News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 16th December 2021

PAKENHAM OFFICER

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

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Christmas all wrapped up With Christmas Day less than two weeks away, now is the time to wrap up your Christmas shopping. This special 8- page wrap has loads of great gift ideas from local retailers.

Young Jessica from Pakenham got into the festive spirit at Little and Trivial Events in Kooweerup.

AKOONAH PARK MARKET WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 22ND 11:00AM-7:00PM • Locally made 'Christmas craft' stalls (decorations, gifts, cards etc.), plants, fruit/veg, and some takeaway food and coffee stalls.

• The market will be a last-minute opportunity to buy food and Christmas products before Christmas Day.

2 Cardinia st, Berwick Akoonah Park web: www.akoonahpark.com.au market enquiries: marketmanager@akoonahpark.com.au Follow us on Facebook and Instagram 12528824-AV51-21

FOCUS ON … CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP

Roll into Bunyip’s new look Railway Hotel The Railway Hotel Bunyip (formerly The Bottom Pub) has had a facelift and a name change back to where it all began as the Railway Hotel.

Raff and Justin are still your hosts and, along with new management and some fresh new faces in both the front and back of house, they continue to provide the fresh delicious meals they are famous for. Meals are available for dine in, takeaway and delivery.

The hotel is open seven days per week - bar only on Mondays, full menu for dinner Tuesday - Friday, lunch and dinner Saturday and Sunday along with speciality nights of Souva Tuesday, Parma Wednesday and Happy Hour with cheap beer and wine, and free bar snacks on Fridays from 4-6pm.

If you haven’t already seen their new

mascot, head on down and take a photo with the Bunyip Bundy Bear.

Raff and Justin would like to thank everyone who has continued to support them, especially during Covid, and they are very excited to add another new chapter to the hotel’s history.

“We hope to see you all again. To keep up to date, don’t forget to like and follow us on FB and Instagram,“ they said.

Railway Hotel, 14 Main Street, Bunyip, 5629 5202.

The team at the Railway Hotel - Donna, Raff, Justin, Shaun and Sam.

Offering coffee and hope

By Elle Cecil The Lime Box Cafe and Food Hub is a community food destination sponsored by local youth charity Hopeworks Community Solutions. Training young people in food service, catering, kitchen and food processing skills, they can also work towards formal industry credentials in preparation for entering the workforce.

Hopeworks Community Solutions opened its head office in 2016, has since trained over 600 young people and helped them to launch their careers. Following its opening in January

2021, the Lime Box Cafe has received strong support from locals in the region.

The cafe now offers premium barista coffee, gourmet loose leaf teas, fresh croissants, baked goods, cakes, slices and more, as well as running a providore stocked with local raw honey, seasonal and corporate gifts, and amazing hampers.

The gourmet gift hampers have been an astronomical success and are expected to be in extremely high demand over the lead up to the festive season.

The Lime Box Cafe and Food Hub is special in that it is a youth training organisation. All

profits are returned into the project each year, and the business strives to keep its prices as low as possible to that everyone in the community can be included.

“Our core passion is training young people to be equipped to enter the workplace with proven employability skills in areas like food service, cooking, catering and food processing, which are all in high demand,” says cafe manager Martin Spratt.

In addition to training young people and serving the community, the Lime Box also supports local farmers via the Cardinia Com-

munity Food Hub. Each Wednesday, the team collects freshly harvested local farm produce, and offers home delivery in the local area to customers who register to the online platform.

The Lime Box Cafe is located at 18 Golden Green Street, Pakenham. For more information, visit www.thelimeboxcafe.com.au.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday - 7am to 2pm. Trading will cease over Christmas, beginning on December 22, 2021 and ending on January 10, 2022. Saturday trading is also expected to recommence in 2022.

YOU CHOOSE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE! For more than 60 years, Dandenong Christmas Tree Farm has been delighting customers with that most precious of festive traditions: a real, live Christmas tree.

Customers are invited to visit the farm and take a wander amongst the rows of green until they find their perfect tree.

There is a tree for every family, in different heights to fit any house.

Staff will cut the tree and can net it for easy transportation for a small fee.

They’re easy to take care of too; just keep them watered and your tree will last the whole Christmas season.

47 years experience in growing Trees

Martin and Cher Spratt from The Lime Box Cafe and Food Hub.

Your Community Destination

You can come and choose your tree from:

336 Browns Rd, OFFICER

Table service, takeaway and catering.

Open 7 days a week

t Credi Cash, and Card s Eftpo es i facilit

Thursday, 16 December, 2021

12524913-AV49-21

OPEN

Our boutique providore offers a small selection of corporate gifts and specialty local produce.

www.dandenongchristmastreefarm.com.au |

Still providing the fresh delicious meals we are famous for!

Gluten free, dairy free and vegan.

1300 655 652 2W STAR NEWS

Our youth trainee team serve gourmet roasted coffee, specialty teas, cakes, slices, salads, pies and more.

(Mel Ref 213 C12)

Weekdays between 2pm-8pm Weekends 8pm-6pm

New Name New Look

Op e

breakfast and lun n for ch Monday to Friday

18 Golden Green St. Pakenham www.thelimeboxcafe.com.au Ph: 0466 839 944

Mon Bar only Tues-Fri Full Dinner Menu Sat-Sun Lunch and Dinner Check our Facebook for Specialty Nights Take away and delivery available.

14 Main Street Bunyip (Formally Bottom Pub.)

12526161-JW51-21

Stands available

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Magnificent trees 1- 3 m (4 to 10ft)

(03) 5629 5202 www.railwayhotelbunyip.com

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FOCUS ON … CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP

Shop local this Christmas We’re back out and about. If you’re not keen to travel too far, stick with the local centre that has friendly staff, and fabulous food on offer.

With delivery options from the foodies, to amazing customer service from all the stores, this is certainly the place to be for your Christmas supplies and meals when you can’t be bothered cooking.

Now we can venture into salons again, the ladies at Sugarcoat Nails & Beauty are wellequipped to help you feel fabulous for the

forthcoming party season.

From their delicious salads to their tasty chicken, Uncle Sam’s Charcoal Chicken is a firm favourite in the neighbourhood for a quick and healthy meal.

Cardinia Lakes Fish & Chippery has delicious burgers, along with crispy chips and tasty fish for a favourite takeaway option. You might even be brave enough to try their deepfried mars bar one day!

Pizza Fellas has a great range of pizzas and can be ordered online so they are ready for you when you pop in to pick up your dinner!

Wok to Go rounds out the takeaway options with tasty Asian dishes galore to tempt your tastebuds.

At Caremore Pharmacies, their focus on the patient ensures they provide the best possible advice on medications so customers can achieve better health. They are dedicated to their customer’s well-being and will help you

make the right choices about maintaining good health. Their gift range is outstanding as well, and you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for the father figure in your life.

Great breakfast and lunch options are on the menu at Urban Hype Cafe. Come and meet the friendly staff and grab something for lunch or morning tea. Their coffee is just divine.

Stay up to date by following the Centre on their Facebook page.

Akoonah Park Christmas market is returning A Christmas market is returning to Berwick’s Akoonah Park this year.

Visitors can stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables for Christmas meals, buy last minute presents, or catch up with friends and family.

There will be an array of locally made Christmas craft stalls including decorations, gifts and cards.

Those who get hungry after shopping won’t have to travel far for a bite to eat, with takeaway food and coffee stalls available at the park.

The market will be held from 11am to 7pm on Wednesday 22 December at 2 Cardinia St, Berwick.

Akoonah Park Manager Gayle Joyce encouraged local residents to take advantage of this last-minute opportunity to buy food and products before Christmas Day. “Following the very difficult year

we have all experienced with the various Covid-19 lockdowns, the Akoonah Park committee is keen to provide last minute Christmas shoppers an opportunity by introducing this Wednesday special Christmas market,” she said.

“Shop with your local market stallholders and avoid the hustle and bustle of the major shopping centres.

“Wishing shoppers and our stallholders a Merry Christmas.”

No market will run on Sunday 26 December.

Food and Christmas products will be available at the Akoonah Park market on Wednesday 22 December.

Sugarcoat Nails & Beauty

Take a break with us

140 Windermere Blvd, Pakenham

12523730-SG49-21

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FOCUS ON … CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP

Tidy up with Style

Sweet treats for Christmas

By Elle Cecil Men of Style offers a broad range of quality menswear and accessories - from casual wear to formal wear, as well as stylish accessories to match. Stocking summer and winter clothing all year round, Men of Style provide a fitting service so that customers can be confident in the sizing of their purchases.

Men of Style has been trading for over 15 years, and has been operating out of Pakenham for nearly five years. Customer orders are arranged directly from suppliers to ensure that customers get exactly what they need in the right size, and Men of Style can cater from sizes small right through to 5XL. Men of Style underwent an expansion during the most recent COVID lockdown, doubling in size, which has allowed the business to bring in a wider range of products and provide greater choice for customers.

Owner Charlie De Maio has been in the clothing and garment industry for over 35 years. He prides himself on giving good quality service and knowledgeable advice to all customers, and is driven by customer satisfaction above all else.

“We have a large customer base of loyal customers who have been shopping with us since we first opened,” Charlie says.

“When customers come into my store not knowing exactly what they’re after, I like giving them some advice and offering a range of

Displayed in a festive bowl on the Christmas table, or boxed up as a gift ... these Christmas rum balls and rosewater jellies are sweet treats that will be appreciated either way.

Christmas rum balls (with a healthy twist!)

Charlie De Maio at Men of Style will have you dressed to the nines for these coming holidays. products that hopefully suit their needs. Having these customers ring me a few days later, happy with their purchase and thanking me for my help and advice, is what makes me love this job.”

“I think it’s an important part of building a lot of trust with everyone that comes through my door, and I get a lot of satisfaction when people return to let me know that their last

purchase was a great success,” he says.

Men of Style is located at 138 Main Street, Pakenham. For more information, phone (03) 5940 1103.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday - 9am to 5pm. Saturday - 9am to 3pm. Throughout December, Men of Style will be open on Sundays from 10am to 3pm until Christmas.

Jump into Lazy Frog for unique gift ideas

Ingredients ½ cup almonds in their skins 2 tbs carob or cocoa 1 tbs vanilla essence 2 tbs rum (optional) 1 cup dates 1 cup sultanas 2 cups rolled oats ½ cup dessicated coconut

· · · · · · · ·

Method 1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor until mixture sticks together in a sticky ball.

2. Remove from processor and mould into balls with your hands.

3. Roll in the coconut .Store in refrigerator.

4. You can vary the taste and texture by substituting half a cup of the rolled oats for half a cup of crushed gingernut biscuits.

Note: You will need a food processor with a bit of grunt for this recipe.

Jump in Lazy Frog Gifts in Pakenham where Molly and Sharlene are ready to help you tick off your Christmas list with their range of unique gifts. 259972

MEN OF STYLE

Now Open or Shop online

Quality Menswear

Merry Christmas Safe and Happy New Year

OPEN SUNDAYS until CHRISTMAS 10am – 3pm

www.lazyfroggifts.com.au | 109 Main Street Pakenham | 5941 2225 4W STAR NEWS

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138 Main St, Pakenham 5940 1103

12528132-JW51-21

12527476-DL51-21

SPOIL HIM THIS CHRISTMAS WITH QUALITY MENSWEAR

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FOCUS ON … CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP

Free Christmas craft This Christmas Pakenham Central Marketplace are running free Christmas craft activities for kids.

The activities will be running on the two weekends in the lead up to Christmas, and all week before the big day.

If you are looking for a way to keep the children or grandchildren entertained this Christmas while doing your shopping, then come along and get them involved.

There will be a staff member on site to guide children through the activities.

With seven different Christmas themed crafts to choose from, children will be delighted with these kid-approved activities.

Whether it be the Christmas Grinch slime making, the snow globe creations or slap band designing, tis the season for fun!

These activities will only be available while stocks last, but there is no need to book, just pop down to Pakenham Central Marketplace with the kids.

Parents/Guardians must remain in the area while children are participating in this activity: Where: 50-54 John St, Pakenham Saturday 18 December, Christmas Keychains Sunday 19 December, Reindeer Scratch Art Monday 20 December, Merry Christmas Frames Tuesday 21 December, Christmas Slapbands Wednesday 22 December, Christmas Grinch Slime Thursday 23 December, Pom Pom Ornaments Friday 24 December, Reindeer Scratch Art While at Pakenham Central Marketplace the kids might want to check out the toys in

Free Christmas craft activities for kids at Pakenham Central Marketplace.

BigW but we highly recommend that parents take a break and enjoy a coffee and one of our many cafes.

As with everything these days, the activities will be run in a CovidSafe manner, with check in and number limits. No bookings

are required.

Visit www.pakenhamcentralmarketplace. com.au to find out more.

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FOCUS ON … CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP

Managing festive stress

By Melissa Grant Christmas can be stressful enough at the best of times.

In the midst of a global pandemic, the festive season can feel pretty overwhelming for families.

Perhaps you are daunted about the prospect of catching up with family and friends after spending much of the year in isolation.

You may also be rushing around to find gifts as lockdown made it hard to start Christmas shopping early.

Finances could be tight, while travel difficulties may mean you are separated from family members.

If you’ve recently lost a loved one, then the festive season can amplify feelings of grief and loneliness.

If there are tensions within your family, the prospect of catching up for Christmas lunch can leave you feeling pretty anxious.

So while the festive season comes with expectations of fun family get-togethers, the reality can be entirely different.

It’s important to be aware of signs of stress.

This includes being irritable, short-tempered, experiencing headaches or an upset stomach, difficulties sleeping, tension in your jaw or shoulders, lack of concentration, and fatigue or extreme tiredness.

Here are some great tips from Relationships Australia Victoria to help manage stress through the holiday season: Organise yourself: Schedule time for exercise, relaxation, cooking and eating meals, and plan to complete certain tasks on certain days. These routines can be reassuring as they make life more predictable. Also plan time for the additional things you need to do, such as gift shopping and wrapping, and catch-ups.

Have reasonable expectations: Re-evaluate what you can reasonably get done before the holiday. This might mean deferring a catch-up, minimising the amount of cooking you might do, or asking family members for help.

Give yourself positive feedback: Tell yourself that you can cope, and that you will complete the things you need to do to the best of your ability. Avoid negative self-talk, including statements such as ‘I can’t do this’, or ‘I can’t cope with this.’

Connect with people you care about: Spend time with friends and loved ones who will listen to and understand you. Share your thoughts and feelings with people who care about you and may be able to support you. If you’re physically distanced from loved ones, try reaching out over the phone or online, or joining a social group in your local area.

Take time out: Regularly do something that is just for you. This might involve going for a short walk, listening to music, having a coffee at a cafe or at home, watching TV, reading, napping, talking to a friend, having a special treat or gardening.

Practice relaxation: Try meditation, pro-

gressive muscle relaxation or yoga to take your mind off your stress.

Exercise: Exercise can have a positive effect on your emotional health and wellbeing. Try to exercise for at least 15 to 30 minutes, three days per week. If you’re finding this difficult, aim for a daily 10-minute walk.

Eat a balanced diet: It can be tempting to indulge during the holidays. Try to maintain a healthy diet by including lots of fruits and vegetables. Also try to minimise foods high in fat and sugar, and avoid depending on cigarettes, alcohol or drugs to cope with stress.

Rest: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

Rest your eyes as well as your mind, particularly when spending time looking at computer screens or smart devices.

If you need support, talk to your GP or seek support from a counsellor. You can find a counsellor by visiting www.rav.org.au/counselling For crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. You can also find mental health support services open over the holiday period by visiting www.rav.org.au/resources/mentalhealth-services

Join us for our Christmas Church Services 7pm

Christmas Eve Nativity story with Carol Singing

9.30 am Christmas Day with Holy communion CHRISTMAS EVE: 5PM - CHILDREN AND FAMILIES SERVICE & 11PM TRADITIONAL CAROLS AND COMMUNION

We worship in the Senior Building of Lakeside College on the corner of Portobello Road and Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham

CHRISTMAS DAY - 9:30AM SUN DEC 26 CLOSED

pakenhamlakesidechurch.org.au Contact Pastor Eugene Minge

0414 833 692

www.pakenhamanglican.org.au 12528386-JW51-21

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FOCUS ON … CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP

Add that personal touch Household items or trinkets that mean something to your family could make for some spectacular Christmas decorations this season.

Getting into the festive spirit need not be very expensive or labour intensive with a few ideas to help you create your own decorations to wow your guests.

Give your guests a dramatic welcome: A pair of inexpensive plastic urns from the garden centre instantly dress up a front doorway.

Place a tall foam cone in each urn, anchor it with sand, then use florist sticks and wire to at-

tach greenery and Christmas balls.

Make an easy table topper centrepiece by buying a garland of greenery available at garden centres to run down the length of your table.

Send your kids out to collect pine cones, and use them as rustic toppers. You can also buy pinecones at garden or craft stores.

Another festive idea could be to load a simple glass jar or bowl with multiples of the same fruit, nut, or monochromatic ornament.

Trifle bowls filled with red apples and green baby artichokes - the colours of Christ-

mas and walnuts look especially festive. Or you could try bowls of lemons and limes as an alternative.

For a subtle outdoor decoration, gather pine cones of various sizes and arrange them in a window box or in pots on your porch, sprinkling the tiniest ones on top. The weatherproof display should last until next season.

Instead of the traditional evergreen, try a homemade wreath of citrus fruits. Start with a circular piece of florist’s foam, then use wooden florist’s picks to secure large items, such as oranges, first.

Continue with smaller fruit -persimmons, clementines, limes and tie with a thick velvet ribbon.

Personalised place setting adds a very nice touch to Christmas lunch. Serve holiday dinner buffet style and wrap each dish in a sheet of parchment paper and tie with a length of ribbon before stacking it. Guests will be rewarded with a pretty presentation not to mention a little gift-opening practice.

Get creative this Christmas and make the most of the material around you to make your house sparkle for the festive season.

JESUS IS THE ANSWER Are you sick, depressed, lonely, abused, afraid?

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Come & Visit us & be AMAZED Don’t miss this opportunity to change your life! pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

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St Clare’s Catholic Primary School, Officer Our Faith leads to Wisdom and Courage.

’s has developed providing a quality schooling experience, developing

Our faith leads to wisdom and courage.

St Clare’s and is embedded in the ethos of the school,

12528482-JW51-21

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

Helen Staindl School Principal

Enrolment Enquiries email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au 8W STAR NEWS

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St Clare’s Primary School Officer Officer 3809 Phone 03 5940 6777 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

PAKENHAM OFFICER

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Getting a headstart in hospitality

Project Pony helps kids

Lions’ den divided

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SPORT

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Ann calls time on kinder career

MP is ‘grateful’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Labor MP Luke Donnellan says he will possibly stay in Parliament for the remainder of his term after being sensationally ousted from his Narre Warren North seat ahead of the 2022 state election.

“I’ve been very fortunate and lucky to represent the community for 20 years. And I’ve had the support of the community for 20 years.

“The lasting memory I’ll always have is the people and the care they showed one another.

“The party has made its decision. I don’t necessarily agree with the decision – but that’s life.”

As part of a clean out of seven Labor MPs, Mr Donnellan was defeated by Belinda Wilson in a preselection contest decided by the ALP national executive on 13 December.

Former factional allies and Ministers Marlene Kairouz and Robin Scott were also disendorsed.

Local branch members were excluded from the vote due to a branch-stacking scandal currently being investigated by IBAC. The same inquiry exposed Mr Donnellan’s role in a Labor branch-stacking operation in the South East – which led to him resigning as Child Protection, Disability, Ageing and Carers Minister in October.

He and Moderate Labor factional allies Adem Somyurek and federal Holt MP Anthony Byrne admitted paying for other people’s party memberships and membership renewals, contrary to party rules.

An MP for the seat since 2002, Mr Donnellan spent the past seven years on the Government’s front bench.

He had recently expressed confidence he’d hang on to the seat again.

“Maybe my assessment was incorrect,“ he told Star News after his shock disendorsement.

Bubbles of fun The graduating kinder class of Cardinia Lakes Early Learning Centre celebrated the occasion with some good, clean fun and a bubble ‘snow’ machine.

The little ones marked the end of a challenging year of lockdowns and learning at home with a graduation ceremony as they marked their transition to primary school life.

Read more on page 12

The graduating kinder kids had fun in the bubble snow.

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NEWS

Skills needed for growth

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Welders, engineers, electronics technicians are among a dire skills shortage, a manufacturing body has told a Senate inquiry.

South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) told the inquiry on 9 December of creating its own 150-hour welding microcourse to address the shortage.

“We never wanted to be a registered training organisation, but what’s happened is that there has been a shortage of welders for years and, coming out of Covid, there’s become a dire need amongst our manufacturers,“ chief executive Vonda Fenwick said.

“They have now got more orders than they can cope with and the limiting factor is skilled workers.”

Ms Fenwick said welders were needed across many manufacturing sectors, including high-tech.

Support was needed to train more people with “engineering smarts”, researchers, electronics technicians and technicians to run process control equipment for advanced manufacturing.

SEMMA represents 200 manufacturers that employ 16,000 people and create $3 billion of GDP. President Peter Angelico said manufacturing was evolving, not dying.

It was specialising in “low volume, high compliance, high quality” products, exporting more now than 20 years ago, and growing in the defence and rail sectors.

“We don’t see our competition as being Joe down the road. Our competition is overseas.

“You can buy cheap rubbish from overseas, but who’s made it? How many people have died making it? Who knows.”

During the Covid pandemic, companies who couldn’t get products such as sheet metal

SEMMA chief executive Vonda Fenwick and president Peter D’Angelico at a SEMMA Christmas event on 7 December. 261460 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS from overseas were turning to local manufacturers, Ms Fenwick said.

“Manufacturers have said to us … ‘we’ve come in 30 per cent cheaper than the product from China.’”

Energy prices were also a constraint. Ms Fenwick said an insulation company’s energy costs soared from $4 million to $11 million in three years, leading to the loss of 50 jobs and closure of a Sydney plant.

“They don’t have any competition in Australia, but there is increasingly competition

from overseas, and there’s a new plant being set up, I believe, in a low-cost area in Asia.”

A large Dandenong South manufacturer cut 50 jobs due to its gas bill jumping from $500,000 to $1.2 million, Mr Angelico said.

“It’s one of the things that do keep a lot of our members awake at night.”

SEMMA also submitted for the appointment of a federal manufacturing minister and the need for a national local content policy.

“Local content is very important,” Mr Angelico said.

“Governments are still the biggest procurer of goods and services around the country at all levels.”

Manufacturers had to be given the opportunity to compete.

He cited the case of 30,000 tonnes of steel for a state tunnels project being sourced offshore, and “no one knew about it”.

“If we’re not good enough because of price, service delivery and the quality of those things; we can get better at that. But we’re not even hearing about the opportunities.”

Grassfires move so quickly, it’s impossible to outrun them.

This summer, significant pasture growth in paddocks and roadsides means that fast-moving grassfires will be a serious risk across Victoria. Rural grassfires can be just as dangerous as bushfires, and can actually spread even faster, travelling at speeds of up to 25km/h. If you live close to open paddocks or grasslands, you could be at risk and need to be prepared. On high-risk Fire Danger Rated days, the safest option is to leave early.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to vic.gov.au/knowfire

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12520385-SG51-21

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The surprise afternoon tea was organised by Ann’s current co-workers. 259402

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Ann with past and present kindergarten children. 259402

Ann thanked for 26 years

By Shelby Brooks A Pakenham kindergarten teacher has said goodbye to the classroom after 26 years at Andrew’s Community Kindergarten.

Ann Wynne, of Maryknoll, has taught thousands of students over the years so in return for her dedication and passion, she was surprised with an afternoon tea visited by past children, families and staff on Friday 3 December.

“It was an amazing surprise. I wasn’t at all prepared for that, but it was a great day seeing all my old friends, staff and families,“ Ann said.

Ann began with the kindergarten in 1995 after teaching at Lang Lang Preschool and working as a primary school teacher at Catani and Drouin South.

“I always felt early years learning was very important,“ she said.

“I had always taught prep prior to that which is close to early years.“ 26 years later, Ann never thought she would stay so long at one centre.

“I’m glad I have though. It seems a long time but it changes every year with all the new families and children,“ Ann said.

“I put my passion into this place, I could see there was a need for consistency.

“And it’s been good because you can see your planning come to fruition.“ Ann said early learning education was all about play.

“Play is the crucial factor,“ she said.

“With open ended play, you can take children, no matter what level of their skills, to their learning potential.

Ann Wynne is retiring after 26 years at Andrew’s Community Kindergarten in Pakenham. 259402

Ann Wynne with former kinder kids Isabella, Aiden and Olivia. 259402 “Indoor play and outdoor play are equally as important in a child’s learning.“ Ann wanted to acknowledge her co-workers and past families from over the years for their help in her teaching journey.

“I had wonderful staff to work with and in the early days we were committee-managed

and I always had a good relationship with the committee,“ she said.

“I would just like to thank my past families for giving me the privilege of being part of their children’s learning journey,“ she said.

“Leaving your children with someone else is a big step in a family’s life, especially for par-

ents of children with special needs, so I want to thank them for entrusting their children in my and my staff’s care.“ Ann will be returning for casual relief work but plans to enjoy her retirement caravaning and pursuing new hobbies and community work.

Dumped MP Donnellan is ‘grateful’ From page 1 “I’ve been there for 20 years so I can’t complain. Much of my life has been spent serving the community of Narre Warren North and I’m terribly proud and privileged.

“Ninety-nine per cent of the time, it has been incredibly enjoyable. I’ve been able to watch the area grow and pursue my interests along the way.

“I certainly did not expect to have that opportunity for 20 years.”

His personal highlights were the “marvellous people I’ve met” in government and Narre Warren North, such as Doveton Special Soccer School head Juan Carlos Loyola.

He thanked his staff and family for their

“great support“ over two decades.

As a Minister, he was proud of his reforms in child protection, early intervention and child support.

He also nominated the “enormous amount of infrastructure” initiated as Roads and Ports Minister from 2014-‘18.

Mr Donnellan wouldn’t be drawn on how many other Labor MPs would be guilty of the same party breaches.

“I’m not Robinson Crusoe but that’s life.

“I didn’t think it was appropriate - as I indicated at the time - to be Minister if I breached the rules.

“I’ll leave it to others to make their own decisions.”

Over the next 12 months until the election, Mr Donnellan said he’d “keep doing the work I’ve done” as a Narre Warren North back-bencher.

“I plan to continue on until November (2022) - well, as certain as I can be at this stage.

“I don’t know where I’ll go next. I’ve got interests in transport, possibly one of those areas.

“I’ve got ample time to think about it.”

Disendorsed MP Luke Donnellan says he’s grateful for the opportunity to represent Narre Warren North for the past 20 years.

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 3

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with wildlife shelter founder Kody Davidson

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I was a national swimmer and ranked 22nd in Australia for under 15’s.

What are you most passionate about?

Australian wildlife and animal welfare/nutrition.

What do you love about being the owner of a shelter?

I love the variety of animals I get to assist, but also the opportunity to see them grow and prosper; but the best bit, returning them to their natural habitats!

What is your experience in the industry?

I have worked with animals my entire life with my grandparents’ farm, to my own menagerie at home prior to my tertiary education. My professional experience, I have had the opportunity to volunteer at sanctuaries in Africa, Asia and wildlife shelters throughout Victoria specialising in various species, whilst also working for some of Victoria’s (maybe even Australia’s) leading animal organisations.

What would your last meal be?

My homemade spaghetti bolognese with lots of garlic bread.

What is your most memorable moment?

Achieving my goals in really high tier organisations, where there were thousands of applicants, and only a handful gained employment.

What was your favourite subject in school?

Biology.

What event past or present would you like to witness?

The reintroduction of the eastern barred bandicoot to the wild (basically saved from extinction).

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

Lady Diana, David Attenborough and Marsha P. Johnson.

THREE … ways to get festive this Chrsitmas

1

2 Cranbourne’s Chordata and Ko wildlife shelter founder Kody Davidson.

What are you currently listening to, watching or reading?

Currently listening to Mariah Carey’s first albums and reading her memoir The Meaning of Mariah Carey. Currently re-watching The Crown.

How would you describe your fashion sense?

Comfortably carefree eleganza with a hint of flare on a Saturday night.

Have you had a pet that has made an impact on your life?

My beautiful dog Taj, a Maltese x Pomeranian who was the most kind and gentle soul I have ever met, RIP.

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

Probably my signature burrito bowl, but if all else fails, can’t go wrong with Vegemite on toast.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

As an ex-international flight attendant, there’s not many places I haven’t been, but I would like to do some of Europe.

What were you like as a kid?

Terrible. Sorry mum. Haha!

What is your favourite colour and why?

I honestly don’t have a favourite colour, but my current aesthetic is greys and pastels.

Do you consider yourself an extrovert or an introvert?

I would say I’m extrovertly introverted.

3

Make a gingerbread house Aside from spending time with family, food is a major reason why Christmas is so enjoyable. Making a gingerbread house with your family will not only impress your visitors, but also your taste buds.

Watch your favourite Christmas film From Love Actually, to Elf, to even the debatable Christmas movie Die Hard - now is the best time to give in to the guilty pleasure of watching a corny Christmas flick.

There’s plenty to choose from with new Christmas movies being released every year.

Christmas light displays Jumping in your car and going Christmas light hunting is fun for kids and the kids at heart. More often than not, home owners who have gone to the effort to put up a display are happy to have a chat with their visitors.

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel, and removing 85 dangerous and congested level crossings.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines 8.30 to last train each night, 14 to 15 Dec

Flinders Street to Oakleigh

First train to 8.30pm, 15 Dec, 16 to 23 Dec

Flinders Street to Caulfield

9pm 11 Jan to last train 3 Feb

Westall to Cranbourne and Pakenham

Until 9pm 4 Feb

Dandenong to Cranbourne

9pm 4 Feb to last train 6 Feb

Caulfield to Cranbourne

7 to 8 Feb

Caulfield to Westall

Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes Until late 2021

Clyde Road, Berwick

Until early 2022 Lane closed southbound between Reserve Street and Enterprise Avenue Lane closed northbound between Sir Gustav Nossal Boulevard and Jane Street

Princes Freeway, Berwick

In Dec

Rough surface and speed restrictions between Princes Highway and Clyde Road

Princes Freeway, Officer

At night, Dec

Freeway closed between Beaconsfield Interchange and Cardinia Road

Monash Freeway

In Dec

Overnight freeway closures, daytime lane and ramp closures between Warrigal Road and Eastlink

Hallam North Road and Heatherton Road, Endeavour Hills

In Jan

Intersection closed

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Princes and South Gippsland Highways, Dandenong South

4 STAR NEWS

Road or lanes closed

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

1442

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

A render of what the new facilities on Tivendale Road will look like once finished.

Officer will be home to a new aged care facility, run by the team at Signature Care (pictured here with Gembrook MP Brad Battin on a recent tour). 261137

Mr Battin and the Signature Care team took a tour through the new aged care home, set to open in August 2022. 261137

First look at care facility

By Gabriella Payne In the heart of Officer, just off Tivendale Road, construction crews are busy at work on a new aged care facility.

Set to open in August 2022, the Cardinia Community Aged Care home will be the first of its kind in the suburb and a welcome addition to the growing area.

Gembrook MP Brad Battin was taken on a tour of the new facilities by the Signature Care team recently, to get a sneak peek of what’s in store - and there was plenty to see!

Set on a large parcel of land, the new home will feature 189 single rooms (all with private ensuites) across two levels, most of which will look out at the surrounding gardens and

courtyards, providing plenty of light and airy spaces for residents to enjoy.

With a hairdressing studio, lawn bowls green, billiard room, piano lounge and a playground for visiting grandchildren - there seems to have been no stone left unturned in the design of these new facilities.

On top of that, a casual cafe area will be situated at the front of the building and open to members of the public as well as residents - a popular idea that’s gone down a hit at Signature Care’s Langwarrin establishment.

Martin Jones, Signature Care’s general manager of client services, said the Cardinia Community Aged Care home would provide round the clock care to residents, while trying its best to cater to everyone’s individual needs.

“We’re planning to open in August next year - provided all goes well and we have no more lockdowns, touch wood!“ Mr Jones said.

“Care will be provided 24/7 by a team of dedicated registered nurses and qualified care staff.

“Residents will also be supported by a lifestyle team that will be focused on ensuring everyone is engaged in a range of activities and programs that are adapted based on the residents’ needs and wishes,“ he said.

It’s estimated that once operating, some 240 staff will be working at the home - creating more jobs in the local area.

Mr Jones said that with no aged care home currently operating in Officer (and only a few nearby in Pakenham), there was certainly a de-

mand for these facilities in the booming area.

“There is no aged care home in Beaconsfield or Officer, only a couple in Pakenham and that’s it,“ he said.

“So there’s a demand from the ageing population, but more importantly, when people want to move [for example] their mum and dad in somewhere because they need aged care, you want them close to you, so that you can look after them.“ Mr Jones said the Cardinia Community Aged Care home was taking expressions of interest, but rooms would not be available until some time mid next year.

For more information on the new facilities, head to signaturecare.com.au/our-homes/ cardinia

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

LENSCAPE

Casey businesses are invited to support the TAC L2P driving mentor program.

Rewarding learner help The TAC L2P Program is looking for businesses to get involved in a program designed to promote safe driving in the City of Casey.

Learning to drive is an exciting opportunity for most young people, but some learner drivers are unable to build up their experience and confidence behind the wheel because they don’t have access to a car or a suitable person to assist them. Casey City Council has formed a group of volunteers who mentor young people in this situation to help them reach their required driving hours.

The TAC L2P Program is looking to partner with local businesses who want to reward and recognise the contribution of L2P mentors.

The program is initiating a rewards’ card for volunteer mentors with product and service discounts for local businesses.

The rewards’ cards would drive new business to organisations through the promotion of the initiative and products and services to approximately 59 programs covering more than 70 of the state’s 79 local government areas.

Business owners who are interested can phone Road Safety Victoria partnerships officer L2P (Roads) Luke Donovan on 0418 351 739 or email luke.donovan@roads.vic.gov.au

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Thumbs down!

Thumbs down!

To storm damaged trees still yet to be attended to.

To all of the overgrown parks, reserves, nature strips and roundabouts in the City of Casey.

To everyone supporting small businesses for their festive cheer.

made himself available.

Our group has been able to provide some material assistance to six of the detainees who were released in late August into Community Detention in Casey.

These are young men who should be in the prime of their lives but have been seriously damaged by the policies that our government has inflicted on them for eight years, keeping them locked up like criminals.

They came seeking safety and welcome from our wealthy country.

Why do we not honour the words of our own National Anthem, “for those who’ve come across the seas, we’ve boundless plains to share”?

We believe Australia can and must do much better in its treatment of refugees and asylum seekers.

Anyone wanting to donate to our cause or join our activities can find us on Facebook.

Sincerely, Margaret Edwards on behalf of Casey Cardinia for Refugees

SOCIALLY SPEAKING

Thumbs down!

Variety Livvi’s Place at Edgebrook in Clyde has won 2021 Park of the Year in Parks and Leisure Australia’s Awards of Excellence.

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

To the delivery people who don’t look up the right address when delivering.

Matt Clunes Looks like we got a new one to check out.

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Last Saturday Casey Cardinia for Refugees held their 99th vigil in the Berwick township.

Our first was held on 11 May, 2018.

We spend an hour each Saturday morning with banners and messages supporting refugees to try and educate the public and to continue to show our support for asylum seekers and refugees here in Australia.

When we commenced our vigils nearly four years ago we received 100 to 200 positive responses from the passing public.

Last week we received nearly 500!

We are heartened by the increase in support for the messages we display.

After our vigil we write a letter to our local Federal MP Jason Wood who is Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multi Cultural Affairs.

We inform him of latest developments with refugees, for example, the situation at Park Hotel Carlton where 37 men have been held for more than two years.

They were transferred here for medical attention from Manus Island and Nauru under the (since repealed) Medevac legislation.

This week, we provided Mr Wood with a copy of a recently released report by the Public Interest Advocacy Centre entitled “Health Care Denied: Medevac and the long wait for essential treatment in Australian Immigration Detention”.

It is damning reading!

The people who were brought here for urgent medical help for their physical and mental health have been left languishing in hotel rooms where they have no access to fresh air or sunshine and have been subjected to the dangers of Covid-19 spreading. And it did!

Nearly half of the men at Park Hotel Carlton contracted Covid-19.

They have not received the medical attention they need and in fact this report states that their health has deteriorated significantly since being transferred here.

Each week we respectfully ask Mr Wood to meet with us, yet in all these years he has not

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Thursday, 16 December, 2021

Thumbs up!

To Cranbourne Uniting Church for their wonderful food hamper support during these hard times.

To the beautiful hot weather.

Kylie Richardson So many good parks popping up in Narre and Clyde now.

Thumbs down!

Thumbs down!

To the state of our roads.

To Parks Victoria and Better Boating Victoria for ignoring requests to restore the Warneet jetties.

Ashleigh Wills Froggy park for the win! This is where I’m having my birthday Friday! pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Head start in hospitality With a long summer stretching ahead and the world opening back up, local students have readied themselves to chase their first job.

ECG College Pakenham students participated in an innovative Hospitality Job Camp program, designed to build employment skills quickly.

Sue Geals, the executive principal of the college, said the hands-on program was all about delivering the skills sets employers were looking for.

“Our students were able to complete training in first aid, safe food handling, espresso coffee making and, for our older students, responsible service of alcohol,” Ms Geals said.

“These skills help our students to build their resumes and hit the ground running on the job.”

For ECG College, an alternative senior secondary school focused on building skills for life, learning and work, the Hospitality Job Camp was a perfect addition to the curriculum.

“A lot of our students come to us because they need extra support to thrive,” Ms Geals said.

“They may prefer a smaller classroom setting, self-paced learning or hands-on activities that are a better fit, particularly for our students with anxiety, autism or ADHD. “Being able to offer this training in their environment really made it possible for our students to succeed.

“We are very grateful to the Cardinia Shire Council Community Wellbeing Support Grant for funding the program and making it possible.”

According to Ms Geals, the program was initially delayed due to Covid impacts, but in the end, the timing was ideal.

“It feels great to be able to set our students up ahead of the holiday season and with businesses opening their doors to trade again, they

Students completed training in first aid, safe food handling, espresso coffee making and responsible service of alcohol (older students only). finally have a chance to take that first leap into work.”

The program was so successful that it will be offered again in 2022.

The hands-on program was all about helping students get job ready for the hospitality industry.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 7

NEWS

Cardinia makes strides towards reconciliation

By Gabriella Payne The Cardinia Shire Council is taking further steps to recognise and embrace local Indigenous groups and their culture after the Reconciliation Action Plan 2021-23 was endorsed at Monday night’s council meeting.

The plan outlines the council’s commitment to reconciliation and forging stronger connections with Traditional Owner groups, Aboriginal-controlled organisations and the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

The Cardinia Shire Mayor, Jeff Springfield, said the plan had been developed through consultation with the local Indigenous community and was a vital step forward for the shire.

“Through discussions with the Traditional Owner groups in our shire and local community members, a number of key themes emerged – cultural recognition, connection and relationship building,” Cr Springfield explained.

“Our Reconciliation Action Plan sets out the council’s commitment to reconciliation through action.

“From developing partnerships with local and regional organisations to supporting increased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment to boosting youth leadership and representation, we’ve looked right across the council to see how we can better recognise, respect, listen and connect with the Traditional Owners and our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community,” he said.

At the Monday night meeting, various councillors shared their support for the plan before it was unanimously endorsed.

IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich at the Operation Watts hearings in October.

Reform call

By Cam Lucadou-Wells IBAC and the Victorian Ombudsman have written to Victorian political party leaders for recommendations on how to stop MPs’ alleged misuse of public funds.

The watchdog authorities jointly stated they will recommend law reforms to strengthen Parliamentary accountability, particularly for breaches of MPs’ code of conduct.

At the recent IBAC Operation Watts hearings, it was alleged some Victorian MPs were directing taxpayer-funded electorate officers and ministerial advisers to do party political work during work hours.

Among the people of interest were SouthEast based MPs and former ALP factional allies Adem Somyurek and Anthony Byrne.

State Ombudsman Deborah Glass said despite a package of reforms by Parliament after her Red Shirts report in 2018, the existing laws

and rules were “not robust enough” to prevent the misuse of public resources.

The inquiry heard that Parliament deliberately omitted reference to “party specific” work during the reforms.

IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich said “much of the evidence heard at the public hearings spoke about how taxpayer funds were directed to ministerial and electorate office staff to perform party political during work hours, rather than the job they were hired to do in performing ministerial or electorate work”.

IBAC and the VO are also “seeking clarity” on the MPs’ appointment process of electoral and ministerial staff, and whether the staffing allocation and electorate office budgets should be reduced.

The Operation Watts joint investigation by IBAC and the VO is ongoing, though public hearings have ended.

The report is expected to be released in 2022.

Reconciliation Week smoking ceremony held at the Civic Centre with Alex Kerr.

Picture: SUPPLIED Some of the actions outlined in the Reconciliation Action Plan include engaging and working with Traditional Owner groups to identify cultural heritage sites and assets to create a database of local information; recognising locations of cultural significance within Cardinia Shire’s parks and reserves; supporting the protection and recognition of the local Woiwurrung and Bunurong traditional languages for the naming and renaming of various Cardinia Shire features and localities; and increasing local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander public arts and culture events.

For more detail on Cardinia Shire Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan, visit the council’s website at cardinia.vic.gov.au/reconciliation

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Stirring trouble

By Mitchell Clarke

Stirring trouble

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

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

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

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

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

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

The reaction from her neighbours was similar.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

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NEWS

Jo Boulter chats with Sharon Patterson, Youth Resource Officer Cardinia. 261467

Sergeant Fiona Tolmie chats to some locals.

261467

Senior Constable Mark Haslam chats with Samantha and her daughter Isabella. 261467

Coffee with cops in shop Police officers from Pakenham made time to catch up with the community at a coffee with a cop event Tuesday 14 December.

Community members were able to bring up concerns with the officers at Coffee Grind, Pakenham Central Marketplace.

“Thank you to the members and the public for the catch up at the Coffee Grind Cafe at Pakenham Central Marketplace,” a police

spokesperson said.

“In a relaxed atmosphere the public were able to discuss topics of the day and get to know the local police and local issues.

“Crime Prevention was high on the list especially with the holiday season upon us.

Keep an eye in this space for the next one in the new year.

“All the police at Pakenham would like to wish members of the community a safe and joyful Christmas.”

12524806-DL51-21

By Shelby Brooks

Constable Chloe Terlaak hands Bernadette and Niamh free coffee vouchers. 261467 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 16 December, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

Biolink Plan is endorsed Cardinia Shire Council has formally endorsed a Biolink Plan to increase vegetation for wildlife habitat, improve waterways and help set environmental priorities for the shire.

A biolink is a wildlife corridor that connects pockets of native vegetation so wildlife can move easily between areas.

In a bid to help protect and preserve our native flora and fauna, the council used the latest technology in wildlife species computer modelling and aerial vegetation mapping to identify key wildlife areas and potential biolinks across the Cardinia Shire before opening the draft plan up to community consultation.

Residents were asked how they could support native plant and animal habitats on their own property and identify areas within the shire with significant biodiversity value, or areas they thought should be reprioritised.

Cardinia Mayor Jeff Springfield said the adopted Biolink Plan identified where new wildlife corridors were needed most.

“Cardinia Shire is one of the largest local

The Cardinia Shire Council has formally endorsed a Biolink Plan to help protect and preserve our native species.

Picture: SUPPLIED, GUMBUYA WORLD government areas in metropolitan Melbourne and we’re also a growth area.

“This change in land use leads to habitat loss and fragmentation which affects animal and plant populations and hampers pollina-

tion and the movement of animals,” Cr Springfield explained.

“This means that biodiversity can be limited to small pockets of habitat which are vulnerable to environmental threats such as

pests, diseases, fire and climate change, making it difficult to support viable, long-term populations.

“The creation of new biolinks enables us to connect these areas of fragmented vegetation across the shire to encourage the movement of wildlife and pollination, increase the genetic diversity in breeding populations, and ensure the long-term viability of our native plants and animals,” he said.

The plan makes reference to 15 indicator species including the greater glider, the eastern yellow robin and the southern brown bandicoot for future council and community monitoring programs.

The Biolink Plan provides a long-term strategic direction for the council’s environmental works over the next 10 years ensuring that council programs and resources can be better targeted to the most important conservation areas.

For more information on the Biolink Plan, visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/environment

Hopes rise for new Pakenham multicultural hub

By Gabriella Payne Pakenham is hopefully one step closer towards getting a new multicultural hub, after the Cardinia Shire Council endorsed a feasibility study into the idea at Monday night’s council meeting.

At the meeting on Monday 13 December, Councillor Jack Kowarzik moved the motion for the Multicultural Hub Feasibility Study, which would help council advocate for more federal funding to make the new centre a reality.

Cr Kowarzik spoke of the huge benefits a

hub like this would have for the community, stating that it would be an “intercultural hub“ with a “focus on supporting the needs of the Cardinia Shire’s CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) communities“, but would also “be open and accessible to all“ community members.

The hub would be situated in the heart of Pakenham and become a new home for the already established Living & Learning Centre, but with costs estimated to be about $32 million for the build. Federal funding would be imperative for the plans to go ahead.

Cr Kowarzik said that the Cardinia Shire Council would “advocate for $25 million of federal government funding to build this“ new hub - a large sum, but one that would be incredibly worthwhile for the community.

Councillor Collin Ross seconded the motion, and said that it was a fantastic idea and great to see the council planning for the future.

“It’s really good that we are planning ahead in this area,“ Cr Ross said at the meeting.

“Being such a huge project, we need support from the federal and state govern-

ments... [but] this is another area of real importance within the Cardinia Shire as we change into the future.

“Without a feasibility study, the likelihood of getting grant money is really, really small,“ he said.

“So if we can join the dots... and the more work we do on our end, the more likelihood it’ll be a shovel ready project.“ Cr Kowarzik agreed and said that with the number of “CALD residents [in the shire] growing every day“ it would be “great to have a facility that can cater to everyone”.

The Spring Edition of your favourite family magazine is out now...

Pick up a printed copy of Casey Cardinia Kids Today Magazine from outlets everywhere.

Or, read the full digital edition as it appears in print now!

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OR VISIT: caseycardiniakids.com.au/digital-editions 10 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

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NEWS

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ed that they resisted paying for local news and would engage if it were free.

“This resonates with findings from our first survey of newspaper readers – that is, the existence of a culture of ’free’ where people believe local news content should be readily available without cost to audiences.“ Bruce Morgan, Executive Director, for CPA, said the survey results were not surprising and reinforced the mood of many regional communities.

“It is not just about the survival of local independent (newspaper) businesses, but that it is fundamental to community well-being, and to basic democratic notions of accountability within those communities,“ he said.

“Issues around accessibility and cost are also not surprising and reflect swings in community expectation in recent generations.

Most independent publishers are adapting to that, having learned from the mistakes of the big corporate players who are now deserting the regions.“ Both surveys are part of a national threeyear Australian Research Council-funded project involving researchers from Deakin and RMIT universities, with support from Country Press Australia, the peak media body for independent news organisations. The project is about to enter its third year.

Associate Professor Hess said the voices and perspectives of everyday people were often missing in policy discussion about the future of local media.

Almost 30 per cent of Australia’s population, close to 8 million people, live outside major cities in rural and regional areas, and are lesswell serviced than their urban counterparts.

A copy of the survey report can be found here: www.localnewsinnovation.org

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

More than half of people who do not read local newspapers believe they are essential to their communities, a national survey has found.

Findings from the survey show that 64.5 per cent of respondents consider a printed copy of a local newspaper an essential service to their communities. Further, 48 per cent, or just under half, state that if they ever did read a local newspaper, they prefer to do so in print, compared with online (33 per cent) or via social media (13 per cent).

The survey, conducted in July and August this year, sought the views of 400 Facebook users, who do not read a local newspaper, about the role of local news within their communities.

The research targeted participants in areas that were being served by independent local newspapers within the Country Press Australia (CPA) network.

The findings come as many local newspapers have struggled to survive during the pandemic.

Deakin University Associate Professor Kristy Hess, who is leading the research, said the Facebook survey supported findings from a previous national study of local newspaper readers, her team conducted last year, highlighting a passion for the printed product.

“The fact that social media users examined here (in the latest survey) also indicate a preference for print is perhaps especially profound,“ she said.

Cost and accessibility were the key reasons these Facebook users did not engage with a local newspaper in print or digital format, said Dr Hess.

“Many participants highlighted that the absence of a home-delivery service or easy way to access the paper created an impediment to accessing the physical copy. They also indicat-

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STAR NEWS 11

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Snowy kinder graduation

By Gabriella Payne There was plenty of laughter to be heard at the Cardinia Lakes Early Learning Centre recently, as the young kinder graduates had the time of their lives enjoying a white, snowy Christmas celebration.

After a difficult year, the graduation ceremony and bubble ’snow’ machine went down a treat with the kids, who were squealing with joy as they played together in the snow.

Despite experiencing a challenging start to their education with all the hardships that Covid brought about, Tamika Hicks, the Cardinia Lakes Early Learning Centre manager, said the soon-to-be prep students were an incredibly resilient group of children who were going to

thrive at school.

“After another challenging year navigating lockdowns, Covid outbreaks and at-home learning, we finally made it to the end of the 2021 teaching year,“ Ms Hicks said.

“Our kinder children have now finished one very important chapter of their education journey, the years that set them up for life, their first five years.

“Now they embark on and begin a new learning journey, filled with excitement, as they start prep.

“We send all our graduates off with our best wishes, and to all the preps of 2022, good luck and have fun!“ What a great way to end the year - all the best kids!

We’re all dreaming of a white Christmas - but these kids got to experience one for real (well - almost real).

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Here’s to 2022 - the kids can’t wait to start school very soon!

The amazing staff who helped the kids learn throughout the pandemic were happy to see them graduate.

12 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Priscilla wins two awards

By Shelby Brooks Pakenham’s CPAC Musical Theatre has been awarded two top gongs at the 2021 Music Theatre Guild of Victoria awards.

The company’s April production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert was nominated for four Bruce Awards; Costume Design - Scott Hili, Creative Design of ’Bus Design’ - Scott Hili, Cameo Role - Danielle Tyler as Shirley and Junior Performer - Justin Wilksch as Benji.

Danielle Tyler walked away with the win for Cameo or Minor Role Performance for her portrayal of the rough and tough bogan Shirley.

“I’m overwhelmed and excited,“ she said.

“I didn’t expect it at all, I was just happy to be nominated.“ This was only Danielle’s fourth musical production after first appearing in CPAC’s production of Rock of Ages in 2018.

Although she has been a dancer all her life, acting and singing was something she grew to love once her daughter started performing with CPAC. To prepare for the role of Shirley, Danielle said she watched the movie about 15 times.

“I wanted to get a feel of how the character was portrayed and tried to copy a lot of that,“ she said.

Danielle is also a self-confessed true blue Aussie so other parts of the character came naturally to her.

“I’m laid back and go with the flow,“ she said.

The production also won a Judge’s Award for Scott Hili’s creative pre-show announcement.

“CPAC would like like to offer its congratulations everyone nominated for Music Theatre Guild of Victoria awards for our production of Priscilla Queen of the Desert,“ founder of CPAC Musical Theatre Lee Geraghty said.

“CPAC’s most recent production of A Chorus Line had to be postponed until August 2022 due to Covid-19 restrictions, but CPAC is also delighted to announce that they are turn-

Danielle Tyler as Shirley won the Bruce Award for cameo role. ing 21 next year and to celebrate have put together an amazing concert involving past and present cast members.

“You will get to relive moments from such

productions as Les Miserables, Beauty and the Beast, Catch Me if you Can, Oliver, Kinky Boots, Matilda and many more.“ Tickets are now on sale at trybooking.com/

BTQUM and will be held on Saturday 5 March at 8pm and Sunday 6 March 6 at 2pm.

To stay informed of what is coming in 2022 and 2023 check out cpacmusicaltheatre.com.

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

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Horses lend helping hoof

By Marcus Uhe Equine therapy is being offered to kids and teenagers struggling with mental health issues, learning difficulties and disabilities through the Team Project Pony program at Beaconsfield’s Coventry Psychology at Epona Brae.

Beginning in January 2022, Dr Traci Coventry will oversee the program spearheaded by Jordie Wilkinson, Kate Fremlin and Shona Davis, using the the calming influence of horses, ponies and other animals to connect with a younger generation struggling with the consequences of the pandemic.

Dr Coventry said demand for mental health support has been through the roof coming out of lockdowns.

“It (Team Project Pony) came to be because we have a lot of referrals for kids with anxiety, depression and Covid-19-related stress and social issues,” Dr Coventry said.

“Particularly with young kids aged eight to 12. They’ve done prep, half of grade one and then they went back in lockdown. For a lot of kids, going to school as we know it is terrifying.

“Because of Covid-19 we have 90 kids on the waitlist which is not manageable individually and, for some, they don’t need intensive psychotherapy.

“We don’t go deep in these groups, it’s more about developing social interactions and confidence.”

Equine therapy uses horses to model human behaviours and provide a calm, non-confrontational and non-judgemental presence to the sessions.

Patients are encouraged to slow their breathing and adopt strategies for becoming more in-touch with their emotions.

Other animals at the facility including dogs, cats and chickens provide emotional support and comfort for patients.

Upper Beaconsfield resident Jordie has been working as an integration aide after completing a professional certificate of education support at Monash University earlier this year, with plans to do further study in the field of counselling.

Her talents will complement the skills of Ms Davis, tasked with training and maintaining

the behaviour of the horses, and Ms Fremlin, an equestrian coach who has studied psychology.

Jordie said she was excited to undertake the project with the two other leaders under the guidance of Dr Coventry who has a doctorate in clinical psychology and qualifications in equine assisted psychotherapy.

“The past eight weeks we’ve gotten to know each other so well,” she said. “We all have different skills, and it just blends nicely and we’re learning off each other.”

“Doing counselling normally, that’s one thing, but having the animals there, you can just see the difference in the girls.

“She (Dr Coventry) makes it so fun for the kids that come. They’re learning, they have their quiet times and then they’re calming when they’re with the animals.

“I feel really lucky to be a part of it.”

Jordie’s sister Abbey can vouch for equine therapy after benefiting from the treatment herself.

She attended sessions at Apona Brae as a teenager while dealing with alopecia, and credits working with horses with making a tremendous difference in her life after previous psychology sessions and techniques weren’t beneficial for her.

“It’s a lot more relaxed because animals are there to support you,” Abbey said. “You don’t feel like you’re being interrogated by a person who’s sat you down in an office and you don’t even know them.

“The animals really calm you and it’s something else to focus on rather than just offload all your issues and your fears.

“I had really detached from people at the time because I had lost all my hair through alopecia. I didn’t want to be seen and I didn’t want to talk to anybody, anything like that.

“Because the horses were very interactive, it really helped get my social skills back.”

The sessions are open to both boys and girls and will be covered by the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

For more information on Team Project Pony, head to coventrypsych.com.au/teampony-project/

Dr Traci Coventry has 20 years of experience in Equine Therapy. 262298

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

New family health clinic A new medical centre in Beaconsfield is open seven days a week Beacon Family Healthcare is a newly established, modern medical clinic in Beaconsfield that is family-owned and operated.

Their general practitioners are a group of highly experienced and educated professionals who are willing to provide the best possible care across a wide range of medical conditions.

The brand-new facilities include six consulting rooms, a treatment room and on-site pathology.

The clinic is open Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 2pm, allowing ease of access for all your healthcare needs.

Their aim is to provide comprehensive general practice care to all families and individuals within the community.

They also specialise in providing urgent care services, which includes fracture management and a variety of minor injuries care.

Their minor injury care is a unique service that distinguishes them from other medical practices.

Dr Badar, a specialist general practitioner with diverse clinical experience, has worked across Victoria and New South Wales over the past 13 years. With a soft spoken, amiable, and compassionate demeanour, she is a favourite among her female patients and families alike.

She enjoys all aspects of general practice.

Dr Ahsan brings over 23 years of medical expertise in a variety of hospital based and general practice roles. In addition to general practice, Dr Ahsan has extensive experience in emergency medicine working across Australia as a senior medical officer. His area of speciality is urgent care services.

NOW OPEN Monday to Friday 09:00AM to 09:00PM Saturday & Sunday 09:00AM to 02:00PM

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49 Wallace St, Beaconsfield VIC 3807 Ph: 9087 3565 Thursday, 16 December, 2021

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STAR NEWS 15

BUSINESS PROFILE

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“This turnkey approach to renewables is the culmination of 20 years’ of experience, expertise and intimate knowledge, coupled with an unwavering focus on designing homes that

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Dir ty on dining

By Gabriella Payne

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“About Children, Being Children”

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2021

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a 150kW battery. It will also provide an equitable outcome for residents with all homeowners sharing in the benefits of sustainable lower cost energy.

“The greenfield solution created by Mondo and Lifestyle Communities is innovative, scalable, and future-proofs the community against network changes and supports anticipated regulatory changes requiring an increased focus on renewables by embedded networks.

The solution was carefully designed to balance aesthetics with the placement of solar on northfacing and east-west facing rooftops for maximum energy generation,” said Jodie Hallam,

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Environmentally-friendly homes have long been deemed the domain of the wealthy, a luxury that can be created with the assistance of an architect and deep pockets.

While desirable, they are often placed in the too hard basket for buyers and homeowners alike. For the new residents of Lifestyle Communities’ Meridian development, a purpose-built sustainable community has been designed that provides homeowners with the ability to not only minimise their carbon footprint, but save money on energy usage.

Lifestyle Meridian is Lifestyle Communities’ smartest community yet, the latest in a growing list of communities redefining the downsizing lifestyle for homeowners. It is the company’s 19th community in Victoria with state-of-the-art enhancements that tick all the boxes and hit all the spots when it comes to sustainability. 274 homes will be powered for the future with a range of energy-efficient initiatives, setting the standard for all future Lifestyle Communities developments where sustainability will be at the heart of all design decisions.

Partnering with Mondo, energy experts who have designed the infrastructure and expertise required to make this possible. Lifestyle Communities has deployed a suite of rooftop solar photovoltaics (PV) and battery solutions across all homes. These solutions are optimised to provide the entire community’s energy needs and to maximise community bill savings through Mondo’s intelligent energy management platform.

Lifestyle Meridian will become its own power plant within what is known as an embedded network, minimising energy drawn from the grid and maximising its use of clean solar energy. The microgrid, the largest of its kind in any retirement community in Australia, will allow energy sharing amongst residents based on 450kW of solar deployed across 78 of the total 275 homes, the Clubhouse, and

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Thursday, 16 December, 2021

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STAR NEWS 17

NEWS

Watch for rising costs TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH a price increase.

Unfortunately, in the haste to increase sales volumes, in many instances the original cost base may not even be revisited, and so even new quotes can still be based upon historical raw material costs (I have seen increases of 40 per cent and more in just the space of a couple of months). This is likely to lead to significantly reduced margins or even losses on the job or project before work has even started! In this case, the business owner may only discover the problem when the Profit and Loss statements start to show seriously lower net profits or even losses.

You will be able to see this at a high level by simply calculating your Gross Margin on your jobs or for the monthly business results from your financial system. As we noted in a previous article, Gross Margin is calculated as follows: Gross Margin (GM) = (Sales – Cost of Goods Sold) / Sales x 100 per cent Since the raw material and freight costs will show up as part of Cost of Goods Sold, so the more that these increase for the same value of sales, the lower the Gross Margin will be.

Whilst this may seem somewhat obvious, I do know of one client that had not revisited the pricing of some raw materials since 1985 so he was actually paying his customers to take the product off his hands!

Ian Ash is the managing director for OrgMent Business Solutions.

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Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number.

It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

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

Thursday, 16 December, 2021

Ford Motor Mechanic

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Leongatha Ford are looking for a highly motivated experienced Motor Mechanic to join our vibrant team.

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Skills and Experience Required • Fully qualified welder, preferably Certificate III in Engineering - Heavy Fabrication (or equivalent trade qualification) • Plate/Structural Boilermakers - The ability to pass a weld test to AS1554 standard - GMAW • Relevant experience in Plate Work, Pipework and/or Structural Fabrication • Confident fabricator with the ability to demonstrate a clear understanding of technical drawings and design • High standard of workmanship and attention to detail • Be reliable and a team player • Hold a current and valid Australian driver’s licence Position Benefits • Established, successful and innovative company • Company culture that values initiative and ideas for process improvement • Opportunity to grow and develop • Flexible and diverse workplace that encourages work/life balance

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As is well-known and documented, the past couple of years have been pretty tough for many businesses, especially those in the travel, hospitality and retail sectors as a result of Covid-19.

Many other businesses have been able to cope through a combination of innovation and government support but over the past few months, it has become evident that the virus has left a trail of destruction in its wake.

During lockdowns, demand for raw materials was necessarily reduced and the ability to deliver nationally was hampered by border controls and restrictions. However, as we start to emerge from lockdown and demand start to increase, impacts to the supply chain are becoming increasingly clear (see cnbc. com/2021/10/18/supply-chain-chaos-is-hitting-global-growth-and-could-get-worse.html for the reasons behind this).

As a result, many businesses are now experiencing the age-old economic principle of supply and demand that as supply reduces and/or demand increases, so the price (of raw materials and transportation) inevitably goes up.

Over recent weeks, I have noticed that this has had a dramatic effect on many businesses, especially those in manufacturing and construction as many are suddenly finding that they are losing money.

A common reason for this is due to the fact that it is not at all unusual for quotes provided some months back to now be taken up by customers, but since the quotation was done, the cost of raw materials and transportation has increased. Unless the quotation specifically allowed for the ability to reprice raw material and freight costs or had a limited timeframe for which the pricing was valid, suppliers now find themselves in the uncomfortable position of either having to default on the delivery, do the work for reduced margin or try to negotiate

- A Light Vehicle Mechanic Trade Qualification - A manual Driver's Licence (essential) - Have good attention to detail providing quality workmanship for the job at hand - Good solid work ethic - Competent and reliable - Good communication skills - Good customer service skills - Keep a clean and tidy workplace - Be a team player - Have full Australian working rights

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pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Transition phase for Lions

By David Nagel The Pakenham Football Club (PFC) is currently in the process of transitioning to a new committee after a motion was passed for the current committee to step down at a re-run of the club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Heatherbrae Reserve on Tuesday 7 December.

The PFC was in the unique position of having to re-run its AGM after life members of the club highlighted some flaws in the original process at the initial AGM held on Thursday 4 November.

At the original meeting a number that constitutes a quorum was not met, meaning the meeting was to be held again.

The rescheduled AGM – held in an open forum with life members, ordinary members, honorary members and non-members in attendance – quickly turned into a discussion over the Constitution of the Pakenham Football Club and the rights of memberships.

According to the Constitution, only ordinary members – defined as a fully-paid up member of the senior football club over the age of 18 years, playing and non-playing – and life members, are entitled to the following: to vote at any meetings of the club; be nominated for election to the committee; and nominate or second the nomination of a member for election to the Committee.

A majority of the committee, as it stood last Tuesday, were honorary members of the club – not ordinary members or life members – and as such, according to the Constitution, were not eligible to stand on the committee.

A motion was put forward by life member Derrick Brown that the current committee step down due to being non-compliant, according to the Constitution.

· · ·

Ordinary members and life members in attendance were then identified, with honorary members and non-members – who were not eligible to vote – moved to one side of the room, while those eligible to vote remained.

A total of 47 members – either ordinary or life members – were then asked to vote, while 15 proxy votes were also put forward.

The motion was then voted on, with a number of 61 to 1 voting in favour of the current committee standing down.

Past-president Steve Moloney then chaired

the meeting from that point forward, thanking the outgoing committee for their service and explaining the ramifications of being noncompliant. Moloney then asked for nominations for an interim committee from the floor – with an interim committee of 11 nominated and seconded on the night.

The interim committee was to meet for the first time last night – Tuesday 14 December – at Heatherbrae to begin the process of electing a President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary and ordinary members of the committee, and

beginning the transition moving forward.

The landslide vote comes amid discontent at decisions being made by the committee with a perceived lack of consultation and communication with key stake holders.

The Gazette understands that several senior players at the club were prepared to walk if the current committee remained.

President Travis Hamilton – who was challenged robustly by members on the night – was nominated and seconded to the interim committee.

BDTA in the big dance

By David Nagel Two teams from the Berwick District Tennis Association (BDTA) have made it all the way through to the Associations Junior League (AJL) Grand Finals that were played on Sunday.

The BDTA had five teams entered in the AJL, with teams in 10-Under Mixed, 12-Under Boys, 14-Under Boys, 16-Under Boys and 18-Under Mixed taking on the best from different associations around the state.

The season consisted of five home-andaway matches before grand finals were played on the weekend.

Every team was required to have four players, with mixed teams made up of two boys and two girls.

Unfortunately both teams were unsuccessful in their quest for grand final glory, but the 12_under Boys and 16-Under Boys did the BDTA proud with some great performances during the season and acquitting themselves well on grand final day.

The 12-Under Boys went down to an im-

Representing the BDTA in the AJL 12-Under Boys grand final were, from left, Kai Hurst, Nathan Rato, Jovan Celic, Tharun Krishnaa and Zac Di Bartolomeo. pressive Bayside-Moorabbin outfit – 2 5:46 to 4 5:47 – while the 16-Under Boys fell short against a strong team from Waverley Tennis – going down 1 2:28 to 5 8:59.

The BDTA would like to congratulate its two grand final teams and also every player who represented the association during the AJL season this year.

Past and present members of the Pakenham Tennis Club say goodbye to the famous old courts on Anderson Street.

PTC bids a fond farewell

By David Nagel

The BDTA 16-Under grand final team, from left, Dulain Bulathsinhala, Kane Hurst, Jai Mantri and Lachlan Pitman. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

The Pakenham Tennis Club has brought great joy and many happy memories to the thousands of players who have graced the famous courts at Anderson Street over the years.

Back through the years, the Pakenham Tennis Club has been a thriving part of the local community, with huge tournaments bringing big crowds to the courts that Pakenham players called home.

Players like Ron and Val Carroll played some big matches on the courts at Anderson Street as the Pakenham Tennis Club held its own against the best from around the region.

On Sunday, past and present members of the club came together to celebrate the great times, as the Pakenham Tennis Club makes the move to the Pakenham Regional Tennis Centre on Webster Way. The Pakenham Tennis Club may have a new home…but the memories of the Anderson Street courts will last a lifetime.

Pakenham Tennis Club stalwart Steve O’Loughlin reflects on the good old days at Anderson Street.

Thursday, 16 December, 2021

|

STAR NEWS 19

SPORT

Moving on

By Nick Creely

Paul Wiles (Merinda Park) faces a ball from Noah Parraga (Officer). 261696

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Lions clawing back

By Nick Creely and Dave Nagel Perennial powerhouse Pakenham (5/165) is finally on the board – just one game outside the top-four – after the classy Jason Williams (66 not out) guided the Lions to a five-wicket win over a plucky Clyde (9/164) at Toomuc Reserve on Saturday.

Williams, back to his best after a poor run of form last season, steadied the ship after the ailing Lions looked cast in the early stages of their run chase.

Liam Bennett (2/31) trapped Jack Anning (2) in front, and when skipper Matt Aslett (2/15) disrupted the poles of the dangerous Chris Smith (10) the Lions were in all sorts of trouble at 2/23.

For a team that had not won a game in 2021…belief would not have been at a high!

But Williams and Rob Elston (36) called on years of collective experience to get the Lions back on track with a 31-run partnership dominated by Elston.

Daniel Lever (1/34) made the breakthrough – removing Elston – but not before the veteran keeper had crunched five boundaries to show his teammates that anything was still possible.

Williams then blossomed, buckling into the driver’s seat in a 79-run stand with Troy McDermott (28)...the most important partnership of the Lions’ season!

Lose one of these two early – and the Lions would likely be zero-and-four right now – three games behind the Cougars and kissing their season’s hopes goodbye.

But Williams – a Pakenham stalwart – dug deep, smacking six balls to the boundary, and

one over the ropes, as he and McDermott kept pace with the required rate. McDermott then fell, bowled by Aslett, with the Lions still 32 shy of victory.

Steve Insall (0) came and went in a hurry, before the hard-hitting Sean Gramc (16 not out) joined his long-time mate to steer the Lions home to a nail-biting win for their supporters.

Clyde had the upper hand in the early part of this contest, with Suchin Herath (53) and Joel Avard (42) putting on a 96-run stand for the third wicket.

The Cougars were roaring loudest at 2/109 before Pat Lawson (4/23) – playing against his old team – and Smith (3/44) would share the next six wickets to fall to bring an even feel to the game at the half-way mark.

Kane Avard (24) also contributed to the Cougars cause, while Lion youngster Tom Brennan (1/19 off 6) bowled tightly in another impressive display.

But the day belonged to Williams, McDermott, Elston and Gramc – in that particular order – in a run-chase that could have serious ramifications when we line up the best four teams in mid-March next year!

The Lions face a dangerous trip to an unpredictable Cranbourne Meadows this week, whileClyde will hope to rebound at home against Merinda Park in a crunch-game for both clubs.

The battle for fourth place is really heating up.

Down at Chandler Reserve in the District competition, the undefeated Officer contin-

Taj Beddows lets fly. 261696 ued on their merry way with a barnstorming win against Emerald.

The Bombers did a lot right – particularly with the bat – with a flashy 69 from 68 balls from skipper Owen Thorne providing the spark to lift his side to 7/191.

Thorne cracked 10 fours and two sixes in his outstanding hand, with Jordan Robinson also batting nicely in his knock of 41.

The evergreen Leigh Boyle snared 2/27 for the Bullants.

As good sides do, the Bullants didn’t give the Bombers a sniff.

Openers Nick McLennan (46) and the promoted Billy Carlyle (57) took the game away with a 111-run opening stand, with the pair crunching 13 fours and a six between them.

Jack James then put some icing on top with a classy unbeaten 44 as the Bullants won by seven wickets.

With the full backing of member clubs at the recent Special General Meeting, the Outer East Football Netball League has moved from AFL Victoria Country to a Metropolitan league in 2022.

The new league – formally known as AFL Outer East – will launch in 2022, with the league releasing its new logo, reflecting the storied history of the competition, as well as the geographical region of the clubs and the future.

With the transition to a metropolitan model, which is going to occur over coming months, league chair Tony Mitchell said it was pleasing to get the wheels in motion.

“It is with great pleasure that after two years of assessment, and consultation with members clubs, the move was endorsed at a Special General Meeting on September 27th, with overwhelming support of all member clubs,” he said.

“Much consideration was undertaken over the past two years, with the positives and potential negatives with the move from Country to Metro, this included discussions with existing Metro Leagues throughout Melbourne seeking their guidance and assistance.

“This is a positive move for our clubs in both junior and senior, and all male and female Football and Netball competitions throughout our region.

“I would like to thank Brad Scott and his management team at AFL Victoria with their guidance, recommended approach and support with the transition across to Metro, we as a competition can Some of the key changes to occur will be the re-introduction of voting rights for clubs in key matters such as new club entry, greater ability to implement local rules and by-laws, increased investment in staffing and club development, alignment with the talent pathway, clear governance alignment to neighbouring leagues and increased commercial opportunities and partnerships.

The senior fixtures are expected to be released in coming weeks.

“Not a great deal changes for our participants and clubs. Outer East Football Netball will still maintain the best elements of what country and metropolitan football and netball has to offer, with no changes to competitions and game day for participants or clubs,” Mitchell explained.

“The region has seen both significant change and growth over the past five years. Our focus now is to consolidate and build on the work been undertaken and this move will help us to achieve this.”

Rare and exquisite beauty as show jumpers take flight News Photographer STEWART CHAMBERS was and about on Saturday, capturing all the action of community sport, when something beautiful caught his eye…the sight of magnificent horses being put through their paces at the Cora Lynn Show Jumping Club. Sit back and enjoy these great photos taken at the Cora Lynn Recreation Reserve.

Debra Heyes on McManus.

20 STAR NEWS

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Sarah Jelbart riding Flowerdale Majorca. 261872

Thursday, 16 December, 2021

Pryanka Joshi jumping Major Attraction. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au