News - Berwick Star News - 17th June 2021

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Thursday, 17 June, 2021

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Hospital site sale

Clover Cottage no more

Tigers are ready to roar

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SPORT

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OAM for refugees’ friend

Be patient, get vaccinated

By Danielle Kutchel Gembrook MP Brad Battin and his wife have encouraged all those eligible to get their Covid vaccine as soon as possible.

The couple attended Cranbourne vaccination hub on Tuesday 1 June to receive their jabs and said the staff were “amazing”.

“Thank you to all who we met - everyone had a smile and was supportive as we went through from check-in to jab to the 15 minute wait to leave.”

He urged Victorians rushing to get vaccinated to “please be patient”.

“The staff are amazing, working hard and trying their best to move fast and keeping you in a safe environment,” he said.

“Every vaccine is a vaccine closer to a future of no lockdowns.”

To book a vaccination, visit coronavirus.vic.gov. au/book-your-vaccine-appointment

Gembrook MP Brad Battin getting his Covid vaccine.

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Pastor’s $15k bail After 16 days in custody, a “mellowed” Narre Warren-based pastor accused of inciting antilockdown gatherings has been released on bail with a $15,000 surety.

Paul Furlong appeared by video link at Frankston Magistrates’ Court on 15 June, accused of inciting people to attend services at his Revival Church in defiance of Covid restric-

tions in February and May. He allegedly incited a large crowd of people outside Fountain Gate shopping centre, which was dispersed by more than 100 police officers on Sunday 30 May. At the time, Mr Furlong was “disregarding” his bail conditions imposed after similar charges in February, police said.

On 27 May, Mr Furlong allegedly appeared in an online video interview, urging people to at-

tend his church in defiance of CHO directions.

He also posted a similar message on his own Facebook page, urging people to obey God and constitutional law, to “wake up” and “stand up for your rights”, police said.

Senior Sergeant Luke Holmes, of the Dandenong-based Frontline Tactical Unit, told Frankston Magistrates’ Court he opposed bail.

He said Mr Furlong would continue to defy CHO directions and put Australia at possible

risk of a “super-spreader event”.

“He is dogmatic in his beliefs that what he’s doing is lawful.

“He’s chosen to obey (the law of) God over man.”

Police and health department officials allegedly tried to contact and “educate” Mr Furlong 39 times before the 30 May service.

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By Cam Lucadou-Wells

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THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Felicity McGuire-Bell, customer experience officer at Cranbourne Library

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I am possibly the world’s worst frisbee thrower!

What are you most passionate about?

Equality and opportunity for all.

What does your role at the library involve?

My role is about helping people. It could be finding information, accessing the digital library or assisting with the English Conversation Club. Every day is different. It also involves lots of book recommendations and lovely chats with borrowers!

Why should people visit their local library?

Why wouldn’t you visit? Welcoming spaces, awesome programs, extensive collections, friendly staff and the best part, it’s free!

What is your favourite book and why?

Thirty Thousand Bottles of Wine and a Pig Called Helga by Todd Alexander. This is an absolute laugh out loud story about a couple from Sydney who decide to do a “Maggie Beer” and move to a property in the Hunter Valley.

With no farming or agricultural experience, what could possibly go wrong?

Who is your favourite author and why?

One of my favourites is Garry Disher because he is brilliant at writing uniquely Australian thrillers.

What would your last meal be?

My mum’s lasagne.

What was your most memorable moment?

Visiting my dad’s home in Ireland.

What was your favourite subject in school?

English Literature.

What event past or present would you like to witness?

The dismantling of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

THREE … local men’s sheds to join

1

Narre Warren North Men’s Shed Open Monday - Friday 10am to 5pm, Sundays all day to everyone over 55 years old. Offers indoor area, carpet bowls, table tennis, snooker, darts, coffee chat area, gardening, outdoor cricket. Call Rob on 0409 979 065.

2

Hampton Park Men’s Shed Open Monday and Friday 1.30pm - 4.30pm, Tuesday and and Thursday 10am - 2pm. Activities: woodworking (making of toys etc.), odd jobs for schools and other community groups.

Contact Peter 0433 933 573.

3

Cranbourne Community House Men’s Shed Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9am - 3pm.

Contact Cherie on 5996 2941.

For more local men’s sheds, visit www.mensshed.org/find-a-shed

Sent – 15th Feb

Sent – 23rd Feb

On the mend.

Glad I’m back!

Greg (work) – 1st Feb

Greg (work) – 20th Feb

How are you?

See you soon.

Everyone Every workplace

The sooner you get in touch after an injury, the better the return to work journey.

If you’re recovering from a psychological or physical workplace injury, or if you are an employer supporting an injured worker, make contact as soon as possible. It just takes a few simple words to make a big difference.

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The sooner, the better. worksafe.vic.gov.au/thesoonerthebetter

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OAM for refugees’ friend

By Danielle Kutchel A lifetime of serving those keen to make Australia their home has seen a south-eastern treasure earn one of the country’s highest honours.

Narre Warren South resident Elaine Smith can now add the letters OAM to her name after being listed in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List on Monday 14 June.

She received the honour for her services to refugees.

There have been many services over the years, but it all stems from her passion for ensuring everyone has access to a safe and welcoming home.

“I always thought Australians were generous people who would save others in need,” she explained.

“It was a shock when our policies seemed to be so opposed to that – so that’s why I started taking action.”

She began by calling nearby refugee agencies and asking how she could help them, and soon was hosting those waiting on confirmation of their refugee status in mini-holidays in the small town she lived in at the time.

Then, she began writing letters to those stuck in detention centres, particularly on Nauru.

She would send them gifts of the things they needed, like shoes or watches.

“I tried to be a friend and communicate to the people because they were isolated,” she said.

Elaine and her dog, Flora 240742 “People needed a way that their humanity was restored, because it was being cut away by the detention system.

“I wanted that person to know there was another person that did recognise him or her as a human being and they were not forgotten, and they have our respect.”

She even housed refugees in her own home, offering her rooms as their official place of detention to get them out of the cold, clinical and isolated system, which she said had traumatised the adults and children she had dealt with.

Ms Smith and her husband soon moved from the mid-north coast of NSW to Victoria, settling near Dandenong, intending to be closer to the burgeoning refugee community

so they could better provide assistance.

Once there, Ms Smith became involved in various causes around the Greater Dandenong area. She’s been a volunteer at Friends of Refugees in Springvale since 2012, and at Springvale Community Aid Advice Bureau, Wellsprings for Women, Catholic Care, AMES and the Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre, at various times, since 2008.

Turning her attention to families, she recognised the need for a space for women to make friends and access assistance if needed.

She collaborated with the Hampton Park Community House to create the Women’s Friendship Cafe in Hampton Park in 2012.

“It’s not for one particular culture. It’s for everybody, a spot where we can make new

Major is key to a ‘safer community’ A Victoria Police inspector has been awarded an Australian Police Medal for a 45-year career of outstanding frontline service.

Inspector Christopher Thomas Major was described in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List as gaining “high levels of respect and trust” among colleagues and the community.

He first served at Dandenong police station in 1978, three years after graduating and being stationed at Russell Street.

He was promoted to Senior Constable at Berwick police station in 1980, Sergeant at Moorabbin police station in 1985 and at Dandenong in 1988.

In 1991, he was promoted as Senior Sergeant at Training District then Narre Warren police station for two years.

He was Officer in Charge of Moe police station for a further two years.

In 1997, Inspector Major was promoted to his current rank. For the following 20 years, he was Local Area Commander in various Police Service Areas, including Cardinia.

In 2017 he took on a key role in the police’s Capability Management and Engagement Division.

Inspector Major “has demonstrated an outstanding ability to engage and build relationships with the community,” according to a Victoria Police statement.

friends and at the same time there is somebody there who can be sensitive enough to hear if there is an issue that needs addressing and assist that woman to find whatever she needs,” Ms Smith explained.

With Australia’s treatment of refugees firmly back in the headlines, Ms Smith said she continued to support causes like Friends of Refugees to help feed, educate and support asylum seekers.

“It’s only through groups like Friends of Refugees providing food and assistance that they manage to survive,” she said.

While it’s not been easy – and while in many respects Ms Smith said she feels that Australia’s policies around refugees have deteriorated – she is comforted by the knowledge that she has made a difference to many people’s lives.

She fondly recalled a man whom she helped to obtain a new prosthetic leg when he was released from detention.

At a celebratory event in Fitzroy, the man danced in her honour as a special way of saying thank you.

But she said all of her achievements had been a team effort, won by many people working together.

“I am happy with the [OAM], but I consider it an award that’s shared because anything I did was because somebody gave me courage and showed me how to do something, and somebody did something courageous and wise that I could follow,” she said.

“This award is for the group really – it’s for the people who work on this issue.”

Healey honoured

By Danielle Kutchel

Cardinia Inspector Chris Major, right, with Sgt Fiona Tolmie, Deputy Premier Peter Ryan and Gembrook MP Brad Battin at the site of the Emerald police station in 2012. 85951 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS “He has driven significant work to achieve a safer community and has earned high levels of respect and trust among colleagues and the community during his police career of 45 years.”

Chief Commissioner Shane Patton praised Inspector Major among eight other recognised

colleagues in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

“I believe today’s recipients reflect the excellence within Victoria Police.

“Their passion for service and helping the community has rightly earned them these national accolades for policing and the public service.”

An inspiring educational leader has been awarded an OAM in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Jill Healey was given the prestigious honour for “significant service to education through leadership and advisory roles”.

She has an extensive background in schools, including as a founder of the Victorian Christian Schools Events Network and board member of Independent Schools Victoria, among many other things.

She is perhaps best recognised in the south-east for her roles as a board member at Beaconhills College, and deputy head of Maranatha Christian School from 1990-93.

Ms Healey has previously been recognised for her service with an ACEL Fellowship Award in 2015 and an Award for Outstanding Service from Christian Schools Australia in 2013.

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Survivor a guiding light

By Gabriella Payne

Kay Rankin has gone on to achieve remarkable things since her battle with cancer. 240461 tal for three months and could hardly walk for seven months, and in the meantime, the second bout of cancer escaped and she had more radiotherapy, so they gave her full dosage, and she’s now got scar tissues in there as big as a brick,” he said.

“I’m saying all of this because she’s done all this work in between all this illness, and her courage and her positive thinking are beyond doubt.

“She’s always got a smile on her face and she’s always fine - she’s not going to sit around and do nothing,” Geoffrey said.

While battling all these major health problems, Kay went on to fearlessly advocate for her community and do her part to help others, especially young women.

“I have a belief that our future is with our youth and I think it’s important that girls have a venue like Guides to go to,” Kay said, “it’s a good stepping stone for them for the future.”

Over the years, she held various positions within guiding and in 2001, was honoured with an Emu Award by Girl Guides Australia for her outstanding service to the organisation - but it’s not just guiding that Kay poured her heart into.

Having survived not one, not two but three cancer diagnoses, the Cancer Council of Victoria and the Royal Women’s Hospital were two causes close to Kay’s heart and ones she worked passionately to fundraise for.

By organising and running two balls in Berwick in 2011, Kay helped to raise more than $50,000 for the Royal Women’s Hospital

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Geoffrey and Kay Rankin have been married for 40 years and have been through a lot together over that time. 240461 - a remarkable achievement.

Inner Wheel Australia is another organisation that Kay decided to pour her energy into and over the last 20 years, she has been the president, the district chairman, and even been awarded the prestigious Rotary award, the Paul Harris Fellowship for all that she does for her community.

“She’s always been in the driving seat to come up with the ideas and make them happen,” Geoffrey said.

“Even after being very, very ill and having been in intensive care a lot, she comes out and she has never complained.

She’s never moped or gotten depressed by it, her positive attitude is just second to none,” he said.

Clearly an incredible woman, it’s no surprise that Kay was awarded the City of Casey’s Citizen of the Year Award in 2005 and a Centenary Medal in 2001 - and now her OAM will be added to the long list of her remarkable achievements.

For someone that was told she only had a few short years to live back in 1985, Kay Rankin has gone above and beyond everyone’s wildest dreams and will continue to be an inspiration to us all, for years to come.

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Life is filled with ups and downs but for beloved Berwick local, Kay Rankin, life has been more of a rollercoaster ride - and now, she’s come out on top after being awarded one of Australia’s highest honours, the prestigious OAM. Being named as a recipient in the Queen’s Birthday Honours on Monday 14 June may have come as a surprise for Kay, but if you ask those around her, there’s no one more deserving.

A three time cancer survivor and passionate community volunteer, Kay is being recognised for her service to the community through a range of organisations, including Girl Guides Victoria, Inner Wheel Australia and the Cancer Council to name a few.

Kay said when she heard the news of her OAM, it was “very exciting” but also very “unexpected”, as she believed there were others out there who had done just as much for the community.

“I was quite surprised really because there’s a lot of people who I know over the years who really are as deserving of this, so I’m very humbled,” Kay said.

“Along the way I’ve had some really great support from friends and family, and especially Geoffrey here,” she said, referencing her husband of 40 years, “so it’s been a journey, but I’m still here!”

It may have been a bumpy road, but not many people can say they have the fighting spirit that Kay has.

Having worked as an accountant while raising her four children, Kay had a very busy, happy life and it wasn’t until later on, when she was diagnosed with her first bout of cancer in her 40s, that she decided to take some time to give back to the community around her.

Her husband Geoffrey said Kay’s resilience and positivity were what got her through those difficult times.

“She was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 1985 and it came back again in 1992, so she had half her bowel removed at first, and then in 1992, had the second half removed,” he explained.

“I remember her looking at me and saying, ‘I’ve had cancer twice, and I’m not going to work anymore’, and I looked over and said ‘OK’,” Geoffrey recalled and, it seems the rest is history.

Having been a member of Girl Guides Victoria since 1972, Kay’s health scare and decision to leave work helped kick start her greater involvement in the organisation and in the years since 1992, she has gone on to rise through the ranks and help countless young women in the process - but her battle with cancer was not over.

Shortly after her second bout of bowel cancer in 1992, Kay was diagnosed with endometrial cancer, but even that wasn’t the last of the bad health news.

“So she had three lots of cancer and then a few years later, she had a heart bypass and a few years later got a superbug,” Geoffrey said.

“Her kidneys shut down, she was in hospi-

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Hospital site sale

By Danielle Kutchel Casey Council has resolved to sell a portion of land on Berwick-Cranbourne Road for use as a new community hospital.

At its council meeting on Tuesday 15 June, the City of Casey approved the sale of 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East to the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) for the construction of the facility.

The community hospital will provide residents with access to medical resources like imaging, an inpatient day clinic, specialist care, chronic disease care, and family and children’s services.

It will not house an emergency department.

At the council meeting, Casey’s administrators referenced the 38 submissions received from the public during the sale’s exhibition period earlier this year.

The majority of those submissions expressed concerns around traffic to the hospital site down one of the busiest roads in Casey.

Chair of administrators at Casey, Noelene Duff, said a number of measures would be undertaken by the VHBA to manage traffic and parking in the surrounding area, and the council would be a partner in this process.

“In conjunction with building the new hospital, the VHBA has also committed to deliver two key roads in the Casey Complex,” Ms Duff said.

“These roads form part of the future transport network and will provide access to the hospital once operational and connect the rest of the Casey Complex in the future.”

As part of the hospital development, 300 car parks will be built to cater for the expected demand of visitors.

The City of Casey is advocating for unpaid parking, however, this will ultimately be up to Monash Health, the hospital’s future operator.

Balla Balla Community Centre, which is

Margie Raman, Pauline Richards MP, Judy Davis, Liz Barton, Steve McGhie MP, Jordan Crugnale MP, David Ballantyne from Monash Health and Deanne Leaver from Victorian Health Building Authority at the hospital site in February. 227907 directly in the path of the planned hospital, would stay on at the site for 10 years while planning for its future continues.

Ms Duff said the proceeds of the sale would be invested back into community infrastructure in Cranbourne.

Administrator Cameron Boardman thanked all those who had provided feedback on the hospital project.

He said the community had acknowledged the hospital was needed, and said the council recognised how vital it would be for the area.

“I don’t think in the community consultative process we heard one objection against the merits of the proposal per se; what we did hear was size, traffic, accessibility, parking, noise, waste disposal and other issues, all of which we have certainly considered,” Mr Boardman said.

“What we hope will give the community confidence that we have considered these is-

sues quite thoughtfully and vigilantly is by going down a process where we have taken the lead to engage with the VHBA personally … that we have delivered a much better result for the local community and municipality as a whole.”

He said part of this impact was the delivery of two additional roads to the hospital.

“Whilst there are still legitimate concerns from some members of the community around traffic and accessibility and the other issues I’ve mentioned, there is no doubt that our role as a very significant partner to effect better outcomes will continue,” he said.

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards welcomed the announcement of the sale.

“This is the ideal location for this important community facility, ensuring locals can access more health services closer to home,” she said.

Negotiations on parts of the project are yet to be finalised however the hospital is expected to open in 2024.

Pfizer pause

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Pfizer vaccine bookings have been put on hold at high-volume Covid vaccination centres in Cranbourne and Sandown.

In a statement on 14 June, Monash Health announced a halt to bookings for first doses of Pfizer until “further notice” due to Department of Health advice of “ongoing vaccine supply issues”.

Walk-ins will also no longer receive the Pfizer jab.

However, hotel quarantine workers, ‘red zone’ airport and marine port staff were among a list of exemptions.

Pre-existing bookings for a first dose of Pfizer will still take place as scheduled, Monash Health stated.

Second doses of Pfizer will also go ahead but must be booked on the state vaccination hotline.

The Pfizer vaccine was rolled out generally for Victorians between 40-50 years from 28 May as the state plunged into Covid lockdown.

A surge of people queued for vaccines at the mass vaccination centres in Cranbourne and Sandown, with Victoria reporting a “constraint” in vaccine supply.

On 6 June, the federal government announced it was ramping up Pfizer supplies to Victoria - an extra 100,000 doses over three weeks.

About 71,000 Pfizer shots a week had been supplied to the mass vaccination hubs.

The Pfizer shots are not yet available at GP clinics.

For 50s-and-over, AstraZeneca walk-ins and bookings are still available at Sandown and Cranbourne hubs, Monash Health stated.

To book a Covid vaccination, call 1800 675 398.

They say practice makes perfect, and we’ve built enough homes to fill the MCG almost 6 times over. In a little under 20 years and a little over 20 downsizer communities later, we’ve built close to 3,000 homes for our 3,987 happy homeowners.

In our southeast communities alone, our 1,091 beautiful homes cover a total of 125,491 square metres. This means there are 1,517 happy homeowners living in the most rapidly growing area of the southeast corridor.

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OPINION

Teen bailed on robbery charge

LENSCAPE

A teenager has been charged following a robbery on a train at Noble Park.

The 15-year-old victim was travelling on a Dandenong-bound train on Saturday 12 June when he was approached by a 14-year-old boy who allegedly stole his phone and jewellery at around 6.40pm.

The victim notified Protective Service Officers who arrested the offender a short time later at Dandenong Railway Station.

The Narre Warren South teen was charged and bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

The teen was arrested by Protective Service Officers.

Hamish the hairy hound in Berwick. 240328

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up To the emergency services who have been very busy this last week!

Thank you!

Pakenham Berwick Cranbourne Drouin

5941 4888 9707 5755 5996 6822 5625 2571

Thumbs up To the community rallying around BK 2 Basics Melbourne and donating to get them a new truck after theirs was stolen.

Thumbs up

www.davidwbull.com.au

To the SES. Thank you for your help at our place last week.

Australian owned family business since 1979.

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David W Bull Funeral Directors Provide understanding care and personal service.

Thumbs down To all the dog owners that don’t pick up their dog poo when walking their puppers!!

Thumbs up To my hot wife.

Big Thumbs down To no jobs during school hours.

Hard for single mums to support themselves and children who go to school when you can’t get a job in the hours they are at school.

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.

SOCIALLY SPEAKING On Friday 11 June, a story was shared to the Cranbourne Star News Facebook page regarding a teen being charged over the stabbing murder of Jason Langhans. Here’s how our readers responded online: Seka Raki: All involved should be charged and serve time, an innocent life has been lost. This so called JUSTICE system better bloody do right On Friday 11 June, a story was shared to the Berwick Star News Facebook page regarding the City of Casey’s proposed plans for the Doveton Pool. Here’s how our readers responded online: Sandra McMaster: Do they have to keep destroying what is not broken. Probably paid for out of peoples rates.

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REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au

People living in metropolitan Melbourne will be able to visit regional Victoria from this weekend under the latest easing of the state’s Covid restrictions.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday 16 June, Acting Premier James Merlino said the “state will come back together” from 11.59pm on Thursday 17 June.

The 25km travel limit will be removed at that time and travel between metro and regional areas will once again be allowed.

Two visitors per day (plus dependants) will be permitted to gather inside the home in metro Melbourne, and up to five people (plus dependants) in regional Victoria from Thursday night.

Twenty people will be able to gather outside in Melbourne, and 50 in regional Victoria.

Masks will continue to be required indoors

but they are no longer required outdoors – however ,they’ll still be recommended when you can’t maintain physical distancing.

In Melbourne, funerals will be able to be held with up to 75 mourners, and weddings no more than 20 – and 100 mourners and 50 wedding guests in regional Victoria.

Gyms can open across Melbourne from Thursday night, with density limits and COVIDSafe plans in place, and hair and beauty services will be able to operate without masks during service.

There are new requirements for metro dwellers heading to the snow this season in a bid to keep regional Victoria Covid-free.

Melburnians will be required to get a Covid test within 72 hours of departing for Victoria’s alpine resorts, and a negative result.

For more information on restrictions, visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au

Acting Premier James Merlino. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Looks like Clover Cottage will be turning over a new leaf in the near future. 239886

Clover Cottage and surrounding land on Manuka Road has been rezoned from farming land, to Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS make way for residential dwellings. 239886

A map of the land that has been rezoned along Manuka Road.

Picture: CITY OF CASEY

Clover Cottage no more

By Gabriella Payne

- something that the then CEO of the Casey Council, Mike Tyler, said that they were considering, alongside three other neighbouring properties.

Those considerations may have taken almost five years to come to fruition, but now that the amendment has been approved, locals can expect to see a change at some point in the near future.

Mr Chipperfield, who moved to Gippsland with his wife Engelina after closing the business in 2016, told the Gazette that the property had been merely a paddock when they, in partnership with Trevor Burr, had bought the land from tea merchant Fred Tuckfield’s estate in 1974.

“There was a farm across the road and the land between Berwick and Dandenong was all dairy farms,” Mr Chipperfield said at the time.

When the couple arrived in 1974, the site was home to some extensive gardens and a few

other historic features, but the cottage itself was designed and built by the Chipperfields.

While they were building the cottage over the span of two years, the Chipperfelds operated their restaurant out of a shop on Berwick’s Main Street and it wasn’t until 1979 that Clover Cottage officially opened for business at its Manuka Road site.

The block of land has an even more extensive history, with the grand entrance gates dating back to the year 1840, when they were built for Oliver Gilpin, the founder of Melbourne’s first cash and carry grocery.

There’s no doubt that the land has seen a lot of changes over its lifetime, and it seems there’s no slowing down now!

The Minister approved planning scheme amendment documents are available to the public and can be viewed online at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning website.

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The iconic restaurant and sprawling gardens of Berwick’s Clover Cottage seem set to become a thing of the past, as 18.4 hectares of former farming land, including that of Clover Cottage, has been rezoned for residential purposes.

The Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne MP recently approved Amendment C231 to the Casey Planning Scheme, which will allow parts of the land between 42-80 Manuka Road, Berwick to be transformed into residential dwellings.

The Amendment means that the vast amount of land, which has a very rich local history, has been changed from a “farming zone” to a “neighbourhood residential zone” along with a number of other updates, including changes to the heritage overlay on the site.

This decision was put into effect on Thursday 20 May 2021, when it was published in the

Victoria Government Gazette and comes after years of debate and planning panel hearings over the land.

Having shut its doors for good in 2016, the old Clover Cottage site has sat vacant for years, but it seems this recent decision will now see the historic site turn over a new page in its story.

Back in 2016, when the fine-dining restaurant was getting ready to close its doors, the existing owner of Clover Cottage, John Chipperfield told the Gazette that the eight-acre Manuka Road property had been sold to an investment company.

“There have been a lot of rumours going around, but the current zoning wouldn’t allow the land to be subdivided,” Mr Chipperfield said in 2016.

At the time, Mr Chipperfield admitted he had submitted an application to the City of Casey requesting that the land be rezoned

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STAR NEWS 7

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Bailed man ‘mellowed’

Bass MP Jordan Crugnale meets with Clyde resident John Castillo in March at the Casey Fields Vodafone mobile tower.

Better signal hope

By Danielle Kutchel A small step is being taken to rectify longstanding phone reception issues in Clyde.

Optus will install a new phone tower at Casey Fields after Casey Council agreed to the telco’s proposal at its council meeting on Tuesday 16 June.

The facility will be 5G enabled and is expected to improve coverage in the area.

According to a council officers’ report, Optus will lease part of the land at Casey Fields from the council and will remove an existing 18-metre floodlight pole at Casey Fields, replacing it with a 41.7-metre pole.

The floodlights will be reinstalled on the new pole at its existing elevation in accordance with the council’s instructions.

It’s the latest step in an ongoing saga for residents in nearby Clyde and Clyde North, who struggle to get mobile reception.

In March, Bass MP Jordan Crugnale launched a petition to the federal government for the provision of better mobile services in the area.

She said many residents had complained to her about the issue.

She welcomed the news Optus was putting up a tower at Casey Fields, but said she had concerns over whether it would be enough to reach all residents in the rapidly growing area.

“It is a good start that Optus are seeking a lease to put up a tower at Casey Fields. I would be keen to hear of their tower plans for the entire 3978 [postcode] area and will discuss this with them directly.

“My concern is if the Vodafone tower is anything to go by, the reception radius won’t get very far into the community of Clyde and Clyde North where it is desperately needed and is a serious mobile blackspot.”

Ms Crugnale called on the gederal government to step in and sort out the problem, saying she had not received a response from the Federal Communications Minister to the March petition.

“I have heard too many stories these last two years and it is time the federal government stepped up and sorted this and stopped coming up with excuses – it is their responsibility.

“It seems they are blaming everyone - but the community has really had enough and just want it sorted.

“People can’t ring their school, telehealth appointments drop out, ringing 000 drops out, businesses struggle, we have tradies working trying to coordinate deliveries, concrete trucks pouring slabs everywhere that are bound by time. We are not in the middle of nowhere here.”

Telstra regional general manager Loretta Willaton confirmed that the telco was seeking to build a site at Casey Fields.

“We’ve been trying to build a new mobile site at Casey Fields for some time,” she said.

“We’ve faced delays getting approval from the local council which means it’s taken us longer than we would’ve liked.”

Telstra has agreed to co-locate its 4G and 5G site with another new carrier at the oval, which is expected to provide better Telstra services for residents.

“We’re on track to deliver this new site as soon as possible,” Ms Willaton said.

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From page 1 Mr Furlong was not at his Tyabb home when police raided it on 28 May. He had been “avoiding” police contact until his arrest on arrival at the church in the middle of the night -about 12.20am on 30 May, the day of the planned service, Snr Sgt Holmes said.

After his arrest, Mr Furlong asked police if they were part of a treason, serving them with photocopied documents “pertaining to be from the High Court of Australia”, the senior sergeant said.

He allegedly quizzed police on whether they had “been in the area of the Masonic Lodge”, whether police had taken an oath of allegiance to the Queen as well as their grounds of authority.

Defence lawyer Rahmin de Kretser argued that Mr Furlong’s offences were not jailable so keeping him locked up until his hearing was akin to “preventative detention”.

“His strong views have mellowed considerably after spending that time in custody.”

Mr Furlong’s wife Julie, who put up the surety, was asked by Ms Prapas if she’d inform police of any bail breach.

“I wouldn’t want to but I guess in this case, I would,” Ms Furlong said.

“I believe in the Bible. I believe and follow the commands of God. “I’m not as passionate about it as Paul is.

“I have been a law-abiding citizen and I have been following the Chief Health Officer’s directive.”

On 15 June, Frankston magistrate Vicky Prapas imposed bail conditions including a ban from social media.

“I want to make it clear that whatever his personal views are of government policy, they’re his views,” Ms Prapas said.

“He’s entitled to those views.”

But she didn’t want him “publishing or saying things that would incite other people not to comply with the steps taken by the Victorian Chief Health Officer to keep people safe and healthy”.

Under bail, Mr Furlong’s social media accounts must remain deactivated during Victoria’s Covid state-of-emergency.

He must not incite a person, or publish material and take part in interviews that incited non-compliance with CHO directions.

He, his Revival Church and his aquarium business All Fins must comply with CHO guidelines such as social distancing, crowd limits and check-in QR codes.

Ms Prapas ordered the bailed Mr Furlong to appear before her in person at Frankston Magistrates’ Court on 16 June.

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Shaun and Tess with their kids Hugh and Kenzie. 238171

Hugh playing with his dad Shaun. 238171 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Hugh enjoys playing on the trampoline. 238171

Finding hope for Hugh prepare for it,” she said.

“My pregnancy was really good, and then he wasn’t diagnosed until nearly 10 months … his development was not keeping up with other kids.”

Hugh didn’t begin walking until nearly two years old, and now, at two-and-a-half, he is still unable to speak.

He currently has a full calendar of early intervention therapies including physio, occupational therapy and speech therapy.

Mrs Thomas said it was hard to tell what Hugh’s future would look like.

“People with Williams Syndrome can be quite disabled but it ranges from mild to moderate.

“Some can go on and live independently but others can’t, they’ll need that support all the time.”

By Danielle Kutchel Finding out your child has a rare and lifechanging condition is shocking news – but a Botanic Ridge family is channelling their experience to create awareness for other families.

The Thomas family was floored when son Hugh was diagnosed at birth with Williams Syndrome, which is caused by a small deletion on chromosome seven.

It can cause a variety of symptoms, including growth delays, sensitivity to sounds and heart problems.

The condition is so rare that normal testing during pregnancy doesn’t pick it up.

Hugh’s mother Tess said she and her husband Shaun had not heard of the condition before Hugh was born.

“It was a shock for us. We didn’t expect or

She said Williams Syndrome was just “a random thing” with no specific cause.

“It’s not inherited, it’s just a thing that happens,” she said.

The family soon realised that Williams Syndrome was so rare that even some allied health professionals had never heard of it and they are now committed to raising as much awareness of the condition as possible.

Mr Thomas is now the president of the Victorian Williams Syndrome Family Support Group.

“It’s a place where families with kids or relatives with Williams Syndrome can join and speak about their experiences and support one another,” Mrs Thomas explained.

“The group is purely for support, educating, and celebrating the beautiful people we have in our lives with Williams Syndrome.”

With May being Williams Syndrome Awareness Month, the group spent the month posting stories on Facebook that celebrated the successes of people with the condition.

Mrs Thomas said she hoped the group’s activities would create more awareness of Williams Syndrome to assist those with the condition and create a more inclusive world for them.

And as Hugh gets older, Mrs Thomas said she hoped her son could achieve his dreams.

“I hope he’s not excluded in any way,” she said.

“I hope he has little goals he’ll strive for.

“I want him to live a relatively normal life and have opportunities to do the things he enjoys.”

To find out more about Williams Syndrome, visit wsfsgvic.org.au

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It’s back to school again

By Danielle Kutchel School students have returned to the ‘IRL’ classroom once again as Covid restrictions ease in metropolitan Melbourne.

From Friday 11 June students from all year levels were able to head back to school again after two weeks of remote learning under the circuit breaker lockdown.

Fountain Gate Secondary College staff were “thrilled” to welcome back their student body, the school said in a statement.

Assistant principal Yashar Duyal said it was “fantastic to see the students catching up and connecting with friends and teachers”.

Students enjoyed real-life art classes, outdoor PE activities and food technology on their first day back in a fortnight.

Assistant principal Sally Sherman enjoyed seeing the enthusiasm of students to resume onsite learning and see their friends.

“You never really know what to expect from students when they come back onsite so it was lovely to see everyone so optimistic and excited to be back, it was great to see the campus busy again,” she said.

At Berwick Lodge Primary School, teacher Rob Kelly said it was great to see kids on the school grounds again.

Students leapt into action on their first day, reacquainting themselves with the school grounds and getting stuck in to STEM activities.

Year 11 and 12 students had been allowed to return to school a week earlier under the gradual roll back of restrictions.

At Narre Warren South P-12 College, almost all VCE students stepped back through the gates on Friday 4 June, with the rest joining via Zoom.

Staff reported that all students were excited to be back.

Staff member Belinda Evans said being on

Year 12s Maya, Sarahkate, Kiara, Basit, Rohan and Matt, back on campus at Narre Warren P-12 College. 239883

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

site made a “huge difference” to teaching, as educators could check whether students had understood and received the information.

For the higher year levels, staff were now focused on ensuring they were still on track to attain their dream scores at the end of the year while remaining motivated to learn, she said.

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Back in the classroom at Fountain Gate Secondary College.

Grade 6 students were happy to be back on school grounds.

Grade 2 students enjoying STEM. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Classroom learning is back for Fountain Gate students.

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Rex name shame

By Mitchell Clarke Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.

Former Springfield Ward councillor Rex Flannery, who resigned as deputy mayor just days before the State Government sensationally sacked the entire council in February 2020, says the events of the past 12 months are still “eating” him up.

He has now officially requested that his name is removed from both a councillor honour board in the customer service centre and a wall plaque in Bunjil Place.

“I have never had any involvement into this alleged corruption scandal and therefore I do not wish to have my name associated with past or former councillors who may have brought our City of Casey into disrepute,” he told Star News.

“People look at your name and they see that you’re from Casey Council and immediately they put you in that same mould, which couldn’t be further than the truth.

“It’s just horrible to have been a councillor in that term. It gives you a sickening feeling in your gut and now I have to live with that.“ Mr Flannery argues his name should never have been placed on the plaque celebrating the $126 million Bunjil development because at the time he didn’t support the project.

“I guess I’ve eaten a little bit of humble pie with Bunjil Place. I’ve been able to see the value that place brings to the community but at the time I was against the development and I wasn’t once consulted (about having my name included),” he said.

He also claims former ex-ward partner, Sam Aziz, stated to him that he “wished he never had my name added to the plaque”.

“That was the only time I agreed with him,” Mr Flannery said.

While Mr Flannery hasn’t accused any former councillor of committing wrongdoing, he said anyone found guilty from the IBAC hearing should immediately have their honours stripped.

“They need to have their plaques removed

Rex name shame

EXPERTS IN FAMILY LAW

Rex Flannery, pictured in late 2015, wants his name stripped from council. 148005 from anywhere within the City of Casey ... whether it’s a plaque in the botanical gardens or in Bunjil Place, I want them removed so they have absolutely no recognition anymore,” he said.

“They’ve disgraced themselves and they’ve disgraced the council. They’ve taken something away from me that I totally enjoyed. I loved serving the Casey community. I just want some clarity as to what way it’s going to go.”

Since his resignation, Mr Flannery has been working in an operating theatre at a local hospital. He said he has every intention to run for council again in 2024.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

“I want to get back into serving the community again. I want to run again and I want to get my name back on the honour board for the right reasons. At the moment it’s a dishonour board,” he said.

Star News understands Mr Flannery has put forward his request to be heard by the administrators at the next council meeting, slated for Tuesday 2 February.“It’s up to them now but a year later, this is still eating at me. I need closure and this is one way that I can get it,“ he said.

“I played no part in any downturn or sacking of the council and I feel it’s my duty to say that I don’t want to be a part of or in any way

Bunjil Place. associated with the 2016-20 term.”

Casey’s governance manager Rhys Matulis said: “Given the IBAC investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment on that matter. Council has received and will consider Mr Flannery’s request in due course.”

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Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.

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Oscar and Alissa. 239762

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Therapy dog calms kids

By Danielle Kutchel In classrooms around the country, a quiet, pooch-led revolution is taking place.

Animal-assisted education is helping students to focus, try new things and stay calm in the classroom with the assistance of a therapy dog to guide them.

Cranbourne’s Oscar the kelpie and his owner Alissa Lever, a provisional psychologist, regularly visit schools around the area in their roles and have seen first-hand the impact of the therapy on students.

Oscar is on the payroll for Canine Comprehension which runs wellbeing programs in schools.

Each of Oscar’s classes consists of 10 students chosen by the school, who sit with Oscar and cover a curriculum chosen by the school from one of the company’s programs.

The hour-long sessions can cover topics like anxiety, dog body language, friendship and other life lessons, and usually involve open discussion of the topic, an activity with Oscar that communicates a message about it, and some mindfulness to wind down.

“The work we do encourages kids that may be having a difficult time at school to come to classes, have a positive experience in the classroom and learn about emotions, selfawareness, empathy, communication skills, teamwork and problem-solving through interactions with Oscar,” Ms Lever said.

“We talk about the process of learning so that kids can use that information in their other classes when the dogs are not there to keep them at that calm level.”

She said Oscar averaged three different school visits in a day, with debriefing walks in between each one to keep him happy and comfortable.

As a provisional psychologist, animal-assisted therapy is something that Ms Lever has long been interested in.

“I became interested in animal-assisted therapy during my undergraduate degree and began really looking into the research around it, as I was working with horses at the time and had noticed how much of a difference they made to my mental health and behaviour regulation.

“Funnily enough, Oscar was also at this work as the owner’s pet and I noticed that he seemed to have an uncanny ability to pick up what I needed at certain times, often herding the other dog away when I was ready to stop playing with them.

“When he and his friend needed to be rehomed, I volunteered to adopt Oscar in the hopes that he would take to therapy work and boy did he - he’s an absolute natural at it.”

The pair completed therapy-specific training through Lead the Way Institute, which offers courses in animal-assisted therapy.

With research in the area constantly being updated, the pair’s interventions regularly evolve.

There is also ongoing training to help maintain Oscar’s skills.

Covid lockdowns impacted on his ability to practise those important techniques as schools closed down over the pandemic, and Ms Lever said Oscar had some homework ahead of him to catch up and become proficient again.

While research into animal-assisted therapy is ongoing, Ms Lever has her own thoughts on why it works so well for so many.

“My thoughts are that most people know intrinsically that dogs don’t judge.

“They do not develop beliefs about you as a person, they respond to the behaviour that they are seeing and the feelings they are sensing and that can be really liberating for kids to say and do things they normally would be too shy to try without the dog.”

She said kids tended to persevere for longer around Oscar and try more options in a sign of increased confidence.

Ms Lever said she thinks of Oscar and herself as “co-facilitators”, jointly teaching the content.

“I can put the lesson into words, create a coherent picture and emphasise the main points, whereas Oscar is more practical and demonstrates the lessons non-verbally, which complements well as some kids will learn better from what I say and others pick up the points better from Oscar’s behaviour.”

She also ensures students treat Oscar kindly, fairly and equally and helps them to interpret his behaviour, so that they recognise if he is beginning to tire or looks overwhelmed or distressed.

“I have been super impressed with how polite the kids typically are as most of them do ask if it’s OK to pat him before they do and they are very mindful of not over-crowding him,” Ms Lever explained.

“He loves the attention. Occasionally we have kids that are wary of Oscar due to fears or prior negative experiences with dogs but they typically relax around him eventually when they see how well behaved he is with other kids.”

To find out more about animal therapy, visit leadtheway.com.au or caninecomprehension. com.au Oscar and Ms Lever can be contacted via email at oscarthetherapydog@gmail.com.au or you can follow Oscar’s work on Facebook @ oscarthetherapydog or Instagram @oscar_the_ therapy_dog berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Arts Festival is back

David with a selection of Walker’s Doughnuts. 238894

Helping out

By Danielle Kutchel After being delayed by Covid lockdowns, a popular Narre Warren doughnut shop is ready to donate some dough in a long-planned fundraiser.

Walker’s Doughnuts Fountain Gate will be raising funds this weekend to support the family of a Narre Warren man who received a lifethreatening electric shock last month.

Bruce Stevens was injured in a worksite accident in Pakenham on Monday 3 May and taken to the Alfred Hospital.

Walker’s Doughnuts Fountain Gate owner David Lock said his son plays footy with Mr Stevens’ son, and when he learnt of the accident he was determined to do something to help.

“We try and do as much as we can for lo-

cal communities – so we thought, why not do something to help raise money,” he said.

Over the weekend of Saturday 19-Sunday 20 June, $5 from every six-pack of doughnuts will be donated to the family to help them through this tough time.

Mr Lock said customers could choose any six doughnuts for $20.

It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a sweet treat while contributing to a good cause.

Speaking of Mr Stevens, Mr Lock said he wishes him and his family well.

“We hope he has a speedy recovery and is back out there as soon as he can be,” he said.

Walker’s Doughnuts Fountain Gate is located at Kiosk 112, Westfield Fountain Gate Shopping Centre and is open 9am-5pm Saturday, and 10am-5pm Sunday.

The jewel in the City of Casey’s art calendar is back.

After a brief interlude last year, the Winter Arts Festival is returning, as spectacular as ever. From Friday 18 June until Thursday 22 July, the festival will showcase performances, events, workshops, film screenings, digital stories and exhibitions.

Celebrating its 19th year, the festival, which is created by the community for the community, has come to embody the community’s passion for the arts and the vibrant culture that is the City of Casey.

While encouraging arts participation, community pride, as well as social, cultural and environmental awareness, the festival also includes a range of free or low-cost school holiday options to keep children’s imaginations active during the winter holidays.

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff is encouraging everyone to get involved in this year’s festival as the arts community recovers from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Council recognises that the arts sector is one of the many industries heavily impacted by the pandemic and this festival provides us with a fantastic opportunity to not only support and celebrate our local arts community, but also provide local artists and art groups great exposure and recognition,” Ms Duff said.

A launch party will unveil a centrepiece of the festival, a giant replica of the Earth’s Moon by artist Luke Jerram.

Measuring seven meters in diameter, the dazzling giant sphere will be in Bunjil Place Plaza from Friday 25 June until Sunday 4 July.

Artists across Casey will be taking part in exhibitions and have viewings in their studio spaces during the Winter Arts Festival, there will be free and ticketed events, and activities running at venues and spaces, as well as online.

Drop in to one of the Casey Art Spaces for free and see what’s new or meet and greet an artist to learn about their practice.

View the full festival program at casey. vic.gov.au/casey-arts

Revati Ilanko (left) and Naureen Choudhry at the 2019 Winter Arts Festival. 194419

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Men show resilience

By Ian McKenzie, Akoonah Park Men’s Shed, and Danielle Kutchel They are a resilient lot at the Akoonah Park Men’s Shed!

The first major extended lockdown certainly threw a spanner in the works so to speak; but this did not deter the members from keeping their chins up and getting on with life – Covidnormal.

The resourceful lot took this as an opportunity to grab hold of the government Covid health and safety manual and under the guidance of engineer Jim Grills and workshop leader and president Maurie Hall went about disinfecting the entire shed, tools and accessories.

Jim Grills set up important protocols for entering the shed when allowed and chairs and tables were meticulously placed apart as per instructions. Temperatures were taken and personal details recorded.

Cognisant that the air had to be as clean as possible, Jim saw to it that three new ventilation fans were installed in the social area, kitchen and metal workshop. The installed cost was approximately $5000.

When it was time to open, the members adhered to the rules (50 members at a time only) and set up cleaning rosters for a daily clean. Members were trained in COVID requirements, temperature checking and social distancing was practised.

The Victorian government’s QR code has been installed and members are getting used to digitally signing in.

Some members skilled themselves with Zoom and held chats across the net to minimise the loneliness.

When they were not allowed to enter the shed, some members formed ad hoc walking/ exercise groups, to help keep up their fitness levels.

Most times this exercise through the Akoonah parkland and its natural bush setting would end up at the local coffee truck in the park, where a good coffee was enjoyed by all while shooting the breeze.

Gradually, as the rules were relaxed, some members met outdoors for a barbecue, all the time being inclusive so members who did not have transport or who did not drive were included.

Welfare leader Ernie Bird ensured the health and wellbeing of members was not forgotten.

Health and fitness are vital in older men’s lives in particular, with the Fitness and Flexibility Group being an early casualty.

Friday mornings were full on exercise by two YMCA professional trainers who developed an exercise regime to achieve strength, balance, and stamina, most vital to avoid falls in older men. Very early on Brett, one of the trainers, put together five exercise activities on YouTube which many of the 25 attendees were able to be involved in, and it showed when they resumed fitness activities recently.

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Ken O’Keefe and Ernie Bird. 240189 In addition, a health and wellbeing phone tree of members was set up to make phone contacts; each team member had 10 other members to call. Calls were made on a regular weekly basis with follow ups as necessary, covering those they already knew were not well and others who had succumbed to hospitalisation, even ICU. Regular weekly and monthly newsletters gave members the opportunity to connect and information from Beyond Blue also gave good advice for keeping well. Secretary Doug Hutchinson was flat out all lockdown keeping an eye on membership, communications from government, VMSA and fielding many questions from members eager to return, ensuring phone contacts were accurate and phone calls made. Membership was suspended during the last lockdown; but recently reopened and the shed is now accepting new members.

The encouragement to new members comes as Australia marks Men’s Health Week, from Monday 14 to Sunday 20 June.

Getting together with a group of mates has been linked to positive health and wellness outcomes so this Men’s Health Week the Australian Men’s Shed Association (AMSA) is encouraging all men to book in a date with their mates.

“You’re never too old to get something out of having a group of friends – whether they’ve

Front: Jim Grills, with president Maurice Hall. 240189 been around forever and a day, or they’re new connections,” said AMSA Executive Officer David Helmers.

Men’s sheds can provide a vital link to help men stay connected to others and to their communities, combating social isolation and both mental and physical ill-health in men of all ages.

For thousands of Australian men, Men’s Sheds are a perfect combination of somewhere to go and something to do, with a group of people with similar interests, to have a conversation and do something meaningful.

To join the Akoonah Park Men’s Shed or find out more, email akoonahparkmensshed@hotmail.com or find them on Facebook.

Grants awarded to Narre Warren South sports clubs Two grassroots sport clubs and organisations in Narre Warren South are set to bolster their coaching skills, administration expertise, or score new sports equipment thanks to a share in more than $7600 from the Victorian government.

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas announced the latest successful applicants from Narre Warren South of the current round of the Victorian Government’s Sporting Club Grants Program, on Wednesday 9 June.

The grants provide clubs with up to $1000 for new uniforms and equipment, up to $5000 for training coaches, officials and volunteers, up to $5000 to improve club operational effectiveness and up to $5000 to help sports get back on their feet after the pandemic.

Grant recipients include Narre South Cricket Club which scored $1000 for new uniforms and first aid supplies and $2000 for additional equipment to minimise sharing, while Narre South Saints Football Netball Club will be receiving $4650 for strategic planning of their organisation, structure, sponsorship and marketing.

14 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 17 June, 2021

“Grassroots sports clubs are the life blood of our community where passion, support, activity, and social interaction all occur to bring us together,” Mr Maas said.

“The Sporting Clubs Grants Program will help Narre South Cricket Club and Narre South Saints Football Netball Club grow their ranks with more people getting involved in the sports they love.

“I would like to thank all our local clubs and supporters who have kept their clubs going through difficult circumstances and their desire to keep our community moving is to be admired.”

The Sporting Club Grants Program is part of the Victorian Government’s commitment to make sport more accessible and inclusive, stimulate local economies, build sustainable sport and recreation and volunteer opportunities and increase local participation as coronavirus restrictions are lifted.

For more information on the grants, visit sport.vic.gov.au/grants-and-funding/ourgrants/sporting-club-grants-program

Gary Maas, right, with Rob Wilson, centre, from Narre South Cricket Club and Adrian Hopkins, left, from Narre South Saints Football Netball Club.

Picture: SUPPLIED berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Power out for thousands Homes and businesses in Casey were among hundreds of thousands to lose power last week in wild weather.

Trees are down across the region after southerly and south-easterly winds gusting more than 100km/h lashed the state.

As of the morning of Thursday 10 June, power outages continued to impact suburbs around Casey including Lysterfield South (60 households), Harakway (222 households), and Hampton Park (1197 households).

Power was not expected to be restored in these areas until that afternoon.

Online, residents reported multiple trees down and traffic lights out at key intersections.

A Telstra spokesperson said the storms had impacted its network, with assessments into the full impact ongoing.

A spokesperson said the south-eastern suburbs and West Gippsland were among the areas being focused on.

“We’re working with power authorities to get our sites back online as quickly as possible,” the spokesperson said.

“Where power authorities can’t restore electricity, our power and facilities team are prioritising key sites where we can.”

Narre Warren SES controller Damian Burns said it had been a tiring night for crews.

More than 135 requests for assistance had been received in the City of Casey, with crews also assisting in other areas including around Emerald, where Narre Warren SES volunteers helped release an ambulance blocked by trees.

Others have been posted to Lakes Entrance to assist with flooding in the Gippsland area.

In the City of Casey, Mr Burns said “trees everywhere” was the main issue, with downed limbs blocking not just major roads but small-

A tree down in Blind Bight after the storms. er streets and courts.

He said residents could still continue to call the SES for assistance where required, but said that jobs would be triaged based on severity.

“If you have another way of fixing the problem sooner without putting yourself at risk,

like getting a tradesperson, that might be a way of getting the problem fixed sooner,” he said.

Mr Burns also reminded locals to take care on slippery roads and footpaths.

The Department of Transport has urged drivers and commuters to be cautious and

aware of closures impacting their travel.

Drivers are reminded to ensure they leave extra space between them and the car in front, as braking distances increase in wet conditions.

Headlights should be on, and extra vigilance is required for cyclists and motorbikes which are harder to see.

Drivers are also reminded to never enter flood waters, and to stay off the roads unless it is absolutely necessary to drive.

If the rain becomes too heavy for wipers to cope, drivers should pull over safely and wait for the rain to pass.

Meanwhile, rail commuters are experiencing delays after a tree branch fell across railway lines at Dandenong, according to the Department of Transport.

Trains are not stopping at Sandown Park due to flooding. Shuttle buses will be organised, the department says. Passengers can still use Springvale or Noble Park stations.

A flood watch is active for Dandenong Creek, particularly at Heatherton Road between Stud Road and Monash Freeway.

Across the state, SES reported 5000 callouts for help. More than 200,000 homes and businesses in Victoria suffered electricity outages.

About 162,000 were in the AusNet Services distribution area, which includes the Dandenongs, the outer East and South East suburbs.

Residents are urged to be patient as emergency services continue to deal with the fallout of the storm.

Victorians are allowed to move beyond the current travel limits to escape an emergency situation, regardless of current Covid restrictions.

Libraries continued to deliver during pandemic This lockdown, the Casey Cardinia Libraries (CCLC) have been fortunate enough to continue their ‘click and collect’ and delivery service which was available during 2020.

Patrons can request, either online or via a phone call, specific titles or a ‘binge bag’ which they can collect from their nearest branch or can be posted out to them. Star News caught up with Bunjil librarian JADINE MACCUAIG to learn more about why the availability of library services is important during a pandemic.

Working in the library is such a privilege and I am always excited and energised before starting a shift.

My favourite part of working for CCLC is the ability to connect with my community and engage with a variety of individuals which, in a lockdown, feels even more special.

It is great we can offer click and collect and delivery of books, especially for those who live further than a 10km radius or are experiencing some vulnerability.

The main component of my role is customer service, and no day is the same as we adapt to support each member.

In the current restrictions. this involves the click and collect service and home deliveries.

Members can request specific titles or a binge bag, and throughout the day we will prepare them.

Binge bags request are especially fun to pack as we search the collection to find items most suited to the individual’s needs and wants.

Most requests will provide some information such as “three-year-old that loves dinosaurs and trucks” or “mystery books like Agatha Christie” or “vegan cookbooks”, but recently I packed one that simply said “surprise me” which allowed me to showcase the range of our collection and hopefully helped the member find items she didn’t even realise she wanted.

Patrons can also click and collect printing which is very useful as it is a service that is very well used when we are open.

The community can also reach us via phone with staff working from home answerberwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Jadine MacCuaig packing a box of children’s books for click and collect. 239746 ing all inquiries and happy to simply have a chat.

With many feeling isolated during a lockdown, having someone to call and have a friendly chat with while you arrange some entertainment (a binge bag) for home is really quite important.

Staff working from home have also continued some of the programs, so families at home can still take part in a story time or two (we also keep several videos on our YouTube channel which you can enjoy at any time).

Our online resources are available at any

time but feel extra handy during a lockdown.

Why not start investigating your family tree with free ‘Ancestry’ and ‘FindMyPast’ access, or get your children help with their homework on Studiosity, or learn a new skill on Linkedin Learning?

During normal operations, customer service is still the key component and that will vary greatly, from helping someone print their concert tickets, to recommending their child’s next read to chatting with our knitting club about their current projects.

I am also involved with a program called

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Tech Time where members can book an hour session and receive technology related assistance.

Being able to empower our members with new skills and confidence is my greatest pleasure.

The week before lockdown I was also fortunate to step in and help run a Lego Club session which was a complete blast.

We had set up ramps and built Lego to race down them, with the children, parents and myself really enjoying the high spirited fun.

Thursday, 17 June, 2021

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STAR NEWS 15

CASEY BUSINESS AWARDS Over the next few weeks, Star News is profiling the finalists in the 2021 Casey Business Awards. In the lead up to the announcement of the winners of each category in the coming weeks, we’ll feature stories of these inspiring businesses and the secrets to their Awards success.

Casey’s secret spark

By Danielle Kutchel Self-described as Casey’s best kept secret, United Solar Energy is moving forwards in leaps and bounds.

The quiet achiever doesn’t normally participate in business awards, but decided this year to enter the 2021 Casey Business Awards.

It was then named as one of three finalists in the Business Leadership category.

It’s not bad for a business that started in a garage with an investment of just $1500, according to founder and chief executive Richard Vargas.

While a local business at heart, Mr Vargas said the United Solar Group has now expanded into four countries.

It was “right in the middle” of Covid, he said, meaning the business had to be nimble and manoeuvre around the global challenges.

Still, United doubled its workforce with most staff living local to the Casey office in Hallam.

Almost 80 per cent of the products and services it is supplied with also come from the Casey area.

“We’re not intending to move to any other place. We’ve been here for years,” Mr Vargas said.

As families and businesses faced financial stress over the course of the pandemic, Mr Vargas said the company knew it was well placed to help by offering a means of reducing power bills through targeted and well-designed solar systems.

“It was an eye opener for us as a company to know we did help a lot of families during the pandemic,” he said.

“In the last three months of last year, we saved in excess of $2 million in electricity for those families. It’s mind-boggling.”

United has been demonstrating leadership through its business practises for many years.

The company has a particularly strong focus on education and goes out of its way to upskill the next generation of electrical engineers.

Around two or three years ago, United started up an internship program for electrical engineers on the cusp of graduation, providing them with the practical local, national and now international experience they need to make it in the industry.

Over 300 people have passed through the program, and United has helped place more

A United Solar Energy project. than 50 per cent of those people into jobs.

“We really led from the front and now in our industry there’s a lot of other solar companies either employing the interns that come through our business, or looking at how we do things and how much of an impact it’s made on our business and now they’ve jumped on the internship bandwagon,” Mr

Picture: SUPPLIED Vargas said.

“We’re one of the pioneers when it comes to accepting electrical engineers within our solar industry.”

The program also demonstrates another of the values that United holds dear: supporting other businesses.

And that’s particularly important in the

growing area of Casey, he explained.

“If you’re a small business and in the Casey area, there’s significant opportunities for you to grow,” Mr Vargas said.

“I think that the more local businesses support each other the better it will be and that’s what makes Casey such a strong council area to be a part of.”

Conditioned for success

By Danielle Kutchel

Aniela Chrzanowski and David Brooks from Commercial Facilities Management Air Conditioning.

236511 Picture: GARY SISSONS 16 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 17 June, 2021

Local market leader Commercial Facilities Management (CFM) Air Conditioning has hit it out of the park on their first foray into the Casey Business Awards.

Entering the 2021 competition for the first time, the privately owned company felt pretty confident in its application – but founder and spokesperson Melanie Aldis said the team was “very proud” of their “huge achievement”.

The company has been named as a finalist in the innovation category for changes it made during the 2020 Covid lockdown.

The company used the time to achieve triple certification for the ISO international standards in its industry.

“There’s not a lot of mid-tier commercial air conditioning companies that have that, so it gives us a really good competitive edge … because it’s above and beyond what they’re expecting,” Ms Aldis said.

She added that CFM was able to keep its staff gainfully employed during the pandemic, as an essential service that was able to work with its diverse array of clients while

adhering to all Covid restrictions.

CFM has been located in the City of Casey for 10 years and has worked hard to embed itself in the community.

Keeping things local is extremely important to CFM. For example, Ms Aldis said about 80 per cent of the company’s workforce lives in Casey.

“To keep employees gainfully employed, it’s all about keeping it close.

“We do all our business locally as well, because we’ve built up relationships with all the suppliers over the years,” she added.

The company also maintains some of the council’s own buildings.

“We feel that we’re better placed to service Casey,” Ms Aldis said.

CFM is currently on a “rapid growth plan” to gain further market share.

“Hopefully now that we’ve got this competitive edge it makes us stand out,” Ms Aldis said of the finalist title.

“We’re going to take our business to the next level.”

The winners of the 2021 Casey Business Awards will be announced by the end of July. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

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STAR NEWS 17

NEWS

The Right Attitude TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH pect that a person’s ability to stay calm and focused during a pressure situation would be tested and an absolute requirement for any such role. Can you imagine Neil Armstrong yelling out “Oh my God, there is only seven seconds of fuel left for us to land on the moon! We’re all going to die!” as he navigated his final descent onto earth’s closest neighbour? He certainly did no such thing, and most people don’t realise just how precarious the Apollo Lunar Module Eagle’s position was before it touched down in July 1969.

The good news is that, as per Carol Dweck’s findings, the ‘right attitude’ can be learnt. Irrespective of what we were each born with, it is possible to change our actions and behaviours to accomplish whatever we want. To highlight this point, I would like to share a personal example. The secondary school that I attended in the UK (Dartford Grammar School – incidentally the same one that Mick Jagger attended, although he was years before me!), was in the habit of testing all students at the end of the term through exams. In the first maths test I undertook, yours truly came 23rd out of a class of 24, thereby showing my ‘natural’ ability in maths. Fortunately for me, I ended up becoming friends with someone far more academically accomplished than me and partly because of some healthy rivalry and partly due to a shift in my own mindset, my academic scores improved and I ended up gaining an honours degree in Applied Mathematics. Clearly not due to any innate skill, but much more a function of developing the ‘right attitude’.

I hope this gives some hope to all of you that are striving to do better (or struggling with maths!).

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

Nominations for the councils are now open.

Advisory council call open Victorians from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to join one of the Regional Advisory Councils that help guide the Victorian Government’s work supporting multicultural communities.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence and Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen announced the opening of nominations for the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s Regional Advisory Councils.

There are eight Regional Advisory Councils from across the state, which provide critical, on-the-ground insights into issues that matter to multicultural communities – including migrant and refugee settlement services, employment, education, housing, citizenship and connection to culture.

The Councils also help identify potential solutions and strategies for achieving change, and provide a forum for other organisations 18 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 17 June, 2021

and government bodies to engage with local multicultural communities.

Their work helps the VMC influence policy, and improve government and community services.

The Commission is seeking community members, business and local government representatives and service providers to achieve a balance of experience, diverse backgrounds and expertise.

The Commission strongly encourages people from culturally, linguistically and religiously diverse backgrounds, including established and new multicultural communities, refugees and people seeking asylum, and people over the age of 16 to apply. Members are appointed for two-year terms.

Nominations must be submitted online and close Friday 23 July. For more information on how to apply, visit multiculturalcommission. vic.gov.au/vmc-regional-advisory-councils

Help with care plans Chronic diseases cover a diverse range of longterm health conditions with persistent effects that can progress gradually over time. With proper medical attention, chronic conditions can be managed but not cured completely.

In Australia, chronic diseases are the primary cause of illness, disability, and death.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, there are ten major chronic condition groups: arthritis, asthma, back pain, cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, mental health conditions, and osteoporosis.

As per a survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics in 2018, more than 11 million Australians were estimated to have one or more of the ten selected chronic conditions in 2017-18. Chronic diseases tend to become more common with age. According to the same survey, four in 5 Australians aged 65 and over were estimated to have one or more of the selected chronic conditions. Mental or behavioural conditions, back pain and arthritis, are the most common of the ten selected chronic diseases.

Many chronic illnesses do not pose a lifethreatening risk. They can, however, deteriorate and become more dangerous with time.

Chronic diseases can reduce your quality of life and make it difficult for you to maintain an independent lifestyle. People with chronic illnesses are living longer as a result of improved treatments and management plans. Chronic disease management is a big concern for

healthcare systems all around the world.

Chronic Disease Management is a type of long-term care and support that involves medical care, knowledge, skills, and resources for people with chronic health conditions, so they can better manage their illness on a daily basis.

Better Health Family Clinic offers two types of Chronic Disease Management plans: GP Management Plans (GPMP) and Team Care Arrangements (TCA). This provides the opportunity for you, your GP, health professionals, and community service providers to plan and coordinate your care effectively.

If you have a chronic medical condition, your GP may suggest a GP Management Plan.

If you also have complex care needs and require treatment from two or more other health care providers, your GP may suggest Team Care Arrangements as well. A well-structured approach to health care that includes recognising the specific needs of every individual patient and can assist you and your doctor in managing your illness.

For further information regarding Chronic Disease Management, call (03) 97029300 or book online at betterhealthfamilyclinic.com. au/…/online-booking.

Sources: 1. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/chronic-conditions-and-multimorbidity 2. https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/ chronic-conditions/about-chronic-conditions

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A recurring theme in many of the business articles and presentations that I do is the importance of adopting the right mindset in order to achieve. Last September’s article on ‘Growth Mindset’ highlighted how Professor Carol Dweck’s studies of high performing children showed their enhanced abilities derived primarily from their propensity to learn from their mistakes rather than any inherent talent or skills. This carries on into our professional lives as well where you will find that the best performing staff are not necessarily those with the highest IQ, but rather those who exercise higher levels of emotional intelligence (the ability to understand how others are feeling as well as the impact of their own actions on others) and focus on the personal growth and development of themselves as well as others. This approach is very neatly summed up through Theodore Roosevelt’s quote: “Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care”.

Close to four years ago, I established a recruitment business (OrgMent Talent Solutions) with the intention of using this as a key differentiator in the search for new staff. Whilst technical competence is of course a natural precursor to finding new employees, I believe the technical characteristics tend to dominate the thinking of many business leaders’ hiring as well as that of the recruitment companies that support them in their search. For me, this is the wrong way round since if you get a highly technically competent person into the business who does not share the company’s declared values, it is extremely difficult to shift the individual’s behaviours to align. However, if you hire someone who has exactly the right attitude, it is much easier for them to learn and/or be trained in any technical skills required and hence stay with the business for longer.

This is especially true for highly specialised or key roles where psychometric or personality profiling tools are highly likely to be used to assess a person’s character and suitability for the position. Consider the role of a commercial pilot or astronaut.

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Foot, heel or arch pain?

As we are emerging from another lockdown, we are reminded not to neglect our health during these unprecedented times. The health of our eyes is linked to our general health in many conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and many others.

With National Diabetes Week coming up in July, optometrist Gemma Cowan from Beaconsfield Eyecare explains how diabetes can affect eye health.

What is diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetes can damage the very small blood vessels all over the body, but one of the only places you can actually see the blood vessels is in the retina at the back of the eye. Diabetic Retinopathy happens when damaged blood vessels leak blood or fluid into the retina.

Who is at most risk of diabetic retinopathy?

Anyone with diabetes can develop diabetic retinopathy, but the longer you have had diabetes the greater your risk. The chances are also higher if you have fluctuating or poorly controlled blood glucose (HbA1c) levels. It’s also common to see diabetic retinopathy if your specialist has found you to have a very high HbA1c level, and alters your treatment regime to drop it down very rapidly. Sometimes a slower approach to reducing the glucose readings can help prevent eye complications.

Is there treatment for diabetic eye disease?

If the retinopathy is very mild, sometimes treatment is not required. Otherwise, laser treatment can be applied directly to the retina, or injections to the eye may be used to stop the

leaky blood vessels.

How do I know if I have diabetic eye disease?

Unless you have fluid at the macula (diabetic macula oedema) causing blurry vision, the chances are that you won’t know you have diabetic retinopathy until it’s too late. The best thing to do is have yearly check ups with your optometrist who can determine whether you have diabetic retinopathy, and refer you to an Ophthalmologist if necessary.

Gemma is offering a complimentary OCT macula scan for all patients with diabetes booking in for a diabetic eye test during National Diabetes Week from 11-17 July . You can visit Gemma at Beaconsfield Eyecare at 45 Wallace Street, Beaconsfield. For more information call 8726 9977, or book online at beaconsfieldeyecare.com.au.

Foot, heel and arch pain are extremely common, yet there is much misinformation about these conditions often leading to a misdiagnosis, resulting in incorrect or inappropriate treatment.

Australia’s leading foot, knee and leg pain experts and Musculoskeletal Podiatrists Dr Paul Dowie from Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, provides some insight.

“All foot and leg pain needs to be diagnosed and managed correctly by determining the contributing factors, not by simply addressing the symptoms. Even your local GP, orthotist or general podiatrist may not be the best practitioner to diagnose and treat foot and leg pain and injury, as their scope of practice tends to be more generalized and nonspecific. It’s really important to seek advice from an expert in lower limb musculoskeletal medicine for best results in long-term healing associated with the foot and leg,” Dr Dowie explained.

With over 25 years of experience, Dr Dowie says Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common misdiagnoses for foot complaints.

He says much of this is due to inflammation being diagnosed as the primary concern when it is often only a secondary reaction, therefore the symptom and not the cause is addressed.

Another common reason for misdiagnosis is when tissue thickening evident on diagnostic scans is misinterpreted as inflammation.

In such cases anti-inflammatory treatments and cortisone are often incorrectly prescribed, which can result in worsening these conditions.

“Most foot and heel pain occurs when the plantar fascia (connective tissues running along the bottom of the foot) becomes overloaded, resulting in degeneration of the tissues and/or irritation of the nerves. Although there

may be some accompanied inflammation, these conditions are NOT inflammatory in nature, so should not be treated as such. Most foot, heel and arch pain is a result of faulty foot function or lower limb biomechanics, associated with environmental factors, and that is what needs to be treated - not inflammation.

Degenerative and inflammatory conditions require very different treatment, so they must be diagnosed and treated correctly,” Dr Dowie explained.

If you’d like expert advice about any foot, knee or leg pain, you can book an appointment with Dr Dowie at Foot and Leg Pain Clinics in Berwick. Call 1300 328 300.

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Berwick Berwick Newsagency 29 High Street Berwick Ray White Real Estate 42 High Street Berwick Alex Scott and Staff Real Estate 49 High Street Berwick Harcourts Real Estate 20 High Street Berwick Neilson Partners 1st National 57 High Street Berwick Gluten Free and Chocolate 9/48 High Street Berwick O’Brien Real Estate 56-58 High Street Berwick St John of God Hospital 75 Kangan Drive Berwick Chris Peake Real Estate 18 Langmore Lane Berwick Woolworths Shopping Centre 1-9 Lyall Road Berwick Mansfield Street Foodmart 157-159 Mansfield Street Berwick Parkhill Plaza News and Lotto Shop 13, 215-225 Parkhill Drive Berwick Chemist Discount Centre Shop 2, 215-225 Parkhill Drive Berwick Coles Supermarket Parkhill Plaza Shopping Centre Shop 19, 215-225 Parkhill Drive Berwick Coles Berwick Central 2 Richardson Grove Berwick Hocking Stuart Real Estate Suite 2, 16 Langsmore Lane

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Hallam 7 Eleven Service Station 38-40 Hallam South Road Hallam Joes Mini Mart 117 Hinrichsen Drive Hallam Coles Hallam 2 Princes Domain Drive Hallam Raine and Horne Real Estate - Hallam 2 Spring Square Hallam Hallam Square News 42 Spring Square Narre Warren Ritchies IGA Shop 4/14 Webb Street Narre Warren Ritchies IGA Shop 4/14 Webb Street Narre Warren Narre Warren Newsagency 34 Webb Street Narre Warren Fleetwood MiniMart 94-96 Fleetwood Drive Narre Warren Casey Gardens Caravan Park 6 Fullard Road Narre Warren City of Casey 2 Patrick NE Drive Narre Warren Neilson Partners 1st National 418 Princes Highway Narre Warren The Good Food Emporium 15/430–440 Princes Highway Narre Warren Westfield Fountain Gate Shopping Centre 25-55 Princes Highway Narre Warren Coles 25-55 Princes Highway Narre Warren Woolworths 25-55 Princes Highway

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Narre Warren O’Brien Real Estate Narre Warren 25-55 Princes Highway Narre Warren Coles Express 2 Regency Drive & Princes Highway & Lauderdale Road Narre Warren Only Real Estate 13/3 Webb Street Narre Warren Donaldson Martin Real Estate 43-45 Webb Street Narre Warren Coles Express 155-171 Narre Warren North Road Narre Warren North Marcos IGA 2 Oakview Boulevard Narre Warren North Narre Warren North Newsagency 3/1E Oakview Boulevard Narre Warren South Casey Central Shopping Centre 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Coles 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Woolworths 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Ray White Real Estate Shop 20, 400 Narre Warren Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Casey News and Lotto Shop 156, 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road Narre Warren South Ritchies Amberly Park 245 Ormond Road

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20 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 17 June, 2021

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

SIMPLER, SAFER LIFESTYLES AT AVIVA VILLAGE AVIVA Communities Officer provides the most affordable over-55s living opportunity in the market, and with that also comes a team of people with over 25 years collective experience in the retirement industry.

If you are researching the next phase in your life, it can be a little overwhelming, as there are numerous options available to navigate your way through, and all telling you either similar or completely different things.

That is why it is incredibly important to do your due diligence and research the facts.

Aviva Communities prides itself on walking alongside our prospective homeowners every step of the way and are there to help you navigate the process and offer you absolute transparency regarding your costs but more importantly your ongoing savings.

Being able to free up capital to enjoy the things you have been looking forward to experiencing in the upcoming years is an exciting prospect.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Aviva Communities Officer is that you will see a luxury resort style of living and experience the outstanding service that is there to help you achieve the best solution for you.

Sometimes people may think to themselves ‘I could never afford to live there, as the homes are architecturally designed, the fit out is outstanding, the Lodge and its amenities replicate a 5-star hotel’.

The wonderful news is, you can afford to live and enjoy your best life at Aviva Communities Officer.

Once you visit and speak with Andrew, our new home specialist you will understand the facts, be able to compare your current situation and what your new situation could

be with all its benefits and savings at Aviva Communities Officer.

There are numerous ways to simplify your life, while still living a bigger and more luxurious one, and with safety and security all around you.

We want you keep your capital gains, (that way your family won’t lose their inheritance), being able to fix your weekly site fee for life gives you certainty around bills and no energy bills so you keep warm in winter.

Don’t delay, you deserve be enjoying the lifestyle of Aviva Communities Officer.

Phone Andrew 0455 245 438 or visit our website avivacommunities.com.au ●

LOCALS JOIN FORCES DIRECTORS of local estate agencies, Jim Byrne and Debbie Brettoner, have known each other for about 20 years.

During a casual meeting we floated the idea of joining forces, Jim said. Initially it was a bit of tongue in cheek, but after thinking it through we thought that by combining the forces of both businesses we could really have something special.

Debbie and Matt joined Ray White Berwick alongside Eric and Yun about two years ago and their goal was to take their already established reputation as the leading agents in the area to even greater heights with the support of the Ray White Brand.

Jim has been in the property industry for more than 35 years. He has a vast knowledge of and personal experience in new and established home sales, land subdivision, broadacre, and development sales.

He has worked as sales manager for several well-known agencies before starting Jim Byrne Real Estate as an independent agency in 2004.

After establishing the business Jim and his daughter Nicole, saw an opportunity in the property management area to provide a service that was much more than finding a tenant and collecting rent.

Jim says the property management business is so much more. A good property manager is worth their weight in gold they must have so many skills.

They must be up to date with legislation.

The recent 132 changes to the Victorian Residential Tenancies Act, is a great example of the knowledge a good property manager must have.

Property management is a service that is often undervalued.Just a few of the things that a Property Manager has to understand are, property maintenance, trade skills, a basic understanding of construction, insurance claims, trade qualifications, bookkeeping, trust accounting, data management, VCAT processes, working knowledge of legislation concerning property. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

189 Belgrave-Hallam Road BELGRAVE SOUTH

They also must be able to handle many tasks at the same time such as rent increases, property maintenance, staying on top of arrears, dealing with end of lease, start of lease and routine inspections and more.

On top of all that they also must understand that investors need their investment to grow and be protected.

The team at Jim Byrne Real Estate will take that reputation and knowledge into this new venture with Ray White Berwick and together with the support and assistance, of Australasia’s largest Real Estate Group, they will be able to build and improve on their service and skills.

The merging of our two teams means we have more people, more resources and an enormous network of like-minded people to grow with and offer even better service to our customers and clients.

Jim says combining the best sales team with the best property management team is a huge win for our clients.

Now they have access to expert advice and assistance in all aspects of residential property.

We are using the current lockdown to modify and modernize the office at 42 High Street, Berwick, to better accommodate the bigger team. ●

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STAR NEWS 23

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Tigers name new leader

By Nick Creely Brendan ‘BJ’ Johnson has enjoyed a decorated career at suburban cricket level.

Over 10,000 runs, multiple premierships and in excess of 300 first XI games in local cricket with Blackburn South - where he coached the club 15 years ago - and more recently Beaconsfield.

It is a mighty resume.

And now the champion top-order batsman will take on a whole new challenge after being signed as the Tigers’ new non-playing head coach as they search for silverware in the Dandenong District Cricket Association’s Turf 2 competition.

After joining the Tigers in 2013/14, ‘BJ’ has scored almost 3,000 runs with four centuries next to his name, providing a constant source of consistency. He replaces Nathan Goodes, who did a strong job as coach for the past two seasons, but will now slip back into just a playing capacity.

He told the Gazette he was excited about the challenge of leading a club with such a proud, illustrious history.

“The club’s got a fantastic history,” he said proudly of his new role.

“You walk in the clubrooms and you’re blown away by all the history, Mick McMahon’s done a wonderful job with that.

“If I can help the future generations put their stamp on it, that’s my goal. I want success for them, I want to help get them there.”

Johnson said that after a lengthy stint of just focusing on playing, the timing was right to once again take on a coaching gig.

“It was a perfect storm with my work and not playing,” he said.

“Basically, it got me keen again - if I was playing again, it probably wasn’t something I’d really want to do.

“My kids are taking up a fair commitment for me too, so it all aligned - the job came open, and it sparked my interest.”

Johnson said times have certainly changed since he last held the top role at Blackburn

South, but believes he’s ready and raring to once again, this time in the powerful DDCA competition which continues to go from strength to strength each year.

“It was a lot different back then - we had four sides, I was captain-coach and now it is just non-playing, and big numbers and I’ve got good people around me,” he said.

“I have more experience now - it would have been a bit daunting back then, but I’m looking forward to it.”

The Tigers narrowly finished outside of Turf 2 finals last season, but its six senior sides enjoyed strong results across the board, including an F Grade premiership. Johnson said that the club was expecting to field seven sides next season.

And he’s put the onus on the exciting crop of youngsters to take the next step alongside the likes of steady senior players in Michael Vandort, Nathan Goodes, Michael Dunstan, and dynamic bowlers Callan Tout and Jake Cutting.

“The improvement is going to come from the kids - a lot of them will get opportunities, especially with me not playing,” he said.

“It’s up to them. If they put in the work, they’ll get the opportunities, and that’s where our improvement will come from.

“The bowling attack is strong, we’ve just got to pick up the slack with the bat, so the opportunities are there for the taking.”

The Tigers have added a handy name to its list, recruiting AK Tyrone from GarfieldTynong, with the off-spinning all-rounder expected to be a tricky proposition for opposition sides with his power.

“He’s got Sri Lankan Under 19 experience which he did really well in, so we’re really looking forward to getting him in,” he said.

“He’ll bowl baulk overs through the middle order.”

Johnson said that the Tigers have retained the majority of its first XI list, but Luke Stow will play for Dandenong and batsman Tyler Clark is expected to take a season off but may be available for the back-end of the season.

Brendan Johnson is Beaconsfield’s new coach. 203010

Picture: GARY SISSONS

A right royal honour for the heart and soul of the Bulls

By Tyler Lewis Mark Durdin has achieved many things within the football community.

And now, he has received the highest of honours awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM).

The honour – established in 1975 – recognises Australian citizens for outstanding service or commitment, an honour Durdin is very worthy of.

It was a simple reaction for Durdin when he received the news that he would be honoured on Queen’s Birthday.

“Speechless, (I was) very honoured when I received the news, I didn’t really know what to say,” he joked.

It’s hard to put a finger on which particular service pushed Durdin into the running, as he has done so much over the years.

Starting way back in his playing days, Durdin was monumental in the community of deaf football and has continued that loyalty through to today.

In addition to the countless hours of work he has put in to the deaf football system, Durdin is also a well-known Noble Park figure, fulfilling the role as senior team manager for almost a decade.

While it has been a long and brilliant journey, Durdin took a trip down memory lane – back to where it all started.

“I first played with South Australia (SA) in 1980 as a 17 year old in Nhill,” he said.

“They’d just re-formed as a team after being closed for a few years.

“I played 13 games and captained SA in 1988 at Punt Road Oval, we lost, but made new and old friends, which is the most im24 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 17 June, 2021

Mark, right, with his good mate Mick Fogarty when the now Beaconsfield coach was in charge of Noble Park. 240707 Pictures: SUPPLIED portant part of Deaf Community,” Durdin said.

As memories were created on the field, when it was his time to stop playing, there was still plenty of time for Durdin to create some off the field.

So he did.

“I retired from playing to become the national secretary, I was only excepting to stay in the role for two to three years, but it ended up being 15 years,” he said.

“The delegates decided to have a president, I took the role for 10 years.

“I retired in 2016, I still attend the games no matter where the game is played and am an advisor when needed.

“I still love supporting deaf footy,” Durdin said.

After his decades of work at the heartbeat of deaf football, Durdin was welcomed into

Noble Park – where he has now also contributed a mountain of work.

But as all great servers of sporting communities do, Durdin put it down to luck.

“I am very lucky that they welcomed me with open arms,” he said.

“They’re very supportive; the players, the committee and the supporters are very good to me.

“I am privileged to be with such a great club.

“After I retired, the club asked me to stick around and I haven’t left since.

“They’re very good to me, I love the club, it is my second home.”

Over many years of football involvement, it is hard to put one memory down as the favourite.

Durdin was no exception, but he couldn’t overlook a special three.

“I can’t pick one, I will pick three,” he said. “(number 1) my only flag with Gaza reserves in Adelaide in 1990 before I moved to Victoria. “(number 2) Noble Park’s success and premierships. “(and number 3) South Australia Deaf’s famous – and only – win over Victoria at Dawson Reserve in Glen Iris in 1986,” Durdin said.

As for receiving the honour, Durdin is very pleased he joins not only great company that have received OAM’s in the past, but a select few who are also deaf.

“I feel very different (after receiving the OAM),” he said.

“I knew of some deaf people that have received the honour.

“I am very privileged to join them.”

MARK’S FOOTBALL RESUME NOBLE PARK FOOTBALL CLUB Senior Team Manager, since 2012.

Reserves Team Manager, 2009-2011.

Under 18’s Team Manager, 2006-2008.

Junior President, 2009.

Player, 1990s.

Junior Life Member, 2009.

Life Member, 2014.

DEAF AUSTRALIA FOOTBALL President, 2007-2016.

Former Board Member.

Inaugural Hall of Fame Inductee, 2019.

Life Member, 2016.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA DEAF FOOTBALL CLUB Player, 1980-1992.

Former Administrator.

Former Coach.

Hall of Fame Inductee, 2006.

Life Member, 2014.

GAZA FOOTBALL CLUB Player, 1974-1990.

Life Member, 1991.

DEAF SPORT OTHER Inaugural National Secretary, National Deaf Football Association, 1992-2007.

Co-founder, Allies Deaf Football Team.

President, Deaf Darts Australia and Deaf Darts Victoria, current.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION INCLUDE: Club Person of the Year, Noble Park Football Club

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Molineux leads the way

By Nick Creely Dandenong star Sophie Molineux has come a long way since walking into the club out of Bairnsdale as a teenager in 2013/14.

At just 23, the all-rounder has quickly established herself as not only a star of the Premier Cricket competition with the Panthers, but in the country, with over 30 international matches for Australia and a strong domestic record making her one of the most sought after talents going around.

And now the prodigious talent who is a two-time ICC T20 World Cup winner and Dandenong premiership player has been named the youngest captain in the Melbourne Renegades’ history in the WBBL. With 74 WBBL matches next to her for the Renegades - and being part of the squad since the inception of the competition - it’s only fitting that she takes over from Amy Satterthwaite.

“It’s a real honour to be appointed captain of a club I love so much and follow in the footsteps of some high-quality leaders that I look up to,” Molineux told the Renegades website.

“Amy Satterthwaite has had a massive influence on the group and on me personally. Her wealth of knowledge and ability to stay com-

posed is what I’ve always admired. Jess Duffin is such a competitor and leads by example and I’ve also had the privilege of playing under Meg Lanning in the Victorian and Australian teams.

“I am really excited to be able to take what I’ve learnt from each of them, combine it with how I approach the game and continue to grow and learn along the way.

“It’ll be great to work alongside Simon Helmot and the other senior players in the squad. I’m grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity to step up into a leadership position and I hope we can have a really strong season.”

While the Panthers haven’t seen much of Molineux in recent seasons due to international and domestic commitments, the allrounder has an imposing record at club land, with 1041 runs at 31.55 and 39 wickets at 16.15 from 36 matches across her career.

She is also the face of the Molineux Academy, which is run by the Dandenong Cricket Club and is designed for talented female players from the region from 15 to 17 years of age.

The program is ran over eight weeks during the off-season with players occasionally invited to continue training with the senior squad during the summer.

Sophie Molineux has come a long way since her early days with Dandenong. 149894 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Magnificent seven member continues to make his mark

By David Nagel As a member of Pakenham’s famous magnificent seven it would have been quite easy for Derrick Brown to drive off into the sunset and bask in his own glory.

But instead, one of seven players to play in the Lions’ four-consecutive premierships between 1987 and 1990 has dedicated almost 20 years of his life to the development of young footballers as a coach and mentor.

Brown’s story wouldn’t be complete without first reflecting a little on his playing days.

As a youngster Brown lived and went to school in Pakenham, but spent weekends at his grandmother’s place in Berwick, meaning his early football days were spent in the navy blue and white of the local football club.

Brown moved from Berwick to Pakenham in 1986, playing in a losing grand final for the Lions against Cora Lynn, before the appointment of playing-coach Neville Powles saw the floodgates open over the next four years.

Brown describes himself as a ‘just a wingman’, and opinion not shared by the match report of the 1987 victory over Cora Lynn.

“D. Brown was elusive and running riot on the wing. The will-of-the-wisp player with his clever dodging and weaving was a clear winner all day. Brown was winning easily on the wing and giving the Lions every opportunity.”

Brown remembers those days fondly.

“I think for most of us it was a case of just being in the right place at the right time,” he said.

“Neville (Powles) was a school teacher so understood the young blokes pretty well and Greg Atkins looked after us on the field. I was also pretty lucky with injuries. I broke my scaphoid in one of those years but got back for finals to it was a pretty fortunate time all round.”

Brown remembers those Pakenham teams as having some top-end talent but being very well balanced overall.

“Adam Ladbrook and Anthony Paynter got drafted to AFL clubs and Darren Hillard won league medals and best and fairests for fun,” Brown recalls.

Changes are coming, stay tuned!

12493967-CG19-21

Derrick Brown passes on his idea to then Pakenham coach Dan O’Loughlin during the 2008 season. 19798

The magnificent seven. Derrick Brown, front, with from left, Neville Powles, Michael Utber, Adam Ladbrook, Danny Monckton, Stewart Fraser and Greg Atkins. 240738 “The list just goes on and on…Rick Tyrrell, Gary and Tim Nooy, Mark Carney, Mark Paynter and not much got past Brien Brady in the backline.

“We were a young side with a sprinkle of experience and we got along great socially because we all around the same age. And West Gippy was a really good competition back then, with good umpires and a good standard of competition.”

Brown also remembers some of the administrators and volunteers who put in the effort to make the club so special.

“Bob Utber and Wayne Henwood were presidents through those times, we had a mascot in Bruce McArdle and people like Graham Treloar and Russ McGuiness were always around the club,” he said.

“Cliff Smith was an institution as a trainer and Graham O’Brien took over from Cliff… they were just very good people and we were very lucky to have them.”

Brown finished his playing career at Pakenham in 1994 to focus on his young family and to establish himself with his work. He had several years away from the game, with his only involvement being as an assistantcoach to Russell Rowe in several interleague campaigns, researching opposition leagues

and providing an insight into players that could make the grade.

In 2002 he would coach his eldest son Jack at Beaconsfield, in a return to community football that is still running strong today.

Brown has since been involved at many levels of the game, being coach or assistantcoach at junior, under-18 and under-19 levels, and is currently an assistant to seniorcoach Ash Green at Pakenham.

“I enjoyed my time at Beaconsfield, coaching my sons Jack and Darcy, and we had some great success and some really good kids come through that program,” Brown said.

“We won a few flags and created some great memories and it’s great to see those players continue on with their football and be good players at community or elite levels.

“In my last year at Beacy, in 2016, we defeated Berwick in the semis - who were undefeated all year – and then lost to them in extra time in the grand final.

“That one hurt, but it was a great game of football and the players deserved every accolade they received for playing in that game.”

Brown returned to Pakenham in 2017, coaching a premiership in the under 19s after

an uninspiring start to the season.

“I remember people telling me we had heaps of players at the club, but when only eight turned up for training I was a little bit worried,” Brown explained.

“For the next few weeks it was like having a second job, knocking on doors after hours to try and get a team together.

“One mum thought I was a policeman and said ‘What’s he done wrong’, but I was just there to get him back playing football.

“To win a premiership that year, after the start we had, was very rewarding for everyone involved.”

Brown’s volunteer efforts have mainly been focussed on the playing field, although he did spend time on the Pakenham committee during the messy transition from the West Gippsland league at the end of 2001.

“I enjoy the football side of things and I don’t think you should be wearing too many hats when you’re coaching to be honest,” Brown said, before explaining the reasons why he has stayed involved for the best part of 20 years.

“Sport’s a great thing and you meet a lot people that you retain some sort of relationship with for the rest of your life.

“And I just enjoy the team sport aspect where you come from all walks of life and band together for a common goal.

“And it’s nice to pick up the paper each week and read the names of the players you’ve had something to do with. It gives you satisfaction to know that in some small way you have played a role.”

Derrick Brown is certainly not one to sit back and bask in his own glory.

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Thursday, 17 June, 2021

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STAR NEWS 25

SPORT

Cranbourne-trainer Gavin Bedggood takes things in after a winning double at Sandown. 240710

Comica wins race three at Sandown for Cranbourne trainer Mick Kent.

240710

Falls gives Mick Kent a winning double at Sandown. 240710

Cranny trainers dominate

By David Nagel Cranbourne trainers thoroughly enjoyed the journey to their closest metropolitan track on Saturday with the Casey-clan dominating proceedings by training six of the nine winners at Sandown Hillside.

Unique winning doubles to Gavin Bedggood and Mick Kent were the standout performances on the day, while John Price and Richard Laming didn’t miss out on the Cranbourne-party with their own individual triumphs.

Bedggood’s training career reached a new high on Saturday, scoring a winning metropolitan double, with great mates No Effort and Sir Kalahad making the most of an on-pace bias to score impressive all-the-way victories.

No Effort gave Bedggood and jockey Carleen Hefel their first taste of success when the six-year-old mare put on a dominant display in race five, leading throughout and holding on late in the $125,000 Open Handicap (1800m).

Hefel showed great courage to kick clear and build a strong lead at the top of the straight before staving off the fast finish of race favourite Bedford in the shadows of the post.

Hefel and Bedggood then repeated the dose in race eight, landing a massive betting plunge with six-year-old gelding Sir Kalahad running his rivals ragged to score by five-and-a-half lengths.

Hefel and Sir Kalahad made the $125,000 Three-Year-Old Handicap (1300m) a oneact affair, using the preferred conditions of a heavy track and light weight to give nothing else a chance.

Sir Kalahad raced one off the fence, outside the early leader Alsvin, before dashing clear at the 400-metre pole for a dominant victory.

Sir Kalahad races clear to give the Bedggood/Hefel combination a winning double at Sandown.

240710 Pictures: BRETT HOLBURT/RACING PHOTOS Bedggood said the metropolitan winning double was certainly one of the milestone days of his training career.

“Right up there with winning a grand annual or something like that,” Bedggood explained to Racing.com after the race.

“To train one city winner on a Saturday is a big thing, but to get two is great, especially these two horses.

“They live together, they sleep side-by-side together, they go to the track every morning together, they do everything together, so it’s great.”

Bedggood wasn’t sure whether to take on the quality Saturday-class field or leave his steed to prosper four days later. Six scratchings from the race helped with the decision-making process.

“I knew he’d be a red-hot chance with 51

and a half on a heavy track, but I was umming and ahhing about running today and going to the benchmark 70, 1200 (metres), at Sandown on Wednesday, only because there looked to be really good pressure in this race today,” he said.

“He’s best when he finds the front and gets a couple of cheap sections, and then skip away, and I knew that wasn’t going to happen here with a full field.”

Bedggood said Sir Kalahad had now provided great value after originally putting a strain on his coffers.

“This horse, I had to go and buy him with money I didn’t have, and I actually got left with half of him when I sold him, I couldn’t find owners for him,” Bedggood said.

“That’s his second win in town now since we’ve had him, his fourth win in 18 months.

When he gets his conditions to suit, with no

weight, he’s a big threat.”

Hefel, who does little or no work for the Bedggood yard, said the on-speed tactics were the key to their winning double.

“Yeah, pretty much, we just had to ignore the leader on the inside, do our own race, and he was too strong again.” Hefel said of Sir Kalahad.

“I have to brutally honest I haven’t done any work for Gavin but I really appreciate the rides he has given me today, especially as they have both gone so well.

“I know Gavin puts a lot of effort into his horses, they always look so well, and I know there’s a lot of hard work behind the scenes.”

Kent, a veteran of the Cranbourne training ranks, broke a four-year drought when he trained Comica and Falls to victory in races three and six respectively.

The double for Kent, who last struck twice on a metropolitan track at Caulfield in 2017, was never in doubt with Falls giving his rivals a galloping lesson in the $75,000 Benchmark 78 Handicap (1600m).

The five-year-old gelding was nursed perfectly by gun-jockey Damian Lane before streaking clear of his opposition for a fourlength victory.

Price made his contribution when Chassis won the fourth race on the card, while Laming sent punters scurrying for their race books when his despised outsider, Sarodec, won the second leg of the quaddie.

The three-year-old son of Kermadec is working through his grades nicely, with Saturday’s win his third from just eight starts.

Sandown’s next two meetings will be both be on the Lakeside track, this Wednesday 16 and then Wednesday 30 June.

Mepunga Reject strolls to victory in final of Winter Cup Exciting young talent Mepunga Reject passed his biggest test to date with flying colours at Cranbourne on Saturday night when leaving a high-class field in his wake in the lucrative Trios Winter Cup Final (520m).

Trained by Jeff Britton, Mepunga Reject had started $2.40 favourite in his heat, one week earlier when second to Usman Bale, but this time went around at $7.30 with Jason Thompson’s fastest heat winner Immunity a warm $2.10 favourite.

Samantha Grenfell supplied three finalists, with rails runner Nikoli Bale the most fancied at $4.80, while kennelmate Usman Bale at $9.90 was the only other runner at single figures.

There was a keenly-contested battle for the early lead, with Mepunga Reject heading Xavien Bale, Hill Top Jack and Nikoli Bale, while Immunity also began well from box four before being shuffled back worse than midfield.

After rounding the first turn in front, Mepunga Reject opened up a decisive lead in the back straight and was never in danger of defeat, dominating from the front as he cleared out for a commanding three-length victory over Hill Top Jack and Xavien Bale, clocking a best of the night 30.05sec.

It was Mepunga Reject’s 10th win from 21 starts and the $20,535 winner’s purse sent his prizemoney tally rocketing past the $50,000 26 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 17 June, 2021

mark in another success story for Jeff Britton’s potent partnership with iconic owner/ breeder Barry Smith.

Britton celebrated a feature double at Cranbourne with Blazer Glory, a son of boom sire Mepunga Blazer, taking out the Vic Bred Maiden Final (520m).

Strength in numbers paid off for Britton with Blazer Glory, one of his three finalists, opening his account at his fifth start with a 30.17sec victory.

In what was largely a ‘cold’ night for favourite backers, there was an upset in the CGRC Special Event (520m), where G3 Launching Pad winner Kuro Kismet started $2 favourite after missing a start in the main event as first reserve.

But it was a Samantha Grenfell quinella with Knicks Bale ($8.10) finishing best to defeat leader Kinson Bale ($11.30) by one length in 30.19sec, with Kuro Kismet close up in third place.

The Cranbourne Track Star Final (311m) went to course specialist Heidi ($4.80), owned and trained by Christine Haigh, which led all-the-way in 17.60sec.

It was Heidi’s 11th win over track and distance, having also won the Cranbourne Sprint Final last August, with the only other win of her 46-start career coming in a Healesville maiden.

Mepunga Reject with handler Craig Solkhon after winning the Winter-Cup. 240720 berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

12500087-AV25-21

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Kip Homewood

Louise Hurley

Ryan Gains

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Sam Freer

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Phone: 9330 0702

Phone: 9768 4101

Phone: 9769 8096

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Phone: 0412 930 177

Phone: 9707 4455

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Kelly Price

James Bonnett

Paul Webb

Troy Robinson

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Fixtures Round 14

James Bonnett ............. 73 Kelly Price ................... 71 Paul Webb .................... 71 Matt Ketteringham ....... 68 Sam Freer .................... 65

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Kip Homewood ............. 80 Troy Robinson .............. 78 Sam Chipperfield ......... 75 Louise Hurley ............... 75 Ryan Gains ................... 75

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caseycentral.com.au | Strict hygiene and physical distancing policies in place

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Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5.30 pm Suite 5, Level 1/18-24 Clyde Rd, Berwick Phone: (03) 9330 0702 | info@seortho.com.au www.seortho.com.au

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5.30 pm +90 specialty stores Suite 5, Level 1/18-24 Clyde Rd, Berwick Phone: (03) 9330 0702 | info@seortho.com.au www.seortho.com.au 400 Narre Warren-Cranbourne Rd, Narre Warren South

NEW VEHICLES • USED VEHICLES • FINANCE • SERVICE • 12488488-NG17-21

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 17 June, 2021

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STAR NEWS 27

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28 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 17 June, 2021

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