News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 2nd February 2023

PAKENHAM OFFICER

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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SPORT

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Trail bike clamp down

Preppies all smiles for big first day Foundation students across the state experienced school life for the first time this week as Term 1 began.

Pakenham Consolidated Primary School principal Katrina Stewart said the first day back at school on Monday 30 January was “fabulous“.

“All of our students settled into their classrooms and spent the day getting to know their teacher and classmates,“ she said.

Story and photos page 7

Briana and Oscar on their first day at Pakenham Consolidated Primary School.

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Delays ramp up FIXED PRICE CONVEYANCING • CONTESTING A WILL WILLS AND POWERS OF ATTORNEY PROBATE AND LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION

OPEN FOR BUSINESS !

Now in office consultations Online Consults still available Pakenham, Narre Warren and Yarra Junction Offices | P 5941 5166

freeway to allow the ramps to open safely to the public.“ The spokesperson said they understood the process had been frustrating for the local community.

“We greatly appreciate the patience of the Arcadia and broader local community,“ they said.

They said the latest update Satterley received from the Department of Transport (30 January) was that the ramps would open on Tuesday 7 February. However, this was subject to the completion of the Department of Trans-

Low Dose CT, Digital X-ray, Comprehensive Ultrasound, Dental X-ray, Dexa or Bone Densitometry, Echocardiogram

port’s asphalting works on the freeway.

A Cardinia Shire spokesperson said council was continuing to advocate to have the ramps opened as soon as possible.

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said the final stage of the works were underway, with asphalting work to be completed in coming weeks, weather permitting.

“We thank motorists for their patience while we complete this important work and open the ramps as quickly as possible,“ they said.

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stakeholder groups involved in the design and delivery of the asset over the last four years.

“Similar to what the industry has seen, we have experienced significant delays caused by the effects of Covid-19 and wet weather conditions.

“All of Satterley’s scope is complete, and the opening of the ramps is at the Department of Transport’s discretion, of which Satterley has no control.

“The Department of Transport is currently waiting on one of its appointed civil contractors to complete some asphalting works on the 12588394-AI05-23

Officer commuters are still waiting for freeway entrance ramps to open, despite project timelines stating they would be ready to use in late 2022.

Construction of new inbound and outbound freeway ramps at Officer South Road are now set to be open 7 February.

Residential land developer Satterley is delivering the project for Cardinia Shire Council, according to the Cardinia Shire website.

A spokesperson for Satterley said the Princes Freeway/Officer South Road project had been a significant undertaking, with almost 40

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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NEWS

‘Punitive’ bail reform call

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A South East community legal service says women and Aboriginal people have suffered disproportionately due to Victoria’s “punitive” bail laws.

South-East Monash Legal Service (SMLS) is among many calling for Bail Act reform, including State Coroner Simon McGregor who labelled the laws a “complete and unmitigated disaster”.

On 30 January, Coroner McGregor handed down damning findings into the “harrowing” and “preventable” death of 37-year-old Veronica Nelson in a prison cell after being arrested for alleged shoplifting.

“Veronica, while alone in her cell at the Dame Phyllis Frost centre, passed away after begging for assistance for several of the last hours of her life.”

In a statement SMLS said there had been “exceptional growth” in unsentenced women being held in prison since tougher bail laws in 2013 and 2018.

Many did not “pose a risk to the community” and more likely to have committed “low-level offences”.

Their incarceration also led to the “harmful consequences” of their children often being placed in child protection.

There had also been a “dramatic increase” in Aboriginal people in prison who had not been sentenced.

“This is the opposite of what the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody recommended, over thirty years ago”.

Aboriginal women are the fastest-growing demographic of being held in custody without sentence. “Many of these women are victim-survivors of family violence and mothers.They need support, not a prison cell.”

Aboriginal children were also “disproportionately” impacted, with 69 per cent in youth custody being on remand.

Along with bodies such as Liberty Victoria, the SMLS has called for the removal of the Bail Act’s “reverse-onus” provisions.

This would reinstate the presumption in

Parks Victoria Authorised Officers on trailbikes patrolling Lysterfield Park. Pictures: PARKS VICTORIA

Targeting trail riders A new operation targeting illegal trail bike riding across Melbourne parks is the first of its kind by Parks Victoria.

Locals can expect to see an increased presence of Parks Victoria authorised patrol officers in urban parks to crack down on illegal trail bike riding on walking and management trails, to raise awareness of the safety risk and damage posed by their behaviour.

Recent years have seen a spike in reports of trail bike riders spotted in Lysterfield Park and Churchill National Park.

The new operation, under the name Operation OXIDE will set up patrols in these areas, along with Bunyip State Park and Kurth Kiln Regional Park, which have been significant impacted by increased trail bike activity since the 2019 bushfires.

As well as being a safety risk in popular urban parks, like Lysterfield, illegal trail bike riding causes damage to valuable habitat for native species, causes soil erosion impacting waterways and sensitive vegetation, and can potentially impact Aboriginal heritage and cultural sites in the area.

Manager of Enforcement Operations Chris Mercier said the use of motorbikes in busy urban parks like Lysterfield Park was dangerous and irresponsible.

“We’ve been able to build up a picture of when and where these illegal activities are occurring - we could be out there at any time, evenings and weekends - offenders should expect to be caught.”

Parks Victoria said they would work in partnership with the Conservation Regulator and Victoria Police for safety and compliance on public land. Details of those riding unregis-

tered or unlicensed bikes will be shared with Victoria Police.

The areas are likely to see increased patrols over the coming months, targeting peak riding hours during the longer sunshine hours and on weekends.

However, Parks Victoria recognises that enjoying the Victorian bush from the seat of a motorbike is a unique experience, and have some things to remember when planning to ride on public land: Motorbikes must be registered and riders must be licensed. Some ebikes are considered motorbikes under the law - which can be checked on the VicRoads website.

Motorbikes must stay on formed roads or tracks where this activity is permitted. Check details before heading out on your ride.

Comply with signage.

Be aware that there are other park users such as four wheel drivers, horse riders and cyclists that may also be using the approved road and track network.

There are no legal single trails for motorbike use on public land.

There are penalties for riding off road or in areas where this activity is not permitted.

“Parks Victoria encourages people to get out and enjoy parks, but it is important for the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors and the health of the environment that you stay within the law,” Mr Mercier said.

To report illegal trail bike riding, call Parks Victoria on 13 1963 or Victoria Police.

More information at exploreoutdoors.vic. gov.au/where-to-start/trail-bike-riding-instate-forests

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favour of bail subject to “specific and immediate risk to the safety of another person or demonstrable flight risk”.

SMLS also calls for a ban on remanding people facing charges unlikely to result in jail sentences.

Liberty Victoria president Michael Stanton said “our broken bail laws have now had tragic consequences”.

“An applicant for bail should not be required to demonstrate that they do not pose a risk to community safety in order to avoid the impact of a reverse onus provision.

“That would be very difficult to prove, even for many low-level alleged offences.

“The onus should always remain on the State to demonstrate why a person being held in custody before hearing or trial is justified and necessary.”

The Government and Opposition have both declared support for bail reform.

Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes said “the death of Veronica Nelson was a tragedy – nothing less”.

“Our bail laws need to protect the community without having a disproportionate or unintended impact on those accused of low-level offending who do not present a risk to community safety.

“We know we need to do more in relation to criminal justice reform, including bail reform, and that work is continuing.”

Shadow Attorney-General Michael O’Brien said more than 4 in 10 prisoners were held on remand awaiting trial “while Victorian court backlogs are the worst in the nation”.

The Coalition was committed to “effective bail laws that protect the safety of the community whilst giving every opportunity to those in the criminal justice system to get on the right path.”

Scrubfires were suspicious Victoria Police are investigating two suspicious scrubfires started within days near Lynbrook Primary School.

Hampton Park CFA units as well as FRV crews responded to the second bushfire at Patterson Drive about 3.47pm on 26 January.

The 40-metre by 40-metre fire was burning behind the school and near a train line, a CFA spokesperson said.

“The incident was declared safe by 4.18pm and handed to Victoria Police to investigate.“ Police were also called to investigate a grass and scrubfire in wetlands next to the train line and near the school about 1.18pm on 22 January.

Six CFA units from Hampton Park, Casey Group, Cranbourne, Hallam and Narre Warren

took several hours to extinguish the blaze.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said no one was injured and no structures were damaged.

“At this stage the fires are being treated as suspicious.“ CFA incident controller Lieutenant Joe Show said residents can ensure their safety this fire season by checking emergency smoke and fire warnings, available at emergency.vic. gov.au “A couple of helpful pieces of advice would be to keep your distance from emergency services while they do their job and if you find yourself near a grassfire, walk at least two streets back,” Lt Shaw said.

Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.vic.gov.au

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Operation Oxide: Parks Victoria Authorised Officers on trail bikes patrolling Lysterfield Park. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

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2 Tango Circuit Pakenham (off Commercial Drive)

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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STAR NEWS 3

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with 2023 Casey Citizen of the Year Jo Ann Fritzgerald

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I was born at West Point Military Academy at West Point, New York.

What do you love about the work you do with Neighbourhood Watch Casey?

I like learning things. With Casey being so multicultural, as I’m out talking to people I get to learn new things all the time and I get to ask questions of people. I’ve found people’s joy in their faces as I ask questions or comment on what they say the most rewarding thing. It shows people you are listening to them.

What would your last meal be?

I’m a meat and potatoes girl, so it would probably be steak and masked potatoes.

What is your most memorable moment?

This would be the weeks and the day of my wedding. We had three fires and a wedding.

Last year we celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary, and still going strong.

What event past or present would you like to witness?

I would have loved to see George Washington sworn in as the first President in New York.

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

This is a hard one as I have so many. I like history. I would have loved to have a chat with Alexander Hamilton, Tadeusz Ko?ciuszko, and Franklin D. Roosevelt.

What are you currently listening to, watching or reading?

I have a few books started Corps Justice Series by C.G. Cooper Reed Security Series by Giulia Lagomarsino Europe: A History by Norman Davies Ellis Island A People’s History by Malgorzata Szejnert If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?

Homemade chicken fettuccine Alfredo for main dish and profiteroles for dessert.

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Jo Ann Fitzgerald was recognised as the 2023 Casey Citizen of the Year for her work with Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Neighbourhood Watch Casey. 317424 Where is your dream holiday destination?

To get to Europe to meet my cousins in France, Germany, Belgium and Poland. We would have to stop in Ireland to meet my husband’s relatives.

What were you like as a kid?

I loved to run, ride my bike, and be in the library with my nieces.

What was your first job?

Babysitting my nieces and nephews.

What are the three most used apps on your phone?

Mail, Facebook Messenger, and camera.

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

Why don’t all people treat others with kindness and respect they deserve. Everyone deserves to be treated with kindness no matter who they are.

THREE … community groups to volunteer with

1

Hampton Park Progress Association Hampton Park Progress Association works to represent and benefit the Hampton Park community, providing a range of events for families to enjoy.

Get involved in a rewarding community initiative, meets the 2nd Monday of every month in Hampton Park at 7pm. Contact enquiriesHPPA@outlook.com to find out more.

2

Neighbourhood Watch Casey Neighbourhood Watch Casey volunteers encourage City of Casey residents to participate with Police in the prevention of crime to ensure safe and secure neighbourhoods.The group meets at 7pm on the second Wednesday of every month. Contact admin@ nhwcasey.com

3

Bk 2 Basics Melbourne - Narre Warren Bk 2 Basics is a family run notfor-profit providing emergency food relief for over 3000 families each week. Working on a volunteer basis, the charity always appreciates a helping hands with initiatives such as its Wednesday night meal service, which supports hundreds of families with hot dinners. Contact bk2basicsmelbourne@gmail.com

NEWS

Phillip tackles potato shortage for fellow businesses

By Eleanor Wilson A Cranbourne fish and chips shop owner is going the extra mile to ensure his customers don’t go without their beloved potato chips and dim sims, amid the potato and cabbage shortage currently afflicting the nation.

Flooding and wet weather has significantly impacted potato yield for Australian farmers in recent months, causing suppliers to impose limits on potato products.

Owner of Camms Rd Fish and Chips, Phillip Lim, said he began to face problems in December, with suppliers significantly decreasing their supply capabilities due to the ongoing shortage.

“A lot of businesses are struggling to find new suppliers, because suppliers can only take small orders and some aren’t taking on new clients at all,”he said.

“Every single business is just taking what they can get right now... some businesses have had to cut off large and medium sized chip orders and only giving small sized boxes.“ In an effort to fix the problem, Mr Lim began widening his supplier catch net, spending hours searching for new suppliers across Melbourne to satisfy his customer’s spud cravings.

He is currently purchasing stock from more than half a dozen different suppliers, one of which requires him to drive to 45 minutes each way to collect.

But the extra work is not a selfish feat for Mr Lim, who put a call out on Facebook notifying fellow businesses that he was willing to lend a helping hand to fill their freezers.

“I pretty much just explained that I don’t have an issue with supply, because I’m doing all of this extra work, and I’m happy to help out any businesses that are struggling with the shortages at the moment by providing them stock,“ he said.

“I’m more than happy to help, because I don’t want other businesses doing it tough, at the end of the day we all have to pay the bills.“ 4 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

Phillip Lim took ownership of the Camms Road business four months ago. 317585 One of those business owners is Akanshka Prasher, who owns a kid’s play centre and cafe in Carrum Downs, where party food is a large part of her business.

Ms Prasher said she was recently almost forced to shut down her business, Lollipop Playland and Cafe, due to the lack of supply.

“We did get a warning that we might run out of supply but we weren’t expecting it to be this bad,” she said.

“I haven’t received anything from my two regular suppliers for two months.”

“It was terrible, I’m struggling and I have

to call so many people every morning to try to find chips.”

Ms Prasher said she reached out to Mr Lim for a helping hand after seeing his post on Facebook several weeks ago.

“He tries to organise chips for me and if he’s running out of dim sims, I check my supply to help him out,” she said.

“It was such a good gesture from his end. I really appreciate it because nobody wants to shut their business for such a reason, but we didn’t have any choice and it could have happened if we didn’t find a solution.“

Mr Lim’s stocked freezer is a product of hours of behind the scenes work to ensure he has enough supply for hungry customers. 317585 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS Ms Prasher said her suppliers have intimated supply should improve between March to May. Until then, Mr Lim plans to continue chasing chip and dim sim supplies wherever he can find them.

“For local businesses right now, if you want to be fully supplied, you have to put in a lot of extra work,“ he said.

“It’s a lot of networking, talking to different suppliers, driving to get stock... and that’s on top of my normal workload. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Free Kinder is here!

Three- and Four-Year-Old Kinder is now free across Victoria at participating services — saving families up to $2,500 per year per child.

Over the decade, we’ll also transition Four-Year-Old Kinder into Pre-Prep to become a 30-hour a week program, and establish 50 Victorian Government-owned and affordable childcare centres.

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Learn more at vic.gov.au/kinder

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

OPINION

Witness call Gang Crime Squad detectives are appealing for witnesses following the theft of two vehicles from a Brighton East house.

Investigators were told a number of people entered the Regent Street property about 2.30am on Monday 23 January.

Following the execution of a search warrant, Gang Crime Squad detectives arrested a 21-year-old Narre Warren man in Narre Warren on Wednesday morning.

He was charged with dangerous or negligent driving while pursued by police, theft of motor vehicle, drive in manner dangerous, drive at speed dangerous, reckless conduct endangering life, drive while disqualified and breach prescribed condition of parole.

He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 20 April.

LENSCAPE

Merinda Park cricketer in a flock of birds at Donnelly Reserve, Lesdon Drive, Cranbourne. 317840

LANG LANG SHOW’n’SHINE & SWAP MEET Sun.12th FEB.

SOCIALLY SPEAKING Berwick shone a little brighter last week thanks to local country music star Andrew Swift who brought home a Golden Guitar from the 2023 Tamworth Country Music Festival. Proud Berwick locals had this to say: Lynneve Jane Clayton Congratulations Andrew!!! I just love your music and dancing to it in the kitchen. We can’t wait to hear you perform live again in March at the Nooj Pub Annual Charity Duck

langlangshownshine.com

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to excessively long trailer vehicles in drive thrus - the length of the vehicle blocks the payment window and the order point!

Funeral Director

...the little things make a difference

Thumbs down I’m in hospital.

Pakenham

190 Princes Highway Ph: 5941 4888

Cranbourne

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Drouin

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

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

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

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

Thumbs down to the motorists that continue to drive in the x lane on the freeway.

Thumbs down to people who continuously blame truck drivers for everything when half the time it’s the car drivers that are the problem. Go out for a day with a truck driver and you’ll see what they have to put up with on a day to day basis.

Thumbs up

Thumbs up

I’m being looked after really well.

to the return of Australian Idol.

Thumbs down to people who put hard waste on their nature strip for months on end. A simple phone call is all it takes to have it collected. It doesn’t happen automatically.

Thumbs down to Covid weaseling its way into our office again.

Thumbs up to Aussie men’s doubles team Rinky Hijikata and Jason Kubler on their Australian Open win.

Speak up on Bunjil

By Tanya Faulkner

www.davidwbull.com.au

Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600

Two young tennis lovers from Cranbourne proved themselves on the world stage as ballkids for the Australian Open throughout January. Here’s what our Facebook readers thought: Jo Mooney Such a wonderful experience for them! Nothing like it for aspiring young tennis players.

Good luck to you both with your tennis!

NEWS

6 Brunt Street Ph: 5996 6822

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

Race & Family Fun Day. Stanley Young Congratulations Andrew you have certainly come along way since you started playing a few tunes in the corner at Purvies.

Margaret Cooper Congratulations.

Marlene Lawrence Congratulations! Fabulous singer.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs down

LANG LANG SHOWGROUNDS

2 Porter Place Ph: 5625 2571

Picture: ROB CAREW

Thursday, 2 February, 2023

The time has come for the City of Casey residents and ratepayers to have their say on the proposed Bunjil Place Revitalisation project.

City of Casey Council is examining different opportunities to develop five hectares of under-utilised land adjoining Bunjil PLace and Fountain Gate Shopping Centre in Narre Warren - known as the Bunjil Place Precinct - to increase investment opportunities and meet the requirements of Casey’s community.

Council said the site could provide a unique opportunity to build on the strong cultural and social focus created by Bunjil Place, with a potential to support greater diversity of employment, tourism, economic and social activity.

As it currently stands, the masterplan for the project includes potential multi-rise residential apartments, a hotel, hospitality and leisure spaces, wellbeing facilities, a multideck car park and enhanced pedestrian access within the precinct.

Following a meeting held on December 13 last year, the time has come for residents to share their ideas on what they would like to see at the site via an online survey, to further shape the precincts’ vision and ensure its development meets the needs and desires of the community.

City of Casey Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff is encouraging all residents to share their thoughts and be part of the site’s development journey.

“The City of Casey is committed to creating public spaces where the community can thrive, while attracting investment opportunities and partnerships that deliver positive community outcomes now and into the future.”

Ms Duff said “The Bunjil Place Precinct provides our community with the potential opportunity to strengthen the area’s arts and

tourism culture that has been established by Bunjil Place”.

Residents and ratepayers can share their feedback via Council’s community consultation website by Friday 24 February: conversations.casey.vic.gov.au/bunjil-place-precinct Following the community’s consultation to finalise the site’s vision, Council will seek the community’s feedback on selling the five hectares of land for the development of the precinct.

The long-term project will take place over the next 10 or more years. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Hemmy on her first day at St Patrick’s Primary School. 316555

The three twin sets- Koah and Alaska (back left), Ava and Olivia (front) and Wade and Xavier (right front and back). 316555

Olivia, Lylah and Hunter enter the classroom for the first time on Monday at Pakenham Consolidated Primary School. 317296

All smiles as school begins

By Shelby Brooks

Katherine Gronek and her class of preps at St Patrick’s Primary School. 316555 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Jensen was excited to be in art class at Pakenham Consolidated Primary School. 317296

St Patrick’s Primary School prep student Shingo was all smiles. 316555

Pakenham Consolidated Primary School prep students Lillie and Dirusheak with teacher Erin Robinson. 317296

FSA/DETS1330

Foundation students across the state experienced school life for the first time this week as Term 1 began.

Pakenham Consolidated Primary School principal Katrina Stewart said the first day back at school on Monday 30 January was “fabulous“.

“All of our students settled into their classrooms and spent the day getting to know their teacher and classmates,“ she said.

“We are looking forward to a great year and the opening of our brand new school facilities in the second half of the year.“ Her advice to nervous parents and students was to build up communication between family and the school.

“Let the teacher know any information that may assist with getting to know your child, make sure your child has everything they need and keep your contact details up to date,“ she said.

“Then you can trust that the teacher will do everything to keep your child happy and engaged knowing that they will be able to contact you if they need to.

“When your child gets home, ask questions like ‘What was the best part of the day?’ or ‘What was your favourite activity?’ so your child feels that you are excited about their new journey.“ Three sets of twins have started their school journey with big smiles at Pakenham’s St Patrick’s Primary School.

The twins- Koah and Alaska, Ava and Olivia, Wade and Xavier- had their first day on Tuesday 31 January and were most excited to have fun on the playground.

Principal Meg Escalante said it was unusual to have so many in one year level.

“It does present an unusual challenge for the teachers. Some of the twins are together in the same grade, while some are not,“ she said.

The two grades of preps were settling in well with a school tour.

“There were a few moments of hesitation to leave their parents but they are settling in so beautifully and are all very happy.“

Find a Kinder Program near you.

There is still time to enrol for the 2023 kindergarten year.

Find services offering approved kindergarten programs by scanning the QR code.

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Find out more at vic.gov.au/kinder

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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STAR NEWS 7

NEWS

Arrests in $2m robbery

By Sahar Foladi Three men have been arrested by police over a $2-million-plus jewellery heist in Dandenong.

Greater Dandenong CIU detectives allege two armed robbers entered a jewellery store in central Dandenong, assaulted a victim and threatened them at knifepoint about 6pm on Thursday 29 December.

They then fled with jewellery and cash.

Detectives executed search warrants on 1 February, arresting a 66-year-old Doncaster man, a 60-year-old Pakenham man and a 38-year-old Narre Warren man.

At the time of press, they were being questioned by police.

Police have alleged the two men dressed in tradie vests and clothes entered the store from the back entrance held the victim on a knife point, gagged, bounded the victim as they robbed the jewellery store.

Detective Sergeant Craig West said the vic-

tim was left traumatised with no physical injuries.

“He’s not great. It’s obviously a terrible offence to happen at your workplace.”

The pair then fled the scene with 21 carat jewelleries worth between $2m- $2.5m and cash in the victim’s car.

The offenders drove a distance away before getting in a Toyota Camry which was caught on CCTV footage, police say.

Meanwhile the victim was left tied up in the store.

“His face was masked up and he managed to get out the back and alert some other people who assisted him and contacted the police,” Det Sgt West said.

He also said the incident was very well planned.

“They were quick, they were efficient and they got away without anybody noticing at the time.”

Detective Sergeant Craig West.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Scrubfire sparks community warning from brigades

By Eleanor Wilson Local fire brigades have issued a reminder for residents to be aware when using farm machinery during fire season, after a grass and scrub fire in Cardinia on Wednesday 25 January.

Units from Clyde, Tooradin and Devon Meadows CFA were called to a private property in Cardinia around 1:30pm on Wednesday 25 January, where a grass and scrub fire was spreading.

The fire was brought under control within about 30 minutes with no one injured and no

damage to property, according to a Facebook post by Devon Meadows CFA. The fire is understood to have been started by farm machinery, sparking brigades to issue a reminder to community members to act with caution during fire season.

“If you’re using farm machinery or vehicles, ensure it is free from any faults and mechanical defects, fitted with an approved spark arrestor and carrying a water fire extinguisher,” the post read.

“Be aware of hot exhaust pipes, mufflers can start grassfires. The accumulation of grass around the underbody of vehicles can

create a fire risk.“ The most common cause of grass and scrub fires caused by machinery is material collecting on hot engine components such as the manifold, exhaust and turbocharger, according to the CFA. “The key to avoiding grass fires caused by machinery is diligence in clean-down and inspection.”

The reminder came a few days ahead on the imposition of a Fire Danger Period in Casey and Cardinia on Monday 30 January.

The period places a series of restrictions

on fire activities in the community, with written permits required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation.

Lighting a fire in the open without a permit is an offence and can bring a penalty of over $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.

Barbecues and fires for cooking and warmth do not require a permit, but must be lit in properly constructed fireplaces.

For more information, head to cfa.vic.gov. au/warnings-restrictions/total-fire-bansfire-danger-ratings/can-i-or-cant-i

G R RATIN E G N A D FIRE TODAY

OW CTION N TAKE A

Don’t travel to bushland on Extreme Fire Danger Rating days.

If you plan to travel through Victoria during fire season, it’s important to check the Fire Danger Rating every day.

If the rating is Extreme or Catastrophic, avoid travelling to high risk bush or grassfire areas. It’s safer to travel to cities or towns for the day.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to emergency.vic.gov.au

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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NEWS

Jigar Jitubhai Patel and Minal Jigar Patel pose with Mayor Radford, MP Jason Wood and councillor Graeme Moore. 317243

The Cardinia Civic Concert Band performed a selection of songs before and after the official ceremony. 317243

Srividya Kadaladi Ramkumar, Razik Ahamed Amanulla and their son were among the new Australian citizens. 317243

New citizens celebrated

By Shelby Brooks Almost 100 people became Australian citizens on Thursday 26 January at a special Australia Day ceremony at the Cardinia Cultural Centre.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Tammy Radford welcomed the 93 new local citizens, with the help of the Cardinia Civic Concert Band.

“Today’s ceremony is a time for us to reflect on the meaning and importance of Australian citizenship, and the responsibilities and privileges we have as citizens,“ she said.

“Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world. Our Australian citizenship is the common bond which unites us all.

“Thank you for choosing Cardinia Shire to be your home and the contribution you have made, and continue to make, to your community.“ La Trobe MP Jason Wood said becoming an Australian was like a badge of honour.

“I’m proud to call you brother and sister Australians,“ he said.

“Treat Australia as your home, because it is now, make every opportunity count.“ Families and individuals from Bangladesh, Germany, Lebanon, Pakistan, Ireland, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom, Cambodia, Iran, Malaysian, The Philippines, Slovenia, Sudan, Venezuela, Canada, India, New Zealand, Poland, South Africa, Taiwan, Zimbabwe all can now officially call Cardinia Shire their home.

The Alonso family was one of the largest to become officially Australians. 317243

Pictures: SHELBY BROOKS

Jason Wood, La Trobe MP, welcomed the new citizens. 317243

One of Cardinia’s newest Australian citizens, Willow. 317243 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Sharon Jones, Joshua Filoteo and Maurice Filoteo celebrate becoming Australians. 317243 Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

Kotara. 316389

Bracken Spray. 316389

Cafe au Lait. 316389

Aitara Picardy. 316389

Family’s dahlias delight When Pam and Les Albut moved back to Pearcedale after many years living in Port Macquarie, they decided on a whim to try growing some dahlias.

The idea was sparked by Pam’s daughter who was working as a market stall florist working mainly with succulents at the time.

“I said you need some flowers at your stall to draw people’s attention,” Pam said.

“That was early September, I racked my brain and I thought, it’s dahlia time.

“It was a whim.”

Pam had worked as a horticulturalist by profession and had sold up the plant nursery she and her husband operated in Port Macquarie to retire home in Pearcedale.

“We bought 125 tubers and now, seven years later we have 5000.”

The dahlia was discovered in Mexico in the 1700s and taken back to Europe and hybridised, Pam explained.

“From an innocuous little flower, all this evolved,” she said.

“20,000 would be a conservative guess of the number of dahlia varieties that exist.

“It has the genetics to have it be very varied and colourful. Dahlias have more chromosomes than other plants.”

Pam and Les’ daughters Sarah and Rebecca take the lead in the business- Floral and Stem.

They have about 200 varieties in Pam and Les’ 10 acre market garden and intend to double that next year.

Dahlias grow from tubers in the ground.

Each season, each plant populates about 10 new tubers underground.

They can then be dug up, separated and sold.

“You dig dahlias up each year because if you left it in the ground - two years in the ground you would have 20 tubers - you have a massive tangle of tubers which is hard to divide,” Pam said.

“The plant performs better on a single tuber than a massive clump. They are more invigorated because they are wanting to create more tubers.”

“They are such a rewarding plant, from a very ugly ordinary piece of vegetable matter you can get something so beautiful.”

Dahlias flower from about Christmastime through to April.

“In a garden they are so wonderful because they flower all through summer,” Pam said.

“Often we don’t have them for Mother’s Day which is a shame.”

On a good morning, the farm will pick around 500 dahlias which is then supplied to customers on the Mornington Peninsula.

In Pearcedale, the dahlias grow in sandy lime soil, the easiest to cultivate on because the earth is easy to dig, Pam said. But dahlias will perform as equally well on clay as well.

“Drainage is their biggest factor,” she said.

“They like water but too much rots the tuber.”

When Pam and Les first became involved with dahlias, they joined the Dahlia Society of Victoria to learn tricks from other passionate growers.

Pam now is president of the society and they hold various teaching events at their property for members.

“I think the best way to learn is to be amongst people who know all about it,” Pam said.

“The man who we bought [the original tubers from] was the president of the Australian Dahlia Society. He invited us to a conference and we met lots of lovely people and we were sort of hooked.”

The annual State Dahlia Show, run by the Dahlia Society of Victoria is being held on Saturday 25 February at Mount Waverley Community Centre from 1pm.

For more information head to dahliasocietyofvictoria.org.au

Willow and Eliza and Jager. 316389

Pam Albut is the president of the Dahlia Society of Victoria. 316389 Picture: ROB CAREW 10 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

Floral and Stem is a family operation: Les, Eliza (20 months), Rebecca, Willow and Pam. At front is Jager the dog. 316389

Pom Pon Pam. 316389

Eliza and Willow love looking at the flowers.

316389

Coir peat is used to keep moisture in the earth surrounding the plants. 316389

Les at work keeping the weeds at bay. 316389 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Art in action in Cardinia Cardinia Shire Council is one of six municipalities in metropolitan Melbourne to provide free career support for the creative community.

Made available January to June 2023, ArtsACTION delivers inspiration and professional development for artists and creatives to activate career pathways, broaden networks, and build market reach.

The program is facilitated by Pop Up Art, a division of not-for-profit Jumpleads NFP and offers a six-part email resource pack, Zoom workshops, and access to a growing supportive network. The workshops cover topics such as being market ready, working together effectively and digital communities.

Jumpleads Director and program facilitator Sharon Seyd, who has been working in the creative industries for over 35 years said this program recognised creatives were often under-resourced and overlooked - despite their importance as a highly valuable, vital sector of the community.

“According to Creative Victoria, in 2019-20, the creative sector contributed $31.6 billion to the Victorian economy, 8.6 per cent of the total state workforce,“ Ms Seyd said.

“The partners coming together behind this initiative, recognise the need for artists to develop relevant career skills and the support required for them to foster viable practices.

Ian Kemp previously participated in the program.

“Through our experience delivering the previous four programs and working with 1000’s of artists, we have found most creatives want greater opportunities for exposure. Many need information, methods, and frameworks to maximise their potential.”

ArtsACTION is free of charge for anyone

Silvana Benacchio has hosted many exhibitions. living or working within Brimbank, Cardinia, Hume, Melton, Nillumbik and Yarra Ranges, thanks to generous contributions from these shires, who have jumped on board for multiple beneficial reasons.

Emerging or professional visual artists, performers, writers, musicians, arts workers, and

people involved in community arts or creative industries, are invited to participate.

It’s particularly relevant for creatives looking to grow their career, build their business, step up their organisation, or connect with other creatives across Victoria and beyond.

Everyone is welcome.

FOCUS ON … DANCE, MUSIC AND DRAMA

Train with me in 2023

Fun times on the dance floor at Rockn’ Suzies.

Rockin’ the night away Rockn’ Suzies’ dance classes are starting their 20th year.

The teacher is Sue Dodson who danced and taught with Starr Belle dance studio for 19 years before starting a rock and roll class which originally started in Nar Nar Goon.

This is now the start of her 20th year of teaching rock and roll.

She has run classes in Nar Nar Goon, Berwick, Cranbourne, Morwell and Pakenham.

“And I still love teaching people how to dance,” Sue said.

“I believe that rock and roll is one of the easiest of the dance styles to master as it allows for lots of individuality.

“The classes are designed to be fun and easy to follow for those aged 10 upwards. Dancing is great for fitness, co-ordination, balance and memory, and many people form great friendships through the classes.

“I am now only teaching at Pakenham and Cranbourne.”

The Pakenham Class is held in the hall where the library is - corner of John and Henry Streets. The Cranbourne class is held at the Senior Citizens Hall - corner of Codrington Street and the South Gippsland Highway. Both of the nights have beginner and advanced rock ‘n’ roll classes open to all with no partner required.

They also include a special class at the end of the night for partners only to learn some of the different styles associated with rock ‘n’ roll which include swing, west coast, jive, triples, line and partner dances and cha cha. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Rockn’ Suzies also runs a monthly charity dance at the Pakenham Hall which has been running for 17 years now. A different band plays each month which everyone in the community is welcome and encouraged to attend.

For information call Sue on 5940 9791 or 0400 216 670.

Meet Kayla.

She is 10 years old and has been training at Cathy-Lea Studios for eight years. Her favourite classes are Ballet and Lyrical.

Kayla takes classes in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Commercial Jazz, Acrobatics and Ballet Variations.

She trains in the studio’s Elite Training Program which includes conditioning and skills classes.

Kayla received 100% for her Cecchetti International Grade 4 Ballet examination and 100% for her Bronze Star Jazz examination in 2022. She was awarded the Noelle Aitken Junior Encouragement Award from Cecchetti Ballet and she was selected for the elite Cecchetti Junior Scholars program.

Kayla is currently rehearsing with for State Youth Ballet Company’s production of “Alice in Wonderland”.

Kayla says the things he likes most about Cathy-Lea are that “The teachers challenge me and push me to be my best. I’m always learning new things.”

She wants to let people know that “classes are fun and everyone is really nice” and it is better than other studios in the area because it “offers a lot of different styles and

Kayla is currently rehearsing with for State Youth Ballet Company’s production of “Alice in Wonderland”. you can pick what you like”.

Kayla’s favourite event is the annual Cathy-Lea concert which is presented as a fully themed production with acting, singing and dancing. Kayla hopes you will come and dance with her at Cathy-Lea in 2023.

Visit cathy-lea.com to register for a free trial class and find out how you can dance with Kayla in 2023.

Train with us in 2023 Dance Music & Drama classes

Rock n Roll Classes Beginners & Advanced

•All ages •All abilities •Free trial classes •Fee discounts •Recreational classes •Pre-professional training •Ready Set Dance •VCE & VET Dance

Classes held at Cranbourne & Pakenham CRANBOURNE TUESDAY NIGHTS Starting 31st January at 7pm PAKENHAM WEDNESDAY NIGHTS Starting 1st February at 7pm $10 per night - No Partner required

Contact Sue on 5940 9791 or 0400 216 670

Creating stars since 1991

5/15-19 Vesper Dve, Narre Warren 9704-7324 office@cathy-lea.com www.cathy-lea.com

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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STAR NEWS 11

NEWS

Visa frustration mounts

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Dandenong refugee advocate says there’s soaring frustration about the Federal Government’s still-dormant election pledge to upgrade thousands of temporary visas.

Wicki Wickiramasingham, a long-time ALP member and former deputy chair of Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre, said hundreds of asylum seekers in the South East had been expecting “good news” by the new year.

“Still after the election, nothing has been done. They have been disappointed.”

Ahead of the May 2022 election, Labor had promised to end Temporary Protection Visas (TPVs) and Safe Haven Enterprise Visas (SHEVs), and to transition holders onto permanent visas.

The government has since blamed holdups on an inherited 1 million visa application backlog. It says it has hired more than 400 extra staff and to have slashed the list to 600,000 by the end of 2022.

Asylum seekers who arrive by boat, otherwise called ‘unauthorised maritime arrivals’, can only apply for a TPV or SHEV. They must re-apply every three years (TPV) or five years (SHEV) to remain in Australia.

Some have been living in such limbo for up to 16 years, Mr Wickiramasingham says.

Without permanent visas, they find it harder to get work and eke out a living, and are barred from reuniting with loved ones left behind.

Mr Wickiramasingham tells of a Tamil man who has been on a bridging visa for more than a decade while awaiting for a decision on his refugee status.

In the meantime, his prime adult years have been wasted, still unable to reunite with his fiancee left behind in Sri Lanka.

“He’s lonely. He has no family, just other

Wicki Wickiramasingham says asylum seekers are anxiously awaiting for the Federal Government to fulfill its promise. 235665 Picture: GARY SISSONS boat people who help each other”, Mr Wickiramsingham says.

In his early 20s, the man was arrested by the Sri Lankan military for supporting “pro-liberation forces”.

A relative paid for his release from the army’s detention camp and then he was “put on a boat” to Australia.

Peter Rabbit

Now in his early 30s, he still dreams of bringing out his parents and fiancee who he left behind.

He has not spoken to them by phone for several months. Family members are too afraid due to Sri Lankan authorities “tapping the calls” and detaining people seen as antigovernment.

In Australia, he is hampered by his insecure

visa status. Potential employers overlook him in favour of citizens and permanent residents.

Often he relies on low-paid, cash-in-hand jobs, and sometimes on friends and charity for food.

In the meantime, he and four other asylum seekers are crammed into an ‘affordable’ twobedroom rental, sharing the $2400-a-month rent.

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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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Seeking refuge in South East region

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.

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Warren each with 32 and Pakenham 27.

The most common nationalities were Sri Lanka (1448), Iran (1423), Pakistan (502) and Afghanistan (276). A further 468 were ‘stateless’.

Nearly two thirds of the BVE holders were aged between 26-45 years, and most commonly men. More than 750 were children.

Across Australia, there were 10,868 BVE holders. More than 80 per cent lived in Victoria or NSW.

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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

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South East Melbourne is a hot spot for asylum seekers awaiting their fate on bridging visas.

The Dandenong postcode is home to the most asylum seekers on bridging visa E in Victoria, new official stats show.

The short-term visa is granted to ‘unauthorised maritime arrivals’ awaiting a decision on their refugee status.

As of June 2022, there were 591 BVE holders in the 3175 postcode – about one in eight of those living in Victoria.

Next highest in Victoria was Sunshine with 459.

Springvale ranked seventh with 138, Doveton tenth with 132 and Noble Park 11th with 131.

Also in the South East, Cranbourne was home to 59 BVE holders, Endeavour Hills 52 and Hampton Park 49, Hallam and Narre

12497982-JW24-21

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

12496498-DL22-21

Asylum Seeker Resource Centre has criticised the delay in ending a “cruel and inhumane” system.

Spokesperson Barat Ali Batoor said the system was introduced by the former Abbott Government to stop people arriving by sea from getting permanent residency.

“It was introduced to fail people. It was flawed and gave little opportunity for their claims.”

The wait has been a “very frustrating situation” for 31,000 asylum seekers across Australia and their wider communities.

“There is a lot of stress and anxiety about the delay in the announcement. It should have happened by now. There’s been nothing.”

Greater Dandenong Council’s asylum seeker advisory committee reported in December that TPV and SHEV holders were “experiencing fatigue from waiting”.

Mayor Eden Foster leads the Local Government Mayoral Taskforce Supporting People Seeking Asylum, which comprises mayors from across Australia.

She said the taskforce was continuing to press Federal MPs for an end to TPVs and SHEVs. While understanding the causes for the delays, she said it was “cold comfort” for temporary visa holders.

Bruce Labor MP Julian Hill said that “I share the community’s frustration at the delay to be frank, and have numerous friends and local constituents affected.”

“Details will be announced as soon as possible.

“Unfortunately it is not a simple matter to clean up 10 years of utter mess that the Liberals left in Home Affairs including a backlog over 1 million visa and citizenship applications but 500 new staff are now making progress.”

A Department of Home Affairs spokesperson said the Government “intends to meet this commitment as soon as possible”.

“The resolution of these visa holders needs to be carefully managed.”

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR LA TROBE 03 9768 9164 JasonWood.Updates

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Tennis mum’s OAM honour

By Jonty Ralphsmith She’s known by those who play tennis in Narre Warren as the mother of the Narre Warren Tennis Club.

Now, club co-founder and president Betty Lukas has an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) to show for her service to tennis.

Ms Lukas does all the work at Sweeney Reserve that no-one wants to do but is necessary for members and players to enjoy their tennis: assorting equipment, allocating courts, communication within and from the club, and maintenance work.

Drawn to the club by a love of tennis, the former mid-week ladies’ competitor remained active around the club to assist where needed while her two daughters, Cara and Megan, played growing up.

That pair moved on from the club long ago, but Betty’s care for the club and love of the game has kept her there.

She’s since accumulated a party bag full of accolades and roles: life member, two stints as president, twice treasurer, secretary and record keeper.

Ms Lukas also had a 12-year stint as president of the Berwick and District Tennis Association which involved co-ordinating all competition tennis in the region.

“She’s kept the club together for my 20 years there,” said long-time club member Paul Kleverlaan.

“She’s the backbone of the club; committee’s come and go, Betty doesn’t.

“Occasionally she’ll go into the background but when the club needs her, she’s always there.”

She started her second stint as president in 2020, staying on until now to help sustain the club during the difficult period and subsequent recovery.

Betty Lukas with Paul Kleverlaan.

Ms Lukas has a reputation and integrity which is instilled into juniors, where her great passion lies: giving kids the opportunity to play and enjoy the sport.

Her impact has transcended generations given her 41-years-and-counting involvement

Picture: SUPPLIED with the club, putting her in a position to connect older folk with the mixture of members currently involved.

While Ms Lukas has an unassuming personality synonymous with many award recipients, those around the club were rapt to see

her get just recognition.

“We’re very pleased for Betty because she never wants any credit but she is friendly, supportive and understanding, so she’s great asset for our club,” said vice-president Sheyenne Algama.

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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NEWS

Edelweiss brings high note

By David Qian

12569257-DL38-22

Thousands of Australians again marked January 26 in different ways in Lysterfield Park of Casey.

Edelweiss Casey Choir hit up this park for a live fellowship event to celebrate Australia Day with friends and family.

After more than three months of diligent preparation, Edelweiss Casey Choir had a more cheerful marking of the national day.

Earlier in the day, they illuminated the park with Australian flags, Aboriginal and national day flags, Australia Day logo banner and road signs.

Tents and pavilions were set up surrounded

by Edelweiss flags and banners, and different feather flags.

Picnic tables were covered with colourful national day tablecloths, and on the tables sat with different fruits, candies and prizes to be won.

Every choir member dressed up with beautiful choir clothes and makeups. All this artwork was depicting and honouring stories of Australia.

“We hope our setting of this event provides an opportunity for us to reflect on and learn about the connection Indigenous Australians have always had with the land and waters,“ Edelweiss Casey Choir director Dr Emily Hu said.

The social event officially started at 1pm with a grand appearance of three hosts.

An Acknowledgement of Country was first delivered to show respect for Traditional Owners and the continuing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Joined by hundreds of other people, all the members of the Choir stood up and sang a solemn chorus of the Australian national anthem, Advance Australia Fair.

Dr David Qian then passionately recited the

Members of the Edelweiss Casey Choir brought entertainment to Australia Day festivities at Lysterfield Park.

Story of Australia in both Chinese and English which attracted in a large number of tourists in the park.

In the following two hours, hundreds flocked to the event as the Choir started to give live performance which featured many different types of activities including chorus, duet singing, solo singing, instrument playing, crossword puzzle price winning, tongue twister-ing, and so on.

All of these items were warmly applauded by onlookers.

Sue was celebrating her first Australia Day with her family.

“It’s so exciting … we are coming from China and Australia’s National Day this year coincides with the fifth day of the Chinese Spring Festival” she said.

“I’m so grateful to the Edelweiss Casey

Picture: SUPPLIED

Choir for giving me this opportunity to be part of the Australian society and to call myself Australian today.” associate director of Edelweiss Casey Choir, Lili Xu said.

The fellowship event came to its conclusion with the warm singing of the chorus “you are my sunshine“. *David Qian is a member of Edelweiss Casey Choir

Catch up on all the news from the across the region... every Wednesday

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STAR NEWS 15

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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NEWS

Breaking even in business TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH You will have heard the term breaking even when applied to a business but what does this really mean?

Simply put, it means that the business did not make a profit and it did not make a loss after all expenses and revenue have been taken into consideration.

Since the following is true: Gross Profit = Sales – Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) Net Profit = Gross profit – Overhead expenses then if a business is to break even, then Net Profit = 0 and hence Gross Profit = Overhead expenses There is no doubt that the retail and hospitality sectors have done it tough over the past few years and on the occasions when I have spoken to owners of smaller businesses in these sectors, sometimes I heard that their business has broken even.

However, when I then ask how much they were paying themselves, it was not unusual to be told that they received little or nothing.

Staff in the business received their regular payment and bills were paid, but the business owner took little or nothing for themselves or something only when they thought the business could afford it.

Worse still, on many occasions the business owner was working crazy hours in the business since there was more to do than people to do it and the view was that the business could not afford to put on more staff.

· · · ·

After Covid-19, some businesses were only able to break even.

When people start their own business, they usually hope that they will get more income and spend less time working, but unfortunately for the majority of small business owners the reverse is true.

Initially of course, you would normally expect to be putting in the extra hours for little reward at the start, but if this is still happening after a year or more, then it is worth revisiting the underlying business model to see if this really stacks up.

When looking at budgets, it is important to factor in paying yourself a wage (and required superannuation contribution!) right from the start.

These costs are necessarily part of the overhead expenses mentioned above and by cal-

culating these, you can then derive what level of sales (and associated COGS) need to be in order for the business to be profitable.

However, there is a more subtle point to be made here as well.

If you were engaging a professional to do some work for you, you would not expect them to do this for free would you? Assuming they were not a mate, you would probably be a little more than sceptical about the quality of the work if they charged you little or nothing for it as well.

If this is the case and you are a professional too, why would you not similarly apply the same rule for yourself and value your time accordingly? Some years ago, I worked with a highly capable marketing professional.

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STAR NEWS 17

SPORT

Once in a lifetime display

By David Nagel Even by Russell Lehman’s extraordinarily high standards…this was a day to savour.

The former Pakenham, now Tooradin allrounder – one of the great players of the competition over the last decade – took a hat-trick to finish off the Seagulls’ round-12 CCCA Premier Division fixture against Cardinia at Gunton Oval on Saturday.

But that magnificent highlight, well it was only one chapter of the story that the dual Terry Stephenson Medallist delivered on a remarkable day of cricket.

Lehman also took his first-ever eight-wicket haul, claiming 8/34 from 18 breathtaking overs.

He did it as the reigning champions defended their modest 121 with a crushing performance against the Bulls…who could muster just 83!

After bowling seven overs from the ‘oldnets end’ at Gunton Oval on day one, Lehman bowled a further eight overs in his opening spell on day two – ending with figures of 3/34 off 15 – before handing over to Dylan Sutton for his six-over trundle.

The wickets of Alex Nooy (13) and Nathan Volpe (0), within three balls during Lehman’s opening spell, gave fore-warning of what was to come.

He second spell, well it was simply extraordinary.

Lehman took back the rock from Sutton for the 44th over of the Bulls innings and bowled the perfect 18-ball spell.

He started with nine dot balls, building pressure with an immaculate line and length, before trapping Travis Wheller (1) in front with an in-dipper.

It started a run of five wickets in nine balls, with a maiden, double-wicket maiden, and triple-wicket maiden Lehman’s figures for his last three-over spell of the match.

Incredible!

He clean bowled Leigh Paterson (0) – two balls after Wheller – before starting his hattrick run by repeating the dose on Lachlan Volpe (0).

He then trapped Dean Henwood (0) in front, before knocking over the castle of Cameron Stow (0) with a perfectly-executed inswinger.

“Off the top of my head, that spell of bowling is the best I’ve seen I reckon, an incredible spell and one we’ll look back on and remember forever,” Tooradin skipper Cal O’Hare said immediately after the match.

“He was cooked at the start, he actually said to me ‘take me off’, which he never says, and I asked him for one more and that’s when he got those two wickets in his first spell.

“But that second spell…he was hooping them in a mile and there was nothing they could do about it.

“A few of those balls were unplayable, it was an unbelievable spell of bowling.

“We actually spoke about it on Friday night, that he was the man for the job, and he delivered like he has so many times before.”

At the same time that O’Hare was praising his players for their sensational performance, Cardinia skipper Jake Prosser was unleashing his fury on a Bulls’ outfit that once again failed to deliver with the bat.

But the day…well it was all about one man.

Because, even by Russell Lehman’s extraordinarily high standards…this was a day to savour!

Tooradin star Russell Lehman walks from Gunton Oval after taking a hat-trick and 8/34 against Cardinia.

Pictures: DAVID NAGEL

Russell Lehman bowled the perfect three-over spell.

Eaton the first thrower of perfection

By David Nagel

It was big day for athletes from Pakenham Little Athletics.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Athletics Open Day a fantastic success Overcast conditions couldn’t stop Pakenham Little Athletics from showcasing some of its brightest young talent at the club’s inaugural Open Day at Toomuc Reserve on Sunday.

The grass track at Toomuc was a sea of colour with 270 athletes from 35 clubs running, jumping, and throwing their way to medal-winning performances.

18 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

Multiple personal bests were achieved and athletes finished the day feeling satisfied and accomplished.

Pakenham Little Athletics Secretary Bel Wouters said the day was well received by local athletes and those from other clubs.

“We had some big clubs turn up for the day, which was quite daunting, but they ab-

solutely loved it and gave us positive feedback,” Wouters said.

“It was a great fun day, the kids loved it and we’re very proud of how our first Open Day panned out.”

Those interested in joining Pakenham Little Athletics are free to contact Bel Wouters on 0493 536 915.

The South West Gippsland Dart League (SWGDL) is back up and running for the new year with the growth of the competition seeing 11 teams competing for this year’s title.

The SWGDL has continued to build in recent seasons, and a strengthened number of committee members this year is a clear indicator that the competition hasn’t stopped growing yet.

Moving the SWGDL headquarters to the Cardinia Club on Racecourse Road in Pakenham has attracted new teams and new members to the league.

The SWGDL welcomes a new team this season, with The Hoodies playing out of the Robin Hood Inn near Drouin.

Round one of competition saw some spectacular highlights with Paul Eaton from the Warriors throwing the first of what is sure to be many 180’s for the season.

Dean, a regular at the top of the leaderboard, threw seven tons for the evening, one clear of Noel from Pakyone, with Aaron, Ant and Tim all throwing five tons on the opening night of competition.

Tony from Just Social has the first 100-peg for the season, with his 106 the highlight finish of the night.

All five matches in round one were relatively one-sided, with Rebels, Warriors, Snipers, Just Social and Pakyone filling the top five places on the ladder.

The newest team to the competition – The Hoodies – will open their SWGDL journey this week after having a bye in round one.

Ladder: Rebels 14, Warriors 14, Snipers 12, Just Social 11, Pakyone 10, Gembrook 5, Bullseyes 4, Mud Rats 3, Fore 1, 26ers 1, The Hoodies 0. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Fresh start for Kangaroos

By Marcus Uhe New coaching group, new president, an injection of youth and a fresh set of eyes.

Things are going to look different at Officer Football Club this season under new coach Daniel Charles, and early indications have them pointing in the right direction.

2022 was a tough year for the ‘Roos, winning one game and dropping from Premier Division in the Outer East Football Netball League after senior coach Doug Koop was removed from his position in May. But Charles, a man with a decorated playing and coaching history at local level, isn’t concerned about what his new chargers have done before; He wants to know what they can bring this season.

“I’m coming in not knowing 95 per cent of the group, so I think a lot of them, whether they’ve been pigeonholed in the past, might see it as a fresh start,” Charles said.

“I didn’t ask for the club’s input because as soon as we start talking about players, the club (and this is every club), it’s always, ‘he’s a seconds player, he’s a thirds player, he’s a senior player.’

“I wanted to make my own mind up and all I’ve got to go on is their work-rate, efforts and whether they’re coachable or not during preseason.

“It’s a tactic for me to give blokes a go based on their efforts at training and not what they’ve been like in the past.” Charles and his assistants have had a minimum of 40 players and a maxi-

Daniel Charles (centre) will lead a coaching group including Trent Canute (left) and Scott Picture: SUPPLIED McGeagh. 317490 mum of 60 bounce into every training session to date, with a steady flow of juniors and under 19 players keen to ingratiate themselves into the club’s culture as they look to open their doors to the community. Youngsters such as Antonio Qauch, Angus Clavarino and Mason Binns, who all made the move to Starling Road from Berwick, and Zach Charles, have all made an excellent early impression on the track, while some of the club’s veterans in Brett Moloney and last year’s skipper Luke Smaluch continue to set the standards.

“Their attendance has been fantastic and

they’re some of the fittest down there,” Charles said. “Their workrate’s been great and their attendance has been great.

“I’m just hoping they can all play as well as they’ve been training, because if they can, it’s going to be an exciting year.”

Joining Charles in the coaches box are leaders who he has familiarity with, in Scott McGeagh, also joining from Berwick, Pakenham premiership players Travis Murphy and Craig McGrath, and Trent Canute.

While Canute will look after the under-19

program, a concerted effort is being made throughout the club to adopt a streamlined approach on Saturdays, to ensure minimal disruption to the side if they are befallen by injury or otherwise.

“He (Canute) knows that every team at the club is going to be running with the same structure, game-plan, terminology and everyone’s on the same page,” Charles said.

“It’s all about knowing what your roles and responsibilities are so that when you come up, you might not do it as flashy as the guy you’re replacing, but you can still do the same effective job and know exactly what needs to be done if we’re all on the same page.”

In new acquisitions such as key forward Mark Seedsman and running defender Luke Hagger, there’s fresh optimism ahead of their round one clash with Emerald on Saturday 15 April. And having sat-out of football coaching in 2022, Charles is as hungry as anyone to return ROC to the top.

“I did really miss coaching last year,” he said.

“I’m excited, I look forward to every Monday and Wednesday at the moment.

“As soon as Wednesday’s over I’m already thinking about Monday, where we can improve and what we can do, working with the other coaches. “My motivation is to develop and improve, but getting back into Premier Division, that’s the destination.

“We’re just focused on the journey at the moment.

Family fun Three generations of the Van Vugt family graced the bowling greens at Pakenham last Saturday. Patriarch John Van Vugt was in action for his club Cardinia Waters, whilst son Geoffrey and grandson Thomas played for Pakenham’s division one side against Bacchus Marsh.

John claimed the bragging rights on the day, with his rink winning by five shots against Pakenham’s second side.

Geoffrey’s rink also had a narrow three shot win, but unfortunately Thomas’s rink lost.

John lives in Cardinia Waters Retirement Village in Pakenham, while both Geoffrey and Thomas are Warragul residents.

-John Moore

From left, Thomas, John and Geoffrey Van Picture: SUPPLIED Vugt. 317358

Lions lassoed by Vikings as Bullants fight for survival

By David Nagel While former Pakenham all-rounder Russell Lehman was the headline act in CCCA Premier Division on Saturday – taking a hat-trick and 8/34 for Tooradin against Cardinia – the Lions themselves ran into a cyclone performance from Carlisle Park (6/344).

A glorious century from Shalika Karunanayake (111) - composed from just 92 balls and including 15 fours and two sixes – set the platform for the Vikings, while Ben Perry (121 off 212 balls) played a classic two-day innings to guide his side to the box-seat.

Perry came to the crease at 1/14 and departed with the score on 326, occupying the crease for 312 of his team’s 344 runs!

Perry was a shining star by the end of the day’s play, but only after he took a back seat to Karunanayake who made 111 of the pair’s 154run partnership for the third wicket.

Karunanayake (429) now sits second on the CCCA run-scoring list this season – behind Kooweerup’s Luke McMaster (459).

Saturday’s century was his second for the season, with his last five hits of 126, 3, 41, 69 and 111 giving an insight into the class that has seen him make thousands of runs abroad. Vikings skipper Anurudda Fonseka (50 off 64 balls) finished things off with a vibrant half-century, sharing a 103-run partnership with Perry that pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Jack James was one of five Officer batters to make at least 30 in the crucial clash with Clyde on Saturday. 303387 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS continued the Vikings’ momentum. This one is not over yet, with key Lions such as Dale Tormey and Chris Smith having the potential to match the heroics of Karunanayake and Perry and rein this one in…but it’s an almighty task!

The Vikings should salute and move to within one game of the top four. The bottom-ofthe-table clash between Clyde (0/5) and Officer (238) could not be more evenly poised after an absorbing battle on day one at Ramlegh Reserve on Saturday. For both teams, their seasons balance on a knife edge. The Cougars, last, on 30 points, but only one game behind the Bullants, Merinda Park and Carlisle Park – fifth to seventh

on the ladder – require victory to remove themselves from ‘relegation favouritism’.

A loss for Officer – seventh - would see them assume that unwanted title, but victory would well and truly keep their faint finals hopes alive.

Win this and the Bullants creep within one game of fourth-placed Cardinia, with the two teams to meet on the Bullants home deck at Starling Road in round 13. Given the Bulls capitulation against Tooradin over the Australia Day weekend…the Bullants would go in confident.

But first they need to defend a par score on a fast outfield at Ramlegh after wasting opportunities to really build a big one. Kane Hawkins (49), Darren Kneebone (42), Nick McLennan (40), Jack James (33) and Nick Whitelaw (32) all made significant contributions for the Bullants, but couldn’t kick on to match-defining scores.

Thanuja Senarathna (6/51 off 21.1 overs) was the clear standout for the Cougars, while Jacob Janssen (2/45) bowled beautifully in his second game up from A Grade.

Classy and imposing left-hand openers, Michael Vandort and Trevor Bauer with resume with the score at 0/5 on Saturday. Kooweerup (195) can thank its classy number-three Gamini Kumara (84) for posting a competitive score against a disciplined Merinda Park (0/1) attack at Donnelly Reserve on Saturday.

He arrived at the crease at 1/40 and was the last wicket to fall, guiding the Demons to a

more-than-competitive total against the most out-of-form batting side in the league. The Cobras are coming off totals of 106 and 103, so will need a remarkable turnaround – against a quality attack – to end a two-game losing streak. Kumara came to the crease after the departure of Luke McMaster (13) and built two crucial partnerships that saved the Demons from a poor day. After a stunning collapse of 4/4, which became 5/23, Kumara and Mitch Davey (24) put on a valuable 59-run stand for the sixth wicket.

Kumara and Jess Mathers (33) then added 60 for the eighth wicket, building a 7/122 scoreline to 8/182.

Mat Campbell (3/45 off 25) was clearly the pick of the bowling group for the Cobras – taking three quick wickets during the collapse - while Tyson Bertrand (3/37 off 12.2) claimed three of the top four scorers. The left-arm spinners of Sasindu Perera (1/45 off 19) were also important in keeping the run-rate under control. While Kooweerup appears safe in third position, a win for the Cobras will see them move within one game of the top four with games against Clyde and Pakenham to come. And for more on Lehman’s heroics, which saw Tooradin (121) defend its modest total against Cardinia (83), see page 18 of this week’s Pakenham News.

Ladder: Tooradin 126, Pakenham 114, Kooweerup 78, Cardinia 66, Merinda Park 42, Carlisle Park 42, Officer 42, Clyde 30.

Thursday, 2 February, 2023

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STAR NEWS 19

St Clare’s Catholic Primary School in Officer

Open Day Saturday 1 April

Our faith leads to wisdom and courage. ’s and is embedded in the ethos of the school, the curriculum we offer and the

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

School Tours Available

12586188-AI05-23

Please contact the school now to make a booking Ph 5940 6777 St Clare’s Primary School Officer Officer 3809 Phone 03 5940 6777 Email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au 20 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 2 February, 2023

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au