News - Berwick Star News - 25th November 2021

BERWICK

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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Twilight market success

Charlie spins up a storm

Great Christmas giveaway competition

PAGE 15

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SPORT

INSIDE

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Max is hooked on business

Reaping rewards Plenty of green thumbed locals pulled on their gardening gloves over the weekend to take part in a special planting bee at the Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick.

Hoping to see more native plant species thrive in the park in the near future, members of the Friends of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick were eager to get involved in a real ’grass-roots’ project, Care for the rare - and it was great to see this come to fruition on Saturday morning.

Read more on page 13

Hans Rutgrink and David Pearce Friends of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick 258611

Uni trims staff

By Shelby Brooks Federation University will begin accepting voluntary redundancies as it restructures its academic model.

The university, with campuses in Berwick,

Churchill and Ballarat, announced on Monday 22 November it would cut its traditional structure of six university schools to three.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Duncan Bentley said the restructure was focused on employer demand which would increase job opportuni-

ties for students and help tackle regional skills shortages.

“It’s an exciting opportunity that will allow Federation to grow and drive innovation and jobs in our regions,“ he said.

The three new interdisciplinary centres

proposed are a health and wellbeing centre, an education, government and community centre and the science, innovation and a sustainable economic development centre.

Continued page 12

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NEWS

Pro-vax campaign ‘success’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

South East Community Links team of Sana Hassan, Kay Dilger. Karen Vergara, Ruwanthi Mudannayaka, Soe Soe Moe, Rashmi Ghimire, Andrea Picture: GARY SISSONS Shepherd and Peter McNamara. 258271

South East at risk of finance woes

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A staggering $5.8 million of debts to predatory lenders were resolved by financial counsellors at South East Community Links in 2020-21.

At its annual general meeting on 15 November, the service marked 50 years since it began as the memorably-named SCAAB (Springvale Community Aid and Advice Bureau).

Poignantly, it also mourned the recent passing of inspirational founder Merle Mitchell AM. It also reported the return of community financial hardship after the end of Covid supports – such as JobKeeper, JobSeeker supplements, home loan deferrals and moratoriums on evictions and utility disconnections.

As a result, clients were left with months of arrears on rents, home loans and utility bills – while many were on less income than before the pandemic, SECL chief executive Peter McNamara said.

Many were at risk of homelessness, and many sought SECL’s financial counsellors “in droves” to navigate the complex legal and debt recovery systems.

“It’s important for people to know that support is out there,” Mr McNamara said.

“SECL are able to help you in the most difficult financial situations.”

The ongoing financial strain across communities in Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia Shire in post-Covid lockdown is SECL’s “most significant concern”.

The most impacted are asylum seekers and international students, who weren’t eligible for government support after their jobs stopped during Covid.

There was a monumental 152 per cent rise in youth homelessness cases. About 16 per cent of SECL clients were homeless or at risk.

SECL is the largest financial counselling provider to diverse communities in Australia, and the largest in emergency relief in Victoria.

Community and financial wellbeing manager Kay Dilger said the counsellors’ role was to “tell their stories” to creditors and come up with solutions. In the past year, it resulted in 13 per cent of debts being resolved.

Covid’s impact and financial abuse by partners were the top two issues for clients, Ms Dilger said.

Financial abuse was a common form of domestic violence, such as when all the debts are in “her name” and the income is in “his name”.

The lack of access to an income was a key barrier preventing women from leaving abusive relationships, Ms Dilger said.

SECL helped a refugee and domestic violence survivor who was coerced by her ex-husband to sign a mortgage contract.

She was later advised by her bank to take loan-protection insurance despite being a single mother on Centrelink benefits. She wasn’t offered an interpreter by the bank.

She was hospitalised after being stabbed 10 times in the spine by her ex-husband. Her insurer didn’t recognise her injuries as trauma and rejected her claim – putting her at risk of losing her home.

After SECL stepped in, insurance premiums were refunded and a goodwill payment was made to the client. Her mortgage repayments were lowered, and some debt was waived.

Another mum arrived at SECL seeking emergency food and rent relief. Staff looked to the causes of her plight, and found she was subjected to ongoing financial, physical and emotional abuse at home.

She and her child were found safe accommodation and schooling, with the help of 20 agencies.

In recent months, South East Community Links was part of a response to Covid vaccination “fears and misinformation“ running across the South East.

In partnership with Monash Health and local councils, SECL ran a Covid vaccination information program with five bicultural workers in South Sudanese, Afghan, Burmese, Vietnamese and Tamil communities.

Through info sessions, Facebook posts and group vaccinations, the program reached more than 3000 people.

“It has been a success and many potentially wouldn’t have been otherwise vaccinated,“ SECL chief executive Peter McNamara said.

Many reported being unable to otherwise get to vax clinics due to not having transport.

Others didn’t have access to official information and had their questions answered at the information sessions.

“In our first group vaccination, some people attended to have a look; once they were there, they ended up taking part and getting their jabs,” SECL’s annual report stated.

“Having interpreters present and being in a group, with peer support, has made the difference for so many people getting vaccinated.”

Peter McNamara has hailed SECL’s vaccination information campaign a success. 258271 Picture: GARY SISSONS

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www.therevival.com.au Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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STAR NEWS 3

FEVER OR COVID FEVER? The only way to be sure is with a test at the first sign of any symptom.

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

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NEWS

Trailblazer is honoured

By Danielle Kutchel Local grassroots community leader, mental health clinician and NDIS advocate SelbaGondoza Luka is among 23 women inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women this year.

Ms Luka’s name was added to the list on Saturday 13 November in recognition of her provision of “culturally appropriate support services to at-risk African-Australian youth, their families and the community at large”.

It caps off a big year for Ms Luka – founder of Afri-Aus Care – who was also named the 2021 Greater Dandenong Citizen of the Year on Australia Day. Ms Luka has also co-founded the successful Empowering African Woman Ubuntu in Practice program, which was funded by the Department of Justice and Community Safety.

She said being inducted to the Honour Roll had already opened “so many doors”.

She believes the honour will help as she continues her work, supporting, advocating for and educating the ‘Mamas’ who are part of Afri-Aus Care’s Ubuntu community at Afri-Aus Care Community Village in Springvale South.

Ms Luka said she believes in a bottom-up strengths-based approach when working with the Mamas and their children in her community, and dedicated her recognition to them.

“This Honour Roll is for the Mamas – they’re the ones who opened their hearts for me to help them because we share the same struggles,“ she said.

“I was once vulnerable myself; I see myself in them and they see me in them, that’s what Ubuntu is all about.

“I would like the Mamas one day to walk in my footsteps because they deserve the best.

“The only thing they were lacking was a platform where they could practise Ubuntu in

Selba-Gondoza Luka, second right, with members of Empowering African Women - Ubuntu in Practice. caring for themselves, their children and to be part of the Australian society.

“I am just a vessel. I’m asking people to open their doors for the Mamas. I am a servant-leader for these women.“ She thanked those connected to Afri-Aus Care who had listened to her vision so far.

Each year, the Honour Roll celebrates ex-

ceptional women in Victoria who have made significant and lasting contributions to the community.

The latest inductees join more than 700 women named in the Honour Roll since the program began in 2001.

Minister for Women Gabrielle Williams praised the women who had been inducted this Roll

Picture: SUPPLIED “This year’s inductees are true leaders who contribute every day to making Victoria – and in some cases the world – a better place,” she said.

“Celebrating the achievements of women of all backgrounds and experiences helps open the door for the next generation of outstanding women to be leaders.”

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STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

Safety grants awarded

LENSCAPE

The City of Casey is one of six priority shires to received $700,000 to go towards crime prevention projects.

The funding comes from the Empowering Communities grant program, aimed at helping local governments implement projects that build local capability to effectively keep vulnerable people away from crime, encourage local community partnerships and strengthen relationships to deliver crime prevention activities.

The State Government has also called on not-for-profit groups and other specialist organisations to submit locally driven projects for the next round of grants, with up to $300,000 of funding available to make local communities safer through two streams.

The Creating Safer Places grants provide funding for councils for urban design projects which aim to prevent crime by creating inclusive environments and safer public places.

Previous projects from this fund include CCTV, lighting and streetscape upgrades at Hemmings Street in Dandenong and a security upgrade of activity precincts in Mordialloc.

The Crime Prevention Innovation Fund provides supports councils and not-for-profit organisations to develop innovative community safety and crime prevention initiatives.

Previous projects include an Aboriginal mentoring program in Mildura for young people who have been in contact with the justice system, a program to improve women’s safety in the CBD and a mentoring program for South Sudanese youth in the Western Suburbs of Melbourne. Applications are currently open and close at 4.00pm on Friday 11 February 2022.

Minister for Crime Prevention Natalie Hutchins said Building Safer Communities grants will invest in projects tailored for those who need a bit of extra support to stay on the right path.

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I live at Browtop Road, Narre Warren.

I have just read the article in the Berwick Star News dated 18 November 2021 regarding the upgrade to Narre Warren North Road.

I use that road on a very regular basis and am concerned about the proposed plans as outlined in that article.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

In particular, about the removal of right hand turns in and out of Crawley and Brundett Roads.

The article states they are being removed for safety reasons due to accidents along that section of the road.

By removing that facility and forcing people to make u-turns instead, this is in fact increasing the safety risks and will increase the amount of accidents and the road will

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN starcommunity.com.au CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666 EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au

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To the City of Casey for the appalling state of the grass in the parks!

To the people who let their cats roam free and not retain them in their property.

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REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au

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To being able to watch my granddaughter’s calisthenics concert at Bunjil.

Thumbs down!

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Thumbs up!

Thursday, 25 November, 2021

Thumbs down!

To not being able to get anyone to give me a quote on new fences until next year.

Thumbs down!

Thumbs down!

To the poor conditions of the roads.

To all the potholes on our roads at the moment.

Thumbs up!

Thumbs down!

To the sunshine.

To Menulog on Saturday night.

have to be amended at a later date to correct this problem.

This will incur further unnecessary costs and inconvenience to the residents of the area.

I am for the upgrade to the road and think it is long overdue, but I am totally against the removal of the right turn facility.

Geoffrey Proctor

SOCIALLY SPEAKING Residents are fed up with unmown grass in the Berwick Waters Estate, which has grown as tall as one metre high in some areas.

Here’s what our Facebook readers had to say about it.

Tracey Treweek: Not just in Berwick, it’s bad in Narre and Cranbourne too.

Selena Jones: Cranbourne East all along Linsell Boulevard and Narre Cranbourne Road. It’s long everywhere.

Brenton James: Good for the environment.

Ann Henderson: Not good for hay fever sufferers.

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NEWS

Long grass out of control

By Jamie Salter Residents are fed up with unmown grass in the Berwick Waters Estate, which has grown as tall as one metre high in some areas.

Local resident Gary Perkins said the grass had been cut only twice in the past three-anda-half months.

“I’ve phoned the council up every couple of weeks and I’m fed up with their excuses,” Mr Perkins said.

“They sent a general email to everyone saying the reason it hasn’t been cut is the weather and that they can’t get people to cut the grass, but is it any different one kilometre over the road in Berwick Springs?

“Why should I pay my rates if the grass is not cut?”

Tulliallan Community Action Group member Bec Hyland said the grass was too long for children who played in the area.

“Every year we always have a problem with the grass and we’re always sending in heaps of requests to get it mowed, you’d think they would be more prepared for it,” Ms Hyland said.

Ms Hyland’s children Georgia, 3, and Olivia Holloway, 4, hidden in the tall grass.

“We know this time of year is a high growth period but it shouldn’t get this out of control.

“It got out of whack before the rain came this year.

“We had a neighbour’s dog run out on to the road that got hit by a car because the driver couldn’t see the dog in the grass.”

City of Casey manager city presentation

David Richardson said council maintained more than 2500 parks, reserves and roadsides.

“This year, the region has received higher than normal levels of rainfall throughout winter and spring which has resulted in extensive grass growth,” Mr Richardson said.

“The level of rainfall received has affected our routine open space maintenance schedule across the municipality, in some cases restricting the ability of machinery to access very wet areas to deal with above average growth.”

He said council was working with contractors to ensure the mowing programs return to schedule as quickly as possible.

“Given the scale of parks, reserves and roadsides across Casey, this is likely to take some weeks yet,” Mr Richardson said.

“We understand that the delayed program is requiring additional understanding from residents, and we again sincerely apologise at the state of the parks while our teams work with contractors to return the program to schedule.”

Inner Wheel steps up with sock donations The Inner Wheel Club of Narre Warren is doing its bit to keep toes warm with an impressive donation to charity Socks4Support.

Run by 12-year-old Benjy Orwin, Socks4Support collects pairs of new or goodcondition second-hand socks to donate to charities that then distribute them to people in need.

President of Inner Wheel Narre Warren, Linda Wallace, met up with Benjy on Sunday 14 November to deliver 449 pairs of old and

new socks collected from across the Inner Wheel A62 District.

“Our club has been collecting socks for Benjy after he was a guest speaker via Zoom at our November meeting,” she explained.

A call was put out to the other clubs in the district and they quickly rallied behind the cause, she said.

Benjy is currently making up 1000 individual sock parcels to deliver for Christmas,

Be the reason they get home safely.

each with a private message from him.

“It’s just amazing from one so young, and our club is really proud to be supporting him,” Ms Wallace said.

If you have spare pairs of socks that you’d like to donate, get in touch with Inner Wheel Narre Warren at iiw.au.narrewarren@gmail. com Find out more about Benjy’s charity on Facebook at Socks4Support.

Linda hands over a donation of socks to young charity organiser Benjy.

Picture: SUPPLIED

As we come out of lockdown, there will be more cars and people travelling throughout regional Victoria. We all have something to look forward to when we get home.

So let’s be the reason everyone gets home safely this summer by sticking to the speed limits and staying alert.

Drive safely for everyone.

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STAR NEWS 7

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NEWS

Nurse Farzana Muhammad Ali (left) receives her booster shot from associate nurse manager Donna Rose at the Cranbourne vaccination clinic. 258038

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Focus shifts to boosters

By Jamie Salter Queues have almost disappeared at the vaccination hub at Cranbourne Turf Club, as Victoria approaches a 90 per cent double dose rate.

The clinic is delivering the last rounds of first and second Covid-19 vaccination doses and has administered 4675 vaccines this month, as of November 19.

Nurse Bec McLachlan said booster shots were currently being delivered to health and aged care workers.

“We’re expecting for it to pick up again early next year after children aged five to 11 are approved, and then we will see an increase again in July and August,“ Ms McLachlan said.

Anyone who received their second Covid-19 vaccination six months ago is now eligible for a booster shot.

“It’s been seen the rate of efficacy does reduce over time and getting the booster shot will increase coverage,“ Ms McLachlan said.

Booster shots are currently only offered as a Pfizer vaccine.

If someone has received a different vaccine including Astra Zeneca or Moderna, they can still get the Pfizer booster shot.

The Cranbourne vaccination hub has delivered a total of 400 booster doses to date.

According to Department of Health data, the City of Casey local government area has a first dose rate of over 95 per cent and a second

Nurse Farzana Muhammad Ali (left) gets her third jab from associate nurse manager Donna Rose. 258038 dose rate of 92 per cent.

The vaccination clinic temporarily closed for five days between 11 and 15 November due to the Cranbourne Cup. Ms McLachlan said the closure allowed for

a redesign of the vaccination centre.

“We’ve changed the space around to make it more open plan,“ she said.

“We’ve taken ideas from our pop-up sites and Frankston hub which are more open plan

as well, so we’re keen to see how it runs when more patients start coming in.“ There are plenty of Covid-19 vaccination appointments available. To book online, visit portal.cvms.vic.gov.au

Judge says no excuses for ‘disgusting’ brutality

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A 39-year-old Cranbourne father has been jailed after horrifically wounding his longterm partner in a sustained, cruel attack.

Fueled by ice, booze and jealousy, Mark Churchus severely beat the victim’s body and head “in a number of different ways over several hours”, despite her persistent pleas to stop on 18 April 2020.

He pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to a string of charges including recklessly causing serious injury.

As part of his brutality, he kicked and broke four of her ribs.

The victim’s lungs collapsed as a result – a potentially life threatening situation. She told him “I can’t breathe. Please stop”.

Churchus replied: “I haven’t finished yet.”

Sentencing judge Justin Hannebery on 23 November noted Churchus was “physically dominating” the victim, who was of “small stature”. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

The former Berwick Secondary College student had at one point pressed pliers onto both sides of the victim’s big toe.

He threatened to cut off her toes and burn them, power-drill through her hands and feet, and to drag her behind the car and kill her in front of her parents.

She pleaded for Churchus’s dad to help.

Churchus grabbed his dad’s phone to prevent a call to police, warning his father he’d be next.

She was bound and gagged, and Churchus’s father told him to “please stop”.

Churchus aggressively gripped his father’s throat and threatened to punch him.

Among the woman’s “numerous and serious” injuries were significant bruising and swelling “all over”, particularly to her face and temple, Judge Hannebery said.

Her ribs and an eye socket were broken, requiring surgery. There was bleeding on her brain.

Yet, Churchus didn’t seek medical help for

her, arguing later he didn’t know the full extent of her injuries.

Instead when a mate visited the home, Churchus demanded the victim stay in the bedroom.

She managed to escape with their infant daughter to a neighbour’s home. She was taken to Dandenong Hospital by ambulance, and later to The Alfred.

Meanwhile Churchus drove the victim’s car in search of her.

He crashed into a parked vehicle 120 metres from his home and fled without leaving contact details. His licence was suspended at the time.

Police later seized 12 cannabis plants from a closet and back yard at the home, as well as an air rifle, knuckedusters and flick-knife.

Judge Hannebery noted in the lead-up to the attack, Churchus had accused his partner of “cheating” on him on an online app.

Churchus told police he quit his job to ensure that she didn’t “sneak off” – though

it was later argued he lost his job for “other reasons”.

He had a problem admitting to police what he inflicted on his partner, describing it as an “accident”, that he was “drunk” and what happened was “disgusting”.

“I want someone to beat the s*** out of me,” he told police.

Churchus’s limited criminal history, solid work history, family support, early guilty plea and “genuine” efforts to reform were noted.

His alcohol and meth use at the time weren’t mitigating factors.

Judge Hannebery said the sentence must be designed to stop other men resorting to physical dominance and violence over their partners.

Churchus was jailed for up to five years, seven months, and eligible for parole in three years, nine months.

This included 580 days already served in pre-sentence custody.

Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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STAR NEWS 9

We’re building big in Melbourne’s south east As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re investing in major road and rail projects near you.

The Cranbourne and Pakenham lines will be completely free of level crossings by 2025, paving the way for safer travel and more trains to run more often.

We’re also upgrading the Cranbourne Line by adding eight kilometres of track and building new rail bridges at Abbotts Road and Eumemmerring Creek to make room for trains to pass. This will allow trains to run every 10 minutes when the Metro Tunnel opens.

We’ve completed the removal of five level crossings on the Frankston Line at Chelsea, Bonbeach and Edithvale. In total, 20 level crossings are being removed and 13 new stations are being built along the line.

The Monash Freeway Upgrade will change the way you access the freeway. The Jacksons Road entry ramp will connect you directly to EastLink. While the Police Road outbound entry ramp will connect you to the Monash Freeway.

Huge improvements are coming to some of the busiest and most congested roads across the south east. Construction on the South Road Upgrade, between Nepean Highway and Warrigal Road, will make it safer for drivers and reduce congestion for the 40,000 people who use the road every day.

The new nine kilometre Mordialloc Freeway is now open! The freeway links the Mornington Peninsula Freeway and Dingley Bypass saving drivers up to seven minutes during the morning peak.

While we work, road and public transport disruptions could affect your travel Over summer, there’ll be major road works on the West Gate Bridge, West Gate Freeway and Monash Freeway. We’ll be closing key sections of the freeway network for road maintenance and resurfacing, as well as building new lanes and ramps.

Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes Princes Highway, Dandenong South

At times, until late 2021

Road or lanes closed

South Gippsland Highway, Dandenong South

At times, until late 2021

Road or lanes closed

Clyde Road, Berwick

Until early 2022

Lane closed southbound between Reserve Street and Enterprise Avenue

Until early 2022

Lane closed northbound between Sir Gustav Nossal Boulevard and Jane Street

Princes Freeway, Berwick

In Nov and Dec

Rough surface and speed restrictions between Princes Highway and Clyde Road

Monash Freeway

In Nov and Dec

Overnight freeway closures, daytime lane and ramp closures between Warrigal Road and EastLink.

Princes Freeway, Officer

At night, Dec

Freeway closed between Beaconsfield Interchange and Cardinia Road

Hallam North Road and Heatherton Road, Endeavour Hills

In Jan

Intersection closed

Lathams Road, Carrum Downs

In Jan

Closed eastbound between Aster Avenue and Frankston-Dandenong Road

Golf Links Road, Langwarrin

Jan to Jun

Closures between Peninsula Link and Warrandyte Road

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

Until 25 Nov

Westall to Cranbourne and Pakenham

8.30pm to last train each night, 13 to 15 Dec

Flinders Street to Oakleigh

From first train to 8.30pm, 15 Dec 16 to 23 Dec

Flinders Street to Caulfield

Find out more about disruptions in the south east Scan the QR code or visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au/disruptions

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Heidelberg

Major rail projects Bundoora Airport

Box Hill Arden

Footscray

Parkville

Suburban Rail Loop State Library

Suburban Rail Loop East, Cheltenham to Box Hill will take

Clifton Hill

North Melbourne

71,000

Parliament Southern Cross

cars off the road every day

Camberwell Town Hall Melbourne Cricket Ground Richmond

Burwood Camberwell Market

Flinders Street

South Yarra Alamein

Metro Tunnel Project

Chadstone Shopping Centre Anzac Monash University Caulfield to CBD

10

Caulfield

Glen Waverley

Chadstone

Monash

Level Crossing Removal Project

Caulfield Racecourse

Brighton Bathing Boxes

45

28

Clayton to CBD

Rowville

Clayton

Caulfield to Rowville Link feasibility study via Chadstone and Monash

Transport superhub

Sandringham Cheltenham

Bairnsdale

Level crossings are being removed on the Cranbourne, Pakenham and Frankston lines

Dandenong

Cranbourne Line Upgrade Cranbourne

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V/LINE VLOCITY

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Pakenham New station at Pakenham East

Frankston Beach Frankston

Add Calendar Subscription Would you like to subscribe to “Cranbourne and Pakenham lines disruptions”?

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Add disruptions directly to your calendar and you’ll always be up to date

Stony Point

1. Visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au/calendar 2. Select your train line 3. Click Subscribe to calendar 4. Select your calendar type

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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STAR NEWS 11

NEWS

Free shuttle bus available

By Marcus Uhe A new shuttle weekend bus service has begun operating in Berwick, transporting visitors between Federation University and Wilson Botanic Park.

Visitors can leave their car at the university carpark in Berwick near Berwick train station before enjoying the free 2.5 kilometre ride to the Botanic Park’s visitor centre.

The first service ran weekend on Saturday 14 November.

The service is designed to alleviate difficulties in finding somewhere to leave the car at the park.

City of Casey’s Manager for Active Com-

munities, Angie Peresso said that the concept started out of increased attendances at the park over recent years.

“Wilson Botanic Park is one of Casey’s most popular parks, with visitor numbers increasing from 100,000 to 600,000 visitors per year over the past seven years,” Peresso said.

“Feedback from people who used the shuttle service was positive overall, and we will continue to seek feedback from users of the service to make improvements as the trial continues.”

The service will run on loop between 9am and 4.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays until April next year.

The bus seats 27 people and masks are required to be worn, in line with current Victorian Government regulations regarding Covid-19 and public transport services.

Companion or carer pets are allowed on the bus, however, all other animals are not permitted.

Get to Wilson Botanic Park for free using the new weekend shuttle bus service. 209388 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

FedUni trims down From page 1 “I am proposing a new academic organisational structure that would give much more flexibility and empowerment to seize opportunities and drive innovation, collaboration and the highest standards of excellence that will help support, transform and enhance our regional communities,“ Vice-Chancellor Duncan said.

It comes as a 37 per cent fall in student numbers is expected between 2019 and 2022, as reported by The Age. Vice-Chancellor Duncan said he would invite expressions of interest for voluntary redundancy.

“We know that not all staff will see their career goals aligning with this change in direction so we are giving our staff choices by opening up expressions of interest for voluntary redundancy and opportunities to retrain,“ he said.

“We would offer career transition support for staff members whose applications are accepted through the proposed scheme.

“We would also explore the opportunity for these staff members to access a scholarship to study a degree at Federation University in identified areas of skills shortage as part of their career transition plan.“ It’s understood staff have until 7 January to apply for the redundancy.

NTEU Federation University Branch president Dr Mathew Abbott said it was clear the corporatisation of Australian universities was in full swing and regional Victoria was set to suffer as a result.

“We’re extremely concerned about the impact of cuts on staff and the quality of regional education,” said Dr Abbott.

“Our university’s programs have already been cut to the bone, including a third of humanities staff who are being made redundant.

“This includes a full Professor of History at Gippsland, the only senior historian on campus and serving that area.

“This disgraceful proposal is also likely to impact on the level of support available to students with professional and support staff to face further cuts and ongoing uncertainty about their roles.“

GET VACCINATED.

Every jab brings us closer to the things we love.

Book your

Visit Australia.gov.au or call 1800 020 080 Federation University Vice-Chancellor Duncan Bentley.

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.

12509881-SN48-21

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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NEWS

Hans Rutgrink (Friends of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick) busy planting a small native shrub.

258611

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Paul Kintanar (Friends of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick) having a great time! 258611

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Roger Hughes and Paul Kintanar (Friends of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick) along with other volunteers on the day. 258611

Are you holding a

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

The Care for the rare project, organised and presented by the Botanic Gardens Australia and New Zealand (BGANZ) and Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, is a fantastic initiative that aims to protect and nurture rare and threatened plant species throughout the state.

On the morning of Saturday 20 November, many people came along to support the great initiative and get their hands dirty as they got busy planting some native flora.

The plants that were selected for the planting bee were chosen because they are either

near to where the species naturally occur, or the growing conditions in the wild are similar to those within the botanic garden.

The aim of the project is to establish a multi-site conservation collection of Victorian Rare or Threatened plant species (VROTs) and the project is as much about building capacity for regional botanic gardens in Victoria as it is a conservation program.

Judging from Saturday morning’s turn out in Berwick, it’s one that the local community is eager to get behind and will passionately support into the future.

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

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Caring for rare plants

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Tony Duncan (Friends of Wilson Botanic Park Berwick) at the planting bee on Saturday. 258611 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

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

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Art supports care

By Jamie Salter Palliative Care South East (PCSE) recently held an art exhibition to raise funds for its new building in Narre Warren.

So far, the exhibition has raised $6000, with all profits going directly towards the development of counselling and support rooms in the new Palliative Care Hub. The event was a part of the Laz Effect fundraising campaign in memory of Larry who received specialist palliative care from PCSE’s service.

Larry’s sister Linda Espie curated the exhibition which featured more than 65 artworks donated by local and nationally recognised artists.

“It was really special to see the exhibition come together,“ Ms Espie said.

“It was a wonderful collection of donated art and the feedback we got was absolutely incredible - people were very touched to watch it,“ Ms Espie said.

“There are still some artworks available on our website and some magnificent photography as well.

“People can still watch the exhibit, it is a lovely, colourful, creative event.“ The office space in the palliative care hub will be ready for PCSE to move into by mid 2022.

Ms Espie said funds raised through the art exhibit will directly support members of the public.

“The areas of the building we’re trying to fund is the community facing section of the facility, which will include counselling rooms, rooms for group work and rooms for art and music therapy,“ she said.

“These spaces are extremely important for people to receive these supportive interventions both prior to and during the bereavement stage and we are yet to be able to complete them.“ The exhibit was broadcast via Facebook Live on 4 November.

To watch the broadcast, visit bit.ly/3FwIFXP Artworks are still available to purchase to support PCSE. To purchase an artwork or to donate, visit palliativecaresoutheast.org.au/pcse-store/

Shaneen receives a Windermere Merry Mission Christmas hamper.

Call for online donations

Artwork showcased at the Hampton Park Uniting Church.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Community connections through art Hampton Park Uniting Church is getting ready to host the Community Connections Through Art exhibition, designed to showcase the work of the local community.

A $3000 City of Casey grant will help fund the exhibition, which will feature artists from within the local government area who have experienced adversity and whose passion for art has inspired their lives.

The church is working with the Hampton Park Community House to put together the event and is calling for local artists to submit their expressions of interest.

Minister Rick Holland was inspired by an art exhibition held by Absolute Care and Health for people with disabilities.

Church member Lyn McBain works at the

organisation and is now helping to bring a similar event to the local community.

“Our working group has received four expressions of interest so far and we’re expecting to get a lot of entries,“ Ms McBain said.

“We had about 150 entries at the last exhibit and it’s not just canvas - it can be music, craft, video.

“The exhibition is open to people of all ages and abilities.“ The weekend-long event is set to be held in March with a VIP night for artists on the Friday evening.

The exhibition will be open to the community on the Saturday with tea and coffee provided and a presentation of children’s art.

Sunday will include a church service with speeches from multicultural community members, followed by a multicultural lunch.

Ms McBain said preparations were already well underway.

“The committee has been meeting on a monthly basis but now we’re meeting fortnightly because there’s a lot of work to do,“ she said.

“The exhibition is all about the local community.“ The free event will be held from Friday 4 March to Sunday 6 March at Uniting Place - 1 Coral Drive, Hampton Park.

Expressions of interest must be returned

by Friday 17 December to the email address office@unitingplace.org.au

Casey kids step up for reading challenge Children in the local area were among more than 71,000 young Victorians who explored exciting new worlds and built their literacy skills this year as part of the Premiers’ Reading Challenge, now in its 17th year.

Victorian kids aged from pre-school to Year 10 collectively made their way through more than 2.8 million books between March and September for the challenge, which this year celebrated the theme, Open Up a New World.

The annual challenge encourages enthusiastic readers across households, early childhood centres and schools to read a set number of books – including picture books, short stories, poems or non-fiction books –and record their efforts online.

The challenge sets kids a goal of 40 books for children below school age with their parents or carers, 30 books for Prep to Year 2 students with or without assistance, and 15 books for students in Years 3 to 10.

Casey Cardinia Library Corp will receive $59,960 so they can buy materials to support the 2022 Challenge.

14 STAR NEWS

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Victorian Education Minister James Merlino said reading not only fostered a lifelong love of learning, but helped kids build lifelong literacy skills.

“A huge congratulations to every Victorian child who has picked up a book or 40 this year,” Mr Merlino said.

“I also want to congratulate every parent and carer who has supported their child’s learning and love of reading as part of this challenge – each word, page and chapter will go a long way in their education journey.”

Of this year’s 71,342 participants, 8315 readers were below school age – encouraging a love of books and stories in Victorian kids from a young age.

More than 12,000 books were listed on the Premiers’ Reading Challenge book list for each age group to choose from, with titles curated by an expert panel including teachers and librarians.

Each participant who met the challenge receives a certificate of achievement signed by all Premiers since 1992.

Thursday, 25 November, 2021

Jordan Crugnale MP with Moira Eveleens of Casey and Cardinia Librararies.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Windermere Child and Family Services is calling for online donations for its annual Merry Mission Christmas fundraiser to help thousands of Victorians who need it most this year.

The Narre Warren community service organisation has been running its Merry Mission appeal for more than 11 years, providing 11,065 gifts and 4560 hampers to families across south east Victoria.

The appeal supports struggling families, including those who may be experiencing homelessness or family violence.

One Victorian family supported last year was Shaneen and her daughter Phoebe, a talented para-equestrian rider.

“Last year Windermere gave us a big Christmas hamper. We had nothing at the time,“ Shaneen said.

“I actually cried when I received it because I’d run out of money and I didn’t know how I would get through Christmas.

“I rang Windermere in desperation and they looked after us.“ Sheneen said the donation meant more than a physical gift - it was proof that someone cared.

“Receiving it was lovely, especially during Covid-19, but it also showed that we weren’t just forgotten,“ Shaneen said.

“It’s not just me. There’s thousands of people out there that need help and it makes a huge difference.“ Donations for this year’s Merry Mission appeal will all be made in the form of online gift vouchers to ensure recipients are able to safely purchase items during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The online event gives recipients the opportunity to select Christmas gifts they need.

Windermere chief executive director Lynette Buoy said the service wanted to make sure no members of the community missed out this Christmas.

“People can help us to ensure our appeal can provide Christmas hampers for those who need it by making a donation,” she said.

“The pandemic has made hard situations even harder for those doing it tough in our communities and giving to Merry Mission is something easy we can do to help others, and in turn make ourselves feel good.

“Just five minutes of your time online can make a huge difference to the life of someone who needs it most right now.“ Windermere has been working in southeast Victoria to help people in need for more than 150 years.

To make a donation, visit windermere.org.au/merrymission berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Michelle downs diabetes A frontline worker at a COVID-19 vaccine clinic successfully overcame a serious complex medical condition that could have eventually killed her.

Narre Warren North resident Michelle Gunaratnam is now celebrating remission from her type 2 diabetes.

Clinically supervised low-carb eating, individualised support, exercise and refraining from overeating helped Michelle lose at least 27 kilos within four months.

Michelle stayed motivated despite Melbourne’s 267 days in lockdown.

Diversa Health co-founder Rob Szabo said Michelle’s improvement defied a broader Ipsos survey trend showing more than 33 per cent of Australians gained weight during the pandemic.

“Locked down Australians often suffer from various isolation-related mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, frustration and a lack of motivation,“ he said.

“When people experience these emotions for extended periods, overindulging in comfort food and drinks becomes more tempting – this is how many people gain weight.“ Diversa’s multidisciplinary team revealed Michelle’s HbA1c test, which measures the average blood sugar level over three months, was originally 6.8 per cent millimoles per litre of blood (mmol/L) back in May 2021. This exceeded Diabetes Australia’s 6.5 per cent minimum benchmark for people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

However, Michelle’s September result decreased to just 5.3 per cent mmol/L, indicating she had successfully entered remission.

Michelle said her hectic lifestyle and binge-eating habits at the end of busy days were contributing factors to her developing

type 2 diabetes.

“Before becoming a Diversa Health member, I used to work very long hours and suffered from an eating disorder,” she recalled.

The 34-year-old’s increased body mass further strained her chronic leg pain, which significantly affected her mobility.

“This led to knee pain and that made me feel older than I am,” she said.

Diversa Health, Australia’s first remote care, subscription service focused specifically on diabetes reversal, stepped-in to help as an extension of Michelle’s existing general practice team.

She also regularly attended cognitive behavioural therapy sessions, which helped her better understand the psychological reasons behind comfort eating.

“A lot of my challenges were at the start, especially in trying to figure out how to eat healthy,” Michelle said.

“I was still addicted to the carbs and it took a lot to move away from that.”

“A week into my new lifestyle, I checked my hips and measured them – I had lost seven centimetres in one week,” she added.

“I remember measuring myself again and again. Surely, I had not measured this correctly but I did – it is totally worth going down this road.”

Michelle believes she would not have put her diabetes in remission without the support of Diversa experts Mr Szabo and dietitian Camilla Dahl.

Narre Warren North resident Michelle Gunaratnam is celebrating remission from her type 2 diabetes.

Picture: KEN NG

Max makes his mark with his wonderful earrings

By Marcus Uhe Clyde North resident Max Whelan may only be 12 years old but he’s already impacting the fashion industry through his range of creative homemade earrings.

Earrings of Wonder produces novelty fashion accessories featuring teddy bears, kittens, gingerbread people, flowers and more.

With the help of his mum, Belinda, they started advertising their products on social media earlier this month and have had significant interest ever since.

His gingerbread people earrings proved particularly popular with the festive period on the horizon.

“We’ve got a lot of earrings being sold,” Max said.

“I expected the selling process to have to go for a while but I think we’ve already sold about 20 pairs.

“We might not need to go to the market anymore because we’re already selling so much through Facebook.”

While having never taken major interest in the arts and crafts scene, Max has learnt the process of hand-constructing the decorations.

When he receives the jewels, he uses a set of pliers to fit them to a hook so the attachment can hang, before preparing them for distribution.

The project is a result of his young entrepreneurial brain working in overdrive.

“It’s just a fun thing to earn some money.

“I love maths and I love learning about money. It was very interesting to find out all the calculations for the profit and costs.

“It’s more the business side than the arts and crafts side that I’m interested in.”

The inspiration to make jewellery came to him via his aunt, Catherine Ryan, who sells her own jewellery through her business, Totally Diamond Paintings.

“He wanted an idea of where to get stock from so I gave him a few ideas for suppliers and he went from there,” Catherine said.

“I thought it was quite cool for a boy to berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Max Whelan showcasing his array of homemade earrings. 258784

Max and his sister Ruby, who helps with distributing the accessories. 258784 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS actually want to make jewellery and earrings and do something crafty.

“He’s always been an entrepreneurial person, he’s always trying to find a way to make a bit of extra money.”

As the business took off, he needed some employees, and found some willing contributors in the form of his sisters, Krystal and Ruby, who help with the construction and distribution process.

“He’s got two older sisters who saw what he was doing and wanted to get involved, so he negotiated with them to become employees and subcontracted them!” Belinda said.

“They’ve been great help with everything.

They’ve helped me a lot which has been really nice,” Max said.

Customer service is a focus of the business.

He keeps an Excel spreadsheet of his cus-

tomer base and is quick to set aside requested earrings when messaged on social media.

Each set of earrings is packaged in neat blue or pink bags and comes with a handwritten thank you note from Max. “I’m not good at handwriting so at least they can tell it’s me who’s writing it.”

As for what he’ll spend his newfound riches on?

He’s a big fan of Pokemon and owns an impressive array of cards and merchandise that he may like to add to, but he’s keeping his options open for now. To purchase the earrings or browse the selection head to facebook.com/Earrings-of-Wonder-103520198821112/

Thursday, 25 November, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 15

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Lachie Fyfe

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I was stunt performer at Universal Studios in Singapore.

What are you most passionate about?

Beer, food and a good time.

What do you love about being a master brewer?

Seeing my friends smile drinking the beer I made!

THREE … free ways to stay healthy post-lockdown

1

Meal-prep your week night dinners. This will allow more time to get outside for that run or walk around the neighbourhood after work and help prevent burnout.

After a long day of work and then exercise, eating leftovers and freezing meals are alternatives to cooking every night.

2

YouTube fitness classes. YouTube is home to a wide array of free workout videos, from intense, one hour long routines to 20 minutes of light yoga.

3

Create a home gym. If the weather is not perfect for outdoor physical activity, having some simple equipment at home means not having to brace the elements. Equipment such as a skipping rope, dumbbells and exercise bands will save you money in the long run.

What is your experience in the industry?

I’ve been brewing for three years and had the opportunity to work with other successful brewers to learn the art of beer making.

Who is the best person you’ve worked with?

Dale from Bojak Brewing in Dandenong.

What would your last meal be?

Zac Pattison’s wings, washed down with a Thirty Eight 0 Six XPA What was your most memorable moment?

Getting the keys to our factory.

What was your favourite subject in school?

Outdoor ed, for sure!

Master brewer Lachie Fyfe will soon open a brewery in Berwick.

Which three guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

Travis Rice, Mick Fanning and Denzel Washington.

What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?

Small business marketing podcasts and the Operation Brewery podcast

How would you describe your fashion sense?

Sharp but comfy.

Bundalong, Victoria.

What were you like as a kid?

A ball of energy and slightly annoying.

If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?

Gourmet cheese toasties.

Do you consider yourself an extrovert or an introvert?

Extrovert.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

NEWS

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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

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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.”

12481470-NG07-21

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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By Mitchell Clarke

The Victorian Government’s Big Build project will heat up over summer with more than 10,000 construction workers focused on transforming road and rail infrastructure in the coming months.

There will be major works on 10 rail lines, including the Cranbourne/Pakenham line, and four critical roads including the West Gate Bridge, West Gate Freeway, Monash Freeway and M80 Ring Road.

Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan said Victorians would need to consider how the works would affect their travel plans before they hit the road.

“While these works take place there will be disruptions on the road and rail network,” Minister Allan said.

“Passengers and motorists are advised to plan their travel and allow extra travel time.”

Work to add 36 kilometres of lanes to the Monash Freeway between Warrigal Road and Cardinia Road will continue during January, resulting in periods of daytime lane closures, reduced speed limits and overnight shuts.

Motorists should expect significant delays of up to an hour at times on the West GateCityLink-Monash corridor over summer.

Buses will replace trains at various times across the network as the government continues to upgrade the Cranbourne line and remove level crossings.

Another four level crossings will be gone for good with a total of 58 crossings to be removed by the end of summer and three new stations opened to the public.

Two crossings will be removed at Greens Road, Cranbourne and Clyde Road, Berwick over summer, and a new Merinda Park Station will open to passengers in early 2022.

Track duplication on the Cranbourne/Pakenham Line is on target for completion in early 2022, a year ahead of schedule, resulting in ten-minute train services in the morning peak.

Passengers are asked to plan their journey and wear a mask while on public transport.

For more information about planned disruptions over summer visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Lighting up the season Running for the second year in a row, P & G Real Estate’s Christmas Lights Festival has begun for 2021.

Residents of Narre Warren South, Narre Warren North and surrounding areas are invited to register their home’s own Christmas light display by Sunday November 28 to be in the running to win one of many great prizes.

With a great community response from 2020’s Christmas Lights Festival, P & G Real Estate is excited to again be running this year’s festival. P & G Real Estate will put together a map of the local area showing all homes participating in the festival after registrations close. This ensures local residents will have a fun-filled evening of Covid-safe festivities, driving around to follow the map and visit each display.

P & G Real Estate office manager Stephanie Lui said they would love to see more homes participate and grow from last year’s participation level, which saw 18 homes decorated in the festive spirit.

“The participants don’t do it to win a prize, they do it because it’s fun and cheers people up,” Stephanie said.

“We wanted to create this festival because all of us in the office love driving around and looking at Christmas lights, so we thought it would be a great idea to encourage a community festival to bring locals together.”

First prize in the festival is a $1000 gift card, with second place receiving a $500 gift card and third place a $250 gift card. Those that register their homes and register to vote on the best displays will also go into the draw to win one of five $50 gift cards.

Voting opens on Friday 3 December and closes on Sunday 19 December, with the winners being announced on Facebook shortly after.

P & G Real Estate encourages visitors to be Covid-safe when viewing the displays - they are best viewed from your car or from a Covid-

Participants in the festival can win a range of great prizes.

P & G Real Estate are running their Christmas Lights Festival for the second year in a row. conscious social distance. Please refrain from touching the displays, and do not attend the displays if you are feeling unwell. Masks are

Pictures: SUPPLIED

The festival aims to bring the community together and spread festive cheer.

also recommended for your safety and that of others.

P & G Real Estate is located at Suite 34, Level

2, 66 Victor Crescent, Narre Warren. For more information and to vote for your favorite display, visit eviewevents.com.au

Property Sales and Rentals

#1 SALES TEAM IN NARRE WARREN SOUTH

Paul Organtzidis Director/Licensed Agent/Auctioneer 0431 646 115 paul.organtzidis@eview.com.au Fun Fact: Wishful Formula1 driver

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Rick Kothari Sales Consultant/Licensed Agent 0412 767 574 rick.kothari@eview.com.au Fun Fact: Food is life, or was it oxygen?

Osman Sulaiman Sales Consultant 0404 098 899 osman.sulaiman@eview.com.au Fun Fact: Hollywood celebrity, starred in two movies

Kevin Port-Louis Sales Consultant 0431 238 133 kevin.portlouis@eview.com.au Fun Fact: First love - Carlton Football Club

Jenna Mcintosh Senior Property Manager 0460 920 260 pgrentals@eview.com.au Fun Fact: Bike rides are everything

Stephanie Lui Office Manager (03) 9587 8881 stephanie.lui@eview.com.au Fun Fact: Renovator and aspiring Block contestant

Rachel Seal Sales Marketing Coordinator & Property Management (03) 9587 881 rachel.seal@view.com.au Fun Fact: Daredevil snowboarder

Suite 34, 66 Victor Cres Narre Warren VIC 3805 berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

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Seven years running 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020

9587 8881 pg.eview.com.au Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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STAR NEWS 17

THE GREAT

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It has been a tough year for many, so we hope to bring a little joy this Christmas.

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NEWS

Green thumbs at Nossal

By Jamie Salter Nossal High School students recently spent the day planting 200 native seedlings to make their school more environmentally friendly.

The annual tree planting day was held on November 19 and led by the Nossal Environmental Sustainability Team.

The students came into school on a pupilfree day to plant the seedlings, a donation from Fountain Gate Bunnings.

NEST leader Po Lin Ooi thanked the 33 students who attended the tree planting day.

“A special thank to Jason Bell, Michelle Desaulniers, Jenny Chandler and Melissa Neal (Fountain Gate Bunnings activities organiser) for all their help,” she said.

“The weather was just right for planting, not too hot and not too cold.

“It took almost two hours to plant about 200 trees.”

Principal Roger Page said the school has been revegetating the area over the years to provide more green space to students and staff.

“The NEST team is run by a strong group of students - they’re a very committed group,“ Mr Page said.

“The students own the landscape a bit more when they get involved.

“We’re ensuring the school is more green and environmentally friendly, and we will continue to do so.”

Nossal High School recently held a tree planting day.

He said Bunnings has supported the school for a number of years.

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Picture: NOSSAL HIGH SCHOOL

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The NEST team will soon plant an Indige-

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STAR NEWS 19

NEWS

Cider and Basil’s Tim Sauvarin gives Basil a hug.

Crowds gather at Wilson Botanical Gardens Park in Berwick.

Grace, 3, getting her face painted.

Twilight market was a hit

By Jamie Salter Crowds gathered at Berwick’s Wilson Botanical Gardens Park for Bourne Local’s new Twilight Market on November 19.

There was something for everyone with local products on display, including candles, chocolate, jewellery, and even alcohol.

Visitors lined up for a food truck favourite the potato twist - as well as bao buns, souvlaki and pizza.

There was a celebratory mood in the air as final Covid-19 restrictions lifted at 12.59pm on 18 November.

The next Twilight Market will be held on Friday 10 December.

People line up for food at the Twilight Market.

Emily, 2, and Amber, 5, enjoying their fairy floss.

Star News journalist Gabriella Payne gives Skipper a pat.

Epiphyte Creations’ Tom King selling planters and plant stands.

Murphy enjoys a ride around the market.

Jade Scott, 10, receives a Henna tattoo from R. Henna’s Rimsha Hasan.

20 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

Emma and David Goethe-Hooper of Defiance Distillery enjoying the market.

Pictures: JAMIE SALTER

Beautiful Blooms owner Judy Rowe selling her handmade products.

Visitors looking through a boutique clothing stall. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … SENIORS ENJOYING LIFE

Dance for fun and fitness The health benefits of dancing for seniors range from improving your physical health to creating strong social connections that increase your sense of wellbeing.

A 2018 study by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) showed a positive relationship between dancing and the physical and emotional health of older Australians.

Participants in the study experienced improved flexibility, boosted energy levels and better posture. Further studies have found that dancing can slow or even reverse the signs of ageing in the brain.

Among these benefits, older Australians are likely to experience an improvement in balance, coordination and spatial awareness, which in turn could reduce their likelihood of falls.

Dancing also provides an increase in heart rate, encouraging the movement of oxygen throughout the body. This has shown positive effects on heart and lung condition, and has the potential to lessen the risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease. Regular dance also assists in weight management, toning muscle, improving strength and reducing joint pain.

The benefits of dancing aren’t just physical.

Regular dancing has been shown to increase the size of the hippocampus, which is the region of the brain responsible for spatial navigation and memory formation.

Not only did study participants enjoy a range of physical and mental progress, they also experienced a shift in overall mood, selfesteem and confidence. This is attributed to a combination of the effects of physical exercise and the social interactions and connections formed during the dance classes.

Some things to consider Are you looking to dance on your own or

·

with a partner? Perhaps you’d like to join a group dance class, or maybe you’d prefer private lessons. What sort of dance style are you looking to engage in? The options are endless. Ballet, line dancing, Latin or salsa dancing, waltzing, tap dancing, dance aerobics and even seated dance classes are all popu-

lar styles you can choose from. you pull on your dancing shoes, it’s · Before important to consult your doctor or medi-

·

cal professional. They can provide you with proper advice tailored to your health needs.

Once you’ve got the go ahead, you should make sure that you hydrate properly before,

during and after you dance. Warming up and cooling down is also crucial to avoid stiffness or injury.

Take care not to over work yourself on the dance floor. Remember, it’s all about getting active and having fun. Now get out there and bust a move!

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 21

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Handy tips, healthy food

By Gabriella Payne The age old saying ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ has ensured many children stay healthy and strong with a nutritious, balanced diet for years now - and it’s still just as relevant a saying as any.

To help your children thrive in the classroom, it’s important to be feeding them a healthy, nutritious diet filled with all the energy they need to grow and flourish as young students.

But when life gets busy, it can be hard to ensure the food your family’s eating is covering all the necessary bases, so why not use these handy tips to help boost your child’s brain power?

Firstly: start your day the right way. Breakfast is often overlooked and sometimes rushed, but this morning meal is one of the most important of the day.

Fuelling up before school with a healthy balanced breakfast will ensure your child has all the energy they need to play, learn and power on throughout the day.

Whole grain cereals and toast are always a quick, easy option and for the colder months, why not try some porridge?

Fresh fruit smoothies, yoghurt, eggs and beans are all other quick, nutritious ideas… the ideas are limitless.

A healthy lunchbox made up of a mixture of foods will keep your kids happy and eating healthily, and to save on time, try preparing it the night before.

Opt for fresh, unprocessed foods such as pieces of fruit and tubs of yoghurt as sweet

treats and avoid processed, sugary foods which provide little to no nutritional value.

A good old fashioned sandwich with wholemeal bread is always a good lunch time staple, and remind your kids to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

If you struggle to get your kids to drink water, why not try adding a splash of lemon juice, or getting them a fun, colourful water bottle to drink out of?

Dinner ideas are endless, but as long as you’re getting plenty of veggies, some protein and other important nutrients in your diet, your kids will be perfectly placed to make the most out of their education.

And the last tip? By eating healthily yourself, you’ll be leading by example and be a healthy eating role model for your kids into the future.

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22 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Tutor program to continue In an attempt to ensure no student is left behind in the wake of the pandemic, the state government tutoring program will continue into 2022.

Minister for Education James Merlino announced $230.4 million in funding to allow Victorian schools to retain the tutors that have supported students throughout 2021.

The tutor program has called on teachers on leave, retired teachers and casual relief teachers to sign up and get back in the classroom – with at least one tutor in all government schools to ensure every Victorian child comes out of the pandemic with the confidence that their learning is on track.

While the past two years have seen some students thrive with the flexibility and self-direction remote learning gave them, for others this period has been profoundly difficult – and

the tutors have worked both in the classroom and through remote learning to identify and support the students who needed extra help with their learning.

Students who struggled most during the pandemic included those with low levels of English, those already at risk of disengaging from school, or those with home environments not conducive to online learning.

Tutors work in small groups to provide tailored support for identified students who need assistance to catch up, regardless of their circumstances or background.

The extra support for onsite tutors in 2022 will also ensure teaching teams can continue to provide dedicated and individualised support for students who need help.

Tutors will support Victorian students throughout 2022.

Advice for parents when dealing with school refusal Dr McKay-Brown suggests the following:

By Melissa Grant For many students, going to school is simple.

They have breakfast, put their uniform on and go.

However some students find attending school difficult and struggle with what’s called ‘school refusal’.

In its simplest form, school refusal is when a student can’t go to school. They don’t want to be there and will show features of emotional distress such as headaches or stomach aches.

Prolonged lockdowns in Victoria have led to more families experiencing school refusal.

Before the pandemic, an estimated 2-5 per cent of students were school refusing. It’s estimated those rates tripled when school returned between lockdowns.

Education expert Dr Lisa McKay-Brown says school refusal can happen at any point, but can be linked to periods of transition.

It also seems to be more prevalent between Years 5 and 9.

This is because of shifts in friendship groups and increased challenges of schooling at this time, according to Dr McKay-Brown who is part of the learning intervention team at Melbourne University.

She says there are usually warning signs for parents.

“Often you’ll hear things like ‘I don’t feel well today’, ‘I have a headache or a stomach ache, I don’t think I can face it’. Generally the symptoms subside if they don’t have to go to school,” she said.

She said children may also negotiate about going to school by asking to be picked up early, or struggle to get out of bed, the house or the car.

conversations with your child to get · Have a better sense of what is happening. Ask questions like ‘how are you feeling about school?’ and ‘are there some things that are difficult for you at school?’

Communicate with your child’s school.

You don’t want absences to continue so let the school know what’s happening and ask them if they have any support or advice School relationships. Relationships are important when returning to school. What check-ins can be organised? Is there a way of having peer connections maintained?

Seek professional support. A GP is your first point of call. They will determine if there needs to be some kind of mental health referral. Starting this process is important given the long wait times to see mental health professionals.

Maintain school routines. If you are at home it’s important to maintain the routine of a school day. Get your child out of bed, get them sitting at the table when it’s class time and keep them from more pleasurable activities such as gaming. If you are going to go for a walk do it in recess time.

Self-care. Parents need to think about their own self-care. They may need to seek support and family counselling can be helpful as school refusal is something that can impact the family unit.

The good news is that with the right support, young people who are school refusing can return to the classroom.

“It’s not forever - we know we can get young people back to school, it just takes time and it takes working on it,” Dr McKayBrown said.

· · ·

Young people experiencing school refusal can struggle to get out of bed.

The return of school after the weekend or holidays can also be particularly challenging, with children becoming clingy or tearful.

In these situations, Dr McKay-Brown said it was important to note that school refusal might just be one of the things going on.

“Research shows around 50 per cent of children presenting with school refusal have a mental health disorder,” she said.

Dr McKay-Brown said while there is anecdotal evidence that school refusal rates had tripled since the pandemic, more research is taking place.

“It’s been a time of high stress,” she explained.

“I think some people who may have been at risk of school refusal before the remote learning experience, for them it (remote learning) became an experience that the feel-

ings of anxiety and worry when they had to go to school lessened.”

She said parents and schools had to be careful when considering remote learning or home schooling as a solution to school refusal.

“Anecdotally we find that young people who are school refusing are less likely to engage in those types of learning situations,” she said.

It’s important to address school refusal.

In the short-term, school refusal can impact on a young person’s education, learning and peer relationships. Leaving school altogether can have long-term impacts as the young person won’t achieve their educational potential. Any mental health issues that aren’t address can have impacts into adulthood.”

So what can you do if your child is school refusing?

·

·

KOO WEE RUP SECONDARY COLLEGE TOURS We invite Grade 5 & 6 Students and Parents to take our virtual tour which can be found on our website, or alternatively please contact the College to book an on-site tour. For further information, please contact Mr Todd Slater (Assistant Principal) or Ms Lauren Harvey (Year 7 Learning Community Leader.)

Our school aims to provide a quality education for all students:

Learn more information about:

• Friendly, caring environment • Supportive Learning Communities complemented by a strong House system.

• SEAL (Select Entry Accelerated Learning) Program for gifted students.

• Extensive Sports, Music, Creative and Performing Arts programs • State of the Art Year Level Learning Centres.

• Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program.

• Transition from Grade 6 to Year 7.

• Our Learning Communities and facilities.

• SEAL Program application process.

• School Bus Transport.

• Inclusive Education Program.

• Extra-curricular programs provided by the school, including the instrumental Music Program.

• Hear from our students about their school experiences.

TO BOOK AN ON-SITE TOUR: (TOURS HELD MON & THURS AT 10.15AM)

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5997 1444

Thursday, 25 November, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 23

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Parent support is central

the gate. Instead, they are at the heart of their child educational journey.

“It is a wonderful benefit for parents to get

to know the parents of their children’s friends well because it becomes such an ally for them as they raise their children.”

The Peralta family enjoys the Harkaway Hills College.

12520560-DL45-21

Shrouded by the natural beauty of lush, green rolling hills, Harkaway Hills College punches well above its weight for a school that only opened five years ago.

This year’s student highlights include winning the interschool cross country carnival, taking out a state-wide poetry competition and coming out on top in a local short story competition.

The school’s bumper NAPLAN results were also a highlight following more than a year of remote education.

College parents Damien and Tatiana Burger say the key to the school’s success lies in supporting the parents.

“By focusing on developing and supporting parental confidence, we end up helping the students in the best way that we can,” Damien said.

The Burgers, who were among the cofounding parents of Harkaway Hills College, fell in love with the PARED model of education because of the encouragement it provides to parents as the first educators of their children.

“There were families in Melbourne who wanted the same support, so we got together, and here we are today, the first PARED school in Victoria,” Tatiana said.

The couple said friendship is a vital aspect of PARED schools because friendship makes for a beautiful community.

“Parents can gather in our dedicated parent room at any time of the day and have a coffee and a chat. They are always welcome and are always encouraged to spend time together,” Tatiana said.

Dr Andrew Mullins, who cofounded the PARED model of Education in Australia, said parents at Harkaway Hills College don’t stop at

We have limited places available in kindergarten for our 2022 3-Year-Old and 4-Year-Old early learning programs. Find out how our world-class International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program and expert ELC staff can help your child flourish in their learning through action in our intimate learning spaces and classes.

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24 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Discover Berwick Lodge The word ‘interesting’ is much overused - a sort of ‘cover-all-bases’ word. I hesitate to use it in welcoming in term 4, 2021 for that express purpose. Yet, despite my reluctance, it is an appropriate word for the times.

Children returned to remote learning for the start of the term - some onsite, most at home.

Then in weeks 3 to 6 we had a most complicated staggered return to school.

I do confess to having dreamt of a much better school scenario for our children this year. But dreams can be flaky and are never more than a moment or two from becoming nightmares.

If nothing else, the past year and three quarters has highlighted some very important positives. Not the least of these being the flexibility and adaptability of schools and their communities. Wherever your children attend

VISIT OUR VIRTUAL SCHOOL TOUR TODAY

school, despite some bumpy times, I’d be confident that in the vast majority of cases, the unity of purpose and teamwork between the home and school has been the cornerstone of whatever success have been enjoyed. That’s been in the best interests of our children, no doubt about it.

If you are still considering a school for your child for next year, why not check us out on our website: www.berwicklodgeps.vic.edu.au

and contact us via email or phone for the link to our Webex meetings next term.

By the way, we are still taking enrolments from beyond our zone, if that is something of interest to you.

- Henry Grossek, Principal of Berwick Lodge Primay School

ENROL GIRLS GRADE 3-7 2022

Our virtual school tour allows you to experience Berwick Lodge Primary School spaces as though you are physically there.

Using emerging technology, we have mapped spaces across the school to create 3D tours and 360-degree walkthroughs.

Immerse yourself in the spaces, move around, explore and look out for LODGIE BEAR along the way.

For more details visit: www.berwicklodgeeps.vic.edu.au

Kevin Heinze Best School Garden Award 2018 P: 9709 6700 F: 9796 2198 E: berwick.lodge.ps@edumail.vic.gov.au Visit our website to check out the virtual tour www.berwicklodgeps.vic.edu.au

Mentoring each girl to reach her full potential.

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berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 25 November, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 25

NEWS

Danni and Zara, 4, from Langwarrin in the sand-pit play area of the Ross Reserve All-Abilities Playground. 258251 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Sri Ruby Jarvis and Idris, 3, from Noble Park in the sensory play area. 258251

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Parker, 4, from Berwick. 258251

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Fun for all

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Youth Minister Ros Spence, mayor Angela Long and Premier Daniel Andrews officially open Ross Reserve all-abilities playground on 5 November.

Thrill-seekers are having a blast at the spectacular $2.5 million All-Abilities playground in Ross Reserve.

The regional attraction is designed for inclusive fun for children and adults of all ages and sizes.

It includes a double-run flying fox with an accessible harness seat, inclusive in-ground trampolines, an accessible ramp with slides, basket swings and climbing nets, and a tower with three giant slides and rope-net bridge.

There is also a five-bay swing frame with harness and sling seats, a Liberty swing and sandpit water play area.

The fenced playground is fully accessible with a circuit concrete path.

Former Greater Dandenong councillor Matthew Kirwan initiated the project in 2013 after parents of disabled children highlighted

Dylan, 8, from Balwyn takes a swing. 258251

Dylan, 8, from Balwyn on a harness swing. 258251

26 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

Picture: GARY SISSONS

there were no all-abilities playgrounds in the area.

“Feedback from many residents, with children with a disability and without, was that many of our playgrounds were boring in comparison with other municipalities.”

“This was a great opportunity to create the first mega-playground in Greater Dandenong.”

Stage 1 of the playground was officially opened by Premier and Mulgrave MP Daniel Andrews, Youth Minister Ros Spence and thenmayor Angela Long on 5 November.

It was jointly funded by the State Government and City of Greater Dandenong.

Noble Park Revitalisation Board, Noble Park Community Centre, Sandown Lions Football Club, Springvale City Soccer Club, Noble Park Football Club Juniors, Land Design Partnership, Ethos Urban and Warrandale were involved in the building and design.

Picture: GARY SISSONS berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

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,

MANYwww.m

anningsfuner als.com

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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STAR NEWS 27

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

MAGNIFICENT 1880S MANSION PRESENTING an incredibly rare and exciting opportunity to become the next custodians of ‘Rossmoyne’, one of the area’s oldest and most magnificent residences. This stately 1880s mansion is being offered for the first time in over 20 years.

Nestled amongst beautiful, established gardens on a substantial 2067sqm (approx.), this elegant and impeccably maintained home simply commands attention from its elevated position on Surrey Road.

Past a sweeping driveway and deep return verandah, a grand entrance hall with exquisite leadlight, decorative plasterwork, wainscoting and original timber ceilings provides the perfect welcome, setting the scene for the calibre of the finishes that can be found within. A formal lounge (fireplace) looks out across the stunning gardens and will set hearts aflutter with its elegance and period detailing. An equally impressive formal dining room complete with stained timber panelling and separate servery room is located opposite - imagine the grand gatherings that have taken place within these walls.

An open plan living/dining zone and contemporary kitchen extend to an outdoor room with built-in barbeque, while a home office and master bedroom with semi-ensuite access complete the main residence’s lower level. Two additional over-sized bedrooms - both with ensuites are positioned upstairs along with a pretty alcove from which views to the Dandenongs can really be appreciated. Ducted heating,

split systems, a three-car garage and triple carport are among the home’s practicalities.

Former servants’ quarters and a rear cottage provide potential guest accommodation - they are both self-

contained with living areas, bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms, and enjoy their own private access.

This unparalleled and historically significant property is situated in the sought-

after Rosewood Downs estate and is close to schools, parks, shopping destinations and transport. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 23-25 Surrey Road, DANDENONG NORTH Description: 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 6 garage Price: On application Inspect: By appointment Contact: Michael Hall, 0434 862 640, HODGES REAL ESTATE - CHELSEA, 9584 6500

Presenting an incredibly rare opportunity to become the next custodians of one of the area’s oldest and most magnificent residences, this stately 1880s mansion is being offered for the first time in over 20 years. On a sweeping 2067sqm (approx.), its former servants’ quarters and rear cottage provide extra guest accommodation. 5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | 6 Cars

12523514-JW48-21

ROSSMOYNE A RARE AND EXCITING OPPORTUNITY

Auction Saturday 18th December at 11:30am Michael Hall Ph: 0434 862 640 E: mhall@hodges.com.au Paul Johnston Ph: 0419 582 035 E: pjohnston@hodges.com.au Hodges Real Estate | 450 Nepean Highway, Chelsea.

28 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

LIFESTYLE AND SMART INVESTMENT A UNIQUE opportunity for a glorious lifestyle though also appeals to the savvy investor! A location you just can’t surpass in this day and age.

The 79 acres is prime quality land for grazing, producing large quantities of fodder and market topping cattle. Well laid out with all year-round laneways, mixture of paddock sizes and gentle undulation again perfect for grazing the full four seasons!

Less than 5 minutes drive to the centre of Warragul or Drouin CBD’s (both which are rapidly expanding) and just 3.7km to the freeway entrance the capital growth expectation is undeniable.

The home is just 3.5 years young, beautifully designed and built with all living, dining and kitchen areas north facing. There are 4 bedrooms, 2 separate living rooms, walk in pantry, walk in linen, 3 toilets, built in robes to all secondary bedrooms and walk in robe and ensuite to the master bedroom.

Full security system, bitumen driveway and ease of access. The oversized double garage offers internal access to the home. Double glazing and ducted vacuum throughout and solar HWS with electric backup.

Ducted heating and air-conditioning, high ceilings throughout and beautiful sparkling stone benches just to name a few of the many features of the home!

There is a disused dairy, good yards, loading race and under cover crush makes farming much more pleasant. Combination barb and electric fences, 2 dams with windmill and solar pump on spring fed dam pumping to header tank and reticulating to

troughs across the property.

Add to this, the low maintenance landscaping includes colorbond balustrades to ensure longevity, the owners have paid

particular attention to detail with care.

An opportunity that could be your joy and your fortune… will sell! Don’t hesitate before it’s too late!

Just 1 hour to Melbourne CBD. For Sale by Auction on Saturday, 11 December at 11.30am on site.

Terms: 10% Deposit. 60/90/120 days ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 415 Lardner Road, WARRAGUL WEST Inspect: By appointment Auction: Saturday, 11 December at 11.30am on site. Terms: 10% Deposit. 60/90/120 days Contact: Miranda Pike, 0404 193 205, SEJ REAL ESTATE, 5622 3800 T 16P_

A FAMILY OASIS ON 6 ACRES

12523830

HOW SWEET IT IS TO COME HOME...

T 16P_

~3 ACRES WITH OLd HOME IN NEEd OF TLC

T 16P_

LET’S GO COUNTRY

17 TOORONGO COURT WARRAGUL

18 TARWIN STREET WARRAGUL

2 WIMPOLE ROAd BUNYIP

LOT 1 CHILdERS SETTLEMENT Rd CHILdERS

Designed for a busy family, this 4br home located in quiet court on 6 acres offers the best in quality & comfort. Includes 4br’s, ensuite, timber kitchen/ stone bench’s, elec cooking & dishwasher. Sep dining room, solid fuel, central heating & r/c aircon.

Generous study, library room, tv room & formal lounge upstairs. Rumpus room, double carport, double garage, shedding & covered entertaining area. Sm orchard, stockyards & one lge paddock.

Agent: SALLY JONES 0417 037 079

5 bedrooms (or 4 + study), 3 living rooms, 3 toilets, Master bedroom with Walk in Robe & Ensuite. High ceilings, ducted heating, timber floors & loads of light from the north streams into the sunroom & private sheltered courtyard for most all year entertaining. There is a sizable backyard with raised vegetable patches, a pergola with built in BBQ. The shed for storage or workshop. Wonderful location short walk to sporting grounds, Golf club, walking trails and min. drive to town or local schools.

Agent: MIRANDA PIKE 0404 193 205

The home has 4 brs, solid Iron bark frame, partial restumping with concrete stumps & beautiful views. No chemicals have been used on the land.

Underground power & permanent spring fed dam.

Massive shedding includes 24x20x9m plus 55x20x9 divided to ½ living quarters & ½ lock up all purpose tool shed. There are 2 open bays, 4 tool sheds, bird aviaries & dog pens. Only 82km to Melbourne & just 3Km North of Bunyip Township. This property would suit any purpose (business or farm).

Agent: MIRANDA PIKE 0404 193 205

Sit back and absorb the sounds of the country or take a walk and discover the natural wonders.

Away from it all, providing a marvellous feeling of freedom this 58 Acres provides a blissful lifestyle for retreat or permanent living. 9x13.5m Machinery shed, 3 phase power, lights, upstairs kitchenette, tank water, septic system, 6x15m shearing shed, 5x9m hayshed and good provisions / infrastructure for cattle, sheep, horses etc. Happy days are enjoyed here!

Agent: Miranda Pike 0404 193 205

$1,500,000 - $1,650,000

$550,000 - $575,000

$1,100,000

$800,000 - $880,000

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

T 8P_

AU CT IO N

Away from it all with views forever, 56 acres prime chocolate soils (~15 acres bush) Vesper & Stoney Creeks flowing through. An extremely well presented property with home & farm buildings in very good condition. Carries 20 breeders.

Home built 1975 with extension 2006, 2 internal br plus 2 external detached br, two car garage, machinery, hay sheds & more. Excellent stockyards plus spring fed dam. Located 15 mins from Noojee.

ENQUIRIES: MAX CANOBIE 0429 858 384

A PRIME location between Drouin, Warragul & Freeway Access! 3.5yr old home beautifully kept inc solar, double glazing, 4BR, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 spacious living areas & large DBL garage URL. Superb northerly aspect! Reliable water, troughs, 2 dams, good stock yards, crush & laneways. The best soils with top fertiliser history, ideal typography!

Exciting & opportune time to invest your savings where they will grow.

Agent: MIRANDA PIKE 0404 193 205

41 FORTUNA ROAd VESPER

415 LARdNER ROAd WARRAGUL WEST

AUCTION: SATURdAY 4TH dEC 12 NOON TERMS: 10% deposit Settlement 90 days

AUCTION: SATURdAY 11TH dECEMBER 2021 11.30 AM TERMS: 10% deposit Settlement 60/90/120 days

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

79 ACRES - BETWEEN dROUIN & WARRAGUL UGZ’S

AU CT IO N

VESPER HIGH COUNTRY RETREAT

Copy (1)

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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STAR NEWS 29

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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STAR NEWS 31

NEWS

Bowlers eye Jack(pot)

By Marcus Uhe All eyes at Springvale’s Burden Park Bowling Club will be drawn to the 2021 TAB Melbourne Cup at Sandown Greyhound Racing Club on Friday night.

The club has drawn the hot betting favourite, Aston Rupee, in the Melbourne Cup Community Sweep, with a first prize of $6000 up for grabs.

Trained by Devon Meadows trainer Glenn Rounds, Aston Rupee has been in terrific form this year, winning his last four consecutive races and missing the podium just twice from his 31 starts in 2021.

Burden Park Club president Bruce Smith was over the moon when he learnt that they had drawn the favourite in the sweep.

“I couldn’t believe our good fortune,” Smith said.

“I was there last Friday night when I saw it win its heat and, fingers crossed, it’ll go one better this week.

“If we were lucky enough that this dog wins for us, we could put that money into some new furniture for the club. That’s going to be the main priority because we badly need to upgrade our furniture, and that money will go a long way to doing that.

“It’s really the chairs in the venue that are a bit dated. You start talking 150-plus new chairs. That’ll soon suck up a few dollars.

“It’s so much needed, and we’re just super excited about being involved.”

Like many community sporting clubs, Smith said that the last two years have been difficult financially for Burden Park.

“With the Covid lockdown, our income stream obviously dried up. We just couldn’t have any events.

“Now that we’re back playing bowls and something like this has come along, it’s given us a real push along. It’s really great.”

Any incorporated sporting or community group based in Victoria was eligible to enter the sweep with a $13,000 prize pool.

The 64 available entries in the sweep were filled within a week, with eight winners from last Friday night’s heats chosen for the “The World’s Greatest Greyhound Race” Sandown Greyhound Racing Club chief executive officer Adrian Scott said the sweep was designed to provide a cash injection to clubs hit hard by the pandemic.

“This is the second year now that we’ve done a community sweep,” Scott said.

“It’s trying to support some clubs that have certainly been impacted by Covid and it’s an opportunity for them to pick up a few bucks.”

“It’s just a really good way to try to get the community involved.”

Smith said he’s trying to organise a group of his teammates to head to Sandown to see Aston Rupee race again.

“I’m going to try and have as many as I can

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to try and get to Sandown and watch the race live. We want to be there to cheer it home.”

Scott likes their chances of seeing it past the post first.

“I don’t think there’s much doubt that he’s the quickest greyhound in Australia.

“He just needs a bit of luck in the barrier draw, but if he can find the front early in the race, he’ll take a fair bit of running down.”

The Melbourne Cup will be run just after 8.50pm on Friday.

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SPORT

Charlie is turning heads

By David Nagel Beaconsfield youngster Charlie Johnson has taken the giant step from junior to senior cricket in his stride after spinning up a storm against a dazzled Coomoora B Grade side on Saturday.

Charlie, the son of Beaconsfield senior coach Brendan, put his ever-improving leg spinners to good use – claiming the remarkable figures of 7/8 off 4.3 overs in the Dandenong and District Cricket Association (DDCA) clash at Grices Road.

Charlie has been working on his leggies since the age of eight, when he first worked out he could give the ball a decent tweak.

“I’ve been bowling leggies since I started playing cricket, some of them came out well, and turned, so I kept doing it,” Charlie explained.

“I’ve done lots of practice over the last few years and through the off-season. I used to have lots of flight, but I don’t have much flight anymore and I can bowl them a lot quicker.”

Charlie, 14, had the Coomoora batsmen in a spin from the outset, when he took the ball with the opposition sitting on 3/34 in search of Beaconsfield’s 7/144 from earlier in the day.

Charlie would take the last seven wickets to fall, leaving the Coomoora side scratching its head after being bundled out by the younggun for 44.

At one stage he took three wickets in four balls!

“My first wicket came in my second over, there were two stumpings and five catches, a lot of them top edges,” Charlie said.

“After a while I felt like I was on a roll, it felt like I could land it on the spot, it was very exciting.

“I got 4/14 in an under-16s match once so these are my best figures.”

Charlie became interested in cricket at a young age, following his dad Brendan around the traps before starting to play himself and quickly falling in love with the sport.

Under the guidance of former Beaconsfield spinner Matt Golding he rapidly improved, and is now looking to take his craft to new levels.

Charlie, who has a top-score of 65 with the bat, already has variations with his bowling, but is looking to add more!

“I can spin it a lot and I have a couple of variations…I can bowl a top-spinner but I didn’t bowl it on the weekend,” he said.

“I love bowling leg-spinners, I try and rip them, and I can bowl a wrong-un as well.

‘I’m trying to develop a flipper…but that’s a

Charlie Johnson landed his leggies perfectly on Saturday taking an incredible 7/8 for Beaconsfield against Coomoora. 258989 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS two-year plan.”

The Berwick College student used to play junior football for Beaconsfield and basketball for his home-town of Berwick at Dandenong Stadium.

But he is now focussed on just having fun and really enjoying his cricket.

And it’s no surprise who his cricketing hero is!

“Dad is definitely my hero and I love watching Marnus Labuschagne bat, and also Scott Edwards, who plays for the Netherlands and Monash Tigers,” he said.

“I’d like to play with dad at some point and just go as far as I can with my cricket and work as hard as I can. I love bowling to dad and the senior players at Beaconsfield – it’s a lot of fun.”

Charlie has already been identified as a talent of the future, playing representative cricket

in the Under-12 Kevin Mitchell Shield and the Under-14 Russell Allen Shield.

His older brother Oliver and younger brother Harry also both play cricket, while Charlie considers his cricket teammates as some of his closest friends.

Brendan couldn’t be there to watch Charlie dominate on Saturday, but had regular updates on proceedings.

“His mum (Gabby) was there, and she was pretty excited, so I got regular text messages about what was happening,” Brendan said.

“He has played a couple of senior games before but that’s the first big game he has had.

“I’m very proud, but it’s just good to see a smile on his face…that’s the main thing.”

You get the feeling that Charlie’s smile will be hard to wipe off as long as he has a spinning cricket ball fizzing out of his hands!

Loads of practice is paying off for Charlie…who just loves to give it a rip! 258989

Picnic racing at Woolamai City start season in style with big win over the Roar

Picnic racing gallops into action this Saturday at the Woolamai Racecourse.

It’s always a great atmosphere with families and social groups meeting under the famous elm trees.

After a difficult last two seasons with no crowds or limited numbers, racegoers were able to come back to racing in good numbers to the Cranbourne Cup recently. Woolamai and District Racing Club Secretary, Adam Olszanski, is encouraging people to attend.

“We can now have unlimited attendance

and vaccinated patrons will appreciate the upgrades to facilities including expanded lawn viewing area, new bar and upgraded toilet facilities,” Olszanski said.

“Race fields are looking strong with many trainers anxious to kick off their horses’ summer campaigns this coming Saturday. I would encourage people to purchase tickets through the club’s website.”

The Woolamai Racecourse is situated on Trew Rd just east of the Bass Township.

Racing returns to the picturesque setting of Woolamai racecourse on Saturday. 189546 Picture: SUPPLIED berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

By Nick Creely Melbourne City has kicked off its A-League Men premiership defence in fine style, defeating Brisbane Roar 2-1 at AAMI Park on Friday night.

It didn’t go all the way for the reigning champions out of Casey Fields, who had to scrap hard in the season opening clash, but two goals in a matter of moments just before the half-time break was the catalyst for the win.

Curtis Good got the ball into the back of the net with a strike from close range to get City on the board for the first time this season, before only moments later Connor Metcalfe showed some handy footwork to deliver a strike and send the champs to 2-0.

While the Roar battled hard in the second half, finding the goals with a Luke Ivanovic strike shooting past the goal-keeper, City held onto its lead to bank the opening round points.

Patrick Kisnorbo was able to field his all-Socceroo front three for the first time in

Matthew Leckie, Jamie Maclaren and Andrew Nabboutm with the trio shining with their composure and experience.

Kisnorbo said that Roar made them earn the win and could have snatched a win after fading away in the second-half.

“I don’t feel fortunate, the second half wasn’t great at all, I’m not happy with the first half,” he said.

“We did some good things, but we’ve got to look over the game - we need to work at that and address that.

“Our pressure on the ball was slow, we became pretty slow with the ball, and our positioning was wrong.”

Despite being disappointed with elements of the game, Kisnorbo was pleased to walk away with the points.

“It’s great to get minutes into their legs, you could see they were fatiguing,” he said.

“It’s the first round, so there’s a build up to game one, so we were able to ground out a result.”

City will now face Adelaide on Saturday night at home.

Thursday, 25 November, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 33

SPORT

Softball is back at Casey Finally - after what is hopefully our last ever lockdown - Casey Softball Association is able to get back on the diamonds this Saturday 27 November. The association is starting the day with a ‘Come and Try Day’ for junior players, with girls and boys of any ability up to 16 years old more than welcome to come and try their hand at a new sport.

The under 16s will kick things off from 8.50am to 10.20am. They will then make way for players up to 13 years old from 10.40am to 12.10pm.

There will be experienced coaches and players on hand to help those new to softball, and officials on hand to help with registration should anyone want to start playing. The junior season will officially kick off the following week on Saturday 4 December.

The senior season starts this week with the Social Womens games at 12.40pm and 2.30pm.

There will also be an Open Women and Men’s competition that will be playing Fully Loaded Softball (T20 for softball) from 4.30pm.

Come to Sweeney Reserve and have a look.

If anyone is interested in playing softball its not too late to register. Just contact us via our Casey Softball Association Facebook page, or email to caseysoftball.vic@gmail.com

Casey Softball Association is finally back on the plate and ready to launch some big hits this season. 233828

Noah Keltie whips one cross-court. 258775

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Carl Liddo sends one down for Pakenham.

Picture: ROB CAREW

Beaconsfield’s Jess Brown possesses a stylish backhand.

Juniors hit the courts as tennis returns with a smash!

By David Nagel The junior stars of the Berwick District Tennis Association (BDTA) came out swinging on Saturday with lockdowns finally over and improving weather conditions allowing a full round of competition to take place.

Results were mixed, with heart-stopping draws and one-sided contests proving that the highs and lows of sport are back.

BERWICK DISTRICT TENNIS ASSOCIATION SATURDAY Osborne Shield Beaconsfield Green 3 6:36 v Upper Beaconsfield 0 0:5, Harkaway 1 3:41 v Beaconsfield Blue 2 5:48, Narre Warren 3 6:37 v Fountain Gate 0 0:17.

Rubbers 1 Beaconsfield 1 2:21 v Berwick Blue 2 4:32, Berwick White 1 2:33 v Harkaway 2 5:41, Cranbourne 1 2:18 v Narre Warren 2 4:33.

Rubbers 2 Beaconsfield 1 3:28 v Berwick 2 4:33, Cranbourne 1 4:43 v Bunyip 2 4:36, Fountain Gate Bye.

· · ·

Rubbers 3 Harkaway missing results v Pakenham, Officer 2 4:40 v Berwick 1 4:43, Cranbourne Bye. Rubbers 4 Beaconsfield Red wash out v Fountain Gate. Pakenham 2 4:38 v Beaconsfield White 1 3:31, Cranbourne 1 4:43 v Officer 2 4:39.

Rubbers 5 Pakenham 3 6:41 v Beaconsfield 0 1:22, Officer 0 0:7 v Drouin 3 6:36, Bunyip Bye. Section 1 Berwick 5:43 v Cranbourne 3:32, Narre Warren North 7:49 v Sandhurst 1:28, Harkaway Bye. Section 2 Beaconhills (Pak) 5:41 v Berwick White 3:31, Berwick Blue 5:36 v Narre Warren 3:35, Sandhurst 4:34 v Narre Warren North 4:34.

Section 3 Cranbourne Blue 5:39 v Pakenham 3:38, Narre Warren 5:39 v Cranbourne Gold 3:35, Narre Warren North 7:44 v Clyde 1:24.

Section 4

· · · · · ·

6:40v Narre Warren 2:28, Bea- · Officer 2:32 v Pakenham 6:43, Berwick 6:44 · Beaconsfield conhills (Pak) 5:38 v Pakenham 3:33, Upper v Clyde 2:23, Fountain Gate 0:8 v Tooradin Beaconsfield Bye. Section 5 Cranbourne 5:41 v Berwick White 3:26, Berwick Blue 5:40 v Gloucester 3:34, Clyde 3:28 v Narre Warren North 5:36.

Section 6 Cranbourne 6:39 v Berwick White 2:30, Berwick Blue 2:24 v Beaconsfield 6:41, Narre Warren South wash out v Pakenham.

Section 7 Narre Warren North 2:26 v Cranbourne 6:41, Sandhurst 3:31 v Clyde 5:40, Narre Warren Bye. Section 8 Lang Lang 7:44 v Upper Beaconsfield 1:16, Officer 5:36 v Fountain Gate 3:26, Sandhurst Bye. SUNDAY Section 9 Cranbourne 1:22 v Berwick 7:47, Narre Warren 8:49 v Officer 0:12, Beaconhills (Pak) 2:27 v Beaconsfield 6:41.

Section 10

· · · · ·

8:48.

Section 11 Cranbourne 2:32 v Berwick Blue 6:40, Beaconsfield 3:35 v Pakenham 5:39, Berwick White – Bye. Section 12 Officer Blue 4:39 v Berwick 4:33, Cranbourne 3:31 v Beaconsfield 5:36, Officer White Bye. Section 13 Narre Warren 7:48 v Berwick Blue 1:12, Berwick White 4:34 v Fountain Gate 4:31, Sandhurst Bye. Section 14 Doubles Officer 2:19 v Berwick 4:34, Clyde 2:21 v Narre Warren 4:31, Narre Warren South Bye. Section 15 Doubles Gloucester 3:28 v Cranbourne 3:26, Berwick 1:18 v Narre Warren 5:35, Upper Beaconsfield Bye. Section 16 Doubles (4 team section) Narre Warren South 6:36 v Sandhurst 0:4, Officer 0:20 v Tooradin 6:36.

· · · · · ·

12520771-BL45-21

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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SPORT

Perfect start for Swans

By Nick Creely There’s plenty to like about the new-look Casey-South Melbourne as it began its new era under Will Carr on Saturday.

It was not too long ago - on 5 October 2019 in fact - that Casey-South Melbourne began the Victorian Premier Cricket season with the same fixture.

A one-day clash against Prahran, but the only difference was it being played at Casey Fields, and it was a disastrous way to start a season, rolled for just 45 against a red-hot True Blues attack breathing utter fire.

If maturity as a cricket club - and a team can be defined by how you bounce back from those kinds of matches, then the Swans are not only on the right track, but have certainly shelved the things that have failed them in the past.

Not only did the new-look Swans - introducing four debutants - bank a memorable win to kick-off the season, and after such an arduous wait to return to the field, it was on the True Blues’ home soil, on the very day it unfurled its premiership flag from last season.

These are certainly the wins that will set the tone now for Michael Wallace’s group.

There would be no top order collapse this time around as the Swans elected to bat, with Ashley Chandrasinghe (28) and Lachie Sperling (18) providing a strong platform, but a double strike from True Blues paceman Nick Boland - both caught behind - had the game on level pegging.

On debut, Jordan Gilmore (22) looked comfortable, but a stunning catch at mid-wicket from skipper Jake Hancock off an errant pull shot brought about his undoing. The freakish catch had to be seen to be believed.

Touted highly, and coming into the season with a tinge of expectation, youngster Harrish Kannan batted with maturity, first linking up in a vital 66-run stand with Devin Pollock (25) but anchoring the middle-part of the innings to set the Swans on its way to 8/211.

Kannan faced 114 balls for an assured 77, hit a lovely six, and showed poise with the bat to really lock down his spot in the Swans’ middle order in a sign of things to come.

He navigated challenging spells from Matt Wilcox, Bailey Moon and Lachie Bangs and waited for the right ball to hit. As already mentioned, it indicated a maturity that has perhaps previously not been there.

Ruwantha Kellepotha receives his first XI cap on debut from coach Will Carr.

“He’s another year older, got a bit more experience so he’ll grow into a bona-fide first XI cricketer,” Swans coach Will Carr said of his emerging young star only weeks before the start of the season..

“He’s one to really keep an eye on this season.”

As they say, the coach knows best.

Carr said Saturday’s performance was one in which his group showed tremendous grit. “(It was) a tough wicket at Prahran,” Carr said.

“All the batters fought really hard against a good attack. “(Harrish) Kannan was outstanding, both technically correct and creative.”

Nick Boland was the shining light for the home side, turning in an excellent return of 5/40 from his 10 overs.

But was 211 enough against a True Blues batting group - fresh off a premiership - and with the sprinkling of names such as Nick

Picture: COURTESY OF CHRIS THOMAS

Blaich, Lachie Bangs, Damon Egan, Jake Hancock and James Billington?

In the end, yes, but not many would have predicted the Swans could hold the reigning premiers back, especially with their leading quick from last season, Cal Dodson missing with illness.

Usually possessing a trademark aggression and fluency, the True Blues simply couldn’t get their game up and running, struggling after some early wickets which saw them stumble to 4/60 and scrambling hard late before ultimately it all became too difficult.

On debut, leggie Ruwantha Kellepotha was a marvel, snagging 3/24 off his 10 overs - importantly sending down four maidens in the process - to be the match-turner.

Kellepotha - on debut after a stunning period of dominance in the Dandenong District Cricket Association - snared three of the most important wickets, Damon Egan (16), skipper Jake Hancock (16), and the ominously dangerous James Billington (4) with some excellent

spin bowling, and tricks that come with so much experience.

Fellow spinner Luke Shelton (1/37) also bowled nicely on debut, spearhead Nathan Lambden (3/40) provided the finishing touches and bowled quite quickly, left-armer Jackson Fry (1/24) got the ball rolling with a terrific new-ball spell that included one of his great celebrations, while debutant Evan Allaway (1/22) will remember his maiden wicket, Nick Blaich, for a long-time after the True Blues keeper-bat looked to dispatch him but losing his stumps.

“Kellapotha was brilliant,” Carr said.

“He took three key wickets, and just didn’t bowl a bad ball.

“And he was well supported by the rest of the bowling group.”

It was a complete team performance from the Swans who will now be aiming to make it two from two when they welcome another highly fancied opponent in Melbourne to Casey Fields.

Sandown set for classic rendition of Melbourne Cup

By David Nagel

TAB MELBOURNE CUP FIELD Friday 26 November, 2021

The stage is set for the running of “the world’s greatest greyhound race” after the box draw for Friday night’s $500,000 to-the-winner Group-1 TAB Melbourne Cup Final (515m) took place at the Eureka Tower on Sunday.

The race-favourite and track-record holder at Sandown Park – Aston Rupee – has drawn box four for the classic, opening up a plethora of scenarios for the biggest race on the Australian greyhound racing calendar.

Trained by Glenn Rounds, Aston Rupee – a recent winner of the Group-1 Topgun – is Australia’s number one sprinter.

The Melbourne Cup looks set to be an absorbing contest, with the fastest beginner in the field – Aussie Secret – drawing the coveted red-rug in box-one.

Aussie Secret has a habit of pinging from the boxes and drifting wide, meaning there could be some serious carnage as eight of the fastest dogs in the country run down the straight for the first time.

Last Friday night’s eight heats at Sandown Park provided world-class racing!

Unquestionably, the ‘world-beaters’ were Lala Kiwi (Heat 8), Lakeview Walter (Heat 7) and Aston Rupee (Heat 4).

Lala Kiwi ($3.50), prepared by Victoria’s leading trainer Andrea Dailly, set the time standard with a slick 29.24sec victory.

The G3 Cranbourne Classic winner notched her 16th win from 37 starts. She was berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Aston Rupee retained favouritism for Friday night’s Melbourne Cup at Sandown despite drawing a squeeze box in four. 259041 Picture: GRV also a finalist in the G1 Topgun and G2 Cranbourne Cup. Trained by Monique Whelan, Lakeview Walter ($3.70) – who has battled wrist issues – returned to his brilliant best in 29.26sec.

Winner of the G1 Silver Chief, G3 Silver Bullet and G3 The Ambrosoli, Lakeview Walter registered his 11th win from 29 starts. He was also a finalist in the G1 Temlee and G1 Harrison-Dawson.

It’s said, “Uneasy is the head that wears the crown” and there were some anxious moments for trainer Glenn Rounds with Australia’s No. 1 sprinter Aston Rupee ($1.50fav).

But the superstar now gets his chance to join former champ Bombastic Shiraz as

the only greyhound to win the ‘triple crown’ (Shootout, Topgun and Melbourne Cup) after a spellbinding 29.47sec win.

As they turned for home, race caller Daniel Hibberd came into his own shouting: “Aston Rupee’s coming, he’s coming, he’ll get up and win”.

Holder of Sandown Park’s 515m track record (28.79sec), Aston Rupee recorded his 19th win from 32 starts. It was his eighth win from his past nine starts and he’s six from six exiting box three.

He’s also won the G3 Bill Collins Speed Star (515m) and G3 Speed Star (525m) and was a G1 Adelaide Cup finalist and runnerup in the G3 Launching Pad. You couldn’t have scripted a better start to

BOX 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 RESERVES 9 10

RUNNER Aussie Secret Jepara Koblenz Aston Rupee Lala Kiwi Lakeview Walter Tiberia Bale Kinson Bale

ODDS $8 $15 $3 $2.50 $10 $10 $71 $15

Typhoon Sammy Jax Bale

$10 $15

the series when Koblenz ($1.30F) and Jepara ($11.30) dead-heated in Heat 1.

Koblenz, trained by David Geall, and Jepara, prepared by Angela Langton, couldn’t be separated in 29.43sec.

Dubbed “Mr Reliable”, G2 Cranbourne Cup winner Koblenz notched his eighth win from his past nine starts. And he’s now eight from 10 exiting box two.

Jepara was finalist in the G1 Silver Chief and Victorian National Sprint Championship.

Other heat winners were Kinson Bale (29.47sec), Aussie Secret (29.57sec) Tiberia Bale (29.64) and Typhoon Sammy (29.65sec), with the latter demoted to first reserve as a result of the dead-heat.

Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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STAR NEWS 35

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Thursday, 25 November, 2021

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