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Dancing in the moonlight
Nick and Jack Riewoldt check out the Cranbourne home to be auctioned for Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision. 267868
Pictures: GARY SISSONS
L-R Nick and Jack Riewoldt. 267868
Home for Maddie By Marcus Uhe Fairhaven Homes is donating fully built, fully furnished four-bedroom home in Cranbourne to be auctioned-off in March to raise money for Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision. Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision (MRV) is a charity organisation formed by the Riewoldt family, endeavouring to find a cure for Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes (BMFS) through medical research. MRV is named after former St Kilda Football Club captain Nick Riewoldt’s sister, Maddie, who passed-away due to complications of a BMFS called Aplastic Anaemia in February 2015, aged 26, after a five-year battle with the condition.
Nick and his cousin, three-time premiership winning Tiger, Jack Riewoldt, were in Cranbourne on Wednesday 9 February to promote the upcoming auction, to be held on Saturday 26 March at 29 Snead Boulevard. General Manager of Business Services at Fairhaven Homes, Mark Collins, said Fairhaven Homes is thrilled to be assisting MRV. “Fairhaven Homes is proud to be partnering with Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision again,” Mr Collins said. “The auction in 2019 was a great success. “We are looking forward to this year’s auction and generating maximum proceeds for a great cause.”
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In July 2019, Fairhaven Homes auctioned a four-bedroom home in Point Cook that was sold for $736,000, with proceeds going towards the foundation. The goal is to exceed that mark with this auction. Chief Executive of MRV, Elaine Montegriffo, thanked everyone involved. “So many people have generously contributed their time, their services and their energy to come together and build this fabulous home!” Ms Montegriffo said. “We are incredibly grateful to Fairhaven Homes and to Balcon who have generously donated the land, so that we can raise vital funds to discover cures for
Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes. “Quite simply, the more money we can raise on the day, the sooner we’ll be able to realise Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision – so that Australians diagnosed with Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes get to live long, happy, healthy lives. “Someone’s dream home could save lives.” The two-storey, 34.5 square-metre home features three bathrooms, including an ensuite and a walk-in robe for the upstairs master bedroom, and a double-car garage. For more information on MRV head to www.mrv.org.au/, or for more on the property, go to fairhavenhomes.com.au/displayhomes/mayfield-334/
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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Councillors pay tribute By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Michael Johnson, owner of Moonlit Sanctuary, and some of the Sanctuary team at the Awards Gala event at Crown. 267580
Picture: SUPPLIED
Dancing in the awards moonlight Pearcedale’s Moonlit Sanctuary has again excelled at the RACV 2021 Victorian Tourism awards on Thursday 3 February, winning gold in the Ecotourism category for the fifth time, and the third time in three years. Moonlit Sanctuary is home to over 70 species and more than 400 animals and observes the highest standards of animal welfare and husbandry, is welfare accredited with the Zoo Aquarium Association and is a member of the Humane Society International Wildlife Land Trust. Michael Johnson, Founder and Director of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, was delighted with the result. “We were particularly pleased to receive the highest level of recognition for Ecotourism as this category reflects our values,” Mr Johnson said. “As a privately-owned Sanctuary, our aim is to grow awareness of the work we do towards conservation and endangered species recovery.
“Our commitment to conservation is pivotal to our business and we do our best to keep our standards at the highest level possible. “Our priority is to always give our visitors an engaging and meaningful experience and it is an immense honour to have our efforts recognised.” Visitors to the Sanctuary can wander around 10 hectares of Australian bushland, meeting endangered species, feeding kangaroos, and wallabies. They can also enjoy up-close encounters with koalas, birds, pythons, dingoes and more. Many animals roam freely around the Sanctuary, including a variety of water birds that call Moonlit’s wetlands home. Chief Executive of the Victoria Tourism Industry Council Felicia Mariani said the Sanctuary’s recognition was a testament to the perseverance, passion and resilience of our tourism operators across the state. “Not only have they had to try to keep a
business running in the face of adversity, they also had the responsibility of providing for so many animals in their care when the business had no revenue to support this,” Ms Mariani said. “Their commitment to excellence is a shining star in our industry and being part of this prestigious awards event is testament to their exemplary performance.” Moonlit Sanctuary are now finalists at the Qantas National Tourism Awards for Eco Tourism and look forward to representing Melbourne at this prestigious event at Queensland’s Sunshine Coast Convention Centre. For over 30 years the Victorian Tourism Awards have showcased and recognised the state’s leaders in tourism excellence, and encourage businesses to meet and strive to exceed industry standards. The awards play an integral role in rewarding business excellence, innovation, industry professionalism and collaboration.
More trains hit the tracks from Sunday By Marcus Uhe Fifty extra services per week will run on the Cranbourne line as part of a new timetable beginning Sunday 13 February. The new timetable will see 30 peak services extended from Westall or Dandenong to Cranbourne each week, giving passengers more choice during busy times. Another 20 daytime services will be extended to and from Cranbourne while five nonpeak services will be extended to Pakenham each week. An additional 524 services will stop at Malvern Station each week as part of the changes to give passengers more options. The changes are a result of works to upgrade the Cranbourne line, including removing level crossings and building a new station at Merinda Park. 8km of new duplicated track will be laid between Dandenong and Cranbourne as part of the upgrade, eliminating bottlenecks and allowing trains to run every 10 minutes on average in the morning peak. The Cranbourne and Pakenham lines will be level crossing free by 2025.
Greater Dandenong councillors have paid tribute to former City of Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon. Ms Stapledon, 58, was a “formidable person” and “fierce advocate for her community”, fellow Liberal Cr Tim Dark told a Greater Dandenong council meeting on 24 January. “She had contributed a significant amount of time, often at the bequest and expense of her own life to help Council facilities wherever she could.” Cr Dark said she was “well regarded” by a range of sports clubs and community groups, sat on several community advisory boards and always helpful to him with advice on regional issues. Her advocacy for upgrading Thompsons Road, Monash Freeway and other links had benefited Greater Dandenong. Ms Stapledon – who had been rocked by an IBAC inquiry into Casey councillors – was found dead in a car in Stringybark Drive about 12.30pm on Tuesday 18 January. Her death was being treated by police as not suspicious. “Unfortunately, the impact that an IBAC investigation has upon one person and the pressures it brings amongst other things, which no doubt over time will come out, has put a significant amount of pressure and has put her in a position which I am sure nobody else would rather be in,” Cr Dark said. “It is a very great tragedy.” Mayor Jim Memeti voiced his condolences to Ms Stapledon’s family. “A tragic loss to the community,” he said. “I have known former Cr Stapledon for about a decade. She was always very approachable, very kind and a strong advocate for disability groups. “She had a great passion for the community and will be sorely missed.” Councillors and former mayors Angela Long and Sean O’Reilly also paid tribute. Cr Long, while both she and Ms Stapledon were mayors in 2012, had regular lunch dates with five other female mayors. “My deepest condolences to her family.” Cr O’Reilly, in expressing his “sorrow”, said Ms Stapledon was a “very friendly, helpful and collegiate councillor”. Ms Stapledon’s funeral service was held at Berwick Church of Christ on 2 February.
Tributes have flowed for former Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon. Picture: GARY SISSONS
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STAR NEWS 3
NEWS
Grassroots clubs struggle By Jonty Ralphsmith Many local sporting clubs have suffered a downturn of junior numbers, the Australian Sports Foundation (ASF) has found. The survey’s findings were announced in a press release last month: 60 per cent of clubs are worrying about participant and member retention and twice as many clubs were reporting a decline in participation. Ryan Holloway, partnerships manager at ASF, said Covid-19 fatigue had reduced registration numbers. He added that the mass participation winter sports, those who have been most affected by punctuated seasons in between lockdowns last year after 2020 was wiped out, have generally suffered the most. Clubs in the Casey area tended to follow a similar trend. Football clubs have generally seen a slower uptake of registration than in previous years. Damon Bryan from the Narre North Foxes hypothesised that many people were adopting a ‘wait-and-see’ approach, cautious not to commit to another stop-start season. Softball has suffered an 18 per cent reduction in participation numbers with 224 players in the 2021/22 season compared to 276 in the final season prior to Covid-19. Given the sport’s smaller profile, it relies heavily on promotion in schools to gain numbers and has been restricted since the onset of Covid-19 has made such marketing difficult. Tennis, however, has benefited from the Ash Barty and Nick Kyrgios effect. The Australian Open generally leads to an uptake of tennis, but after seven Aussies reached the Australian Open Final, the demand for tennis has soared. “Tennis is back,” Allison Miller from Berwick Tennis Club said. Ms Miller received eight calls on the night
The ASF has reported a down turn in junior numbers. of Saturday 29 January, when Barty and Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis won their Australian Open titles. “The Australian Open is always a brilliant marketing concept for us but I think numbers are stronger than I’ve ever had before,” she added. “I don’t have much room to expand so I’m putting people on waiting lists and still getting more enquiries.” Mr Holloway also confirmed that tennis and golf have not suffered like other sports as they can be delivered in a Covid-safe environment. The Berwick Basketball Club is another that has increased numbers significantly, with
an further 100 players from last year, putting them in a better position than they were in 2019. A club spokesperson attributed the increase to proactive advertising. Among the clubs spoken to, volunteer numbers were a common source of concern, regardless of registration trends. Players attract parents who can assist around the club, however some clubs reported Covid-19 fatigue as a disincentive for helpers. One in two clubs acorss the board are unable to retain volunteers according to the ASF. One club also reported that reduced numbers attending social events, raising concern that it has led to a deteriorated culture. There was a variation of ages that clubs re-
ported as being of particular concern regarding participation, but Mr Holloway said it was the down turn in 11-18-year-olds that is most concerning. “That sector of kids in the 11-18 year olds will be the next presidents, secretaries, volunteers that run barbecues, so it’s important we capture them in at participation during those formative years and keep them connected to their clubs because they will make up the next generation of volunteers at the clubs,” Mr Holloway said. He further explained the key physical, social and mental benefits that sports provide in urging children to play. “Community and grassroots clubs are the place people go to connect to find purpose and find people with similar values and connect with people they wouldn’t necessarily connect with on a day to day basis,” he said. “Sport is the great leveller and exposes young people to a wide variety of people in the community - it’s not just the place people go to run around and play but also to connect.” Of the clubs surveyed by the ASF, 83 per cent lost revenue because of Covid-19 and 13 per cent of clubs expressed concerns about financial solvency indicating 9000 clubs country-wide are at risk of going under. The Australian Sports Foundation has assisted via the Active Kids Grants program. The grant allowed clubs at various stages to apply for funding of up to $10, 000 to supply equipment and/or uniform for their players. The Get Active Kids Vouchers, a program supported by the state government, will return for 2022 allowing parents and legal guardians to apply for reimbursements of up to $200 for membership or registration fees or the cost of equipment and/or uniform. Get in touch with your local sporting club to get you or your child involved in sport and buck the downward trend.
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“ Having my parents support me when I came out made me feel safe and loved.”
When a loved one is open about their gender identity and sexuality, choosing to celebrate and support them means a lot. Visit respectvictoria.vic.gov.au to learn more. If you need support call Rainbow Door on 1800 729 367. 4 STAR NEWS
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No bail: Judge fears for woman’s safety By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Doveton man accused of seriously injuring a woman with “blunt trauma” to the head has been refused bail. William Hogan is contesting charges including common law assault, three unlawful assaults, two counts of recklessly causing injury, intentional property damage and committing an indictable offence on bail. In arguing against bail, police alleged at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court that his victim sustained blunt trauma to the head. This caused a brain bleed and impaired brain functioning. She also suffered multiple soft tissue injuries, a police prosecutor told the court on 3 February. Hogan had been on bail at the time of the
alleged attack, and was an unacceptable risk of re-offending across “all the categories”, police alleged. Defence lawyer Jacqui Hession said “there’s no question the allegations are serious”. But Hogan was entitled to the presumption of innocence and the right to liberty, she argued. If released on bail, Hogan was eligible for CISP supervision, including drug counselling. Ms Hession noted that Hogan himself was protected from the complainant under an interim intervention order. There was also an intervention order to protect the alleged victim from him. Hogan, who had been in remand for 82 days, faced a total delay of nearly eight months before his contest hearing in late June.
Building site burglar cops jail
Magistrate Steven Raleigh noted that given the victim’s alleged injuries, Hogan faced potentially more than seven months jail if guilty. He said he wouldn’t be surprised if the case was uplifted to the County Court. In refusing bail, Mr Raleigh said he was not satisfied that Hogan was an unacceptable risk of re-offending, failing to appear on bail and of interfering with witnesses. “I’m afraid for the safety of the complainant in this matter.” “What has changed that would make me think he’d comply with bail conditions if I would impose them?” Mr Raleigh said at one point of the hearing. Hogan was remanded to appear at a contest mention at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 1 March.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells A serial burglar has been jailed for nine months after raiding construction sites across the South East in a hire car. Kevin Campbell, 34, was sentenced at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 7 February after being assessed for a community corrections order. He and his accomplices stole two dishwashers, two ovens, a key safe, and about $5000 of tools and hardware during five break-ins in three days in Keysborough, Patterson Lakes and Seaford. They hired a Toyota Camry that was monitored by a tracking device during the burglaries in late August 2021. Campbell also pled guilty to evading and recklessly putting police in danger of serious injury after his hire car was pulled over by police at a “known address of criminal activity” in Carrum Downs early on 23 August. He sped forward at the stationary police car, forcing its driver to accelerate heavily and veer left to avoid a crash. Campbell’s car fled at speeds of more than 100 km/h along Gamble Road. He was disqualified from driving and on a community corrections order (CCO) at the time. The next day, police arrested Campbell and his co-accused in his Doveton motel room. Police seized the Camry hire car as well as stolen tools and a range of hardware stolen from the Keysborough building site. Campbell also pled guilty to being caught driving six times despite being disqualified for 30 months at Frankston Magistrates’ Court in late 2020. He was also charged with breaching an intervention order by following and flashing lights at a victim in her friend’s car. Prior to sentencing, police had urged for a lengthy jail term. Campbell’s lawyer submitted for a CCO plus time already served in remand. The CCO assessment found Campbell was at high-risk of reoffending. Magistrate Greg Connellan noted that Campbell’s nine month jail term included 167 days spent in pre-sentence remand. Upon release, he must serve 15 months on a treatment-based community correction order, including judicial monitoring. The repeat traffic offender was also disqualified from driving for five years.
Major works on track along Clyde Road Major works are on track at Clyde Road, Berwick as part of the Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP). LXRP staff are continuing works that will see the new road underpass opened in late February. In the past week, staff installed architectural concrete panels in the underpass, began installing a comprehensive drainage network under Clyde Road to prevent the new underpass from flooding and prepared to build new shared use paths. Soon the team will lay asphalt, complete line marking on Clyde Road and create new surfaces for the shared paths. LXRP thanked the community for their patience as works progress to reopen a level crossing-free Clyde Road. Enterprise Avenue will remain open at all times during major works, under changed traffic conditions. Traffic has been switched over to the other side of the intersection of Enterprise Avenue and Clyde Road. Residents have been asked to follow signage and traffic conditions and to allow extra time when travelling through the area.
A convoy of trucks removes material excavated for the underpass. Buses replace trains on sections of the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines until Thursday 10 February. Clyde Road Berwick will be closed in both directions between the level crossing and the Langmore Lane/Mansfield Street intersection
Picture: LXRP
until 11.59pm on Sunday 20 February. Berwick’s Reserve Street and Jane Street between Clyde Road and Evan Street will also be closed until the same day. For more information, visit levelcrossings. vic.gov.au
Officers suspended from duty after arrest By Jamie Salter Two senior constables aged 34 and 45, were suspended from duty as of Tuesday 8 February following a Narre Warren South arrest. A 58-year-old man was injured during an arrest in Narre Warren South shortly before 1.30am on Friday, 4 February. The man was taken to hospital for treat-
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ment and has since been released, Victoria Police said in a statement. The two officers involved in the arrest were from the transit and public safety command. Victoria Police notified The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) when a Professional Standards Command investigation was launched. IBAC works to expose and prevent use of
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force by police and will oversee the Victoria Police investigation. IBAC reviews the outcomes of Victoria Police internal investigations to check they have been investigated thoroughly and fairly, which may result in recommendations for Victoria Police to strengthen its policies and procedures to address police misconduct issues.
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What's on Cardinia Festival Enjoy a month-long celebration with free pop up events and attractions at venues and locations across Cardinia Shire. Visit the What’s On Cardinia website for festival information.
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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STAR NEWS 5
OPINION
IN BRIEF Stolen car pursuit in SE A stolen car pursued by police through the South East has allegedly rammed of two police vehicles in Melbourne’s CBD. The white 2015 BMW X6 wagon with stolen plates was followed by police through Narre Warren, Rowville, Dandenong South and Glen Waverley areas on the night of Tuesday 8 February, Victoria Police stated. The police Air Wing was also involved in the pursuit. At midnight, the wagon stopped on Domain Road in Melbourne. While attempting a U-turn, it allegedly rammed two police vehicles. The wagon had been stolen in an aggravated burglary in Burwood East on Monday 7 February, police say. The driver, a 30-year-old Tullamarine man, was arrested and taken to hospital under police guard. A 21-year-old Collingwood woman, who was the wagon’s passenger, was released pending further enquiries. Police say there were no injuries.
LANG LANG SHOW’n’SHINE & SWAP MEET Sun.13th FEB.
Standing again I read with interest friends of a former Casey councillor are blaming IBAC for her passing (Herald-Sun, 4 February). Of course it is easy to blame this organisation for its timing of the draft but this report had to come out sooner or later. It is sad that her life has been taken and my condolences to the family for their loss. When I was elected as a councillor to the Springfield ward back in 2016 I remember the first book I got to read was the councillors code of conduct to which I followed to a T. It explained what to do and what not to do as a councillor. I resigned in 2020 as I could no longer work under the suspicion of being involved in alleged corruption. As you all will soon learn I played no part in these accusations. Over the past couple of years regardless of your innocence you get tarnished of all your credibility and who has ever had apologised to me? Unfortunately no one. I plan to run again in 2024 and serve the residents of Springfield with honour and integrity as they truly deserve, as I did from 2016-20. Rex Flannery, Narre Warren South
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LAWN MOWER RACING
A beautiful morning in Berwick.
Picture: GIRIJA DESAI
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs down! To the roadworks - just do one job at a time stop blocking off Cranbourne and surrounding suburbs - it’s becoming a joke.
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LANG LANG SHOWGROUNDS
Thumbs down! To constant construction on the roads everywhere. It is so hard to get around at the moment, it’s ridiculous.
Thumbs down! To so many roadworks in so many locations, so close in proximity which cause traffic snarls in all directions.
Thumbs down!
Thumbs down!
To the NDIS trying to cut my brothers funding.
To constant roadworks and lane closures on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road during the morning peak.
Thumbs down! To Ballarto Road between South Gippsland Highway and Clyde-Five Ways Road.
Thumbs down! To aged care facilities having to lockdown every time there is a Covid-19 case.
Thumbs up!
Thumbs down!
To my dad celebrating his birthday today.
To people who park in a disabled parking space without a permit.
Thumbs up!
Thumbs up!
To all the beautiful gardens in the surrounding neighbourhood.
To the wonderful staff at the Casey Fields Covid-19 testing centre!
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
Myuna Farm is receiving a $350,000 upgrade to improve the children’s farm community pavilion, making it more accessible and better suited to community needs. The funding comes as part of the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund. Local Government Minister Shaun Leane joined Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams at the Myuna Farm on Wednesday 2 February to announce the redevelopment. “It has been great to come out to Myuna Farm and see firsthand the difference this funding will make to families and children who come here to learn about Australian farming and sustainability,“ Ms Williams said. The development is one of a number of projects Casey City Council will revitalise for the growing community, through more than $3.2 million from the Victorian Government fund. Mr Leane said it was a great opportunity to assist the City of Casey. “We’re supporting Casey City Council to upgrade these popular community facilities so more people can enjoy them now and into the future,“ he said. Ray Bastin Reserve, home to the Spacerocket Park, will also be redeveloped with $1.6 million, to include more opportunities for exercise and play. “The improvements to the Ray Bastin Reserve will be great for the community and will ensure families and community members of all ages have a place to come to connect and enjoy the outdoors,“ Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan said. The Gwendoline Children’s Centre will be upgraded to support more families in the Ber-
Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas and Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams visit Myuna Farm. wick area, thanks to more than $920,000. Council will also receive $350,000 to redevelop Tooradin Public Hall in a bid to support more community members as the population grows. Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas said the funding would assist the growing region. “Projects like the Gwendoline Children’s Centre Upgrade ensure that families in Casey have access to the essential services like Kin-
dergarten and Maternal and Child Health that they need to thrive.” The Growing Suburbs Fund has invested more than $39.17 million towards 28 projects across Casey, including a major redevelopment of the Pearcedale Recreation Reserve Pavilion and expansion of the Littlecroft Family and Community Centre in Narre Warren South. For more information on the fund, visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
IN BRIEF
Major boost for palliative care By Jamie Salter Victorian Liberal Leader Matthew Guy has announced a $2 million commitment to help fund a new facility for Palliative Care South East (PCSE) in Narre Warren. The investment will mean better services through the construction of a wellness centre, which will help keep 144 cancer patients from requiring acute hospital care. Funds for the new facility have so far been raised fully by PCSE through savings, bequests and fundraising. PCSE chief executive officer Kelly Rogerson said palliative care was a vital service that should not be funded by “turning sausages”. “In 2018, we were advised our current facility would no longer be available to us and we identified Narre Warren as a key spot for us to be,” she said. “We’ve been able to fund over 63 per cent of this building...we’re calling on the State Government to finish it off.” She said community facing areas including counselling rooms, clinic rooms, and community and volunteer spaces were vital to meeting an increase in demand for services. “In the last two years we’ve seen a 63 per cent increase in the number of admissions we’ve had and at any given time we’re caring for over 400 people in the community - that’s enough people to fill the Royal Children’s Hospital,” she said. Victorian Liberal Leader Matthew Guy said the project was essential to ensuring the healthcare system could deliver the services Victorians deserve.
Teenagers in custody Two teenagers have been remanded in custody following an armed robbery at a Narre Warren shopping centre that occurred on Tuesday 4 January, 2022. It is alleged the 14-year-old victim had a pair of scissors held to his throat and his mobile phone stolen. Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives charged a 13-year-old from Cranbourne South and a 17-year-old from Dandenong. Both remain in custody to appear at a Children’s Court at a later date.
Suspended drug driver caught
Victorian Liberal Leader Matthew Guy, Member for Berwick Brad Battin and representatives of Palliative Care South East celebrate the funding boost. “PCSE has outgrown its current location and requires a larger facility to ensure it can continue to provide the highest standard of care,” he said. “Acute hospital care can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, this investment will keep patients out of hospital, in comfortable care and closer to family. “We can’t stop investing in services like palliative care, that’s why this facility is so important.” Member for Gembrook Brad Battin said there has been a major increase in the uptake of people using palliative care in the southeast. “We’re very proud to support palliative care,” Mr Battin said. “Most people in the community don’t un-
derstand everything palliative care does, but it’s those home visits, it’s being with people at the time they most need it and supporting families as they’re going through something so tragic as losing someone over a period of time. “We’re announcing an extra $2 million to ensure they can run all their services and have everything operational here in Narre Warren, so that people from the south east who need their services most have access to it when they need it.” Melbourne’s outer south east is one of the fastest growing population corridors in the state with more than 650,000 people already living within South East Palliative Care’s service area. Expected growth is between 50 to 80 per cent over the next two decades.
SD3 Frontline Tactical Unit (FTU) members intercepted a purple Ford Falcon with a suspended P-plater behind the wheel. Police detected the vehicle travelling on Brechin Drive in Narre Warren at around 4am on Thursday 3 February. Police checks revealed the 28-year-old Narre Warren man had a suspended licence and was prohibited from driving a high powered vehicle. The driver was not displaying P-plates on the vehicle and tested positive to an illicit drug. The driver’s vehicle was immediately impounded for 30 days and he will appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court at a later date.
Speeding rider 100km/h over A man has been caught speeding on his motorbike 100km/h over the limit on two occasions in Narre Warren. Cardinia Highway Patrol officers observed a red and white Yamaha motorcycle doing roughly 100 km/h over the speed limit twice, in Narre Warren on Wednesday 2 February. Police detected the motorcycle travelling at an alleged speed of 139 km/h on Centre Road, where a 40 km/h road work zone was operating and several workers in the area. Police then located the motorcycle travelling at an alleged speed of 181 km/h on Narre Warren- Cranbourne Road about 2.45pm. The motorcycle was intercepted and immediately impounded at a cost of $1,019 and the rider’s licence was suspended. The rider, a 35-yearold Berwick man was arrested and charged with numerous charges including conduct endangering life and speed related offences.
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STAR NEWS 7
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Berwick Show again goes online
Recent works in installing the retaining wall guard on the rail bridge above Hallam Road.
Station open in May Hallam’s new railway station is due to open by May, the State Government has announced. As part of ongoing works, Hallam Road’s level crossing will be gone in April. It will make way for a rail bridge, which is expected to be used by trains from 22 March. The boom gates have been the site of traffic congestion and near misses for drivers and pedestrians. “We’re getting on with removing this dangerous and congested level crossing in Hallam – which has been the site of 14 near-misses in 10 years – and holds up thousands of commuters every day,” Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said.
“We’re also building a new road bridge and new station as promised – to create safer journeys and ease congestion for motorists as they travel throughout the area.” Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan said the Government was “transforming travel” with safer, more reliable journeys in the South East. In the meantime, the nearby railway station will be closed from 9pm Wednesday 9 March, and Hallam Road closed at the level crossing from 9 March to Saturday 2 April. Buses will replace trains between Dandenong and Pakenham from 9pm 9 March to last service 21 March.
Lots of Living Space Home 70 Avoca Elite
The new station with two entrances and modern facilities will cater for 2200 passengers a day. It includes a forecourt west of Hallam Road, better parking and bike storage, and safer pedestrian and cycling links to the station. It is part of the State Government’s aim to remove all 22 level crossings from the Pakenham line by 2025, and run more frequent trains in the corridor. So far, 10 level crossings have gone. In 2020, Hallam Road was upgraded with extra lanes between Ormond Road and South Gippsland Highway and a reworked intersection at Hallam Road, South Gippsland Highway and Evans Road.
The Berwick Show 2022 has been cancelled, making this the second year in a row the event will be held online. Berwick and District Agricultural and Horticultural Show Society has made the decision to alter the usual show held in February. Many crowd favourite sections will have competitions online including horticulture, poultry, photography, cooking and craft so people can join in the fun from the comfort of their own home. Plans are underway to have some livestock competitions onsite at Akoonah Park without public attendance whilst observing coronavirus restrictions. All horse events usually held in February and March have been cancelled. The show society thanked the community for their understanding and their continued support and said they look forward to having a public event in 2023. The Berwick Show will be held from 9am on Saturday 27 February to 5pm on Sunday 28 February.
The Berwick Show 2022 will be held online.
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
Lib’s steep Hill to climb By Cam Lucadou-Wells With the boldness of youth, Liberal candidate James Moody is undaunted in challenging for the safe Labor seat of Bruce. His chief opponent is sitting federal MP Julian Hill secure on a 14 per cent margin, the seat has been held by the ALP since 1996 and Labor is ahead in national polling. “It’s not impossible,” the 26-year-old Mr Moody says. “We’re going to run hard to get Bruce back into action. If we can achieve that, the rest will fall into place.” Though running in his first election, the Young Liberal state secretary is not short of political experience. He’s been toiling in student and grass-roots politics for eight years, cutting his teeth in federal MP Jason Wood and state MP Brad Battin’s election campaigns. In 2019, Mr Moody launched the group South Eastern Young Liberals as president. He sides with the Liberal Party because it represents people working hard to better their lot in life, and those willing to “get out there and take a bit of a chance”, he says. Born in Noble Park, growing up and going to school in Berwick, Mr Moody says he’s lived in the South East for his whole life. A major motivator for him was that Bruce had been “left behind” during Covid, Mr Moody says. He attacks the State Government for its shutdown of industries and jobs during the Covid pandemic. “I don’t think you’d see such harsh lockdowns if we had a State Liberal Government in Victoria. “These restrictions didn’t have thought for people’s mental health, on young people and people locked up in aged care. “What’s particularly disappointing is that
James Moody’s passion for politics descends from his Argentinian grandparents. 266884 for two years, the local member for Bruce (Mr Hill) didn’t say anything about it and cheered this lockdown on.” Mr Moody concedes – to paraphrase Prime Minister Scott Morrison – that the Liberal-Na-
tionals Federal Government response to Covid has not been “perfect”. The vaccine roll-out had been “perhaps a bit slow out of the blocks”, Mr Moody said. “But when you look at the end result it was
Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS as good as anywhere in the world.” Another ‘success’ was the Federal JobKeeper scheme had kept businesses and jobs alive. The Government did “as well as it could in the circumstances”, he said.
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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NEWS
The struggle of youth through lockdown By Cam Lucadou-Wells Not all young people hold the same political views as 26-year-old Liberal candidate James Moody. But the Covid pandemic showed them how governments impact their lives – and how important their vote is, the Federal candidate for Bruce says. Young people’s jobs – such as in hospitality and tourism - had been disproportionately impacted. There was a strain on mental health, worries about the future. They’d lost what was supposed to be the typical “formative” teen and 20’s experiences - the “best years of their lives”. The times with friends, travel, relationships, 18th birthdays, formals and getting into the workforce. A friend had remarked that they’d lost 20 per cent of their 20’s through lockdown. “They will never get that time back.” Mr Moody said he could be a rare voice for under-30s in Federal Parliament. “You have to be one to understand being one. “They’re your brother’s issues, your family’s issues, your friend’s issues.” Mental health was a big issue amongst the youthful. Support services in school and such as headspace were crucial for “making sure the future is looking brighter and not going back like the last two years”. Federal programs such as Youth Jobs PaTH (Prepare, Trial, Hire) and guaranteed wage subsidies were also key. “Obviously right now it’s a unique time because some businesses are crying out for people. “But going back a little bit, it’s been harder to enter the workforce.” As a high-achieving law graduate, it took
James Moody says young voters will be especially interested in the upcoming Federal election. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
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Mr Moody some time to find something he really wanted to do. “You know the old joke is that to get an entry-level job, you need four years of experience. “Some jobs are easier to enter than others. I have friends who lost jobs in the pandemic who haven’t got work.
“Friends in accounting, finance – even those jobs have been difficult to find. It’s across the board.” The hardships will sharpen younger voters’ interest in the upcoming Federal election, Mr Moody says. “Younger people are very keen to see representation that represents them.” 12522164-HC48-31
“There were mistakes of course but the pandemic was an unprecedented time for everyone. “Expecting perfection in a time like Covid is not going to happen.” Crime and safety, road and rail infrastructure and jobs are his key concerns, accusing Mr Hill of not doing much to keep major companies and jobs from “leaving” Dandenong. “Dandenong used to be the place to do business.” He also wants schools to “get back to basics” and focus on key skills like Maths and English. Like many, his family’s story is a migration story. His politics were influenced by his ‘Tata’ and ‘Nana’ (maternal grandparents) who migrated from Argentina to Hallam in the 1980s. “(My grandfather) instilled in me relatively early what causes nations to regress and go through tough times is the inaction of people to really aim for the good. “For good things to happen, you actually have to go out there are make them happen. “You have to do the work or it won’t be done at all.” His parents were both “stories of the Austalian dream”. His father grew up in an “absolutely working-class background” and setting up his own business. “He worked his butt off to give his family a better life”. In her late teens, his mother migrated from Argentina with her parents and four siblings. She couldn’t speak a word of English but went on to university. Mr Moody gravitated to politics, even while graduating in law with honours and a Masters in international law at Monash University. In the past two years at Mr Wood’s electorate office in Berwick, he’s advised businesses on JobKeeper and other Covid-lockdown relief grants. His tutelage under Mr Wood had been an “unbelievable experience”. He says he saw first hand the “hard work” required to “get things done”.
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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STAR NEWS 11
THE LOWDOWN Q&A
with Transit volunteer Dot O’Neill
Dot is the volunteer coordinator at Transit in Narre Warren. 266326 with rice which my grandchildren tell me is perfect (they then tell me I’m the best cook, but I know otherwise). Where is your dream holiday destination? Right in the middle of outback Australia, right away from civilisation. What were you like as a kid? Quiet and very compliant when I had to be but every now and then the ’black sheep of the family’.
What is your favourite colour and why? Light aqua because for me, it is the most beautiful colour in all the world. If it was in fashion, I would be buying more clothes. Do you consider yourself an extrovert or an introvert? An introvert by nature and I love solace. However I am middle of the road, thoughtful and compassionate and would stand up for what I’m passionate about.
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Women’s monobob The individual version of the traditional team bobsleigh event. The athlete will be required push, drive and break the vehicle where required, while travelling at frighteningly high speeds. Victorian Bree Walker is currently ranked fifth in the world and shapes as Australia’s best hope for a medal. Heats begin Saturday 12 February.
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Short track speed skating mixed relay No one who witnessed it will forget the sheer bedlam as Steven Bradbury crossed the finish line in first place back in 2002 in the individual 1000-metre short-track speed skating final. In Beijing, the chaos intensified as four skaters covered 18 laps of a 111.12-metre long track for the 2000-metre mixed relay. China won gold, ahead of Italy and Hungary.
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Mixed team freestyle skiing aerials Another of the four new mixed events to be held in Beijing. Don’t try this one at home! The halfpipe, slopestyle and moguls are all judged events, where competitors receive a score from judges based on their tricks and skiing form. Each team will have three competitors with at least one from each gender.
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Tell us a fun fact about yourself! I still think like a kid and love playing games with my grandchildren. I certainly don’t see myself as old. What are you most passionate about? My faith in God and social justice. I don’t always attend church but my aim is to live out my Christian values. What do you love about what you do? I love to feel that I can help in any way possible, those people I meet who are struggling financially, socially or emotionally. Who is the best person you’ve worked with? One of the fellow workers at Transit who shares my passion for helping the underprivileged. What is your most memorable moments? Winning my badminton final, driving through the wildflowers around Kalbarri in Western Australia and snorkelling over the coral of the Barrier Reef. What would your last meal be? Chocolate. What was your favourite subject in school? Maths by a long way. What event past or present would you like to witness? The basketball team I coached winning their grand final. What are you currently watching? The Australian Open. Have you had a pet that has made an impact on your life? We have a Jack Russell dog which was stolen from us as a three month old pup. We got him back 11 months later broken, traumatised and extremely timid. He has never got over what happened to him while he was gone. He is just so gentle, faithful and loving and he means the world to us. If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook? My faithful ’non-fail’ sweet and sour chicken
THREE … new Winter Olympics events
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
BUSINESS PROFILE
Dogs are welcome at Lifestyle Meridian. 265554
Doggone delights Homeowners are no longer the only ones who can enjoy beautiful resort-style living at Lifestyle Communities. Thanks to the company’s latest innovation, their furry friends can now be primped, preened, groomed and cleaned in style at free self-service dog wash stations available in all 22 Lifestyle Communities across Melbourne and regional Victoria. Pet owners can wash and groom their precious pooches whenever they want. Each station comes with everything needed to shampoo, condition, blow-dry and flea tick protect pooches in just 10 minutes. Lifestyle is hoping that by introducing the dedicated dog washes, it’s replaced the laundry sink, shower and the garden tap to wash your pet which has always usually meant that the pet owner gets just as bigger wash as well! “At Lifestyle we have always loved pets and have had doggy parking posts outside all our clubhouses since we started nearly 20 years’ ago” said James Kelly, who is the co-founder and managing director. “We have also embraced being pet friendly with dog walking groups, doggy bag posts and wellness events for pets”.
“Within each community we make it truly pet-friendly and focused on providing a community where pets thrive and prosper with their wonderful owners.” For Lifestyle Communities’ homeowners like Michelle, the new dog wash facility is like having a private groomer in the neighbourhood but better, because it’s completely selfservice and free. “My nearest dog wash is 7 km away, so it’s very convenient to have one just two minutes’ walk away,” says Michelle. “Nutmeg (my dog) is into everything and being able to give her a regular bath is fantastic!” The new dog wash stations are just one example of how each lifestyle community caters to the needs and desires of modern working, semi-retired and retired downsizers in search of affordable luxury living in a secure community setting. Each community also features a clubhouse, pool, cinema, gym, pickleball court, bowling green and many other amenities on-site, making every day feel like a holiday. If you’re looking to unlock your dream lifestyle, call 1300 50 55 60 to arrange a tour of one of 22 Lifestyle Communities across Victoria.
By Jamie Salter Up to $10,000 is now available to local community groups as part of a commitment to help those experiencing hardship as a result of gambling. The Lynbrook Hotel has been directed by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation to make an annual cash contribution to the City of Casey as a condition of its gaming licence. This contribution - the Lynbrook Hotel Community Contributions Fund - is for distribution to residents of Lynbrook, Lyndhurst and Hampton Park, as the primary patron catchment of the venue. It has been identified that half of the patrons of the Lynbrook Hotel come from Hampton Park and residents of the area experience higher levels of social and economic hardship. Local community groups and organisations seeking to reduce the harm from Electronic Gaming Machines gambling or support non-gambling activities may apply to cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
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Gambling support for community groups receive a portion of the available funds. The groups will provide social support and mental wellbeing to assist residents and their families with issues associated with gambling-related harm and problem gambling. Problem gambling is characterised by difficulties in limiting money and time spent on gambling which leads to adverse consequences for the gambler. Successful applicants must be based in the City of Casey and be a registered notfor-profit club or community group. Casey’s Electronic Gaming Machines Strategy 2015-2020 includes a long-term commitment to reduce the negative impacts of gambling in Casey. Casey has a total of 913 electronic gaming machines, with 2017 to 2018 combined losses reaching $131.6 million. Applications for the Lynbrook Hotel Community Contributions Fund close on Friday 4 March at 5pm. Applications must be submitted online at bit.ly/3Hzvtm6 Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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STAR NEWS 13
NEWS
Two new schools for Clyde Students in Clyde have kicked off the school year in two brand-new schools after Minister for Education James Merlino officially opened the new Clyde Creek Primary School and Clyde Secondary College on Tuesday 1 February. The new schools will provide places for up to 550 primary students and 1300 secondary students including 100 dedicated places at the secondary college for students with disability. Mr Merlino said that the opening of the new schools was a great development for the south-east. “We’re delivering on our promise to keep pace with our growing city and state, and it’s so exciting to see two new schools opening to make sure families in Clyde have access to a fantastic education throughout their school years,” he said. Clyde Secondary College, led by founding principal Konnie Prades, features world-class, modern classrooms, a performing arts building and a science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) building alongside a dedicated Physical Education building, featuring an indoor multi-sport court. The new school also includes two outdoor hardcourts, a bike shelter and outdoor play and learning areas. As a supported inclusion school, it features wider corridors for wheelchairs, enhanced accessible toilets fitted with hoists, covered walkways and kitchen facilities that cater for students with dietary or medication requirements. The Clyde Creek Primary School campus includes two modern ’learning neighbourhoods’, alongside a third administration and learning building. Led by founding principal Jodie Bray, the new school site also includes a multi-use Performing Arts and Physical Education building, featuring an indoor multisport court, two outdoor hard courts, a sports
Picture: SUPPLIED
Education Minister James Merlino at the opening of Clyde Creek Primary School. 267354 field and playgrounds. Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale made sure to recognise the work of both Ms Prades and Ms Bray for their contributions to establishing the schools. “Thank you to Principals Konnie Prades and Jodie Bray and their respective teams who have done an extraordinary job bringing together and nurturing a whole new school community in these times. “Our Clyde and surrounding communities
are growing and families deserve to have the best educational opportunities and learning environments close to home,” Ms Crugnale said. “These two new schools compliment the wonderful existing schools in the area, with more to come.” As part of the government’s promise to build a kindergarten on or next to every new Victorian primary school, the Eliston Family and Community Centre is located next door to
Clyde Creek Primary, saving families time and helping them ditch the dreaded double dropoff each day. The schools are two of 14 new schools the Labor Government has opened in 2022 as part of its work to deliver 100 new schools by 2026. In the past seven years, the government has invested more than $10.9 billion in building new schools and more than 1,700 school upgrades, creating around 13,500 jobs in construction and associated industries.
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Clyde Secondary Principal Konnie Prades, Jordan Crugnale MP, James Merlino MP, Pauline Richards MP and the Student Leadership Team. 267354
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Rex name shame By Mitchell Clarke Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name. Former Springfield Ward councillor Rex Flannery, who resigned as deputy mayor just days before the State Government sensationally sacked the entire council in February 2020, says the events of the past 12 months are still “eating” him up. He has now officially requested that his name is removed from both a councillor honour board in the customer service centre and a wall plaque in Bunjil Place. “I have never had any involvement into this alleged corruption scandal and therefore I do not wish to have my name associated with past or former councillors who may have brought our City of Casey into disrepute,” he told Star News. “People look at your name and they see that you’re from Casey Council and immediately they put you in that same mould, which couldn’t be further than the truth. “It’s just horrible to have been a councillor in that term. It gives you a sickening feeling in your gut and now I have to live with that.“ Mr Flannery argues his name should never have been placed on the plaque celebrating the $126 million Bunjil development because at the time he didn’t support the project. “I guess I’ve eaten a little bit of humble pie with Bunjil Place. I’ve been able to see the value that place brings to the community but at the time I was against the development and I wasn’t once consulted (about having my name included),” he said. He also claims former ex-ward partner, Sam Aziz, stated to him that he “wished he never had my name added to the plaque”. “That was the only time I agreed with him,” Mr Flannery said. While Mr Flannery hasn’t accused any former councillor of committing wrongdoing, he said anyone found guilty from the IBAC hearing should immediately have their honours stripped. “They need to have their plaques removed
Rex name shame Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.
Final Stage
Rex Flannery, pictured in late 2015, wants his name stripped from council. 148005 from anywhere within the City of Casey ... whether it’s a plaque in the botanical gardens or in Bunjil Place, I want them removed so they have absolutely no recognition anymore,” he said. “They’ve disgraced themselves and they’ve disgraced the council. They’ve taken something away from me that I totally enjoyed. I loved serving the Casey community. I just want some clarity as to what way it’s going to go.” Since his resignation, Mr Flannery has been working in an operating theatre at a local hospital. He said he has every intention to run for council again in 2024.
Bunjil Place. associated with the 2016-20 term.” Casey’s governance manager Rhys Matulis said: “Given the IBAC investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment on that matter. Council has received and will consider Mr Flannery’s request in due course.”
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“I want to get back into serving the community again. I want to run again and I want to get my name back on the honour board for the right reasons. At the moment it’s a dishonour board,” he said. Star News understands Mr Flannery has put forward his request to be heard by the administrators at the next council meeting, slated for Tuesday 2 February.“It’s up to them now but a year later, this is still eating at me. I need closure and this is one way that I can get it,“ he said. “I played no part in any downturn or sacking of the council and I feel it’s my duty to say that I don’t want to be a part of or in any way
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Clyde Creek Primary School Students Xander, Penelope, Indiana. 267354
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
Clyde Secondary Principal Konnie Prades, James Merlino MP, Pauline Richards MP, Jordan Crugnale MP, and the Student Leadership Team. 267354
L- R Christian, Dev, Olivia, Ingrid Stitt MP, Jordan Crugnale MP, James Merlino MP, Pauline Richards MP, Krishna, Mason, Pratha. 267354 cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
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STAR NEWS 15
FOCUS ON … EDUCATION
New year, new school? onsite campus tours cn deliver the best overall picture, but virtual tours can not only deliver insight into the building and facilities, but they can also give the best opportunity to meet and discuss your individual child’s needs with members of the school teaching leadership, as well as hearing directly from our students about their experiences within the school. A tour is a valuable resource as it gives you and your child an idea as to what their potential second home looks and feels like. They also provide information beyond what is available
You are invited to join us to celebrate 100 years of education and history
ING 100 RAT YE B AR E L E
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St Peter’s College is still accepting second round offer applications for Year 7 2023. Campus tours We are looking forward to time when we can welcome prospective parents and students onto our campuses, but in the meantime, we invite you to join one of our virtual campus tours online. Open campus tours are essentially, just as the name suggests, times when schools open their doors, when teachers get to showcase their classrooms, and when students act as guides. It goes without saying that in-person,
in school documentation and on websites. Campus tours are opportunities for parents to ask specifics about educational opportunities, extracurricular programs, pastoral care and community spirit. St Peter’s College principal Chris Black said, “The 21st century learner will need a skill-set of critical thinking, effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively and creativily. St Peter’s College strives to provide opportunities for our students to engage and excel in all of these areas”. Big decisions “When selecting a secondary school for your child, you need to feel confident in not only what that school can deliver in Year 7, but how the school can provide a stimulating learning environment across the six years. Our desire is for students to run excitedly through St Pe-
ter’s College gates to commence their secondary schooling, and walk out at the end of Year 12, with confidence, a sense of purpose, and a feeling of positivity about their future lives,” Mr Black said. “We are a proudly Catholic community with a focus on Christ at the centre of our learning with a strong focus on the development of the whole person, academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually. “St. Peter’s College conducts regular student-led campus tours, onsite when we can, otherwise our virtual tours are a good place to start your research. Book online at stpeters.vic.edu.au/enrolments Limited vacancies exist for enrolments in 2022 and 2023, and the school is accepting Year 7 2024 and 2025 enrolments.
Saturday 12th February 2022 • 11 am – 3pm
Program for the Day: School Tours 11.30 am,12 noon, 12.30 & 1 pm Scones and a Cuppa 11 am - 2 pm Souvenir stall 11.30 am to 2.30 pm Art Show 11 am - 2.45 pm Official Opening of the Centenary Garden 1.30 pm Official naming of The Leonie King STEM Centre 12.30 pm Musician playing 11 am - 2.45 pm
The Peppercorn Tree sits outside the front office. It is over 100 years old and therefore fittingly is part of our 100 year logo.
Cake cutting and singing Happy Birthday 2 pm
32 Somerville Road, Hampton Park
Sign the guest book Upon arrival
100 Years Book launch 11.30 am BBQ 11 am - 2 pm Photo display in PE Centre 11 am - 2.45 pm
Discover St Peter’s with a virtual tour. 12533840-CG06-22
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NEW YEAR, NEW SCHOOL? ACT NOW Act Now!
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2024 & 2025 applications now being accepted. There are some limited vacancies now available for 2022 & 2023 student enrolments STUDENT LED TOURS Are held on Fridays. Your place to attend can be secured via our website home page. Book A Tour icon at www.stpeters.vic.edu.au CONTACT Did you know all of your enrolment requirements can be completed online? Contact our Registrar Mrs Wendy Height through our website Enrolment Enquiries Form or visit our website Enrolments pages that are tailored to guide you through the process of Researching and Applying for enrolment. www.stpeters.vic.edu.au “Developing the skills today to thrive in tomorrow’s world” Our desire is for students to run excitedly through St. Peter’s College gates to commence their Secondary schooling, and walk out at the end of Year 12 with confidence, a sense of purpose, and feeling positive about their lives.
Visit our website www.stpeters.vic.edu.au or Contact College Registrar Ms Wendy Height Ph 5990 7777 16 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … EDUCATION
Hitting vital milestones While every home is different, there is one thing they all parents have in common: the desire to give their children the best possible start in early education. As children grow, they become more curious about the world around them and are driven to learn and explore. “Research shows the first five years are a critical stage of development for children. Each stage of a child’s development is different, and their education journey should reflect this,” says Milestones Early Learning Cranbourne Centre Manager Chelsea Miller. “The Milestones Early Learning program emphasises age-appropriate experiences that lay the foundations for lifelong learning,” she continues. “Our approach begins with a focus on baby sensory play and building secure attachments, so our littlest learners develop the confidence they need to explore. “This is followed by exciting play-based toddler programs featuring opportunities to develop literacy, numeracy, and early socialisation skills. Children aged from 3-years old can join our Kindergarten programs, developing the school readiness skills they need to thrive in primary school. “We want children to grow a love of learning. To do this, we curate stimulating learning activities that actively engage them in their learning.” To learn more about the rich learning opportunities available at Milestones Early Learning Cranbourne or to join the team for a centre open day, get in touch with today. Book a family tour on the website or contact the centre for a free stay-and-play session! Milestones Early Learning Cranbourne is situated at 270 Narre Warren - Cranbourne
Road, Cranbourne East. Website: cranbourne. milestones.com.au Hours: 6:30am - 6:30pm, Monday to Friday. Phone 5996 9066 or email - cranbourne@milestones.com.au
Book a family tour on the website or contact the centre for a free stay-and-play session.
Milestones Early Learning Cranbourne 270 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East
EMPOWERING LEARNERS At Cranbourne Secondary College, we provide a dynamic learning environment that emphasises the importance of community relationships and learning. Our purpose is to provide a challenging and stimulating learning environment where students work independently and collaboratively to support them to take responsibility for their learning. This year we ran a successful induction and transition program to support this vision and purpose.
Baby, toddler & school readiness programs Play-based learning with qualified educators
To support student induction and transitions into and through school, we ensure our practices and programs provide appropriate personal, social and academic supports to promote student engagement and wellbeing. We recognised that students were likely to need additional support to adjust to changes due to ongoing pandemic-related disruptions of moving between remote and flexible and face to face learning in the past. To formalise and respond to this need, we introduced a school wide transition program called Empowering Learners. This program focused on how we learn at Cranbourne Secondary College including, the importance of having a growth mindset, how we can learn with and from each collaboratively, study skills for senior students and visual thinking routines to support learning. The program also included strategies and tools for students to better understand and positively impact their learning data and progress.
Join us for a free Stay & Play session!
For more information and to book your tour: Milestones Cranbourne 1800 CHILD CARE Find us on Facebook
For our new Year 7 cohort the week began with the College’s annual Welcome Breakfast. The student’s and their families were invited into the College to share breakfast to help ease any first day nerves. College Principal, Mr David Caughey addressed the students and their families and welcomed them into the college community as they begin their secondary school journey. By the end of the week Year 7’s had had the opportunity to meet a wide variety of students and staff in different learning environments and experiences but a definite highlight of the week for them was the school wide scavenger hunt facilitated by Urban Quest.
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With a strong start to the beginning of the year, we look forward to all students at Cranbourne Secondary College experiencing success in 2022.
Telephone: (03) 5996 3544 Visit our website: www.cranbourne.vic.edu.au
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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STAR NEWS 17
FOCUS ON … EDUCATION
A safe return to school
Taking enrolments now for 2022 3 & 4 year old kindergarten & children aged 6 weeks to 5 years old 12535520-BL06-22
• Weekly Yoga Classes • Chef on site to prepare international menu • Government funded 3 and 4 year old kindergarten • Architecturally designed outdoor play spaces • Caring, dedicated and professional teachers Secure your child’s place now.
61 Matterhorn Drive, Clyde North • 9212 0240 • Info@kidsonmeridian.com.au
Our schools, classrooms and playgrounds are again filled with energy, enthusiasm, sounds of joy and chatter - new friends being made, old friends back together again. Still in the midst of the global pandemic, we move around with caution and do our best to keep our community safe and open. From early childhood centres to year 12 – we are taking every measure to help protect students and staff. And we collectively thank again and again, our principals and their magnificent teams for their care, dedication and hard work they have put in getting everything ready for day 1 term 1. Four key things will keep our schools safe: high vaccination rates, testing, good ventilation, and workforce strategies. All children aged 5 to 11 are able to get vaccinated at their local GP, Pharmacy or at our State Centres. We also have pop-up clinics at 30 school sites for the whole of community, locally here at Cranbourne West and Fountain Gate Primary Schools with a walk-in clinic for children also at Dandenong Plaza. Schools have also been encouraged to connect in with local GP clinics and community pharmacies to host mini vaccination clinics for their students. Through our Andrews Labor Government $4million grant program, we will see 150 primary schools deliver the vaccine in a familiar and trusted environment for children. In this mix are Ramlegh Park and Clyde Primary Schools. For a full list of available vaccination
Jordan Crugnale’s son Luci proudly showing off his vaccination. centres and to book online please visit: https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/ book-your-vaccine-appointment Our government is also providing masks, 51,000 air purifiers, a pool of staff to cover shortages and 14 million rapid antigen tests for the first four weeks. Six million already delivered in the first week of term. There is also additional testing for our students attending specialist schools. Thank you to the 30 percent of children aged 5 – 11 who have already had one dose. Vaccines are safe. Vaccines protect us. Vaccines save lives. Some things may look a little different this year, but the joy of face-to-face learning will be as wonderful as ever. Stay safe and enjoy the 2022 school year. - Bass MP Jordan Crugnale
Hillcrest Christian College invites parents interested in enrolment, for their children in school years 2023 and 2024, to our Tours.
REGISTRATION ESSENTIAL.
You will hear a presentation from our Head of College, prior to an external tour of our grounds. Registration essential via scanning the QR code; we hope to see you there.
RSVP via scanning the QR code.
Hillcrest Christian College I 500 Soldiers Rd Clyde Nth 3978 I ph. 9702 2144 I www.hillcrest.vic.edu.au 12529488-NG06-22
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
FOCUS ON … EDUCATION
School marks a milestone Hampton Park Primary School turns 100 years old this month. Staff and students believe it is a wonderful time to be part of such a lovely school and look forward to the open day, this Saturday 12 February from 11 am - 3 pm. Events and entertainment include musician Fred Hess, scones and a cuppa, a barbecue, art show display and school tours. The centenary day will also include the launch of a book featuring a collection of memories from past students put together by current teacher Crispian Deacon. Other highlights include the official naming of the Leonie King STEM Centre, the opening of the Century Garden with pathways named after previous staff members and a merchandise stall selling 100 years memorabilia, the school cook book and, of course, the book ‘Student Voices - Memories of Hampton Park Primary School 1922 - 2022’. The school community are looking foward to the day being a celebration of the past 100 years and a chance to acknowledge the long history of their school.
Hampton Park Primary has been educating children for 100 years.
Introducing your
“Developing the skills today to thrive in tomorrow’s world” Welcome to St. Peter’s College. We are a proudly Catholic community with a focus on Christ at the centre of our learning. We have a strong focus on the development of the whole person, academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually. “As a Catholic community, we aspire to lead in faith, guide with love and inspire through learning.” Our learning environment provides students with the opportunity to become the best version of themselves. 21st Century learners will require a skill-set of critical thinking, effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively & creativity. We strive to provide opportunities for our students to engage and excel in all of these areas. Our desire is for students to run excitedly through our gates at Year 7 and walk out completing Year 12, with confidence, a sense of purpose, and a feeling of positivity about their future lives. When selecting a Secondary College parents must feel confident that the school can provide a stimulating learning environment across all six years. This is what you get at St Peter’s College. Guided Campus Tour are held on Friday mornings. Contact our Registrar Mrs Wendy Height. Come join us.
Wayne Haworth One size does not fit all and neither should education. Every student is unique and individual in their interests, passions and learning needs. Here at Hampton Park Secondary College we are committed to embedding an education model that is studentcentred and focused on personalised learning pathways. Our world is rapidly changing, so we must better prepare students. At HPSC, we believe that ‘education should be done with students, rather than to students’. When students are passionately engaged in their education, at their point of need, learning deepens and outcomes improve. Students at Hampton Park Secondary College are offered three programs – Explore (Year 7), Enhance (Years 8-10) and Excel (Year 11- 12) in a vertical learning approach whereby students are grouped according to their passions and learning needs rather than simply by age. We recognise that all students are unique and different with individual interests, and as such we want to provide students with the opportunity to individualise their educational program. We do this by giving control back to students and allowing them to select their classes from over 100 new electives, such as Animation, Medicine and Disease, Planet Earth, Robotics and Snack Attack, Fantastic Beasts, and much more.
12495218-HC22-21
Flexibility and adaptability are skills that have always been of great value to possess. In these pandemic times where unpredictability is the new certainty, these skills have become increasingly valuable. We have learned this lesson, often painfully over the past two years and with the children now back at school, with remote learning now, hopefully, the remotest of possibilities, our challenge is to put this lesson to good effect in our schools. If ever there was a time to recognise the true value of what has historically, and somewhat unfairly been described as “soft skills”, the time is now. Insofar as implications for schools are concerned, when coupled with impact of remote learning and lockdowns on student wellbeing, we have plenty on our collective plates. With this in mind, there is, nonetheless, much cause for optimism. Anecdotal evidence suggests that just being back at school is very therapeutic for most children. I’ve witnessed as much at my school – the positive energy that flows through and across our school, generated in large part by the children is a tonic to behold.
Chris Black
12528473-SN06-22
Henry Grossek
12481026-CG06-21
School Principal
Our innovative, tailor-made approach to learning assists students so that no student is held back, and no one is left behind. Learning is an organic process and by creating optimal conditions for learning, students thrive. To learn more about our individually tailored student programmes, or to book a tour, you can make direct enquiries to Wayne Haworth, Principal, via hampton.park.sc@education.vic.gov.au or by calling 03 8795 9400.
Berwick Lodge Primary School
St Peter’s College
Hampton Park Secondary College
139-145 Mansfield Street, BERWICK Phone 03 9707 1766 www.berwicklodgeps.vic.edu.au
Cranbourne and Clyde North Campuses www.stpeters.vic.edu.au 5990 7777
58-96 Fordholm Rd, HAMPTON PARK VIC 3976 Phone (03) 8795 9400
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hampton.park.sc@edumail.vic.gov.au | hpsc.vic.edu.au Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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STAR NEWS 19
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NEWS
Pet rescue quest By Jamie Salter Petbarn’s Pet Rescue Month aims to find a new home for as many pets as possible throughout the month of February. Petbarn Foundation, the charitable arm of PetBarn, partners with shelters to rehome pets - particularly cats - by moving them from shelters to stores with high foot traffic. The full cost of pet adoption fees are donated to these shelters so they can continue their work supporting animals. This month, Petbarn reached a total of 60,000 lives saved over the past 10 years. Petbarn Foundation manager Janelle Bloxsom said she was extremely proud of reaching the milestone. “The system really works - there’s so many pet lovers, and potential pet lovers, that come in to our store,” she said. “All our animals are fully vaccinated, health checked and desexed so it’s incredible successful.” Petbarn has about 23 adoption partners nationally, from RSPCA to smaller charities. Post-Christmas, the shelters receive a large increase in animal surrenders due to a number of circumstances such as a pet experiencing separation anxiety when their owner returns to work, or as a result of owners not being able to move house with their pet. Ms Bloxsom said February was a big month for surrenders. “The issue is more in line with housing conditions post pandemic as well as financially unexpected veterinary costs lead to surrenders when owners can’t pay for expenses,” she said. “It’s a challenging time for rescues.”
Activist Grace Tame will present in Casey for International Women’s Day. Picture: SUPPLIED, CITY OF CASEY
Grace Tame to speak Petbarn staff Talia Steele and Guy Parker holding kittens available for adoption George and Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Sam. 267854 But just as surrenders are high, so too are adoptions. “With animals now becoming more available and restrictions easing, our adoption centres are receiving adoptions at a very high level,” Ms Bloxsom said. As part of Pet Rescue Month, a brand new initiative has been launched by Petbarn with pet food supplier SavourLife where $200,000 has been donated to rescue 200 puppies and dogs from regional pounds. The dogs will be moved from regional pounds and brought to areas where there is a higher demand for pets, giving them a better
chance of being adopted. Ms Bloxsom said it was a common misconception that animals in pounds and shelters have something wrong with them. “That’s not often the reality of why they’ve been surrendered, and we have animals of all breeds and ages available,” she said. She said people should always think of adopting a pet before selecting a breeder. “When you’re looking to rescue at a Petbarn store or through Adopt a Dog on our website, you know all those rescues are in the best condition for a new home,” she said. “It will change your life and change theirs.”
Why it’s important to Clean Up Australia By Jonty Ralphsmith Online shopping, takeaway food, single-use coffee cups hand sanitiser, disposable face masks and personal protective equipment have one thing in common: the consumption of each product has increased during the pandemic. The packaging and plastics associated with each has polluted the environment and can take a long time to break down, damaging the ecosystem. “Our environment is experiencing the impact of the pandemic,” Clean Up Australia chair Pip Kiernan said in a press release earlier in the week. Clean Up Australia is recommending Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 6 March as a time to reset habits away from those that create waste. “We do need to revert back to those better habits and when we make a positive change
People are encouraged to get involved in Clean Up Australia Day on the back of the the lockdowns. 202143 Picture: SUPPLIED for the environment, collectively that can have a massive impact,” Ms Kiernan told Star News. “We don’t want a few people living sustainably and caring for the environment perfectly, we want millions of people to be doing their bit and what they can do and that’s what will bring about change.” Ms Kiernan further encouraged people to
think about the impact of their habits on the environment. “It’s those small habits repeated that has an impact. Exercise your right to refuse excess packaging -that sends a strong message to the company that is making that product. Seek out products made from recycled products.” We support that idea of a circular economy where you don’t just buy something and it’s single use, it’s keeping those materials circulating - there shouldn’t be any such thing as waste, we should be capturing them and reusing them and repurposing them. Clean Up Australia said that registration numbers are ahead of where they were at the same point last year but are urging people to continue joining to make the event the biggest and best in their 33-year history. You can register at Cleanup.org.au Clean Up is also running a Business Clean Up Day on Tuesday 1 March and a Schools Clean Up Day on Friday 4 March.
Storytime resuming at the libraries By Jonty Ralphsmith The Casey Cardinia Libraries are resuming their regular program with children this February. At Hampton Park Library there will be toddler story time on Tuesdays, baby storytimes on Wednesdays and preschool storytime on Thursdays. Each storytime starts at 11am. At Bunjil Place Library, preschool storytime is on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11am to 11.45am. Baby storytime goes for 35 minutes, starting at 2.15pm on Mondays and Tuesdays and 10am on Wednesdays. Toddler storytime is on Tuesdays at 10.30am and Wednesdays at 2.15pm for 30 minutes. Involvement in story time forms a crucial part in children’s language development according to Hampton Park Library youth services librarian Ann Delahoy. “They interact with the adults and other children,” Ms Delahoy said. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Storytime forms a crucial part of a child’s development. 229665 Picture: JOE MASTROIANNI “It’s good to get them out of the house after Covid-19 - it’s been really nice to get them back on board and they enjoy the variety of being in a new space. “There are hundreds and hundreds of books they can borrow and take home so it’s very good for their development.” The sessions for 0-1 year-olds are sensory focussed: “it involves touching books and getting [the kids] used to the concept of a book and turning the pages over so that’s
where it’s really important that they come and borrow the books and take them home.“ The toddlers and preschoolers participate in singing songs and rhymes and listening to books being read. During the sessions she ran in January, Ms Delahoy noticed the enjoyment the children got from storytime after constant cancellations in the last two years due to Covid-19. “They all seemed to be relieved to be back, they didn’t want to leave they wanted to sit there and be entertained. After I finished my session they were still sitting there so I grabbed another book then another book. We wanted to be in the space together again and enjoy the whole feel of storytime.“ For bookings and more information, visit: events.ccl.vic.gov.au/?fbclid=IwAR2SCinlY BrKeAckuvel3P-gIiVY_TYkRfUffOjWWVNYhv-dUSuvTR3Fyn0 Similar programs are also run at nearby libraries in Pakenham, Endeavour Hills, Cranbourne, Doveton and Emerald. All sessions are run in a Covid-safe manner.
Australian activist Grace Tame is coming to Casey as part of International Women’s Day 2022. Ms Tame is an inspiring young Australian who has spent the last 10 years turning her traumatic childhood experience into advocacy for survivors of child sexual abuse to lead positive change. Determined to stop other children from experiencing similar trauma to her own, the 2021 Australian of the Year will speak at an event hosted by City of Casey as a special guest on Tuesday 22 February. “Her story is an open book and determined to stop other children and young women from experiencing similar trauma to her own. Her presentation will leave you simultaneously inspired and moved to tears,“ City of Casey said. The event will be held in-person at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren from 11am and will also be streamed online. A link to the stream will be provided at registration. Tickets are free but those attending have been asked to register at bit. ly/3gkb3Sl
Author talk to celebrate love of books To celebrate Library Lovers Day, Australian historical fiction author Mary-Anne O’Connor is taking part in an online book talk. The event is hosted by Casey Cardinia Libraries and will have Mary-Anne chat about all things romance and her highly anticipated novel Dressed by Iris, released on February 2. Mary-Anne grew up in Wahroonga in the Bushland Shire of Hornsby-Kuringai, northern Sydney. Her first major novel Gallipoli Street gained critical acclaim and finished at number three for debut novels in Australia in 2015. Since then, she has released six more novels. The free, live author talk will provide an opportunity for listeners to ask Mary-Anne questions at the end of the presentation. The event will be hosted on Zoom on Tuesday 15 February from 7.30pm to 8.30pm with a link delivered via email before commencement. To book, visit events.ccl.vic.gov.au/ event?id=5087 or phone 1800 577 548.
Australian author Mary-Anne O’Connor is discussing her latest novel. 241940 Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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Clyde Coles Express Service Station Corner Grices Road and Cranbourne-Berwick Road Clyde Clyde Village Store 18 Railway Road (Cnr of Oroya Grove) Clyde North Selandra Rise Retirement Village 5 Harmony Chase Clyde North Selandra Community Hub 7-9 Selandra Boulevard Clyde North Selandra Rise Shopping Centre Selandra Boulevard & Linsell Boulevard Clyde North Lifestyle Berwick Waters 10 Skylark Boulevard Cranbourne Cranbourne Library 65 Berwick Cranbourne Road Cranbourne Cranbourne Basketball and Sports Centre 65 Berwick - Cranbourne Road Cranbourne Life Be In It 65 Berwick - Cranbourne Road Cranbourne Coles Express 1120 Cnr Sladen Street & Cemetery Roads Cranbourne Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club 1 Codrington Street Cranbourne BP Service Station 1025-1045 Frankston Cranbourne Road CRANBOURNE
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Cranbourne North Merinda Park Learning & Community Centre 141-147 Endeavour drive Cranbourne North Apco Cranbourne North 315 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road Cranbourne North BP North Cranbourne 399 Narre Warren Cranbourne Road Cranbourne North Woolworths Cranbourne North South Gippsland Hwy & Thompsons Road Cranbourne North Thompson Parkway Newsagency South Gippsland Hwy & Thompsons Road Cranbourne North IGA Supermarket - Eve Estate Shop 1/2-10 William Thwaites Boulevard Cranbourne West Apco Service Station 810 DandenongHastings Road Cranbourne West Coles Cranbourne West Duff Street (Sandhurst Centre) Cranbourne West Green Plaza News and Lotto Duff Street (Sandhurst Centre) Cranbourne West IGA Clarinda Park 85 Everlasting Boulevard Cranbourne West BP Service Station 910 Thompsons Road Hampton Park Shopping Centre 55 Hallam Road Hampton Park Lynbrook Lynbrook Community Centre 2 Lynbrook Boulevard & Harris Street
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Lynbrook Lynbrook Newsagency 75 Lynbrook Boulevard (Lynbrook Village Shopping Centre) Lyndhurst Liberty 210 Dandenong Hastings Road Lyndhurst Caltex 945 Thompsons Road & Lyndhurst Boulevard Lyndhurst Marriot Waters Shopping Centre Thompsons Road & Marriott Boulevard Lyndhurst Subway Restaurant Shop 10-18 Thompsons Road & Marriott Boulevard (Marriot Waters Shopping Centre) Lyndhurst Woolworths Supermarket Thompsons Road & Marriott Boulevard (Marriot Waters Shopping Centre) Narre Warren South Ritchies Amberly Park 245 Ormond Road (Amberly Park Shopping Centre) Narre Warren South Coles 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road (Casey Central Shopping Centre) Narre Warren South Casey News and Lotto Shop 156, 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road (Casey Central Shopping Centre) Skye BP Service Station Western Port Highway & Hall Road
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The City of Casey is currently advertising a proposal to amend the Amstel Golf Course Development Plan. The Development Plan applies to the area of the former Amstel Golf Course, located at 1000 Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne. The proposed amendment removes a planned retirement village and replaces it with standard housing. The draft Development Plan and details on making a submission can be viewed at www.casey.vic.gov.au/amstel-golf-course. For further information, please contact Andrea Echeverry, Strategic Planner, on 9705 5200. The closing date for submissions is 25 February 2022.
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Brock Downie and Matilda. 267381
From left: Emma Quinn with her daughter Mia, Ashley Vancam with her son Lachlan, JUMP! instructor Vanessa Short and Brock Downie with daughter Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Matilda. 267381
Emma Quinn and Mia. 267381
Jumping back into lessons By Marcus Uhe Local swim schools are re-opening for 2022 and are focusing intensely on water safety in an attempt to curb rising drowning statistics. For many children, this term is their first return to swimming in a while, so water safety will feature heavily in their lessons, including jumping into the pool fully clothed as a reminder that accidents can happen even when you’re not wearing your swimmers. JUMP! Swim Schools at locations including Cranbourne West, Pakenham, Berwick, and Pakenham Lakeside will run ‘Water Safety Week’ from 7-11 February, which sees regular lessons converted into safety-focused activity sessions that remind kids what to do if they get in trouble in the water. Lockdowns and restrictions mean that, during the last two years, it’s the least time
many of us have spent around the water due to cancelled swimming lessons, cancelled holidays and other interruptions said JUMP! Swim Schools chief executive Mark Collins. “As a result, the swim skills of many children have dropped as has their general awareness of water safety and what it means to be careful around the water. For parents who haven’t been to the pool or the beach recently with their kids, it may not be apparent yet. “Meanwhile, children’s confidence around water tends to remain high as they expect they can swim just like they could last time they were in the water – but this is not always the case. “Drowning statistics are up according to the latest Royal Life Saving report - 25 children aged 0-4 drowned in 2020/21, a 108 per cent increase on 2019/20. It’s not a number any of us want to experience.”
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ming skill level they were last time they were in the water. It may be that children who were confidently able to stay afloat in the water may now need your assistance. Remember that water accidents don’t always happen when your children are actively swimming and dressed in their bathers – so stay alert. They may be riding their bike along a lake, on a walk near a jetty or boat ramp or playing in a backyard that has a dam. Get kids back to lessons as soon as you can and consult your swim teacher to ensure they’re in the right class for their current skill level (which may be different from their previous level). For more information on JUMP! head to jumpswimschools.com.au/
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Brock Downie has been taking his daughter Matilda learn to lessons at JUMP! Pakenham for the last two years between Covid-19 enforced pauses. He said Matilda can already put her lessons into action away from her classes. “Mum’s got a pool and it’s nice knowing that she (Matilda) knows what do to,” Mr Downie said. “She already knows that if she falls in, to turn around and go straight for the wall, just from being here and doing the classes. “She was very happy to come back to swimming.” Simple things Mr Collins says parents can do to ensure their children stay safe until their skills pick up include: Talk to your children actively about water safety and the fact they may need a bit of practice before they’re back to swimming at
Progressive Packaging Company based in Dandenong requires a motivated individual to extend their sales team. Previous experience in the Packaging, HVAC, Insulation or Plastering industries with a proven track record in sales would be essential. You would be required to service existing customers and develop new accounts in the Melbourne Metropolitan area. Above average salary is offered plus a generous commission system. A company car, Laptop and Phone is provided. Interested applicants should supply written resumes and cover letter addressed to General Manager: 3for41@gmail.com
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SPORT
City prove too strong By Lachlan Mitchell
Marc Holt will be back to his brilliant best for Cranbourne this year. 156220
Picture: ROB CAREW
Eagles set to soar By Lachlan Mitchell New beginnings are the flavour of the season at Cranbourne as the Eagles relocate to their new home at the Southern Football League. Cranbourne Coach Steve O’Brien is really embracing the challenge that the new competition and league brings. “It hasn’t really affected us the re-shuffle, it’s a matter of us preparing, we really don’t know much about the opposition and they don’t know a lot about us,” O’Brien said. “Historically we have known our opposition, the ins and outs, we’re going to be blind to it. “But that’s really exciting at the same time, it’s going to make for some really exciting footy.” Not settled in the burgeoning Outer East competition, a string of clubs looked to find new homes, with Cranbourne originally opting to join the Mornington Peninsula Nepean Football League (MPNFL) but those plans were denied. “Unfortunately the Outer East Competition didn’t work for a number of clubs and ourselves, and the reality is if we had stayed there we would have lost so many players,” O’Brien said.
“As a club we would have been in a really bad position. “We had to find a more realistic opportunity going forward and we have found it now. “The footy department has been super impressed with the new league and the communication channels with the Southern Football League.” Cranbourne cult-figure Marc Holt is set to dazzle again with his match-winning ability and his wow factor is sure to bring spectators through the gate. The Eagles expect him to be at his best once again this season. “Holty is Holty, he is always raring to go, he’s just a competitive beast,” O’Brien said. “We just have to get through pre-season, he’s not a young bloke anymore, he’s also fresh, once that siren blows, he’s the most competitive person that I have ever coached. “He was leading the goal kicking before Covid hit and he’s averaging six goals a game. but you don’t lose your class. “Hes been a cult figure for the best part of a dozen years now I reckon, he will go down as one of the greats of local footy there is no doubt about that.” Cranbourne currently has six players training with the Casey Demons including Mitch
White, who is currently the captain, George Grey, Corey Ellison, Jarrod Barker , Nick Russo and Jake Carosella. O’Brien has the belief in his side that they are good enough to mix it with the best, and in turn prove to be really competitive this season. “We know we’re going to be super-competitive this season, our best is good enough and we have some good depth and our reserves were undefeated before Covid hit,” he said. The coaching caper continues to change and move forward at a rate of knots each season, with the understanding and the ability to adapt putting the Eagles in good stead for the season ahead. “We always look to tinker with the game plan every year, and look at what we can do to improve and what suits our side more,” O’Brien said. “The fundamentals of the game don’t change and we make some tweaks. but you never stop tweaking the game plan. My time at the top at VFL was constantly about looking to adapt and change and modify the game plan from season to season.” The Eagles will be looking to get their season off to the best possible start when they take on Springvale Districts on April 2.
Casey’s very own Melbourne City have held off a fast-finishing Newcastle Jets outfit to win 4-2 away from home on Tuesday night. City were bolstered by the return of Mathew Leckie and Jamie Maclaren, who returned after a two-match stint in green and gold in an attempt to help Australia progress to the World Cup in Qatar later this year. After a steady and defensive start from both teams it was French international Florin Berenguer who was first to open the scoring for City just before half-time. Taking a 1-0 lead to the break, the boys in blue continued their form in the second half with a well-guided ball past the keeper to help Melbourne to a 2-0 lead. Maclaren was once again in the action setting up Mathew Leckie for an easy strike, making it 3-0 in a hurry. Newcastle struck back with a penalty after a Scott Galloway foul making the scoreline 3-1. Maclaren was in the thick of the action again with his second goal, a shot from outside the box taking a deflection and sailing past the keeper for his second. City defenders were caught off guard by a late Jets goal the game finishing in a 4-2 win for the Casey boys. Melbourne should be glad with the win in there first match in 10 days after a Covid outbreak caused their previously fixture to be postponed.
Matthew Leckie celebrates with his Melbourne City teammates after scoring against Newcastle on Tuesday night. 267923 Picture: AAP IMAGES
Griffiths relives glory of a home-town Cranbourne Cup By Lachlan Mitchell Long-time Cranbourne trainer Robbie Griffiths was presented at the newly refurbished Cranbourne RSL, aptly renamed Silks, with a commemorative piece by the Cranbourne Turf Club last week after King Magnus won the Cranbourne Cup in November last year. Griffiths was presented the piece alongside his 95-year-old grandfather Don Smith. The win was Griffith’s first Cranbourne Cup and he was honoured to win the biggest race on the local calendar for the first time. “It’s fantastic for me personally being a Cranbourne boy, this year in particular it was the first time being run at a mile. It was the first with my partner Matthew De Kock and it was the first half a million-dollar TAB Cranbourne Cup, it was a very special day, “Griffiths recalled. Griffith’s 95-year-old grandfather, a fellow thoroughbred and greyhound trainer in his own right, was on hand to witness the special occasion. “You can’t beat it, it’s really special,” Smith said. Smith was Griffith’s inspiration for training and getting into the industry and his grandfather also fought in World War II. “I used to go to the races with pop as a cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
young man and I use to ride winners for pop and he always said feed them well and they will do the rest,” Griffiths said with a smile. “Pop’s the oldest RSL member coming here for over 20 years, he’s got pride of place so it’s very special,” Griffiths said. Griffiths and his training partner De Kock are now aiming King Magnus at the lucrative All-Star Mile to be run at Flemington on Saturday 19 March. The upcoming All-Star Mile - with the field voted by the public - is filled with the best horses in the country including Melbourne Cup winner Verry Elleegant. “King Magnus is such a genuine competitor, who always rises to the occasion, although it’s a big challenge, we think he is up for it,” Griffiths said. The winning trainer has only one thing to say about his new golden boy. “Vote for the King to get him in,” he said. Voting for the All-Star Mile closes on Sunday 13 February via allstarmile.com.au. Each proof of vote sent to info@cranbourneturfclub.com.au wins a chance to win a free Cranbourne racing Membership to the end of the season and entry to the All-Star Mile Marquee at Cranbourne on 11 March - and a chance at $250,000.
Robbie Griffiths and his grandfather Don Smith with the commemorative piece presented to Griffiths last week. 267455 Picture: LACHLAN MITCHELL Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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STAR NEWS 25
SPORT
Suave Swans take flight By Tyler Lewis “We probably would be now, yeah”. Currently sitting in sixth and on the cusp of finals cricket, Casey-South Melbourne coach Will Carr has set the bar of expectation, revealing his club would be disappointed if the Swans weren’t to make finals now. Carr’s men were a class above on Saturday against Greenvale Kangaroos. The Swans put the clamps on the Roos in the first dig, restricting the visiting side to just 8/168 from its 50 overs, with a handful of bowlers lowering their season-economy significantly. Left-arm seamer Jackson Fry bowled tightly with 0/15 off his 10 overs, while leg-spinner Ruwantha Kellepotha bowled the Swans to a commanding position with 2/22 from his 10 overs – with a remarkable three maidens. His around the wicket dismissal of Greenvale skipper Matt Harrison was a major highlight for the reigning Wookey Medallist. As the duo have done for several weeks now this season, openers Ashley Chandrasinghe and Luke Manders (a run a ball 30) got the Swans off to a brilliant start. The 47-run stand allowed the Swans to internally bank the win and hunt for the all-important bonus point. Michael Wallace (43 off 53) and Harrish Kannan (22 off 15) upped the tempo, while Chandrasinghe galloped his side home. The unblemished 52 at the weekend is the left-hander’s fourth consecutive half-century. In order to gain the bonus point, the Swans needed to reach the Roos target in 80 per cent of the allocated 50 overs. The home unit did so in 34.3 overs with just three casualties. The win – and bonus point – now has the Swans in sixth position on the ladder, and with each and every win, the Swans ‘belief’ is beginning to simmer. “I think when the result goes your way and
when every (other) result goes your way, it instills a bit more belief,” Carr said. “Internally we know we have been able to – particularly in the last couple of weeks – tick a few more boxes that we hadn’t been. “I just think there is a good feel in the group and there is a bit of belief there, but at the same time we know there is still five rounds to go and with how tight the ladder is, you can lose next week and drop back to tenth. “We’re realistic at where things are at,” he said. While the Swans are a dark-horse in the finals race, many at Casey Fields would admit the rise of this side has come prematurely to what was expected – especially in a white-ball season. However, Carr believes the sides rise through the competition this summer is as a result of the hunger this group possesses, regardless of age. “There is so much upside to the entire playing group, not just the first XI,” he said. “A part of our strategies this year was to bring players into the squad that are going to help develop not only the younger guys, but the experienced guys (too), the balance is really exciting. “They’re a tight-knit group, they play for each other. They’re open to wanting to get better, regardless of what stage of their career. “We have guys that have played 80-100 first XI games and blokes that have just started out, but they all want to get better. “From a coaching point of view, it is terrific to have everyone with that attitude,” Carr said. The Swans will have its biggest test in the run home this weekend when they take on Ringwood. While the Rams have been a bit unpredictable this year, a big battle early on is a certainty, with Ringwood opening bat Tom Rogers carrying his side this year with a whopping 794 runs at 113.
Ruwantha Kellepotha celebrates with teammates after bowling Harrison. 267264 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Cranbourne Turf Club...The inside word from the track There’s been plenty happening at the Cranbourne Turf Club lately. Our summer racing included Christmas racing, Kids Day Out events and a host of nonraceday events for local businesses and clubs. We then worked hard on preparing Tricodes – one of the Club’s premier events and a truly unique event on the racing calendar. Unfortunately it wasn’t to be with the heavens opening up right before race time and stewards declaring that the event could not proceed for safety reasons. STAR NEWS COMMUNITY RACE DAY Since that minor setback, with Tricodes, the CTC has set its sights on running a big community event on Friday 11 March to make up for the lost opportunity. This event follows a seven-week track upgrade and the racing is sure to be hotly contested on an excellent surface. The Star News Community Race Day will feature free entry for emergency services members and the nursing fraternity. We encourage you to bring your kids along to enjoy FREE kids activities including Pony Rides, Jumping Castle, Chair ‘O’ Plane Ride and Kelly Sports. To keep the atmosphere lively we’ll also have great live entertainment on the deck for all to enjoy. Tickets are 10 pre-paid, $15 at the gate and kids get in free. AUTUMN RACING Once racing returns on Friday 11 March the club will be hosting several events in succession. Our Friday night racing is set to be fun with a series of themed nights being planned to utilise our expansive deck. We will also have an additional marquee in place for patrons to utilise should the weather turn. It’s a full-on calendar, but the club is thoroughly looking forward to sharing the following events with the community: 15 March (Tues) Harness Night 27 March (Sun) Harness Night 1 April (Fri) Thoroughbred Night
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26 STAR NEWS
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
Let’s get the local in! Cranbourne Cup winner King Magnus needs your vote to make the field in the $5million All-Star Mile to be run at Flemington on March 19. 267921 Picture: SCOTT BARBOUR/RACING PHOTOS
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Thoroughbred Night Harness Night Thoroughbred Night Harness Night Thoroughbred Night Thoroughbred Night Thoroughbred Night Harness night Thoroughbred Night Thoroughbred Night
JUMPOUTS You might have noticed the quality of our recent jumpouts? The likes of Group-1 superstars Sierra Sue, I’m Thunderstruck, and many more highclass thoroughbreds, has been creating a lot of attention on Racing.com and social media feeds.
The Club is delighted to see these jump outs on a Monday progressing from strength to strength and we hope that they may end up being classed as official trials in the near future. CRANBOURNE TRAINERS The performance of Cranbourne trainers has been astounding over the last few weeks with the following stats giving an indication on the strength of the local industry. CTC trainers produced 21 per cent of Victorian starters and trained exactly the same amount of winners. A total of 31 Cranbourne trainers have entered the winner’s stall, taking home 25 per cent of the prizemoney on offer in Victorian racing. The quantity is also matched with quality, with three group and listed winners being
produced. The star stable of Ciaron Maher and Dave Eustace has settled in beautifully at Cranbourne, producing 11 winners in recent weeks. VOTE FOR THE KING AND WIN There are only a few days left to vote for Cranbourne’s home-town hero, King Magnus, in the All-Star Mile. He currently sits thirteenth in the pecking order, with the top ten being granted automatic entry into the iconic event next month. Like to help our Cranbourne Cup winner and a horse that has captured the local imagination? Vote for King Magnus and send us your proof via info@cranbourneturfclub.com.au to receive a free membership of the Cranbourne Turf Club for the remainder of the calendar year and entry to the exclusive AllStar Mile celebration marquee at our next event on 11 March. Here’s the link to how you can vote. Vote (allstarmile.com.au) THE WATER COOLER The first Group-1 for the year is this Saturday’s C.F Orr Stakes. Cranbourne is represented by the Price/ Kent team with I’m Thunderstruck, who is looking to make further strides following his successful Spring campaign. Other horses looking to target the race are the Maher/Eustace trained Lighthouse and Group-1 winner in the Spring - Sierra Sue for the Busuttin/Young yard. There were a couple of eye-catching performances at this week’s trials. HORSES TO FOLLOW Forgot You – Busuttin/Young’s three-year-old which is being aimed at the Australian Guineas. King Magnus - Looking to the All-Star Mile. Profiteer – Price/Kent’s promising threeyear-old who won its trial and is being aimed at Black Caviar Lightning in a fortnight’s time. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
From left, Gerry Dudink, Sandra Mueller and Allen Skurrie relax before their game.
Lynne Wood has been in great form for Cranbourne this season.
Last-bowl pennant despair CRANBOURNE BOWLS The top side on Saturday went down by just one shot against Heathmont which could have huge consequences for finals hopes. The second and third sides were soundly defeated but the fourth side thrashed Cheltenham by a massive 44 shots. Our Midweek bowls top side had another great win at home this time against Churchill Waverley Golf. This round of bowls ended with a week of wins and losses entering the business end of the pennant season. Side 1 - Division 2 Sec 5 After the highs of last week Cranbourne were faced with fierce opposition and the game was in the balance right down to the last bowl. With three rinks already finished for the day it was down to Cranbourne on the last end to try and pick up three shots to win or two shots to draw. Skip Jammie Corney was already having a good day and was 11 shots up on his rink but had the unenvious task of having to play the last bowl of the day. His team mates waited in anticipation as Jammie put down a great last bowl that gave him the shot but unfortunately he lost the measure to pick up two shots. What a game but what a great disappointment for Cranbourne to be so close yet so far away.
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Skip Jammie Corney and his crew of Joe Byrne, John Stanley and Matt Stevens were in great form and won by 12 shots. Cranbourne 69 (2 points) lost to Heathmont 70 (16 points) Side 2 - Division 2 Sec 6 An 18-shot loss was the difference against Dandenong Club. The standout rink was skip Steve Hickson and his team of Bill Sherriff, Wayne Stevens, and Frank Nedell who won by 11 shots. Cranbourne 74 (3 points) lost to Dandenong Club 92 (15 points) Side 3 - Division 3 Sec 6 Cranbourne was well beaten with a deficit of 28 shots. Skip Tony Collins, and his team of Brian Cad-
Gerry Dudink inspects the head and it’s three shots to Cranbourne. dell, Gwen Scott and Bob Scott, won by two shots. Cranbourne 60 (2 points) lost to Pakenham 88 (16 points) Side 4 - Division 6B Sec 6 (12 a side) A huge win for Cranbourne by 44 shots at home. Skip Allen Skurrie, Sandra Mueller, Kath Dudink and Gerry Dudink won by 22 shots, while skip Rob Sorensen won by 21 shots and Skip Sofio Raiti won by one shot. Cranbourne 84 (16 points) defeated Cheltenham 40 (0 point) Mid-Week Results Side 1 - Division 2 Sec 6 Another win for Cranbourne has this team playing great bowls. Lynne Wood continues
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to play well in both Mid-week and Saturday pennant and she will compete next week in the Ladies State Championships. Cranbourne won by 39 shots and picked up a maximum 16 points. Skip Steve Hickson won by seven shots and Skip Lois Brock won by 10 shots - however it was skip Chris Griffiths and his team of Brian Caddell, Jim Williams and Harry Van Soest who were the big winners with 22 shots up. Cranbourne 84 (16 points) defeated Churchill Waverley Golf 45 (0 points) Side 2 - Division 3 Sec 6 Two teams travelled up to Ferntree Gully with little success. Cranbourne lost by 26 shots on a fast green. Cranbourne 46 (2 points) lost to Ferntree Gully 72 (14 points) Side 3 - Division 3 Sec 7 A big 50-shot win against Berwick and all 16 points was another good day for this in-form team against Berwick. Skip Garry Hunt and his crew of Allen Skurrie, Fritz Helle and Brian Turton won by 31 shots. Skip Peter Colthup won by 13 shots and Skip Yvonne Van Der wees won by six shots. Cranbourne 90 (16 points) defeated Berwick 40 (0 points) Side 4 - Division 4 Sec 6 Not a good day at Ferntree Gully with a loss of 31 shots. Cranbourne 37 (0 point) lost to Ferntree Gully 68 (16 points) - Garry Hunt
Cobras strike a telling blow in West Gippsland cricket By David Nagel Merinda Park (4/199) has once again played a key role in another thrilling game of WGCA Premier Division cricket with the Cobras producing a magnificent run-chase against Carlisle Park (4/198) on Saturday. A sparkling century from gifted lefthander Ravi Kodithuwakku (107) appeared to give the Vikings the upper hand - but a near-200 score was not enough as the plucky Cobras produced the goods to make it an impressive four wins and a tie from their last six games. Kodithuwakku’s knock, which took him to 434 runs and the top of the Premier Division list, was produced with typical assurance, caressing seven fours and bludgeoning three sixes in a 122-ball vigil that had the Cobras searching for answers. Kodithuwakku is having an incredible patch of form, scoring 60 and 76 in his most recent innings against high-class opposition in Pakenham and Kooweerup respectively. The lefty dominated an opening stand of 45 with Dave Nutting (8) before carving out a 111-run partnership with Anurudda Fonseka (53 not out). On a really tough day for bowlers, Jaskaran Singh (2/26) stuck to his guns for the Cobras to become the only trundler in the contest to pick up multiple wickets. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Well done partner, from left, Ravi Kodithuwakku and Anurudda Fonseka shared a 111-run Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS partnership against Merinda Park. 267263 Kodithuwakku’s century looked even more important during the early stages of the Cobras’ run-chase after Daniel McCalman (0) – the number-five ranked batter in the competition – was caught by Nutting off the bowling of Kasun Balasuriya (1/33) with just five runs being etched into the total. But being on the back-foot early didn’t faze the visitors who set about keeping their faint finals hopes alive. Ever-consistent opener Cambell Bryan (41) – who has made double-figures in every game this season – and skipper Dustin Peebles (89) batted with real purpose, orchestrating an 88-run stand that kept the game in the balance. Peebles kicked on after Bryan’s departure,
with partnerships of 37 with Liam Bertrand (21) and 55 with Jordy Bertrand (29 not out) seeing his team to within sight of victory. Peebles crucial innings came to an end with the Cobras still 14 runs short of their target…and with time running out quick! But, in typical Cobras fashion, they left it late with Bertrand – of the Jordy variety – and Josh Phillips (6) leading their team to triumph with just one ball left in the tank. In their last three games the Cobras have chased down 265 against Cranbourne Meadows, survived a last-ball thriller against Clyde – and have now won with just one ball left of the 80 overs. Their remaining draw is tough – with Tooradin, Cardinia, Kooweerup and Paken-
ham to come – but don’t write off the Cobras…their winning spirit in tight finishes could take them a long way. The Cobras travel to Tooradin this week, while the unlucky Vikings will look to chalk up their first win of the season when they host reigning premiers Cardinia. In other games, a maiden century to Zac Chaplin (114) has steered Pakenham (8/210) to a comprehensive victory over Clyde (122). Chaplin and Chris Smith (32) were the main contributors for the Lions, who repelled some tidy bowling from Cougar Dan Lever (3/46). James Close (3/28) and Troy McDermott (3/31) then bowled the Lions to a commanding win. And a vital partnership between Chris Bright (72 not out) and Chris O’Hara (53) has piloted ladder-leader Kooweerup (7/188) to a crucial victory over reigning premiers Cardinia (9/182) at Denhams Road. Their partnership of exactly 100 put the Demons in control and they held on despite some brave batting from Bulls’ skipper Jake Prosser (55), Nathan Volpe (42) and Alex Nooy (33). O’Hara capped off a great game with figures of 3/24 after tea. Cranbourne Meadows forfeited its game against Tooradin due to its playing numbers being affected by Covid. The two teams will share the 12 points. Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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STAR NEWS 27
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Thursday, 10 February, 2022
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