School, Officer

Enrol now for As a rela�vely young school, St Clare’s has developed an outstanding reputa�on in the local community for providing a quality schooling experience, developing the whole student, based on the living mo�o of the School:

Our faith leads to wisdom and courage.

This mo�o is the energising source of all that happens at St Clare’s and is embedded in the ethos of the school, the curriculum we offer and the rela�onships we develop within our school and wider communi�es.

Founda�on 2021 Contact the school on 5940 6777 for informa�on

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If you are reading this as a prospec�ve student, parent, guardian or family, I invite you to visit us at St Clare’s and discover this dynamic learning environment and start the beginning of, what I hope will be, a life-long learning partnership.

Helen Staindl School Principal

Enrolments now open for 2021!

24 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 6 August, 2020

St Clare’s Primary School Officer 95 Majes�c Drive (PO Box 362) Officer 3809 Phone 03 5940 6777 Email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au