News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 8th December 2022

PAKENHAM OFFICER

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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New era for network

Gardens’ awards hat trick

Kissing classy in the cup

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SPORT

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Healthy finalists in statewide awards

Movie in the park A residential community in Officer hosted their first ‘Movie in the Park’ event over the weekend, bringing residents together for some Christmas joy after years of lockdown-riddled holidays for an outdoor movie experience featuring some very special guests.

The event, held at Hillstowe by AVID Property Group in Officer, hosted a total of 250 residents in their extensive greenspaces, to enjoy a very merry movie as well as a special visit from Santa and his elves.

Story page 5

Emma Vincent and Jimmy Dawe, with dog Chester, enjoyed the movie night.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Mental health aid Each of the 16 one-bedroom self-contained homes includes a main bedroom, built-in wardrobe, bathroom, kitchen and eating area, European laundry, lounge room and outdoor courtyard or balcony.

The new development - part of the Victorian Government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build – is one of three new Haven Foundation residences being built in regional Victoria.

Residents receive Supported Independent Living services for assistance with activities of daily living which are funded by their NDIS packages.

This integrated social housing and support service is a partnership between Mind Australia and community housing provider The Haven Foundation – a subsidiary of Mind.

Mind Australia chief executive Gill Callister

said The Haven Foundation residences have been shown to reduce hospitalisations and homelessness for people with mental health concerns, providing stability and security and recovery focused support.

“These residences enable people with significant long-term mental health issues to lead successful and fulfilling lives in the community,” he said.

12552371-AI23-22

Mind Australia and The Haven Foundation will house up to 16 individuals living with significant mental health and wellbeing concerns in Pakenham by August 2023.

The residence, which is currently under construction, will offer high quality, long-term housing with 24/7 support from Mind Australia’s qualified and experienced staff so residents can live life to the fullest.

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NEWS

Clean bill of health

By Hugh Pearson Cardinia Shire Council is among a group of organisations and individuals to be nominated for the 2022 Victorian Health Promotion Awards.

VicHealth CEO Dr Sandro Demaio praised the work of the finalists who are making a difference across the state.

“The 36 finalists unveiled today have shown incredible commitment to the health and wellbeing of communities across Victoria in the past year,” Dr Demaio said.

“They have all played a big part in enhancing the health and wellbeing of their respective communities across Victoria.”

The shire was nominated for the Leading Health Promotion Research Award, a category acknowledging a Victorian researcher or team that has conducted invaluable health promotion research.

The research by the finalists have contributed to knowledge about what works to prevent chronic disease and improve the health and wellbeing of Victorians.

Cardinia was named as finalists for their work, titled Reimagining for a Food Secure Future in Cardinia Shire.

Their research highlighted household food insecurity across the shire and engaged with residents who have issues accessing food.

Two thousand households participated in the research to assess affordability and also review access to public transport, local healthy food outlets and access to food relief providers.

The research will help inform and guide services and programs delivered by Cardinia council and partners who are committed to the shire’s Liveability Plan and Community Food Strategy.

Other finalists for the category included Bendigo Health for their research, titled Mak-

The fatal crash occurred on a stretch on Wellington Road in Narre Warren East.

248798 Picture: FILE

Call for witnesses

VicHealth CEO Dr Sandro Demaio praised the work of the finalists who are making a difference across the state.

Picture: SUPPLIED ing every consultation count, and Monash University’s research, titled Health4Her. Dr Demaio said the finalists deserve recognition for their “extraordinary work” and he hopes their work will inspire others.

“The 2022 Victorian Health Promotion Awards are the perfect platform to showcase the great work happening in health promotion, and to inspire others to do the same,” Dr Demaio said.

Police are investigating reports wildlife was seen on the road at the site of a fatal collision in Narre Warren East last month.

It is understood four vehicles collided at the intersection of Wellington Road and Dorning Road about 1.20pm on Wednesday, 23 November.

The male driver of one of the vehicles died at the scene.

A man and woman from the second vehicle were airlifted to hospital with serious injuries.

A woman in the third vehicle was treated for minor injuries.

The male driver of the fourth vehicle was not injured.

Investigators are hoping to speak to anyone that was driving in the area at the time as there have been reports of wildlife seen on the road around the time of the collision.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, has dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au

Victoria, you know fire.

Our regions have been hit hard with extreme wet weather over the past few months.

But Victorians know how quickly the conditions can change. Increased rainfall causes vegetation to grow, so there’s more fuel on the ground. It’s important Victorians plan and prepare this fire season.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to vic.gov.au/knowfire Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12580880-MS49-22

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NEWS

Tree tribute to Her Majesty The townships of Pakenham and Officer have paid tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Federal La Trobe MP Jason Wood was in Officer on Sunday 4 December for a tree planting ceremony at the Officer Public Hall.

Dream Harmony was one of the recipients of $15.1 million of grant funding which was made available to eligible groups for community tree planting events.

“It was a privilege to plant a tree in honour of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II at Officer Public Hall,” said La Trobe MP Jason Wood.

“Her Majesty dedicated her life to serving her people and it was wonderful to commemorate The Queen being the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years of service.”

Cardinia Shire councillor Carol Ryan and vice-president of the Young Monarchist League attended the event.

“I look forward to seeing the trees and rose bushes planted flourish,” Mr Wood said.

Founder and president of Dream Harmony, Shoheli Sunjida said the event was a great opportunity to integrate new residents in the shire.

“Cardinia Shire is one of the fastest growing areas in Melbourne and there has been an influx of people from many cultural backgrounds settling in the shire,” Ms Sunjida said.

“Dream Harmony are proud recipients of this grant and we are only too happy to celebrate the life and commitment of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by planting trees and roses

In Pakenham, Federal La Trobe MP Jason Wood was joined by Cardinia Shire deputy mayor Jack Kowarzik, mayor Tammy Radford, councillor Collin Ross and members of the Pakenham Rotary Club.

Picture: HUGH PEARSON in her honour,” Ms Sunjida said.

Mr Wood also made the trip to Pakenham on Tuesday 6 December for the Queen’s Jubilee

project.

He was joined by Cardinia Shire mayor Tammy Radford, deputy mayor Jack Kowarzik,

and councillor Collin Ross.

The Pakenham Rotary Club was also in attendance to support the event.

Formal results closer with preference distributions underway

By Shelby Brooks Preference distributions were being conducted for the seat of Pakenham on Wednesday 7 December.

As of Wednesday 7 December at 12pm, Liberal Pakenham candidate David Farrelly was narrowly ahead of Labor’s Emma Vulin by 90 votes on a two-party preferred count.

But even after preferences are distributed, there may be a recount.

A recount - a re-examination of ballot papers for an electorate - may be ordered when the result is extremely close, but it can only

happen before a result has been declared.

“The VEC head office will monitor the outcome of each election and work with election managers to determine if recounts should take place. If so, the Electoral Act 2002 requires the VEC to provide at least four hours’ notice to candidates and political parties relevant to any recount,” a VEC spokesperson said.

“Any recounts would not take place until after preference distributions occur and prior to formal declarations. It is too early to speculate if a recount would be triggered in any district at this stage.”

David Farrelly enjoyed the Pakenham Carols by Candlelight.

Jordan Crugnale and Emma Vulin meet with new Hastings MP Paul Mercurio.

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Carols on Bentley

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Sunday December 11th - 6.00pm Baptist Church Carpark – 1 Bentley Court, Pakenham Come along and enjoy singing Carols and be entertained with different items.

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Christmas Eve - Service with carols and Christmas Story

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We worship in the Senior Building of Lakeside College on the corner of Portobello Road and Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham pakenhamlakesidechurch.org.au Contact Pastor Eugene Minge

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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STAR NEWS 3

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Narre Warren musician Gary Ellis

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I’m a country western singer and musician and have been all my life. I first recorded commercially in 1956.Since then I’ve released 10 albums and performed at the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

What do you love about what you do?

I’ve loved country music since I was eight years old when I used to turn the radio on in the morning and listen to country music. I love the story in the lyrics. In country, it’s just as much a tale of a story as much as the melody of a music.

Who is the best person you’ve worked with and why?

The best relationships I have had are with my fellow artists and horses. Horses are a very frequent message within the lyrics of country music. I prefer listening to Australian country music artists because I like hearing stories about my land.

What would your last meal be?

Steak and fried eggs.

What is your most memorable moment?

The birth of my first child.

What event past or present would you like to witness?

Johnny Cash in concert.

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

Johnny Cash, Sir Donald Bradman and Scott Morrison.

What are you currently listening to, watching or reading?

Nothing at the moment, just watching the

Country music recording artist Gary Ellis. 307318 news on television but I love a good documentary.

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

Steak and fried eggs.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Sri Lanka. I’ve been many times, but I love the people, the climate and philosophy of the people.

THREE … local charities to donate to this Christmas

1

Windermere Child and Family Services The not-for-profit’s Merry Mission Appeal will support children and families from the South East experiencing extreme disadvantage this Christmas by way of food hampers and new toys.

2

Bk 2 Basics Melbourne The food relief organisation is holding a Christmas Gift Drive with the Amstel Group, accepting donations of gifts to spread some Christmas cheer to local families who are doing it tough.

3

Casey North Community Information and Support Service The Narre Warren-based organisation is taking donations of toys and food for its annual Christmas Appeal.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS What was your first job?

Working in the public service, working with the children’s welfare department.

What are the three most used apps on your phone?

I don’t have a smartphone.

What’s one question that you have always wanted answered?

The wonder of nature. I’ve never been able to find the answer for that.

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel. Taking our busiest train lines through a new tunnel under the city to run more trains to and from our suburbs. The City Loop will also be closed for upgrades.

Buses replace trains in both directions and no City Loop trains City Loop

9pm 2 to 15 January

Flagstaff, Melbourne Central and Parliament stations closed

Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

4 to 13 January

Flinders St to Dandenong

8.30pm to last train, 8 and 12 January

Flinders St to Cranbourne and Pakenham

14 to 27 January

Flinders St to Westall

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au 12580933-ET49-22

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NEWS

Movie in the park connects A residential community in Officer hosted their first ‘Movie in the Park’ event over the weekend, bringing residents together for some Christmas joy after years of lockdown-riddled holidays, for an outdoor movie experience featuring some very special guests.

The event, held at Hillstowe by AVID Property Group in Officer, hosted a total of 250 residents in their extensive greenspaces, to enjoy a very merry movie as well as a special visit from Santa and his elves.

AVID Victoria project director Danny Boubli said he was thrilled to bring the community together for the holiday season.

“Many residents saw the event as a way to kick off their Christmas celebrations and form positive and lasting connections with neighbours. The neighbourhood kids also loved meeting our special guests, Santa and his elves, which was a joy to see,” said Mr Boubli.

“Fostering community spirit is crucial. Although many residents are all settled in, Hillstowe is still growing, and we want newer residents to be able to experience the vibrancy of this neighbourhood.”

After two Christmases were impacted by Covid-19, Mr Boubli said the movie night was designed to support the community to get outdoors and socialising once more.

“Residents who moved in during the pandemic haven’t had many opportunities to connect with their neighbours. Events like these really help to create and support these important local connections.

“I am so excited to see the positive effects in our Hillstowe community, following this wonderful face to face event,” said Mr Boubli.

Hillstowe’s event was held at its Hillstowe Central Park which opened earlier this year, providing residents with an architecturally designed play area and community greenspace.

The Hillstowe ‘Movie in the Park’ night was a free resident event which featured the film Elf on the big screen.

Attendees enjoyed watching the film Elf.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Narre Warren man charged following plea from widow Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following a fatal collision in Berwick on 26 November.

The charges follow an incident in Berwick where a man, who has since been identified as father of three Darrin Pierce, was found injured on the side of the Princes Highway about 12.15am.

It is understood two passengers in a rideshare vehicle noticed the 44-year-old injured in a gutter between Neill and Peel Streets as they were being driven past the area, and raised the alarm.

It is believed Mr Pierce suffered lifethreatening injuries after being struck by a car and was taken to hospital where he later died.

A 31-year-old Narre Warren man has been charged with failure to stop after a collision, failure to render assistance, and regis-

A man has been charged following a fatal collision in Berwick on 26 November. 253041 tered owner failure to disclose the identity of driver. He has been bailed to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 9 December. It

comes after Mr Pierce’s wife Kati last week issued a plea for the driver responsible to come forward.

“You should have stopped and had a look…this is what humans do,” she told reporters from the family’s Berwick home on Sunday 27 November.

“I just live here not long, not very good English, don’t know anything, and I have a four-year-old son and two kids here with me.”

Mrs Pierce said she and Mr Pierce were returning home from a local pub shortly before the incident occurred, but she had walked ahead and arrived home before him.

Earlier in the day, the ardent Collingwood supporter had been celebrating at a business luncheon with the Dandenong Cricket Club, where he had met and posed for photos alongside Collingwood star Dane Swan. Fol-

lowing the tragic news, Dandenong Cricket Club took to Facebook to issue a statement about Mr Pierce, who was a long-time sponsor and supporter of the club through his business Berwick Pest Control.

“The Dandenong Cricket Club are saddened by the news of the passing of longtime sponsor and supporter Darrin Pierce from Berwick Pest Control,” the post read.

“An avid Collingwood supporter Darrin was successful in his bid for the Dane Swann Memorabilia and his smile says it all!

“Darrin also enjoyed his Boxing Day Test and enjoying the day with a mate or two by his side,” the post read.

“From all at Dandenong Cricket Club we pass on our deepest sympathy to his wife Kati and three children and will remember Darrin for his wonderful support and friendship. RIP Darrin.”

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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OPINION

Wash or toss your vegies

LENSCAPE

The EPA has issued a warning to those eager to consume home-grown vegetables from yards that have fallen victim to flooding in recent months, with produce that has come into contact with floodwaters needing to be thoroughly washed or thrown out.

Professor Mark Taylor, EPA chief environmental scientist, warned all floodwaters were considered to be contaminated and that could transfer to your vegetables.

“Some fruit and vegetables will be salvageable simply by washing them, but if your garden was flooded in the recent heavy rain events experienced around the state, if there’s any doubt, we always advise to be cautious and throw them out,” Prof Taylor said.

Professor Taylor said EPA floodwater testing had shown highly variable rates of contamination by location and date of testing, which just heightened the need for caution.

He has advised to not eat leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale and lettuce, or anything that was already damaged before the floods, such as produce with pierced or split skin.

Raw soft fruits, such as berries, should be avoided, as they cannot be washed thoroughly.

They will be considered safe if they are cooked.

Vegetables with protective shells, husks or skins, such as peas and sweet corn, or were immature at the time of the flooding, should be treated with caution.

Prof Taylor recommends thoroughly washing, peeling and cooking them before consuming.

EPA’s soil testing program continues from flood-affected areas with results helping communities with their clean-up efforts.

If you’re from a flood-affected area and would like more information, dial 1300 EPA VIC (1300 372 842) and select #8, or go to bit. ly/3ueyXpn

Racking up the balls at the Akoonah Park Men’s Shed. 311574

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up To Crystal World in Devon Meadows, they’ve been put through the wringer in costs and permits for wanting Rosie the Shark to have a better exhibit. You’d think the council would encourage small business/ tourism. They have a fabulous Crystal collection and dinosaur park.

Thumbs up Funeral Director

To the Pink Hill Hotel in Beaconsfield looking schmick.

...the little things make a difference

Thumbs down

Pakenham

Because I have Covid-19.

190 Princes Highway Ph: 5941 4888

Thumbs down To the disorganised road closures in the Devon Meadows Cannons Creek area.

Cranbourne 6 Brunt Street Ph: 5996 6822

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Assuring personal attention and care at all times for our local community.

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Thumbs up To the deli staff member at Coles who grabbed 708 grams of chicken on her first attempt when I asked for 700! You couldn’t even take off one wing and get closer to the pin.

Thumbs down To B-double drivers who move into the left hand lane while it’s still occupied by a car.

Thumbs up To meeting MasterChef Emelia Jackson at Bunjil Place Library. She was so lovely!

Thumbs up To the Socceroos for their inspiring run at the World Cup.

Thumbs up For the care my son received after having surgery at Dandy hospital last week. The nurses were fantastic.

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Berwick MP Brad Battin will find out on Thursday 8 December if he is the next leader of the Liberal Party, after throwing his hat in the ring for the position as Matthew Guy announced he is stepping down. Here’s what our Facebook readers thought of Mr Battin’s decision.

Ray Purchase: Never confuse ambition and ability.

Noreen Moroney: Brad seems to exhibit both [ambition and ability] to me.

Blanka Rossi: All the best for Brad!

Mathew Grace: Running for or running from?

Rob Sinfield: Don’t touch it - everybody is left wing in Victoria.

New era for network

By Eleanor Wilson

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SOCIALLY SPEAKING

NEWS

Drouin

2 Porter Place Ph: 5625 2571

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Thursday, 8 December, 2022

For years, the Casey Multifaith Network has existed as a pillar of cohesion and unity for a range of spiritual residents throughout the municipality.

Now, Narre Warren’s Kasuni Mendis is hoping to continue this legacy and perhaps breathe some new life into it, too.

Elected as the organisation’s president at its annual general meeting last Thursday, 24 November, Ms Mendis hopes to use her two-year term as president to build upon the network’s reach and community engagement.

“I’ll be looking to refine our direction, look at what our ideals and purposes are and how to move those forward,” she said.

Ms Mendis, who practises Buddhism and comes from a Sinhalese background, has lived in the City of Casey for her entire life, observing the municipality grow both industrially and culturally.

“One of the reasons I love our area and municipality is because of how diverse and broad it is - it’s so unique.

“But we have had issues in the past with that idea of understanding each other and be-

Kasuni Mendis has stepped up to the position of president of Casey Multifaith Network. 311035 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS ing tolerant of each other so to promote and encourage that harmony in the area is really important to me.”

Described as “a collaborative representa-

tion of various religions and faiths committed to working together toward the promotion of peace”, each year the Casey Multi-Faith Network holds community events and information sessions to promote multiculturalism throughout the community.

Last year, the network held a series of events, including a forum on Peace and Harmony for the UN Day of Peace, an Iftar dinner during Ramadan and a forum on Faith in the LGBTIQ+ community with the Casey Rainbow Network.

Outside of Casey Multifaith, Ms Mendis is also the vice-president of the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association.

She will step up to the position after four years as the network’s secretary, taking over the role of president from Adam Sadiqzai, who will continue with the network on its general committee.

Stephen Chew will work alongside Ms Mendis as vice-president, while her former position of secretary has been filled by Jaka Han, with Meha Sivarasa as treasurer.

Mr Sadiqzai will be joined on the general committee by Jobi Petty, Hayat Doughan, Jasbit Singh Suropada and Mohammad Rehmat. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

The freedom - it happened so fast...

You too could quickly fall in love with your new found freedom.

Matthew Guy in Cranbourne in October to announce the Coalition’s plan to extend the Cranbourne Picture: MARCUS UHE line. 302254

Clyde rail fate unclear

By Marcus Uhe Labor’s victory in the state election casts doubt on the future of an extension to the Cranbourne train line, a fact that Travis Mitchell described as “insanity”.

Mr Mitchell has been the conductor of the Restore ‘Rup Rail campaign, which saw a petition tabled to State Parliament thanks to sterling local advocacy on behalf of the expanding community.

At present, residents in Kooweerup need to drive or catch a bus to Pakenham to access metropolitan train services, after the Kooweerup railway station was closed in July 1993.

The Coalition made a $928 million election commitment in October to extend the Cranbourne line to Clyde, with stations to be built at Cranbourne East and Clyde, and the potential to extend to it Kooweerup in the future.

With six road-rail separations eliminating the need for precarious and traffic-inducing level crossings, the service would provide a vital link for the anticipated population of more than 100,000 in Clyde and Clyde North by 2031, according to projections from the City of Casey.

So significant was the proposal that thenopposition leader Matthew Guy made the trip to Cranbourne during the campaign trail for the announcement, in what was the second consecutive campaign in which the Coalition had committed to the project.

The State Government has made considerable improvements on the line in recent years, including a rebuilt station at Merinda Park and the duplication of eight kilometres of track between Cranbourne and Dandenong stations.

Labor did not make a commitment to matching the pledge and re-elected Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards could not confirm there were plans to extend the line.

“I’ll continue to have conversations about what the needs are within the community,” Ms Richards said.

“We have a lot going on. Narre WarrenCranbourne Road is a really substantial project.” pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Mr Mitchell said the election result was “very disappointing”.

“I think it means the corridor to Clyde is going to stay as it is for the next four years,” he said.

“For a place with 40,000 people living in it, it’s insanity when you think about the lack of infrastructure available.”

The petition has the support of Liberal candidate for Bass, Aaron Brown, who is hoping to unseat Labor’s Jordan Crugnale.

But Mr Mitchell won’t let the government of the day determine the future of the campaign.

“We’re going to still keep going full tilt because the campaign isn’t over until the first sleeper is laid down to get to Kooweerup.

“We still believe getting to Clyde and Kooweerup is possible. We’ll engage will all levels of government and get this happening as quick as possible. Whether it means launching another petition next election, we’re weighing up where to go from here but the campaign will keep running.”

The line extension was also a key pillar of the City of Casey’s advocacy campaign ahead of both the federal and state elections this year.

Chair of administrators Noelene Duff said the council looked forward to working with all local state MPs and the elected Victorian Government to deliver on their election commitments, including the upgrade of the intersection at Thompsons Road and BerwickCranbourne Road.

“As we head towards the 2023-24 state and federal budgets, we will continue to advocate for delivery of the projects that were not funded, including the entire Clyde Road Corridor upgrade, Thompsons Road upgrade and extension, Clyde Rail Link, continued improvements to digital and mobile connectivity and local jobs and skills,” Ms Duff said.

“We look forward to working with all our elected MPs from both sides of politics to continue to deliver the infrastructure and services our community needs and deserves.”

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STAR NEWS 7

30 MAR – 02 APR

M A H N E K O PA T Y D A E R U O Y E R A

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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NEWS

Gardens’ awards hat trick

By Marcus Uhe Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria has maintained its status as a class-above in the Victorian tourism sector, after winning a major industry award for the third consecutive year last week.

The organisation won the best Major Tourism Attraction award at the Victorian Tourism Industry Council, enshrining them in the VTIC’s Hall of Fame for their continued and consistent success. Second and third places were awarded to the Melbourne Skydeck and Falls Creek Resort Management, respectively.

“Both gardens offer exceptional experiences that highlight the intersection of art, nature and wellbeing for visitors of all abilities and ages,” the VTIC said in its justification.

“Reinvigorating the program in 2022, new sensitive digital technologies have been developed to enhance the ‘in real life’ gardens and nature experiences.

“After more than two years of heavy restrictions, visitors are now showing a renewed love affair with one of Australia’s most prized tourism attractions.”

Recent upgrades to the Cranbourne facility include an improved visitor centre and cafe, new signage, walking paths, playgrounds and improved accessibility.

RGBV chief executive Tim Entwistle said the accolade reflected the significance of the gardens to the landscape of Melbourne.

“It’s the prize everyone wants to win,” Mr Entwistle said.

“We know we’re a beautiful place and both are places people like.

“I think what it says is the gardens are more than just pretty parks; they’re a tourist attraction that are always part of Melbourne.

“We sit up alongside museums, art galleries, the MCG. The gardens are places like them.

“To be acknowledged that we attract tour-

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria Chief Executive Tim Entwistle accepts the award on behalf of Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.

The award-winning gardens at Cranbourne. ists and bring people in is really exciting.”

The tourism industry was one of the most vulnerable to the circumstances of the pandemic, with lockdowns forcing people to stay indoors and limit their movement as much as possible - not to mention the closure of state and international borders.

Mr Entwistle believes the gardens played a significant role in the recovery of the industry.

“The gardens have never been more important,” he said.

“You can go and be outdoors, and people feel safe and can take families there.

“As an organisation we could keep working in the background on the gardens, but we

Pictures: SUPPLIED missed the people. We could sustain the rest but not having people made you realise how important that was.

“When we reopened, we had people in tears as they came through the gate.”

While the gardens in Melbourne maintain an unassailable advantage with regards to proximity and location to the CBD, the Cranbourne gardens play an important role in their success too. Mr Entwistle believes their quality makes them stand out on the global stage.

“Both are beautiful. Our two, just in terms of their beauty, how interesting, their design, they stand up around the world.

“Walking through the bushland, we’re so

The Red Sand Gardens at Cranbourne. lucky to have the natural bushland as part of these forever.

“There’s so much variety and colour. There’s an Aussie plant for every setting and garden.”

He paid tribute to the wide breadth of people tasked with maintaining the reputation and picturesque scenery across both locations.

“When we had our name called out (at the awards night), I decided we would allow all of us onstage together.

“One of the important things is recognising everyone, not just one person.

“It’s a reflection of staff, volunteers and the Friends group. Every one of them is part of making us a major tourism attraction.”

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

Men’s Shed to the rescue

By Eleanor Wilson For wildlife rescue organisations Locky’s Legacy and Wild Incident Safe Haven (WISH), caring for Australia’s cherished fauna is a round the clock job.

Now, thanks to the Akoonah Park Men’s Shed (APMS), a series of possum boxes will make their jobs a little easier.

APMS president Maury Hall met with WISH’s Sarah and Sheryle Cooke, as well as Locky’s Legacy owner Lyndel Charmers, to present them with a total of 20 boxes to aid in the rescue and rehoming of wild possums that cross their paths.

The Men’s Shed members constucted a series of both ringtail possum boxes and brushtail possum boxes, which are larger in size, from plywood donated from the Vermont Men’s Shed.

Mr Hall said the wood was originally sourced from excess supplies used for caravan flooring.

The boxes give the possums a safe space to be relocated in, Ms Charmers explained.

“It’s a really important part of our wildlife rehabilitation to be able to release them with somewhere to live, because when they’re coming in from such a small age, they haven’t learned from their mum how to build a drey, or how to survive out there so if you’ve got some form of protection, that means we can safely put them up in a tree and give them a chance,” she said.

Ms Charmers runs Locky’s Legacy from her 18-acre property in Upper Pakenham, where she rescues and rehabilitates wombats, kangaroos, echidnas, galahs and cockatoos to name a few.

Mother-daughter duo Sheryle and Sarah Cooke have operated WISH from Berwick for four years.

“I go out and rescue at all hours of the morning and all hours of the night. Last night

Lyndel Charmers, Akoonah Park Men’s Shed president Maury Hall, Sheryle and Sarah Cook with the possum boxes. 310738 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS we went to rescue a wombat that was stuck in a drain,” Sarah said.

“At the moment I’m caring for five roos… they’re on four-hourly feeds six times a day at the moment.

“We get call-outs from Victoria Police, Wildlife Victoria, fire brigades, members of the police…I’m always getting tagged on Facebook as well.”

Sarah estimates she has rescued and cared

for over 100 possums in the last year.

“We’re really grateful that the Men’s Shed have done this...it’s really good to see that the community is behind what we’re doing,” Sheryle said.

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• Environment and climate change • Emergency management • Customer service • Community consultation and communications

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Downsizing made easy When Ian met Debbie and then came Archer...

Tired of endless gardening and home maintenance, it was time for a change! For Ian and Debbie, downsizing was easy. As empty nesters, their once vibrant home felt oversized and vacant, and after decades of alternated night and shift work, Ian and Debbie were embarking on their retirement years. Resembling newlyweds getting to know each other, their new home needed a more suitable design for their future needs. With their family home on the market, they needed somewhere already built and were smitten with the Archer’s ageless front facade and sun-drenched interiors.

“As soon as we saw the Archer, we knew. It just feels like home. Living here is a no-brainer.” they said.

The light-filled, open-plan living area bursts with space following the wide hallway past the cosy study nook. Great accessibility around the kitchen island bench and premium appliances makes cooking a joy. Interiors flow to the entertaining deck inviting rapturous celebrations, and their Shelties love the backyard too!

Blending practicality with style, the Archer makes every day effortlessly special with features like timber-look low-maintenance flooring, LED lighting, thoughtful accessibility, and quiet bedrooms at the back of the home.

“Larger tiles mean less grouting to clean, and the reverse cycle air-con does the whole home!

The cross breezes are amazing, too”, piped Ian. Ian still tinkers away on his workbench in the single garage alongside their car, whilst Debbie shows off her interior design flair indoors.

“Our home looks like a display home! Debbie’s happy to be the Community’s ‘go-to’ person for design inspiration!” Ian said. Ian and Debbie love living in their brand-new home amongst new friends on the same wavelength.

They spend less energy on pesky domestic chores and plan to experience the Canadian Rockies by train! With family nearby and adventures to come, they’re embracing retirement.

Meridian Interior Archer kitchen and dining area.

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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STAR NEWS 11

NEWS

Helping with Lions’ vision

By Marcus Uhe Optometrists across the country are asking the people of Cranbourne to donate their preloved glasses to help communities in need.

New research has found that on average, 75 per cent of Australian households have at least one pair of optical glasses or sunglasses lying around at home that they no longer use, which equates to a whopping 36 million pairs of unused optical glasses or sunglasses across the country that could be used by those in need.

Specsavers Cranbourne Park have set a goal of collecting 200,000 pairs of glasses, which, if placed end to end, could stretch from Cranbourne to Mornington.

Local Cranbourne Park Specsavers retail partner, Dominic Boucher said this time of year was a fantastic time to think about donating glasses.

“We see a huge influx of people wanting to use their health insurance benefits to purchase a new pair of glasses,” Mr Boucher said.

“We’d love to see more people donating their old specs in store so they can benefit people in need.”

In partnership with Lions Recycle for Sight, Specsavers is now into their fourth year of the recycling program, which sees quality glasses and sunglasses being delivered to people in need overseas.

In 2018, Lions Recycle for Sight sent 334,860 pairs of refurbished spectacles to 20 destinations worldwide.

More than one billion people worldwide are living with vision impairment because they do not get the care they need for conditions like short and far sightedness, glaucoma, and cataracts, according to the World Health Organisation.

Additional research shows almost of one in five Aussies - the equivalent of 3.5 million Australians - will be purchasing a new pair of optical or sunglasses this year, adding to the older or pre-loved glasses sitting at home which are perfect for donating.

While some discarded specs will collect dust, as many as one in four, or 4.5 million people, are simply just throwing them in the bin.

“We’ve loved being able to directly work with the community in helping them to recycle their older pairs of glasses,” Mr Boucher said.

“It’s such a great feeling – being able to tangibly see the impact that you’re making.”

All pre-loved glasses that are sent to Lions Recycle for Sight from Specsavers are qual-

Cranbourne Park Specsavers retail partner Dominic Boucher and his team collecting unused glasses at their store. 310949 ity tested, cleaned, categorised and boxed according to prescription.

The best of the glasses collected are provided to charity, while the rest of the glasses are recycled.

Lions Recycle for Sight has been operating since 1998.

Chairman of Lions Recycle for Sight Australia Ken Leonard OAM said the program ensures people in need of spectacles can get access to a pair.

“People who have a need but no financial capacity can get a free pair in their homeland suitable for them,” Mr Leonard said.

“Recently, we sent 40,000 pairs of refur-

bished spectacles to Vietnam.

“What we tend to find is 75 per cent of recycled ones can be refurbished and reused. Of the other 25 per cent, [nearly all of them] have metal frames, and we can then, if unsuitable for refurbishment, we can break them down and recycle the frames, reducing impact on landfill.

“It works.”

Mr Leonard recounted some heartwarming stories of the glasses having real-life benefits for recipients.

“We gave them to some women who do knitting and crochets and were struggling to see. Lo and behold they get glasses for the first time and can see what they’re making.

“A young six-year-old wrote to us and said, ‘I needed a new pair of spectacles. Daddy got me new pair and I want to give mine to another child in need.’”

Over the past four years, Specsavers Australia has donated more than 700,000 pairs in partnership with Lions Recycle for Sight and are hoping to collect another 400,000 by the end of 2022 – heading towards a goal of more than one million pairs of glasses donated only five years since the partnership began.

To head in store to donate any of your own pre-loved glasses, visit Specsavers Cranbourne Park at Shop 129, Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre, High St, Cranbourne, or visit specsavers.com.au/stores for more information.

Shirt’s an icebreaker when it comes to mental health

By Sahar Foladi Chisholm’s manager of engineering, Matthew Baker has started a mental health initiative across the engineering department.

The initiative, called Mental Health Mondays, is where the engineering team wear TradeMutt shirts at the Dandenong campus of Chisholm.

“It gives us that opportunity, the conversation icebreaker, to have that conversation and also shows that we’re invested in our student wellbeing,” Mr Baker said.

Mr Baker saw a student wearing the TradeMutt shirt and started thinking of ways to be involved.

“We train apprentices in metal trade, so fabrication and welding and within one of our workshops, I saw a student with one of the shirts on and I asked him around what it was, why and how.

“He informed me what they are and we did our own research on it and thought it was a fantastic initiative.

“We looked into ways we could be part of it because a big part of what we do is support apprentices through the two to four years they undertake an apprenticeship. We realised it’s vital to look after their mental wellbeing, not just their education,” Mr Baker said.

From being surprised by the shirts to being supportive of the initiative, it’s been a month since Mr Baker’s discovery.

12 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

The TradeMutt shirts support mental health. Matthew Baker, manager of engineering at Chisholm, was inspired to start an initiative in his workplace inspired by the shirts.

Picture: SUPPLIED “They were really on board once we explained what they were and what they meant and so we had a really good uptake of it. We’ve had about 100 per cent staff involvement that

includes not just teachers but administrators and managers.”

This is A Conversation Starter (TIACS) is a not-for-profit mental health support ser-

vice funded by TradeMutt.

“The TIACS literally does that, people go, ‘hey nice shirt’ and it gives the teachers the opportunity to remind them about mental health and their own wellbeing,” Mr Baker said.

Mr Baker has worked with Chisholm for the past seven years and said he has never seen anything like this in Victoria.

“At the moment the engineering department is trialling it but we’re hoping to roll it out to all of the trade areas within Chisholm, and possibly some of the other departments as well,” Mr Baker said.

He also intends to invest in Chisholmbranded TradeMutt shirts in the future and encourage other departments across Chisholm to get involved.

“I had mine on today and went to a managers meeting and had people asking me, ‘what’s with the shirt?’.”

By supporting TradeMutt, the team at Chisholm is also helping TradeMutt fund the mental health support service TIACS. The not-for-profit provides a text and calls service and access to mental health clinicians for free to those who need it.

So far, more than 2900 tradies have received free mental health support through TIACS. Fifty per cent of TradeMutt profits are donated to charity and more than $600,000 in mental health support has been delivered to tradies. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Answer to skills shortage

By Cam Lucadou-Wells An award-winning series of ‘short and sharp’ courses is helping to fill the vast skill shortage gaps in South East manufacturing.

Chisholm Institute was recognised for the initiative with the 2022 Victorian Training and Education – Organisation Award at the Weld Australia’s Excellence Awards on 1 December.

Chisholm engineering manager Matthew Baker said the four-week introductory courses were designed to fill a desperate shortage of welders and computer numerical control (CNC) workers in the South East.

In the Dandenong region alone, despite 20plus per cent youth unemployment, there are 1000 vacancies for entry-level welding jobs.

The federally-funded courses were in close partnership with industry groups South Eastern Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) and Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL).

Both courses were “highly successful” with about 90 per cent of graduates landing a job, Mr Baker said.

During a ‘speed dating’ component, employers selected students for further interviews and placements.

“What we’re looking for is a willingness to learn. Anyone who is open to that lifelong learning process will do well,” Mr Baker said.

“The skills needed can be taught but that willingness and flexibility to undertake different roles and work to achieve their life-long ambition.”

The key to success was the close collaboration between Chisholm and industry, Mr Baker said.

The SEMMA welding course was designed to introduce ‘job-actives’ to basic welding and safety skills, with a view to further training on

the job such as certificates and apprenticeships.

Similarly, the AMTIL course covered the basics of CNC – which uses automated systems to produce parts.

“It’s only beginner level. But it teaches them enough to whet the appetite, with enough safety and prowess to get started.”

Chisholm’s state-funded short courses with the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) were also recognised.

The Ai Group courses were designed to entice an even wider cohort into mechanical engineering, welding and fabrication.

The first year’s intake across the three courses attracted 270 applicants.

Up to 400 could be enrolling in similar Chisholm courses with Ai Group and Jobs Victoria next year.

The Jobs Victoria program, termed the Engineering Project, will recruit, train and place at least 100 jobseekers in fabrication and mechanical engineering.

Over the 12 months, participants earn an income with a minimum 19 hours a week of work while being trained by experts.

Available roles include production welding, machine/process operator and fabrication or mechanical apprenticeships.

Priority applications are encouraged from women aged 45 and over, parents returning to the workforce, youths aged 25 and under, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from multicultural backgrounds and people with disability.

Employers are provided with a Training Wage Subsidy from Jobs Victoria during the mentoring program.

To register your interest, go to chisholm. edu.au/free-tafe-for-priority-courses/jobsvictoria-engineering-project

Matthew Baker (Chisholm), Geoff Crittenden (CEO - Weld Australia), Paul Konig (Chisholm), Avril Switalla (Chisholm) and Sowatt Huynh (Chisholm) with the Weld Australia award.

Robots go head-to-head Students from Casey and across Victoria and NSW gathered at Sydenham’s Copperfield College on Saturday, November 12, for the Victorian State VEX Robotics Championships.

About 50 teams, comprising secondary

and primary pupils, took part in the event.

Students designed and built robots that then competed against each other.

The event aimed to highlight the STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills of students.

Berwick students Mitchell and Matthew. 306898

Hillcrest Year 8 students Elijah and Matthew. 306898

The students built robots that then competed against each other.

Harkaway students Caleb and Zahara. 306898

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Pictures: JOE MASTROIANNI

Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Slow down and observe art

By Eleanor Wilson In a busy, increasingly digital world, it is rare to get the chance to slow down and breathe.

But award-winning choreographer Liesel Zink hopes her new experimental public performance Us And All Of This will do just that.

Launching early next year at three premier arts centres across Victoria, including Narre Warren’s Bunjil Place, the project will incorporate 100 local individuals for a large-scale, sculptural dance work centring reflection, meditation and pause.

Ms Zink said the project provides an opportunity to “move at a beautifully slow pace at a time when the world seems to be speeding up”.

“There have been so many really challenging world events that have happened recently and it brought me to question how we can cope with a really challenging and complex world we live in at the moment,” Ms Zink said.

“This project for me sticks with that, the realisation that we’re better if we do it together and I think this work looks at togetherness at a time when we’ve felt really isolated.”

Commissioned by Arts Centre Melbourne as part of the Betty Amsden Participation program, Us And All Of This will feature at the Arts Centre Melbourne forecourt on 11 March, Bunjil Place on 25 and 26 March and the Geelong Arts Centre on 2 April.

Ms Zink said the concept of the project started a few years ago with her interest in bringing contemporary dance to public spaces.

“I wanted to play with the beauty of us as a collective and us as individuals,” she said.

“I’m trying to work with these 100 bodies to create a big beautiful slow moving sculpture that sees individuals move beyond the individual and work as a whole group.”

Ms Zink, along with dramaturg Martyn Coutts and composer Lawrence English, are

Public dance work Us And All Of This will feature at Bunjil Place in March. currently looking for 100 participants for each venue, varying in age, ethnicity, gender and body type, to make up the large-scale project.

The only prerequisite for participants is that they must be at least 15.

“The participants just need to be open and dance curious, they don’t need to have any experience in dance, everyone is invited to come along and take part in this project.”

Once the participants are chosen, they will attend a series of workshops on the project and will also be guided by Ms Zink during the

Peter Rabbit

Picture: IAN LAIDLAW

45-minute performance.

“For the participants, I hope these rehearsals are a space of rejuvenation and joy and a chance to get back in their bodies,” Ms Zink said.

“We’ve been on 2D screens for a long time, so I hope they can just appreciate being able to stretch and move their bodies in amongst others and enjoy that process, and hopefully take some of the ethos of the work home with them into their everyday lives and maybe share those experiences with others.”

The public is also encouraged to attend one of the three locations to witness the 100 participants weave throughout the space.

Zink is well known for her large-scale public space performances, most significantly ‘The Stance’ which was performed on over 80 dancers in 10 cities worldwide.

‘The Stance’ won the 2017 Australian Dance Award for Outstanding Achievement in Independent Dance.

To sign up to be a participant in the Bunjil Place project, head to bit.ly/3UrrlKO

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Stirring trouble

By Mitchell Clarke

Stirring trouble

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

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

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

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

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

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

The reaction from her neighbours was similar.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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NEWS

Reports of pets neglected

By Marcus Uhe New data from the RSPCA depicts pet owners within the City of Casey in a poor light for the third consecutive year.

The city ranked second for Local Government Areas in Victoria behind Greater Geelong City Council for number of reports made during the 2021-22 financial year, the second year in a row they were among the highest numbers after topping the list in 2019-20.

There were 531 reports made in 2021-22, after 577 and 581 in 2020-21 and 2019-20, respectively.

The ranking was considerably lower per capita, however, ranking 56th of 79 LGAs with 688 reports.

Instances of neglect were the impetus for nearly half of the reports made across the state, meaning community members had made reports based on concerns for animals with a lack of access to food, water, shelter or vet care, according to the RSPCA. Other types of neglect included poor husbandry, lack of appropriate hygiene and insufficient grooming, shearing and farriery for horses.

RSPCA Victoria chief inspector Michael Stagg said by raising awareness of the most prevalent types of animal cruelty, the community could work together to do better for Victoria’s animals.

“For many, the perception of animal cruelty relates to deliberate acts such as beating or wounding, and while this does occur, the data consistently shows the most common form of cruelty is neglect,” Mr Stagg said.

“There are many responsible pet ownership resources available, and we encourage anyone who is the owner or person in charge of animals to be aware of their responsibilities to provide care, or alternatively to seek help from their local council, a veterinarian or animal

Data from the RSPCA ranked the City of Casey second for number of reports of animal cruelty among LGAs in Victoria. welfare organisation.”

While Mr Stagg and the RSPCA acknowledged the current cost of living pressures may impact the ability of some to care for their pets, many Victorians adopted pets during the pandemic, including some as first-time pet owners, who may still require information or support to help them understand how to best care for their animals.

“It is important all pet owners understand the specific needs of their pets in terms of food, water, shelter, grooming and exercise.

“If you are the owner or person in charge of an animal, you have legal and moral obligations to that animal.

“RSPCA Victoria is committed to helping people better care for their pets, however, neglect is against the law and is never accept-

able; therefore, we will hold people to account if they do not meet the required standards of care.”

The City of Casey recommends reporting anyone you believe to be intentionally harming an animal to the RSPCA or the police, as council officers are not authorised to investigate animal cruelty matters.

The Lost Dogs’ Home in Cranbourne welcomes animals that have been surrendered on the basis of owners not being able to adequately look after their animals.

Shelter manager Allie Small said there were some important considerations people should undertake before committing to pet ownership.

“The first one is the availability of time, and making sure owners are providing the enrich-

Picture: FILE

ment the animal needs,” Ms Small said.

“Secondly, there’s the breed of animal, and whether the owner can meet the specific needs of the animal.

“Thirdly, I would recommend they do a budget to work out what the animal costs to adopt or purchase, and the ongoing costs of ownership, such as vet care and food, because all of that adds up over time. People need to assess the type of animal fits their budget.

“Some of the biggest issues people are having is that the cost of looking after pet is more than they expected. A lot of people got a dog during Covid-19 that they may not have thought of having before, and choosing a type of dog around what was available, rather than what suited their lifestyle.”

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STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

Five key elements of a team TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH It is extremely hard being a sole proprietor in business these days and certainly if a business is to grow, it is going to require extra staff which implies teamworking.

Teamworking is required not just in business but in many other walks of life as well (e.g. sports, music, fundraising, etc) and so being an effective team is highly desirable, but what’s the difference between a team and a group of people doing something together?

Here are five key elements that sit at the heart of being a successful team: 1. Clear objective 2. Leadership 3. Trust 4. Competence 5. Balanced team composition Teamworking is required not just in business but in many other walks of life.

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1. Clear objective Every team exists to achieve something and the better that something is defined, the more likely it is the team will succeed. As we have noted in previous articles on goal setting, the goal should be simply stated using the SMART principle (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-specific) and should provide the compelling purpose or reason for the team’s existence. It is a clear goal that guides a team’s actions and activities.

2. Leadership Everyone has a role to play in a team and in many ways the ‘leadership’ role is just one specific instance of these. However, it is

this role that can often make the difference between success and failure since a leader’s role is not only to ensure that everyone is clear on the goal and performs accordingly, but the leader also manages how the team collaborates and works together to produce the outcomes.

3. Trust It is difficult to achieve anything with anyone if trust does not exist, and in teams this is essential. The scope and range of functions that need to be undertaken in business imply that no one can effectively do everything and so trusting that each person plays their part is essential. No high-performance team

exists without trust and with this comes the comfort and security of knowing that you can rely on others to do what they need to in their respective area while you focus on your own responsibilities.

4. Competence As we know, ‘a chain is only as strong as its weakest link’ and so competence in each of the respective roles being exercised will determine how well the objective is achieved overall. In a good team, mutual support will often ensure that if a particular team member is doing it tough, others will step in to help.

5. Balanced team composition While this statement can apply to the skill sets of the team as well, for me this relates more to the nature of the people involved.

We are all wired differently - some may be primarily outcomes or task-focused while others may be more people-oriented. Some people will see the big picture and love to explore ideas whereas others will be great with detail and organisation. A good team involves all sorts and is able to maximise the natural contributions and skills of the different personalities involved.

Ian Ash is the managing director of OrgMent Business Solutions.

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NEWS

Boss facing new charges

By Karen Sweeney, AAP

Connect Logistics manager Simiona Tuteru.

They will argue that the indictment is invalid, or so flawed it will require the prosecutors to once again re-case their argument.

Picture: JAMES ROSS, AAP “We’re just not clear at all how the Crown are putting some aspects,” he said.

Justice Lasry urged Mr Fisher to pay atten-

tion to some of the issues raised by Mr Hallowes sooner rather than later. The case will return to court again on 8 February.

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A Dandenong South-based trucking boss charged over the deaths of four Victoria Police officers will still face trial on the Supreme Court despite the manslaughter charges being dropped.

Connect Logistics manager Simiona Tuteru, 51, was due to stand trial in Victoria’s Supreme Court last month charged over the deaths of the officers in the April 2020 Eastern Freeway collision.

It was alleged he permitted drug-affected driver Mohinder Singh, from Cranbourne, to get behind the wheel of the truck, despite claims he was too tired to drive.

Manslaughter charges were dropped ahead of the trial and replaced with four heavy vehicle charges.

A trial on those charges will go ahead in the Supreme Court, after discussions about whether it should drop back to the County Court.

Prosecutor Matt Fisher was warned by Justice Lex Lasry on Monday about the need to wrap the case up.

“It’s time this matter is brought to a head one way or another,” he said.

Pre-trial hearings are scheduled to begin in mid-February and he urged Mr Fisher to have a final clear version of how the prosecution case has been formulated before then.

“It won’t be a straightforward task. That’s what I said last time and it proved to be insurmountable,” he said.

Tuteru’s barrister David Hallowes SC said there was an application for a permanent stay in the matter. If that is unsuccessful, there will be further applications about the content of the prosecution case.

He described the fresh indictment as dramatically different to previous versions and flawed in many ways.

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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STAR NEWS 17

WHAT’S ON Garfield Christmas Festival Garfield’s annual Christmas Festival is on Friday 16 December 2022. This family-friendly event has plenty of fun for the kids, enjoy live music, food stalls, late-night trading, street markets, and even a visit from Santa, plus much more!

Friday 16 December 5pm to 9.30pm.

·Lang Lang Christmas Carols and Market

Over 50 stalls and entertainment at the Lang Lang Show Grounds.

Friday 9 December 4pm onwards.

·Christmas on the Foreshore

Finally after two years of Covid-19, Christmas on the foreshore is back on, bigger than ever. More food trucks, more carols and entertainment and bigger than ever fireworks. This alcohol-free event is hosted by the Tooradin Foreshore committee of managment, with sponsorship from local businesses and City of Casey.

A gold coin donation is always appreciated.

Starts 6pm, fireworks at 9.45pm Friday 16 December.

·

Narre Warren and District Family History Group meeting A night of fun and frivolity, mark this date in your calendar for a night of fun and laughter. We will be in the Admin Building Conference Room, Cranbourne Complex (enter via Casey Radio), 1/65 Berwick Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne.

Visitors are welcome, the night will commence at 7.30pm.

Wednesday 14 December. This meeting won’t be held on Zoom.

·

Lakeside Market Pakenham The Lakeside Market Pakenham is a Street Food Truck and Handmade Makers Market set by the side of the stunning Lakeside Lake and in the front of the Cardinia Cultural Centre. The market features a choice selection of gourmet food and crink trucks, live music and quality local makers stalls including, fashion, homewares, art, pet products, natural skincare, baked goods, plants and lots more and is dog-friendly.

Sunday 6 December 10am to 2pm.

·Child of the Year - Narre Warren Baby Show

Cooking with the CWA Christmas shortbread demo What says Christmas more than Shortbread?

We are coming back to Narre Warren for what will be an incredible event to be a part of. We are excited to announce we now have a new exciting addition to our events that you will absolutely love. Adults get ready to dance, have fun and make new friendships! We will be searching for our newest King and Queen high title winners and have dozens of trophies, ribbons and prizes to give away. Come along and have some fun while supporting Kids With Cancer Foundation Australia. Bookings: babyshowtime.com.au/event/narre-warren-baby-showchild-of-the-year Friday 16 December 11am-2pm at Toymate Fountain Gate, 23 Brechin Drive, Narre Warren.

·

Come along and get some expert guidance from CWA president Pam Mawson in this cooking demonstration to get your Christmas gifts underway. Bookings are required. If you

Pakenham Masonic Lodge Christmas Dinner Join the Brethren of Pakenham Masonic Lodge for an enjoyable christmas dinner and fellowship. Roast Dinner and Dessert is provided, please bring a savoury/sweet plate to share with table/lodge. Wives/friends/non-Masons very welcome.

Saturday 10 December 7pm Pakenham Masonic Community Centre 31 Bald Hill Rd, Pakenham.

·

Beginners guide to composting Come along to this free workshop and learn the fundamentals of different methods of composting to choose and run a trouble-free com-

require more information, please phone Pakenham Library on (03) 5940 6200.

Pakenham Library Saturday, 10 December 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

·

post at home.

Max, from Pakenham Community Garden will answer all your composting questions and teach you how to trouble shoot any issues you may encounter.

Sunday 11 December 10.30am to 12pm at Pakenham Community Garden.

·

Homeschool Maker’s Market More than 40 stalls with handcrafted presents, children’s performances (piano and violin demonstrations) and raffle tickets with prizes.

Saturday 10 December 11am to 3pm at Gembrook Community House.

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Leave the technical stuff to the professionals - US! Get your FREE business digital health check Contact your advertising representative advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Ph: 03 5945 0666

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18 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Advocating for refugee kids

By Wida Tausif

Wida Tausif.

Local news from Pakenham & Officer...

Find out all the local news for Pakenham & Officer. Pick up the Pakenham Officer Star News from local outlets listed below or subscribe to our digital edition and have it sent to your device each week.

To read all the in depth news, sport and information from across the region buy the Pakenham Gazette from supermarkets, services stations and outlets. Just $2 and worth every cent!

The impact on children’s mental health and wellbeing is significant and these children are exposed to being traumatised by their time in detention, which later in their life can results in a range of negative outcomes.

Therefore, we as educators have an important role of advocating for the rights of the refugee children, so that these children have access to health, education, and social experiences with peers.

- Contributed by Wida Tausif

PAKENHAM OFFIC

ER Thursday, Thursday,24 3 March, 2022

pakenhamnews.starc

ommunity.com.au

Sikhs Pathways plant for girls in service

/pakenhamstarnews

School Belated camps honours presented are back

PAGE 6

PAGE 8

@StarNews_SE

Harmony Berwick Day Showunites returns

40¢ Inc. GST

5-0 Welcome start for withUnited open arms

PAGE 18 11

SPORT

Shift in focus

Show is back on track

Exhibitors, volunteers, sponsors and spectators were Changes are being thrilled to be back made to the Casey at P.B Ronald Reserve Foundation, which Cardinia for klea Pakenham Show the 111th Parsolely as the Cardiniawill potentially be known on Saturday.

Foundation.

Spoiled with sunny The foundation weather, the is making the show was the first to transition to decision a Cardinia-only Covid-19 shutdownsone back since body to strengthen not for in 2020 and profit organisations help 2021. community. in the It was a bumper Director Paul Thomas tainment with plenty day of entersaid the board yet to approve has of high qualthe new direction ity poultry, sheep transform the foundation. that will and exhibits, reminiscent horticulture “Throughout the of the district’s pandemic, like rural roots.

Casey Cardinia Foundation ganisations that director Paul Thomas are philanthropic, most or- says the foundation dation has had the founmay be shifting its little focus to carry out fundraising to no opportunities to Cardinia only. 198803 COVERAGE PAGES - we have continued 16-17 grants process so our the out, but we haven’t funds have been going their own organisation. really had monies ing in because The foundation comJunior Ambassador our fundraising was mainly grants process and currently has an annual through events,” of the Parklea Mr Thomas Pakenham Show is Sheridan Venables per cent of its assets. required to give back four “We took the opportunitysaid. (left) with Senior Ambassador Indi to go strategic review If approved by the Skehan. 271091 over the last couple through a board, the foundation Picture: ROB CAREW years. only give out to Cardinia “The review indicated will based organisations. we need to fund organisation properly Beaconhills College Mr Thomas said the to ensure we’re once the changes fundraise to the Class for VCE Dance.student Ruby Thornton-Mackay has able to proved, the foundation are aplevel we need to, been chosen will and ultimate- at a whole be able to operate to perform at Top ly give out significant new level. funds Picture: SUPPLIED “We will have significantto the community.

“It will mean we support from the Cardinia can make a difference Cardinia Shire.” to organisations through Cardinia Shire our grants process,” Mr Thomas councillor Jack said. said it was important Kowarzik “There was an

By Jonty Ralphsmith to continue to provide Ruby Thornton-Mac the foundation spreading ourselves argument that we were with financial support. too thin and this Casey also recorded training has paid kay’s 13 years of dance outstanding The“By City reinvigorating us in will hone of Casey recorded off, to a smaller territory. the the foundation of the best students being named one who have VCE performing arts students the third we work withofphilanthropist with 5174 – 231 fewer most family incinumber highest can dents Houses criminal offences completed; who undertook “Cardinia than in 2020. the s in the is growing at such Dance inwere VCE Music Investigation, Music Performance, incommunity.

2021 of any we In better news, Victorian 2021. top location for offences “With the a rapid rate so with 5833 offences localcompletion governmentofarea. deception offences, Music Style can concentratethe number occurring in the of criminal this strategic re- cidents view, Ruby has been some significant public order and position, VCE household. offences, it would inThe the City ofon ects thatinreally Criminal and Combe short Stealing selected to perform VET Music Industry, security Casey was sighted to wrap from a motor Statistics can make the Melbourne down 17.2projfoundation.” vehicle was the most at Drama justice procedures Dance, cent from 2020 to a difference up the community.” its released 2021 data on Thursday Agency Recital in per the common 2021.

Centre later this fences. and Theatre Studies. - except drug ofmonth offence, 17 March, revealingCasey as part followed by breach family Caseyjoined Ruby said she was of Top Class The highest number recorded violence order, Cardinia the 19,680 foundation Shire Council Hampton of Excellence, criminal Season ceived offences, of will in 2013 offences only is choosing Park (1868grateful damage,VCE have rebehind Greaterto but cial occurred managed in Cranbourne provide in 2020tocompared Geelong honour make an support to the finan- andCurriculum theft 1453 inthe by theother common assault.

(20,018) withfoundation performing exit as Victorian 1863, followed and they 2021), Narreof Melbourne (1629), (33,597). ate their focus her skills- to based dance and by first for the Warren (2627 in Berwick and undergo changesreevalu- years, solo which Narre with five theWarren In Berwick, total Assessment Authority as 2020, 2123 she in 2021), (VCAA). goal to grow (1533), within (1022) theHampton part ofNarre offences were down Warren Northchoreographed foundation a pointand her extermination Park where to to 2157 (352 Cranbourne it will be able 2475 last 2020, 323 in 2021) for withseason theinsubject The North a decrease in all to (999). year.and Narre Warren South run on its own. offence 11 concerts divisions – crimes against presents also recorded the person, property by decreases in the annual number Read moreof and oncrimes. page 2 Continued page 3

Crime concerns

Dancer takes centre stage

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JASON WOOD MP

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of refugee families and the impacts of detention while being detained for a period of time.

I came to know the traumas these families had faced in the detention.

There are many risk factors for refugee children who are detained, including the harm caused by detention being significantly and identifiably worse for children than adults.

At their ages and stages of development, they are more profoundly affected by being declined basic human rights.

12497982-JW24-21

bring a lot to Australian society.

They have been successful in the arts, sports, media, science and business and volunteering within our communities.

They value the education of their children highly and research has shown that more young refugees’ study than other migrants and people who are born in Australia.

As an Early Childhood Educator, I have engaged with asylum seekers and refugees within the community, which has better informed me

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

12496498-DL22-21

All children deserve a sanctuary.

Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) states children’s rights are human rights.

Under international law, every child regardless of their place of birth, race, religion, gender or socio-economic status is entitled to human rights.

Currently in Australia, Department of Immigration authorities collaborate with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to identify refugees who are in danger or have no future in their initial nation of asylum but cannot return to their country of origin.

Relocating these migrants to a safe nation like Australia is their best chance for survival and security.

Protecting children is a community responsibility.

We either share it or decline it totally.

Depriving vulnerable people of freedom impacts upon everyone, as we are limiting decency and opportunity within our acceptance.

By detaining children of asylum seekers, and classifying them as “illegals”, Australia is stripping them of opportunities to develop positive mental health and by doing so, we are violating children’s and human rights.

These children have hopes and aspirations, however, when there is little hope of being free with in our community, rights are violated, including access to health, education, and play.

As early childhood educators, we are looked to as pillars of our communities and must advocate for the protection of all children.

As Diversity Kids director Meni Tsambouniaris stated, “refugee children and their families are additions to the community and bring strengths, abilities and cultural knowledge”.

They make an important contribution and

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LA TROBE 03 9768 9164 JasonWood.Updates

12517231-SG43-21

Authorised by J.Wood, Liberal Party of Australia, 3/16 Langmore Ln, Berwick VIC 3806.

Pick up your Star News newspaper from these local outlets...

• Officer - The Timber Mill Cafe 4 Cotswold Crescent

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• Pakenham - NewsXpress - Pakenham 99 Main Street

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• Officer - Chelles Soulfood 20/445 Princes Highway

• Pakenham - Pakenham Central Marketplace 50-54 John Street

• Pakenham - Vanille Bistro 116 Main Street

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• Officer - Peake Real Estate Lvl.2, 439 Princes Highway

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A unique tattoo exhibition is being held at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre to celebrate tattoo as an art form.

Pictures: HILTON STONE

Photographer Bronwyn Watson, right, at the exhibition opening.

Art of the tattoo uncovered

By Sahar Foladi A unique tattoo exhibition is being held at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre to celebrate tattoo as an art form.

What was known to be taboo is now a mainstream presence which signals a cultural shift towards acceptance.

Greater Dandenong mayor Eden Foster was at the opening of the exhibition on 29 November.

“There was a time when tattoos were hidden, and now tattoo artists and tattoo parlours are found in every suburb,” Cr Foster said.

“They are thriving businesses, and those adorned with tattoos wear them with pride.

“This exhibition celebrates the artistry of tattoos, and highlights the art form’s acceptance in mainstream society.”

The exhibition highlights the fluidity of creative practice as an art form and showcases the people of the community, their tattoos and the local artists through photography.

The exhibition was put together with tattooed models Elyce Morison and Shane Von Dort, who were photographed by Bronwyn Watson and Tommy Kuo. Ms Watson picked up photography in 2014 when she was in university and as a tattooed person herself, she says she’s been obsessed with it since she was a teenager.

“I grew up listening to punk music, playing video games and I have tattoos myself, so it was cool to see what other people had on their

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skins,” Ms Watson said.

“I just feel like tattoos don’t make up your personality, but it’s sort of an addition to your personality.”

At this modern age, designs are carefully selected to symbolise the unique narratives of individuals to provide a living documentation.

Ms Morison said: “I’ve always loved art, and different forms of it. If it wasn’t for the cost (and pain), I’d be covered.

“I often get asked ‘won’t you regret them

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Greater Dandenong Mayor Eden Foster launched the exhibition.

when you’re older?’. My response, there are a lot of other things I can regret, but this won’t be one of them.”

Meanwhile, Ms Watson said she was very happy and satisfied with the results of the exhibition.

“I was really happy with how it all came together. I really like how my style and Tommy’s style are so different - you’ve got a contrast of different styles.”

The unique art form, presented through new ways, was nerve-wrecking for Ms Watson and achieving that was the highlight for her.

“We do get a bit nervous when you’re portraying someone and making it work with their likeness, you want to make sure that you do a good job and they like the finished product.

“My highlight was seeing my models’ reaction to themselves and their finished artwork, they really liked how they were portrayed.”

Inked is at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, corner of Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong until Friday 27 January.

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STAR NEWS 21

SPORT

Kissinger class in the cup

By David Nagel Champion jockey Damien Oliver has banked his fourth Pakenham Cup after piloting Kissinger to a runaway victory in the $300,000 Listed feature (2500m) at Tynong on Saturday.

Oliver, with previous wins aboard Seductive Belle (1996), Ultra Smug (2000) and Our Voodoo Prince (2015), followed a patient gameplan before exploding down the vast expanse of the Pakenham straight to record a twolength victory. The Lindsey Smith-trained seven-year-old gelding defeated Matt Cumani’s Nobel Heights, with Vegas Knight a neck away in third.

Oliver has built a strong association with Kissinger, riding the son of Tavistock/Berlin Belle to wins in three of his last four starts.

“He’s just gone from strength to strength,” Oliver said post-race.

“I noticed him early in this preparation when l was riding against him and I thought he’s a horse I’d like to get on and managed to get on him.

“We’ve just really clicked - sometimes you just really click with horses and we have, he’s a lovely stayer, got a beautiful attitude and he certainly makes your job a bit easier.”

Oliver said Kissinger eased into the race at the right time after having a beautiful run off the pace.

“I had Milford in front of us and Sound on the outside so I was following a couple of nice horses and he just chimed in at the right time,” he said.

“He’s just progressed really well this horse, he’s a whisker off being four straight which

Damien Oliver holds aloft the spoils after the runaway win of Kissinger. 311010

Damien Oliver claims his fourth Pakenham Cup with a brilliant ride aboard Kissinger. 311010 Pictures: ROB CAREW would have been quite a record so he’s a really nice progressive stayer.”

Talk from the Lindsey Smith camp is that Kissinger may be now set for the $200,000 Listed Bagot Handicap (2800m) at Flemington on New Year’s Day.

“He’s had a pretty long preparation but I’ll leave that up to Lindsey,” Oliver said.

“He knows his horses well but he might be starting to feel the firmer tracks, he’s done a good job to here…he’s earned a good break if that’s the way they’re thinking”

Caitlin McLarn, a representative from the Smith team, suggested a decision on Kissinger’s immediate future would be decided this week.

“The Bagot (Handicap) has been thrown around but he’s won that quite convincingly but I’d say if he pulls up well then Lindsey might head that way,” McLarn said, before praising Oliver for his ride.

“Ollie and this horse are such a good combination; he just works him out perfectly.

“I was pretty confident to be honest, he didn’t want to expose him too early and he gave him a perfect ride and he was just super good to the line.

“He’s been so consistent, he’s been up for nearly a whole year now, he’s just done a great job, he just keeps bouncing back after each run and he’s thriving off his racing.”

Super Sunday is fantastic fun day at Drouin Speedway

By Dean Thompson Drouin Speedway’s second event of the season is sure to entertain motorsport fans when the gates open at 8.30am for an 11am start this Sunday.

Features include the annual Standard Saloon Eliminator Cup where cars change direction and get eliminated at the end of each segment.

Co-headlining is the Unlimited Sedan Lucky 7s series round.

They will be joined by the Junior Standard Saloons, Ladies Standard Saloons and a ‘Remember When, Remember Them’ series round for the Division 2 Hot Rods, the first of three events in Gippsland this summer.

In the Eliminator Cup for Standard Saloons, West Gippsland is well represented as is Latrobe Valley and South Gippsland.

Bunyip’s Jeff Blencowe, Trafalgar East resident Leigh Gooding and Catani resident Mark Miles are all very strong competitors and will go for the win this Sunday.

They will have stiff competition from Chris Miles, Victor Benson from Nar Nar Goon, Andrew Dike from Melbourne’s Southeast, from Andrew Miles and Kacey Ingram from Warragul.

Blencowe won the first feature at the first meeting of the season and is favourite going into the second show of the year.

However, he is only a warm favourite, not a hot favourite, with the calibre of competition of a high standard.

The Unlimited Sedans will compete for the second-round victory for their Lucky 7s series that spreads across Victoria.

The Victorian Champion Johnny Young from Sale hits the track for the first time this season and will face stiff competition from the likes of Trent Susol, Darren Forrest, Peter Cox, Peter Farley and hot shot locals Stan Brown, Daryl Nicolson, and Hans Lovski who will be keen to defend their club’s honour.

Young was very strong last season and is keen to stamp his authority before Christmas.

He is one round behind the others chasing the series point score, having missed Nagambie, so he seriously needs a win this weekend.

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

Corey McDonald is sure to be prominent in the Unlimited Sedans. 311399 Division 2 Hot Rod committee and members have put together a three-round miniseries for themselves to honour and remember past competitors who are gone forever.

The “Remember When, Remember Them’ series starts at Drouin on Sunday with a nice little entry list to kick off the series.

Victoria number three Daniel Angus, Bobby Devine - who set a 10-lap record at Bairnsdale Speedway recently - and Troy Hutchison are just some of the entrants to watch this Sunday.

Junior Standard Saloon competitors will see the winner of Drouin’s first race meeting - Beau Stuchbery - lock horns with Nathan Miles once again.

The Braz brothers, Tom and Jack, are another couple to watch as is Zac Barwise travelling across from Colac as the front runner in the class.

Picture: LOUISE NORMAN-NAPIER/NAPIER PHOTOGRAPHY

Dette Miles, after winning the first Ladies Standard Saloon final of the season at Drouin, is back to try and make it two from two.

She will compete against Maddison Miles, Jemima Borkowski and Erin Mitchell who all have competed strongly at Drouin over the past two seasons.

However, the spanner in the works is two times Victorian champion Trish Dike who is returning to compete at Drouin, a track her father-in-law is still the head scrutineer at.

Elise Halliday was a top-three finisher at Nyora two weekends ago and she looks a likely type to run at the front this season.

Gates open from 8.30am and racing begins from 11am Entry will cost $20 for an adult, aged and invalid Pensioner and Children 12 to 16yrs is $15 and Children under 12 years of age are free.

Junior Standard Saloon racer Beau Stuchbery will be part of the action at Drouin Speedway on Sunday. 311399 Picture: CRAIG MITCHELL/CBM PHOTOGRAPHY A family ticket for two adults and two children aged 12 to 16 will cost $50.

Track is at 140 Main Jindivick Road, Jindivick.General enquiries can be made to 0422 289 133. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Seagulls defence on track

By David Nagel Reigning-champion Tooradin (0/105) is on the verge of putting itself in prime position to defend its CCCA Premier Division crown after a dominant display against perennial finalist Kooweerup (199) at Denhams Road on Saturday.

If the Gulls, as expected, do knock off the 95 runs required for victory, they will strengthen their hold on second place on the ladder by opening up a two-game buffer over the Demons in third place.

With gun-opener Luke McMaster preparing for his engagement party, the Demons sent Ayden Mills (0) into bat with that dangerous weapon in Chris Bright (70).

Mills fell early…as did Gamini Kumara (6) who has struggled to have an impact after a solid start to the season.

From 2/28, Bright and Mitch Davey (43) produced a 73-run partnership that saw the Demons trickle into triple figures for the loss of just two wickets.

Davey then fell, the first of a five-wicket haul to Josh Lownds (5/48 off 16.3), and the Demons slip-sided from there.

Paul Bright (17) then joined his brother for a 33-run stand, the third best of the innings, before the wickets of Jess Mathers (1) and Chris Bright put the Seagulls in the box seat.

Mathers, and Bright in particular, can score quickly and the Gulls would never have felt entirely comfortable until those two were back in the sheds.

Giles (23 not out) and number-11 John Bright (22) – who scored 144 in D Grade last week – put on 34 for the last wicket to give the Demons some hope…with 29 overs left to bowl.

Lownds was the star performer for the Gulls, bagging five scalps, while Russ Lehman (2/52) and Brad Butler (2/44 off 6.3) grabbed two each.

Tooradin then marched to the conclusion of play in grand style, being 0/105 when stumps were drawn.

Lownds (57 not out) capped off a great day with a stylish unbeaten half-century, while skipper Cal O’Hare will resume this week on 29 not out.

Pakenham’s Tommy Tyrrell goes on the charge against the Bulls. 311014 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Lehman retired hurt on 16.

An under-exposed mid-to-lower order has failed to fire for Pakenham (126) who was rolled cheaply by Cardinia (1/17) at Gunton Oval.

Heading in, the Lions had lost just 18 wickets for the season; a staggering 21 less than the next best team in that regard in Tooradin.

That statistical advantage has played a huge part in the Lions being well clear at the top of the ladder, but it’s hardly the ideal preparation for those enjoying the view from the sidelines.

Jack Anning (4), Rob Elston (1), Dale Tormey (21) and Jason Williams (37) have carried the can this season, but others were required to pull their weight on the weekend for the first time.

And not surprisingly they failed.

Stephen Insall (29) crafted a nice stay through the middle order, and Tommy Tyrrell (14) occupied the crease for 50 balls, but the Lions were in trouble when the big four were un-padded with just 71 runs on the board.

The Bulls who have now had three terrific weeks in succession.

They made 270 against Kooweerup, and then held the Demons to 9/227, and this day-one performance against the Lions has set them up perfectly for back-to-back wins against quality opposition.

The Bulls appear to be back!

Dean Henwood (11-6-3-9) got the ball rolling with a super-spell of right-arm mediumfast bowling.

Henwood had Anning caught by Nathan Volpe, before trapping Elston in front, leaving Lions running for the sheds at 2/9.

Tormey and Williams re-built the innings somewhat, but when Travis Wheller (14-2-334) had Tormey caught, once again by Volpe, the Bulls had claimed the most crucial of breakthroughs.

Wheller then snuck one through the defences of Williams, rapping him on the pads, before Sean Gramc (0) was in and out in a hurry courtesy of Bulls’ skipper Jake Prosser (16-8-1-22).

Insall and Tyrrell tried their best to rally, putting on 35 for the seventh-wicket, before the tail faded fast.

Morteza Ali (7-3-2-5) took the wickets of Insall and Tyrrell in the post-tea session.

But the gloss on Ali’s day was soon dulled, with the Bulls’ recruit being the only victim of the home sides’ eight-over visit to the crease.

Ali (6) tickled Tyrrell (1/14) through to Elston to give the Lions some hope heading into day two.

A dashing century from Shalika Karunanayake (126) has propelled Carlisle Park (263) into

a commanding position in its bottom-of-thetable clash with Clyde.

Karunanayake, who had scored just 79 runs in six previous Premier Division innings with a top score of 22, played a magnificent knock in just over two-and-a-half hours at the crease.

Batting at four, he shared a phenomenal 162-run partnership with opener Mahie Bodahandi (59) that launched the Vikings to their biggest score of the season.

Karunanayake came to the crease with the Vikings in all sorts of trouble at 2/14, after the Cougars well-performing bowlers in Nick Miles (18-6-3-39) and Max Adams (12-1-2-31) had made early inroads.

Miles crashed into the stumps of Ethan Davies (0) before Adams did it all with the caughtand-bowled dismissal of last week’s hero Ben Perry (7).

But Karunanayake and Bodahandi wasted little time in taking the game away from the Cougars, with Karunanayake the aggressor and Bodahandi taking a more cautious approach to his innings.

Karunanayake went better than a run a ball, crashing 19 balls to the boundary, and three over the ropes, in a 118-ball vigil of epic proportions.

Karunanayake made 126 of the 162-run partnership with Bodahandi, who had the best front-row seat in the house.

Bodahandi and his former Kooweerup teammate Videsh Dassanayake (23) then piloted the Vikings beyond 200 before Aaron Straughair (20) cashed in late.

Miles and Adams stuck to their guns for the Cougars, while spinner Daniel Lever (3/76) and speedster Nera Wanniarachchi (2/42) also claimed multiple wickets.

And Officer (0/10) and Merinda Park (208) engaged in an absorbing battle at Starling Road on Saturday.

Only one run separated the teams the last time they met…and we could be heading in the same direction this time.

Cambell Bryan (59), Sas Perera (32), Liam Bertrand (29) and Dan McCalman (28) were best for the Cobras, while Leigh Boyle (4/46), Noah Parraga (2/36) and brave-heart Cooper Pursell 2/77 off 25.2) gave their all for the Bullants.

Champions crowned at Cardinia Waters Bowls Club CARDINIA WATERS – CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS Ray Naylor and Kerry Lewis have been crowned singles champions at Cardinia Waters Bowls Club after the men’s and women’s singles finals were played in warm, sunny conditions on Sunday.

In the women’s event, Lewis was up against last year’s winner Del Dance.

Both ladies played good bowls, but the form player was Kerry, who powered away to a comfortable win.

Kerry now has emulated her husband Keith, who won the men’s event last year.

After standing out of bowls last year through illness it was very satisfying to see Kerry back bowling this season, and finding

good form as well.

In the men’s event, the doyen of bowling John Van Vugt was up against his pennant teammate Naylor.

Van Vugt has won more bowls trophies than he can count over an illustrious career spanning many decades.

Despite his age he still plays bowls most days of the week.

However Naylor, who normally plays third to the master bowler, was in impeccable form on Sunday, and took control of the game early.

He maintained his lead for a comfortable 25-14 victory.

Ray previously won this event in 2020.

-John Moore

Kerry Lewis and Ray Naylor are proud winners of their respective club championships at Pictures: SUPPLIED Cardinia Waters Bowls Club. 311208

Getting down for a measure is the eventual winner Ray Naylor. He defeated John Van Vugt in an entertaining game on Sunday.

Reigning champion Del Dance finished runnerup to Kerry Lewis in the women’s singles final.

Showing the form that won him the Men’s Singles title at Cardinia Waters Bowls Club is Ray Naylor.

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Shaking hands after a great game of lawn bowls are, from left, John Van Vugt and Ray Naylor.

Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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STAR NEWS 23

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Thursday, 8 December, 2022

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