News - Berwick Star News - 16th March 2023

BERWICK

Thursday, 16 March, 2023

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Community festival a success

Case thrown out

Tigers triumph in Turf 2

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Rental rate headache

Pooch picnic More than 100 locals gathered in Clyde earlier this month to bond over their love of dogs.

Residents from Stockland Edgebrook, Stockland Minta, and Stockland Evergreen came together at Ashtead Street Dog Park to share a fun day with their neighbours and furry friends.

The event treated people and pooches alike to coffee and pastries, a Smooch-YourPooch Booth, a professional dog trainer and more.

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Rebecca and James Bortolus with their furry friends Fifi, Kenzie and Lilah.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Emergency relief The domino effect of the soaring cost of living continues to plague Casey residents, with local support services the latest to feel the pinch.

Executive officer at Community Information and Support Cranbourne (CISC), Leanne Petrides, said the organisation is operating at a deficit to keep up with demand for their services, which includes financial counselling and crisis support.

The not-for-profit is currently spending more than double its daily budget on crisis support, which provides struggling community members with food, fuel vouchers, baby goods and chemist prescriptions.

“We’re constantly looking at ways we can minimise costs and tighten our belts, but we have to balance that with supporting our vulnerable community members,” she said.

“The only way to do that is by operating at a

deficit and we can probably do that this financial year as we have had some extra funding come through.

“But it’s going to be very difficult moving forward.”

Stretched by a combination of the highest inflation in 30 years and a 10th consecutive interest rate hike, Ms Petrides estimates demand for the emergency relief service has increased by over 30 per cent in the last year, and with

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it, the scope of clients accessing the crisis support service is also broadening.

“We all know that cost of living increases are squeezing household budgets and what we’re actually seeing now is not only an increase in the number of people accessing our services… but we’re also seeing an increase in the number of people who are either new to the service or have never accessed services before.

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Households under pressure

By Emily Chapman Laing Housing stress continues to torment Casey residents, according to new data.

Data collected by Digital Finance Analytics (DFA) Principal Martin North reports 76.5 per cent of renters are in rental stress as of February 2023.

This shocking number comes as no surprise as rental property prices boom, with two bedroom homes in Clyde going for up to $500 per week, and family four-bedroom homes in Cranbourne reaching up to $900 per week.

A Facebook post asking locals about their housing situation exploded with tenants and landlords alike divulging their grievances.

“Our real estate has just increased our rent $130 per calendar month,” local resident Sabrina Rogers said. “[I] realised Cranbourne is getting too expensive and we won’t be able to afford to live here much longer.”

“The only place you will find less than $380 per week is the streets,” local woman Meryem Rustemi said.

“We were paying $400 per week and just moved out, and [the agents] have put [our house] on the market for $550 per week,” Botanic Ridge local Ashleigh Bradshaw said.

“Rent in my estate in Clyde North is $550$680 per week, yet the area doesn’t even have any reception at all, the schools are overfilled and the streets are jammed with traffic,” said resident Elizabeth Cook.

Rental increases are causing immense grief for tenants, especially those who have to front the additional costs while issues with their houses are ongoing.

“My rent went from $400 per week to $440,” local woman Jodie Cupiid said.

“We have no blinds, our ensuite was leaking causing mould and mushrooms to grow in the

Tenants and landlords continue to be at odds over rising housing prices. master bedroom, which caused me to get sick.

“We turned the heater on and it sparked a fire and shut down.

“We have kept the property clean and tidy and never ask for [the landlord] to fix small things, my hubby does that.

“Our toilet is faulty, our taps in the bathroom don’t turn off properly and the faulty heater hasn’t been removed either.

“We are working flat out now to buy our own little place.”

Ms Cupiid isn’t the only one facing the challenge of getting maintenance issues fixed.

The difficulty in getting simple and necessary maintenance around rental properties done seems an incessant issue.

“We didn’t ask our landlord to fix a lot of things, we did it ourselves and now rent is going up $100 per fortnight,” said Richard Hawkins.

“When we moved into our rental there was a trove of maintenance issues that we were told would be fixed immediately,” a local renter said.

Picture: GENERIC

“Almost a year later and we are still waiting, even though we have told the agent about it plenty of times.

“We have fixed what we can, but some things need professionals, which we shouldn’t have to pay for.

“We spend half our income on our house, we expect the landlords to keep things working.”

Being a homeowner isn’t smooth sailing either, local landlords say.

“Mortgages aren’t cheap. Everything is getting ridiculous, everywhere,” said local Olly Leo. “Everything associated with being a landlord has increased,” one landlord said.

“Not to mention most tenants want a mega mansion for ¼ of the price of mortgage repayments and can’t even do anything for themselves like put a door handle back on,” landlord Sarah Eccles said.

DFA data reports 35.7 per cent of borrowers in mortgage stress, and 48.2 per cent of house-

holds in financial stress.

These figures are supported by further data which shows that rental payments make up 34.2 per cent of local renters’ monthly disposable income, while mortgage repayments take a whopping 41.3 per cent.

According to the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, households are in housing affordability stress “when the household is paying more than 30 per cent of its income in housing costs”.

“Landlords pay all the agent fees, insurance, rates, etc, not to mention the out of pocket costs for safety checks, repairs and whatever the mortgage is,” Ms Eccles said.

Other residents have argued that the risks and costs associated with being a landlord shouldn’t affect the tenants.

“I’m a landlord of several properties and I made sure I could afford what I buy,” said Jessica Davis.

“I don’t expect my tenants to flip the bill when I can’t afford it. That’s just being a parasite.”

Unsurprisingly, members of the community who experience the least amount of housing-related stress are investors who have paid off their properties, with a housing stress percentage of 24 per cent, less than one third the percentage of renters.

While landlords confront the hoards of unhappy tenants, they continue to raise the paradoxical problem: that without landlords, there are no houses for tenants.

“If there were no investors buying rental properties there would be no housing,” said Val Aarts.

“We’re $1000 out of pocket as landlords since the rate hikes but haven’t increased the rent,” said local landlord Jacky Johnson.

“But without landlords where are the renters supposed to live?”

Speeding drivers nabbed during long weekend blitz

CISC executive officer Leanne Petrides said the not-for-profit’s financial counselling services get busier “every single day”. 179836

Emergency relief: More people seeking assistance From page 1 “We’re also seeing more people on wages, people who are working, and their wages are not making ends meet so they’re having to access support services to try to fill these gaps.

“Most people who access our financial counselling services are also wage earners some are juggling multiple debts just to try to keep afloat.”

The rise of buy now, pay later schemes, which allow customers to pay for items in multiple installments, is also proving to be a catch-22 for families finding it tough.

“We’re seeing more and more people who are juggling multiple buy now pay later schemes and even doing things like purchasing vouchers from the supermarket on Afterpay and then utilising them for food just to try to keep afloat, but unfortunately they are slowly, slowly sinking.”

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The organisation, which services residents in Cranbourne, Hampton Park, Clyde, Lynbrook and Tooradin, is at a critical juncture, Ms Petrides said, ahead of the Federal Budget in May. She said CISC will desperately need more emergency relief funding to keep up with demand in the next financial year.

“I can’t see [the issue] improving in the near future. I’ve been in this role for 24 years and this is certainly one of the most challenging times I’ve witnessed in terms of demand and juggling of multiple issues.

“The increasing complexity of issues that people are coming in with, and Covid exasperated that, with mental health, employment instability and family violence issues; if we’re looking at cost of living pressures, I predict it’s probably going to get worse for a couple of years.”

Almost 30 motorists in Casey were apprehended for speeding over the Labour Day long weekend, as Operation Arid ramped up enforcement across the state.

Across the Casey Police Service Area, speeding was by far the prominent offence for road users, with 29 motorists apprehended throughout the course of the long weekend.

Seven drink drivers, seven drug drivers and one combined drink and drug driver were caught by officers.

Seven motorists in Casey were caught driving while disqualified, as well as three unlicensed drivers, six unregistered vehicles and one impoundment, with police using automatic number plate recognition technology (ANPR) to detect the offences.

Two drivers were caught disobeying signs and signals, one for not wearing a seat belt and there was one pedestrian offence.

Police detected almost 7000 traffic offences during the four-day statewide road policing operation, following a shocking start to the year on Victoria’s roads.

There were 74 lives lost in the first 73 days of the year, which is 45 per cent higher than the same time last year and the five-year average – both 51.

Speeding, impaired driving, mobile phone use and unauthorised driving were the key issues detected by police during the four-day operation.

But Assistant Commissioner for Road Policing Glenn Weir said the majority of people obeyed the road rules over the long weekend.

“Considering it was a long weekend, with high traffic volumes and good weather, we saw the majority of people doing the right thing on our roads,” he said.

“Disappointingly though, we continue to detect motorists for the type of behaviour that’s been contributing to road trauma this year – that being speed, distraction, and impaired driving.”

Statewide, more than a third of offences detected related to speeding, with almost 80 per cent of speeding motorists detected between

The four-day operation saw Victoria Police officers target disobedient drivers across the state.

10km/h and 25km/h over the speed limit.

Mobile phone offences jumped 23 per cent from the last statewide operation in January, with 323 motorists caught using their phone while driving.

There were two lives lost on Victorian roads over the long weekend with fatal collisions in Barnawartha North on Saturday and Wangaratta on Monday.

There have been 11 lives lost to date in March, historically the highest-risk month on Victorian roads.

Asst Comm Weir said it is simply not good enough to ignore the warnings.

“Police are constantly engaging with the community to educate first and enforce when the message doesn’t get through and we make no apologies for this. We are doing everything we can to reduce trauma on our roads.”

“March is a busy time with footy returning, lots of major events and good weather – so if you’re out and about this month, you can expect us to be out too.”

Operation Arid ran from 12.01am on Friday 10 March to 23.59pm on Monday 13 March, 2023. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Another highway incident

By Eleanor Wilson A deadly stretch of highway in Berwick has again been the site of a collision, after a car struck a pedestrian in the early hours of Friday morning.

It is understood the collision occurred on Princes Highway, near Coniston Avenue, about 5am on Friday 10 March.

A male pedestrian, believed to be in his 30s, was taken to The Alfred hospital in a critical condition, suffering head injuries.

He remains in a critical, but stable condition as of Tuesday 14 March.

The male driver of the car stopped at the scene and detectives are working to establish the exact circumstances of the collision.

It is understood the collision occurred in the vicinity of the intersection that claimed the life of former Casey mayor and councillor Mick Morland in 2017.

Mr Morland was crossing the highway, near Wilson Botanic Park, on his nightly walk when he was struck by a passing car and killed.

His death sparked conversation within the community and local government about the safety of the highway, which is frequented by locals and visitors to gain access to Wilson Botanic Park.

The nearest pedestrians crossings from Wilson Botanic Park are roughly 700 metres in either direction.

In the lead up to the State election last year, Casey Council advocated to the State Government for traffic signals to be installed at the intersection and for street lighting to be upgraded on Princes Highway between William Road and York Road.

Berwick MP Brad Battin also came to the table on the issue, committing $2 million for traffic lights at the site, had the Liberals formed government.

While he was successful in his bid to claim

The intersection at Coniston Avenue and the Princes Highway is frequently used by pedestrians to access Wilson Botanic Park. 323963 Picture: ROB CAREW the seat of Berwick, the Liberal Party’s defeat at the State election means the commitment is currently off the cards.

But Mr Battin said he will continue to campaign to his colleagues in Parliament to improve the safety of the road.

“It’s a dangerous spot, we’ve been talking about this for a long period of time,” Mr Battin told Star News on Friday.

“The community knows, after the high profile death of Mick Morland, that we need to do something to fix this intersection.

“We committed to putting in lights, council agrees we need lights, the people dragging their feet is the Andrews Labor Government.

“If they had have done it when we knew the lights were required we wouldn’t have had another incident like today.

“Our thoughts are with the victim and family today and we hope and wish the critical condition improves.”

The State Government was contacted for comment.

Local resident Shaun Grewal, who spent last year campaigning for a set of lights at the intersection, said he was shocked to hear about the news of the collision.

“That’s exactly what we were scared of happening again and the reason we did the campaign - because we didn’t want another person to suffer through that experience,” he said.

“If there is a proper intersection there, we can save lives.”

Mr Grewal said he witnesses community members crossing the busy highway - a main arterial which sees thousands of motorists travelling at speeds of 80 km/h - on a

daily basis.

“I don’t have any personal gain - it’s just me seeing people every single day in the morning risking their lives, running crossing the roads, sometimes families with prams.

“We can’t keep ignoring it, I can’t imagine another tragedy happening - it’ll be too late to act again.”

Last year, a petition supporting calls for the lights, started by Mr Grewal and Mr Battin, garnered over 300 signatures from community members.

The petition is still open to signatures and can be found at bit.ly/3NIKkgP Anyone who witnessed the collision, has CCTV/dashcam footage or information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

Police suspect Hallam grassfires were ‘deliberately lit’ The fire was swiftly contained to a small patch of native shrubland, with Hampton Park CFA reporting about 10.30am that it was under control.

An FRV spokesperson said officers found “three points that were deliberately lit”.

“FRV referred this to Victoria Police.”

Emergency Victoria issued an advice message at 10.08am that the fire was not yet under control, but there was no threat to residents living next to the wooded reserve.

It advised residents in Dandenong South, Doveton, Endeavour Hills, Eumemmerring, Hallam and Narre Warren North to “stay informed and monitor conditions”.

“Smoke may be visible from nearby communities and roads.”

Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

A grassfire in Gunns Road Reserve, Hallam was swiftly brought under control by firefighters from across the South East.

Picture: HAMPTON PARK CFA FACEBOOK

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A series of deliberately-lit grass fires in a bushy reserve off Arcadia Avenue, Hallam is being investigated by Victoria Police.

Dandenong Crime Investigation Unit detectives say they are investigating three “suspicious“ fires in two days in Gunns Road Reserve, following reports of large amounts of smoke from a nearby walking track.

The first fire was reported about 4pm on Monday 13 March and two further fires occurred about 9am on Tuesday 14 March.

“Investigators believe that the fires were deliberately lit,” Victoria Police stated.

There was no reported damage to fences or buildings in nearby housing estates.

CFA and FRV firefighters from Hallam, Narre Warren, Narre Warren North, Rowville and Hampton Park were called to reported smoke from Gunns Road Reserve about 9.33am on Tuesday 14 March.

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Festival unites community

By Eleanor Wilson The Fountain Gate Primary School community had plenty of culture to share at its inaugural community festival on Friday 10 March.

A school assembly kicked off the festivities at 2.30pm, with a First Nations welcome song - Gari Gynda Narmi- performed by Year 1 and 2 students, followed by an electrifying Bollywood dance and Dari music performance.

Its first community festival, the event saw the school grounds filled with fun activities, from henna tattoo and face painting, to a petting zoo, AFL handball workshop, book expo and a free sausage sizzle provided by the Cranbourne Lions Club.

The afternoon was attended by Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson, who celebrated the success of the school’s ‘community hub’ part of the national Community Hubs Australia initiative.

The hub, one of five in Casey, supports culturally diverse families, particularly mothers with young children, to connect, share and learn within the school environment.

Established at the school in 2020, last year it serviced 89 families through a range of support activities, in collaboration with 13 different community organisations.

The Smith Family’s Community Hub support coordinator Jana Hovic, who works closely with community hubs in Casey and Dandenong, said the service is a great tool to connect young families through the school community.

“The idea of a hub is to create connections between the women but also between the school and the families,” she said.

“So when they’re little, people start in the hub, and they come to the playgroup, they have a bit of an exposure in the early years, then they do a transition program and then when they start school, they come equipped and so do the parents, they really understand the system.

“They understand how it works, how the school is run, what to expect and they can then engage with the school and there’s not that barrier where they’re not sure how they can really be part of the school community - which is really important, especially for our newly arrived families.”

The school’s community hub provides a scope of services and activities for young ones and their mums, including child-minding services, English classes, a play group and sewing group.

Families can also access allied health support from Monash Health, Sing and Grow music therapy and assistance from the Adult Migrant English Program.

“It’s a big partnership project between the parents coming to the hub, the hub leaders, the school, the teachers, have them all coming together and all the support agencies do an amazing job,” Ms Hovic said.

The hub would not thrive without the hard work of hub leader Naz Ramjaun, Ms Hovic said, who worked hard to realise the community festival.

“She works tirelessly to ensure our families have the opportunity to engage with each other and they learn in the process, which is great.”

The Cranbourne Lions Club had mouths watering with a free sausage sizzle.

Melah and Ava get their feed ready to give to the ducks.

Elsie and Isla got crafty at the art station, in celebration of Harmony Day next week.

Jayden feeds a duck at the festival’s petting zoo.

Sarina’s favourite animal was the bunny rabbit.

Saorianna and Shaniah enjoyed the sunny afternoon.

Dari music performer Amanullah Shefa enlivened the festival with a range of tunes.

Budhara got into the festival spirit at the face painting stand.

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Jail for carjacking and guns

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Narre Warren carjacker with a “plethora” of guns stashed at home and work has been jailed.

Jamie David Rundle, 24, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court as being part of a “vicious” and “terrifying” carjacking on the Eastern Freeway in November 2019.

In a stolen Nissan SUV, Rundle aggressively overtook a Mercedes and then slowed, causing a collision and forcing the Mercedes off the road.

Two unknown men got out of the SUV, one pointing a long-arm at the victim and striking him with the gun butt to the head.

One of them drove away with the Mercedes, while Rundle ferried the second carjacker away in the Nissan.

The “traumatised” victim was treated in hospital. Three years on, he remains “scarred” and “fearful”, sentencing judge Gregory Lyon noted on 14 March.

Prosecutors accepted that Rundle did not know his co-offender was armed or that the victim would be assaulted.

But he played “no small role” as the driver.

He later tried to sell the Mercedes – with stolen number-plates – for cash and drugs, the judge noted.

During Rundle’s arrest at his mother’s home, the Mercedes’ plates and the victim’s phone were found in his bedroom along with a pump-action rifle, Taser, sword, an array of ammunition and some meth.

Rundle gave police either no comment

A partially-constructed homemade gun seized from Rundle’s factory. or “implausible” explanations for the items, Judge Lyon said.

Judge Lyon said the later-discovered stashes of guns and ammo at Rundle’s commercial factory in Hallam in 2022 were even more serious.

At the time, Rundle was subject to a firearm prohibition order, a CCO and bail.

Judge Lyon said it was “disturbing” that two of the hidden guns were home-made, including a .38 calibre revolver with a detached loaded chamber and capable of firing.

Also seized were a 12-gauge double-barrel shotgun, a .303 calibre rifle, gel-ball gun and a partially-constructed home-made firearm as

well as 200 rounds of variouscalibre ammunition. Rundle was also charged with possessing suspected stolen goods and proceeds of crime such as two computers, bankcards, a passport and two fake $50 notes.

About 19 grams of meth was also found.

Without evidence of trafficking, the drug was deemed for Rundle’s personal use.

Rundle told a psychologist that he kept the weapons in self-protection, claiming he was shot in the back as a 19-year-old by a masked assailant.

Judge Lyon noted he was given “almost no detail” about this attack, and didn’t know if a police report was even made.

Rundle’s parents and character referees made no mention of the attack.

The “plethora” of guns and ammunition were more likely “accoutrements” to Rundle’s criminal activity, Judge Lyon stated.

Several guns stashed in an office’s roof cavity were clearly not for “immediate protection”.

In mitigation, Rundle was still young, had strong family support, a lack of criminal priors and good rehabilitation prospects if he could address his abuse of meth and GHB. He was also diagnosed with major depression, anxiety as well as PTSD stemming from the purported shooting.

Rundle was jailed for up to three years and nine months, including 404 days already served in pre-sentence custody.

He will be eligible for parole after serving 28 months.

Applications now open for Casey’s leadership program The City of Casey’s Community Leadership Program (CLP) is back for its third year - providing free training for new, emerging and existing community leaders in Casey who want to build their leadership skills and learn about community engagement and local government.

First launched in 2021, the annual program aims to support Casey residents aged 18 and over, who have a desire to make a difference and engage in community life.

With many previous program graduates going on to develop highly successful and beneficial community programs, City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM is looking forward to meeting and supporting this year’s participants.

“Council is committed to empowering Casey’s leaders now and into the future. This program greatly benefits individual participants and their community groups, as well as our wider community through strengthening networks and local democracy,” Ms Duff said.

“Having delivered the program for the last two years, council has seen a diverse range of passionate and dedicated individuals com-

how local government · Understanding works and how to contribute to the democratic process.

governance, decision-making, proj· Good ect planning and goal setting. the conclusion of the program, gradu· At ates will have the chance to participate in

Participant’s in Casey’s 2022 Community Leadership Program. Picture: CITY OF CASEY plete the program and go on to deliver many successful programs for the community.”

This year’s program will run from May until October 2023 with face-to-face workshops held on Saturdays and Tuesday evenings.

The workshops will cover: Leadership styles, personal and community leadership.

Communication and presentation skills.

Building community capacity, working with volunteers and local resources, and networking.

· · ·

ongoing networking opportunities where they can gain practical experience in leading community and council-supported projects.

Having completed the program last year, graduates Lisa Hester, Ali Sherazee and Marita Wilson shared their experience.

“The Community Leadership Program quite literally changed the trajectory of my career,” Lisa said.

“Since completing the program I have moved onto bigger and better things and now run a community project within the South Metro region which has been a longtime dream of mine.”

Ms Sherazee said the program gives an aerial view of the dynamics of the society they would be leading, whilst gaining valuable insight at grassroots level.

Ms Wilson said the program covered more

content than her Diploma of Community Development.

“The program content has been well thought out and relevant to provide a holistic understanding of Casey Council’s role and plans for the community.

“The most exciting part is the chance to meet and learn with like-minded, culturally diverse people who are determined to make a difference in the community.”

Expressions of interest open from Monday 13 March until 5pm on Thursday 13 April. The selection process will include an informal interview and a maximum of 30 participants will be selected to participate in the program.

The program aims to represent Casey’s diversity and is inclusive of all genders, age groups, abilities, Aboriginality, cultures, linguistic backgrounds, sexual orientation, education and employment status. The recruitment of participants will aim to reflect diversity in Casey.

For more information and to apply, please visit the Casey Conversations website. For application support, please email caseyclp@ casey.vic.gov.au or call 9705 5722.

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OPINION

Health study

LENSCAPE

Women aged 18 to 65 are invited to participate in a research project which is investigating how physical activity levels for women in the City of Casey can be improved.

Federation University and the City of Casey want to hear from women, including women from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, who are not active on a regular basis about what is holding you back from being physically active.

As a thank you, each participant will receive a $50 gift card, plus vouchers to access various physical activities in the City of Casey.

To register your interest and to find out more information, please email project leader, Dr Meghan Casey at m.casey@federation.edu. au

Car flipped A woman was taken to the Alfred after a car flipped in Botanic Ridge around 4am, Sunday 12 March.

Ambulance Victoria was called to the scene, where paramedics treated a woman in her 40s.

An Ambulance Victoria spokesperson confirmed the woman was taken to the Alfred Hospital in a stable condition for observation.

The car struck a tree before ending up back on the road upside down.

Two CFA units were reported to be present, as well as two Ambulance Victoria vehicles and multiple Victoria Police respondents.

It is unclear if there were any other individuals in the vehicle.

Cranbourne Meadows players watching the game at Glover Recreation Reserve, Devon Meadows. 323675

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up

Firearms bust Southern Metro Divisional Response Unit have charged two men in possession of firearms and drugs.

Officers observed a Toyota utility travelling along Princes Highway just after midnight Tuesday 7 March.

The ute was intercepted shortly after in Gardiner Avenue and the vehicle was searched by police.

During the search, police allegedly located three firearms, a taser device, methylamphetamine, heroin, cash and bank cards.

The two men, both from Dandenong North, were arrested at the scene.

The driver, a 40-year-old man, was charged with multiple offences including possession of a general category handgun, possession of an unregistered longarm, possession of heroine and possession of methylamphetamine, among others.

He was bailed to appear before the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 25 May, 2023.

A 31-year-old man was issued with a drug diversion for the offence of possess methylamphetamine.

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Thursday, 16 March, 2023

For Bunjil Place food festival events every Friday night month of March 5.30 till 9.30 pm - next Friday Europe and the last one African - last week was Australiasian - catering for our diverse cultural groups that make up the city of Casey.

Thumbs down To still trying to reach an agreement for the compulsory acquisition of my house over a year ago!

Thumbs down To investors buying up homes in established areas demanding this and that, not caring they block your entrance in and out or the noise and the mess left on the road - no letter to say sorry for the inconvenience.

Thumbs up To all the hard-working Clean Up Australia Lynbrook volunteers who did a great job cleaning up our parks and waterways.

Thumbs up To our dog who surprised the hell out of us when she jumped into our local swampy lake and turned out to be a really strong swimmer! Covered in muddy swamp water but totally worth it to see her having fun.

Thumbs up To our amazing community who support the EVERY1 community cafe every Thursday at Amstel Club.

Thumbs up

Thumbs up

Thumbs down

To all who cleaned up the park and all of the rubbish, thank you.

Finally the lights are working on Glasscocks Road.

To bullies tracking down kids after school. Time for some Gran Torino style intervention.

NEWS

Bill-busting rebate

By Eleanor Wilson Community support services are encouraging Casey residents to make the most of the current round of the State Government’s Power Saving Bonus program, with applications closing in less than two weeks’ time.

Chief executive at Community Information and Support Cranbourne (CISC), Leanne Petrides, said it is a critical time to cash in on the $250 payment, which will close to applications at midnight on Thursday 23 March.

“We want to make sure that every single person who is eligible can actually receive that money in their bank account,” Ms Petrides said.

The Power Saving Bonus offers a once-off $250 payment to every household in the state with a recent electricity bill.

In order to be eligible for the cash, you must be the account holder for your household electricity bill and visit the Victorian Energy Compare website or engage with an energy affordability service through a participating community outreach partner.

Once an application has been submitted, an email will be received in about 10 days with an update on the payment.

Casey residents have less than two weeks to secure a $250 payment by applying for the State Government’s Power Saving Bonus program.

Picture: SUPPLIED For successful applicants, the $250 payment should be transferred to the nominated bank account within 3-15 business days.

If you’ve selected to receive a bank cheque, this may take up to 20 business days to arrive.

“Now is a really critical time to apply because households can apply for the current round until 23 March and then once the new round opens the following day, they can apply for that around as well,” Ms Petrides said.

“That’s potentially an extra $500 in your bank account, which can make a big difference in easing the stress on household budgets.”

The handout will be re-opened to all eligible Victorian households from 24 March, including those that received payments under previous rounds.

Since the first round of the $250 Power Saving Bonus launched on 1 July 2022, more than 1.7 million households have received the benefit.

But Ms Petrides said about half of households in Casey’s South are yet to claim the funds.

“That’s a significant amount of people who could be receiving this financial support, which is why we’re trying to make sure we have this conversation with people.”

CISC is currently offering free appointments two days a week for residents who may need assistance in applying for the bonus.

“All you need to do is bring your most current electricity bill and within a few weeks you’ll have the money in your account.”

To find out more about how to apply for the $250 Power Saving Bonus, contact CISC on 5996 3333. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Become a foster carer

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berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 16 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 7

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Tooradin Dalmore Pony Club vice president Claire Wilson

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I have a twin brother. I am 10 minutes older. In 1975, they had male as the elder of twins. But I was born first.

What do you love the most about horses?

Funny, I love their smell, I’m sure only horse people understand this. Oh, and giving them a kiss on the muzzle.

What are you most passionate about?

My daily yoga practice. Morning is best to clear for the day. And of course my love of horses.

What would your last meal be?

Roast pumpkin salad covered in roasted cashews and halloumi. White wine and some after dinner chocolates.

What was your most memorable moment?

Holding my daughter for the first time.

What were your favourite subjects in school?

Photography, media, art and design subjects.

What event, past or present, would you like to witness?

Watching Charlotte Dujardin win Gold in the Individual Dressage, London 2012 Olympics.

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

I would like to have dinner with my 16-yearold self. And also invite my Mum when she was 16, my daughter who is 16, and my three sisters all when they were 16.

What are you currently listening to/watching or reading?

De La Soul Essentials, I have been waiting for the hip-hop artists to have their music released on Apple Music. The music hit streaming on 3 March, 34 years after their 1989 debut album.

How would you describe your fashion sense?

Melbourne Black. Although I do add colour to match my mood.

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

My forever horse Dr Watson, dapple grey TB. I

Claire’s love of horses began at a young age. purchased him when I was 16 and he passed when I was 33 years old. He was my go-to in my teenage years, early adulthood and motherhood.

If you had to compete on MasterChef, what

Picture: SUPPLIED dish would you cook?

Corn fritters with avocado salsa.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

I dream of a road trip through the middle of Australia for three months with the family.

THREE … ways to eliminate plastics

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Carry a reusable water bottle Around 481.6 billion plastic bottles are used worldwide every year. Switch to a reusable bottle and fill up as you go. If you enjoy filtered water, grab yourself a bottle with a built in filter straw to keep you hydrated and healthy.

2

Buy loose produce Avoid plastic in the kitchen by choosing loose produce over produce pre-wrapped in plastic. A study conducted by sustainability charity WRAP debunked the claim that plastic-wrapped produce lasts longer, and showed it often forces us to buy more than we need. Opt instead for loose fruits and veggies. Local farmers markets are great places to grab quality produce without the plastic.

3

Reuse your jars Choosing to buy condiments, sauces and oils in jars rather than plastic containers allows you to save on plastic waste, while also giving you handy vessels to use in bulk-food stores, where you can fill your jars with things like dish soap, laundry liquid, shampoo, oils, nuts, beans and more.

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berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 16 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 9

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Health during menopause Menopause is the natural biological process where the menstrual period of women stops.

Besides the physical and hormonal changes that women go through, menopause can also cause a toll on their mental health. Menopause is not the same experience for every woman.

Some have to endure the myriad of changes and face a painful ordeal, while others are fortunate enough to not have to go through the wrath of mental and physical changes.

During menopause, maintaining a diet that is rich in nutrition is important. Women at this age suffer from low iron and calcium which can lead to complications that could be extremely detrimental to their health. So, calcium and iron intake cannot be ignored, rather paid extra attention to. Dairy products can meet the calcium needs; two to four servings of dairy products like cheese, milk and calcium high foods should be taken.

Adding to that, focusing on the greens is extremely important. It is even more important now as the greens are packed with antioxidants, minerals and fiber. Protein must be included in your diet and lean towards lean leaner meats so that you get the required nutrition without gaining too much weight. Some lean protein can be grilled chicken, tuna, turkey, beef etc.

Some foods, salty and spicy foods, are advised to be avoided or taken in moderation as they can worsen the menopause symptoms and make you feel worse. In some women it has been seen that spicy foods sometimes make hot flashes much worse.

Better Health Family Clinic is located at 127-129 Somerville Road in Hampton Park. 176100 Moreover, alcohol and caffeine intake should be limited as much as possible as it has been demonstrated that drinking too much coffee can exacerbate heat waves. Try giving up that evening glass of wine to see if your symptoms get better if you have extreme hot flashes, night sweats, and difficulties sleeping.

Walking and yoga are highly recommended as these are the easiest ways to get your limbs moving. Both of these exercises are great for your physical and mental health. Exercises like pilates can also help with pain management,

ease joint pains and strengthen your muscles.

Headaches and migraines are also commonly faced by women during this time. This also occurs due to the fluctuation of hormone levels. Unfortunately, there are no foolproof ways to get rid of these painful symptoms, however a healthy diet which is not dairy heavy and a stressfree daily life can ease the pain.

Menopause is an extremely crucial time for women. Each woman is unique and so experi-

ences during this time can vary as well. If your symptoms are severe and disrupt your daily activities, consult a doctor and get on treatment. Menopause can be excruciatingly painful for some which is not ordinary. Taking care of your body during this time and listening to it can help you live a long and healthy life free from complications.

Speak to us for more information, call (03) 9702 9300 or book online at https://betterhealthfamilyclinic.com.au.

Foot, heel or arch pain? treatments and cortisone are often incorrectly prescribed, which can result in worsening this condition.

“Most foot, heel and arch pain occurs when the plantar fascia (connective tissues running along the bottom of the foot) becomes overloaded, resulting in degeneration of the tissues and/or irritation of the nerves.

These conditions are not inflammatory in nature, so should not be treated as such and this is where misdiagnosis often initiates.

Most foot, heel and arch pain is a result of faulty foot function or lower limb biomechanics and environmental factors, and that is what needs to be treated - not inflammation.

Degenerative and inflammatory conditions require very different treatment, so they must be diagnosed and treated correctly to achieve long-term healing,” Dr. Dowie explains.

If you’d like expert advice about any foot, knee or leg pain, you can book an appointment with Dr. Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinic in Berwick. Call 1300 328 300.

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Foot, heel and arch pain are extremely common yet there is much misinformation about these conditions often leading to misdiagnosis, resulting in incorrect or inappropriate treatment.

We spoke to one of Australia’s most experienced foot, knee and leg pain experts and Musculoskeletal Podiatrists, Dr. Paul Dowie from Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, who provided some insight.

“All foot and leg pain needs to be diagnosed and managed correctly by determining the contributing factors, not by simply addressing the symptoms. Even your local GP, orthotist or general podiatrist may not be the best practitioner to diagnose and treat foot and leg pain and injury, as their scope of practice tends to be more generalized and not specific to lower limb musculoskeletal medicine.”

With over 25 years experience, Dr. Dowie explains that ‘Plantar Fasciitis’ is one of the most common misdiagnosed foot complaints. One common reason for misdiagnosis is when tissue thickening evident on diagnostic scans is misinterpreted as inflammation. In such cases anti-inflammatory

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FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

Kick the cavity causes Even if you brush your teeth twice and floss once daily, many habits could still be putting you at high risk for cavities.

Cavities form when bacteria, sugar and acid combine inside your mouth.

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Some common factors (and habits) that put one at high risk for cavities include Consuming alcohol, the acidity levels are highly prejudicial for tooth enamel.

As well as the development of dry mouth - which creates a favourable environment for plaque-causing bacteria to thrive.

Tobacco use is another common cause of dry mouth, also leading to stained, yellowish, discoloured teeth.

Having a poor diet deprives you of key nutrients (like phosphorus and calcium) that are integral to keeping strong, healthy teeth.

Age (and some medications) weakens tooth enamel, thus increasing the risk for cavities.

Also, older patients tend to suffer from gum recession, which leaves teeth more exposed and vulnerable to bacteria attacks.

Other than following a thorough daily oral health routine, you can reduce the risk of cavities by keeping up with regular dental checkups.

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STAR NEWS 11

NEWS

‘Unfair’ to proceed again

By Cam Lucadou-Wells The boss of a Cranbourne truck-driver who fatally struck down four police officers has been granted a permanent stay from prosecution in the Supreme Court of Victoria.

On 3 March, judge Lex Lasry granted the stay after what he termed a “glaring and oppressive misuse of the court process” by prosecutors against the accused Simiona Tuteru.

A supervisor at Lyndhurst-based Connect Logistics, Mr Tuteru had been initially facing four manslaughter charges – as well as 72 charges under the Heavy Vehicle National Law – over driver Mohinder Singh’s fatal crash on 22 April 2020.

That evening, Singh’s heavy vehicle crashed into two parked police cars and an intercepted Porsche on the side of the Eastern Freeway, killing police officers Lynette Taylor, Glen Humphris, Kevin King, and Joshua Prestney.

Two and a half years on, the Director of Public Prosecution dropped the manslaughter charges against Mr Tuteru after Justice Lasry raised questions about its case.

“I was informed that no explanation would be provided to the court and that the (DPP) did not feel that one was called for,” Justice Lasry stated.

“The indifference to, and lack of respect for, the court that attitude expresses is significant.”

The DPP went ahead with new charges under Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) that were “fundamentally altered on several occasions”, Justice Lasry stated.

Mr Tuteru’s barrister David Hallowes SC submitted the prosecution was a “constantly evolving, moveable feast”.

After three years of “relentless deviations and variations” to his case, his client was still not informed on the “nature and substance of the criminal charges he faces”.

Justice Lasry ruled that it was “unfair” to

Simonia Tuteru. proceed with a fourth attempted indictment against Mr Tuteru.

He described the prosecution’s pursuit of manslaughter charges for more than a year “when it must have known there was no viable case” as a “glaring and oppressive misuse of the court process”.

“In my opinion, the court’s processes have been, at a minimum, used oppressively and unfairly by the Director of Public Prosecutions at various stages of this case.”

Justice Lasry said this outweighed the considerable public interest in proceeding to trial.

“At some point, the court must draw a line in order to protect its process from the prospect of ongoing abuse.”

He said if not for the DPP’s handling of the case, the charges could have been heard in a magistrates’ court two years ago.

Asked if the DPP would appeal, a spokesperson stated after the hearing: “We are considering our position with respect to that mat-

ter, and have no further comment to make at this time.”

In 2021, Singh pleaded guilty to culpable driving whilst under the influence of drugs, as well as to trafficking cannabis, methylamphetamine and 1,4-butanediol and possessing diazepam.

After he appealed against his initial sentence, Singh was jailed for 18-and-a-half years, with a non-parole period of 14-and-a-half years.

Lysterfield Lake tragedy prompts water safety reminder Water safety is once again being highlighted, following the death of a paddle boarder at Lysterfield Lake earlier this month.

A 38-year-old man was found on Sunday 5 March, having drowned in the lake the previous day.

Parks Victoria have commented on the incident, noting that additional water safety signage and fencing were added to the lake following a 2015 report from Life Saving Victoria (LSV).

“Everyone at Parks Victoria is saddened by this incident and we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the man who died,” an LSV spokesperson said.

“We have implemented the recommendations of a Life Saving Victoria report from 2015 to improve public safety and information at Lysterfield.

“This included the installation of additional water safety signage, fencing and annual summer safety events at the lake.”

Despite the recommended additions, water safety incidents continue to manifest.

Life Saving Victoria area lifesaving manager Liam O’Callahgan said that while LSV was not involved in the incident, it is a tragic reminder “to be aware of and prepared for the risks associated with inland waterways”.

“LSV extends its heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of a man who fatally drowned at Lysterfield Lake on Saturday 4 March,” Mr O’Callaghan said.

Water safety recommendations are crucial in avoiding heartbreaking accidents, Mr O’Callaghan said.

“This includes assessing potential risks and whether you have the skills to safely recreate in, on or around that body of water, never swimming or recreating alone, wearing a lifejacket and being aware of hazards such as hidden currents, debris, sudden depth changes and slippery or unstable edges.”

Inland waterways have accounted for 38 per cent of 42 drownings since 1 July 2022.

In recent years, LSV has provided risk assessment services and mitigation recom12 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 March, 2023

Safety signage was installed at Lysterfield Lake following a 2015 report. mendations for Lysterfield Lake, including signage and education.

On 26 January 2023, LSV trialled placing lifeguards at four at-risk inland waterways, including Lysterfield Lake, targeting the higher risk period that coincided with the public holiday.

“Drowning prevention is a shared responsibility, rescue is the last line of defence and one LSV would rather not have to use, so it is important to remember your safety is your responsibility,” Mr O’Callaghan said.

“You need to be aware of your own skills and assess if they match the waterway you plan on recreating at; never swim alone, wear a lifejacket if boating or fishing, and always keep children under constant, active supervision.”

Life Saving Victoria is urging holidaymakers relaxing by the water to never relax on water safety, as alarming statistics show Victorians are 68 per cent more likely to drown on a public holiday than any other day of the year.

Sadly, 42 people have drowned in Victorian waters between 1 July 2022 and 7 March 2023, a number LSV does not want to see grow.

LSV general manager Paul Shannon re-

minded the public there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones, so your holiday does not end in tragedy.

“During the four days from Christmas Day, Victoria experienced its highest drowning period in 18 years, a trend we do not want to see repeated,” Mr Shannon said.

“This is why we encourage those heading to the water to swim between the red and yellow flags at a patrolled location wherever possible, never swim alone, actively supervise children and remember alcohol and water-related activities do not mix.”

Mr Shannon also cautioned those swimming or recreating in or near inland waterways of the potential hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface.

“This year, 38 per cent of all drownings occurred in inland waterways, compared with 36 per cent around the home or other bodies of water and 26 per cent in coastal waterways,” he said.

“Just because inland waterways look calm, does not mean there is no danger. There can be hidden hazards such as currents, snags or other debris, sudden drop offs and unstable edges.

“If you’re spending time by a river, lake,

dam, creek or stream and plan on swimming, evaluate your skills and if they match the potential risks, enter feet first and slowly and if boating, paddling or fishing always wear a lifejacket to buy you time to survive if you do end up in the water.”

Even if you don’t intend to enter the water, Mr Shannon said it is imperative to be aware and prepared for all possible outcomes.

“Accidental entry into water has accounted for 41 per cent of fatal drownings in the past decade, which is why you can never be too careful when walking, or camping or recreating near water,” he said.

“Never take your eyes off little ones, we know children are curious, so keep under 5s in arm’s reach and under 10s in your constant and direct eyeline.

“It takes just 20 seconds and a few centimetres of water for a child to drown.

“Also be aware when walking by water of unstable rocks or slippery edges. Wear gripped shoes, don’t get too close to the edge, and familiarise yourself with and follow local signage.

“While anyone can drown, no one should, so please, keep water safety at the front of your mind.” berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Know heart attack signs New research has found one in five adults in Australia can’t name any heart attack symptoms, and only around half report chest pain as a symptom.

While Casey sits below the national average for heart-related hospital admissions and heart disease mortality, it is crucial that locals remain vigilant and knowledgeable.

Casey residents rank higher when looking at risk factors, such as insufficient exercise, smoking, high blood pressure and obesity.

Over 70 per cent of Casey residents do an insufficient amount of exercise, which increases the likelihood of locals experiencing heart complications.

Obesity rates are also slightly higher than the national average of 31.3 per cent with Casey reporting an obesity rate of 34.1 per cent.

Casey matches the national average in terms of smoking (15.1 per cent and high blood pressure (22.8 per cent).

A Monash University-led project reports that awareness of heart attack symptoms declined significantly in the years following the Heat Foundation’s Warning Signs campaign.

Awareness of chest pain as a heart attack symptom fell from 80 per cent in 2010 to 57 per cent in 2020.

The proportion of respondents who could not name a single heart symptom increased from four per cent to 20 per cent.

Lead author Associate Professor Janet Bray, of the Monash University School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, said the findings were “very alarming” and new approaches were needed to ensure people acted appropriately if symptoms occurred.

Associate Professor Bray said time was critical.

“Every minute, more heart muscle dies and the chance of complications like cardiac arrest increases,” she said.

Twice as many men experience heart attacks than women.

Picture: GENERIC “Every Australian should be able to recognise heart attack symptoms and the need to respond quickly and call Triple Zero for an ambulance.”

The findings helped prompt the Heart Matters study, an NHMRC-funded partnership between Monash University, the Heart Foundation, Ambulance Victoria and the Victorian Government Department of Health.

The trial is working to improve heart attack awareness in eight high-risk local government areas.

Heart Foundation manager clinical evi-

dence, Dr Amanda Buttery, said Heart Matters aimed to improve personal risk awareness, heart symptom awareness and ambulance use in areas with known high heart attack rates and low ambulance use.

“It involves community education sessions and reaching groups with known low warning sign awareness and ambulance use,” she said.

Associate Professor Bray said some people in Australia were “definitely” at risk of serious illness or death due to their lack of heart attack knowledge.

She said awareness was unlikely to have improved in the time since the study finished in 2020, as public health messaging has been focused on COVID. “A heart attack occurs due to a blockage in an artery in the heart, which means blood and oxygen can’t get to part of the heart and that part starts to die,” she said.

“We have treatments in hospital that can reopen the blocked artery, and the quicker this can be done the less heart muscle that dies.

“This is why we need the public to know heart attack symptoms and to call an ambulance.

“Calling an ambulance allows treatment to start immediately and ensures that they can be taken to a hospital that offers the right treatment.”

Ambulance Victoria paramedic and acting director of research and evaluation, Dr Ziad Nehme, welcomed the findings of the study.

“Our paramedics attend almost 60,000 patients every year with suspected heart attack symptoms, such as chest pain,” said Dr Nehme.

“Paramedics are best placed to diagnose and treat heart attacks in the community and are equipped to administer life-saving medications that can open a blocked artery in the heart.

“Recognising your symptoms early and

calling Triple Zero (000) can make all the difference to your recovery.”

Every year 56,700 Australians have a heart attack or angina, equating to 155 events every day.

Twice as many men experience heart attacks as women, and considerably more men die, with 93 per cent more men being admitted to hospital for heart attacks than women.

However, Heart Foundation manager clinical evidence Dr Amanda Buttery says that while chest pain is the most common heart attack symptom in both women and men, women are more likely than men to experience non-chest pain symptoms.

Dr Buttery says women are more likely to experience heart attack warning signs such as nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, cold sweats and pain or discomfort in the jaw, shoulders, arms or back.

These are symptoms that can be mistaken for conditions such as the flu, overexertion, indigestion or just feeling run down rather than a life-threatening heart attack.

It is vital Australians are aware of these symptoms and seek appropriate help.

Heart attacks cause almost one in 25 deaths.

This equates to one person every 81 minutes, or on average 18 people every day.

Positively, the prevalence of heart attacks has been decreasing over time.

Warning signs of a heart attack are important to recognise.

You may experience pain, pressure or tightness in one or more of these areas: chest, arm/s, shoulder/s or back, neck or jaw.

You may also feel short of breath, dizzy, sweaty or sick.

If you experience these symptoms, tell someone how you feel.

If you are feeling worse or not better after 10 minutes, call triple zero (000).

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berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 16 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Neighbours gathered to bond over their shared love of dogs.

Blaine Healy and Angie Meyer share big smiles with their dog.

Dogs tested their skills with an agility course.

Pooches enjoy a day out More than 100 locals gathered over the weekend to bond over their love of dogs.

Residents from Stockland Edgebrook, Stockland Minta, and Stockland Evergreen came together at Ashtead Street Dog Park to share a fun day with their neighbours and “best friends”.

The free event, held on Saturday 4 March, treated people and pooches alike to coffee and pastries, a Smooch-Your-Pooch Booth, a professional dog trainer and more.

Pups and their humans were treated to lots of running around, a photo booth, music, dress-ups, an agility course and of course treats and puppuccinos, of both the dog and human variety.

Residents delighted in the doggy treat bar and the best dressed doggy competition with Stockland local Rebecca Bortolus praising the event.

“Dogs are just as much part of the family as children are these days, and it was great to have an event that included them in the fun,” she said.

“We had a great time watching our girls make new doggy friends, eat treats and run the agility course.

“Yet another fantastic Stockland event in

Stockland’s canine residents were the stars of the show.

A best dressed doggy competition was held, with pups presented in their finest garb.

A selection of dog treats were available to get the pooches excited.

our community.”

Stockland project director Kerry Balci said Stockland’s events and initiatives help people to connect and fast-track that community feel.

“Our customers look for communities that are welcoming and inclusive,” she said.

“We want to make sure our residents living in every Stockland community are living their best life, which is why we don’t just talk about liveability, we measure it.

“It’s how we know our residents love where they live – and how we find ways to keep improving the lifestyle experience in our communities.”

Millie had a great time at the park.

Stockland pups made some new friends.

It starts with women: Recognising inspirational volunteers

By Tanya Faulkner Trust, talking and touching is what brings women together.

That’s according to a recent International Women’s Day award winner from the Women’s Interfaith Network (WIN) Foundation, held at Narre Warren South’s Oakgrove Community Centre on Wednesday 8 March.

In its first year celebrating the occasion with a public awards ceremony, WIN presented 23 women from in and around Casey with an award recognising them for their voluntary work in the community.

The awards were presented to women who work or reside within the Casey area, from all different walks of life, who dedicate themselves to their volunteer work and stand as an inspiration to the wider community.

Recipient Barbara Bendarski said she was shocked to have been nominated for the award, but also felt proud to have been recognised after almost 30 years of volunteer work.

For Ms Bendarski, International Women’s Day is about connecting and inspiring other women, and enjoys being able to spend time supporting others in the community.

“It’s a day to reflect on how far we have come since we started our journey, and where we are going in future as women,” she said.

As an immigrant to Australia from Poland 50 years ago, Ms Bendarski said the best moment for her was being able to introduce her grandchildren to other volunteers and show them the work she does, to inspire their futures.

Similar was said by Lynn Burke, who was nominated by fellow MS Plus volunteer Joy Martin for her hard work and dedication to her volunteering in Casey.

Ms Martin said it has been a privilege being a part of an amazing group of volunteers who give up their time so freely to help the elderly Casey community regularly, and are so dedicated to their work.

“We have at least six volunteers in Berwick 14 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 March, 2023

Dancing was part of the day. 322678

Attendees took part in laughing tuition. 322678 and the surrounding area who check in with the elderly at aged care homes, visiting and making connections with them, and being a support for them,” she said.

Ms Martin explained that during Covid, their volunteers were sometimes the only point of contact for some of the elderly they visit, as they may not have had family nearby or weren’t able to receive other visitors.

“Our volunteers would do regular phone calls, window visits or Skype calls to make sure they could keep building the connection and friendships already being established,” she said.

For Ms Burke, she felt privileged to have been recognised for the work that she does, as it highlights the importance of the day to day work that women do in the community.

“It just shows the impact of the everyday woman’s work and contribution they have in the community, it really makes a difference,” she said.

Ms Burke said the volunteers that she works with, and also nominated for awards, come from all walks of life, different ages and backgrounds, with the common goal of supporting the community.

Both herself and Ms Martin agreed that

women are hardly ever thanked, let alone recognised, for the work they do every day and there should be more recognition and appreciation across the wider community.

WIN Foundation event organiser Sountharam said this was the first year they had opened up their International Women’s Day celebrations to other public groups and service providers, and hopes to make it an annual event.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to recognise women inspiring other women through their everyday volunteer work, with so many people wanting to help and support us,” she said.

Approximately 80 people attended the event and were treated to live cultural entertainment from women around Casey, and a luncheon to connect and network with the other women.

This year’s theme for International Women’s Day was to embrace equity through a global campaign, which Sountharam said was a goal for the WIN Foundation to bring people together as a collective and continue to support the Casey community. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Enjoy music, comedy and family fun at Dandenong’s iconic Drum Theatre.

Catch Jimeoin.

Join the beat of the Drum of the song and dance men, of years gone by through the artistry of Luke Alleva. All Encore tickets include complimentary morning tea and a parking voucher.

If it’s laugh’s you’re after, then the Drum is the place to be this April. The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Neighbourhood Sessions return with a handpicked line-up of festival favourites and some of the country’s best new talent ahead of their performances at the 2023 Comedy Festival. Australia’s fa-

vourite Irishman Jimeoin will bring his show The Craic to the stage, and the always hilarious Stephen K Amos will perform his hit show Before & Laughter.

Circus, magic and puppetry will entertain the whole family in the April school holidays with quality family performances Bunkasaurus and The Quizzical Mr Jeff.

Our Beat and Makers Market returns for 2023 to showcase the best of the south-east

in a street celebration in Crump Lane, Dandenong. Join the block party and meet local talents including Mr Congo, Sizwe Manaka, Shen N.Body, Srirachi, Zito and many more.

If you have a talent to share, then sign up and perform in front of a welcoming audience.

Discover more in the recently launched Season One Program which covers shows up to July 2023. Visit drum.greaterdandenong. vic.gov.au to see a full list of shows and to book your seat today.

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Have a top-notch theatre experience in your own backyard this Autumn. Enjoy music, comedy and family fun at Dandenong’s iconic Drum Theatre.

World-renowned musicians The Shuffle Club will make you want to dance when they bring their playful blend of jazz, swing, blues and boogie-infused tunes to the stage.

Don’t miss our Encore program show The Dancin’ Man featuring the class and elegance

berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 16 March, 2023

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2023 TIPPING CHART

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First

Second

ROUND 1 MARCH 16–19 Richmond vs. Carlton MCG Geelong Cats vs. Collingwood MCG Nth Melbourne vs West Coast Eagles MRVL Port Adelaide vs. Brisbane Lions AO Melbourne vs. Western Bulldogs MCG Gold Coast Suns vs. Sydney Swans MS GWS Giants vs. Adelaide Crows GS Hawthorn vs. Essedon MCG St Kilda vs. Fremantle MRVL

ROUND 2 MARCH 23–26 Carlton vs. Geelong Cats Brisbane Lions vs. Melbourne Collingwood vs. Port Adelaide Adelaide Crows vs. Richmond Western Bulldogs vs. St Kilda Fremantle vs. North Melbourne Sydney Swans vs. Hawthorn Essendon vs. Gold Coast Suns West Coast Eagles vs. GWS Giants

MCG G MCG AO MRVL OS SCG MRVL OS

ROUND 3 MARCH 30–APRIL 2 Western Bulldogs vs. Brisbane Lions MRVL Collingwood vs. Richmond MCG Hawthorn vs. North Melbourne UTAS GWS Giants vs. Carlton GS St Kilda vs. Essendon MCG Port Adelaide vs. Adelaide Crows AO Gold Coast Suns vs. Geelong Cats MS Melbourne vs. Sydney Swans MCG Fremantle vs. West Coast Eagles OS

ROUND 4 APRIL 6–10 Brisbane Lions vs. Collingwood

G

North Melbourne vs. Carlton Adelaide Crows vs. Fremantle Richmond vs. Western Bulldogs St Kilda vs. Gold Coast Suns Sydney Swans vs. Port Adelaide Essendon vs. GWS Giants West Coast Eagles vs. Melbourne Geelong Cats vs. Hawthorn

MRVL AO MCG MRVL SCG MRVL OS MCG

ROUND 5 APRIL 13–16 Adelaide Crows vs. Carlton Fremantle vs. Gold Coast Suns Richmond vs. Sydney Swans Brisbane Lions vs. North Melbourne Essendon vs. Melbourne Port Adelaide vs. Western Bulldogs Geelong Cats vs. West Coast Eagles GWS Giants vs. Hawthorn Collingwood vs. St Kilda

AO NO AO AH AO AO AO NO AO

ROUND 6 APRIL 21–25 Fremantle vs. Western Bulldogs OS Port Adelaide vs. West Coast Eagles AO GWS Giants vs. Brisbane Lions MO Geelong Cats vs. Sydney Swans GMHBA Hawthorn vs. Adelaide Crows UTAS Carlton vs. St Kilda MRVL Gold Coast Suns vs. North Melbourne MS Melbourne vs. Richmond MCG Collingwood vs. Essendon MCG

ROUND 7 APRIL 28–30 St Kilda vs. Port Adelaide Brisbane Lions vs. Fremantle Sydney Swans vs. GWS Giants Western Bulldogs vs. Hawthorn Melbourne vs. North Melbourne

MRVL G SCG MRVL MCG

West Coast Eagles vs. Carlton Essendon vs. Geelong Cats Richmond vs. Gold Coast Suns Adelaide Crows vs. Collingwood

OS MCG MRVL AO

ROUND 8 MAY 5–7 Carlton vs. Brisbane Lions Richmond vs. West Coast Eagles Geelong Cats vs. Adelaide Crows Gold Coast Suns vs. Melbourne GWS Giants vs. Western Bulldogs Fremantle vs. Hawthorn Port Adelaide vs. Essendon Collingwood vs. Sydney Swans North Melbourne vs. St Kilda

MRVL MCG GMHBA MS MO OS AO MCG MRVL

ROUND 9 MAY 12–14 Richmond vs. Geelong Cats MCG West Coast Eagles vs. Gold Coast Suns OS Sydney Swans vs. Fremantle SCG North Melbourne vs. Port Adelaide BA Hawthorn vs. Melbourne MCG Brisbane Lions vs. Essendon G Carlton vs. Western Bulldogs MRVL Adelaide Crows vs. St Kilda AO Collingwood vs. GWS Giants MCG

ROUND 10 MAY 19–21 Port Adelaide vs. Melbourne AO North Melbourne vs. Sydney Swans MRVL Western Bulldogs vs. Adelaide Crows MARS Fremantle vs. Geelong Cats OS Brisbane Lions vs. Gold Coast Suns G Essendon vs. Richmond MCG Hawthorn vs. West Coast Eagles UTAS Carlton vs. Collingwood MCG GWS Giants vs. St Kilda GS

Third

ROUND 11 MAY 26–28 Sydney Swans vs. Carlton SCG St Kilda vs. Hawthorn MRVL Melbourne vs. Fremantle MCG Geelong Cats vs. GWS Giants GMHBA Gold Coast Suns vs. Western Bulldogs TIO West Coast Eagles vs. Essendon OS Richmond vs. Port Adelaide MCG Collingwood vs. North Melbourne MRVL Adelaide Crows vs. Brisbane Lions AO

ROUND 12 JUNE 2–4 Melbourne vs. Carlton MCG Port Adelaide vs. Hawthorn AO West Coast Eagles vs. Collingwood OS Western Bulldogs vs. Geelong Cats MRVL Gold Coast Suns vs. Adelaide Crows TIO GWS Giants vs. Richmond GS Essendon vs. North Melbourne MRVL

ROUND 13 JUNE 8–12 Sydney Swans vs. St Kilda SCG Western Bulldogs vs. Port Adelaide MRVL Hawthorn vs. Brisbane Lions MCG Adelaide Crows vs. West Coast Eagles AO Fremantle vs. Richmond OS North Melbourne vs. GWS Giants BA Carlton vs. Essendon MCG Melbourne vs. Collingwood MCG

ROUND 14 JUNE 15–18 Port Adelaide vs. Geelong Cats Brisbane Lions vs. Sydney Swans GWS Giants vs. Fremantle Richmond vs. St Kilda

AO G GS MCG

Carlton vs. Gold Coast Suns MCG Nth Melbourne vs. Western Bulldogs MRVL

ROUND 15 JUNE 22–25 Geelong Cats vs. Melbourne GMHBA St Kilda vs. Brisbane Lions MRVL Sydney Swans vs. West Coast Eagles SCG Fremantle vs. Essendon OS Collingwood vs. Adelaide Crows MCG Gold Coast Suns vs. Hawthorn MS

ROUND 16 JUNE 29–JULY 2 Adelaide Crows vs. North Melbourne AO Brisbane Lions vs. Richmond G Essendon vs. Port Adelaide MCG Gold Coast Suns vs. Collingwood MS Hawthorn vs. Carlton MCG Melbourne vs. GWS Giants TP Sydney Swans vs. Geelong Cats SCG West Coast Eagles vs. St Kilda OS Western Bulldogs vs. Fremantle MRVL

ROUND 17 JULY 6–9 Brisbane Lions vs. West Coast Eagles G Essendon vs. Adelaide Crows MRVL Fremantle vs. Carlton OS Geelong Cats vs. North Melbourne GMHBA GWS Giants vs. Hawthorn GS Port Adelaide vs. Gold Coast Suns AO Richmond vs. Sydney Swans MCG St Kilda vs. Melbourne MRVL Western Bulldogs vs. Collingwood MRVL

ROUND 18 JULY 13–16 Adelaide Crows vs. GWS Giants Carlton vs. Port Adelaide

AO MRVL

Collingwood vs. Fremantle MCG Geelong Cats vs. Essendon GMHBA Gold Coast Suns vs. St Kilda MS Melbourne vs. Brisbane Lions MCG North Melbourne vs. Hawthorn MRVL Sydney Swans vs. Western Bulldogs SCG West Coast Eagles vs. Richmond OS

ROUND 19 JULY 21–23 Brisbane Lions vs. Geelong Cats Carlton vs. West Coast Eagles Essendon vs. Western Bulldogs Fremantle vs. Sydney Swans GWS Giants vs. Gold Coast Suns Melbourne vs. Adelaide Crows Port Adelaide vs. Collingwood Richmond vs. Hawthorn St Kilda vs. North Melbourne

G MRVL MRVL OS MO MCG AO MCG MRVL

ROUND 20 JULY 28–30 Adelaide Crows vs. Port Adelaide AO Collingwood vs. Carlton MCG Essendon vs. Sydney Swans MRVL Geelong Cats vs. Fremantle GMHBA Gold Coast Suns vs. Brisbane Lions MS Hawthorn vs. St Kilda MRVL Richmond vs. Melbourne MCG West Coast Eagles vs. Nth Melbourne OS Western Bulldogs vs. GWS Giants MARS

ROUND 21 AUGUST 4–6 Adelaide Crows vs. Gold Coast Suns AO Essendon vs. West Coast Eagles MRVL Fremantle vs. Brisbane Lions OS Geelong Cats vs. Port Adelaide GMHBA GWS Giants vs. Sydney Swans GS Hawthorn vs. Collingwood MCG

North Melbourne vs. Melbourne St Kilda vs. Carlton Western Bulldogs vs. Richmond

BA MRVL MRVL

ROUND 22 AUGUST 11–13 Carlton vs. Melbourne Brisbane Lions vs. Adelaide Crows Collingwood vs. Geelong Cats Hawthorn vs. Western Bulldogs North Melbourne vs. Essendon Port Adelaide vs. GWS Giants St Kilda vs. Richmond Sydney Swans vs. Gold Coast Suns West Coast Eagles vs. Fremantle

MCG G MCG UTAS MRVL AO MRVL SCG OS

ROUND 23 AUGUST 18–20 Adelaide Crows vs. Sydney Swans AO Collingwood vs. Brisbane Lions MRVL Fremantle vs. Port Adelaide OS Gold Coast Suns vs. Carlton MS GWS Giants vs. Essendon GS Melbourne vs. Hawthorn MCG Richmond vs. North Melbourne MCG St Kilda vs. Geelong Cats MRVL Wstrn Bulldogs vs. Wst Coast Eagles MRVL

ROUND 24 AUGUST 25–27 Brisbane Lions vs. St Kilda G Carlton vs. GWS Giants MRVL Essendon vs. Collingwood MCG Geelong Cats vs. Western Bulldogs GMHBA Hawthorn vs. Fremantle MCG North Melbourne vs. Gold Coast Suns BA Port Adelaide vs. Richmond AO Sydney Swans vs. Melbourne SCG West Coast Eagles vs. Adelaide Crows OS

WE MAKE CASEY CARDINIA SMILE Thursday, 16 March, 2023 |

Orthodontic Treatment for children and adults utilising the latest technologies including SureSmile, Invisalign, lingual and clear appliances.

We offer flexible, interest free payment plans to make orthodontics accessible to everyone.

Strict hygiene and physical distancing policies in place.

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STAR NEWS 17

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5.30 pm Phone: (03) 9330 0702 • info@seortho.com.au • www.seortho.com.au • Suite 5, Level 1/18-24 Clyde Rd, Berwick VIC 3806

NEWS

Region’s top cattle on show Berwick Show 2023 Beef Cattle results Jnr Ch Bull - Bunyip Black T-bone – Exhibited by Bunyip Black Simmentals Res Jnr Ch Bull - Mawarra Limited Edition – Exhibited by Mawarra Genetics Int Ch Bull - Mawarra Kentucky Bourbon – Exhibited by Mawarra Genetics Res Int Ch Bull - Moorunga Spartacus S44 – Exhibited by John Matthies Snr Ch Bull - Mawarra Ventriloquist – Exhibited by Mawarra Genetics Res Snr Ch Bull -Buchanan Park Quality Mac – Exhibited by A & J Furborough Jnr Ch Female - Moorunga Franchita T49 – Exhibited by Joghn Matthies Res Jnr Ch Female - Hazel Downs Tulip – Exhibited by James & Tressa Walsh Int Ch Female - Hazel Downs Symphony – Exhibited by Geoff & Noelene King Res Int Ch Female - Raedean Scarlett 814 – Exhibited by A Walker & N Gnaden Snr Ch Female - Rangan Showgirl – Exhibited

by Cameron & Katie McIntyre Res Snr Ch Female - Yamba Lakato S4 – Exhibited by Jayde Grylls Best Beef Group of Three – Exhibited by Mawarra Genetics Best Pair of Females – Exhibited by J & S Grylls Best Pair of Bulls – Exhibited by Mawarra Genetics Sires Progeny Pair – Exhibited by Geoff & Noelene King Best Male Exhibit – Bunyip Black T-Bone – Exhibited by Bunyip Black Simmentals The Murray Forsyth Trophy for Best Female Exhibit - Rangan Showgirl – Exhibited by Cameron & Katie McIntyre Supreme Beef Exhibit - Rangan Showgirl – Exhibited by Cameron & Katie McIntyre Berwick Show 2023 Dairy Cattle Results Best Dairy Heifer Under 12 Months: Kings Vista Cowslip 7 – Exhibited by Kings Vista Jerseys Jnr Ch Dairy Heifer - Kings Vista Cowslip 7 – Exhibited by Kings Vista Jerseys Res Jnr Ch Dairy Heifer - Kings Vista AF Butterwinks 19 – Exhibited by Kings Vista Jerseys Int Ch Dairy Cow - Kings Vista Hattie 23 – Exhibited by Ian Anderson Res Ch Dairy Cow - Kings Vista Aileen 224 – Exhibited by Ian Anderson Snr Ch Dairy Cow - Jackiah Valin Charm 3097 – Exhibited by S Reid & B Egan Res Snr Ch Dairy Cow - Kings Ville Tinkerbelle 62 - Exhibited by S Reid & B Egan 2023 Gordon Fyfe Memorial Trophy for Supreme Dairy Exhibit awarded to: Jackiah Valin Charm 3097 – Exhibited by S Reid & B Egan

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Cattle being washed before showing. 320809 Berwick Show 2023 Dairy goats results Overall Best Udder - Fontana Vicky - C. Pritchard Overall Reserve Best Udder - Skydreams Tiny Thing - C. Florance Breed Champions - 1. Fontana Vicky - C. Florance, 2. Fontana Venezia Best Udder 2nd Lactation (All Breeds AOV) Fontana Vicky - C. Pritchard Best Udder 1st Lactation (All Breeds AOV) Skydancer Tiny Thing - C. Florance Toggenburg breed champions 1. Skydreams Berrylium - C. Florance 2. Skydeams Bellbird – C. Florance 1st Lactation - Skydreams Berrylium - C. Florance 2nd and Subsequent Lactation - Kudumba Malkijah - C. Florance British Alpine breed champions Fontana Vicky - C. Pritchard 2nd and Subsequent Lactation Fontana Vicky - C. Pritchard Type and production Fortana Vicky – C. Pritchard Anglo Nubian breed champions 1. Skydreamers Tiny Thing - C. Florance 1st Lactation - Skydreamers Tiny Thing - C. Florance 2nd and Subsequent Lactation - Iminamuck Bellentine - J. Van Geffel Berwick Show 2023 Goatling results Saanen Goatling - Ashwynd Blossom – A. Fogg

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Open horse event caps off this year’s Berwick Show After a crisp Monday morning, the efforts of both the horse exhibitors and the Berwick Show Horse committee were well rewarded for the annual Open Horse Event on Monday 13 March.

Berwick Show Horse chairperson Sharon Geoffrey said the judges were thrilled with the quality of the horses.

“It was so pleasing to see the pre-entry numbers but the overall number of exhibits exceeded last year,” she said.

The Horse Riding Club Association of Victoria (HRCAV) ring was re-introduced this year, making a total of six rings which filled the main arena at Akoonah Park, concluding the day with the Supreme Hack, Pony and Galloway.

Following the Supreme Champion presentations, ring announcer Debbie Akister thanked the sponsors.

“Sponsors are such an integral part of holding all our competitions and today we give a huge thank you to N. Beable, Tom Gibson of Alex Scott and Staff and Brad Wiseman of Airepair Airconditioning Services,” she said.

18 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 March, 2023

Gracie Humphries with Lilies Pageant, pictured with sponsor N. Beable.

Picture: SUPPLIED The Supreme Champion winners were:

Ridden Pony won by Gracie · Supreme Humphries with Lilies Pageant.

Ridden Galloway won by Daizi · Supreme Plumb with DP Royal Ascot.

Ridden Hack won by Heidi Pitstock · Supreme with DP Florentine.

Will Lewin - Jimmy Goatling - Skydreams Belles · Toggenburgh Birdie - C. Florance All Breed Heavy Horse Led Classes Alpine Goatling - Fontana Vaella - C. · British Horses All Breed Led Classes Champi· Heavy Pritchard on Colt/Stallion: Ursula Alquier - Mr HandNubian Goatling - Skydreams Vera some · Anglo Mae – C. Pritchard Heavy Horses Supreme Led All Breed: Ursula · Dwarf Goatling -Wombat Creek · Nigerian Alquier - Mr Handsome Pertanance - C. Florance Class 202326 Stallion three years and over: · Goatling - Ashwynd Blossom – Saanen · Best 1st Ursula Alquier - Mr Handsome - A. Fogg · Heavy Horse - Long Reined Classes Berwick Show 2023 Heavy Horse results Horses Reserve Champion Long · Heavy · Heavy Horse - Clydesdale Led Classes Reined: Peter Allen - Larvistryn Celtic Glen Horse Reserve Champion Gelding: · Heavy Horses Champion Long reined: Debo· Heavy Deborah Allen - Ardmona Laird Nelson rah Allen - Ardmona Laird Nelson Horse Champion Gelding: Peter Straf· Heavy 202333 Gentleman Driver 18 years · Class ford - Samarah Park Thomas of age and over: 1st Peter Allen - Larvistryn Heavy horse Champion Colt/Stallion: Will · Lewin - Willice Park Clifford Celtic Glen, 2nd Peter Strafford - Samarah Park Thomas, 3rd Will Lewin - Jimmy, Heavy Horse Supreme Led Exhibit: Will · Lewin - Willice Park Clifford 202334 Lady Driver 18 years of age and · Class over: 1st Deborah Allen - Ardmona Laird Class 202302 Stallion three years and over: · 1st Will Lewin - Willice Park Clifford Nelson, 2nd Hayley Bebb - Jimmy, 3rd LoretFrost - Larvistryn Celtic Glen, 4th Rhonda Class 202305 Gelding four years and over: 1st · Peter Strafford - Samarah Park Thomas, 2nd taStrafford - Samarah Park Thomas Deborah Allen - Ardmona Laird Nelson, 3rd · Heavy Horse - Obstacle Course Classes Peter Allen - Larvistryn Celtic Glen, 4th Sha- · Class 202339 Single Horse to pull sled negotiron Chiotelis - Hadrans Wall ating Cone and Pole: 1st Deborah Allen - ArPart Bred Clydesdale Led Classes Heavy Horses Champion Gelding: Will Lewin - Jimmy Heavy Horse Supreme led part bred Clydesdale: Will Lewin - Jimmy Class 202321 Gelding four years and over: 1st

· · ·

·

dmona Laird Nelson, 2nd Peter Allen - Larvistryn Celtic Glen, 3rd Will Lewin - Jimmy Class 202340 Pair of Horses to pull sled negotiating Cone and Pole: 1st Peter Allen - Larvistryn Celtic Glen and Ardmona Laird Nelson -Judge: Kevin Tyson

Road feedback welcome Residents and businesses will get to have their say this month on the potential future Thompsons Road and Berwick-Cranbourne Road Intersection Upgrade which will help shape the region for generations to come.

Major Road Projects Victoria will seek feedback from residents and local businesses from Monday 6 March to Monday 27 March to help inform planning of the potential future upgrade which would help reduce travel times, improve safety and cater for population growth and increased vehicle movements.

This information will be used to better understand how the community and local business currently use the roundabout and connecting roads, with views sought on safety and traffic flow and what should be considered during the planning process.

Project options currently being considered include removing the existing roundabout and replacing it with traffic signals, improving public transport infrastructure at the intersection, improving walking and cycling infrastructure at the intersection.

Planning work is underway to gather a complete picture of the area, understand the environmental and social impacts of the project, develop design options, and

confirm the scope and costs of different options. Roadside technical investigations are set to start from March until mid-2023.

During these investigations, there may be traffic control measures including temporary lane closures and reduced speed limits.

Traffic disruption will be kept to a minimum and busy periods will be avoided.

A business case is currently being developed and work is expected to be completed later this year.

The potential future Thompsons Road Intersection Upgrade will complement the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road Upgrade, which is currently under construction and will improve traffic flow, travel times and safety between Thompsons Road and the South Gippsland Highway.

It also follows the Thompsons Road Upgrade completed in 2020, which has improved safety and travel times between Frankston-Dandenong Road and BerwickCranbourne Road.

Residents and local businesses can have their say by visiting engage.vic.gov.au/ thompsonsberwickcranbourne before 27 March, 2023. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Call for mobile stroke aid A fundraising appeal has started for a key element for a purpose-built stroke ambulance in the South East.Stroke Foundation is seeking to raise $100,000 for a CT brain scanner as part of the vehicle.

The State Government committed $12 million in the 2022 State Budget towards the Mobile Stroke Unit, which will be the second in the state.

It will be staffed by a neuorologist, nurse, radiographer and two paramedics.

The brain scanner would allow for a diagnosis of a stroke and treatment to being in the field rather than waiting vital minutes to arrive at hospital.

Launched in 2017, the initial Mobile Stroke Unit has assessed more than 2800 patients.

Among them was Chadstone stroke survivor Warren Wheatley, who was found on the floor at home by his son Arron.

“I began to bang feebly on the wall of the bathroom. I was on the floor and could just raise my hand,” Mr Wheatley said.

Arron suspected a stroke and called for an ambulance straightaway.

The Mobile Stroke Unit’s on-board CT scanner found a clot, and he was given clot-busting

Warren Wheatley, who was treated at home by a Mobile Stroke Unit after suffering a stroke. drugs immediately.

“Right there, in front of the house, I was given life-saving treatment. It was incredible.”

After the stroke, Mr Wheatley was paralysed on his left side, could not lift a spoon to his

mouth, and experienced incontinence but in nine weeks, he was back on his feet.

“With the world-class treatment that I received in such a quick timeframe, I was able to recover well.

“Four years later, my life is 95 per cent back to what it was. The highlight was that I was able to walk my daughter down the aisle at her wedding.”

Stroke Foundation interim chief executive officer Lisa Murphy says the speed of treatment was crucial for Mr Wheatley’s recovery.

“When a stroke strikes, it attacks up to 1.9 million brain cells a minute so it’s critical to act fast and get emergency treatment as quickly as possible.

“The stroke ambulance does exactly that and, as a result, saves lives and improves outcomes for patients.”

Another crucial factor is recognizing stroke symptoms and immediately calling an ambulance.

The three most common signs are summed up by the FAST acronym – Facial droop, Arms unable to be lifted, Speech slurred plus Time being critical, to call an ambulance immediately.

Stroke Foundation is calling on the Victorian Government to invest $250,000 per annum for four years to deliver a FAST community education campaign.

Developing a diverse force

By Sahar Foladi Victoria Police is seeking to broaden its ranks with its Diversity Recruitment Program for the South-East.

The recruitment program is a partnership between Victoria Police, Jesuit Social Services and Victoria University, with a new round of applications now open.

Applicants will take part in a 15-week course at Victoria University in policing and recruitment pathways to build their skills and capabilities for a higher chance of being recruited.

The program specifically targets diverse communities of the South-East in efforts to not just create awareness in those communities but also to guide participants through each stage of the recruitment process.

Mella Opiew was one of the first to be recruited through this program.

“I recall when I accepted the offer from Victoria Police my siblings were there, all of them were happy. They are more concerned about my safety but they’re happy for me.

“I was really happy that day, it was one of my best days.”

Eldest of four siblings, Mr Opiew migrated from Sudan with his family in 2004. With English as a second language, he attended Noble Park English Language School to get himself up to speed.

Now a constable, he says the program provides a lot of support for those ready to take up the challenges.

“I’m really happy just being in Victoria Police. Not one day is the same.”

Now a few months into his career, Mr Opiew wants to give back to the community.

“I would love to get involved in community engagement to build the trust with the community.”

In the 15-week course, participants are provided with theoretical and fitness training to make sure they meet the high standards of the recruitment process.

The program also seeks to increase the numbers of recruits from under-represented cultural communities.

Senior Sergeant Robbie Colcott, who is also officer in charge of the Southern Metro Region Multicultural Liaison unit, said it’s essential for Victoria Police to represent different communities.

“Victoria is made up of diverse communities. For the communities to be able to look at their local police and see their community represented, that comes back to the issue of removing barriers.

“Their cultural background shouldn’t be a barrier as long as they share the values that we do here in Victoria Police.”

Snr Sgt Colcott said individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds possess skills that berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

Constable Mella Opiew, one of the first recruits of the program.

Picture: SUPPLIED can be of value as a police officer.

“People from diverse communities are creative and resourceful. I think they bring an understanding and wisdom and we value that.

“They have an understanding of how people from certain community can comfortably communicate.”

Diverse members of the public can also help with issues surrounding cultural issues “that others might otherwise struggle with”.

Unfortunately, despite all the benefits, barriers still exist like a steel wall for the diverse communities to even consider a career in the police force.

“Some challenges (of breaking the barriers) are simple like many haven’t considered a police career as an option. Part of that is they haven’t seen their community represented.

“Some are sophisticated in the sense that they come from other countries where the police don’t live up to the value that is expected of us in Victoria Police.”

As of late last year, 132 participants had completed the 15-week course, 56 participants had successfully passed the Victoria Police Entrance Exam and 22 participants have been offered places at the academy in police, PSO or PCO roles. A total of 47 cultures were represented by participants.

“When people see the selection criteria, they might think the career is not for them.

What I would like to say is that we are there to support those people who have the value and drive in overcoming the hurdles,” Mr Colcott said.

“We can assist, coach them, they can apply and be successful. It’s not just in the application process, but right through the training academy phase.

“I encourage people who are considering career in Vic Police to come to an info session and check the social media pages.”

Applications for residents in City of Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia are open until 27 March.

The program begins on 2 May with a mixture of online and face-to-face classes at no cost to participants.

The Mental Health Roundtable was called to address the lack of support available in the Holt region.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Talking youth mental health Young people struggling with mental health may soon see a dedicated headspace erected in the Cranbourne region.

Mental health affects every aspect of our lives, and early intervention is essential for young people, for whom mental illness can have profound, long-term consequences.

The difficulty in accessing mental health support in the electorate of Holt has constantly resurfaced since the beginning of MP Cassandra Fernando’s campaign as the Labor candidate.

“As the representative of an incredibly young, diverse and fast-growing federal electorate, I am focused on ensuring every young person in Holt can access the mental health care they need and deserve,” Ms Fernando said.

Similarly, The Salvation Army’s recent Social Justice Stocktake observed that 60 per cent of respondents in Holt reported mental health as their primary issue of concern.

Following discussions with community and government stakeholders since the MP’s election in May 2022, Ms Fernando hosted a Holt Mental Health Roundtable with the Assistant Minister for Mental Health, MP Emma McBride.

“The evidence gathered from discussions with the City of Casey, the South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) and headspace, and from Census 2021, highlight the necessity of improving mental health support in Holt,” said Ms Fernando.

The roundtable included representatives from many important stakeholders from the mental health, education and community support sectors, including several local schools, headspace Narre Warren, EACH, Community Information and Support Cranbourne (CISC), Hampton Park Uniting Church, Multicultural Youth Support Service (MYSS) and the South Eastern

Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN).

In addition, the roundtable was attended by Pauline Richards and Gary Maas, State MPs for Cranbourne and Narre Warren South, respectively.

Minister McBride outlined the Federal Government’s priorities in the mental health space, particularly addressing mental health concerns among people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, as well as reducing drivers of distress.

She emphasised the roundtable was only the beginning of the conversation to deliver more mental health support for this region.

Cassandra Fernando MP expressed her gratitude for the Minister’s attendance, and spoke to the stakeholders about her ongoing advocacy to Minister McBride for a dedicated headspace in the suburb of Cranbourne.

Holt is the third youngest and among the most diverse electorates in Victoria, with 24.4 per cent of residents aged between 0 and 14 (the second largest cohort in the state) and 44.8 per cent of households speaking a language other than English at home.

The region has a high demand for mental health support, especially for those who are young and/or from a CALD background.

However, lack of affordable medical services, poor transport connectivity and shortage of allied health services leads to difficulties in accessing them.

“Establishing a new headspace centre in the suburb of Cranbourne in my electorate will go a long way in delivering more mental health support by providing an integrated service tailored to address the difficulties young people in Holt face during their adolescence and young adulthood.”

Thursday, 16 March, 2023

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STAR NEWS 19

FOCUS ON … HOME AND GARDENS

Heading for the heavens Green up your alfresco living area, small deck or balcony with a vertical garden.

It’s easy to add greenery to a small outdoor space with a vertical garden.

Vertical gardens or green walls not only look good, they can also make your home healthier as they absorb carbon dioxide and cool ambient temperatures.

Vertical gardens also have a humidifying effect and are know to capture toxic gases from deodorants, carpet, paint, furniture and building materials.

Green walls can also reduce noise, capture water runoff and increase biodiversity.

A vertical garden can even become a source of food, with herbs particularly suited to pots and tubs.

You can hire a professional horticulturalist to advise on and install a vertical garden at your property or there are a host of DIY ideas online.

Gardendesign.com, has some simple vertical gardening ideas you can use to add green to your space: Mount a staghorn fern and hang it as a focal point.

·

planters on your porch or balcony.

a few wall planters with trailing plants for · Fill a waterfall of greenery.

· Arrange wall planters in your kitchen for · Create your own vertical jungle with a living growing herbs or micro greens. wall kit. · Build a terracotta planter wall on your fence. · Use wrought iron flower pot rings to elevate

It is a good idea to invest in an automated irrigation system with a timer to ensure the plants never dry out. The amount of water needed depends on what you’ll be growing – if it’s an edible garden, you’ll be fertilising and watering it a lot more.

Plants that work well in a vertical garden according to choice.com.au include: Bromeliads Fuschia Agapanthus Ferns Anthuriums Begonia Callisia fragrans Chlorophytum Crassula Impatiens Peperomia Plectranthus Spathiphyllum Tradescantia

· · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

Weird and wonderful shapes of 2023 This year we’re seeing abstract design ideas come to life, with wavy woodwork and unusual shapes taking centre stage.

According to creative experts at leading Australian retailer GlobeWest, a rise in shapes that’ll soothe the senses are on the horizon.

GlobeWest creative director Keti Lytras believes these wacky shapes are thanks to a resurgence in creativity after being stuck inside the last few years.

Architects, artists, and designers are freshly inspired and creating in new and exciting ways, expressing their individualism.

“People are excited, sculptural silhouettes, decadent details and twisted carvings inspired by vintage pieces invite this creativity into the home in a really liveable way,” she said.

“After spending so much time in our

homes, we’re seeking shapes, textures, and colours that soothe the senses, “Additionally, as Australians, we’re very connected to our environment, we are seeing this reflected in the organic materials and tones of salt bush and burnt orange come through in fabric choices.”

With this shake up approach to design

this year, Ms Lytras expects a farmhouse aesthetic with geometric shapes could have its moment this year too.

While vintage styles have a strong hold on design, they’re shifting towards a more contemporary angle.

Ms Lytras suggests the best way to bring your space to life for the year ahead is

through thoughtful layering, coming back to creating a comforting, yet practical space.

“We’re designing for comfort, not just through upholstery and fabrication but usability. Coffee tables, side tables and ottomans, somewhere to put your feet up, a place to rest your drink, a place to connect,” she said.

Although, who says comfort has to be without a touch of indulgence? Ms Lytras is eager to see life’s luxuries celebrated in everyday living, with decadent detailing and contemporary silhouettes.

“Tones of twilight, plum and desert speckle are our favourite colours this season,“ she said. ”Warmer deeper shades that sit beautifully with natural tones. They invite warmth and variation to our spaces, in an easy-to-use way, feel-good sophisticated design.”

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Thursday, 16 March, 2023

|

STAR NEWS 21

WHAT’S ON Make the most of your retirement! Tutors are available to teach art using various mediums.

A variety of crafts including knitting, patchwork and sewing, card making, and calligraphy.

Chess, line dancing, Italian language, table tennis and cycling groups welcome you.

Would you like to play the ukulele, or just singalong for fun? Cranbourne U3A can help.

Our rooms are in the Cranbourne Library building, through the Casey Radio entrance.

Expand your social life and get active for a healthy third age in your retirement.

For more information, visit u3acranbourne. org.au or call Helen 0423 623 337.

Berwick Boutique Craft and Food Market Step back in time and browse the wonderful and unique crafts and design from local makers and unwind from the week.

Spend your Saturday at the historic Old Cheese Factory in Berwick, which offers beautifully manicured gardens, a large children’s playground and barbecue/picnic facilities along with plenty of parking.

34 Homestead Road, Berwick on Saturday 25 March, 9am-2pm.

·

Youth Resilience Workshops

·

Build resilient and confident children with this local workshop.

Fergus Watts, CEO of The Reach Foundation will be visiting Botanic Ridge Village to provide a free keynote session for the community, providing parents the tips and insight to navigate the teenage years alongside their children.

The Reach Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation directly helping young people across Australia build the skills and confidence to navigate the future.

Botanic Ridge Village Town Square 10 Hummingbird Drive, Botanic Ridge on Wednesday 29 March, 6pm – 7pm.

Lynbrook Easter Evening Market Soak up the atmosphere at the Festival of Colours.

Festival of Colours Get colourful with the Lynbrook Residents’ Association in Lynbrook’s Festival of Colours.

Start the day in plain white clothing and finish swept up in a rainbow of colour.

Food stalls will be on site including Indian cuisine, Twisty Potatoes, Robbie’s Diner, icecream, popcorn and a coffee van too.

This year LRA has added a giant slide!

·

Ball Balla Open Day Celebrate Balla Balla Community Centre’s Open Day at the new location!

There will be a lot of fun activities for adults and children, including free food, live music, reptile encounters, face painting, Butterfly stilt walkers, community art project, free kids rides and more.

This is a great opportunity to get to know your centre with free come and try activities.

7 – 9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Saturday 25 March 12pm–3pm

·

Annual Twilight Car Boot Sale The Warneet-Blind Bight Fire Brigade is hosting their annual car boot sale.

There will be a food and coffee van, live music, raffles, kids activities, a CFA Mobile Engagement Unit and more.

Warneet Reserve, Gilgandra Street, Warneet on Saturday 25 March 3pm-7pm.

·

Roller Disco at Sk8house Back by popular demand - it’s the crowd favourite Retro Roller Disco Night at Sk8house!

There will be fun games and awesome prizes for best dressed too, so dig out your best retro inspired outfit and get ready to have a “wheelie” great night!

Join Sk8house for all of the biggest and best music from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s.

3/2 Amayla Crescent, Carrum Downs on Saturday 25 March 6pm-10pm.

·

Global Flavour Feast Bunjil Place will be hosting a month of delicious food nights with Global Flavour Feast.

Explore the rich cultural diversity Melbourne and the south-east has to offer.

Tantalise your taste buds with delicious bites, whilst enjoying cultural performances and demonstrations from around the globe.

Free entry with food and drinks at vendor prices.

Program: Friday 17 March - Europe; Friday 24 March - Africa. 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren starting Friday 3 March from 5.30pm to 9.30pm.

·

catered for.

Hosted by a qualified yoga teacher from Happy Melon Studios.

The class will be followed by a two-course breakfast at Stella’s Kitchen, Lysterfield.

Tickets are $60 per person including the onehour yoga class by a professional yoga instructor.

Yoga mats will be provided if you do not have one.

18 Horswood Road, Lysterfield on Saturday 25 March, 8am-9am.

·

Sapphire Spirituality Full Moon Women’s Circle

Picture: SUPPLIED

Bollywood dance group ‘The Bollydazzlers’ performing a dance extravaganza and workshop at 5pm and our great DJ Shalend playing tunes for the whole event.

Come celebrate this fun annual event with your family, friends and neighbours.

Bags of colour $3 each.

Banjo Paterson Park, Lynbrook, on Saturday 18 March, 3pm to 7pm.

·

There will be face painting, roving singing sailors, rides and inflatables, music and dance performers, stilt walkers, circus performers, gymnastics activation, AFL activation, a petting zoo, and much more!

There will also be displays by Ambulance Victoria, Victoria Police, Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) and the City of Casey Waste Team and Road Safety Team.

While free, this event is ticketed and bookings are essential.

Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick, on Saturday 18 March 12pm-5pm.

·

Neighbour Day

Dive into your ancient feminine wisdom with a group of wonderful women this full moon.

With activities, games, snacks and self expression all wrapped up in a safe and welcoming environment, this circle is sure to delight all women who are craving a stronger sense of community.

This is an opportunity to share and connect and revel in the ancient practice of the circle.

Tickets are $33 and are available via the Sapphire Spirituality Facebook page and Eventbrite.

Timbarra Community Hall, Timbarra Way Berwick on Friday 17 March 5.30pm to 7pm.

·

Neighbour Day is a day to celebrate community, and encourage people to connect with those who live in the neighborhood.

Neighbours are important and these social connections help to prevent loneliness and isolation.

Ball Balla Community Centre is hosting a lunch where local neighbours can get to know one another and forge important social connections while enjoying some tasty food at the same time.

7 – 9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Monday 27 March 11am-1pm.

Every 1 Cafe

The Holland Festival

Join the Amstel Club in their new Every 1 initiative.

For a gold coin donation, members of the community can enjoy a coffee, tea, milkshake or smoothie.

You might even be lucky and receive a cookie or cake.

Show your support for Amstel’s Umbrella Support participants, who are expanding their vocational opportunities as they learn the ins and outs of cafe service.

1000 Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne, running every Thursday afternoon 1.30pm-3.30pm.

·

Yoga in the Orchard

Casey Kids Carnival

Spend a delightful morning doing yoga in the orchard, on the grass in front of The Orchard at Montague.

All levels are welcome, and different abilities are

Grab the family and come down to the Casey Kids Carnival for a day of fun and excitement.

This free event is one of the City of Casey’s most celebrated and attended events.

·

Enjoy Dutch culture and raise funds to support a local charitable organisation at the same time!

The Holland Festival is run by the Rotary Club of Casey with the sole purpose of operating a cultural festival for the benefit of the community, including people of Dutch heritage and to raise funds for community service projects.

The festival is managed completely by volunteers.

We can taste the kibbeling, stroopwafers and ollie bollen already… and remember every cent of profit on the day goes to charity through the Rotary Club of Casey.

Tickets are $10-$20 and are available via hollandfestival.org.au Akoonah Park, 2 Cardinia Street, Berwick, on Saturday 18 March 10am-6pm.

·

Cranbourne U3A

With thousands of guests each year, this is a must-attend event!

Featuring market stalls, great food, specialty retailers, free kids activities, live music, the Easter Bunny and more.

There will be a range of different market stalls so that you can find the perfect gifts, decorations, outdoor items, homewares and treats.

The market stalls will feature hand-made, locally sourced, unique products.

The Lynbrook Easter Market will be an evening for the whole family to enjoy.

Lynbrook Village Shopping Centre, 75 Lynbrook Boulevard, Lynbrook on Friday 31 March, from 3pm-8pm.

·

Mabon Autumn Equinox Join the Witches of South East Melbourne this Autumn Equinox, to celebrate the pagan holiday of Mabon.

In Australia, Mabon falls close to the end of Daylight Savings time, and makes us very aware that winter is on its way.

It is at Mabon that the Cauldrons are first lit again, the last of the summer fruits are eaten in thanks, and summer ribbons and garlands are put away in preparation for the colder months.

This open gender, child-friendly event will include family friendly activities, an earth energy raising circle and a release and gratitude ritual.

Bring a plate to share for feasting.

109 Brundrett Rd, Narre Warren North on Sunday 19 March, 5.30pm-7.30pm.

·

Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre If you are over 55 years old, live in Casey and looking for something to do, come and join us. We are a friendly club. Our club day is on Wednesdays from 9.30am to 3pm. On the second and fourth Wednesdays we have live entertainment.

There are also weekly activities on other days of the week which include the garden group club, indoor carpet bowls, line dancing, gentle exercise sessions, table tennis and friendly card games. We are located at 192-196 Centre Road near the Narre Warren Station.

Phone us on 9704 0015 or 0426 736 467 or email us at narwarsen@bigpond.com for more information.

·

Berwick Neighbourhood Centre Annual General Meeting The Berwick Neighbourhood Centre would like to invite all interested community members to attend our AGM on Thursday 30 March at 10am in the Timbarra Community Hall.

Light refreshments will be provided. RSVP by Monday 27 March for catering purposes. Any further details can be provided by contacting admin@berwicknc.com.au or ring 9704 1863. We look forward to seeing you there.

·

WIN FAMILY PASSES - JURASSIC CREATURES @ WESTFIELD FOUNTAIN GATE GET READY TO HEAR THE ROAR NARRE WARREN… THE DINOSAURS ARE COMING! Jurassic Creatures, the original, are coming to Westfield Fountain Gate from March 31 until April 23 and they are bringing their friends Buddy and Tiny from the Dinosaur Train!

Jurassic Creatures, a realistic animatronics Exhibition like no other, will capture the imagination of children and parents alike with over 30 Dinosaurs and spectacular activities that immerse you in a prehistoric time. For further show details visit - www.jurassiccreatures.com.au Westfield Fountain Gate, Cnr Princes Hwy and Brechin Drive Narre Warren from March 31 to April 23

A family pass (4 tickets) is valued at $100

22 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 March, 2023

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NEWS

Value proposition defined TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH In last week’s article, we discussed the power and value of having a business strategy.

In this article I would like to build on this by defining the term value proposition and showing how it relates to strategy.

According to Google, a value proposition is a simple statement that clearly communicates the product or service benefit you promise to deliver to your customers. It’s ultimately what makes your product attractive to your ideal customer.

So clearly then, a good value proposition is well worth having since it is fundamentally what will drive sales, but it is actually serves a greater purpose as well.

In working with businesses, I often ask business owners what specific value do you bring to your clients and how is this different from the competition?

It is a loaded question that forces the owner to think hard about why customers should buy from them as opposed to those in a similar space.

Price might be a possible reason but you have to have pretty deep pockets to use lowest price as the key differentiator (for example Harvey Norman’s The Shop With Confidence Price Guarantee and also Bunnings who recently dropped its lowest prices are just the beginning slogan).

In practice, it is far better to differentiate through value.

Terms like high quality, great customer service and honesty in our dealings may come to

It’s important to define what specific value you bring to your clients and how it’s different from the competition. mind and whilst laudable, and quite possibly true, they are not unique differentiators (i.e. anyone can say this and many do!), so there needs to be more.

This gets to the heart of why the business exists and what it sees as its primary value to the marketplace.

Since the origins of the business often lie in the passion the business owner has for the product or service or the perception of a need or gap in the market, there is much to draw on to define its uniqueness.

In practice, the essence of a true value proposition articulates what the company is ultimately trying to achieve and what it sees as its primary purpose.

The former is known as the company vision and the latter, the company mission.

If these two key components have been well defined for a business, then the combination of these will immediately highlight (or make it very easy to derive) the company’s value proposition.

Since the value proposition really stems

from the heart of what the business is trying to achieve, creation of this important statement cannot be delegated out to external organisations to create for marketing purposes.

However, once defined, it does become an invaluable asset for marketing organisations to utilise in order to promote the business.

A well-defined value proposition will definitely help to increase revenue from customers, but it also serves many other purposes as well.

According to Wikipedia, “In marketing, a company’s value proposition is the full mix of benefits or economic value which it promises to deliver to the current and future customers who will buy their products and/or services”.

This statement is essential to any form of marketing communication.

Especially now with the current labour shortage, businesses are finding that to appeal to younger members of the workforce, the business itself needs to define a compelling reason for employees to be attracted to it in the first place and want to stay in it for the long term.

Millennials especially want to work for a business that knows where it is going and is doing good in the world, i.e. creating real value.

A well-defined value proposition is also therefore an indispensable aid to acquiring the right staff to enable the company’s value to be realised.

So, in summary, define your vision (what success ultimately looks like for the business), articulate your mission (your differentiated purpose in the world) and this will enable you to create a value proposition that will distinguish you from the competition, attract and retain better staff and enable greater business success.

Ian Ash is the managing director of OrgMent Business Solutions.

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Rex name shame

By Mitchell Clarke Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.

Former Springfield Ward councillor Rex Flannery, who resigned as deputy mayor just days before the State Government sensationally sacked the entire council in February 2020, says the events of the past 12 months are still “eating” him up.

He has now officially requested that his name is removed from both a councillor honour board in the customer service centre and a wall plaque in Bunjil Place.

“I have never had any involvement into this alleged corruption scandal and therefore I do not wish to have my name associated with past or former councillors who may have brought our City of Casey into disrepute,” he told Star News.

“People look at your name and they see that you’re from Casey Council and immediately they put you in that same mould, which couldn’t be further than the truth.

“It’s just horrible to have been a councillor in that term. It gives you a sickening feeling in your gut and now I have to live with that.“ Mr Flannery argues his name should never have been placed on the plaque celebrating the $126 million Bunjil development because at the time he didn’t support the project.

“I guess I’ve eaten a little bit of humble pie with Bunjil Place. I’ve been able to see the value that place brings to the community but at the time I was against the development and I wasn’t once consulted (about having my name included),” he said.

He also claims former ex-ward partner, Sam Aziz, stated to him that he “wished he never had my name added to the plaque”.

“That was the only time I agreed with him,” Mr Flannery said.

While Mr Flannery hasn’t accused any former councillor of committing wrongdoing, he said anyone found guilty from the IBAC hearing should immediately have their honours stripped.

“They need to have their plaques removed

Rex name shame

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Rex Flannery, pictured in late 2015, wants his name stripped from council. 148005 from anywhere within the City of Casey ... whether it’s a plaque in the botanical gardens or in Bunjil Place, I want them removed so they have absolutely no recognition anymore,” he said.

“They’ve disgraced themselves and they’ve disgraced the council. They’ve taken something away from me that I totally enjoyed. I loved serving the Casey community. I just want some clarity as to what way it’s going to go.”

Since his resignation, Mr Flannery has been working in an operating theatre at a local hospital. He said he has every intention to run for council again in 2024.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

“I want to get back into serving the community again. I want to run again and I want to get my name back on the honour board for the right reasons. At the moment it’s a dishonour board,” he said.

Star News understands Mr Flannery has put forward his request to be heard by the administrators at the next council meeting, slated for Tuesday 2 February.“It’s up to them now but a year later, this is still eating at me. I need closure and this is one way that I can get it,“ he said.

“I played no part in any downturn or sacking of the council and I feel it’s my duty to say that I don’t want to be a part of or in any way

Bunjil Place. associated with the 2016-20 term.”

Casey’s governance manager Rhys Matulis said: “Given the IBAC investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment on that matter. Council has received and will consider Mr Flannery’s request in due course.”

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Almost one year since alleged corruption was exposed within the City of Casey, a former councillor is still fighting to clear his name.

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By Mitchell Clarke

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Thursday, 16 March, 2023

|

STAR NEWS 23

BUSINESS PROFILE

Top employer for equality We are thrilled to announce that Lifestyle Communities has just been awarded Employer of Choice for Gender Equality Citation (EOCGE) by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) in our first year of application.

The citation highlights the meaningful programs and initiatives that Lifestyle Communities has created and imbedded within the organisation and throughout our communities enabling our team and homeowners to thrive.

With over 67% of our team identifying as female, we are proud to be recognised for our commitment in leading the way and accelerating change for gender equality in the property/ construction industry.

Simone de la Harpe, Head of People Experience reflected on our journey toward the citation: “Prior to going through the application process, it was clear from my first day that Lifestyle Communities was truly committed to creating a workplace and environment that supports and recognises team members, future team members, homeowners and suppliers.

We have led the way in creating development opportunities, career growth, support programs and flexible ways of working that support the needs of our team.

The citation is also a wonderful acknowledgement of the commitment to date from our Leadership team, Board and wider team to foster an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace that has a positive impact on the lives our homeowners and continues to drive change within our industry and beyond.”

Coinciding with Lifestyle Communities 20-year anniversary milestone, this citation further solidifies our focus on gender equality, particularly emphasising the amazing outcomes from our various programs and initiatives: A 50/50 gender split on our Board with 40/40/20 targets across our team. Our design

Lifestyle Communities has been awarded Employer of Choice for Gender Equality Citation. and construction team is over 60% female which is a great achievement within a male dominated industry.

A higher percentage of both full-time and part-time females in both Emerging Leader roles and subsequent Emerging Leader program.

Flexible working programs that support all team members across various carer journeys including increased maternity (18 weeks) and paternity leave (8 weeks) options whilst continuing to deliver amazing experiences for homeowners. Tailored training and development programs to support inclusion,

diversity and leadership.

Strong results from our citation driven ‘lived experience check in’ with our team.

Partnering on a paid research project focusing on Dad’s and partner leave pre-and-post pandemic.

A direct quote from our Managing Director, James Kelly, upon receiving the news that we had been successful in our EOCGE application: “24th February marks the 20th anniversary since I started Lifestyle Communities with Dael and Bruce - this just could not have come at a better time! I feel so delighted that we have

been able to create an organisation that is deserved of such recognition.

It’s been a lifelong passion of mine, incubated through university, to ensure that any company that I lead can make a difference to gender equality in Australia. This means a lot!”

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art galIn late June, plans to build a $50 million art - alongside lery - with $500 million worth of in the semia restaurant and function centre approved by rural suburb of Harkaway were the State Government. opposed But local residents, who have long say they the development of Rosemaur Gallery, the decision. are “surprised and saddened” by resThe approved plans for the gallery, cater for a taurant and function centre will with up to maximum of 300 patrons at a time, quarterly 580 patrons permitted during large events.

STORY PAGE 3

100 days celebrated

Beth Luppino, Chief Executive Officer.

Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia. @StarNews_SE 40¢ Inc. were just GST In the same period in 2022, there

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Kucks legacy lives on

STORY PAGE 7

Still hot proper ty Dogged by Covid area Pakenham is proving to be an appealing prices remain for first home buyers as house suburbs closrelatively low when compared to

er to Melbourne’s CBD. unit price The annual pace of house and and surgrowth is easing across Melbourne

PAGE 8

Domain’s June rounding suburbs, according to Quarterly House Price Report. said Ray White Pakenham’s Gavin Staindl in Pakengrowth had declined marginally

ham. in Paken“We’re in a very affordable area

12419558-CG23-19

ham,” Mr Staindl said. closer to “You can travel into Berwick or as much but the city and you’re paying twice here in Pakenham, you can get four-bedroom for around houses under 10 years of age of first home $600,000 to $650,000, so for a lot

buyers it’s quite appealing.” increase, With interest rates continuing to to borrow as first home buyers won’t be able much as they would have previously.

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A Berwick dog trainer is calling for increased from education and training for dog owners and their pooches following a series of recent dog our attacks in the City of Casey.

We come to you or can help through Frame & Lenses Jake Cini, who owns dog training + business contactless pick-up and remote services.

Pair Power F R E E Second Pooches, said preventing dog attacks from occurring “has to start with education”.

He said the wave of ‘pandemic pets’ (03) 9113 4616 who had not been socialised as puppies was contact@synergyitservices.com.au an issue that www.synergyitservices.com.au couldn’t be ignored by owners or council.

“I can’t believe there has been no mention

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“We all know people who bought dogs during Covid who couldn’t be socialised due to restrictions, yet our council properly does noth“They provide no education whatsoever, yet they have thousands of dollars in pet regMr Cini, who started his dog training ness after noticing the need for specialisedbusiservices for his dog Sasha, said he had personally offered to provide free training for dog owners to prevent dog attacks in the municipality, but

@StarNews_SE /Cranbournestarnews “Most people see a wagging tail munity.com.au and they Power Pooches’ Jake Cini and Sasha, cranbournenews.starcom think of a happy dog, but that who are advocating for increased is not the case at

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education for dog owners. 240150

Exciting Gracious when dogs are not contained to walk down the street sustained in the attack. were also used for education programs Successful Eagles to their property,” he said. on reOlympian and not have a fear of dogs rushing us or ownThe school girl and her parents Grigson sponsible pet ownership, including are underroad shows “Dogs that have not been adequately crackdown stood to be mentally shaken by add pace so- and events, the Maternal and Child the attack, but inspires Tooradin backcialised with It comes after a series of dog attacks gives Health other animals are also more likely Centre’s in the are grateful their dog and daughter We Are Family program and education on hoons are alive. to demonstrate aggression students “I want to be able

Two dogs were seized by Casey

Council7ofPAGE

underwent a six-hour operation

for injuries he

12496498-DL22-21

City of Casey manager of safer communi10 PAGE ties Daniel Osborne said the matter remains

dog rushes occur

if they SPORT find themselves not contained to their property, which can lead to instances of dog attacks.

“Keeping your dogs securely confined to your property, and ensuring they are always under effective control when out, are key measures to keep your pets and the community

He said pet registration fees help council provide a number of services, including reuniting lost pets with owners, investigating dog attacks, puppy farms, and prosecuting of-

in schools on safety around animals.

But Mr Cini said he remained sceptical about council’s investment in education for dog owners.

“A lot of people are misinformed about the reasons their dog might have social issues,” he said.

“We have to have proper education programs...why not give [owners] a quick online test or a copy of the legal requirement of owning a dog when they register their pets?”

In 2020/21, there was a total of 237 reported dog attacks in the City of Casey, 151 of the attacks on dogs and 51 attacks on humans.

GP Run cancelled Mr Osborne added that registrations

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Fresh faces at Lyndale Secondary

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The end of an era

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Husband and wife, principal and assistant principal.

WINTER “It’s a big deal. They really love it,” she says.

2022 “Everyone needs to be acknowledged at least one day a year.”

Her husband and principal Kevin says it goes to how much the school’s team cares.

Next term, the couple will face their own special day – their last day at the school that they have served for such an extraordinary time.

Mr and Ms Mackay have been there for 39 years and 36 years, respectively.

All up, their teaching careers have spanned 60 years and 45 years.

On 4 October, they will mark their retirement with a massive ‘general assembly’ at Dandenong High School hall.

Kevin and Jenny Mackay have served Mr Mackay OAM said it would Dandenong North Primary School be the first as principal and assistant principal assembly since the Covid pandemic’s for nearly four decades. 292591 start.

“It’s been an enormous part, where Picture: GARY SISSONS I get to food parcels or writing to government teach all the kids for half an hour. agen- follow each other to Dandenong We’ve missed cies on their behalf.

North Pri- the best teachers I’ve that, so it will be good to have a met. mary School. last one.

“And that kids know that you like “As the school became more complex “It’s going to be hard to avoid tears.” them. You Alarm bells rang for over have staff here that care about them – they’ll principal Mr Mackay the newly-appointed many years, Jenny’s experience has helped In their time, the school has built adwhen his wife was ap- dress an envi- ask the kids to ‘tell me more’. They go that the complexities. able reputation to bringing out the extra pointed to join the school. mile. best in from more than 50 diverse backgrounds. kids “From the synergies of effort you Mr Mackay worried about how get more “I think all the Dandenong schools to handle bang for your buck do a ter- the potential conflicts Its cutting-edge programs have than just two people. We’re of interest and staff dis- more been docu- rific job at that.” like two-and-a-half.” mented in award-winning films. harmony.

While deputy principal at Clayton Meanwhile, Ms Mackay Primary What makes the school special “We made it work,” he said. “And School in the 1980’s, Mr Mackay thank God cipal as an “incredibly describes the prinmet a first- she was appointed “warmth”, Ms Mackay says. The school is its creative and lateral here. ensures year teacher Jenny. thinker” who will always look for the families get what they need a better way “My job is to get the best teachers – whether it’s They of course later married, and I possibly of doing things. were to can to work with the children. Jenny is one of Continued page 10

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on the fivethe same period in 2021, and seven year average.

Speaking on those events, Superintendent John Road Policing Operations & Investigation as a “worryFitzpatrick described the increase of the vulnering trend” and issued a reminder abilities of motorcycle riders. some of the “These figures are alarming and coming is that AUTOBARN anecdotal evidence that we see to sitting out of Covid-19, people aren’t used NARRE WARREN and they’re Cnr Narre Warren in traffic for long periods of time Nth & maybe alchoosing a mode of transport that Lauderdale Rds Tuesday, 9 August, 2022 Fitzpatrick lows them to (avoid) that,” Supt said on Saturday 23 July. motoron “We’re seeing many more people bikes than we’ve seen ever before. a bike, it’s “Driving a motorcar and riding a shared responsibility about understanding what’s around where you are on the road and about you. We ask people to please be sensible mothey ride the way they drive and the way torbikes.” of President of the Cranbourne Chamber to decision Commerce Jeremy Dart said the given the cancel the event was “short-sighted”, take to missed opportunity for local traders /DandenongJournal @StarJournal_SE of the increased patronage. advantage 40¢ Inc. GST feedback While the Chamber has received aligning with from some retailers in the region to the Casey’s hypothesis that the disruption was problematic, riders and roads and their businesses options ness of the relationship between he was disappointed that alternative vehicles. approved. to see how had not been to the “We need to encourage people “It does bring significant numbers a valid form of transport. two-wheelers arePAGE the specific precinct,” Mr Dart said.

9 road-user region and SPORT would “We’re the most vulnerable “To allow a different model to exist with pathThere are plenty of group. Pedestrians are protected bike lanes. be a much better option. High Street) that ways and crossings; cyclist have back (of the traffic but facilities out the festival still.

We’re out there in the middle of would allow them to still have a would it we are such a solution (to road congestion).” foresight, some been “Had there in re The issue has come into sharp focus

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Cranbourne High Street shopping precinct in Gippsland before proceeding down the South Highway for the big race.

PatterCity of Casey chief executive Glenn a number of son said the council attributed was not made factors to their decision, which lightly. the signifi“Council has taken into account the disruption cant costs of running the event, aware of the to local traffic and we are also of Cranfrustration experienced by a number disbourne businesses, who face considerable seeing ruption due to the road closure, without said. an increase in patronage,” Mr Patterson dandenong.starcommun and budget ity.com.au “We will be retaining this event comare investigating options for another area that ofmunity event in the Cranbourne benefits to fers greater enjoyment and more to be anresidents and ratepayers, with details 199533 The last Cranbourne GP Run in 2019. nounced at a future date.”

60 per The City of Casey said approximately and they’ll be spendwas required will be at Phillip Island, cent of the $93,000 event budget money down there instead.” of the PAGE 2 South Gippsland ing their to manage the closure that4Casey would have PAGE He said he hoped Highway for the event. too late, allowing the Motorcycle a “re-think” before it’s John Eacott from the Victorian two-year absence. “extremely event to proceed after a VictoCouncil (VMC) said the council was decision.

“It’s not just locals and people within disappointed” with the City of Casey’s thing. Peoconstantly ria who attend - it’s a nation-wideSouth Wales, “The VMC had years of working ple come from Queensland, New said.

Eacott Mr Casey,” of get-toCity the with South Australia. The GP is an annual

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A copy of the amended Local Law No.1 can be viewed online at www.cclc.vic.gov.au

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St Clare’s Primary School Officer Foundation students and teachers of are celebrating reaching 100 days learning in the classroom. as Students enjoyed dressing up 100 year olds, with props of pearls, sushair rollers, walking sticks and penders donned for the special day. a The students celebrated with singshindig that involved dancing, berwicknews.starcommu 100. nity.com.au ing, colouring-in and counting to STORY PAGE 18

Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation (CCLC) confirms amendment of Local Law No.1, following the withdrawal of Cardinia Shire Council from CCLC on 30 November 2022.

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Wicks embrace unknown

By Marcus Uhe One month out from its round-one clash with Vermont, the make-up of Clint Evans’ Berwick side remains a mystery.

But after a season submarined by catastrophic injuries in 2022, in which they just survived relegation with only four wins, he wouldn’t have it any other way.

A total of 48 players pulled on the navy blue in the senior side, severely impacting their ability to gel and build any sort of continuity, with players such as Tim Gunn, Jesse Cirulis, Harrison Money and Jye Neal all spending considerable time on the sidelines.

It’s roughly the same number of players they’ve had consistently on the track this preseason, presenting a good problem for Evans and his new, strengthened coaching panel.

“We’re trying to put a side together for round one, and this is the good thing about it, it’s just so unknown,” Evans said.

“We’ve got 32 players on the board for round one, whereas last year we were probably lucky to have 22 because of the injuries in our preseason.

“We sort of go into this season with eyes wide-open, because we just don’t know what to expect.”

It’s the return of those players, plus the progression of a younger crop from a promising under-19 campaign - in which they finished two-points shy of a grand final berth - that has offset concerns about a perceived lack of recruiting.

While the loss of best-and-fairest winner Bryce Rutherford will leave a significant hole, Berwick will welcome Will Arthurson to the fold for the duration of the season, after splitting his time at Edwin Flack with VFL side Frankston in 2022.

Jackson Drake and Jordan Roberts have made the switch from The Basin, Kyle O’Sullivan comes over from Nar Nar Goon, and Brad Homfray joins from Beaconsfield, with the latter three all having a player/coach connection to Evans through their junior football days.

And still being new to the Eastern Football League, having only completed one full season after making the jump from the Outer East at the end of 2020, the mystery and uncertainty makes them both difficult to scout, and hard to assess where they stand in relation to the other sides.

Clint Evans is looking forward to another season coaching the ‘Wicks in 2023. 235196 “That’s the exciting thing for us as coaches at Berwick, we look like there’s something there, but we just don’t know, so it’s exciting that’s for sure,” Evans said.

“We’re finding our feet still and we want to stay in Premier, that’s our big thing.

“The step-up is just huge from where we’ve come from.

“We can’t get away with thinking what we did, and we’ve got to try and bridge that gap pretty quickly, because I think this year, the bottom two get relegated.

“It’s a massive change, but it’s a good change because we’ve got all these kids and we’re starting from scratch, which is probably not a bad thing.”

In order to mitigate the challenges that come with playing inexperienced sides and relying on youth, Evans and his coaching panel are leaning heavily on the educational aspect, already reviewing game footage and looking to dissuade the influence of lapses in concentration that hurt them so often previously.

Rob Monk will be trusted with managing the vision while juggling responsibilities with the midfield, recently retired Riley Heddles will coach the backs and Andrew Morrow the forwards.

“There was probably a fifteen minute gap last year where really good sides would kick four or five on us really quick, and then would shut the game out, and with such a young group we know that that’s going to happen,” Evans said.

“We’re doing a heap of game sense and showing them games from last year as well, around the setups, what they’re doing and where they’re standing.

“It’s easy for us to say ‘you’re not running right’ but when they see it themselves, they go, ‘shit, now I actually know what they’re talking about.’

“We’re really working on running patterns and what we’re doing when we haven’t got the football, and that’s probably been our biggest thing this year, the understanding of it.

“We’re going to be fit and we’re going to be

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS a running side, and we’re hoping to take the game on a little bit more.”

Facing strong opposition in upcoming practice games, when they’ll host Franskton YCW and Leongatha and head north to tackle Greensborough, Evans expects to have more of an idea of how to plug those gaps in his likely starting 22 as the season draws closer.

“Because it’s such a new group, people ask me’ what do you expect?’ But because it’s such a new group, I just don’t know what to expect,” he said.

“There’s a heap of kids but I won’t know until, probably three weeks time, where we can go, the guys who we think are up to it.

“We’ll know more in three weeks when we play some real quality sides over four quarters.

“I’ve got 32-35 to pick from at the moment and if we can keep that for round one that’ll be fantastic for us.

“What I’ve seen this year in preseason has been really exciting, and I’m really looking forward to the next few weeks.”

Bucks and Bloods to battle it out in a Turf 1 classic

By Marcus Uhe In Buckley Ridges and Springvale South, fans of the DDCA’s Turf 1 can rest-assured that Saturday’s grand final will determine a true reflection of the best side in this season’s competition.

The two finished second and first, respectively, after 14 rounds of the home and away season, with Buckley the only side to defeat the Bloods this campaign in the semi finals, after the defending premiers completed the season with a spotless record.

That win in a thriller at Alex Nelson Reserve squared the ledger at three wins apiece from their six meetings across the last two seasons, and clotted the Bloods’ three match win streak, which included last year’s 28–run victory in the finale.

A combined margin of 203 runs did not provide an accurate reflection of the difference between the two sides, as Buckley lost 7/49 in a meltdown in the second contest at home.

Significantly, it was the first time in the previous six meetings that a side had successfully chased, which could provide an extra boost in confidence for the boys from Park Oval.

Speaking after their defeat in round 12, Buckley Ridges coach Manjula Managsinghe said there was no mental edge that the Bloods had over his side, throwing down the challenge for his side to simply be better next time.

“I would really like to see another final against Springvale,” he said in February.

28 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 March, 2023

Buckley Ridges will be hoping for more high-fives on Saturday when they tackle Springvale Picture: ROB CAREW South in the DDCA Turf 1 grand final. 319027 “We have no concerns because we beat them easily twice last year and then got beaten in the finals, but we are confident.

“They’re a good team, there’s no doubt about it, but we are even better and on the day, we’ll be better.”

Jordan Wyatt will once again be the key wicket for the Buckley bowling attack, having made 295 in his last six outings against Buckley, including 59 in last season’s corresponding fixture.

But the heat will be on the Springvale South top-order, which has not fired in recent weeks and will be missing Ryan Quirk.

In the second half of the season, Cam Forsyth and Wyatt have only past 50 twice, Mitch Forsyth once and Jackson Sketcher is yet to raise the bat.

Jordan Mackenzie will fill the big shoes of Quirk at the top of the order, and has compiled a consistent year in the Turf 1 reserves competition, averaging 41 for the season and 47 in his last four hits in the reserves.

Injuries to Buckley Ridges opening pair Jayson Hobbs and Daniel Watson late in the season opened the door for a crisis at the top of their order but Jake Cronin filled the breach brilliantly, with scores of 59, 142, 24

and 37 in his four innings.

So good was his form that the return of the seasoned opening pair to the XI in the semi final saw Hobbs bat at three, in which he scored a patient half-century after being gifted a life early in the innings.

Springvale South all-rounder Blade Baxter said he’s expecting an even contest, but that his side knows what the formula for success is.

“I think the best thing is, we know that if we played our best cricket, the rest will take care of itself,” he said.

“We were maybe five or ten per cent off last week, and a couple of things didn’t go our way.

“We’ve beaten them relatively comfortably in the three games before that and lost relatively comfortably in the two games before that. It’s always just about momentum.

“I think the best thing is that it humbles us, losing, a little bit, after going undefeated the whole season.

“It shows that we’re not unbeatable and gives everyone that extra desire to win.

“Everyone’s really keen, up and about and it makes sense that the two best teams are in the grand final again.”

The DDCA Turf 1 Grand Final will begin at 11am on Saturday at Berwick’s Arch Brown Reserve.

Marcus’ Tip: With not needing to deal with Quirk and having vanquished their demons in the semi final contest, I’m expecting a rested and refreshed Buckley Ridges to turn the tables on last year’s grand final result. berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Cooper leads the charge

By Jonty Ralphsmith There have been four components of Beaconsfield’s monopoly in the Turf 2 competition this season: Tyler Clark, the growth of young role players, Mark Cooper’s on-field contributions and increased unity.

The common denominator that binds each, is Cooper.

Clark, the opening batter who has provided ubiquitous contributions all season played with the 33-year-old at Kooweerup prior to arriving at the Tigers.

The left-hand-right-hand opening pairing has worked wonders for Beaconsfield as their off-field friendship filters into on-field chemistry.

Each has the instinct to know when to go and when to play second-fiddle.

Part of Clark’s development this season has been the increased expansion in his strokeplay, something for which Cooper’s coaching is directly attributed.

Then there’s been Cooper himself.

In some instances, his output with the bat would win him the league medal yet he walks out to the middle each game with a batter who has more season runs in his kitty.

Regardless, if Clark doesn’t go on with it, Cooper does.

With so much experience and cricket nous to his name, he judges the state of the game and bats accordingly.

In a grand final against a perennially strong team, he assessed the situation early and never lost patience, nor got bogged-down before clicking into gear, scoring 60 off 109 balls.

“I think that innings personifies him as a cricketer: gritty, hard-working and he’s not a natural stroke player, but he finds ways just to make runs and that’s part of his love of the game and want to improve,” said opening partner Clark.

“He has got to the stage where he doesn’t have to look flashy to make runs and today was just a really workmanlike innings to set ourselves up for the back-end and Jesse did really well.

“It gave us the chance to post a reasonable total. He’s quite level-headed so he’s perfect in that role.

“It wasn’t too different to what we would normally speak about (in the middle), it was just about being positive and being proactive and as productive as we could to tick the strike over, even though Cranbourne bowled really well early without taking risks we didn’t need to.”

Intertwined with that philosophy at the crease is that he never plays beyond his means.

A foundation-setter who can play an anchor role, rarely this season did he play a lowpercentage shot.

When he did, it tended to be at a stage where it was hit-out or get-out, because his role had already been performed.

At Perc Allison Reserve, players having a clear understanding of their roles has been crucial, given how tricky it has proven to play in the past.

Jesse Busacca’s twin quickfire cameos in each of the finals this season has been a perfect example of a player developing into their ability.

A crisp front-foot ball-striker who was low on runs early in the season and lacked continuity, he finally found himself when it mattered.

Meanwhile, just to qualify for the final required a herculean effort from a middleorder player with Cooper and Tyler Clark out cheaply. Riley Clark’s 72 last week is one that has come on the back of technical work with Cooper in the nets.

Best-on-Ground Mark Cooper with the medal around his neck.

A shot which perfectly encapsulates the Beaconsfield season: Cooper and Clark celebrate a huge Picture: TIM RENWICK wicket. 323729

The premiership shot.

“He’s put a lot of work in over the last six months to get (players like Riley and Jesse) to a point where they can provide that for the team so I think that has been something we have started to get the benefits in the finals series and we will continue to get them in the next few years and I’m excited to see what he can build these younger players into,” Tyler Clark said.

With the ball, Cooper’s lengths create doubt, with his cricket nous instilling confidence for his team. It’s just about the summary that could be used to describe Mitch Tielen’s efforts in the final.

The left-arm tweaker got the first three wickets including Harsaroup Singh and Mick Sweeney to effectively suffocate the contest as Cranbourne fell well short of the 188-run target.

Tielen’s is another story of growth under the tutelage of Cooper, after being a bowler opposition teams might target as a weak link earlier in the season.

Cooper’s experience breathes an air of calm and confidence which had a young squad firing for the right two weeks of the season.

The success of the Tigers in this, their 100th season, extended beyond the First XI with all five senior teams reaching the semis.

While it was only Cooper’s men that reached the big dance, many attribute the holistic growth of the club to a newfound unity at Perc Allison under Cooper.

“He’s very humble, very giving, speaks well and cares and I think that transfers into his cricket,” Clark said.

“He genuinely cares about our players and giving them guidance, he individualises a lot of his coaching, it’s not so much technical, a lot of it is around culture and educating about when things aren’t going your way and how to respond. That has been a trademark of his for a period of time and I think that’s in local level the best way to go about it and it has paid dividends this year.”

Cooper has won a series of premierships

“We’ve tinkered with his role throughout the year and he’s gone back to the original role and his acceleration at the end really helped us,” Cooper said.

“It was a bit of a quieter season, but in a one-day season that happens if things go against you. So we did a bit of technical work about four weeks ago to open up the offside a bit more and he really bought into that and has worked really hard in the last few weeks to implement that and it really paid off.”

SPINNERS PERFORM ROLE All 10 Cranbourne wickets fell to spin.

For the seventh consecutive week, Beaconsfield opened up with left-arm spin up one end.

Beaconsfield’s most recent clash with Cranbourne in the last round of the home and away season saw Tielen overtake Madushanka as the preferred option.

He spun a web around the Eagles then, claiming 2/7 off eight, and he did it again on Saturday.

After a loose two overs that Harsaroup Singh pounced on, his next five yielded figures of 3/4.

That set Cooper up to attack and kill off any chance of a resurgence with his wrist-spin.

“His bowling was typical Coops,” Clark said.

“It’s difficult when he hits the right length to know whether to go forward or back.

The consistency and subtle variations set him apart.

“He stepped up to the plate and he always does with his bowling and he just bowled a consistent line and length, which made them force the issue and in grand finals that’s the way to go, to hammer a length and when you hammer a length, you’re waiting on them to do something, so having a score on the board, with them needing to score at a rate of knots, he made them make the mistake.”

By the time Madushanka got two late ones, celebrations had already started for Beaconsfield on the sidelines.

across a glorious local cricketing career, but revealed after the grand final that he thought it might take some time before Beaconsfield tasted that success.

“I wasn’t expecting it, I thought it was going to be a bit of a grind for a couple of years so we’ve definitely done really well to get into the position we are to compete for it particularly after Christmas, it was very up and down, the losses taught us a lot about our game and our group and we kept on pushing each other and striving for the end result,” Cooper said.

“It’s just taking those learnings into preseason and continue that development.”

“The ability for some of our players to stick at it even if the season wasn’t going great for them. They were still turning up, I was really impressed with them.”

A premiership built on everyone playing their roles: the Cooper way.

BUSACCA GOES BANG After Cooper’s platform-setting 60, which included cameos from Tyler (27 off 53) and Riley (32 off 63) Clark, the Tigers had the upperhand.

But the premiership was still going to hinge on someone capitalising on the early grind.

The run-rate was still manageable for Cranbourne to pull them back, so at 3/125, it felt something was going to happen to give one club clear momentum entering the innings break.

Jesse Busacca wrenched it Beaconsfield’s way.

Disregarding field placements, bowlers’ reputations and what had so far happened in the game, he played his natural game and targeted the straight boundaries.

It was an innings more akin to something you’d see with the stakes of a backyard cricket game on Christmas day than a grand final with a Turf 1 spot up for grabs.

He finished with 39 off 24 including three fours, one six and just four dots, taking what was shaping-up as a total of 170, to 7/187.

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STAR NEWS 29

SPORT

Girls get ready for action Star News journalist Jonty Ralphsmith takes a look at the Dandenong Stingrays and Gippsland Power girls squads ahead of the opening round of the Coates Talent League this weekend.

DANDENONG STINGRAYS Highly-rated coach Josh Moore has been an assistant to Nick Cox since 2019 and gets the opportunity to lead his own team in 2023 with the separation of the girls and boys programs.

Moore has experience as Melbourne’s Next Generation Academy coach, was Rye’s senior coach for five years in the MPNFL and Frankston Dolphins academy coach and more.

He takes over a team that was within a kick of the premiership last year but hasn’t looked in the rear-view mirror too much as he seeks a balance between stressing individual development and team success.

“We’re fairly quick and fit so we want the girls to take the game on and run, take risks and showcase their talent,” he said.

“The girls have never had such a long preseason so we’ve broken it down into different blocks: technique of fundamentals, conditioning, game-sense, structure and how to set up offensively and defensively.

“We want them to have confidence taking a risk.”

STRUCTURE: 2023 will be the first full-length season for the girls, bringing them in line with the boys program. It is part of an AFL commitment to boosting resources available to girls pathway programs in Victoria to support the progression and growth of girls footy.

STINGRAYS FIXTURE Round 1 v Sydney Swans Academy Saturday 18 March, Kilsyth Rec Reserve Round 2 v Geelong Falcons Saturday 25 March, Deakin University Round 3 v Eastern Ranges Sunday 2 April, Kilsyth Rec Reserve Round 4 v Gippsland Power Friday 7 April, Morwell Football Ground Round 5 v Oakleigh Chargers Friday 14 April, Shepley Oval Round 8 v Eastern Ranges Sunday 28 May, Kinetic Stadium, Frankston Round 9 v Bendigo Pioneers Saturday 3 June, Shepley Oval Round 11 v GWV Rebels Saturday 24 June, Mars Stadium Round 13 v Sandringham Dragons Saturday 8 July, Kinetic Stadium, Frankston Round 14 v Bendigo Pioneers Saturday 15 July, Shepley Oval Round 15 v Northern Knights Saturday 22 July, Preston City Oval Round 16 v Tasmania Devils Venue to be confirmed Round 17 v Geelong Falcons Saturday 2 September, Shepley Oval Players to watch: TARA QUINN: A medium defender and natural footballer, the Vic Country-listed prospect from Balnarring is a good user and decisionmaker but will be looking to bounce back from a practice match against Eastern when she had five kicked on her.

RUBY MURDOCH: Less exposed than some of her teammates at Talent League level, she has caught the eye with her skill-set having been named in the Vic Country hub and backed it

The Rays have one of the strongest squads this season. 323730 up with a strong preseason.

JEMMA RAMSDALE: Berwick’s Ramsdale will skipper the Rays in 2023. An excellent season as a high defender in 2022 gives her a strong base to work off.

MIKAYLA WILLIAMSON: A natural athlete and excellent runner, Williamson is the sort of player perfectly suited to modern AFLW football. Turns 18 next August, yet already has 16 Talent League games of experience under her belt across two seasons, showing she can do damage on the outside and will burn teams with her endurance. The Pines prospect is part of the AFLW academy and Vic Country hub.

BIANCA LYNE: Lyne is known for her vertical leap which has seen her play a lot of ruck through her NAB League career to date averaging 16.5 hitouts in her six NAB League games last year, but it is not believed that she will play there if she makes it to the top level. Thus, the Dandenong coaching staff are keen to tap into her skill-set and competitive edge and trial her in other areas of the ground. Is another who has exposed form across two NAB League seasons already. Ran an impressive yo-yo test in the Talent League preseason testing day last week and is part of the Vic Country hub.

MEG ROBERSTON: A genuine inside midfielder who was part of the Vic Country hub, the Berwick prospect can push forward and hit the scoreboard and will be given the chance in the Rays engine room this season. Averaged 12 possessions and three tackles last season. Has a basketball background which helps her read the play, make sound decisions and get out of tight situations. One of the better performed players in match-simulation recently, and also showed her clearing ability in a practice match against Eastern last week. The most likely currently outside Vic Country to push in.

ZARA CLAVARINO: The Berwick girl is the brother of former St Kilda-listed Oscar. She’s new to the system and has a high ceiling with plenty of development left. She plays taller than her size with long reach and a reasonable kick.

ZOE BESENKO: Besenko will assume the primary ruck mantle in 2023. A powerful athlete from Southern club Frankston Dolphins, she’ll also look to develop her forward craft in 2023.

JEMMA REYNOLDS: A small forward who can pinch through the midfield, the Langwarrin prospect’s pace and skill-set will be looked upon favourably by those that matter most.

SOPHIE BUTTERWORTH: A natural footballer that oozes talent, Butterworth has a knack of hitting the scoreboard, kicking nine goals in her six 2022 NAB League games. The growth area that could elevate her to the next level in 2023 will be showing her ability to work up the ground and impact there and pushing back inside 50. Was part of the Vic Country hub for the Rays and will roam their forward half in 2023.

GIPPSLAND POWER Coach Nathan Boyd is a new arrival to the Power. He comes from Williamstown’s VFLW program giving him the skills to develop female footballers.

FIRST MATCH: Round 2, Sunday March 26, v GWS Giants Academy at Highgate Rec Reserve.

FIRST HOME MATCH: Round 4, Friday 7 April v Dandenong Stingrays at Morwell.

SQUAD SUMMARY: Competitive in and around the contest is the way Nathan Boyd hopes Gippsland plays its footy. The Power had a camp last weekend where the players learned more about playing like a Gippslander...which those within the club hope will galvanise the group. Not only do the Power have the challenge of coming together as a full squad once a week - given the geographic region that is covered - but they also have only nine clubs to choose from. Process over result underlines the club’s philosophy.

FROM THE GAZETTE REGION LILY JACK (Devon Meadows): A small defender or forward who’s competitive in the contest and thrives on physicality. Knows where the goals are.

LUKA BUTTERS (Warragul Industrials): A taller defender who might be seen in the ruck.

Picture: JAZZ BENNETT

Jemma Ramsdale will lead the Rays in 2023.

Happy to go fist-first and makes good contact.

CHARLOTTE WALLER (Warragul Industrials): An athletic lockdown defender whose growth will be to drive out of contest when she wins her own footy.

INDIANNA MAKAI (Warragul Industrials): A 19-year-old who is splitting her time with Casey’s VFLW program. A hunting half-forward who can create chaos at stoppage.

SOPHIE SIMPSON (Berwick): A strong winger who gets into dangerous positions both offensively and defensively. Also capable as a pressure forward.

LILY LEIGHTON (Warragul Industrials): Her Talent League pre-season testing showed she was above average for all her tests against her position for drafted players. A hybrid forward and defender who will likely first get the opportunity to show her preseason commitment in defensive 50.

13-year-old helps Fountain Gate to grand final victory

By Jonty Ralphsmith A 13-year-old has led the Fountain Gate fourth XI to a comfortable premiership win on the weekend.

Nadim Nazif opened the bowling with his right-arm seam up options and claimed 5/8 to help bowl Hampton Park out for 80 at Max Pawsey Reserve which was chased down with three wickets in the shed.

A standout junior, from a club which has seen a generational shift in recent times, there’s great optimism that he could push into the First XI in the near future 30 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 March, 2023

for Fountain Gate.

“He can bowl inswingers and outswingers,” said clubman Justin Smith.

“He’s talented, got a smooth action and is a natural cricketer who’s willing to learn.

“He’s a real x-factor and we’re excited to see him develop in the next few years.

“It’s an outstanding result for him to believe in himself.”

Fountain Gate has dominated the E Grade Dandenong District Cricket Association competition this season, with the premiership also providing a swag of other storylines for the club.

Wayne Dart, former president Michael Kelaart, ‘keeper Turhan Khalil, Tim McLaren and skipper Ravinder Taneja are all committee members who have helped guide the club this season.

All have helped Fountain Gate maintain a reputation of developing strong junior cricketers amid upheaval, the Covid-19 pandemic and the difficulty of the Turf club being without a home venue this season.

Khalil, an aggressive leg-side dominant opener, got 20 upfront for Fountain Gate in response, before middle-order bat Vivian Vyas top-scored with 21.

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