News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 23rd September 2021

PAKENHAM OFFICER

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Thursday, 23 September, 2021

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Shane from Coles Cardinia Lakes showing Tim how to stack shelves.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Caroline, Tim and Dave Gamble at their home in Tynong North are delighted their good news story went viral.

Picture: SHELBY BROOKS

Spreading the joy A simple act of kindness in a Pakenham supermarket has gone viral, spreading joy across the world.

Tynong North’s Dave Gamble shared a photo of his eight-year-old son Tim helping a Coles worker at Cardinia Lakes stack biscuits on the shelves.

He simply wanted the employee, who he later found out was dry goods manager Shane, to receive recognition for the joy he brought to Tim, who is non-verbal and living with autism.

The post has since made news headlines in Australia, Japan, the UK, Spain and Slovakia.

“It’s all gone a bit nuts,“ Dave told Star News.

“I think the most amazing thing is how obviously the world is craving good stories at the moment.“ Dave explained that while on a shopping trip with Tim on Thursday 9 September, they noticed Shane restocking biscuits.

“Tim a) loves biscuits and b) loves stacking things so he become intrigued by what Shane was doing,“ Dave said.

“Shane then showed him how to put a packet on the shelf and they then did the whole box.

“It was just a really nice moment.“ Dave had taken the photo of the moment

to share with partner Caroline but decided to put it on Facebook as well to try thank Shane.

“It’s made the news in Spain, in Japan, we’ve had UK friends tell us they’ve seen it too. The things that I’ve seen forwarded to me, out of thousands of comments I’ve seen maybe six that were negative which is just amazing in the troll filled world of social media,“ Dave said.

“I mean, at its heart it was really such a simple act of kindness that I thought deserved some recognition by Shane’s bosses and now we’re here. The photos were just a habit my wife and I have, as Tim can’t tell us much about what he does so we take photos all the time of what he is doing for the other one to see.

“Tim of course has no idea any of this has happened but if he did understand any of it he’d be absolutely delighted. He adores making people laugh and smile.“ Dave said he was pleased Shane from Coles was receiving some of the attention too.

“Shane is getting heaps of good recognition too. For me that’s almost more exciting because Shane is a really nice guy,“ Dave said.

Coles chief operations officer Matt Swindells recognised Shane with a ‘Coles Appreciate a Mate’ award last week.

“We went in shopping last week and Shane came out and said hi to Tim and gave him a Tonka truck off the shelf,“ Dave said.

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NEWS

Thieves strike at Cardinia Lakes

By Gabriella Payne A number of local businesses have been targeted by thieves in recent weeks, and the Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre has now become the latest casualty.

Senior Sergeant Jason Owen from the Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit said that police were currently investigating the break in, which appeared to have happened in the early hours of Monday 20 September.

“It looks like at least two offenders have forced entry to the shopping centre,” Snr Srgt Owen said.

“It appears they’ve entered through some sliding doors and once inside, they’ve broken into three businesses.”

Snr Srgt Owen said that the thieves had stolen both cash and alcohol from the three businesses before making a get away.

One of the businesses targeted by the thieves was beloved local cafe, Urban Hype, who (like many others) have been unable to operate as usual during the lockdown.

Locals took to the Facebook Pakenham Noticeboard to share their dismay at the news, and offer their support to the friendly cafe.

“To the a***hats who broke into numerous shops this morning - keep your sticky fingers to yourselves,” wrote Cristy Simmons, a concerned resident.

“As if small business isn’t hard enough.”

Ms Simmons wrote that Urban Hype’s own-

ers were “under the pump” but were absolute “troopers” who were continuing to serve their customers during these difficult times - and she encouraged anyone who could to go in an support them if possible.

Snr Srgt Owen said that another robbery had occurred over the weekend at Pakenham Market Place shopping centre, with a “very similar” MO. He said that police were currently investigating whether there was any connection between the two incidents.

Anyone with any further information about either incident is urged to get in contact with the Pakenham police on 5945 2500, or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Car careers into home A car has crashed through a fence in Pakenham after it was allegedly being taken for a test drive on the weekend.

Michelle recalled the moment the convertible flew into her backyard within the Cardinia Lakes estate.

“Not five minutes before I was out in the yard and I had actually just let my dogs out,“ she said.

“We were very lucky no-one was hurt.“ Michelle said she heard a big crash and thought maybe the wind had knocked part of her fence down.

“When I walked out and saw the car, I was shocked,“ she said.

“I didn’t know what to think.“ Michelle said she believed the car was being taken for a test drive at the time.

Ambulance Victoria confirmed paramedics were called around 5pm on Sunday 19 September.

A woman believed to be in her 40s was taken to Casey Hospital in a stable condition with neck pain.

The car was removed by crane the following day.

Burglars hit building site With the construction industry now closed for two weeks, builders in the area are being urged to ensure their sites are locked up safely after another break in occurred in Officer at the start of this week.

Recently, a number of building sites have been targeted by thieves in the Cardinia Shire and it seems the culprits have struck again, this time on Tivendale Road.

Senior Sergeant Jason Owen from the Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit said that police were currently investigating a shipping container robbery at the Officer building site that occurred in either the late hours of Monday 20 September or very early on Tuesday 21 September.

Snr Srgt Owen said that the thieves had stolen copper piping from the site which he said was “not unusual“ - but a blow to the builders nonetheless.

He encouraged builders to make sure that all their supplies left on site were securely and safely stored away, and urged anyone with information about the crime to get in touch with police on either 5945 2500 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A number of break ins have been occurring on building sites throughout the Cardinia Shire recently. 137393 Picture: SUPPLIED

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For testing locations, visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, Melbourne 12514066-SN39-21

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IN BRIEF Drug driver caught out

Shaken, not stirred

A drug driver and his passenger had a costly trip recently after they were intercepted by police trying to enter a regional area from metro Melbourne on Wednesday 15 September.

Police were patrolling as part of Operation Guardian when they stopped the Nissan Pulsar at Longwarry North shortly before 1pm on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old driver from Pakenham tested positive to methylamphetamine and was issued a $5452 Covid infringement notice for breaching the Chief Health Officer’s directions.

His 23-year-old passenger from Officer was also given a penalty notice for breaching the CHO’s directions.

To add to their expenses, the pair had to catch a taxi home as the passenger only held a learner permit.

The driver will now face a date with a Magistrate to explain his drug driving.

By Shelby Brooks Like the rest of the state, Pakenham was rocked Wednesday morning by a magnitude 5.9 earthquake, as recorded by Geoscience Australia.

In the main street, shop owners and customers were left feeling confused by the experience.

Ebony Ankers, owner of The Health Barn, was on the phone to a sale rep in Kyneton when the tremor began.

“It was weird to be on the phone to someone so far away who was also feeling it,“ she said.

“I started to walk towards the window and I could see everyone stopped in the main street looking at each other and holding onto railings.”

Ebony said some light weight packaged goods fell off the shelves in her store, but other than that she was fine.

Ryan Salazar from Keyed Right Locksmith recounted he was undertaking his morning routine at home when he felt it.

“I was at home and I felt it while I was blowdrying my hair,“ he said.

“I had to turn it off and thought what’s going on. Everything was shaking around me.

“I almost felt a little dizzy!“ Despite many key products hanging on the wall of the shop, it was unscathed when Ryan arrived later in the morning.

“It was quite strong but when I came into work there wasn’t anything on the ground,“ he said.

Pakenham SES only received one call out for help, which was for minor damage to house.

There was a possible movement of a roof tile and possible minor cracks in the ceiling inside.

SES volunteers placed plastic over the tile and held it down with sand bags until it could be checked by a professional.

Pakenham SES media officer Shayne Honey said if anyone noticed damage to their property, the SES would happily respond.

“Most people would be home and would have checked their homes already but the SES manages the emergency response earthquakes in Victoria,“ he said.

Call 13 2500 for assistance.

Help needed in arson investigation

SES volunteers from Pakenham attended a house which needed emergency roof coverage.

Pictures: SHELBY BROOKS

Fortunately, Ryan didn’t have to rehang hundreds of keys in Keyed Right Locksmiths in the main street of Pakenham.

Ebony restacks the shelves at The Health Barn where a few products fell during the earthquake.

Earthquake rocks large part of Victoria

By Gabriella Payne Victorians certainly had a rocky start to the day, after a major 5.9 magnitude earthquake was recorded on Wednesday morning.

According to Geoscience Australia, the epicentre of the earthquake occurred in the Alpine National Park in the Mansfield region (North East Victoria) at about 9.15am on Wednesday 22 September.

The earthquake was 10 kilometres deep and lasted about 20 seconds, with tremors being felt all throughout Victoria - and even shaking residents as far up as Canberra and Sydney.

The quake is one of the strongest recorded in Victoria in decades - with Geoscience Australia saying it’s one of the largest south east Australia has felt since European settlement.

A magnitude 4 earthquake was reportedly felt in the same region just 15 minutes or so after the first quake, and experts are warning that after shocks could be felt in the coming days or even months.

Residents from across Melbourne’s south east were quick to jump online and check in

A map showing the location of the earthquake’s epicentre, near Mansfield in NE Victoria.

Picture: AUS GOV/ GEOSCIENCE WEBSITE with one another, sharing their own experiences of the scary ground-shaking moment.

“That earthquake was felt from Gippy to Geelong - it was a big one,” Officer resident Emma Ramsey said.

“I was lying in bed [when it happened] and my daughter freaked out screaming - I thought it was a truck at first!”

Cory Sharp, a resident from Lakeside Pakenham said that his “house shook“ and he

was alarmed as he “didn’t think it was going to stop.”

Some building damage has been reported across Melbourne, and emergency service crews are currently attending to those impacted as quickly as possible.

Emergency Victoria warned people to expect aftershocks and to keep away from damaged buildings and hazards.

It advised to check homes for cracks or damage to walls and chimneys.

During aftershocks, people are advised to stay indoors and shelter under a sturdy table or furniture and to hold on.

Drivers are told to pull over to a location that’s clear of buildings, trees, overpasses and powerlines, and to keep their seatbelts on until the tremors stop.

“Once the shaking stops, proceed with caution and avoid bridges or ramps that may have been damaged,” an Emergency Victoria spokesperson stated.

For more information about the quake, visit https://earthquakes.ga.gov.au/event/ ga2021sqogij

Police are calling on the public’s help as they continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding a case of arson which occurred in Berwick last month.

It is believed that the offender involved parked a silver Nissan Navara Utility near Grices Road on Thursday 12 August.

The man retrieved a jerry can from a secondary vehicle, believed to be a Holden Commodore VE Calais, and set the Navara alight.

Investigators have released four images, of two vehicles that may be able to assist with enquiries.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or alternatively, call Casey Crime Investigation Unit on 97053114.

Police have released these images of the cars they believe may be able to help with their arson enquiries.

Pictue: EYEWATCH

Cyclists urged to stay safe The local government areas of Casey, Cardinia and Greater Dandenong have all seen a huge increase in fatal and serious injury collisions involving cyclists recently, as compared to the same time last year and police are urging all road users to stay safe while travelling.

This increased use of bicycles doesn’t always mean safe riding behaviours and both riders and drivers of motor vehicles need to be more conscious of sharing the roads together.

The main cause of fatalities and serious injuries to cyclists include: Failing to wear securely fitted and approved bike helmets Cyclist distraction Non-compliance with road rules and legislation Impaired riding Low visibility of cyclists (not wearing high visibility riding attire/lights) Inexperience riding on roads Bicycles with engines being ridden unsafely and illegally Highway Patrol members across Melbourne’s South East are currently performing Operation Pedal, targeting cyclist offences and cyclist road safety. In the first two days of the operation police identified 35 cyclists undertaking unsafe riding behaviours.

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The cafe, like most, has struggled to stay afloat throughout Melbourne’s lockdowns, and this was the last thing they needed.

Mr Sharma stands in front of the damaged doors.

The thieves smashed the glass front door and ransacked the cafe, stealing booze and cash.

251044

Local cafe ransacked

By Gabriella Payne When local cafe owner Amit Sharma’s phone rang on Thursday morning, 16 September, his heart sank.

Mr Sharma, who owns and operates Oven Kraft, a beloved Pakenham cafe on Henry Road, said that the past 18 months had been a huge struggle for hospitality businesses throughout Melbourne, and the last thing he needed was to wake up to the news that his cafe had been broken into overnight - but that’s the sad reality he faced.

“It’s just sad and shameful that this has happened,“ Mr Sharma said.

“This is the sixth lockdown since I bought this business (back in March 2020), and we are already hanging in there tightly because of this, so it’s just really sad.“ Mr Sharma said that thieves had smashed the glass front door to Oven Kraft at some point during the night, before entering the building and stealing thousands of dollars worth of alcohol and cash.

“I received a call from one of our customers at seven o’clock this morning and they told me that the glass front door was broken and that I might want to come in and check, because they suspected it was a break in,“ he said.

“I came in straight away at seven o’clock, saw the front door was damaged and after entering, discovered that a lot of booze was stolen from our bar area, which equates to probably $3,000 - it was all expensive scotch and whiskies, they were all gone.“ “And unfortunately, normally we don’t leave any cash, but apparently there was some cash left in the till as well last night, roughly around $700 - $800, and that was stolen too,“ he said.

Not only did the thieves get away with plenty of alcohol and money, but they ripped out the till in the process, leaving a trail of destruction behind for Mr Sharma to clean up.

“I’ve got a broken till now which needs to be fixed, plus the glass there - it was all smashed, there was glass everywhere.“ Senior Detective Collin Beard from the Cardinia Criminal Investigations Unit said that the

Amit Sharma said that the break in was yet another blow to his cafe, Oven Kraft, but they would pick up the pieces. police were currently investigating the incident, but noted that there had been a number of similar break-ins in the Pakenham area recently and warned businesses to stay on alert.

Mr Sharma said that he had provided the police with his CCTV footage which he hoped would help catch the culprits, and he hoped

that the thieves would be dealt their fair share of “karma“ for their reckless actions.

“We just want them to know that we are strong and we will stay strong,“ he said.

“The community has been very supportive of us, they have always been, ever since we took over this business and they still are to this

Pictures: GABRIELLA PAYNE

day, so we thank them for sticking by us, and we will overcome this.“ Works are underway to repair the damage as soon as possible, and Oven Kraft remains open for business as usual, so if you’re after a coffee, make sure you pop in and show your support!

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NEWS

Covid exposure sites rise

By Gabriella Payne Victorians have faced a lot of hardships over the past 20 months but as Covid cases continue to rise across the state, residents are being urged to keep on rolling up their sleeves and getting their Covid vaccines as soon as possible.

Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs have recorded a number of new Covid exposure sites in the past few weeks, and anyone who visited these sites at these times is urged to get tested and isolate until they receive a negative result.

As of 1pm on Tuesday 21 September, the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website had listed four tier one and two exposure sites in the Cardinia Shire, listed below.

Anyone who visited any of these exposure sites at these times must get tested urgently and isolate until a negative result is received.

Kooweerup, Woolworths 26 - 65 Station Street. Tier two site - positive case attended

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the store on Saturday 11 September between 3.30pm and 4.05pm.

Pakenham, Market Place Woolworths, 55 Slattery Place. Tier two site - positive case attended the store on Wednesday 15 September between 3.40pm and 4.00pm.

Pakenham, St. Antony Medical Centre, 2-6 Princes Highway. Tier two site, but some people will be tier one contacts - positive case attended the clinic on Thursday 16 September between 3.30pm and 4.05pm.

Pakenham, Coles Pakenham Place Shopping Centre, 67-69 Main Street. A Coles spokesperson confirmed that a team member at the store tested positive for the virus and worked a number of shifts while infectious. These dates and times include: Tuesday 14 September from 5.30pm to 9.00pm Wednesday 15 September from 5.30pm to 9.00pm Thursday 16 September from 5.30pm to 9.00pm

· Friday 17 September from 5.30pm to 9.00pm 18 September from 10.30am to · Saturday 3.00pm Some individuals will be tier one contacts required to quarantine for 14 days and the department will contact them directly with this advice.

Anyone who visited the Coles store during these times will be tier two contacts who must get tested urgently and isolate until a negative result is received.

The Casey Hospital Emergency Department and the Timbertop Reserve Playground, both in Berwick, have also been listed as exposure sites and are featured on the DHHS website.

Berwick, Casey Hospital Emergency Department - Waiting Room, 62-70 Kangan Drive.

Tier one site - positive case attended the hospital’s waiting room on Tuesday 14 September between 8:28pm and 11:36pm.

Berwick, Casey Hospital Emergency Department - Main Department 62-70 Kangan Drive. Tier two site - positive case attended

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the hospital’s main department on Tuesday 14 September between 11:36pm and 11:59pm.

Berwick, Casey Hospital Emergency Department - Main Department. Tier two site - positive case attended the hospital’s main department on Wednesday 15 September between 12:00am and 2:10am.

Berwick, Casey Hospital Emergency Department - Adult Short Stay Unit. Tier one site - positive case attended the hospital’s adult short stay unit on Wednesday 15 September between 2:10am and 2:26pm.

Berwick, Timbertop Reserve Playground, Parkhill Drive. Tier two site - positive case attended on Thursday 9 September between 9:30am - 11:00am.

For more information on exposure sites, head to the DHHS website which is updated regularly at https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov. au/case-alerts-public-exposure-sites

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What’s on festival coming to Cardinia Planning is in full swing for Cardinia Shire’s first What’s On Cardinia Festival.

The month-long festival will celebrate all things Cardinia Shire, designed to showcase local art, creatives and businesses to our community and the wider region.

The festival will promote local artists/creatives to perform and display in venues and businesses around the Shire including the Cardinia Cultural Centre in Pakenham and the Hills Hub in Emerald.

Once restrictions have eased, the festival

will begin; however, the planning is well underway.

The shire is seeking to engage with local creatives who want to be part of the What’s on Cardinia Festival and match them with local business via EOI’s which can be found at the link listed below.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Brett Owen is encouraging businesses and local creatives to put their hand up to be involved in our What’s On Cardinia Festival.

“This has been an incredibly challenging

year for not only our businesses but also our local creatives and this upcoming festival is one-way council can help to bring the community together,” Cr Owen said.

“Whether you are a musician who wants to play a gig, a visual artist who wants to exhibit or a business who would like to welcome a creative into your venue, we want to hear from you.

“What’s On Cardinia Festival will be a showcase of all things Cardinia Shire and an opportunity for us to reconnect as the vibrant community which we are.

“I encourage businesses and creatives to jump online and sign up to be part of this amazing festival.”

For more and to register an EOI, visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/whatsoncardiniafestival.

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Thursday, 23 September, 2021

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OPINION

LENSCAPE

Motorists are asked to allow extra time for their journey.

Picture: FILE

Roadwork closures

By Danielle Kutchel Site investigation works are continuing for the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road upgrade.

From Tuesday 21 September to Thursday 21 October, crews will conduct site investigations on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road between Thompsons Road and the South Gippsland Highway and on Berwick-Cranbourne Road between Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road and Broad Oak Drive.

The works will take place on weekdays between 7am and 5pm.

The investigation works are ahead of construction starting in early 2022, and will allow crews to understand the ground conditions and locate underground utilities.

During this time, there will be lane and shoulder closures and speed reductions in place.

Motorists are asked to follow on-road signage and traffic controllers’ instructions and allow extra time for their journey.

Getting the scoop at Augustus Gelatery, Cranbourne West. 251179

Battin ‘beyond the pale’ The letter from Brad Battin MP (Berwick Star News 16 September) is, in my opinion, disgraceful. To use the names of road traffic accidents in such a manner is beyond the pale.

For a Member of Parliament to scoff and sneer at speed limits - a proven fact world-wide in saving lives - illustrates one of two things: the man is ignorant, or he is playing politics to

To the construction and building industry workers who don’t want to do the right thing and have now forced the State Government to penalise those in the industry who have done or are in process of doing the right thing.

Thumbs down

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To the scenes in the city tonight.

Seeing that poor dog kicked was horrific... can’t believe what is happening.

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Thumbs down To our local school who has just sent out correspondence saying that when staggered learning comes into effect, students who were onsite for schooling as arranged between the school and essential working parents will only be able to attend on their two allotted days. So, if your kids are allotted to go on Tuesday and Wednesday and you work Monday, Thursday and Friday and can’t supervise them you either have to make other arrangements or take those days off. I’m sorry but that’s just not good enough.

Thumbs up

Thumbs down

For the grand final - go Doggies.

To the road map no plan.

Thumbs down To being allowed to go further to do nothing.

Thumbs up To the weather we have been having.

Thumbs down To violence from both sides of the protests over the last few days.

Thumbs down To the idiots protesting and getting construction shut down.

NEWS

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Australian owned family business since 1979.

slower speed. I watch in horror daily as drivers ignore stop signs, continuous white lines, slow down signs (innumerable in The Dandenongs) and refuse to use turning signals properly, yet Brad Battin imagines the blame for all road accidents lies solely at the feet of the current government.

Were the Liberals never in government in Victoria?

Declan Foley

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Major thumbs down

Pakenham Berwick Cranbourne Drouin

gain advantage from people in distress.

99.9 per cent of road traffic accidents are caused by drivers. Having lived and worked in Ireland, the UK and Australia as an undertaker and a chauffeur driving innumerable thousands of kilometres, I have (thankfully), at 71 years, never been involved in a serious road accident.

The oldest rule in driving is ’to drive to the conditions you are in’ : i.e poor road means

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Hackathon is on Year 11 and 12 students in Ballarat, Berwick, Gippsland, and Brisbane are putting their business and tech skills to the test in a virtual hackathon for the chance to secure a scholarship to study Australia’s first degree in Cognitive Enterprise at Federation University Australia.

As part of the online event on Thursday 23 September, students curious about disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain, worked in teams to solve business problems in a creative and innovative way.

They were mentored by staff from global technology company IBM, Federation Business School lecturers and other industry experts to come up with business ideas using these new technologies.

Students pitch their ideas at the end of the day and the winning team of up to four members will each receive a $3000 scholarship for their first year of study in Federation University’s new Bachelor of Cognitive Enterprise degree in 2022 or 2023, should they enrol in the program.

Thursday, 23 September, 2021

Federation University’s Berwick campus.

Picture: SUPPLIED A Cognitive Enterprise is a business that uses disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), automation, blockchain technology (which supports cryptocurrency) and 5G to transform and innovate.

The degree, developed in collaboration with IBM focuses on how these disruptive technologies can be used to innovate across all areas of business – from marketing, IT, man-

agement, banking and finance, to social and environmental sciences.

The Bachelor of Cognitive Enterprise can also be studied online.

Students will be able to gain real-world experience through internships and earn IBM Digital Badges (certifications) in blockchain technology and AI. Federation Business School Dean Professor Christina Lee said the hackathon was a good opportunity for students to see if the degree was right for them.

“It’s hands-on learning where students can actively use technology to solve problems and potentially secure a scholarship for their first year of university,“ she said.

“We want prospective students to know a degree in Cognitive Enterprise is more than an IT course.

“They will learn valuable skills in analysis and decision making, creativity and innovation, entrepreneurship, digital business and general management – skills essential for any business.” pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Hoons in the police gun

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Three men have been charged over obstructing police at a crowded hoon event in Lynbrook four months ago.

Police had observed a Holden Commodore dropping burnouts in front of a large crowd at the corner of Business Park and Commercial drives about 11 pm on 11 May. Highway Patrol officers were allegedly blocked by spectators as they tried to intercept the vehicle.

Several people allegedly kicked and jumped on the police car during the incident.

After three police raids on Thursday 16 September, three men were charged by Cardinia and Casey Highway Patrol officers in Noble Park, Longwarry and Hampton Park.

A 24-year-old Noble Park man and a 24-year-old Longwarry man were charged with intentionally obstructing an emergency service worker and assisting an offender.

A 20-year-old Hampton Park man was charged with intimidation of law enforcement officer, intentionally obstructing an emergency service worker, assisting an offender and causing criminal damage.

The trio were bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 13 December.

On Friday 17 September, police conducted raids in Mernda, Berwick and Pakenham in relation to hooning in Pakenham between April and August.

Three men aged 50, 21 and 19 years, were arrested and charged with reckless conduct

endangering life, drive in a manner dangerous and drive vehicle cause loss of traction.

Three cars were also seized, which will be subject to forfeiture applications, police say.

The men have been bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 4 March.

A 16-year-old boy was charged with reckless conduct endangering life, drive in a manner dangerous and drive vehicle cause loss of traction.

He was bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

Acting Inspector Dean Grande, from Victoria Police, said police had “zero tolerance for any form of high risk driving – whether you are a participant, spectator or organizer”.

“Police will continue to use all available intelligence to identify you, arrest you and charge you.

“Police’s number one priority is the safety of our community and if you choose to engage in behaviour which puts other road users at risk of serious injury, we will put you before the courts and we will ask for jail time.”

On the night of the Lynbrook hooning, police intercepted the Commodore and arrested its occupants.

A 19-year-old driver was charged with reckless conduct endangering life/serious injury, dangerous driving while pursued, drive in a manner dangerous and drive vehicle cause loss of traction.

He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 17 December.

This little swan is all tired out after a long day.

Pictures: REG CASEY

Just swanning around It’s safe to say that most kids love piggyback rides from their parents - and it seems this doesn’t apply to just human kids!

The incredibly cute cygnets that have been wandering around town recently are growing up very quickly, but it seems even they want their parents to carry them home sometimes.

Local photographer Reg Casey snapped these stunning shots of the baby swans hitching a ride at Pakenham’s Lakeside lake on the evening of Wednesday 15 September - clearly all tuckered out after a hard day of playing in the water!

Reg has been showcasing his skills around town this lockdown, putting his Canon 90d camera (with a 600mm lens) to good use and delighting locals with his talents (as he often shares his work online for others to enjoy).

These pictures certainly brought a smile to our faces - so thanks for sharing Reg!

Riding home in style!

‘Mum, can you carry me home?’

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Thursday, 23 September, 2021

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STAR NEWS 7

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The striking dragon head.

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Flynn, 4, on one of the many climbing stuctures.

Dragon Park fires up A giant dragon is the centrepiece of a new playground in Officer.

Located in the Arcadia estate, Dragon Park is an all-abilities play space spanning nearly one hectare.

There is a climbing net leading into the mouth of the giant dragon and to a large slide!

There are also smaller slides that stem from its body.

The playground also features a variety of climbing structures, swings and a motion carousel.

Dragon Park is already proving popular, according to a post on the Arcadia Facebook page.

“The Park is experiencing a high number of visitors. We encourage people to continue to follow government rules and obey traffic rules.

If there is no parking available, consider that the Park is already too full and to return on another day or time,” the post read.

“There are many other great parks throughout the Arcadia community and the local area to visit if the Dragon Park appears to be overcrowded.”

Arcadia has also urged people not to visit the park if it’s outside their 5km radius.

“The Dragon Park is not going away and will be around to enjoy for years to come.”

Dragon Park spans nearly one hectare.

The dragon’s body.

Lauren with Arlo, aged 18 months.

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NEWS In the first of a series of articles, reporter DANIELLE KUTCHEL looks at the plight of refugees who have settled predominantly in Melbourne’s South East.

Resettled: Journey’s pain According to the Red Cross, Australia granted refugee status to close to 15,000 people in the 2019-2020 financial year.

Many of these people make their home in Melbourne’s south east – an area that’s been a melting pot of newcomers for well over 100 years with more than 130 different languages being spoken in Greater Dandenong alone.

I’ve had the opportunity to speak with many of these new Australians over several years, and their stories of the battles they’ve faced to come to the country are unfathomable.

And while the physical scars of torture, starvation and stress may fade, the mental scars can remain.

Getting out of their home country is often fraught with danger.

Sam* was 19, about to turn 20, when he arrived in Australia.

Prior to that he had lived in Pakistan after his family made their escape from Afghanistan.

While he was not technically a refugee to Australia, his experience shows just how terrifying it can be to leave a warzone; he tells a harrowing tale of violence, fear and discrimination.

He was just 13 when his family left Afghanistan in the midst of a brutal conflict after the collapse of the communist state.

He says he “witnessed a lot of trauma” – from dead bodies to constant moving due to the endless fighting.

Finally, one of the rockets hit his neighbour’s house while he was outside playing.

Sam remembers dust and screaming.

His family left the following day.

He recalls a frantic escape on a bus to Jalalabad. On the way, the bus was stopped by what he describes as a group of terrorists, who singled the young Sam out and mocked him, threatening him with harm and potentially death.

From Jalalabad, he and his family were crammed into trucks that carried them secretly over the border into Peshawar, in Pakistan.

“People were vomiting, there was a very bad smell, and not enough oxygen because they closed the door of the truck,” he remembered.

Many of those on the truck lost track of family members who stayed behind in Afghanistan.

They faced discrimination in Pakistan, where the local population treated Afghans with contempt. Police officers regularly bribed any Afghan people they came across.

The family spent years in poverty as getting a job as an Afghan wasn’t easy.

But it wasn’t until later in life that these challenges caught up with Sam. In 2013, here in Australia, he had the first of

Dr Judy Tang from the Victorian Multicultural Commission. a string of major panic attacks.

Medical professionals diagnosed him with severe anxiety and depression, traced at least partly back to his experience as a child in Afghanistan.

“There are a lot of other people who migrate from country to country and they’re OK

Picture: SUPPLIED

with certain challenges, but probably I was not mentally ready,” Sam mused.

It’s not just the journey itself that can pose challenges; it’s also what lies ahead at the end.

Australia’s policy of indefinite detention for asylum seekers has seen people locked in detention centres for years.

It’s worth noting that Australia is a party to the United Nations’ Convention and Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees, and that seeking asylum in Australia is not illegal.

Through conversations with advocates over several months, it’s clear that many of those locked away in Australia’s immigration detention face deteriorating mental health.

When they are released, advocates have told me that these refugees are broken people: unsure of how to operate in the world and how to pick up the pieces in a new country.

Whether their mental ill-health has been caused by the system, or whether the system has exacerbated pre-existing conditions, is hard to determine.

Dr Judy Tang is a clinical neuropsychologist and a commissioner at the Victorian Multicultural Commission, and has worked with refugees who face mental health challenges.

She says the impact of immigration detention on mental health depends on the person.

“Not everyone who has gone through traumatic experiences ends up developing mental illness or having mental health difficulties,” she explained.

“But definitely the experience can put a lot more people closer to the threshold of developing mental health difficulties.

“It’s perfectly understandable to assume that for a lot of people that traumatic experience will impact on them.”

She recalled speaking to one person who had been kept in immigration detention for several years and who had, prior to that, been incarcerated as a prisoner of war.

Stuck behind bars for much of their young adult life, the person had told Dr Tang that they felt as though they had lost the most important years of their life.

Dr Tang said it’s just one example of how the refugee experience can negatively impact on someone.

She said there should be more consideration of that impact on refugees and asylum seekers.

“We need to acknowledge that the journey they’ve had can have negative consequences and we need to support them through that and not assume that now that they’re here, everything is OK,” she said.

Part two of this story will explore some of the barriers that refugees and asylum seekers face in accessing support for their mental health once they arrive in Australia. *Not his real name. Sam wanted to withhold his name as he does not want to add to the worry of his community.

If you need to speak with someone, please contact: Lifeline - 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue. org.au

· ·

Sam is very focused on service and proud of his state of the art workshop for all repairs, which include jewellery, watches and clocks.

Your weekly guide to what’s (still!) on in Cardinia

Sam loves giving new life to tired jewellery, and is delighted to see the smiles on customers’ faces, when they see their re-imaged pieces.

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Thursday, 23 September, 2021

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STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

Have your say on reserve The Casey community is invited to help shape the City of Casey’s redevelopment of Ray Bastin Reserve in Narre Warren by providing feedback on how the park can be rejuvenated and improved.

The 4.5 hectare regional park currently includes a regional all abilities playground, skate park, dirt BMX track, open lawn areas, public facilities including barbecue, shelter, seating and social spaces, public toilet, and paths, landscaped and bushland areas.

A number of areas are due to be updated, in particular the rocket-ship themed playground that was constructed in 2003 that is now in a poor condition and requires replacement.

The first phase of the redevelopment is proposed to begin in the 2022/23 financial year subject to funding being secured.

However, before any plans are developed Casey Council would like to hear from the

community about the elements they currently enjoy at the reserve, any new elements they would like to see introduced, as well as any improvements they would like to see made.

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff said community spaces like Ray Bastin Reserve were central to the wellbeing of residents, providing opportunities for exercise, sport, play and social interaction.

“Ray Bastin Reserve is a well used and wellloved park with something for residents of all ages and all abilities,” Ms Duff said.

“We know that some elements at the reserve, in particular the playground, need replacing or updating.

“However, before we undertake this work, we want to hear from those who use the space, what they like about it and any improvements they would like to see.”

The playground in the reserve was built

nearly 20 years ago around a space theme, Ms Duff said.

“We are now interested in hearing about new themes and the types of play and recreation activities that people of all ages and abilities would like to do at Ray Bastin Reserve to inform its future redevelopment.”

She encouraged residents to complete the survey to share their ideas.

A survey has also been created for children and young people to complete, or alternatively they can upload drawings of their ideal park.

Consultation closes on Monday 18 October.

Everyone who completes the survey is also eligible to go into the draw to win one of three $50 Westfield shopping vouchers.

Complete the survey at conversations. casey.vic.gov.au/ray-bastin-reserve-redevelopment

The playground at Ray Bastin Reserve.

Appointments for school upgrades

Gary Maas MP on a pre-Covid visit to Brentwood Park Primary School.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Students at Brentwood Park Primary School and Hampton Park Primary School are a step closer to getting the facilities they need for a great schooling experience.

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas announced that Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp Pty Ltd has been appointed architect to design Brentwood Park Primary School’s $3.46 million upgrade.

This upgrade is part of the Victorian Government’s Capital Works Fund 2021/22 and will upgrade and modernise the school, including the art and music building.

Better facilities are also on the way for students at Hampton Park Primary School with Ducon Maintenance Pty Ltd appointed

to deliver the school’s new community hub space.

The Minor Capital Works Fund 2020/21 allocated $264,625 towards this project which will provide an enhanced learning and social environment for students, staff, teachers and the community.

More than 300 Victorian government schools have been allocated funding to fasttrack priority projects under the Minor Capital Works Fund to improve learning environments as well as the condition and character of schools.

Mr Maas welcomed the news for both schools.

“Brentwood Park Primary School is a fan-

tastic local school and the appointment of Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp Pty Ltd to design their $3.46 million upgrade is another step towards this project becoming a reality for their staff, students and teachers,“ Mr Maas said.

“Hampton Park Primary School will soon see their community hub taking shape as Ducon Maintenance Pty Ltd start their work to deliver this important facility.

“The State Government will continue investing in our local schools to ensure that our students receive the best education in the best learning environments.”

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The best of Book Week

By Danielle Kutchel The three winners of the Casey Cardinia Libraries Book Week dress-up competition have been announced.

Officer local Smaran took out first prize for his creative rendition of a famous scene from one of his favourite books, Gulliver’s Travels.

Berwick resident Zach was second for recreating the cover of one of his favourites, Lost and Found.

And Emily took out third place for her glamourous Fancy Nancy costume, winning a $25 Robinson’s Bookshop voucher.

Smaran’s mum Arpitha said the whole family was “delighted” to find out he had won.

Smaran picked up a $100 Robinson Bookshop voucher for his creativity and immediately decided he would use it to buy some Paw Patrol books.

Arbitha said Smaran planned to share the books with his older brother.

She said Gulliver’s Travels is one of Smaran’s favourite books, and he especially enjoys the “concept of Lilliput” with its little people.

The whole family got involved in creating the costume using a blanket, skipping rope and Lego figurines.

For Zach and his mum Lina, the competition was the perfect boredom buster during lockdown.

They recreated the cover image of one of Zach’s favourite books, Lost and Found, using cardboard boxes to create the iconic suitcase, umbrella and penguin.

Zach loves reading books, and Lina said she was happy to encourage him.

“It fosters their imagination and gets them to be creative,” she said.

Zach hasn’t yet chosen what to spend his $50 Robinson’s Bookshop voucher on, but his mum said they are looking forward to seeing what they can choose from.

First place winner Smaran dressed as Gulliver.

Emily looking glamourous as Fancy Nancy.

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Thursday, 23 September, 2021

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STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

Farm officer Debbie Andrews with 80-year-old veteran Joey the cockatoo. 250804

Muscovy ducklings, which were born two weeks ago. 250804

Farm springs with Myuna A bouncing bevy of spring-time newborns are showing that life goes on at Myuna Farm.

The popular farm at Doveton is closed to the public during the pandemic but its stables and paddocks are teeming with goat kids, ducklings, emu chicks and lambs.

Farm programs officer Kate Wilson said two sets of triplets were born within hours of each other on 22 August.

“One (was) to Mona, our Saanen dairy goat, and a few hours later, Mona’s mum Sugar, gave birth to another set of triplets.

“Soon after, our male emu, who had been sitting on a clutch of eggs for over 60 days, welcomed two emu chicks to add to our growing brood.”

The farm has been featuring its newborns on its Facebook page.

Its volunteers have also been busy cleaning paddocks, maintaining buildings and caring for the animals.

A kid goat frolics in their playground. 250804

A three-week-old goat kids around on the seesaw. 250804

A young family of sheep. 250804

A mother gets her ducklings in a row. 250804 16 STAR NEWS

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Two-week-old lambs have joined the farm’s flocks. 250804

A handsome pair of month-old emu chicks. 250804

Thursday, 23 September, 2021

Myuna Farm officer Debbie Andrews with emu chicks. 250804 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

The ribbons are a touching symbol of solidarity. 250372

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Ribbons of recognition

By Danielle Kutchel Hampton Park Secondary College is standing in solidarity with the Afghan community, with students and staff tying ribbons to the school’s fence in recognition of the situation in Afghanistan.

In a series of posts on its Facebook page, the school explained that it is placing ribbons in the colours of the Afghan and Australian flags on its fence, to show support and compassion for the wider Afghan community.

Members of the school community are invited to tie their own ribbons on the fence too. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

A sign on the fence explains the reasoning for the ribbons. 250372

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“I know everyone in Cranbourne will be grateful for the service of Andrew Bergmeier, Gregory Lacey, Monica Curnow and Michael Bragge. Their dedication and passion has helped so many kids reach their potential and have exciting and rewarding lives,“ Ms Richards said.

While coronavirus restrictions have made it impossible to hold a ceremony to recognise the service of these long-serving staff members, recipients will receive a personalised Certificate of Recognition and commemorative booklet.

KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY

combined service:

Bergmeier, principal, Cranbourne · Andrew West Primary School – 50 years.

Lacey, principal, Lyndhurst Primary · Gregory School – 45 years.

Curnow, Courtenay Gardens Prima· Monica ry School – 45 years.

Bragge, Cranbourne Secondary Col· Michael lege – 45 years.

Are you holding a

KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY - LOCAL FAVOURITE - BE KIND COMMUNITY - KINDNESS IS KEY

Cranbourne West Primary School, Lyndhurst Primary School, Courtenay Gardens Primary School and Cranbourne Secondary College are home to four of Victoria’s longest-serving school staff.

They’re among hundreds of Victorian teachers, principals, school administrators and policy makers being recognised for their long-serving dedication to students and families, through the Recognition of Service to Victorian Education program.

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards congratulated 342 staff each being honoured for more than 40 years of service to Victorian education, acknowledging their dedication, hard work and persistence over many decades – and particularly their resilience and support for their school communities during the pandemic.

The following local teachers are being recognised for more than 185 years of

Come in and grab a cuppa before you walk around the lake.

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Celebration of service

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Andrew Bergmeier, principal of Cranbourne West Primary School, with Pauline Richards MP in a pre-Covid picture.

Picture: SUPPLIED

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Thursday, 23 September, 2021

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STAR NEWS 17

NEWS

Warmth wakes snakes With the weather warming up, snakes are starting to emerge from their winter hibernation to bask in the sun and search for food and a mate.

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) senior wildlife management officer, Rebecca Dixon said the spring weather has brought snakes out of their hibernation across the state.

“Snake species commonly found in Greater Melbourne include the Eastern Brown Snake, and to a lesser extent, Red-bellied Black Snake and Tiger Snake,” she said.

“Snakes are more common around the urban fringe or in rural parts of Victoria, but they can also be found close to cities and towns, particularly around watercourses and parkland.

“Wear long pants while out walking and stick to paths, particularly in areas near long grass or water.”

In most encounters with humans, a snake will seek the fastest escape route and take-off.

However, if cornered and feeling threatened, a snake will defend itself.

“Most snake bites occur when people try to capture or kill a snake,“ Ms Dixon said.

To keep your pets and the local wildlife safe, keep dogs on a leash while out walking.

If your dog or cat encounters a snake, the best course of action is to remove your pet from the area or tie it up while the snake passes and if you suspect your pet has been bitten take it to a vet immediately.

“Snakes are generally very shy and prefer to keep away from people. When a snake is found in a backyard it’s because it’s moving through the area to other habitat,” she said.

“Whether you’re exercising outdoors or gardening, be aware that snakes may be around, and make sure you’re informed about how to react if you encounter one.”

A brown snake. Snakes are beginning to come out of hibernation.

If you live in an area with snakes, please remember: When left alone, snakes present little to no danger to people.

If you see a snake, keep calm and move yourself and anyone with you (including pets) away from the area.

Don’t attempt to capture or harm snakes. In-

· · ·

· ·

stead call DELWP on 136 186 for further advice or for details of a nearby snake catcher.

Maintain lawns and clean up around your house, as snakes are attracted to shelter such as piles of rocks and timber, sheets of metal, and building materials.

Undertake first aid training and ensure your first aid kit contains several compression

bandages. If someone is bitten, call 000 immediately.

Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and it is illegal to harm, kill or capture them without authority.

Reports of people willfully destroying protected wildlife will be investigated by the Conservation Regulator.

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Stirring trouble

By Mitchell Clarke

Stirring trouble

By Mitchell Clarke It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing any-

It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing anything but joy.

During the one hour exercise limit - which is now a distant memory - Spoonville sites across Cardinia Shire were the most popular place to visit.

Despite the fad having died down entirely, the Cardinia Lakes community was understandably upset at news their local site appeared to have been targeted by cruel vandals.

Estate resident Laksika noticed the destroyed site during her daily walk on Sunday 24 January.

“I think someone has just walked over it or kicked them all over. It’s very sad to see it. We always used to stop there and have a look for new ones,” she wrote on Facebook.

The reaction from her neighbours was similar.

“Absolutely disgusting. The highlight of our walk is our toddler stopping to look and admire the spoons,” one local woman said.

“That’s so disappointing. My kids had spoons in there,” another woman added.

Pakenham Hills Ward councillor Jack Kowarzik said the news was “really frustrating”.

“Spoonville was created by locals for the enjoyment of local children and to see it vandalised is disappointing,” he said.

Cardinia Art Society president Jillian Ronald described Spoonville as an “amazing initiative” during Melbourne’s lengthy lockdown.

“It’s given joy and positivity in some very dark times and I just think it’s really disappointing that, when the community put together a project to support each other during a difficult time, that someone would take the trouble to destroy it. They’d be better off going home to create a spoon and putting it with

In happier times - Maci, Willow and Aubrey at a Pakenham Spoonville site. 214450 the rest,” she said.

“I’d suggest there’s much better things they could do with their time.”

The ‘Spoonville’ trend was born out of Winnersh, England, in an attempt to improve mental health by simply making people happy as they were out and about during daily exercise.

The quirky saga soon made its way to Cardinia - after Australia’s first ever site was constructed up the highway in Longwarry.

Within weeks, the site had spread to Pakenham, Officer, Garfield, Nar Nar Goon, Emerald and Beaconsfield.

Ms Ronald acknowledged the Spoonville craze had now hit a dead end.

“They’re getting a little bit tired, so maybe it’s time for the spoons to come home,” she said.

Ms Ronald, who commissioned the two local sites at Lakeside in Pakenham, encouraged community members to collect their spoons from their local sites.

She added that in mid-February she’d look to clean up all remaining Spoonville’s and relocate any leftover spoons to an “undisclosed location”.

The once popular Spoonville trend appears to have hit a dead end.

Picture: FACEBOOK

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Thursday, 28 January, 2021

The City of Casey 2021 Ageing Positively Festival is an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate older generations and the many ways our seniors contribute to our diverse community.

The City of Casey invites seniors to join it throughout October to explore new skills and hobbies, get active, reconnect with friends—and make new ones too!

Held each year in conjunction with the Victorian Seniors Festival, the 2020 Ageing Positively Festival was unfortunately cancelled due to Covid-19.

However, the good news is that it is back this year in a modified format reflecting the ongoing pandemic situation.

The 2021 Festival has been redesigned to ensure the safety of all community members and to comply with State Government restrictions.

In October, the council, community groups and organisations across Casey will host a variety of events and activities, mostly online.

The program includes exhibitions and theatre, wellness, art and music classes, a gardening forum and other opportunities to connect socially and there’s even compe-

titions— including storytelling and art.

This means that a significant number of events have moved to an online format accessible from the comfort and safety of your home, regardless of restrictions, with fewer in-person activities.

However, it has been re-designed without compromising the opportunity to find enjoyment and connection with others – for example the ukulele, tai-chi, and Zumba classes have pivoted from live events to online but still look to be great fun.

To help attendees participate online, the City of Casey is offering technology support. To enquire call 9705 5200 and ask to speak to an access and inclusion officer.

There will also be Getting to Know Zoom’ sessions running from 27 to 29 September, details in the festival program.

Be sure to grab your copy of the festival brochure online and register free to join the festival on Friday 1 October for a special online premiere screening of the Bunjil Place edition of Truth to Power Cafe, which will launch the 2021 festival.

For more information, visit casey.vic.gov. au/ageing-positively-festival pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Satisfying customers TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH

Bill Gates once said: “Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning”, which highlights that not only is it really important to know (or at least try to find out), just how satisfied your customers are with what you do, but you also need to know what is not going right so that you can do something about it. customer service is not only an important thing to do, but it also has a measurable bottom-line impact!

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ly and satisfactorily (source: International Customer Service Association).

3. A dissatisfied customer will tell between 9-15 people about their experience. Around 13 per cent of dissatisfied customers tell more than 20 people (source: White House Office of Consumer Affairs).

4. Australian businesses lose on average around $720 per bad customer experience (source: Ernst and Young).

5. 70 per cent of buying experiences are based on how the customer feels they are being treated (source: McKinsey).

6. 55 per cent of customers would pay extra to guarantee a better service (source: Defaqto research).

7. A customer is four times more likely to defect to a competitor if the problem is service-related than price- or product-related (source: Bain & Company).

8. It costs 6-7 times more to acquire a new customer than retain an existing one (source: Bain & Company).

9- Increasing customer retention by five per cent can increase profits from 25-95% (source: www.outboundengine.com/blog/ customer-retention-marketing-vs-customer-acquisition-marketing 10.It takes 12 positive experiences to make up for one unresolved negative experience.

Source Understanding Customers by Ruby Newell-Legner.

Clearly this stuff matters. Focusing on great

Dir ty on dining

By Gabriella Payne

Pop-up dining spaces sprang up throughout the city last year as Covid safe practices restaurants and forced cafes to turn to the streets for space, and after a successful summer initiative is set to run, the be months - a decisionextended over the coming that has left some munity members comvery unhappy.

The pop-up outdoor dining program originally developed was as a way for businesses to adapt to the ever-changing Covid ronment and saw temporary platformsenviseating areas quite and literally “pop up” Cardinia, with seating around spaces in many areas, taking over car parking including in Pakenham’s Main Street.

Whilst many people are enjoying making use of the new al fresco spaces, longtime enham local and Pakactive community Jack Mitchell said member that the lack of cleanliness and maintenance of the Main Street was “an absolute disgrace” and neededspaces addressed by the to be council.

“I travel all over the state and I have seen a main street never in as bad a shape Street, Pakenham,” as Main Mr Mitchell said.

“It’s just dreadful, everywhere, there’s there are cigarette butts bird and the street pavementspoo all over the place Outdoor dining spaces are falling apart. are proving quite “Why anybody divisive along Pakenham’s would want to Main Street now go to the Main Street. is beyond me,” Mr Mitchell said.

Picture: CARDINIA The other, less glamorous SHIRE COUNCIL view of the Main Street outdoor dining Mr Mitchell has be going anywhere lived in the area area. anytime soon, as since 2004 dinia Shire and said he has the Carraised Picture: JACK MITCHELL dinia Shire Council this issue with the Car- sions of Council are now calling for expres- dining spaces had proved popular interest for businesses mer and helped over many times, but avail. to support businesses sum- the shops - but it’s to no new, free “parklets” to apply mainly the dirtiness after a the problem,” - hoping to see more for difficult year. that’s “They told me porary outdoor he said. temthat they’ve got seating areas spring “Outdoor dining but it’s just getting big plans, Cardinia.

“We have this big, certainly brought up across the worse,” he said. low-hanging tree a buzz to and streets of the shire outside all these parrots following a tough “Taking away the Cardinia Mayor keep coming along year.

It’s great to see parking out the Brett Owen said making a mess. of the shops for and the community front a successful summer that after Cardinia some embrace venues and show trial of the parklets, unbelievable - most outdoor seating is just council Yesterday the council them some much the needed love,” were excited of the seats can’t came because she said. used.” complained to even be ing areas installed to see more outdoor dinwe them and they But the owner and throughout the area. said ‘yes, it’s very dirty’, but Mr Mitchell said “We trialled the they told us that Kebabs, Sam Bayraktar operator of Pakenham clean that the council parklet concept we should sending “someone should be mer in it up.” told over Star News that he sum- and other business Pakenham and we’re down there to clean as the council are owners on Main now on the look- that it up” out for new Mr Bayraktar said Street felt “accountable” for the restaurants, cafes that the area had the spaces are worthwhile ensuring the shire ly become “a dumping recentand bars across saster outdoor seating areas had been that would love to “a difor us”. ground” for people and usable if they are going to be taking leave rubbish and host a parklet from to March onwards,” Cr Owen unwanted junk as up car parking spots.

“It’s a total mess,” said. that he didn’t have well, and Mr Bayraktar said.

However, the pop-up Councillor Tammy the resources or “We can’t even use dining spaces won’t to be cleaning up the time the seating, it’s so highly of the concept, Radford also spoke less. the “ridiculous” point- side. mess outstating that the al fresco First of all we lost “It’s become more our car parks in of a dumping ground front of and an eyesore than something nice,” he said.

“About Children, Being Children”

202102197591_1-SN09-21

How satisfied are your customers with what you provide?

Do you know what they would say about your products and/or services and how can you be sure that you are really meeting their needs?

I suspect that for many of us it is a case of ‘no news is good news’, but is this really true?

Bill Gates once said: “Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning”, which highlights that not only is it really important to know (or at least try to find out), just how satisfied your customers are with what you do, but you also need to know what is not going right so that you can do something about it.

Personally, whenever I get service that is particularly good or particularly bad, I do make a point of feeding this back, not to be flattering or awkward but simply so that the business knows to either continue doing what it is doing or consider changing the way it serves its customers.

Several years ago, I had the opportunity to provide customer service training to local businesses through an initiative created by Cardinia Shire Council.

Although I already had some useful material, I decided to do some further research into this to provide some quantitative insight into why this matters and found some fascinating statistics on this so here are 10 key ones: 1. Only four per cent of customers complain - 96 per cent just go away and 91 per cent never come back (source: www.marketconnectionsinc.com/dangerous-silent-cusomer 2. 68 per cent of customers stop doing business with a company because of poor service. Yet 95 per cent of dissatisfied customers would continue to do business with a company if their problem was solved quick-

GS OUR HILLS, HASTIN arten PAKENHAM, ENDEAV • Childcare and Kinderg SOUTH AND FRANKSTON

For all enquiries please phone 5922 or email info@fel.vic. 2040 edu.au

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NEWS

Mary the Common Wombat (age 14) with keeper Brodie Zealand.

Mary gives us a smile!

Pictures: MPNG/GARY SISSONS

Moonlit celebrations Pearcedale’s much-loved Moonlit Sanctuary has marked two decades of bringing people and wildlife together – and even the animals got a chance to celebrate.

On Friday 17 September the sanctuary celebrated its 20th anniversary with special ‘cakes’ made of sweet potato, meat or insects served up to the koalas, dingoes, wombats and emu.

Sanctuary founder Michael Johnson said Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park grew out of his childhood dreams.

He imagined a place where people could experience the rare and unusual animals that

roam the Australian bush, and Moonlit Sanctuary is that place.

The sanctuary was established by the Johnson family in September 2001 on 25 acres of land, the site of a former farm and pony club.

Currently, Moonlit Sanctuary is home to over 400 inhabitants, from 70 species.

Mr Johnson said it had been “quite a journey” over the past 20 years.

“We’ve won the Victorian Tourism Awards five times as well as awards for our conservation work so it’s very satisfying,” he said.

But the most satisfying part, he added, was to have been able to contribute to conserva-

tion in a significant way.

“We’re done it with the orange bellied parrot, regent honeyeaters and stone curlews as well, and we’re starting to do that with some other animals too,” he said.

“We give people a great experience and contribute to conservation at the same time – that’s a win-win isn’t it?”

The sanctuary initially operated by providing night tours to the public; hence the name, Moonlit Sanctuary.

In 2007 the sanctuary began opening during the daytime on a daily basis, expanding its number of animals and welcoming 80,000 visitors a year.

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Prior to Covid closures, the Sanctuary was receiving more than 150,000 visitors annually, and is still proving to be a favourite day out with Victorian families continuing to show their support when able.

Mr Johnson said the sanctuary was looking forward to reopening and continuing its work.

“We are honouring this major milestone and are grateful to the community who helped us get there,” Mr Johnson said.

“We are elated to be celebrating our role in connecting people with wildlife since the sanctuary first opened 20 years ago.”

Find out more at moonlitsanctuary.com.au

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CALL: Thursday, 23 September, 2021

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฀ STAR NEWS 21

SPORT

Cricket on the front foot

By Nick Creely The local cricket season is looking at a potential mid to late November start after the Victorian Government released its roadmap out of Covid-19 lockdowns.

Premier Daniel Andrews announced on Sunday several key dates - based off vaccination targets and projections - that related to the return of community sport and hopefully an uninterrupted summer in both Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria Step 1 from 26 September - based off an 80 per cent first dose rate - will see certain recreation and outdoor activities return with the same limits on picnics, such as social basketball, golf, tennis, cricket and other outdoor activities.

However, the major shift comes from 26 October, with the caveat that 70 per cent of over 16s have received a double-dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, which will see outdoor community sport permitted for training only, and only the minimum number required. Changing rooms will remain closed.

But competition will not be permitted until at least 5 November, in which Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria will align under the National Plan that will see 80 per cent of over 16s fully vaccinated.

Physical recreation and community sport will return for the fully vaccinated, 150 indoors and 500 outdoors.

This paves the way for a potential season start for possibly 13 November for most local competitions, similar to that of last season, while the Premier Cricket season - based off Cricket Victoria’s schedule - could begin the weekend after, with clubs in Premier Cricket requiring at least a three-week block of training before a start.

West Gippsland Cricket Association president Rob Hansen told the Gazette that the association was keen on getting the season up and going as soon as possible, with the hopes that the season could start even sooner.

“We’ve just got to confirm, and consult our senior cricket committee and put the icing on the cake (for a season start date),” he said.

“It’s welcome news, but its not at the same time - we’re resigned to losing some of the season, but it looks like we’ll get in 16 weeks if

There is expected to be further announcements in coming days in relation to how the cricket season may look. 232583 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS we’re lucky out of 21.

“If people are happy to do that, then we’ll do that. 6 or 13 November is most likely at this stage.

“We’ll wait for guidance from Cricket Victoria, they’ll have a return to play plan and they’ll work it out. We’re in constant communication, and we’ll try and keep people informed.”

It is expected that the entire season will once again be played in a one-day format, however Hansen said the association and the

clubs were keen on playing some two-day cricket if possible.

“Back to last year, it was about the same time as last year and we’re intent on playing some two-day games,” he said.

“We need play four two-day games to justify a two-day finals series.

“If we can’t, we’ll revert to one-day cricket but the strong feeling from clubs is we’d like to play two-day cricket. We’re happy to give that a go, but some things need to go our way.

“We’ll start with one-dayers and then we’re hopeful of playing red-ball cricket - we could look at a Saturday/Sunday game if the clubs are wanting to, but we have a bit of work to do.”

Cricket Victoria is currently in talks with the State Government about what cricket could look like at all the levels, with announcements expected in the coming days, with local associations such as the WGCA, DDCA, MPCA, VSDCA and the WDCA then expected to make decisions on starting dates.

Karen Leek inducted into Greyhound Hall of Fame

By Gerard Guthrie The late Karen Leek was inducted into Greyhound Racing Victoria’s Hall of Fame at Sunday night’s ‘virtual’ Victorian Greyhound Awards.

There is always enormous significance attached to any GRV Hall of Fame induction; however it’s unlikely there’s been a more emotional or heartfelt – or for that matter deserving - elevation than Karen, who hailed from Devon Meadows.

Karen, who passed away in tragic circumstances in May, 2020, aged 69, was an industry icon, making an indelible mark and gaining widespread respect and admiration for her contribution to all aspects of the industry, from rearing, training, breeding, mentoring young participants and administration.

“I think she was an absolute superstar,” said GRV Chair Peita Duncan, who enjoyed a close friendship with Karen, forged through Karen rearing Ms Duncan and her mother’s greyhounds.

“It’s just heart-breaking that she’s not here anymore and I think this is the least we can do, to put her in our Hall of Fame. Part of me thinks damn it, we should have done it before, but you don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow.

“I’m thinking part of her would be like, what’s all the fuss about. Get over it, I’ve got dogs to feed up and let out!

“But I think that seriously, deep down, she would be quite proud. She was a very humble person but I think she would be chuffed she’s been inducted.”

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Devon Meadows trainer, the late Karen Leek, has been inducted into the GRV Hall of Fame.

251461 Picture: SUPPLIED Karen enjoyed great success as a breeder and trainer in her own right, with her standout performers including dual Melbourne Cup finalists Relle Louise (1979-80), Proud Paul (1983-84), 1984 Melbourne Cup finalist Copper Lady and Din’s Son, 2010 Shepparton Cup winner.

However, it was in rearing and nurturing the stars of tomorrow that Karen achieved widespread renown.

Among those to benefit from Karen’s expert touch with pups was successful owner/

Thursday, 23 September, 2021

breeder and GRV Board member Bill Buccilli and his cousin Serge, with the likes of star performers Godsend, Phenomenal, Extreme Magic, Bewildering, Captivating and most recently Equalizer, among a host of others.

“Karen reared pretty much all our pups until the last couple of years when she started to wind down a little bit,” Buccilli said.

“After you met Karen and walked around the property, you could just see the passion she had.

“The way the dogs were kept and the way

the dogs were groomed, just the way she looked after her own property and the pups and the way she handled them was for me second to none.”

In addition to developing young canine talent, Karen was just as respected for her role as a mentor to young people making their way in the industry.

Among her protegees was prominent stud master Paul Westerveld, who made the lifechanging decision to undertake work experience with Karen during his high school years.

“I chose to go there knowing Karen was passionate about greyhounds, as obviously I was, but I’d never met her before and what an experience it was and we made a lifelong friendship through it,” said Westerveld.

“It’s everything (having a good mentor). I was so fortunate that I had Karen, and I had other mentors too. I think as a young person getting involved in this sport you just need to surround yourself with people like Karen who will set you on the right path.

“Overall for me, Karen was the biggest influence on my career.”

Pearcedale trainer Kelvyn Greenough was also recognised on the night with the inaugural Metropolitan Trainer Strike Rate Award, with 25 winners from 94 starters at 26.60 percent, edging out neighbour Jason Thompson who had 53 winners from 220 starters at 24.09 percent.

Greenough’s Houdini boy was crowned the Victorian Stayer of the Year, while 19-yearold Pearcedale trainer Kayla Cottrell received the Ned Bryant Award in recognition of outstanding achievement. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Sweet joy for Tynong trainers

By Jason Adams Tynong North training partners Gavin Clifton and David McKenzie marked a career highlight on Thursday night as Candy Carrera produced a memorable win at Sandown Park.

She defied market expectations but it came as no surprise to those closest to ‘Candy’ given some impressive trials since arriving in Victoria.

They acquired her from Glen McKinley in New South Wales during August, a gentleman they met in 2017 simply by having a chat at Wentworth Park.

“When we had Princess Pout we went to Sydney for the Ladies Bracelet. He was a nice bloke in the cafeteria that started talking to us, it was as simple as that. We came home and followed his dogs, we kept in contact and things went from there,” said Clifton.

For Clifton and McKenzie’s Tynong North kennel Candy’s win was one of their proudest moments in the sport.

“We haven’t had her for too long but knowing we’re getting the best out of her is a really good feeling.”

The pair are cousins and have been training greyhounds together for nearly a decade. They live busy lives with McKenzie a fruit grower and Clifton a radiologist at Dandenong Hospital.

“Gav gets to my house at 6am every morning before going to work. Things do feel hard at times as we’re always under the pump but moments like this remind us why we do it. We love it and treat our dogs like our own kids,” said McKenzie.

For anyone that knows them it’s clear how much work they put in and the dedication they have for their passion of training greyhounds.

“Sometimes we doubt ourselves but we need to trust and believe in our own ability. Gav and I work well together, we have chats about things and it doesn’t become an argument, it’s just healthy discussion and we find a middle ground.”

They are regulars at Sandown Park and like all trainers have the ultimate goal of producing a TAB Melbourne Cup winner.

“We love this place. We trial our dogs a lot here because it’s where we want to win, especially in November. We believe we’ve got to breed our own, it’s the only way we’re going to get a Melbourne Cup winner. That’s the end game.”

Candy Carerra’s win was in the ‘Thank you Mick Floyd’ final named after the club’s outgoing Racing Manager Mick Floyd who has been one of the sport’s most influential people.

In the following race star sprinter Fernando Bluey showed off his electric speed to win the Free-For-All for trainer Kayla Cottrell.

Training partners Gavin Clifton and David McKenzie marked a career highlight last week. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Beaconsfield wants to move competitions in 2022. 243408

Picture: ROB CAREW

Eagles to look east

By Nick Creely The Eastern Football Netball League has called a Special General Meeting (SGM) for its member clubs on Wednesday 29 September, with two clubs including a south east powerhouse looking to join the competition in 2022 and beyond.

Eastern CEO Troy Swainston sent the memo to clubs, informing them that both Beaconsfield Football Club and Oakleigh Districts Football Club are both aiming to join the competition next season, with the league fully supporting their transfer applications following meetings with “key stakeholders and a review of the presentations prepared by both clubs.”

Clubs will vote on these applications at the meeting, which will begin at 7pm, with senior affiliated clubs entitled to have two member votes, while junior affiliated clubs will have one and board members will also have one.

They will be asked to vote on recommendations of the EFNL board, which endorses

Beaconsfield to join Division 1 in 2022, and for Oakleigh Districts to join Division 2.

The move from Beaconsfield - which clinched the 2021 minor premiership in the AFL Outer East Premier Division after an undefeated 8-0 season under an Eastern league coaching great in Mick Fogarty - has been touted for some time like Berwick’s move last season, with several clubs from the Outer East, such as Cranbourne and Doveton also weighing up their future in the competition.

Speculation has been rife that the Eagles would look to make the same move that their great rival across the creek Berwick made last season, with the Eagles’ location, facilities and growth, particular within their junior ranks, a huge catalyst.

It’s proving to be an interesting time for the club out of Holm Park from an on-field perspective no matter where the club lands from a league point of view, with two of the biggest stars departing for Devon Meadows.

Ryan Hendy - who was a senior assistant under Fogarty this season - has departed for

the Panthers as senior coach in the MPNFL, and brought along with him two of the most prized recruits this off-season.

Stars Nick Battle and ex-Saint Brandon White are both joining the Panthers as playing assistant coaches for the next two seasons in a huge coup for the club Battle had a sublime 2021 in the Outer East and took out the Pakenham Gazette Coaches Award for his dominant campaign through the midfield and will add significant class to the Panthers both on and off field, and also was named ruck rover in the Premier Division Team of the Year.

He spent one season at the Eagles after initially signing with Narre Warren in 2020.

White - who returned to Beaconsfield after spending several seasons in the AFL system with St Kilda for 11 games - was also prominent for the Eagles in 2021 through the midfield and half back with his elite kicking skills and composure under pressure, and was also named in the Outer East Team of the Year in the centre.

Serong...so right! Caleb’s goal of the year

By David Nagel Gippsland product Caleb Serong added another notch to a growing belt of achievements on Sunday night by winning the 2021 AFL Goal of the Year.

The second-year Fremantle midfielder slotted a miraculous banana kick from the boundary line, late in the last quarter, to secure the Dockers a thrilling Derby win over cross-town rivals the West Coast Eagles in round 22.

Serong, who was taken by the Dockers at pick eight in the 2019 AFL draft, has had a magnificent start to his AFL career, winning the 2020 Rising Star Award and AFL Players Association Best First Year Player.

And this year he claimed the AFL Coaches Association Best Young Player Award, as well as the Ross Glendinning Medal for his great game against the Eagles.

Serong’s goal prompted a great call from Fox Footy commentator Anthony Hudson.

“He got down, he got up again…we’ve got every right to be amazed,’ Hudson screamed.

“Serong…so right.”

Serong, who as a youngster grew up in Inverloch and Warragul, was as amazed as Hudson that the ball went through the big sticks.

When asked by presenter Abbey Holmes what was going through his head before his miraculous six pointer, Serong had a simple answer.

“I don’t think much was going through my head when I was in that situation, I just got up as quick as I could and smacked it through,” he told Holmes.

“It was more of a fluke than anything, but I was pretty glad it went through.”

Former Warragul boy Caleb Serong has added a further honour to an already impressive list by Picture: FREMANTLE FOOTBALL CLUB winning the AFL Goal of the Year. 210608 And when asked by his Fremantle captain, and co-presenter, Nathan Fyfe, what we can next expect from him, Serong pulled the teamfirst card out of the hat.

“Hopefully a flag next year for the Dockers.”

Serong was a star junior at both football and

cricket, representing Victoria at both sports.

He played his first senior game of football for Warragul at the age of 15, and played for the Gippsland Power, earning selection in the Vic Country team and being named an All-Australian Under-18 that year.

Thursday, 23 September, 2021

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STAR NEWS 23

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Thursday, 23 September, 2021

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