News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 17th September 2020

PAKENHAM OFFICER

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Thursday, 17 September, 2020

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Aziz speaks out on ‘lifesaving’ surgery

Pipeline pressure mounting

You beauty!

Therapists get the green light

Bigger and better for the Lions

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Kids get back in the swing of things Jude getting back into the swing of things now playgrounds are back open around the district. Turn to pages 19 and 21 to see more pictures of children enjoying their new-found freedom to play. 215446 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Syringe hold-up In a letter written by O’Doherty to Judge Dalziel, he said he realised what he did was “very wrong” and “promised not to steal or commit an offence like this again”.

“I accept that you understand what you did was wrong and that you are sorry for it,” Judge Dalziel said in court.

In sentencing O’Doherty, Judge Dalziel took into account his guilty plea early on, in March, as well as a range of other factors including his mental health.

He was sentenced to eight months imprisonment, with a 12 month community corrections order.

O’Doherty had already served eight months and one day of pre-sentence detention.

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card, to carry in her handbag.

While in Richmond, he and the woman injected heroin together.

The court was told O’Doherty said it was the first time he had used heroin in many years.

Some time later, the woman fled, taking his wallet with her.

Stranded in Richmond with no money, O’Doherty resorted to holding up a petrol station.

The court heard O’Doherty stated he intended on using the stolen money for food and a train ticket.

Judge Dalziel acknowledged he had a “good childhood in a stable home with loving parents” in Pakenham.

Since 1989

A Pakenham man has been sentenced to jail and a one year community corrections order for an armed hold up at a service station late last year.

In the Victorian County Court, Rodney O’Doherty pleaded guilty to a charge of attempted armed robbery.

The court heard the 44-year-old threatened a Coles Express service station employee in Richmond using a syringe that was filled halfway with blood, about 7.10am on Friday 20 December.

Judge Frances Dalziel informed the court O’Doherty demanded that the cashier handed him $100, “or I will stab you with the needle”.

Shortly after the incident occurred, O’Doherty was arrested by police at Richmond Railway Station.

He was then remanded in custody and has remained on remand since.

Judge Dalziel noted the cashier said in his statement, “I don’t even remember how I felt - I was in a little bit of shock.”

The court heard O’Doherty’s explanation for the offending was that he was homeless at the time, sleeping rough around the Dandenong area.

The night before the attempted armed robbery, he had met a woman and travelled to Richmond with her.

On the way, O’Doherty gave the woman his wallet, which contained $200 cash and a Myki

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By Jessica Anstice

NEWS

Sam’s ‘lifesaving’ surgery

By Brendan Rees Besieged former Casey mayor Sam Aziz says he’s lucky to be alive after undergoing an operation to remove a rare cancerous gland at a Sydney hospital.

In a Facebook post on 9 September, Mr Aziz said the almost seven hour operation to remove an “extremely rare cancer” at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital had been successful.

It comes after Mr Aziz posted to his Facebook page just days before the operation saying he had been rushed to intensive care after flying into Sydney from overseas three weeks ago, where he had remained since.

“I regret to advise that in addition to the two heart failures I suffered last year, I have now been diagnosed with an extremely rare cancer Pheochromocytosis and will undertake surgery this week to remove it,” he wrote.

“It is a cancer that sits above adrenal glands (located at the top of each kidney) and apparently affects one in every million human beings! It is extremely dangerous and in my case it is causing my body to produce 7 x the adrenaline of a healthy person!

“As my specialist said, it is a miracle that I am still alive.

“I wasn’t making up my health problems as some people so cruelly and ignorantly accused me of doing.”

Mr Aziz is a ‘person of interest’ regarding an ongoing Independent Broad-based Anticorruption Commission, where it is alleged he had dealings with a developer, however, he flew to Egypt last October just before the hearings began.

Last month an IBAC spokesperson confirmed the watchdog was aware of the recent return to Australia of Mr Aziz who remained a focus of IBAC’s Operation Sandon, “an ongoing investigation into allegations of corruption concerning Casey Council”.

In a court document filed by his lawyers earlier this year it claimed Mr Aziz had ongoing health conditions including a chronic heart condition, diabetes and mental health concerns which had delayed his return to Australia.

In his recent Facebook post Mr Aziz also hit out at the media for “peddling rubbish and destroying reputations”.

“No-one can ever deny the proud legacy I left in the fact that the City of Casey became a much better city and government than the one that I came into for the first time in 2008,” he wrote.

“For the record: I never took a bribe. Not one cent of the $900,000 that has been alleged and thrown around maliciously by the media all along!

“I fully cooperated with the IBAC investigation before I left and more still, IBAC knew I was travelling and never advised me not to travel or take any action to stop me!”

He conceded his trip to Egypt “was not an escape” but a “pursuit of a genuine and new exciting work opportunity”.

“I did not sell my house to flee to Egypt.

That house was a secondary property, not my main residence, and I sold it for both family and financial reasons, as people sometimes need to do!”

He continued to say in his Facebook post that his return to Australia was “genuine”, and that “Australia is my home and I will always love it with all my heart”.

IBAC’s public hearings have been adjourned until further notice due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Former Casey mayor Sam Aziz has undergone surgery at a Sydney hospital to remove a cancerous gland. 174253

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NEWS

Pipeline pressure mounts

By Brendan Rees A prominent environmental group has added its voice to a rallying cry to oppose a controversial gas pipeline project that proposes to cut through properties in Casey and Cardinia.

The Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Foundation, a not-for-profit group, has opposed energy giant AGL’s proposal to build a 57-kilometre pipeline to Pakenham, saying marine and terrestrial life along with regional communities “would have to bear the costs”, which it deemed “unacceptable”.

The project also proposes to build a liquefied natural gas floating storage unit at Crib Point jetty - which is touted as a solution to meet a predicted shortfall in gas supply by 2024.

Under the plans, about 14.3km of the pipeline would impact properties in Clyde, Cannons Creek, Devon Meadows, Pearcedale and Tooradin, which farmers have signalled would pose environmental effects.

The Foundation’s chair Jo McCoy said it was important project such as this were “subjected to real scrutiny” and the environment of Western Port cannot be “treated lightly” after it found “short-comings and misrepresentations” in response to AGL and APA Group’s recently released Environment Effects Statement (EES) for the project, which was made at the direction of the Planning Minister and details the range of potential impacts on vegetation, wildlife, marine life and Aboriginal heritage.

“Quite apart from investing in a fossil fuel project rather than renewables in the first place, a huge gas-filled ship permanently moored in the middle of an internationally protected Ramsar wetland is not a good idea,” Ms McCoy said.

John Counsell, a 76-year-old Harkaway resident, who has a life-long affiliation with the Western Port, said the Western Port “must not be put at risk of becoming collateral damage”.

The veteran sailor who docked at Flinders following a 13-month voyage from England with his wife in 1977, said he had concerns the project would impact the “healthy, relatively pristine surrounds” of the Western Port.

Last month Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors voted to oppose the project saying it “poses an unacceptable risk to the environment for unproven economic and resource gains”.

Cardinia Shire Council also opposed the EES in its current form after the community wasn’t “adequately consulted”.

The issue was discussed at Casey Council’s 18 August meeting, where council administrator Cameron Boardman accused Mornington Peninsula Shire of being “quite irresponsible” in its submission, saying it contained a “complete absence” of any “reason or rational of why the project is going ahead” - which was in “complete contrast” to Casey’s submission which took a more “holistic” approach.

Casey Council’s submission, which was endorsed at the meeting, said although it “has no stated position on the efficacy or justification of the proposed project at this stage” it did recommend that a “no build option” be considered after citing “several concerns”.

This included the overall rationale of the project, impacts to landowners, land and ma-

Harkaway resident and veteran sailor John Counsell says the proposed pipeline poses potential risks to the Western Port’s ecosystems and tourism.

214122 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

A map of the proposed pipeline’s land use.

Picture: GAS IMPORT JETTY AND PIPELINE PROJECT

A conceptual visualisation of transfer of gas from a floating storage regasification unit to Crib Point receiving facility via marine loading arms and gas piping.

Picture: GAS IMPORT JETTY AND PIPELINE PROJECT

rine environment, agricultural land within the green wedge, and greenhouse gas emissions.

The proposed project also threatened fauna such as Southern Brown Bandicoot and Growling Grass Frog within the Western Port Green Wedge in Casey, the report said.

Mr Boardman said by drafting a report that provides “factual evidence” and “looks clearly from the viewpoint” of all issues raised in the EES following extensive community consulta-

tion, “I think that balance has been achieved quite nicely”.

According to the EES statement, two pipeline alignment variants were assessed between Crib Point and APA’s Dandenong South LNG Facility but “further investigation and field verification identified this corridor as highly constrained, due to the pattern of development, urban growth and industrial subdivision in these areas”.

Meanwhile, Hastings Liberal MP Neale Bur-

gess has called on the Planning Minister to reverse his decision not to extend the current public exhibition period of the EES. “Both stage-three and stage-four lockdowns have made it impossible for residents to meet face to face and hold working groups or public meetings to discuss this enormous and complex EES,” he said.

Casey Council will present the issues raised in their submission at an inquiry and advisory committee public hearing starting 12 October.

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NEWS

Cardinia’s cruelty shame

By Mitchell Clarke The number of animal cruelty complaints in the Cardinia Shire has decreased since last year, however the “concerning” figures reveal the number of beaten, wounded and abandoned animals has risen.

A total of 284 animal cruelty reports were made to RSPCA Victoria in 2019-20, a decrease from 351 reports in 2018-19.

From Cardinia’s total number, 169 complaints were in relation to animals being left with insufficient food, water or shelter; 97 complaints about hygiene, grooming and housing conditions; 77 for sick and injured animals not receiving vet treatment, and 60 reports for underweight animals.

A further 33 calls were made to the RSPCA regarding concerns about animals being beaten or wounded, while 26 complaints were made about abandoned animals across the Shire.

Last year, the RSPCA received 20 complaints relating to concerns about animals being beaten or wounded, and were made aware of 18 instances of abandoned animals.An RSPCA spokeswoman said other types of cruelty reports were made in the Cardinia Shire, but the nature of those incidents have not yet been made publicly available. She added that one reported incident could often include more than one concern.

Nearby, the City of Casey recorded a whopping 581 complaints, the highest of any local government area in the state.

RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker said she was “disappointed and concerned” about the welfare of Victorian animals.

“I am disheartened to see the overwhelming issue continues to be neglect, indicating many animals in Victoria are not receiving the most basic standard of care, such as sufficient food, water and shelter,” she said.

“It is heartbreaking to know so many ani-

A total of 284 animal cruelty reports were made to the RSPCA Victoria in 2019-20, a decrease from 351 reports in 2018-19. mals continue to suffer across our state due to a lack of basic care and these statistics clearly illustrate the need for our Inspectorate’s important work.”

In 2019-20, RSPCA Victoria Inspectors laid 120 charges against 44 people, issued 492 compliance notices and finalised 51 prosecutions.

At the end of the financial year, 62 cases were still before the courts.

Welfare concerns for dogs, cats and hors-

es continued to make up the majority of the 10,745 cruelty reports, with 6723 relating to dogs and puppies alone.

The RSPCA is preparing for a spike in animal welfare concerns due to the Covid-19 pandemic, when the economic impacts become evident.

Dr Walker urged the community to report any animal cruelty and neglect concerns to the RSPCA.

Picture: PEXELS

“Unfortunately we know that cruelty continues and that Victoria’s animals need us to continue our work to end animal cruelty, so I encourage people to continue reporting to our Inspectorate,” she said.

“Without the caring Victorians who take animal welfare seriously and make the time to report cruelty to our Inspectorate, many animals in need would go without the care and attention they deserve.”

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NEWS

Crop sitter cops jail term

By Jessica Anstice A Pakenham man will join his co-offender in jail after police uncovered a “sophisticated” crop house with more than 60kg of cannabis growing in his rental home.

Phat Duong, along with co-offender Nhu Ho Ai Dinh, pleaded guilty for cultivating cannabis and stealing electricity when police raided their Salvia Avenue property on 30 October last year.

As a result of the search warrant, police located 36 cannabis plants growing in three seperate rooms, Victorian County Court Judge George Georgiou told the court.

In total, the crops weighed 64 kilograms which is almost three times the legal commercial amount.

The court heard an electrical bypass system was found to be installed in the main bedroom of the house.

Following the police raid, an electrician measured the energy in use at 32.48 amps, while the meter only recorded 4.23 amps in use.

It was later revealed that Duong was not the prime organiser of the crop house operation.

“It was submitted but not disputed that you were to receive some of the proceeds from the sale of the cannabis,” Judge Georgiou said.

It is understood the reason Duong became

involved in the cultivation was to “make a bit of money”, the court heard.

As the 35-year-old was not the prime organiser of the operation, he was charged on a single-day only basis - the day police uncovered the crop house.

“I accept that you were not the organiser of the crop and there is no evidence to suggest that your role was anything other than that of a crop sitter,” Judge Georgiou said.

“Nevertheless, the role of a crop sitter is an important one - enabling cannabis cultivation and trafficking enterprises to succeed at shielding those higher up from the risk of detection.”

In sentencing, Judge Georgiou said he found Duong to be “genuinely remorseful”.

Judge Georgiou also acknowledged the fact he has no previous convictions and the references provided showed he is a person of “otherwise good character” with “very good” prospects of rehabilitation.

Duong was sentenced to two years’ jail with a one year non-parole period on 11 September.

However he has already served 91 days of pre-sentence detention.

Co-offender Dinh was sentenced to two years’ jail with a one year non-parole period on 22 July.

Elderly residents left out of crossing project loop

By Mitchell Clarke

Police spoke to a 21-year-old Officer man, whose probationary licence was suspended due to demerit points.

Erratic drivers nabbed

By Jessica Anstice

Large concrete beams are installed at Cardinia Road level crossing.

Large mail outs sent through Australia Post can often take up to a month to arrive, meaning the material could often be outdated by the time it got to the resident.

Ms Crugnale added that she was not aware of mass electorate material being sent from Labor MPs. She said brochures with Covid-19 information were letterbox dropped in June, prior to Stage 4 restrictions.

“I send out a personalised welcome letter to people who are new to the area or the electoral roll. This is done every few months, the last being around mid August,” she explained.

“In terms of electorate wide mail outs, I have not done any since early June.”

Residents without internet access can contact the Level Crossings Contact Centre on 1800 105 105.

Officers from Cardinia Highway Patrol have been working tirelessly through the coronavirus lockdown to remove unauthorised drivers from the roads.

A 27-year-old Officer woman was intercepted by Highway Patrol police officers about 8.55am on Wednesday 9 September.

Police detected the driver, in a blue Kia Cerato, travelling at 101km/h in an 80km/h zone on Princes Highway in Officer.

The woman was observed driving erratically and tailgating other vehicles.

Licence checks revealed the driver had a suspended licence due to drug driving.

She underwent a further drug test and tested positive to an illicit substance.

Her vehicle was immediately impounded for a period of 30 days and she will be required to attend court.

Later that day, about 12.05pm, Highway Patrol officers intercepted a Holden Astra for a routine licence and registration check on Henty Street in Pakenham.

Licence checks revealed the 19-year-old Pakenham driver had never held a drivers licence in his life.

Our offices continue to be available during Stage 4 restrictions providing you with the extra support you may need.

The woman was observed driving erratically and tailgating other vehicles.

His vehicle was immediately impounded for 30 days and he will be required to face court at a later date.

An hour later, at 1.05pm, police officers intercepted a Holden Commodore on Majestic Drive in Officer.

They spoke to a 21-year-old Officer man, whose probationary licence was suspended due to demerit points.

As a result of having a suspended licence, his vehicle was immediately impounded for a period of 30 days.

In a statement released to the community, Pakenham police said unlicensed and other unauthorised drivers pose a significant risk to road and community safety.

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Critical works to remove the congested Cardinia Road and Clyde Road level crossings has continued throughout Stage 4, however vital mailed out project information has been deemed non-essential.

According to the Level Crossing Removal Project, printed works notices and information can’t be delivered through the mail, despite claims that Labor MPs were still delivering electorate newsletters to letterboxes during Stage 4 restrictions.

Liberal Gembrook MP Brad Battin said it was “vital” that residents received up to date information on the progress of the project and interruptions caused to their local streets regardless of restrictions.

Mr Battin said it was “very concerning” for elderly residents who didn’t have access to internet, particularly those living in aged care facilities near the Clyde Road project.

“It is a disgrace that the elderly and most vulnerable in our community will not be updated on service interruptions or changes to the project during Stage 4 restrictions,” he said.

“Mail is able to be delivered at this time and it is a disgrace the Andrews Labor Government are using Covid-19 as an excuse to not provide important updates to those in the local community who will be most affected by the project and its construction.”

It’s understood Mr Battin will write to the relevant Minister in a bid to ensure that anyone bordering the project is contacted via mail.

Labor Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said letterbox drops and door knocks had been paused but would continue as soon as the expert health advice allowed it.

“We have increased our public messaging on electronic signs and posters around project sites to keep locals informed of all works and disruptions,” Ms Crugnale said.

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STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

New schools get their name

LENSCAPE

The name of two new schools opening in Cardinia Shire in 2021 have officially been announced.

Pakenham’s new secondary school will be known as Edenbrook Secondary College, while Officer’s new primary school will be called Orchard Park Primary School.

Both schools are among 14 new State Government schools set to open in 2021.

Edenbrook Secondary College, which was formerly known by its interim name of Pakenham Henry Road Secondary School, will include a visual arts building, a science, technology, engineering and maths building, and two outdoor play courts.

Orchard Park Primary School, formerly known as Timbertop Primary School, will include two learning neighbourhoods, an administration building, outdoor play courts, a performing arts and physical education building, an arts, science and food technology building, and a sports field.

The names were chosen following community consultation and discussions with Geographic Names Victoria, with consideration given to factors including public interest, relevance to the local area, and the consideration of local indigenous languages.

“Two new schools for two growing areas, I am really thrilled we are that little step closer to hearing the opening school bell, welcoming foundation students and bringing together a whole new school community,” Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said.

“We are proud to be delivering this new school for students in Cardinia Shire and look forward to Orchard Park Primary School becoming an important part of the community,” Eastern Victoria MP Harriet Shing said.

Education Minister James Merlino said naming each school marked a milestone in establishing their identity in the community.

Construction at Edenbrook Secondary College.

208885 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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The Covid-19 pandemic has meant that this year has been a tumultuous one for many of us, and even more so for those who work in education and health.

As Vice-Chancellor and President of Federation University Australia, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the education and health providers who have exceeded all expectations to make this year’s placement program a huge success in this challenging climate.

Our local schools, kindergartens, childcare centres, hospitals, aged care facilities and medical centres have played a crucial role in offering student placements to our future health care workers and educators in order to give them the vital skills they will carry throughout their careers.

During a year of uncertainty and change, this has not always been easy. Staff at healthcare and education providers across Victoria have gone to significant lengths to ensure Federation University students could complete their placements.

Not only have they adjusted to changes in their own day-to-day roles, but they have also offered what students tell me have been exemplary experiences in their chosen fields.

Teachers who were adapting to their own online lessons, provided our students with crucial experience presenting live maths and literacy sessions, engaging with students where possible, and using a range of different teaching platforms.

Thumbs Down!

To the person driving on the wrong side of the road down Sladen Street on Friday with police chasing them, you nearly slammed into my friend’s car who had picked up my children up from school, they thought they were going to die!

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Thank you for supporting our essential workers of tomorrow

Similarly, nurses and other health staff offered invaluable experience to students while also adapting to the significant changes of their own workplaces and roles.

All of this occurred alongside new social distancing and travel requirements, stringent hygiene processes and screening measures designed to ensure the safety of students, staff and the community.

As a result of the commitment of healthcare and education providers, in collaboration with Federation, most students across Berwick, Gippsland, Horsham and Ballarat campuses were fortunate to have been able to complete their placements. Where that was not possible, health services and education providers are continuing to work with us to accommodate any outstanding placements.

I am in no doubt of the crucial part educators and healthcare staff - our essential workers - play in our community. While many of us were confined to our homes, these individuals continued to care for and educate the most vulnerable members of our community with grace and determination.

At Federation, we are incredibly grateful to all of those who have made it possible for the essential workers of tomorrow to complete the placements that will ensure they can confidently and effectively take their places in the workforce of the future.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!

Professor Duncan Bentley, Vice Chancellor and President of Federation University Australia

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Covid detail needed Over recent months I have been tracking the Covid cases in Casey by post code.

I have been impressed by the transparent details that are published in both Queensland and NSW when cases have occurred as they publish specific locations of likely infection “hot spots”.

I believe it would be in the interests of our ratepayers to have more detailed information showing specific locations of “hot spots” within the city.

If people are aware of the specific location of infections and timing and dates of such infections they can go get tested.

In Colac, the local community is jumping on the issue and the source of most cases have been traced locally.

The required information must be available at State Government level and we should be made aware of all the specific details pertaining to Casey. There has been significant activity in Hallam over recent days which is concerning but any activity in our wards should be made available to residents.

The City of Casey Council could take the initiative here and press for this information and disseminate it.

Reg Rowswell, City of Casey

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Thumbs Up! For all the police trying to handle the protesters

Thumbs Down!

To Dan Andrews and the suffering he has caused Victoria after the hotel quarantine debacle!

Thumbs Up! To L’Arte Central Cafe in Cranbourne East. Amazing bunch of people making so many in the community shine with their food, flowers, coffee and surprise pay it forwards

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To our Berwick neighbors who go away every weekend and more to their holiday house since lockdown began. So selfish!.

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For the selfish unbelievable protesters. It didn’t look like the Australia we know and love on the news.

Thumbs Up Thumbs Down is your chance to have your say. Malicious or defamatory submissions will not be accepted. All submissions must include a full name address and daytime phone number. Contributions over the phone will not be accepted. Contributors will not be identified. The Star News reserves the right to edit submissions.

To submit a Thumbs Up Thumbs Down email to dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au fax to 5945 0777 or post to P.O. Box 9 Pakenham 3810.

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NEWS

You beauty! Salons open

By Mitchell Clarke Pakenham beauty therapists were thrilled with the announcement they could be able to reopen a month earlier than expected.

Premier Daniel Andrews announced over the weekend that Melbourne’s beauty services can now open when the city enters its third step in recovery - which could be from 26 October, if case targets are met.

“Beauty and personal services, where a mask can be worn for the entire time the person is getting of the services that they are accessing, will be able to proceed in the third step, alongside hairdressers,” Mr Andrews said.

The beauty industry was previously told they couldn’t reopen until 23 November, which fuelled fury among those prominent in the industry.

Local sole traders Tylar-Ann Pearl, from Unreal Artistry, and Codie Edwards, from Be Miss Beauty, both launched petitions pleading for the dates to be reassessed.

Ms Pearl welcomed the Premier’s announcement, stating it was a relief to finally get “the fairness that we deserve”.

“It definitely is a bit of a relief that all our hard work and effort that we put in to getting our message out there was actually heard,” she said.

“We’ve just been given the fairness that we

Beauty therapist Tylar-Ann Pearl is excited to reopen. 214879 deserve. My whole career has been classed as hair and beauty, so it’s just nice that the Premier has opened his eyes and recognised us.”

Ms Pearl said she was lucky that her service

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

wouldn’t be affected by mandatory masks, however some beauty therapists - particularly those specialising in facials - won’t be able to operate.

“I can have customers wear their masks while I’m doing their lashes,” she explained.

“I’m just excited to see my clients and find out what they’ve been up to, not that they’ve been up to much, but I think it’s going to be a massive stress and mental relief for both my clients and myself.

“I don’t think I’ll be able to truly explain the feeling that a woman gets after a treatment ...

You just feel really well groomed and cleaned.”

It’s still unknown if Ms Pearl is eligible for any form of sole trader grants, but her main focus is getting back to work.

“It’ll be nice to have my own financial stability again. Everyone’s just so excited to start again and get back to doing what we love,” she said.

“It’ll be interesting to see if they can offer anything for sole traders who don’t have a shop front. I feel like they’ve got so many grants for people in the CBD, it’s almost like they’ve forgotten about us on the outskirts.

“We may not be paying rent on a shop, but we’re still paying rent at home and we’re going to need help to purchase our products again.”

Ms Pearl has decided to not take bookings until a concrete reopening date has been announced, but she can be contacted via Instagram at unreal.artistry or www.unrealartistry. com.au.

Pet plea, mobile groomers unfairly deemed ‘not safe’

By Mitchell Clarke A Pakenham pet groomer is pleading with the Premier to allow mobile services to operate, after the State Government back flipped and allowed salon based groomers to open a month early.

From 28 September, all salon based services can reopen, however mobile services like Pakenham based Purrfectly Pawsome can’t return to work until 26 October.

“It must be a venue, it can’t be a mobile pet grooming business ... Mobile was not judged to be safe at this time by the public health experts,” Premier Daniel Andrews said during a press conference on Saturday 12 September.

Purrfectly Pawsome’s Bianca Henderson said the revised decision didn’t make any sense.

“It’s like they’d prefer to have 20 people travelling to one person rather than one person travelling to 20 people,” Ms Henderson said.

“It’s stupid as we are less risk.”

Last week, the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA) called for the roadmap out of lockdown to address and ensure the welfare of domestic animals.

“The PIAA is gravely concerned for the welfare of domestic animals in Pakenham and surrounds given the extension of the Stage 4 restrictions,” PIAA national president Barry Codling said.

Ms Henderson operates across the Cardinia Shire and has implemented a zero contact service since March, but she was forced to fully close at the start of Stage 4.

“I don’t care about the money, whatsoever, it’s literally about watching my customers suffer. It’s really distressing. I have so many clients with old pets that deserve to be kept clean and decent in their final days,” she explained.

“If we aren’t allowed to operate until 26 October then it’s going to mean death for many of our clients pets, whether it’s from heat stroke, injuries or sickness.

“Pet grooming is not a vanity issue. It’s far from it, this is a welfare issue. Animals can’t move freely or wee and poo freely without being restricted. They deserve to be comfortable.”

Many of Ms Henderson’s clients are on regular schedules every one to eight weeks and have been for years.

She said clients felt the restrictions were “ridiculous” and that the State Government had little concern for animal welfare.

“They are frightened they are going to inpakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

The Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA) is calling on the Victorian Government to ensure the welfare of our domestic animals is considered in Victoria’s roadmap out of Stage 4 lockdown.

Pictures: SHUTTERSTOCK

Initially there was widespread confusion about the services that could operate. jure their pets while trying to home groom them,” she explained.

“They are concerned for their pets wellbeing and health. Many clients are in a state of despair looking at their pets who are unfortunately the ones suffering most in this 12 week shut down.”

Liberal Gembrook MP Brad Battin said many industries wanted major changes to the roadmap out of lockdown.

Bianca Henderson’s mobile grooming service can’t open, despite salon services being allowed to operate.

“The change for dog grooming ignores the hundreds of small businesses and sole operators who could offer a 100 per cent contact-

free mobile service,” Mr Battin said.

“Why does Daniel Andrews and Labor always have to choose winners and losers?”

Thursday, 17 September, 2020

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STAR NEWS 7

NEWS

A walk in natural beauty The completion of the walking path around the Kaduna Park wetlands at Officer South couldn’t have come at a better time for residents whose exercise options are limited by the stage 4 Covid restrictions.

Kaduna Park locals can now enjoy the natural beauty of the estate’s 6 hectare wetlands thanks to the 1.5km walking path and bridge.

The path circles the wetlands, which play an important part in Melbourne Water’s ongoing quest to improve the health of Port Phillip Bay. President of the Kaduna Park Residents Group Siggy Rehburg said the finished path added to Kaduna Park’s liveability.

“The path is great for people to take their kids and animals for exercise. The wetlands are lovely with ducks just starting to come in.

Walking around it you really do feel you are out in the country,” Mr Rehburg said.

“The path and bridge are a good place to gather your thoughts and enjoy the peaceful outlook.”

Mr Rehburg said he hoped plantings at the southern end of the wetlands would eventually attract different species of birds and wildlife to the area to complement the ducks, geese and frogs that already live there.

“We can hear frogs in the wetlands from our place which is really cool.”

The specially constructed wetlands connect diverse species of native plants and animals while also filtering pollutants like oils and litter from stormwater.

Water is directed from Gum Scrub Creek to the wetlands allowing litter, sediment and other pollutants to settle to the bottom where it is filtered by micro-organisms and algae that grow on plants.

After water has spent one to three days in

The 1.5km path includes a bridge for viewing the wetlands. the wetlands, cleaner water is released back into the creek helping reduce algal blooms in Port Phillip Bay. Marketing manager Jarod Mills said the team at Parklea was delighted to be able to complete the wetlands and footpath so early in the development of Kaduna Park.

“We felt it was important for residents that

the proposed works to complete the path around the wetlands were expedited. We are also working to finalise landscaping works in this area and initiating discussions around other potential improvements,” Mr Mills said.

Mr Rehburg said he had seen wetlands developed at other estates, but none matched the beauty of those at Kaduna Park.

“This is much nicer, particularly because this one has a country feel which is good.

Walking round back of (the wetlands) you feel well away from suburbia and houses.

“Kaduna Park is marketed as having a country feel and when you are out enjoying the wetlands it strikes you that you really are in the country.”

FOCUS ON … TAX TIME

Tax tips for students If you are a student, lodging an income tax return may seem a bit daunting. Parents who may be helping can also find it challenging.

JobKeeper brought a boost to many casual workers by increasing their income to $750 per week and students should remember that this income is subject to tax.

CPA Australia’s tax policy adviser Elinor Kasapidis said that “while studying is probably your highest priority, many students take on part-time work, including small cash jobs, or might receive government payments or scholarships to assist during their studies.

You might be more entrepreneurial and have started selling products or investing in financial assets on the side. Many forms of income come with tax consequences so it’s best to get advice if you’re unsure.

“You might also find that you have had tax

withheld from payments to you, so you’ll need to lodge a tax return to get any amounts that should be refunded back to you.”

Top 10 tax tips for students If you have had tax withheld from your salary or interest and your taxable income is below the tax-free threshold, lodge a return to get those amounts refunded back to you Set up your myGov account to access government services and get your income statement and superannuation information from your employer Identify all your sources of income, such as income from work including tips, investment returns, certain government payments, non-government scholarships, grants and awards, as well as distributions from family trusts or partnerships Report income and claim expenses from gig economy jobs. This can include income from running social media accounts or selling goods and services online Know your deductions, including work related expenses or self-education expenses.

Remember self-education must be directly related to your work and that HELP debt repayments are not deductible Remember that income can include payments you receive in tips, cryptocurrency and through barter transactions Report any gains or losses from cryptocurrencies, especially because the ATO is datamatching information received from digital exchanges Get your residency for tax purposes right as the tax rules are different to those used for immigration Check that you are getting your superannuation entitlements if you earn more than $450 per month or, if you are under 18 and you work more than 30 hours per week Consider the special rules related to tax if you are under 18, for income such as trust distributions, interest, dividends, rent and royalties.

· · ·

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Individual Tax Returns Property Investors Companies & Trusts Self Managed Super Funds Tax Returns Online

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NEWS

Premium dining at home

By Danielle Kutchel The team at MPD Steak Kitchen Berwick have used the lockdown to their advantage, coming up with ever more creative ways to bring their unique dining experience into homes across the south-east.

Led by executive chef Chris Bonello and restaurant manager Marcus Fabian, each week the team spends time brainstorming their new ideas.

The result is a swathe of new options that bring MPD’s famed food right to your own table.

According to Chris, the team was driven by the desire to “do something different” during Melbourne’s first lockdown earlier in the year.

They settled on a heat and eat concept something that still carries the premium restaurant experience, but is easy to finish off at home.

Diners are provided with instructions to finish off their dish, either in the oven or in a pot of boiling water.

Marcus has come up with four signature cocktail jugs that can also be ordered to complete the meal.

After the lockdown was eased, MPD opened back up to in-house guests - only to have to close their doors again when the second lockdown was announced.

With their food supplies already ordered, the restaurant decided to continue their heat and eat concept and add a new dimension to the menu in the form of ready-to-eat takeaway meals.

The whole menu was offered for either pick up or delivery by MPD staff within a 12.5 ki-

lometre radius, with customers now able to enjoy favourites like the butcher’s block and beef wellington from the comfort of their own home.

And it hasn’t stopped there.

This week, MPD is excited to launch their new gift shop, featuring a series of celebration packages perfect to order for a distant friend or family member, or to enjoy at home yourself.

A gentlemen’s pack, a lady’s pack and an anniversary pack will be the first on offer, each accompanied by perfectly tailored cocktails.

The men’s pack, for example, will contained an Old Fashioned, while the lady’s pack will include a Cosmopolitan and an apple and elderflower martini.

Marcus says the packs will make perfect gifts to let loved ones know you’re thinking of them during lockdown, with each one created with the freshest seasonal ingredients.

They will be available for delivery within a 35km radius.

The MPD Butcher’s Block.

Picture: SUPPLIED give these new concepts a go, ensuring that all staff still have their jobs.

“We’re making someone’s day by giving them the MPD experience at home. That’s the bonus on top,” he says.

MPD Steak Kitchen Berwick is open from 12pm until 8pm for delivery, and until 7.30 for pick up with lunch specials available from 12pm-3pm.

Find out more at www.mpdsteakkitchen. com

Diners need not be concerned about their food going cold over this distance; the team has invested in high-tech packaging to ensure your food stays as hot and delicious as it was when it left the kitchen.

“Quality is our number one priority,” Chris says.

Contactless pickup is available for those that live near the restaurant.

Chris says the support of the local community has been instrumental in allowing them to

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STAR NEWS 9

RECIPES

TASTY RUMP STEAK SANDWICH Looking to wheel the barbecue out for spring?

Why not try this quick and tasty rumpsteak sandwich, with beetroot relish, Ciabatta and tasty baby rocket leave straight from the garden.

For more tasty beef recipes head to australianbeef.com.au.

Ingredients 500g rump steak one large red onion cut in half and sliced 2tbsp olive oil ½ beetroot relish Ciabatta loaf sliced through the middle and quartered 80g baby rocket leaves two tomatoes sliced four slices of tasty cheese salt and cracked black pepper to taste

· · · · · · · · ·

Method 1. Preheat a barbecue flat-plate or chargrill pan to hot. Brush steaks with 1 tbsp olive oil, season with salt and pepper and cook for 2 - 3 minutes per side or until cooked to your liking. Remove steaks from heat and cover loosely with foil for 5 minutes.

2. While steaks are resting decrease heat to medium and cook onion with remaining olive oil on one side of the barbecue flat-plate, stirring, for 5 to 6 minutes or until softened and lightly golden. Toast ciabatta on the other side of the barbecue until toasted.

3. Trim cooked steaks of any excess fat and slice steaks thinly against the grain.

4. Spread relish across bread bases and top with rocket, tomato, cheese, sliced steak, onions and bread tops. Serve with a salad.

Tasty and quick this breakfast looks as good as it tastes.

Rump steak barbecued and cut thinly makes the perfect steak sandwhich. 215414

QUICK FRITTERS

AVOCADO CACAO ENERGY BARS

Quick and filling these zucchini fritters with Portabella mushrooms and poached egg are the perfect weekend breakfast or Sunday night meal.

With tasty halloumi cheese, green onions and cherry tomatoes it not only tastes great but looks pretty on the plate if you get a chance to have people over.

Looking for the perfect energy snack without all the nasties?

These Avocado-cacao energy bars are nutrient-rich and energy dense and perfect for a postworkout snack for those of us getting out and working on slimming down after winter!

Quick and easy to put together - this recipe created Australian Avocados uses Hass Avocadoes and will keep in the fridge in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

AVOCADO-CACAO ENERGY BARS Method 1. Lightly oil a 20cm square cake tin, then line with baking paper, allowing the paper to overhang the sides by a few centimetres (this will make it easier to lift the slice from the tin).

2. Pulse Hass avocado, dates, nuts and coconut oil in a food processor until smooth, scraping down the sides if necessary, until incorporated.

Add chia seeds, cacao powder and coconut, pulse to combine. Transfer to a bowl, add mixed seeds, cacao nibs and ½ tsp sea salt, mix well then press evenly into prepared tin. Smooth the top, scatter with a little extra coconut and press into the surface. Refrigerate overnight until firm.

3. Use the paper to lift the slice from the tin, then cut into bars and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

- Created by Australian Avocados

Prep time 15 mins Makes about 10 bars Ingredients Hass avocado, pitted, flesh scooped out · 1andlarge coarsely chopped · 250 gm (1 ½ cups) pitted dates mixed toasted nuts, such as almonds, pista· ¾chioscupand pecans, coarsely chopped · ¼ cup (60g) melted coconut oil · ½ cup chia seeds · ½ cup cacao powder · ½ cup coconut flakes, plus extra to sprinkle seeds, such as sunflower seeds, flax· ½seedcupandmixed pepitas · ¼ cup cacao nibs

ZUCCHINI FRITTERS WITH PORTABELLA MUSHROOMS AND POACHED EGG Prep: 10 mins Cook: 15 mins Serves: 4 Makes: 8 fritters

Avocado and Cacao Energy bars - all of the energy without the nasties.

GREEN GODDESS FRESHNESS The simplest things are often the best.

This fresh-as salad sandwich amps up the flavour stakes with a flavour-packed green goddess made even better by using creamy Hass avocado as the base, instead of the more common mayo.

Pile on your favourite crisp and crunchy salad ingredients, and of course, more avocado. You’ll be glad you did.

GREEN-IS-GOOD AVOCADO SALAD SANDWICHES Prep time 15 mins Makes 4 sandwiches 8 slices seeded sandwich or sourdough bread Ingredients 2 ripe Hass avocados, halved, stones removed, flesh scooped out and sliced ½ cup crumbled feta (about 80g) 1 Lebanese cucumber, thinly sliced ½ baby cos lettuce, leaves separated and coarsely torn ½cup baby spinach leaves ¼ cup mint leaves Lemon juice, to taste

· · · · · · ·

AVOCADO GREEN GODDESS DRESSING Ingredients ripe Hass avocados, halved, stones removed, flesh · 2scooped out and coarsely chopped · ½ cup each basil leaves and flat-leaf parsley leaves · Juice of 1 lemon · 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar · 1 spring onion, coarsely chopped · 1 garlic clove

Method 1.To make the green goddess dressing, blend ingredients in a food processor or blender until silky smooth, season to taste and set aside. Green goddess dressing will keep refrigerated in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

2.Spread half the bread slices thickly with green

goddess dressing, then top with sliced Hass avocado, feta, lettuce, baby spinach and mint leaves.

Squeeze over lemon juice, season to taste and sandwich with remaining bread slices and serve for the freshest lunch.

- Created by Australian Avocados

Ingredients 4 (240g) Portabella Mushrooms, thickly sliced 50g butter 240g truss cherry tomatoes, cut into 4 lengths 1/3 cup olive oil 350g zucchini, grated 100g halloumi cheese, chopped 1 tsp sweet paprika 2 green onions, thinly sliced 6 eggs ½ cup (75g) self raising flour 1/3 cup (75ml) milk

· · · · · · · · · · ·

Method 1. Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes or until tender and lightly browned. Remove mushrooms and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 180°C fan forced. Line a baking tray with baking paper. Place cherry tomatoes on the baking tray and drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until tomatoes are softened.

3. Using hands squeeze zucchini to remove any excess liquid. Combine zucchini, halloumi, paprika and green onion in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Combine flour, 2 eggs and milk in a separate bowl. Add zucchini mixture and stir gently until combine.

4. Heat one third of the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Drop ¼ cups of the fritter mixture into pan and cook, in batches, for 5 minutes each side or until cooked through.

5. Meanwhile, poach remaining 4 eggs in a pan of simmering water for 4-5 minutes or until cooked to your liking.

6. Place zucchini fritters on plate, top with mushrooms, poached egg and cherry tomatoes to serve.

Green is good sandwhiches.

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Thursday, 17 September, 2020

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FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Healthcare with heart

NEW DOCTORS NOW OPEN Offering all GP services Immunisations, Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Mental Health, Chronic Disease Management, Bulk Billing, All children under 16 Aged Pensioner Concession Card Holders 19/445 Princes Hwy, Officer 3809

St John of God Healthcare is a not-for-profit organisation that operates 24 facilities.

While each of these facilities offer different clinical services, patients and visitors will be impressed by the consistency of care closer to home which is based on a strong mission

Please note that if you have any symptons you must isolate at home following the dhhs guidlines until you receive your results and then follow any instructions given.

Book your appointment today

and supported by meaningful organisational values. This foundation sees all three hospitals providing exceptional care with a compassionate touch, allowing St John of Health Care to

function at the very heart of healthcare in Melbourne’s south east.

For more information on St John of God Health Care visit www.sjog.org.au

The heart of healthcare in Melbourne’s south east 12461374-SG38-20

Residents of Casey and Cardinia will be familiar with St John of God Berwick Hospital, with its lengthy 110 year history and distinctive blue façade. What many don’t know is that St John of God Healthcare (SJGHC) is a not-forprofit organisation that operates 24 facilities comprising more than 3,400 hospital beds in Australia and New Zealand, as well as home nursing, disability services and social outreach programs.

Closer to home, SJGHC offers a full suite of healthcare solutions right on the doorstep of Melbourne’s south eastern corridor. With three hospitals located in the region, patients are able to access all of their health needs without travelling long distances into the Melbourne CBD. St John of God Berwick Hospital is an acute hospital offering surgery, maternity, day procedures, intensive care, cardiac care, medical services, consulting, day oncology and infusion, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation and robotics. Berwick is also home to St John of God Raphael Services- a no out-of-pocket expense, personalised counselling and group support for mums, dads and families suffering from perinatal mental health issues.

Just down the road in Dandenong, St John of God Pinelodge Clinic is a mental health and addiction hospital. Here, patients can access compassionate inpatient and outpatient care along with rTMS, ECT, day therapy and consulting.

Nearby, St John of God Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital are experts in specialised Parkinson’s rehabilitation offering LSVT BIG and LOUD® as well as more general rehabilitation including hydrotherapy, inpatient and outpatient care, speech pathology and treatment for movement disorders.

Phone: 7001 1400 • Fax: 7001 1409 Email: reception@officerfd.com.au

STILL OPEN NORMAL HOURS Free masks available for patients

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03 9792 4060 www.dovetonmedicalcentre.com.au for online app.

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STAR NEWS 11

FOCUS ON … EARLY LEARNING AND PRIMARY

A nurturing environment Selecting an Early Learning Centre for your child is a choice that is often accompanied by other changes, for example, a return to work by the primary caregiver.

Heritage College understands that moving into the early years of learning can be filled with lots of questions, so their caring, nurturing staff are on hand to provide support and assistance throughout the enrolment process and beyond.

The Early Learning Centres form part of a larger college community at Heritage College, a co-educational private Christian college, providing education from Early Years - Year 12. Located in two vibrant campus locations, Narre Warren South campus delivers education from Early Learning-Year 6 and Officer campus delivers Early Learning - Year 12.

During school term, Early Learners utilise the campus grounds and participate in shared sporting and other college events. Being part of a larger college community means your child will enjoy opportunities at a younger age, including music, science, art, sport and language.

With the popular Bush Kinder program and a focus on play-based learning, educators encourage creativity, curiosity and exploration every day. By fostering a love of learning in a positive environment at an early age, your child will be inspired to continue their lifelong journey of learning.

Heritage College students form friendships that continue from early learning through to primary years and beyond. Every child is paired with a buddy from Year 5 and takes part in a wide range of fun and inspiring primary school activities. It’s all about feeling supported, secure and confident as part of a bigger community.

A pathway into Prep, delivered in part-

Heritage College early learning students are part of a supportive larger community. nership with the primary school, ensures a smooth handover into your child’s first year of Prep when ready. Throughout the year,

St Clare’s Catholic Primary School

your child will develop school readiness skills through structured learning activities.

Help your child move into early learning

with confidence. Contactless enrolments are available during the restriction period. To find out more, visit heritagecollege.vic.edu.au/elc

New leaders stepping up

Our Faith leads to Wisdom and Courage

By Brendan Rees Sixteen students at St Peter’s College’s Cranbourne and Clyde North campuses have accepted their pledge to lead by example in 2021.

The year 11 students were announced as new school leaders after demonstrating good academic rigour and a strong sense of school pride.

Because of the Covid-19 crisis, the new leaders were recognised at a recent Zoom gathering.

In his address to the participants, school principal Chris Black acknowledged the outstanding contribution of their current 2020 school leaders.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has asked much of everyone but especially our student leaders,” he said. “They have demon-

Would you like to know more about St Clare’s Book a Google Meet with our Principal Call 5940 6777

Enrolments now open for 2021!

strated passion, creativity and commitment to care for and reach out to others, particularly our student community.”

He said leadership was noticed particularly in times of adversity and “our student leader’s mindset has consistently been on how they can reach out and support others”.

“They have been the servant leaders that we asked and challenged them to be.

I thank each and every one of our student college executive for their commitment to serve our community.”

As new leaders, the students will be called upon to demonstrate commitment, possess a passion to develop student voice, and be a positive influence on others.

Mr Black also thanked and congratulate those who participated in the year 11 leadership program.

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Thursday, 17 September, 2020

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FOCUS ON ‌ EARLY LEARNING AND PRIMARY

Cooking for the community Students at St Patrick’s Primary School Pakenham have been getting their hands dirty in the garden, growing fresh produce to use in their kitchen classes.

The program, which teaches children the importance of sustainability and healthy eating, is popular at the school, with students sharing the dishes they prepare with their classmates and volunteers.

The school also works with Paddy’s Kitchen, which is part of St Patrick’s Church in Pakenham, to prepare meals for vulnerable members of the local community.

Mary Andrews, the teacher in charge of the program, said that growing and cooking their own food has helped students appreciate the food they eat. “Students learn to explore and appreciate healthy eating and sustainable kitchen practices. They have developed a love for the wonders of nature and are able to share this passion with their families,� she said.

The principal at St Patrick’s, Simon Dell’Oro, said it’s heartening to see students engaging positively with their peers and the broader community. “We strive to follow the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, and actively get involved in supporting the local community whenever possible. Working with the parish to prepare meals for those in need helps our students learn the importance of working towards the common good and wellbeing of all, especially vulnerable members of our community,� he said.

Students have also been embarking on their own sustainable gardening projects from home.

Students are learning the importance of sustainability and healthy eating.

ST PATRICK’S PRIMARY SCHOOL Together as one We pride ourselves on being a welcoming school where everyone is valued and respected. Our FRPPLWWHG DQG SURIHVVLRQDO VWDഔ SURYLGH D VDIH FDULQJ environment where we aim to engender a love of learning in every student.

Enrolments for 2021 are open. %H TXLFN SODFHV DUH ÂżOOLQJ IDVW -RLQ XV IRU RXU YLUWXDO LQIRUPDWLRQ HYHQLQJ RQ 7XHVGD\ 2FWREHU YLD *RRJOH 0HHW 2XU 3UHS WUDQVLWLRQ SURJUDP VWDUWV 2FWREHU 3OHDVH FDOO WKH VFKRRO IRU more information.

Enrol now for 2021 3ULQFHV +LJKZD\ 3DNHQKDP _ ZZZ VWSSDNHQKDP FDWKROLF HGX DX _

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS Berwick-Pakenham

Head to Help centres open

Stay connected locally!

By Mitchell Clarke New mental health clinics in Officer, Berwick and Warragul are set to provide much needed support across the south east, as concerns grow for the wellbeing of locked down communities.

A total of 15 new ‘HeadtoHelp’ clinics were rapidly rolled out across Victoria at a cost of $26.9 million as part of a Federal Government package to “support Victorians” throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

The free service, which officially opened on Monday 14 September, will provide accessible and convenient mental health care over the next 12 months.

Each clinic will provide on-site support including intensive care and social supports, as well as referrals to other mental health services in the region.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said the program was about ensuring people could get the help they needed, when they needed it.

“Our government recognises that the ongoing restrictions are having a significant impact on the wellbeing and mental health of individuals and communities in Victoria, and is committed to ensuring that support is available,” Mr Hunt said.

He said the clinics would play a “key role” in supporting local GPs, emergency departments and hospitals by providing easily accessible

Read the Gazette.

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mental health care.

The clinics will be delivered by primary health networks, with the Officer, Berwick and Frankston hubs set to be hosted by the South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN).

Once fully established, the service will be run by multidisciplinary teams of mental health workers which include psychologists, mental health nurses, social workers, and alcohol and drug workers.

The service will be available to anyone of any age and who may or may not have a GP mental health treatment plan.

Mr Hunt said the new support followed more than $500 million in additional funding towards mental health and suicide prevention during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We continue to demonstrate our firm commitment to the mental health and wellbeing of all Australians, with estimated annual federal expenditure on mental health services and suicide prevention estimated to be a record of $5.7 billion in 2020-21 alone,” he said.

The Officer site is located at 4 Cardinia Road and the Berwick site is located at 76 Clyde Road.

Anyone concerned about their mental health can visit these clinics in person or call 1800 595 212 to talk to a health professional or connect to a service near them.

Keep up to date with all the local news and information from across the region.

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The free service, which officially opened on Monday 14 September, will provide accessible and convenient mental health care over the next 12 months.

SPORT

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Iso buddy-up ca

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By Mitchell Clarke

There are growing calls for a “buddy be implemented system” to for people living alone during the Covid-19 pandemic .

Liberal Gembroo called on the State k MP Brad Battin has Government to New Zealand initiative follow which links people a ing by themselve livs.

“Many people live alone, are out of and have no social work connection during Mr Battin said.

Stage 4,” “The governme nt partners to connect, has allowed intimate and it is only fair person can nominate a single their isolation bubble.” a buddy to allow into That idea has been welcomed by an woman who has Officer lived by herself for the past year.

Beth, who didn’t want to use her real name, said the pandemic , strictions, had been in particular Stage 4 rethe most difficult her. time for “Personally, I don’t feel loneliness that ten. I was an only ofchild so I’m used alone, but this has been different,” to being plained. she ex“It’s a different feeling to when your family or friends go away on a time. There’s nothingholidays for months at that separates er than being not legally allowed to us oth- The State Government said it was vital to other.” see each limit physical interaction to slow the spread To make matters In June, calls of the virus. 208185 over 10 kilometre worse, Beth’s parents live July, as Stage were up by 47 percent while in Picture: STEWART s away, so she’s wasn’t the same 3 restrictions were CHAMBERS as physical contact. meet them at a halfway unable to calls again reintroduced, doubled point to exercise.

“It’s not quite the same time last year. when compared to the “People with intimate same as seeing someone want to acknowledge just how in person, which difficult it is for partners can travel people’s general gives 20 to 30 kilometre Lakeside Psycholog mental health and s can boost well-bein rise to oxytocin and that in y clinical psycholog wellbeing, particular for those provides emotiona at a time, and I get that, it Michael Tomek g,” he explained ist . l support. I get a said “There really is providing mental health condition already experiencing lot of emo- was tricky, tional support from a need for our but a compassionate exemptions people and my friends and family vulnerable s,” Ms Crugnale it may fall under I can’t see them,” approach was said. but needed.

“Whilst many a medical exempshe said. tion, so I would have found new ways of say to people who “It’d be nice if you “The levels of loneliness gling to speak to are strug- connecting, whether through could nominate their doctor or support video calls with person, even if and isolation in family or friends, it was just to catch that one this crisis are just extraordin and get some of discovering new exception or documen service classes or twice a week. ary. The mental up once health impact hobbies or online, or going Most people are tation. from this pandemic “We can’t risk sticking to concernin guidelines and worsening mental is just so so one who lives nearby, for a walk with somearen’t travelling g,” he said. there health, needs further five kilometres or I totally recognise to be some flexibility than “A lot of these people breaching curfew, peounderstanding and my ple who live on their think this would be any different.” so I don’t their own or have been have always lived on job and have is that police are doing a great connection formats own may not have the been single, on hand, or the social quite compassionate but their Calls to Beyond around this time Blue’s support services and about family networks.” has really been tested,coping this.” creased by 66 percent in- ing an increased in April and 60 percent strain on their mental causLabor Bass MP Jordan Beyond Blue’s in May, compared free Coronavirus health.” vital Crugnale said it Mr Tomek said to the same time to limit physical Mental was Wellbeing Service catching up with in 2019. interaction to slow is available 24/7 over the phone friends spread of the by calling the 1800 512 348. or through video virus. platforms 12418633-LN21 “These are such -19 For immediate help, challenging times contact Lifeline and I 11 14. on 13

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Not too bright: Police track down laser light lout

By Jessica Anstice A Pakenham man was taken into custody for pointing a green laser towards a police helicopter on Sunday 6 September.

Officers from Cardinia Highway Patrol executed a search warrant at a Pakenham address in the morning, following an investigation into a man and woman pointing the laser light at the chopper.

The 36-year-old was taken into police custody to assist with their enquiries.

He is expected to be charged on summons for endangering the safe operation of an aircraft, reckless conduct endangering life and possessing a prohibited weapon.

In a statement, Victoria Police said the operation of a green laser pointer towards an aircraft is a “serious offence” which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.

Police reminded the public that a green laser pointer is a prohibited weapon and are illegal without an exemption.

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

The 36-year-old was taken into police custody to assist with their inquiries.

12459671-DL36-20

14 STAR NEWS

|

Thursday, 17 September, 2020

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

The case for a budget For those business owners who already have a budget defined for their business, the idea that you can do without one may seem crazy but I still come across many SMEs where this is the case. Maybe it’s because the thinking is that budgets are only required for bigger businesses or perhaps it’s due to the fact that “numbers aren’t the business owner’s thing”, but irrespective, doing without one means missing out on a key way to properly manage the business and at the same time reduce stress.

A couple of years ago, I was working with a client who is extremely capable in her field and also has a couple of expensive hobbies requiring on-going financial support. While she is very competent in her professional work, she readily admitted that she didn’t like the financials side of business and since she was not sure how to interpret the monthly financial reports she received, the regular financial commitment to her hobby was causing a level of personal stress.

While the thought of doing anything remotely mathematical might have the same appeal as root canal surgery, in reality defining and maintaining a budget is actually very easy to do, makes decision-making easier and will actually alleviate stress.

Why is decision-making easier? Well when you define a budget for the business, you specifically allocate a fixed amount to outgoings and for those that are “investments” (i.e. should give you a return on your expenditure) such as personal development, training and marketing, assuming the budget balances, you can assign an appropriate amount of money.

Without any such budget, when the opportunity arises to spend money on these items, how do you know whether you can afford it or not? When a budget in place, the question then becomes: “am I going to get a sufficient return on the cash I have allocated for this?”.

According to Confucius: “Study the past if you would define the future”, and so an easy way to create a budget from scratch is to simply get a ‘Profit and Loss’ report for the last financial year (this is a standard report from any financial package and your accountant

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH will need to produce this for tax purposes) and base your new budget on this.

The P&L report will be divided up into Revenue, Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), Gross Profit (Revenue – COGS), (detailed) Expenses and Net Operating Profit (Gross Profit – Expenses) and using the figures from the previous financial year, you can simply determine what you believe you expect to happen in the new financial year, i.e. do you expect more sales or less, can you save money on some of your outgoings and what new expenses might you incur?

Three key things to keep in mind here: 1. Be conservative – it’s no good doing a “sunny day scenario” budget, you need to expect that you may not sell as much as you had hoped and/or don’t cut expenses unless you have an idea how to actually do this 2. Factor in wages and super for yourself and 3. Ensure that your budget forecasts a positive Net Operating Profit! If it doesn’t, you will need to look at additional revenue possibilities and/or ways to save on expenses.

Once you have figures for the entire year, then an easy way to create a monthly budget is to simply divide each total figure by 12 and allocate this amount per month. It won’t be perfect, but it should be close enough. Having done this, you can then compare what you actually achieve each month (by looking at your monthly P&L statement)with your budgeted amount to see if you are on track or not.

There are a number of other things that can be done to monitor and predict financial performance of the business, but having a defined budget is the best place to start.

Ian Ash is the Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - www.ombs.com.au

For any queries contact 0410 422 541

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MIXED Reg $25 or large (for 2) $38

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KITCHEN A selection of Yanni’s fancy meals

Police will issue a $495 fine for first time drug driver offenders.

Drug-drivers feel the heat Drug drivers will receive on-the-spot fines and be banned from driving even longer.

Previously police had to wait up to months for the results of a laboratory analysis before issuing drug-affected drivers with fines. Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Libby Murphy described the delayed process as “seriously concerning” as offending drivers could continue driving.

But under a new state-wide trial set to start this week, drug drivers who commit their first offence will now be issued a $495 infringement notice at the time of their offending.

They will also be banned from driving for a minimum of 12 hours and up to 24 hours - before their licence is officially suspended or cancelled following laboratory testing.

“Until now, police would have to wait for a toxicology certificate before issuing a drug driver with an infringement notice and the subsequent imposition of a six-month licence suspension”, Ms Murphy said.

“You should not and do not have the privilege to drive a vehicle if you have drugs in your system, so we’re taking steps to remove that privilege a lot faster if you’re caught doing the wrong thing.”

Drivers still have the option to exercise their rights to challenge their fine through the court process.

Ms Murphy said technology and processes used in its roadside drug testing program were extremely accurate but reassured infringements would be withdrawn if laboratory testing detected an error.

YANNI’S MEATBALLS Yanni loves his balls! Beef Meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce served with our famous lemon & herb fried Potatoes and a greek salad $25.

OPEN SOUVLAKI (CHICKEN, LAMB SHOULDER OR MIXED) Slow cooked & seasoned meat served with a side of greek salad, Pita bread, garlic sauce and fries. $25

TRAY OF SEASONED CHICKEN GYRO A tray of our Deliciously cut & Seasoned gyro meat Cooked to perfection.

Reg $18 lrg $30

GREEK SALAD Fresh lettuce, tomato, Cucumber, onions, olives And feta; finished with our Homemade greek dressing $19.

CHICKEN SHASHLIK Marinated grilled chicken Skewers drizzled with tangy Bbq sauce, side salad and Yanni’s hand cut lemon and Herb fried potatoes. $25

TRAY OF SEASONED LAMB SHOULDER GYRO A tray of our deliciously Cut & seasoned lamb Shoulder gyro meat cooked to perfection.

Reg $20 lrg $32

SIDES Yanni highly recommends, the perfect pairings for a Mediteraenean Feast

YANNI’S HAND CUT FRIED POTATOES Lemon & herb, sweet paprika salted or chilli zest salted $12

TIA’S TZATZIKI OR Melitzanosalata dip (Eggplant) Aunties secret recipe $8

FRESH PITA BREAD Only the best $4

YIA YIA’S DOLMADES (6PCS) Rolled grape leaves stuffed with our herb-y rice mix drizzled in olive oil & lemon juice $10

SEASONED CHIPS Mixed herbs seasoned hot chips $12

EXTRAS Tangy bbq sauce, matinia’s chili sauce or house made garlic sauce 12457581-SN33-20

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 17 September, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

It’s music to your ears

By Tania Phillips Well-known musical director John Foreman is heading back into loungerooms across Australia as part of the Arts Centre Melbourne’s Big Night In program each Wednesday night from 7pm.

Following the success of the first season, broadcast earlier this year a second season has been commissioned with six new episodes providing more light entertainment from Foreman and the Aussie Pops Orchestra together with artists and musicians live in their own homes.

Art Centre Melbourne CEO Claire Spencer AM said the program is part of the centre’s digital program Together With You. “In a time where audiences have had to find new ways to connect with their favourite artists, it has become clear that music and song have the power to tell stories when we often can’t find the words,” she said. “Seeing audiences engage with John, the Aussie Pops Orchestra and some of their favourite artists in these challenging times has been a highlight of the series and why it was such an important initiative for us to bring back.”

Before the second season airs, audiences have been treated to two special encore episodes featuring fan favourites David Campbell, Marina Prior, Casey Donovan and Human Nature as some of the best interviews and musical moments from the original digital season.

The first was held on Wednesday 26 August while the second will be played 2 September.

Foreman said he was pleased to be asked back for more shows.

“We’ve all been heartened by our audience’s reactions to the show over the last few months, and I’m very grateful to all of the wonderful artists who’ve joined us for this unusual but necessary journey,” he said.

“It’s clear that people are hankering after good, old fashioned comfort TV, and artists

John Foreman is back to bring more music into loungerooms. are yearning for an opportunity to remain connected to their audiences. Arts Centre Melbourne’s Big Night In helps both of these things to happen and I’m very grateful to everyone who has made this show possible.”

The new line-up of stars for the second season will be announced in the coming weeks but past guests include Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows, Hugh Sheridan, Jemma Rix, Courtney Act, Lucy Durack, Rhonda Burchmore, Bert and Patti Newton and Sam Mac among many others.

Audiences can relive the fun, joy and musical prowess of the previous 11 episodes at artscentremelbourne.com.au.

The two Encore Episodes and second season were made possible through funding from the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC), as part of Victoria Together. The govern-

ment is using Victoria Together to keep people connected to art, learning and entertainment while they can’t experience it live.

With Arts Centre Melbourne announcing postponing opening its venues back open in accordance with the most recent Victorian Government guidelines and the ghost lights staying on a little longer, the Centre’s focuses remains on finding new ways to engage with audiences, including the digital online hub Together With You. For more information including; bookings for free and ticketed events, Arts Centre Melbourne’s health and safety policies, as well as additional digital content and experiences visit artscentremelbourne.com.au.

Arts Centre Melbourne’s Big Night In with John Foreman

Picture: MARK GAMBINO

Human Nature performed in series one (which is still avaailable to watch) but who will be in series two?

Every Wednesday from 26 until 14 October at 7pm For more information visit artscentremelbourne.com.au

Former Wiggle backs CPR

By Tania Phillips

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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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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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pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe 16 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 17 September, 2020

201902221552-AM10-19

Hearts to help

Music, fun and an important life lesson all in one - that’s the plan of former yellow Wiggle Greg Page for the World’s Largest CPR Class being held on-line from 7pm on 19 September.

The nation held it’s breath when Page collapsed on-stage with the original Wiggles in Sydney during a bushfire relief concert in January. Four people from the audience worked for 24 minutes to revive him and in the months since then Greg has not only worked on getting fitter and healthier but also on trying to improve the survival rate for other’s who suffer a heart event.

He has formed Heart of The Nation and is partnering with Nextdoor, Australia’s largest online neighbourhood network, to deliver a livestream of what he hopes will be the World’s largest CPR Class.

The event is free and every person that registers to take part helps their neighbourhood to a chance to win an AED (defibrillator), a song written by Greg about the neighbourhood and a Covid safe party.

“We’re staging a free online CPR class for any Australian household to tune into on the 19 September at 7pm,” Greg explained.

“We’re hoping to set a world record for the most number of people trained in CPR at the one time but really its just about getting more people confident and feeling empowered to perform CPR if they ever need to.”

He said being the beneficiary of receiving CPR earlier this year and previously not really knowing much about it or having the confidence or empowerment to perform CPR on someone else had motivated him.

“Literally my life was saved because people knew CPR and that has not been lost on me,” Greg said.

“When I found out how many people lose their lives every year through cardiac arrest I couldn’t believe it.

“I want to try and use the profile that my story got, and the platform I now have, to

A dramatic heart evvent in January has given former Wiggle Greg Page a new purpose. educate more people about the devastation that is caused every year in Australia because of the numbers of people dying due to sudden cardiac arrest.

“But there is hope because the more people who are empowered to use CPR, the more chance we have to increase that survival rate.

“It comes down to people understanding that you don’t have to be qualified or certified to be able to do CPR all you’ve got to do is know how to start the chain of survival.

The chain of survival starts with calling 000 and if the patient is not breathing and responding then starting CPR. It isn’t hard to do and once you know that and understand that, you will have the confidence to be able to perform it when you need it.”

He said having the live stream available free to everyone in Australia is a good step to building up resilience.

For more information on the event www. nextdoor.com.au/heartoftheneighbourhood pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

GREEN WITH ENVY A rare opportunity for your family to secure a large 1,003m allotment positioned just 1.5 km from the Drouin CBD. The home offers four large bedrooms, the master with a walk-in robe and full ensuite, two separate living areas, and a well appointed kitchen with quality stainless steel appliances, best of all the large 900mm oven is set at waist height just the way ovens should be.

Gas ducted heating, evaporative cooling, 22 panel solar system, double garage with internal access and remote, outdoor alfresco for entertaining family and friends all year round.

Once outside this home really shines with its private location and secure gardens,

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 Address: 4 Evergreen Close, DROUIN Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $580,000 - $620,000 Inspect: By appointment  Contact: Sam Corrone, 0490 799 922, RAY WHITE, DROUIN, 5625 1033   —  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

96

Lampard

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| Drouin

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        

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 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

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 finishes 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 offered in Drouin including golf course and basketball stadium.

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2 Bedroom - $329,950 - $339,950 3 Bedroom - $379,950 - $399,950 2 Bedroom plus study $349,950 - 359,950

* Images are for illustration purposes only.

Thursday, 17 September, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 17

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

EXCEPTIONAL VALUE AT CARDINIA LAKES LOCATED in the popular Cardinia Lakes precinct and only a short walk from Pakenham Primary School, childcare, shopping centre, central lake and parkland, this home is Ideal for a growing family.

Situated on a 528m2 block (approx.), this well maintained home is sure to impress.

The home comprises four double sized bedrooms including master bedroom with large walk in robe and full ensuite with double vanity, the other three bedrooms all have built in robes and share the second bathroom.

The home has three living areas with front formal lounge, open plan kitchen-meals-

SEJ

living and your very own theatre room to the rear. The kitchen is built for a master chef with 900mm gas cooktop, electric oven, dishwasher, Caesar stone bench tops and island bench with double sink and walk in pantry.

The home also has ducted heating, evaporative cooling, ducted vacuum, and a gas log fire perfect for the cosy winter nights.

Outside is a great sized pergola/decking perfect for entertaining, low maintenance gardens, concreted pathways and a double garage with remote door and internal access.

Extras include tiles to main thoroughfares,

dishwasher, built in microwave, heat lights to ensuite and bathrooms, side access for boat or caravan, security system and roman

blinds throughout.

This property ticks all the boxes and an inspection is a must! ●

T 16P_

Real Estate

BUILT TO CAPTURE MOUNTAIN VIEWS

46 PRINCESS STREET WARRAGUL This 4 BR home on a large block will not disappoint!

Perfectly planned from front garden, quaint private entrance & veranda through impressive entrance hall with display niches for your treasures & loads of storage throughout!! A very large master suite plus 3 additional bedrooms. Beautiful & light filled open living with wrap around deck & elevated to take in the distant mountain views. Extra shedding, chook pen, strawberry patch, fruit & ornamental trees.

Maintained to perfection in most ideal location! $530,000 - $565,000 Internet ID: 22294171 View property and more details at www.sej.com.au

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

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HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 33 BONNEVILLE PARADE, Pakenham, VIC 3810 Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garage Price: $620,000 - $650,000 Inspect: Private inspections only Contact: AMAN SINGH - 0430 420 053, KR PETERS 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, 17 September, 2020

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS In line with the first stage out of Covid-19, closure signs were ripped down at playgrounds on Monday 14 September. The day marked the highly anticipated return to the playground, and kids from across the Shire wasted no time getting back into the swing of things. Gazette photographer STEWART CHAMBERS was out and about and captured the joy first hand.

Play on! Fun times ahead

Two-year-old Elora and Steff headed out to the park on Monday. 215446

George and his sister Minji soaking up the sunshine. 215446

Three-year-old Ally posing for a happy snap, as mum Lisa pushes the swing at PB Ronald Park in Pakenham. 215446

ed Publish y ursda

Ally and Abby having fun on the slide. 215446

Grab a FREE printed copy of your Pakenham Officer Star News!

12453919-FA28-20

Th

Joel from Pakenham couldn’t wipe the smile off his face. 215446

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 17 September, 2020

|

STAR NEWS 19

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It’s the moment they’ve been waiting for so long.

Fun and smiles were back on as playgrounds reopened across the state on Monday 14 September as lockdown restrictions eased slightly.

Children have been seriously affected by not being able to play outside with their friends, Play Australia chief executive Barbara Champion said.

“Playing outdoors every day is essential to their long-term healthy development, in particular their physical and mental health,” she said.

“And so we encourage Victorian families to get outside to play as often as possible. Your children will thank you in later life if you make the time to visit your local playgrounds and green spaces.”

Vanessa Watson of Lynbrook was among many parents to flock to playgrounds with their children in Casey under blue skies on Monday.

She attended Banjo Paterson Park with her three-year-old daughter Alexis who ran “at full speed towards the slide”.

“It’s been very difficult to tell her the playground is closed because of ‘the germs’,” she said. “She doesn’t get it and at three that’s no surprise. She was very excited when we arrived at the park.”

Ms Watson said Alexis was “very happy and didn’t want to leave”.

“She has missed so much and it’s been very boring at times for her as it’s difficult to entertain a three-year-old every day without going places or seeing people.

“The other things she’s really missed is the beach, it’s outside our five kilometres. So hopefully this summer we can have lots of picnics in parks (with playgrounds) and spend some time at the beach.”

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STAR NEWS 21

SPORT

From left: Tom Dalton (under-19s coach), Ash Green (senior coach), Shane Easton (reserves coach), Travis Hamilton (president) and Ian Shaw (senior women’s coach) are hoping 2021 will be a big Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS year for the club. 214925

Bigger and better to come

By Nick Creely Pakenham is counting down the days until the 2021 AFL Outer East season - not just to get its footballers and netballers back at Toomuc Reserve to have a crack in the high-quality Premier division, but to welcome the sportadoring local community back with open arms.

It’s been a tough 2020 from a sporting-industry perspective, and Lions president Travis Hamilton said that while it’s been a massive challenge for his club, they are eager to get back out there and make a fist of it in 2021 and put the year behind them.

“When we thought we were playing footy, we were all really excited,” he said.

“The hardest part was thinking we were going to play, and then virtually pulled the pin within a matter of days.

“The disappointing part of it is the hard work that’s gone into the football, the pre-season that was started back in November, to a lot of our players it was very disheartening.

“As a club, it is what it is, and we have to re-group now, and hope for bigger and better things in 2021.”

The Lions are looking to carry on with the momentum gathered from the 2019 season when the senior side finished runner-up in Division 1 in a brilliant grand final against Doveton.

The club also snagged a reserves premiership to cap off an incredibly successful year.

And the first piece of the puzzle is locking away highly regarded coach Ash Green to once again lead the charge, with the renowned development coach steadily improving the list each year as it now looks to the big challenge of Premier Division.

The club has also re-appointed Shane Easton to coach the reserves, and brought Tom Dalton up from the junior football club to coach the Under 19s. Ian Shaw will once again lead the 2021 women’s side.

Hamilton said that the excitement is building for the club in 2021, and believes the coaching group can help take the list to the next level

after gradual, and noticeable improvement over the last few seasons.

“We’re thrilled with our senior coaches, with Ash Green to get back on board is great, he’s a terrific development coach,” he said.

“His immense hard work last season with the youngest squad nearly paid off, and we were really looking forward to this year, but now look to next year.”

After a taste of Division 1 football and almost snagging a premiership in 2019, Hamilton said that the club, as a collective, believes they can make a real impact in the Premier division and embrace the step up with plenty of youth and experienced players at the core.

“It’s definitely a year (2020) we were looking forward to, and our Under 19s season was a bit of a set-up, putting together a new side, and we were making progress” he said.

“With a couple of younger kids coming through and having their time in the senior squad, they’ve had a taste of it now and will

have another season so it’ll be really good for the club next year.”

One of the biggest aspects of community football is the fans that in any weather come out in droves to support - the vibrant bar, canteen and the buzz created each and every week.

It’s an element that Hamilton has missed seeing in 2020 at Toomuc Reserve all around the league, and said that he simply can’t wait to welcome everyone back.

“We’ve got a strong history, we are 107 years old this season, and we have a lot of great supporters and members,” he said.

“We’re looking forward to putting 2020 behind us and looking to bigger and better things in 2021 for the club.

“I’d like to personally like to thank our supporters and members for sticking with the club and the well wishes they’ve sent on to the club is much appreciated.

“We’d like to appreciate our sponsors who have stuck with us through thick and thin, and all the support is very much valued by us all.”

The Eagles are looking forward to soaring in 2021

By Lance Jenkinson Endeavour Hills has knocked on the head any prospect of its players taking to the field to play rugby union in 2020.

There were discussions between Rugby Victoria and club presidents about the prospect of a summer carnival taking place later this year if restrictions eased, but Eagles president Jeff Lemalu said it got a lukewarm reception and confirmed his club would not be taking to the field until at least the new year.

“It’s been a very frustrating, weird year,” Lemalu said.

“A third pre-season in one year would be too much.

“We’re looking forward to next year.

“Hopefully we can sort something out and have a longer season, instead of 14 rounds 22 STAR NEWS

|

that we usually do.”

While there was little enthusiasm from Endeavour Hills about the prospect of a rugby carnival, Lemalu praised Rugby Victoria for its outside-the-square thinking.

He said that while it has been frustrating not to have rugby this year, the constant dialogue from league headquarters has been welcomed by all the club presidents.

“The best thing about the new board at Rugby Victoria is the communication has been very good,” Lemalu said.

“We’ve been having meetings every Thursday with the general manager and the president.

“They are keeping us up to date.

“At the moment it’s just a waiting game to see when we can go back.”

It has been a draining year for Endeavour Hills players.

Thursday, 17 September, 2020

The Eagles endured their longest pre-season without the rush of playing a competitive match.

Training started way back in November and was halted in February, before they embarked on a second training phase only for the season to be officially shut down due to the pandemic.

Having not played rugby since last year, Lemalu is hoping the Eagles’ players will be even hungrier to return in 2021.

“A lot of the players that turned out for pre-season are definitely going to come back next year,” he said.

“They’re excited and keen to put the boots back on, so that’s a good thing.”

Lemalu is not without his concerns for Endeavour Hills and the wider community.

The Eagles have lost sponsors and some players and parents have been hit hard finan-

cially by job losses.

Of particular concern to Lemalu is whether parents of junior players will be able to afford fees to play rugby.

“Our junior base is very good and we’ve been blessed with that for a long time,” he said.

“That’s the scary thing about it - families not being able to afford to put their child into rugby because of work and because of money.

“It’s hard times.

“It’s one of the things we’re going to be preparing for next year.”

Head coach Ben Perenise has re-committed to Endeavour Hills for 2021, along with the rest of the Dewar Shield coaching staff.

The Eagles are on the search for second and third grade coaches though. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

A bizarre 2020 for sport

By Lance Jenkinson You could say that Sacha McDonald’s bizarre season of netball is a microcosm of life in 2020.

“It will be one crazy year when we look back on it in a few years,” McDonald said with a laugh.

The first inkling of that strange year is that the prized Casey Demons recruit is still yet to pull on the bib for the local club in a competitive game.

She already feels at home with the Demons, but there will be a void until she makes her debut for the club in a Victorian Netball League game.

“It wasn’t my ideal introduction to the club,” McDonald said.

“I’m really proud to be part of the club, but eventually it would be lovely to step out onto the court when the time comes.

“I’m really excited to see what we can do as a VNL group, but we’ll have to wait for our time to come and all the restrictions to open up.”

The year got bleaker for McDonald when her Victorian Fury representation was thwarted after the Australian Netball League became a victim of the pandemic.

The goal attack was eager to showcase her skills on the national stage before, in McDonald’s words, “the world decided to flip on its head”.

But McDonald is not bitter about missing out on her chance to represent the Big V. “Not having ANL is frustrating, but at the same time, it’s pretty minor in comparison to what’s happening in Victoria and worldwide,” she said.

While the pandemic rages, McDonald’s year on a sporting level has at least taken a turn for the better.

The 20-year-old was granted the opportunity to be part of the Melbourne Vixens’ squad for the Super Netball season.

Casey Demons young gun Sacha McDonald is relishing the chance to be part of the Melbourne Vixens’ hub in Queensland.

Picture: COURTESY OF GRANT TREEBY/NETBALL VICTORIA She is part of the Vixens hub based in Brisbane - another strange outcome in a wild year.

“The hub is very unique,” McDonald said.

“It’s something that we’ve never really come across before and fingers crossed we won’t have to do it again.”

McDonald has appreciated the priceless opportunity to be part of an elite environment with the Vixens.

The dearth of on-court play that might have hindered the young goal attack’s development has been offset by the chance to pick the brains of Vixens’ stars.

“It’s been such a good experience,” she said.

“The people around me are pretty prime.

“You try and soak up as much as you can and just appreciate the position that we’re in.

“It’s netball 24/7.”

McDonald is certainly not taking her time in the Brisbane hub for granted.

She is devastated for her Demons and Fury teammates, who are not allowed on court due to Victorian lockdown restrictions.

“We’re actually really lucky to get this opportunity to come up,” she said.

“They extended the squads from 10 on the bench to 12, so that’s given young players a chance to come up and be part of the bubble.

“There are so many ANL players who have pretty much been cut off from competitive netball and essentially within Victoria we’re the only people who are able to play, so that’s something we really understand and are just so lucky to have.”

Speaking from the Brisbane hub, McDonald said she can feel the support of netball-loving Victorians who are appreciating the chance to watch games on TV in lockdown.

The Vixens have been putting on a show for their fans, topping the ladder with 10 wins and a draw from 12 matches.

“People are appreciating what our sport can give,” McDonald said.

“It’s a two-way street - we appreciate the support we get from back home and it’s lovely to hear from friends, family and the wider community that they’re also appreciating what we’re putting out on court.

“It is lovely to know there’s a community there that has our back and it’s been quite crazy the amount of support we’ve had from back home.

“So many messages of people saying that netball is the only thing they’ve been able to do that’s enthusiastic in their life.”

A big netball career development for McDonald came up last week when she was selected in Netball Australia’s Under-21 Centre of Excellence squad.

McDonald is just one of five Victorians named in the 28-player squad.

The Australian team for next year’s World Youth Cup is likely to come out of that group.

“It’s going to be something fun and exciting and challenging to get out there and be a part of,” McDonald said.

“I’m happy and proud to see where I’m at with my netball and really enjoying it.

“I can’t ask for much more, but there’s a long way to go to improve.”

Stingrays look to impress

By Nick Creely

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

QUIZ NUMBER 1731 1.

WHICH club has won the most English Premier League titles?

2.

WHO won American football’s Super Bowl in 2019-20?

3.

WHICH Australian tennis star was pregnant when she competed in a Wimbledon final?

4.

WHICH major golf title did Greg Norman win in 1986?

5.

WHO has scored the most runs for Australia in a single Test cricket match?

6.

WHICH four cities have played host to the Olympic Games on two occasions?

7.

WHICH horse put leading trainer Brian Mayfield-Smith on the road to success?

8.

WHICH team finished runner-up in the AFL in 1934, 1935 and 1936?

Will Bravo is a top prospect from the Dandenong Stingrays. 194400 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

9.

AT which Olympic Games did Australia win every swimming relay?

Matin, Smith and Hill have all impressed in their time at the Stingrays and are part of an 82-person combine list across the country.

The NAB AFLW draft will be held on Tuesday, 6 October with clubs to participate in a web conference.

For the Power, which has produced some wonderful league footballers, including Greg Tivendale, Leigh Brown, Bob Murphy, Sean Dempster, Brendon Goddard, Jarryd Roughead, Dale Thomas, Scott Pendlebury, Dyson Heppell and Anthony McDonaldTipungwuti, they have also got plenty of participation with seven players named in the list.

From the boys, Ryan Angwin, Sam Berry and Zach Reid have been named, while for the girls, Grace McRae, Megan Fitzsimon, Nikia Webber and Shanara Notman are expected to make their way onto AFLW lists.

Zach Reid, a tall defender from Leongatha, could be taken inside the top 10 in the upcoming draft, with the 202cm natural athlete primed to make an instant impact at whichever club calls out his name.

11. WHY was Australia suspended for four years in the 1950s by FIFA, soccer’s ruling body?

10. WHO led the Australian cricket team immediately after the split with World Series Cricket?

12. WHICH famous Australian sporting arena held its last big fight in 1970?

13. WHICH Australian has been honoured in the American football Hall of Fame?

14. HOW many points is the black ball worth in snooker?

15. OVER how many days is competition staged in the decathlon?

16. WHICH Australian Olympian became the first woman to swim 100 metres in less than 60 seconds?

17. WHICH famous French cycling event is held in July every year?

19. IN what sport did Australia win its most gold medals at the 2016 Olympics?

20. WHICH Australian tennis star used a Filipino faith healer to cure a chronic elbow injury?

12461313-SN38-20

18. WHICH well-known English soccer club is based at Highbury?

ANSWERS: 1. Manchester United 2. Kansas City 3. Margaret Court 4. The British Open 5. Mark Taylor 6. London, Athens, Paris and Los Angeles. 7. Tiger Town 8. South Melbourne 9. 1956 at Melbourne 10. Bob Simpson 11. For ‘poaching’ European players 12. Sydney Stadium 13. Pat O’Dea 14. Seven 15. Two 16. Dawn Fraser 17. The Tour de France 18. Arsenal 19. Swimming 20. Tony Roche

Despite the disappointment of having the NAB League Boys and Girls seasons cancelled in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, a string of Dandenong Stingrays and Gippsland Power youngsters will be pushing hard to realise their AFL and AFLW dreams after being named in the AFL’s National Combine lists.

The powerful Stingrays, based out of Shepley Oval, have produced countless league footballers, including Justin Leppitsch, Aussie Jones, Jeff White, Stephen Milne, Brendan Fevola, Chris Newman, Matthew Boyd, and more recently top draftees Tom Scully, Luke Parker, Tom Lynch, Adam Treloar, Dylan Shiel, Lachie Whitfield and Jacob Weitering.

And now the next wave of exciting footballers is coming through the ranks.

Six Stingrays - Abbey Jordan, Jess Matin, Tyanna Smith, Zoe Hill, Clayton Gay and Will Bravo - have been selected to take part in the combine, in what could be a strong year of draftees for the NAB League club out of Shepley.

The AFL last week released a list of 94 players from around the country who will test themselves at the combine, which will be held in each state over the coming weeks.

At this stage, a Victorian combine date has not been set due to the ongoing pandemic and restrictions in place for metropolitan and regional Victoria.

From the outset of 2020, Stingray pair Bravo and Gay have been billed as potential draftees, and despite not getting the chance to get some footy under their belts this season, are strong chances to be snared in the AFL draft later this year.

The pair were both named for the Vic Country hub in 2020 in a sign that they will have plenty to offer at AFL level, with Bravo, a strong midfielder, and Gay, a potential utility with the ability to make an impact at either end of the ground.

In terms of the girls’ program, Jordan,

Thursday, 17 September, 2020

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STAR NEWS 23

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essenceofficer.com.au 12458163-CG36-20

24 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 17 September, 2020

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