At St Clare’s Primary School Officer, our school, along with the 45 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Sale, will celebrate Catholic Education Week from 19 May to 26 May.
The theme for this year’s celebrations is, Catholic Schools - Places of Encounter. ‘Let the words you speak always be full of Grace’, based on Colossians 4:6. Catholic schools are more than just buildings where students come to learn.
They are Places of Encounter where students can grow academically, spiritually and personally.” The ‘Speaking with Grace’ theme invites us to consider the power of our words and the impact our words may have on others. Words have the power to inspire, uplift, and transform lives but they can also be hurtful or discouraging.
This year’s theme aims to encourage students and those in our school community to use their words to build up others, to speak out against injustice, and to spread love and hope in the world.
Catholic Education Week is an opportunity for all Catholic schools to celebrate our distinctive mission and share features that are special about our schools.
Members of our staff will be attending a Leadership Mass and Dinner to celebrate and recognise outstanding service and excellence of staff and students in Catholic education in our Diocese in Traralgon on Friday, 19 May.
On Wednesday 14 May from 3.45pm to 4.45pm we will be running school tours for those who may be interested in enrolling at our school for 2024.
Our school will also hold an Open Morning on Thursday 25 May. St Clare’s students will be inviting a special person (grandparent, aunt,
uncle, parent, adult sibling) to come to school with them.
They will show their special person their work and their learning space and complete an activity together.
Special people can spend as much or as little time as they have in a learning space and can move from learning space to learning space if there are siblings.
If you are looking to enrol for 2024 we ask
that you contact us now as we are now preparing to offer placements for next year. For all enquires or to receive our enrolment documentation please phone 5940 6777 or email en rolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au
As Officer’s newest primary school, Kurrun Primary School has a strong focus on developing and maintaining a strong community where care and connection is at the centre. The school embraces and celebrates the broad diversity of the community, in which over twenty different languages are spoken and three quarters of parents were born in a country other than Australia.
Whilst Kurrun Primary School may be new, the land on which it is located has a long history. The school is proud of its link with Bunurong people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the school is situated. The school’s name ‘Kurrun’ comes from the Bunurong people, meaning wattle and the school’s logo is derived from a painting created by Bunurong artist, Adam Magennis.
The facilities at Kurrun Primary School are state-of-the-art offering two Learning Neighbourhoods, Administration and a Community Hub. The classrooms contained within the Learning Neighbourhoods are able to operate
as individual contained traditional classrooms or be opened up for large group collaboration. Students spend their day in their class with their classroom teacher. The Administration building contains staff offices, the Library and specialist learning spaces for Science and Art as well as a the Cooking Room. The Community Hub contains a competition grade gymnasium and also is currently home to the outside school hours care program. Outdoor areas include numerous playgrounds, passive play areas, undercover seating, hardcourts and a sports field.
Ultimately, everything we do as a school is directed towards one goal, the achievement of high levels of learning and wellbeing for each student.
Prospective parents and carers are invited to book a tour of the school. Bookings can be made through Administration by calling 5929 8222, emailing kurrun.ps@education.vic.gov. au or in person at 22 Allsburg Avenue, Officer.
Secondary students, did you know that cocurricular activities at school provide you with an avenue to find your calling? Embarking on new pursuits may inspire interests that last a lifetime. There are a variety of co-curricular activities at St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School, in the areas of sport, performing arts, public speaking and community service. Why not try an activity or two in each of these areas to discover what fits you?
Involvement in co-curricular activities provides you with confidence right from the start by simply stepping out of your comfort zone to try different activities. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and make new friends along the way.
At secondary school, St Paul’s offers a
range of sporting opportunities from surfing to gymnastics, basketball to swimming and even clay target shooting for you to get active. Delivered by highly-skilled teachers, you are guided every step of the way. Let your imagination run wild in the annual drama production, or you might get a good laugh out of the Theatre Sports competition’s improvisation antics. Alternatively, you can experiment in Art Club or at the Visual Arts Festival to see where your creative side takes you.
If music is more your style, you can join a Soul Band, play classical music with a String Orchestra, or be loud and upbeat with the Drum Battery. If you have high-level orchestral, choral and keyboard skills, then the St Paul’s Academy of Music may appeal to you.
Open to students by audition, the Academy builds professional musical experience providing you with the confidence to pursue further performance opportunities. Here, you will gain live concert exposure and collaborate with professional conductors, educators and performers.
Service activities are another way to contribute back to the community and be mindful of others.
Team Timor meets on a regular basis to fundraise for education facilities in East Timor.
Not only do you have the chance to keep busy for a good cause, but it’s also a great chance to catch up with other students.
You can also take on more responsibility in
a leadership role in the senior years such as a Peer Support Leader or as a Co-curricular Captain. Or be the voice for other students as a member of the Student Representative Council.
Perhaps you enjoy the idea of expressing yourself? Public speaking or debating events help you to build confidence in speaking in front of others - a most valuable skill for the future.
St Paul’s is currently taking enrolments for 2025 with limited places for 2024.
To learn more, or to arrange a personalised tour, please contact the school’s Enrolments Office via enrolments@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au or visit their website stpaulsags.vic.edu.au
Discover a place of learning that is committed to the growth, development and potential of all students, whatever their academic level and wherever their futures may take them. We are dedicated to ensuring that all students are nurtured, feel a strong sense of belonging and are able to actively prepare themselves for the future. From the arts to science, sport and beyond, the potential in your child is limitless. We recognise that every student has an individual education journey, and we work to personalise learning to encourage and support each and every child.
We would like to share with you a little about why Cardinia Primary School is so special and lives up to its motto of being a “Caring Family School”. We are a small country school not far from Officer, Clyde and Pakenham.We provide an excellent education in an environment that is nurturing, catering for every child’s needs. Our classrooms are closed plan, and our class sizes are small. Our experienced and highquality teachers are dedicated to providing the very best education for every child in our care. We have specialist teachers in the areas of Performing Arts, Visual Arts and Science. Our Eco Zone is a place for our children to learn about sustainability and looking after our planet.
We believe that the social aspects of schooling are also important, and we provide a yard experience that is above and beyond expectations. We have four playgrounds; one of these is a fitness track and another has exercise equipment and outdoor musical instruments. Our children love playing in our two cubby
houses, and make full use of our undercover basketball court, our netball court, our Ga Ga pit and so much more.
Traditions are important here at Cardinia. Every year our community joins in for our beach picnic, an Easter bonnet parade, a sleepover, a whole school camp, a Christmas concert and many other events throughout the year.
We invite you to come and see us at our Open Day on 3 June between 10am and 12noon so that you can get a first-hand look at our wonderful school. We have vacancies now at some year levels, and for Foundation for 2024. Cardinia Primary School situated at 2405 Ballarto Road, Cardinia or telephone 5998 8323.
Looking forward to meeting you.
Susan Wepster, PrincipalUniversities need to make a fundamental change in how they educate teachers to meet the needs of autistic children.
Australian universities need to get on the same page in preparing teachers to meet the needs of autistic students or risk more teachers leaving the profession and failing generations of autistic children.
New research has shown Australian universities are failing to prepare teachers and post graduate educators to meet the needs of burgeoning numbers of autistic students in Australian classrooms.
Senior lecturer and education researcher from Charles Sturt University Dr Rahul Ganguly says educating students on the autism spectrum is arguably the most challenging task confronting schools worldwide.
From 2015 to 2018, rates of autism have increased by an estimated 25 per cent.
“Highly individualised and idiosyncratic personality traits, manifestation of irregular and occasionally even advanced skills that accompany diagnoses of autism, and a dramatic increase in the autism prevalence rates co-exist with an increased need for schools, specifically teachers, to deliver empirically supported practices,” Dr Ganguly says.
“However, the reality is that many Australian teachers are not prepared to deal with the diverse needs of students on the autism spectrum or the extreme responsibilities that come with being an inclusive education teacher.”
He says part out of the fallout from that mismatch are high levels of teacher attrition (75 per cent every 10 years), with just 30 per cent intending to stay in the profession until retirement.
“With so many teachers leaving the profession, many students on the spectrum are being taught by less experienced teachers year after year,” Dr Ganguly says.
“Its little wonder that research shows that students on the autism spectrum have the worst educational outcomes of any students with a disability.”
In Australia, there is no uniform requirement for teacher education programs to offer training in autism.
“Our research suggests that most do not incorporate direct instruction on autism-specific EBP,” Dr Ganguly says.
“Given the plethora of untested interventions in the field of autism, having a less experienced teaching force does not bode well for students with autism.”
Dr Ganguly says the solution lies in providing consistent education for teachers in the use of scientific methods and evidence-based practices (EBP).
“Instead, what we have found is that the importance of training educators with autism-related disability-specific knowledge actually runs contrary to Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Programs in Australia,” he says.
“These programs have given preference to noncategorical and cross-categorical approaches in the belief that generically trained teachers with occasional in-service training can effectively teach children on the autism spectrum.
“Even in our research on postgraduate courses in Australia, we found that many postgraduate courses in special and inclusive education do not consistently cover evidencebased practices.
“We also found a great variation in the na-
Universities need to make a fundamental change in how they educate teachers to meet the needs of autistic children.
ture of the postgraduate programs.
“At a time when there is an increased need for teachers with specialised training to teach and lead teaching of students with ASC
and related disorders, Initial Teacher Education and Postgraduate programs in Australia are moving away from such specialised emphases.”
Sustainability is a focus of many schools these days, with students often encouraged to engage in practices such as packing ‘nude’ lunches, recycling and switching off lights when not in use. How can parents help encourage their kids to be sustainable students? Here are five tips from SustainabilityVictoria:
1. Lunches - get the kids to make their own lunch and use containers suited to nude food, eliminating the need for disposable wrapping. If you do need to wrap, reusable beeswax wraps can be used. Find out about them online or do a course on making them at your local neighborhood house or community arts centre.
2. Make your own snacks - despite what they say, many kids have plenty of time on their hands. Teach them to make their own muesli bars and other snacks. Be patient, it’s a great life skill. They will learn to be more independent and have
3. Get more value - use the ‘Love Food Hate Waste’ website to get great recipes to use last night’s leftovers in exciting ways for school (and work) lunches.
4. Use what you’ve got - save money by digging out pens, pencils and other consumables from drawers, cupboards and bags, rather than buying new ones. Many stationery makers also have a range of notebooks made from recycled paper.
5. Textbooks and uniforms - most schools have secondhand book and uniform shops, but your local op shop is also worth trying. Many high school English and literature books are available for free on Kindle. For other subjects, ask teachers what the difference is with this year’s version of a textbook compared with last year’s, as the older edition may still be suitable.
Welcome to Education Week 2023, our annual celebration of education, and a chance to show off our brilliant government schools across Victoria.
Education Week is between 14 May and 20 May. This year’s theme is ‘Active Learners: Move, Make, Motivate’ and it highlights some of the amazing ways students can learn through physical activity, hands-on learning and student voice.
Being active isn’t just about getting outdoors and looking after our physical healthit’s about keeping our minds alive and active with imagination.
At our schools that could mean getting involved and learning new skills through art, science, technology, student leadership, and even by being connected to your community.
As the Minister for Education I want to make sure that every student feels strong and confident so they can be an active learner.
I’m really proud of the work that’s happening to support students including reforms to disability inclusion, mental health support and vocational education in schools.
As part of this, I want to thank our teachers, principals, education support staff and everyone in the local community who together make our schools a great place to learn.
I hope all Victorian government school students get involved in some of the great excursions, incursions and online events hosted by leading culture, sport and education organisations.
From virtual storytimes to footy and coding workshops, there’s something on offer for all year levels, and some professional learning for teachers too.
To find more about the free events and activities that your school can participate in visit vic.gov.au/education-week
However you choose to celebrate EducationWeek this year, I hope you have a fantastic week!
Guiding your child from their early years into Primary School is a journey filled with learning and growth. The initial leap into school life is a significant milestone that can sometimes bring uncertainties. However, our faith-filled community at Heritage College is here to support you every step of the way.
To ease the transition, Heritage College is proud to present our ‘Step into Prep’ program. This Christ-centered initiative offers an informative session where families can engage with our Prep teachers, ask questions, and find answers, all within the context of our Christian ethos.
The first year of Primary School at Heritage College is a time of abundant learning, where the seeds of academic, social, and emotional growth are sown in the fertile ground of Christian values. During Prep, children build confidence and learn to live out their faith as they develop literacy and numeracy skills through an engaging curriculum. Our educators provide a nurturing environment, embodying the love of Christ in their teaching, and introducing students to the arts, music, and languages. Our Prep students are encouraged to interact with the broader campus community, fostering a spirit of unity and mutual respect through the ‘buddies’ program and participation in other on-campus events.
As a significant part of the ‘Step into Prep’ program, Orientation Days are conducted throughout Semester 2. These days provide incoming Prep students the opportunity to explore the classrooms, meet their future teachers and classmates, and familiarise themselves with learning areas and activities
Help
in a supportive environment.
confidence.
This helps ensure that when the day comes to start Prep, the transition is less of a leap and more of a step forward in their spiri-
tual and educational journey.
Expressions of Interest for Prep 2024 are open for Officer and Narre Warren South campuses. To find out more, visit heritage-
college.vic.edu.au/prep
Heritage College, two Campus locations, Starling Road, Officer and Centre Road, Narre Warren.
Victoria’s first fully academically selective coeducational Government High School, and one of only four academically selective high schools in the state, Nossal High School has been purpose designed to suit an adult, academically focused and highly aspirational cohort of students. The buildings are high tech and ICT rich, mirroring features and approaches usually found in universities.
Nossal High School is committed to providing an innovative, inclusive and dynamic educational environment. We aim to challenge our students to be creative and critical thinkers with good communication skills and the resilience necessary to succeed in an ever-changing world. We aim to build their skills, self-confidence, leadership abilities and community spirit through a rigorous, but rich and varied, curricular and co-curricular program. We want our graduates to be ambitious, ethical and responsible citizens who conduct themselves with humility and compassion.
For further information regarding Nossal
High School we invite you to visit nossalhs.vic. edu.au or book a place in one of our Principal run tours or at our upcoming Information Night. When you choose a Victorian Selective Entry High School, you are ensuring your child has the opportunity for an exceptional education at one of only four schools exclusively designed for academically talented students.
As proud government schools, each school has a unique approach and a shared purpose in nurturing excellence in young adults fromYears 9-12. For further information about Nossal and the otherVictorian Selective Entry High Schools visit www.selectivehighschools.education
Applications for 2024 enrolment are now open. Visit our website at https://www.nossalhs.vic.edu.au/enrolment-information/ for more information.
Nossal High School Tours
Principal tours run from 9.30am on specific dates throughout the year. Bookings for these tours are available attrybooking.com/CFYUJ
“It feels like a community where my child will be nurtured.”
Time and time again, this is what parents and guardians tell me is their main reason for choosing Lakeside College.
As a Christian College in the Lutheran tradition, we couldn’t be happier that families are experiencing exactly what we set out to provide.
Education is all about relationships - between teacher and student, family and staff and school and community.
Lakeside College prioritises these critical relationships as we carry out our service to the local community.
As a smaller Christian school of 574 students (growing to 650 students) from Years Prep to 12, there is a richness of relationships and attention to individuals that set the College apart from others. It allows us to ensure that students develop intentionally in mind, body and soul.
Students are nurtured across the curriculum, inside and outside the classroom, through innovative learning opportunities in core subjects, a vibrant arts program, technologies and sport.
“It feels like a community where my child will be nurtured, cared for and known.”
In a nutshell, Lakeside College seeks to support students to nurture their God-given gifts through a love for learning, which sets them up to go out into the world and make a positive impact.
Our highly qualified and committed
staff, know each child deeply through our intentional pastoral care program and relish in the opportunity to teach students across the different areas of the school.
Situated in the beautiful Lakeside precinct, our College boasts excellent facilities on campus including access to the co-located facilities provided through the Cardinia Cultural Centre, the Toomuc Playing Fields and the Cardinia Life gym.
As an open enrolment Christian College, we welcome all families regardless of their faith tradition into our community.
As Principal, I relish taking families on tours each week on Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons and at other times as needed - please take me up on the offer! It is a joy to show families around our gorgeous campus.
Robert TassoniPrincipal Lakeside College
2 Portobello Rd, Pakenham Phone 5941 7544 www.lakeside.vic.edu.au
A co-educational, academically selective government school for highly able students in Years 9-12
As one of only four Victorian Selective Entry High Schools, we offer a broad range of curricular and co-curricular experiences and programs, strongly influenced by the students themselves who have an active and authentic voice in the running of the school. We offer significant sporting, creative, performing, musical, community, cultural, social, and leadership opportunities to our students alongside a comprehensive academic study program.
Visitors are welcome to attend school tours with the Principal, and information evenings are available throughout the year. We invite you to visit us.
http://nossalhs.vic.edu.au/
Thinking about a secondary school enrolment for 2024? The principal of Pakenham Secondary College, Aaron Smith, invites you to consider Pakenham Secondary College for your child next year and beyond.
Our excellent reputation in the local community in best supporting our students with their learning and wellbeing continues to grow - we are a school that is ‘on the move’.We continue to make a number of changes in 2023, which will further benefit our students moving forward.
Our new College motto, ‘We Grow Through Connection’ will best support our College Community in the years to come. Growth and improvement are linked to the positive relationships and connections we have with others. At Pakenham Secondary College, ‘We Grow Through Connection’, valuing the strong sense of community and teamwork that exists between students, families and self. Our new motto aligns well with our SOAR Values of Social and Personal Responsibility, Opportunities for All, Achieving Personal Best and Respectful Relationships.
At Pakenham Secondary College, we are committed to positive relationships.
We understand that student growth is linked to the positive and meaningful connections they have with others. As a College, we are dedicated to further improving the learning and wellbeing outcomes of all of our students by building respectful, positive and productive connections with our College Community.
Pakenham Secondary College strives to provide opportunities in areas important to our College Community - Growth in Learning andWellbeing, Sport, the Performing Arts, Student Leadership and Our Community. With a hardworking and dedicated staff, we are committed to working with our families to
provide as many opportunities as we can for our students in these important areas of the College. Importantly, our students are achieving some great results. In 2022, our VCE overall study score increased significantly and many of our NAPLAN results improved.
Many of our student survey results demonstratethatourstudentsarepositiveabouttheir
experiences at Pakenham Secondary College. With a rich 50-year history in our region, we are well placed to offer a personalised approach to teaching and learning ensuring that we work with all of our students to tailor individualised pathways that are important to them. We provide outstanding opportunities for our students in the classroom and as part
of our co-curricular program.
I welcome families to the Pakenham Secondary College Community. I very much look forward to showing prospective families around our great school as part of a College Tour - please visit our College website at pakenhamsc.vic.edu.au or contact our general office on 5945 1433.
Officer Primary School is committed to providing a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for all students. Our school recognises the importance of the partnership between our school and parents and carers to support student learning, engagement and wellbeing. We promote the philosophy that all children can learn and become effective learners. As a learning community, made up of parents, staff and students, we hold high expectations of self and others. Our purpose is to equip the learning environment with the best human and physical resources so that our students are supported to:
· Achieve their full educational and personal potential.
· Strive for excellence.
· Participate in innovative teaching and learning experiences.
· Develop independence and resilience.
· Become effective and productive members of a global society.
We place great importance on building authentic relationships with parents and caregivers, to promote high levels of involvement in the development and learning of their children.
Excellence - Striving for personal best as an individual and a member of a team.
Respect -We value the rights and contributions of staff, students and community members.
Kindness - We are compassionate and show concern for others.
Honesty - Being truthful to myself and others. Resilience - Bouncing back when things get tough by being a positive problem solver.
Officer Primary School provides a sharing, caring and friendly family atmosphere.
Students are the highest priority and are always treated with consideration and respect. They are encouraged to accept responsibil-
ity for their own physical, academic, social and emotional development. The individual rights and needs of every child are recognised in all aspects of school life. Our school is committed to the provision of an exciting and challenging learning environment.
The school is very proud of its more than 130 years of history as the key provider of primary
Through our Values (Achievement, Care and Equity) we will ensure every student learns and achieves, to equip them with the knowledge, skills and dispositions for lifelong learning and be ready to take their place as positive contributors to their local and global community. Everything we do is focused on identifying and maximising individual potential through the use of the very best tried and tested teaching and learning practice within a supportive and caring environment.
Book online or call:
9703 1266
Over the next 4 years Hallam Senior College will transition to a Year 7-12 school to meet the growing enrolment demand in Melbourne’s south-east and give the families of the Hallam community the certainty they have a quality local school for their entire secondary schooling journey.
The new Hallam Secondary College is committed to the delivery of a comprehensive and high quality education program that ensures ‘Success for all’.
The new College will build on its current strengths at senior level in vocational education and its Sports Academy to provide a strong offering of academic programs for its student cohort.
schooling in the area and the strong links it has built with Officer families. As an established schoolweprovideattractivegrounds,enhanced by a number of stately mature oak trees that provide shade and protection from the summer sun. There are numerous areas for students to play, learn and relax. The more traditional layout of our classrooms provide families with an alternative to open learning environments of-
fered at the more modern local schools. Our school motto Learn to Live, Live to Learn is strongly reflected through our daily practice in teaching and learning.We recognise that for students to become engaged learners, the learning environment needs to value and build upon individual strengths and provide support for individual needs.
An exciting change is happening at Hallam Senior College. The College has begun the process of being reorganised and expanded to cater for the growing demand in Melbourne’s south-east and provide families with a quality local school for their entire secondary schooling journey. The school has been renamed Hallam Secondary College and will progressively move to a Year 7-12 school over the next three years.
Through our Values (Achievement, Care and Equity) we will ensure every student learns and achieves with the knowledge, skills and dispositions for lifelong learning while assisting them to be ready to take their place as positive contributors to their local and global community. Everything we do is focused on identifying and maximising individual potential, through the use of the very best tried and tested teaching and learning practice within a supportive and caring environment.
Our mission is to provide a comprehensive and guaranteed high quality education program that ensures ‘Success for All’.
Our aim is to create a school which is:
· a true learning community
· a place students wish to attend, staff want to work and parents feel welcome
· fulfilling student potential and,
· preparing students for life beyond school
As a small to medium size secondary school we have the advantage of being able to know every learner as an individual.
Despite being a smaller secondary the new school will have an extensive range of Senior Pathways available to our students including VCE (both traditional Academic and the new Vocational Major), the highly regarded Sports Academy in Years 10 to 12 and access to the largest VET provision of any school in the Region.
A multiple pathway approach provides opportunities for all students. Whatever the next step, students finishing at Hallam Secondary College will have formed a clear sense of what they want to achieve and the
Hallam Secondary College has a reputation for challenging students to be involved in a range of activities which will help shape them as a learner and active community member.
pathway to this outcome. Students work closely with the staff, professional course advisors and experts from industry to shape their choices.
Staff are committed to student success.
The quality of our teaching and support staff is excellent, making a significant difference to student outcomes. Targeted enhancement programs across the Academy structure assists students to reach their potential.
Appreciating and embracing different backgrounds, cultures and identities is built into our school curriculum and celebrated through specific community events.
Our College has a reputation for challenging students to be involved in a range of activities which help shape them as a learner and active community member. We expect our students to work hard, be involved in the wide range of extra curricula activities and be active members of the local community.
At St Patrick’s Primary we aim to provide a comprehensive education that allows opportunities for all our students to thrive. To achieve this, we have introduced a new specialist subject this year.
Our Performing Arts class provides a space for our students to explore and express their creative side.
Our students are learning how music can affect your emotions, with this term focusing on dance.
Our exciting classrooms create an environment that allows for a level of creativity to be nurtured.
From this foundation our students can create their own music whether that be as a team or their own distinct voice.
With the digital world becoming more prevalent in our society we have renamed STEM to DigiTech at our school.
With this class students are taught what it means to be a responsible digital citizen and more importantly how to be safe online.
Part of this class includes the use of chrome books and iPads to program robotic toys.
They also utilise recycled materials and Lego to assist in the planning, production and testing of objects.
This mix of technology and hands-on equipment enables our students a further understanding of the design process and allows for critical thinking and problem-solving techniques to be explored.
A long-standing specialist class at our school is Japanese.
This weekly class helps our students to become better communicators while creating a level of understanding and respect of other cultures.
The students are taught how to speak and read this language, but also the culture and history behind it.
Just last year our students participated in a Kendo class.
Experiencing this first hand allows them to understand the connection between the language they are being taught in class and the cultural practises behind it.
Catholic schools across Gippsland and Melbourne’s outer south east will open their doors to the community to celebrate Catholic EducationWeek 2023 from 19 May to 26 May.
This is a chance for everyone to witness the vibrant faith and learning environments in their local Catholic Schools with Open Days, activities and events planned.
Mr PaulVelten, Director of Catholic Education in the Diocese of Sale, said Catholic Education Week was an opportunity to celebrate the wonderful achievements of Catholic schools and to highlight the inspiring activities taking place in Catholic schools every day.
“This year’s theme is, Catholic SchoolsPlaces of Encounter. ‘Let the Words You Speak Always Be Full of Grace,’ based on the Bible Scripture, Colossians 4:6.
“This message reflects our commitment to promoting kindness, respect, and compassion in our schools and communities. Catholic schools are more than just buildings where students come to learn. They are Places of Encounter where students can grow academically, spiritually and personally.”
“The ‘Speak with Grace‘ theme aims to encourage students and school communities to use their words to build up others, to speak out against injustice, and to spread love and hope in the world.“
The official launch of Catholic Education Week will take place with a Leadership Mass and Dinner on Friday 19 May in Traralgon.
We pride ourselves on being a Catholic, welcoming school where everyone is valued and respected. Our committed and professional staff provide a safe, caring environment where we aim to engender a love of learning in every student.
During the evening several awards will be presented including the ‘Spirit of Catholic Education Awards.’ These important awards are peer-nominated and acknowledge staff who are making an outstanding contribution to the life of their school community.
Mr Velten said many things have changed in education in recent years and over decades but the dedication of Catholic teachers and staff focused on nurturing each child’s potential and to inspire faith and inspire learning remains at the core.’’
“Our Catholic schools strive to be welcoming, supportive and inclusive places where children can thrive.”
Schools across the Diocese extend an invitation to families and members of the community to visit an Open Day or event at a Catholic school in their local area and see the Catholic education difference.
The Diocese of Sale covers 38 Catholic primary schools and seven Catholic secondary schools educating almost 20,000 students and employing more than 3,000 staff. The Diocese spans a geographic area from Melbourne’s outer south east suburbs from Narre Warren and Cranbourne, to Wonthaggi and Philip Island in the south, and right throughout Gippsland to Orbost in the east.
For tours and enrolment information, contact a Catholic school in your local area or go to:
www.doscel.catholic.edu.au/about-us/ find-a-school
St Brigid’s, Officer extends an invitation to you to find out more about our great school.
St Brigid’s Primary School’s vision is to create a modern, contemporary and innovative approach to learning that is purposeful and relevant to the lives of children and families today.We believe in partnerships in learning and fostering a nurturing atmosphere in which staff, parents and children work as a team to develop in the children, the skills to meet life’s challenges with confidence, resilience and enthusiasm.
We are committed to ensuring success in
literacy and numeracy, as well as a knowledge and understanding of our ever-changing world through inquiry learning from a Catholic world view, faith and life inquiry.
We enjoy expansive grounds. This includes a grassed oval, Chapel, netball/basketball court, multipurpose room, amphitheatre, Japanese garden, running track and our fitness stations, junior and senior adventure playgrounds, a large vegetable garden, and chicken coop which supports our science and sustainability curriculum.
We have almost completed an exciting new
St James Nar Nar Goon is a Catholic school where everyone is welcome. During Catholic EducationWeek we celebrate our school, our welcoming and nurturing community and our commitment to our Faith.
We are fortunate to offer a wide range of learning experiences for our students. Our staff are very proud of our students and this is evident in the respectful relationships they build across all levels of the school. They know every child and something unique about them and take the time to ensure that every student knows that they are a valued member of the school community. They are passionate educators who are focused on the academic, spiritual and social emotional growth of all students. Our students care for and support each other and actively work together to include each other in activities. Recently, with the support of our Parents and Friends fundraising group
and input from students, we relocated and reimagined our Library. It is a warm and welcoming space that is well resourced with hundreds of books and where students are encouraged to foster their love of reading in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.
We are fortunate to have undercover and indoor facilities which caters for a range of activities including sport, weekly assemblies and other activities that support student learning. We offer a diverse range of specialist classes - Japanese, Visual Arts, Physical Education, Digi-Tech and Performing Arts for students in Foundation to Year Two. We understand that parents are very busy and therefore provide individualised school tours at a time that is convenient for families. Please call the school to make a booking for a school tour so you can see the wonderful work being done at St James and our before and after school program.
two-storey building development which will house more classrooms and specialist subjects’ areas. Before and After School Care is also available onsite morning and afternoon.
St. Brigid’s offers a comprehensive specialist program of STEM, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science and Sustainability and Japanese. Student welfare is a high priority and we have a Student Counsellor.
We see ourselves as a community of lifelong learners and provide an environment that is challenging, stimulating and fosters creativity.
St Brigid’s provides an environment that is challenging, stimulating and fosters creativity.
Helen Staindl is an experienced educator dedicated to fostering student well-being and a love of learning. She has served as a Principal in various locations, gaining extensive experience in Catholic and private sectors, including the International Baccalaureate Program.
Helen’s role on the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Board has shaped education in Victoria, ensuring high-quality education for all students. At St Clare’s Catholic Primary School in Officer, she has established a vibrant learning culture that prioritizes students’ needs.
Helen understands the link between student well-being and learning. She has implemented programs promoting physical and emotional well-being, such as mindfulness practices and social-emotional learning.
In summary, Helen Staindl is a respected educator who has made significant contributions to education. Her passion and commitment have created a supportive environment at St Clare’s Catholic Primary School, where students thrive academically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Helen’s unwavering dedication to student well-being and educational excellence has made her a highly respected and influential figure in the field of education.
Kurrun Primary School is dedicated to developing an inclusive school community that fosters connectedness and belonging. Our goal is to empower and inspire students to contribute to their community. We acknowledge the Bunurong people as the Traditional Custodians of the land where the school is located and appreciate their ongoing contribution.
Our school values of Inclusion, Courage, Aspiration, Respect, and Inclusion (I CARE) are integral to everything we do. We prioritize building strong partnerships among students, staff, parents, and the wider community. We take pride in serving our diverse community and creating an inclusive school environment.
At Kurrun Primary School, we equip students with essential literacy, numeracy, and life skills to thrive in a changing world. Our evidence-based, high-quality learning and teaching program ensures personalized education that meets students’ academic, social, emotional, physical, and creative needs.
Students are continuously supported and challenged in their learning through a comprehensive curriculum plan that includes indigenous perspectives, history, and culture. We are honored to serve the educational needs of children in the Officer community.
My name is Robert Tassoni and I have the privilege of just being appointed as the Principal of Lakeside College in Pakenham. I have a strong held belief that a Lutheran education provides students with the characteristics and qualities to make them wonderful adults with a commitment to serving their community and God. Throughout my career I have held a number of senior leadership positions in a variety of schools. I have also had extensive experience in the leadership of learning and teaching. At Lakeside College, each student is valued for the individual gifts of which they are blessed. Our approach to learning is holistic, ensuring each student is known, loved, cared for and appreciated. We provide all of our students with a safe and supportive environment in which to grow, learn and flourish through personalising our approach to learning. We also recognise and value the importance of relationships and the role positive relationships with parents/guardians play in supporting their child through their educational journey. We have a wonderful, dedicated and committed teaching staff who continue to learn and work together to improve their craft as teachers. The most important thing about our teachers is that each and everyone of them view their work with students as part of a vocation which involves a deep-seated commitment to the important work they do. We welcome existing and potential parents/guardians to come and visit us at Lakeside College as we run a number of events and formal tours throughout the school year.
Welcome to Pakenham Secondary College. We are a proud College Community best meeting the needs of our students.
Our new College Motto, ‘We Grow Through Connection’, guides us in our approach to education – we can all continue to grow and thrive by developing positive and meaningful connections with others.
At Pakenham Secondary College, we have a real focus on learning growth and wellbeing, together with tailoring pathways that are of interest to our students. We provide an outstanding Teaching and Learning Program that is well supported by extensive co-curricular opportunities in areas important to our students such as Sport, the Performing Arts and Leadership.
We value teamwork at Pakenham Secondary College where families, staff and students all work together to achieve outstanding results. We provide a learning environment that is built on high expectations for all, where all students are engaged in a curriculum that is challenging and diverse.
I am very proud to be the Principal of our great school working alongside colleagues and families who are committed to achieving positive learning and wellbeing outcomes for our students. I am committed to working with our College Community to ensure that we remain the school of choice in our region.
A Pakenham husband and father is being remembered as a BMX loving, proud family man, after he lost his life in a senseless attack outside a Sale pub early this month.
Clint Allen was fatally stabbed in the early hours of Sunday 7 May when he was walking home after celebrating his wife’s birthday with his family at Criterion Hotel in Sale.
A 20-year-old man has been charged with murder.
In the aftermath of Mr Allen’s death, the Pakenham and Officer community has rallied around his wife Bek and daughters Stef and Makala, creating a GoFundMe page to help support the “heartbroken, shattered and truly devastated family”.
The Allen family were part of the Pakenham Officer community for 10 years before setting off on a caravan trip around Australia in early 2022.
They had returned from that trip just four months ago, settling in the regional Victorian town of Sale, when the tragic incident occurred.
Friend Stacey Kumar remembered the father of two as an “adoring and incredible husband…proud dad and a mate and friend to so many”.
“Clint had the ability to make every person in his presence - smile, feel joy, love life and constantly laugh, especially with his Dad Jokes,” Ms Kumar said.
“It was a regular occurrence when they were travelling for Bek to send me through a video or a message of Clint’s most recent Dad joke that she cringed at but knew it would make me cry with laughter.”
The 38-year-old was an “incredible and adoring husband“ to wif Bek, she said.
“Not everyone in life is lucky enough to find their soul mate, but Clint and Bek found each other and even after 16 years together they still acted as if they were in their honeymoon period,“ she said.
Friend Adrian Yarzabal agreed the couple “seemed like they never left the honeymoon period of their relationship“.
“They were always lovey-dovey around each other,“ he said.
“Bek was always Clints queen. They even had matching my king and queen tattoos.“
Clint loved the outdoors, bike riding, AFL and fixing anything with an engine, Mr Yarzabal said.
When his own son reached his teenage years, Clint took him under his wing.
“He would pick Ethan up and take him on bike rides and share his bikes with him.
“Ethan had a bike of his own at this stage but it had been left outside for months and had rusted and deteriorated.
One day Clint picked this bike up and took it home with him, returning with it a couple of
weeks later “looking like brand new”.
“Clint had restored this bike, re-sprayed it, changed parts around and gave Ethan his bike back literally as good as new.
“Clint did this in his own time and out of his own pocket. That’s what Clint was like, he’d go above and beyond to help a mate.”
It didn’t matter if you had known Clint 10 years or ten minutes..if he was in a room there would not be anyone in that room that would be left out of any conversation.“
Robin Fisher said it was “always a joy to be in [Clint’s] presence“.
“He was the most genuine, heartfelt and loving man you’d ever meet.
“[He was] always working on a car or bike in his garage, and that’s how I would always like to remember him for; his love for anything with wheels.
“Clint we will miss you, forever and always. We can’t control what happened and what happens now but we can control how we remember and honour you.
Ms Kumar said she is “truly touched“ by the generosity of donor to the GoFundMe page, which has raised almost $12,000 in the week it has been up.
“Times are tough right now for most so it’s incredible to see so many people digging deep to support others in time of need - everyone is truly truly grateful for everyone’s generous donations and support,“she said.
Funds raised will go towards funeral costs for Clint, and supporting his family in the aftermath of his death.
If you would like to contribute to the GoFundMe, head to gofundme.com/f/supportfor-clint-allens-family
On Saturday the 13th at approximately 7.40pm, Highway Patrol officers in an unmarked vehicle on Princes Freeway, Officer were overtaking by silver motorcycle that was allegedly detected at a speed of 175kph.
This alleged speed is 75kph over the 100kph speed limit.
The vehicle was intercepted in Narre Warren, where it was revealed the male rider was a learner.
The rider will receive charges for driving in a manner dangerous, careless driving and excessive speed.
The motorcycle was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1019.85.
Police are investigating a truck rollover which caused morning commute chaos on Monday
8 May
The incident occurred on Princes Freeway in Pakenham when a b-double truck lost control inbound near the Kooweerup Road turn off about 7:25am.
Authorities are investigating the collision which caused all lanes inbound along the Princes Freeway to be closed between Nar Nar Goon Road and Healesville-Kooweerup Road.
Traffic was understood to be backed up over a mile in the morning, while the inbound lanes were not open until 4.20pm that day. Police are seeking any witnesses or anyone with dash cam footage in the area prior to the collision.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Casey Highway Patrol on 5991 0600, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com. au.
The incident occurred on the morning of Monday 8 May. Picture: VICTRAFFIC
Police have arrested a man after allegedly riding 80km’s over the speed limit in Longwarry Friday 12 May.
Officers first saw the motorcycle riding along O’Brien Road in Catani, about 5.18pm.
They attempted to catch up to the motorcyclist as it is travelled at an alleged speed of
180km in a 100km zone, overtaking other vehicles.
Police lost sight of the motorcycle but located it a short time later in Oak Avenue, Longwarry.
The rider was arrested at the scene.
A 48-year-old Drouin man has been charged
with speed dangerous, driving whilst disqualified, failing an oral fluid test, affix false number plates and driving unregistered motorcycle.
He has been bailed to appear at the Latrobe Magistrates’ Court on 2 August.
The motorcycle was impounded at a cost of $895.
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing 110 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 68 already gone. We’re also building the Metro Tunnel to run more trains to and from our suburbs and upgrading roads to reduce congestion and improve travel times.
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Cranbourne and Pakenham lines
Pakenham Line
From 8pm 19 May to 21 May
Caulfield to Westall 9.30pm to last train, 25 May
From 9.30pm 25 May to 30 May
Dandenong to Pakenham
8 to 21 JuneOn sections of the line
Road disruptions: Closed roads
Ballarto Road, Pakenham South
Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne West
Hall Road, Cranbourne West
Evans Road, Cranbourne West
Main Street, McGregor and Racecourse roads, Pakenham
Until 8 June
BetweenHealesville-KooWeeRup and Cardinia roads
Until 26 JuneBetween Willow Glen and Ranfurlie boulevards
Until 26 June
Between CranbourneFrankston Road and Banyan Drive
Until 26 JuneBetween Hall Road and Strathlea Drive
At times in JuneAt the level crossings
The Federal Government may halt the progress of local road works as it conducts a 90-day review into the nation’s $120 billion infrastructure pipeline.
Clyde Road upgrade and the McGregor and Racecourse Road upgrades in Pakenham are among Victorian projects that may be stalled as no new contracts to progress works will be entered during the 90-day review with the direct permission of the Federal Government.
Works can only continue under their current contracts with continued renewal uncertain.
This announcement made by the Federal Government comes as the projects along Clyde, McGregor and Racecourse Road are close to the end of their current work packages.
Even though the majority of works across Victoria will be covered over the 90 days, these three local projects may have to stop work at a certain point over the course of the review.
This could potential effect existing time frames of the projects risking more strain for residents commuting through and around the area.
State Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Jacinta Allan said the Government was being open about the situation.
“While this national review is undertaken, we’re being upfront with our contractors, workforce, and the public, and following the direction from the Federal Government,“ she said.
“We’ll continue to advocate for Victoria to get its fair share of infrastructure funding from the Commonwealth, after being shortchanged by the former Liberal government for a decade.”
If the work sites in these projects are to be halted, the State Government will temporarily move the workers to other on-going projects across Victoria.
A new industrial precinct that may provide up to 3,500 jobs will be made in Pakenham South as the council gives the green light to the necessary infrastructure.
In their general meeting on Monday 15 May, Cardinia Shire Council approved an amendment to the Cardinia Planning Scheme to add the Pakenham South Employment Infrastructure Contributions Plan (ICP).
An ICP is the scheme to which the Council approves and funds the necessary infrastructure on behalf of a proposed development of a property.
The amended ICP will be sent to the State Minister for Planning where final approval of the council’s decision will be decided.
If approval is granted, 185 hectares of land will be developed for industry situated in the south of Pakenham.
Specifically, the area is sequestered within Greenhills Road for the northern border, McGregor Road to the west, Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road to the east and Green Wedge land for the south.
The land will extend the already existing industry of Pakenham south of the Princes Freeway, as the council motion says.
“The Pakenham South Employment Precinct forms part of the Pakenham/Officer State Significant Industrial Precincts,“ the motion said.
“The Precinct Structure Plan and ICP land is located directly south of the Industrial South East Business Park and south west of
the Livestock Exchange.“The ICP will work through a levy on the land’s development to be used by council to fund the necessary infrastructure, a sum estimated to cost $21.8m.”
The motion says the industrial development of the land hopes to provide approximately 3,500 job opportunities for the local area.
“A diverse mix of industrial, manufacturing, warehouses and commercial jobs within the precinct will enable residents living in Cardinia and its surrounds the opportunity to work closer to home and reduce commute times,“ the motion stated.
The motion was passed unanimously, being moved by Councillor Kaye Cameron and seconded by Councillor Graeme Moore.
The area of development outlined for the Pakenham South Employment Infrastructure Contributions Plan.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I love going on ghost tours. What do you love about the work you do with the Casey Cardinia Libraries?
Every day is different. I get to talk to new people all the time. I could go from connecting people to free resources within the library, showing someone how to scan a document, introducing a new family to our children’s programs or booking in a yoga class in the library.
What would your last meal be?
That’s a tough one. If it was favourite take away it would be a charcoal chicken and chips with gravy, or home cooked it would have to be my mum’s roast lamb.
What is your most memorable moment?
The moment I became a mum when my son was born.
What event, past or present, would you like to witness?
12th March 1921, watching Edith Cowan be elected as the first woman into an Australian Parliament.
Which three guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?
MarieLaveau,JanisJoplinandmyLittleNana.
What are you currently listening to, reading or watching?
Listening to Once for with Feeling the soundtrack (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), watching the current season of Ink Master and reading Free by Kristen Ashley. If you had to compete on MasterChef, what dish would you cook?
Does frog in a pond count?
Where is your dream holiday destination?
I would love to go to San Francisco one day.
What were you like as a kid?
Very independent, always wanted to do
World Turtle Day will celebrate turtles across the globe on Tuesday 23 May. Here are some of the things that make them special.
1 Australia is home to six out of the seven sea turtle species in the world. These include the green, hawksbill, leatherback, loggerhead, olive ridley, and the flatback turtle.
2
Whether sea turtles are born male or female is dependent on the temperature of their nest. Cooler temperatures during incubation produce male hatchlings, while warmer ones produce females.
everything myself and of course, I was always reading!
What was your first job?
Working in a sandwich shop making lunches for the local tradies.
What are the three most used apps on your phone?
Facebook, Instagram andYoutube.
What’s one question you have
always wanted answered? Why doesn’t the government see how valuable our public libraries are and increase our funding so we can continue to provide, improve and expand our services to our communities, especially those that are most vulnerable? More and more people are turning to their local library for help more than ever with the cost of living rising so dramatically.
3 Leatherback turtles have remained unchanged since they shared the land with dinosaurs! They are also one of the deepest diving mammals, reaching nearly 4000 feet deep.
By Emily Chapman Laing
Suicide Safer Communities is working to bring a world-first artificial intelligence suicide prevention program to Casey.
CEO of the Life! Central charity and HelpNet online counselling program Drew Gormlie says it’s important to get as far ahead of community suicide triggers as possible.
Suicide Safer Communities, as part of HelpNet, is designed to “fill in the gaps“ in community resources that leave residents at risk of suicide.
In Casey, mental health is a large area of concern for many organisations and constituents.
One in 5 Casey residents suffer from severe psychological distress.
Less than half (48 per cent) of Casey locals feel safe walking in their neighbourhood after dark.
There were also 5208 domestic violence incidents reported to police from September 2021 - September 2022.
Mr Gormlie and his team are looking forward to bringing their software to their home region of Casey.
However nothing is in motion yet.
“At the City of Casey, we are committed to supporting evidence-based approaches that increase resilience, safety, and connection within our communities, as outlined in our Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021-25,“ said City of Casey Manager Connected Communities, Sara Ball.
“Given the high rates of psychological distress experienced within our community, we monitor and welcome innovation in the mental health promotion and suicide prevention space, however we currently have no plans to use this specific technology.“
In developing their artificial intelligence software, the team wanted to have an understanding of communities before making rec-
ommendations for suicide prevention.
“You can’t mitigate against risk,“ Mr Gormlie said.
“You can’t stop health issues, economic issues, relationship issues, Covid, floods, fires, whatever it is.
“But you can create an environment where you’ve got resources so that when those negative things happen, you have what you need.“
The AI software runs many different versions and is designed for use by individuals, organisations, police, military and varying geographic regions.
The success of the software is evident in how the program improved the suicide rates of the Upper Murray community.
“They had a suicide rate that was ten times the national average,“ Mr Gormlie said.
“We delivered 144 recommendations to the Upper Murray Health Department, agencies and to the general public.
“Over the last 22 months, there hasn’t been another death.“
Mr Gormlie says the efficacy of the program comes in its ability to empower community
organisations and members to “feed change“ and “make things happen“ themselves.
Each community is different, and Mr Gormlie believes the AI software provides invaluable insight into the unique challenges facing a region.
Using the findings from surveys, the team is able to make recommendations for suicide prevention that are “more strategic“ and “informed“ than traditional approaches.
The AI software works by having members of a community fill out a 10 minute survey.
The questions are based on research findings from psychologists, which allow the program to identify whether there are issues around domestic violence, isolation, crime or lack of resources.
“The survey identifies areas that need to be strengthened so we can fill in the gaps,“ Mr Gormlie said.
The program has reached international success, being delivered in Fiji, Malaysia and the UK.
Mr Gormlie says the program has the potential to “alleviate pressure on the mental
health and clinical systems“ in Casey.
He emphasises how cost effective the AI software is in comparison to the expense of manpower it would take from psychologists to achieve the same result.
“We do the whole thing in six weeks for about 10% the price of psychologists,“ Mr Gormlie said.
“Once we know exactly what’s going on, we can make recommendations that are more strategic and save on resources in the community.
“Over a two to three year period, there’s the potential for the load on the mental health system to be be reduced by 10-20 per cent.“
Following some suicide prevention training over a decade ago, the team at Life Central realised how significant the issue was in the Casey area.
“A lot of young people were dying in Casey,“ Mr Gormlie said.
“So we started training as many people as we could, but it was too little too late.
Mr Gormlie says suicide is a symptom, not a cause.
He and Life Central’s Prevention Services Director Debra Croft decided to take action.
“We started talking about ways we could do things differently so we could address the problem more effectively,“ Mr Gormlie said.
Life! Central has been rewarded for their impressive work, receiving a Resilience Australia Award in 2022.
Suicide Safer Communities believes the responsibility for suicide prevention rests with individuals,organisations,professionalgroups and services across the community and that suicide prevention/intervention/post-vention should be provided in a coordinated, holistic and integrated way according to the needs of the individual and community.
The team is now looking at partnering with nationwide organisations to create real change across Australia.
Casey and Cardinia Shire councils have endorsed a strategic plan to conserve the worldsignificant but under-threatWestern Port Bay.
They have called on other levels of government to be involved in the protection of the ecologically vital marine life and wetlands.
The strategic framework was created by the Victorian National Parks Association’s campaign called ‘Act for Western Port Bay’.
The document tells of Western Port acquiring some of the worst environmental health indicators across Victoria, with declining populations of certain marine life and bird species.
It had suffered “substantial change” due to “extensive clearing” of its catchment and coastal vegetation, draining of swamplands
and urban, agricultural and industrial development.
The water quality in five out of the nine estuaries flowing into Western Port are rated as very poor by the Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability.
The bay was home to endangered species such as the Growling Grass Frog and the Southern Brown Bandicoot.
Casey chair administrator Noelene Duff is a member of the Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation committee which put forward the plan.
“Western Port is a unique place on the world stage,“ she told a 16 May council meeting.
“It’s the only wetland in Victoria that has been recognised by both the UN as a biosphere reserve and also as an international
RAMSAR wetland for conservation.”
The bay lacked a “cohesive and coordinated approach to way it’s being planned and managed”.
According to the document, Western Port has been subjected to inconsistent planning decisions, inadequate monitoring, poor accountability and governance.
Administrator Miguel Belmar said a “new whole-bay approach” was needed.
It required a new strategic plan, a new collaborative management partnership and a dedicated fund.
“It’s important that … Western Port is not a second-order issue but a primary issue in terms of protecting its biodiversity and its assets.”
The plan’s objectives included the need for all future industrial proposals being as-
sessed in an “open and transparent” process, Mr Belmar noted.
Administrator Cameron Boardman said the initiative was “community led”, noting the collective of groups based in towns around the bay as well as larger environmental groups such as Save Western Port.
He said there were planning implications for bayside towns due to coastal and tidal erosion issues.
On 15 May, Cardinia Shire Council also endorsed the plan.
It calls on the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action to establish a collaboration with Traditional Owners and relevant stakeholders such as Melbourne Water.
Casey occupies 35 kilometres of the Western Port coast.
A new magazine is bringing a new ‘voice’ for women’s stories and issues in the South East.
As part of the Empowering Communities grants from the Department of Justice and Community Safety Victoria, Wellsprings for Women worked vigorously to deliver the ‘Be the Voice’ magazine to the community, a project funded by the City of Casey.
The informative resource features stories on sexual assault, early and forced marriages and coercive control, supported by statistics.
Hannah Wright, co-design facilitator of the project, said creating a safe environment for important conversations and stories to “reveal themselves” is vital.
“The main things I’ve loved about the process, which is something I believe in strongly, is connecting as a group when doing the work and allowing space for stated stories.”
So, when the graphic designer suggested a magazine format, something the organisation hasn’t used in its previous projects, they became excited.
“When everyone heard that, they said that’s most perfect because we should give everyone their own voice and that’s how it came to be called, ‘Be the Voice.’
“It’s important to acknowledge this issue is
not just a migrant refugee issue. It’s an issue all over Australia,” Ms Wright said.
The magazine is largely derived from the stories of 10 women from diverse backgrounds including, Afghan and Indian.
Alia (Marzia), Araig, Fahima, Fereshtah, Lina, Mehak, Nadia, Nasira, Priyanka and Qamaria are the 10 women who met for two hours for 10 week which consisted of generating conversations, sharing stories and much more.
The 300 copies of the magazine will be distributed all over in the community, at local agencies and at Wellsprings’ meetings and networking events while digital versions will be available for widespread use.
Chief executive officer, Dalal Smiley said with enough funding and a real demand for more hard copies, they’ll look to print more copies.
NarreWarren South MP Gary Maas said he’s
proud to be part of a government that supports these programs in the community.
“Once upon a time we didn’t talk about it. Now the solutions are emanating from grassroots level and permeating through the community.
“It wasn’t that long ago that there used to be this top-down approach to put solutions through. We now know from experience that approach doesn’t work.
“We want to partner not only with local government but with the entire grassroots organisation to ensure these works continue.”
Wellsprings announced the round two funding they’ve received to take this project even further working closely with the 10 women.
Gender equality practitioner, Aviva White said they’ll hold onto the pillar of co-design for the next project and build on the skills and knowledge of the women.
“They’ll deliver supported community safety sessions on sexual assault, early and forced marriages and coercive control to their own community members.
“We might choose them to do it online or in their language. The way they’ll be delivered will be up to the women.”
Round two is a one year project kick-starting from July this year.
The legacy and significance of one’s life is a delicate gift.
No one is more aware of this fact than Palliative Care South East companion volunteer Pam Glover, who has been instrumental in the organisation’s Sharing My Story biography program.
Ahead of National Volunteer Week (Monday 15 May to Sunday 21 May), PCSE is celebrating the value of its 50 volunteers, helping those receiving end-of-life support.
The former school teacher started volunteering in 2014 and helped launch the Sharing My Story program in 2016, which involves three or four volunteers visiting PCSE clients and allowing them to talk about their lives.
The team have a portable scanner on hand and collate the story into a full-size book.
Ms Glover said while clients often approached the program with an amount of reservation about how interesting their life story is, they were always impressed with how much they have achieved.
“They get a lot of validation,“ she said.
“They don’t want to be forgotten.
“It’s a wonderful process to go through.“
before their death. 334687
Ms Glover said she had completed more than 75 biographies since starting the program.
“I feel very humbled,“ she said.
“It is a privilege.
“I learn something every time.“
Ms Glover said each client has an “amazing experience“ to share.
“I feel quite honoured to be part of their lives,“ she said.
“I would encourage anyone who has got the time to volunteer in some way.“
Another PCSE volunteer who has dedicated a number of years to supporting those in palliative care with a life-limiting illness is Hampton Park’s Gwen Clough.
Twice widowed, the 84-year-old has a deep understanding of the grief others feel when they are losing a loved one to a terminal disease.
As a volunteer companion, Ms Clough takes clients shopping, to medical appointments, for walks or coffee and has held the hands of grieving widows and sat at the bedsides of the elderly as they share their anger and fears.
Berwick’s Josie Mastroianni is also a volunteer companion to Casey residents with a life-limiting or terminal illness.
For the past seven years, she has provided companionship to vulnerable clients who are lonely or isolated, visiting clients weekly and providing them with the opportunity to go for a coffee, get help with their shopping or taking some time out to talk.
Ms Mastroianni’s Italian heritage and bi-
lingual skills enable her to support a number of elderly clients who originally immigrated from Italy in the post-War years.
PCSE community liaison officer Rochelle Dullard said PCSE’s volunteers are “kind, compassionate and supportive“ to clients in their time of need.
“These people are willing to support others at the end of life,“ she said.
“I feel very fortunate to be able to be a part of a program with such volunteers.“
Ms Dullard said another aspect to be celebrated is how well the volunteers adapted to the Covid pandemic and providing support with restricted personal contact.
“The greatest success story is our volunteer’s willingness to adapt and how quickly they adapted,“ she said.
“They went above and beyond to teach themselves how to do things so they could continue providing emotional support for clients.
“It is an incredible testament to their commitment and shows how invested they are in figuring out what they can do to help.“
For more information on how to volunteer with PCSE, visit palliativecaresoutheast.org. au/how-you-can-help/volunteer.
Thumbs down
To all the road works at the moment, can’t leave this town without coming across one or five.
Thumbs up
To all the emergency workers.
Thank you for your dedication.
Thumbs down
To potholes all over Melbourne. Fix our roads Mr. Dan the Crazy Old Man.
Thumbs down
To the new Thompson’s Road intersection. I was stuck sitting there for 20 minutes the lights take so long, what a ridiculous waste of money.
Thumbs up
To everyone who posts photos of lost animals online to help them get home safely.
Thumbs up
To David Nutting for the outstanding community work he does each week.
Thumbs up
To all the mums with special needs kids.
Thumbs up
To the amazing support for the Petite Pantry.
Thumbs up
To everyone who puts the effort in to recycle properly.
Thumbs up
For the lady at Parkhill Junction
Coles who paid for my items when I left my purse at home, it was the first time I had done it and I was so embarrassed. It’s people like her who make the world go around.
Come to celebrate International Day for Biodiversity at Myuna Farm!
The event will involve an opportunity to meet some of the native animals and plants that live here, learn what biodiversity is and why it is important in our daily lives.
Take a train ride down to our wetlands to meet the awesome Flying Foxes and watch them fly out at sunset.
Listen to frog calls and learn what frogs live at the Myuna Farm wetlands.
Examine water bugs and learn how they can indicate the health of waterways.
Bookings essential, $2 gold coin donation to be paid on the day.
Register interest at myunafarm@casey.vic.gov.
au · Myuna Farm,182 Kidds Rd,Doveton,Wednesday 24 May, 4:30pm - 6:30pm.
Children’s Sweets and Treats
Cooking Workshop
A fun hands-on cooking program for children 8-12 years old to teach them food handling, knife skills, food prep and basic health & safety in the kitchen.
Recipes will include mini muffins, slices, chocolate rainbow squares and snickerdoodles to take home to share.
These workshops will teach your child valuable life skills and will be facilitated by our popular, local chef extraordinaire.
This workshop will run Saturday mornings for 2 weeks commencing 27th May.
· Balla Balla Community Centre, Unit 7/9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Saturday 27 May, 10am - 12pm.
Volunteer Expo
Discover great volunteering opportunities in the City of Casey at the Casey Volunteer Expo!
Volunteering is a great way for people to gain experience and skills, all while making a difference in someone’s life.
Meet with organisations, learn about what they do and how they support Casey residents, watch the performances and grab a bite to eat.
Lots of great activities on the day including cultural dancing and food.
· Bunjil Place Function Centre, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren on Thursday 25 May, 10am - 3pm.
Biggest Morning Tea
Join Cranbourne Fitness 24/7 for their Biggest Morning Tea and help raise much needed funds
for the Cancel Council.
They are running a special group fitness class at 9.30am, where members will support with a donation and the gym will be donating 100% of any proceeds from casual visits for the day.
After the class, attendees will head down to Funtopia as a group, for a morning tea.
Funtopia has also agreed to make a donation to the Cancer Council for any coffees purchased on the morning.
· Shop 18, 350-398 South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne on Thursday 25 May at 10:30am.
Oliver Racing Open Day
Luke Oliver Racing are looking forward to hosting their annual open day at their Cranbourne stables.
All owners and racing enthusiasts are welcome to attend. Lunch, drinks and refreshments will be provided.
Oliver’s quality 2023 lineup of yearlings will be on parade for a closer look giving you full insight into what they have in store for their futures.
Come and spend time with the horses, meet & greet with staff, have a tour of their world class facilities & enjoy all things Oliver Racing has to offer!
· Cranbourne Training Complex, Grant Street, Cranbourne on Sunday 21 May 2023, 10:30am.
The Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne are hosting a forest therapy session to get you back in touch with nature.
Originating from Japan, shinrin-yoku, or forest therapy, is a preventative health practice that immerses your senses in nature. This guided wellbeing experience will bolster your mental and physical health by reducing stress levels, regulating pulse and blood pressure and elevating your mood.
Recognised as a public health practice in Asia and Europe, forest therapy is gaining global acclaim as an evidence-based, costeffective and natural remedy – a ‘green prescription’ for a healthier you. Surround yourself with biodiversity from across the globe at Melbourne Gardens. Tickets are $30 per person.
· Cnr Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, Cranbourne on Sunday 28 May, 10.30am - 12.30pm.
The Casey BMX Club are making Saturday 27 May a really special day to celebrate girls of all ages with This Girl Can.
They are calling all the girls, ladies and women to come forward and have a go on a BMX race bike.
This isn’t just for the kids! Mums, aunts, big cousins and even nans are welcome.
Pro riders Bella May and Coby Stagg will run a coaching session after the Come & Try sessions are done.
· Casey Fields, 160 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East on Saturday 27 May, 1pm.
Basic Cakes Workshop
Learn to make sponge cakes including sponge rolls, butter cakes including chocolate variations as well as cakes with fruit fillings and decorations to take home.
Cakes made from scratch always taste better and will certainly impress your family and friends!
This workshop will run Wednesday evenings for 3 weeks.
· Balla Balla Community Centre, Unit 7/9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Wednesday 7 June, 6:30pm.
Join the Amstel Club in their 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.
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: www.u3acranbourne.org.au or call Helen 0423 623 337.
Know Your Local
Get ready to explore the stunning murals in your community and support local businesses with the City of Casey’s new campaign.
Over three Saturdays in May and June, the Know Your Local campaign will bring a festive vibe to your local shopping and entertainment hubs.
From gorgeous murals to an hour of live music by a talented busker and food discounts, there’s something for everyone.
The campaign is a great opportunity to connect with your community and discover hidden gems in the area.
Participating businesses will also offer halfprice items, making it the perfect time to shop local and support the local economy.
· 4pm and 6pm on 6 May at Linden Place in Doveton,20 May at Narre Village in Narre Warren, and 3 June at Autumn Place in Doveton.
Narre Warren District Family History Group General Meeting
Join Carol Rosenhain, author of the military biography ‘The Men Behind the Myth, The Fighting Leanes of Prospect’ at L’Arte Central Social Enterprise.
2/65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East, Saturday 20 May, 12pm.
· Bookings are essential. To book, email Eileen Durdin at secretary@nwfhg.org.au.
South-east Melbourne locals are encouraged to spruik local stories from their hometowns as part of an upcoming virtual tour-based podcast.
Metro Trains is partnering with travel podcast and geo-mapping platform Storytowns PodcastTours and the Department ofTransport and Planning to deliver the tour experience. Podcasts will play automatically as you approach a town, landmark or point of interest.
The series of podcasts will cover a variety of themes, including local food, culture, street
art, travel tips, fun facts, and interesting stories about each suburb’s history, culture and train stations.
One of the series will focus on stations and suburbs along the Pakenham line, including Pakenham, Berwick, Narre Warren, Dandenong, Sandown Park and Springvale, with additional podcasts coming on the Belgrave, Lilydale, Upfield, Williamstown and Sandringham lines.
South-east Melbourne locals can contribute to the series by Thursday 1 June.
After hitchhiking around the world, Storytowns founder Jarrod Pickford wanted to connect travellers to communities, launching the project in regional Victoria, with hundreds of free geo-located podcasts now available throughout Australia.
“We believe that every suburb has a story to tell, and we’re excited to bring Melbourne’s unique character and history to life through the voices of its people.“
Metro Trains chief executive Raymond O’Flaherty said the podcast series will be a
“new and unique“ way to enjoy Melbourne’s inner and outer suburbs.
“This will provide our passengers with a new and unique way to experience Melbourne,“ he said.
“These podcasts will enhance the journey and provide passengers with fascinating insights into the places they travel through.“
The Storytowns app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices. the podcast series, visit www.storytowns.app.
has called out the Minister of Police over the Clyde North police station promised in the 2018 state election.
“One of the issues through the area is the Clyde North police station, which was committed to be open and operating by the 2018 election and then was recommitted again to be done and open by the 2022 election,” Mr Battin said.
“Now the only thing that has been done for that police station is there is a sign saying that it will be ready by 2025.
“I know that all the members that represent that area have seen growth in such numbers that most infrastructure will not keep up with it, but I think the infrastructure around ensuring we have safety should and must be put in as a priority.”
Mr Battin told State Parliament of alarming rates of car thefts and break-ins in the area, leaving residents “fearful”.
According to the Crime Statistics Agency, overall crime in Clyde North increased by 26.35 per cent from 2022 to 2023, jumping from 1146 during 2022 to 1448 recorded offences in 2023. Particular increases included property damage (36 per cent), theft (22.6 per cent) and assault (19.4 per cent).
While overall crime in Clyde North during 2023 fell by 3.9 per cent compared to 2022 figures, property damage increased by 14.8 per cent and theft saw a 12.1 per cent rise.
“The community is starting to come together and talk about this,” Mr Battin said.
“It is not just online; they have been approaching our office now and also their local media about, when they call police, the callout times, how long it takes Victoria Police to arrive, and some of the issues with people hanging around in the street.”
Mr Battin says with roadworks delaying
response times from Cranbourne and Narre Warren police, it is crucial the ball gets rolling on increasing Clyde North’s police presence.
“We have been calling on the government to build the station for a long period of time,” Mr Battin said.
“If we had the station, we could start putting Victoria Police in there, and I think then you would actually start to see people would feel safer.”
The Victorian Government has settled on the land for the station and saysVictoria Police are working on the“scope and design” of Clyde North’s new station.
The introduction of the 24-hour Police Assistance Line (PAL) in 2017 was designed to take the pressure away from Triple Zero in non-emergency situations.
The goal was to free up the line for lifethreatening situations, ensuring police response times were as efficient as possible.
Despite this, Mr Battin says the numbers simply aren’t there in the local police forces.
A Victorian government spokesperson says the Clyde area is“well serviced” by existing police resources in the region.
“We promised we’d deliver a state-of-theart police station in Clyde North and that’s
what we will do,” they said.
“The Victorian Budget 2022-23 is delivering an additional 502 police and 50 Protective Service Officers (PSOs) over the next two years to meet the growing needs of the state, bringing more than 3,600 new police officers to our streets.
“As a part of this commitment, the Dandenong Division, which includes the Clyde North area has received an additional 225 sworn police since 2016.”
The new station will be located on the corner of Newgrange Boulevard and Matterhorn Drive.
City of Casey residents enjoyed an extraordinary day of ’Bukjeh’ Gathering at Bunjil Place for the first time thanks to the Bukjeh organisation.
Families were able to enjoy the event from 11 am to 4 pm on Saturday 13 May.
Founder and chief executive officer, Aseel Tayah was very thankful and joyous at the success of the event.
“The event was a great success. I could tell from people’s smiles, excitement and them staying till the very end of the event.
“People loved the fact that there was so much going on, they loved that there was something for everyone (kids and adults) and they loved to celebrate with each other.“
The event saw a great attraction from community groups such as the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson and federal opposition spokesperson for community safety, migration services and multicultural affairs Jason Wood.
“I was amazed by the collaboration of different mosques, community centres, schools and organisations,“ Ms Tayah said.
Bunjil Place struggled to close its doors as people lingered around, chatting, making conversations and sharing their appreciation for the event.
Ms Tayah said Bukjeh can’t wait for their next big Eid event.
Ms Wilson also gladly accepted the invitation to experience Bukjeh and said her favourite part was the food, multicultural experience and interacting with “so many people doing amazing work to promote multiculturalism across Victoria.“
“The event was absolutely incredible, with plenty of performances, singing and dancing –it was a great show of rich culture, family and connection in our community, and it was an
honour to be invited.
“The work Bukjeh does is very important, and I support their mission to promote inter-
cultural connection in the community. I look forward to working with them to best support their vision.“
By Matthew Sims
From plastic-free lunches to a new ’eco cubby’, Strathaird Primary School in Narre Warren South has always had a focus on sustainability since its inception in 2005.
The school has been named as a finalist in Sustainability Victoria’s 2023 ResourceSmart Schools Awards in the Curriculum Leadership Primary School of the Year award.
Foundation to Grade 6 pupils complete environmental sustainability as a specialist subject while incorporating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) areas.
Last year, the school community came together to design and launch the construction of a purpose-built ‘eco cabin’ and ‘eco cubby’ as hubs for sustainability education and ongoing efforts.
Built with recycled materials and equipped with a kitchen to extend the schools kitchen garden program, the buildings would also be used to teach sustainability.
Environmental sustainability teacher Renee Van Styn said the school community was “really excited“ to learn they were a finalist in the awards.
“If you teach kids to love nature, then they’re going to be more respectful of nature,“ she said.
“We’re really seeing it reflected in the classroom.
“The community is starting to catch up.“
Ms Van Styn said the school nominated a ’Green Team’ consisting of 12 Grade 5 pupils, with duties including monitoring the school’s waste and recycling, brainstorming new environmental projects and helping to maintain the school’s vegetable garden
“They’re so passionate about it,“ she said.
“It really is part of our school culture.“
Ms Van Styn said the school has been en-
gaging a designer for the ’eco cubby’ project, with plans to launch the project by the end of the year to drive an ongoing focus on sustainability lessons, initiatives and programs.
“We try and do things that are fun and connect with nature,“ she said.
“They gain that love of nature.“
Other planned initiatives at the school include an ’eco trail’ including signage about different sustainability tips around the school grounds and an upcoming focus
on ocean health.
Sustainability Victoria joint regions and community action director Katie Pahlow said the awards would celebrate young people and schools leading the way on sustainability, creating real impact for Victorian communities beyond the school gate.
“It’s important to remember that no action is too small and together we can achieve great things for our environment and generations to come,“ she said.
ResourceSmart Schools is a free State Government program delivering sustainability education to help Victorian schools minimise waste, save energy and water, promote biodiversty and act on climate change.
This year’s winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at the MCG on Thursday 15 June.
To view this year’s finalists, visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/resourcesmart-schoolsawards.
Principals have been named for two new schools being delivered in Clyde North and Officer.
Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins highlighted the Labor Government’s nation-leading new school construction program and announced Sharon Mitchell as Principal of Officer Brunt Road Primary School (interim name), with Marc de Ley announced as Principal of nearby Clyde North Alexander Boulevard Primary School (interim name).
Local Member for Pakenham Emma Vulin visited Officer Brunt Road Primary School on Thursday along with upper house MPs Michael Galea and LeeTarlamis.
Together with new principals Sharon Mitchell and Marc de Ley they toured the new school buildings under construction.
Marc de Ley has been an educator in government schools for more than 20 years and is eager to work with the local community, ensuring a thriving school that delivers for the young people and families in the Clyde North area.
Beginning her career in primary schools across South Gippsland, Sharon Mitchell is excited to collaborate with the school community to create a safe and inclusive learning environment where all children can learn and achieve.
Officer Smiles is a modern dental clinic situated in Officer, which fully embraces the advancements of contemporary dentistry.
Our clinic incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as 3D scans, digital smile designs, and clear braces, while implementing the latest techniques in cosmetic and orthodontic dental treatments.
Considerable thought and effort have gone into the creation of this state-of-the-art facility. Even the design of the practice has been meticulously planned to ensure a comfortable environment, allowing you to leave behind any preconceived notions you may have about dental visits.
While maintaining hygiene and providing education are fundamental to optimal oral health, our clinic goes beyond that. Our dentists possess a profound understanding of the interplay between dental, skeletal, and facial structures.
We meticulously assess and treat each patient, striving to achieve both long-term functionality and aesthetic excellence. Our team is dedicated to delivering high-quality dental work and also specialises in early orthopaedic and orthodontic treatments for children and families.
Located in a convenient area, our clinic provides easy parking, flexible appointment times, and the option to book appointments over the phone or online. Our welcoming staff is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to greet you as a new patient.
One in five men across Australia will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, prompting one local volunteer group to give back and ensure these men don’t go through a diagnosis alone.
The South Eastern Prostate Cancer Support Group aims to provide a supportive environment for men to connect with others going through a similar journey and share their experiences to improve health and wellbeing.
The group, supported by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, meets monthly at Dandenong RSL on the thirdWednesday of each month.
Support group spokesperson, Steve Cox, encouraged men and their partners impacted by prostate cancer to reach out for support.
“We know some men can have a hard time reaching out for help when times get tough. That’s why we’re here, to make sure that no man in our region feels like they have to walk this journey alone.”
Mr Cox says having support is a simple
“Our members are fathers, sons, brothers, grandfathers, and uncles and all have a story to share. We enjoy getting out and about to start the conversation about prostate cancer and let locals know the importance of getting checked by their doctors.”
PCFA chief executive officer, Anne Savage, said the network of support groups across the country play a vital role in the fight against prostate cancer.
Ms Savage says a diagnosis of prostate cancer can be isolating and overwhelming for both men and their loved ones.
“When the burden is heavy and the conversations are tough, support groups are there to lighten the load and shine the light of hope,” she said.
“As the national peak body for prostate cancer research, awareness and support, we are proud to stand alongside them.”
To find out more about the Prostate Cancer Support Group, call 1800 22 00 99 or visit pcfa.org.au/support/find-a-support-group.
A 59-year-old father of two has been handed a suspended jail sentence over the sexual abuse of a girl in Narre Warren South 23 years ago.
The man, who is not named so to not identify the victim, had been minding his neighbours’ daughter aged between 7 and 9 at his home at the time. He was found guilty by aVictorian County Court jury of four indecent acts with a child under 16, and not guilty of three other charges.
The four acts happened during a ‘Truth or Dare’ game initiated by the man, who is 30 years older than his victim. His family and the neighbours were close friends at the time, with children of similar ages. The man was in a “position of trust” minding his friends’ daughter in a place they thought was “safe”, sentencing judge Carolene Gwynn noted on 9 May.
The girl reported the incident to her parents, who chose not to pursue the matter. As an adult, she laid a complaint to police in 2016.
In a victim impact statement, the girl said her self-esteem was still affected by the abuse.
She grew up with feelings of isolation, guilt and shame. For years, she had trouble trusting male authority figures, her relationship with her parents was impacted and she had selfharmed. Now she has constant concerns for her own children’s safety.
“I will never be able to recover who I was and could have been.
“It happened at such a vulnerable age. I grieve the lost innocence every day.”
The man, who pleaded not guilty, maintained he was innocent. Judge Gwynn said the victim’s statement was a “stark reminder”
that the impact of child sexual abuse endures a long time after the event.
“There is a harsh reality in that the offenders move on with their lives while the victims of sexual offending simply do not.”
She said the sentence would be less severe due to the “extraordinary” and “unprecedented” delay of six aborted trials since the man was charged in 2017.
Three of the trials were abandoned due to the Covid pandemic. Twice, the jury was discharged and another abandoned due to a prosecutor falling ill. All were reasons out of the man’s control that added additional stress on him, the victim and the victim’s family, the judge noted. She denounced his offending as “serious” and “abhorrent”, his moral culpability as high, but noted the offending was without“aggravating” features such as penetration.
The Noble Park-raised man had no relevant criminal history before or since, and his rehabilitation prospects were “excellent, if not achieved”.
“I find you do not pose a risk to the community.”
If jailed, the accused was at an elevated risk of severely worsened mental health, Judge Gwynn found. She noted his complete lack of familiarity with prison, being separated from his wife of 38 years, his depression and suicide attempt since charged, as well as immobility due to a degenerative spinal condition.
In what was an “extremely difficult” sentencing exercise, the man’s 31-month jail sentence was fully suspended for three years.
He must report as a registered sexual offender for eight years.
The City of Casey will see new ways to recycle rolling out across the municipality over the next four years.
New purple-lidded glass recycling bins are being introduced in local government areas across the state.
By separating glass, Victoria will be able to recycle more glass into new products and re-use more materials from the yellow mixed recycling bin due to reduced contamination from glass.
City of Casey Manager Sustainability and Waste, Michael Jansen says Casey will see the introduction of these new bins in 2027.
“As part of the rollout of the State Government Kerbside Reforms, we have started the standardisation of kerbside bins for all new and replacement bin requests across Casey,“ he said.
“We already provide a food and garden organic service and will implement a separate glass collection by 2027.
“Casey welcomes the state-wide rollout of the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) later this year, and will analyse the impact of the CDS to best design the details of the future glass service.“
The glass bin will work alongside Victoria’s new container deposit scheme, CDS Vic, which commences on November 1 2023 – making it easier for Victorians to recycle their glass whether they are at home or out in the community.
The Labor Government has invested $129 million to buy new bins, improve drop-off facilities, deliver education campaigns and ensure they have the infrastructure in place to roll out these reforms.
The four-stream recycling system is a key part of the Labor Government’s waste and recycling reforms, aiming to divert 80 per cent of all material away from landfill by
2030, including 20,000 tonnes of glass.
The government says these reforms will create nearly 4,000 new jobs for Victorians and boost the state’s economy by up to $6.7 billion by 2030.
The initiative is backed by the Government’s $515 million investment to deliver the biggest ever transformation of the waste and recycling sector in the state’s history.
Acting Minister for Environment Lily D’Ambrosio says the program will make recycling easier for Australians.
“The four-stream recycling system will work alongside our new Container Deposit Scheme to make it easier than ever for Victorians to recycle their glass, so that it can be turned into new products,” she said.
“Our new household recycling services will maximise our recycling capacity, create new jobs and divert 80 per cent of waste from landfill by 2030, while helping to reduce emissions by 50 per cent”
A drug-trafficking dad who claimed his DNA had innocently “seeped” into a safe full of ‘ice’ has been found guilty by a Victorian County Court jury.
Glenn Mazzacca, 42, of Carrum Downs, had pleaded not guilty to trafficking a commercial quantity of ‘ice’.
His initial defence was that he didn’t have the keys to the safe found in his car.
He also claimed he had no knowledge of the drugs and that his DNA was deposited through a “vapour-like penetration” of the air-tight and water-tight safe.
In sentencing on 12 May, Judge Marcus Dempsey labelled Mazzacca’s ‘seeped DNA’ theory as “absurd”.
The accused had consumed an “astonishing” amount of court resources in pushing the claim before switching lawyers, Judge Dempsey said.
His new defence team conceded he was in possession of the ice, but argued Mazzacca didn’t know or intend to traffick a commercial quantity of the drug.
He pleaded guilty to trafficking 1000 grams of 1,4-butanediol, dealing with $5880 of proceeds, possessing ice, unlicenced driving, drug driving and speeding.
A meth-affected, unlicensed Mazzacca was pulled over by police while driving in Carrum Downs in the mid-afternoon on 4 February 2021.
As he stepped out of the car and put his hands up, two bags of ‘ice’ fell on the road.
He was also found carrying $5880 cash.
Mazzacca called his girlfriend, who arrived on the scene.
He “shamefully” tried to offload a large drug bag down the back of her trackpants –which could have unfairly implicated her,
Judge Dempsey noted.
In his car was the lock-safe containing nearly 180 grams of ‘ice’ – three-and-a-half times the commercial trafficking threshold.
Police also found a container of GHB and drug paraphernalia such as empty syringes, ice pipes and scales.
In his bedroom, police opened a safe containing a bottle of GHB and “assorted tablets”.
Judge Dempsey noted Mazzacca grew up in a household marred with “rampant” and “normalised” substance abuse.
His mother kicked him out of home to “shock” him straight but he continued to use and traffick drugs.
The lack of pro-social supports explained the “many poor decisions” he’d made, Judge Dempsey noted.
His “unenviable” criminal history included armed robbery, court order breaches and two convictions for trafficking ice.
A “spectacularly bad” driving record comprised 14 convictions for disqualified and unlicenced driving and four drug driving offences.
“You are difficult to deter,” the judge stated to Mazzacca.
However, since his arrest, Mazzacca had done well during a four-month stint in residential rehab, got a job and not re-offended.
There was both “caution and optimism” for Mazzacca’s potential reform.
Mazzacca was jailed for up to four years and 10 months, including 262 days in presentence detention.
He will be eligible for parole after serving three years and two months.
From the day of his release, he will be disqualified from driving for two years.
The state government has confirmed plans were taking shape on the construction of a new emergency department expansion at Casey Hospital, as response times continue to lag in key categories.
The 2022-23 Victorian State Budget included a commitment for Casey Hospital to receive a share of $236 million in funding to double the capacity of its emergency department, as part of a $2.3 billion investment to upgrade existing and build new hospitals across the state.
Casey Hospital’s emergency department expansion would include a dedicated paediatric space for children and their families, and support an additional 52,000 presentations annually, helping ease the pressure on the existing emergency departments for the hospitals’ dedicated doctors, nurses, orderlies and other hospital staff.
A Department of Health spokesperson said planning works were progressing on the new emergency department.
“The expanded emergency department will respond to the growing number of adult and paediatric presentations in the community,“ the spokesperson said.
“Construction is expected to commence in 2024 and is on track for opening in 2026, and we’re working closely with Monash Health to ensure any impact to services is minimised during the redevelopment.“
According toVictorian Agency for Health Information data, Casey Hospital treated 78.35 per cent of emergency patients within the recommended time during the January to March 2023 period, which represented a step up from 37.64 per cent in April-June 2022.
In category two emergency cases requiring treatment within 10 minutes, Casey Hospital treated 48.94 per cent of patients
Casey Hospital is set to receive a multimillion dollar boost. 153243
within the recommended time during January-March 2023.
While Casey Hospital treated 83.46 per cent of category three emergency cases within the recommended time of 30 minutes, this figure represented a lag behind others hospitals such as Dandenong Hospital (92.6 per cent) and Angliss Hospital (86.22 per cent).
During the Legislative Assembly meeting on Wednesday 3 May, Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson requested an update on the works.
“Inthe2022–23budgetitwasannounced that the Andrews Labor government will redevelop and expand the emergency department at Casey Hospital,“ she said.
“This follows from a major expansion of the hospital that was completed in 2020 to meet the soaring demand for health care in the outer south-east.
“I know people in my electorate are excited to see these upgrades delivered, and alongside the major redevelopment of Dandenong Hospital it will provide world-class health care for residents in Narre Warren North.“
• Officer - High Horse Cafe Cotswold Crescent
• Officer - 7-11 Service Station Officer Princes Highway
• Officer - Officer Bakehouse Princes Highway
• Officer - Chelles Soul Food Princes Highway
• Officer - Officer Post Office Princes Highway
• Officer - Arena Cafe - Arena Shopping Centre Princes Highway
• Officer - Arena Shopping Centre Princes Highway
• Officer - Cardinia Shire Council Office Rix Road
• Officer - Chathlys Kitchen Siding Avenue
• Pakenham -Pakenham Heights Cafe & Milk Bar Ahern Road
• Pakenham - Pakenham Produce & Saddlery Bormar Drive
• Pakenham - Deep Creek Reserve Cafe Cameron Way
• Pakenham - Foodworks Henry Road
• Pakenham - Pakenham Health Centre Henty Way
• Pakenham - Stellas Cafe and Takeaway Hogan Court
• Pakenham - Pakenham Central Marketplace John Street
• Pakenham - Four Seasons Cafe John Street (Pakenham Central Marketplace)
• Pakenham - The Coffee Club John Street (Pakenham Central Marketplace)
• Pakenham - Punjab Street Chaat Corner John Street
• Pakenham - Pakenham Library Cnr John Street & Henry Street
• Pakenham - Gloria Jeans Koo Wee Rup Road
• Pakenham - Frankies Cafe Lakeside Boulevard (Village Lakeside SC)
• Pakenham - Cardinia Cultural Centre Lakeside Boulevard Cnr Waterford Rise
• Pakenham - Pakenham Hills General Store Leigh Drive
• Pakenham - Homestead Cafe @ The Heritage Livingstone Boulevard (Heritage SC)
• Pakenham - The Heritage Shopping Centre Livingstone Boulevard
• Pakenham - Pakenham Place Shopping Centre Main Street
• Pakenham - NewsXpress - Pakenham Main Street
• Pakenham - Vanille Bistro Main Street
• Pakenham - Bakery 127 Main Street
• Pakenham - Twisted Sista Cafe & Gelateria Main Street
• Pakenham - Kebabs Pakenham Main Street
• Pakenham - The Great Australian Bakehouse Main Street
• Pakenham - Robert Gordon Pottery & Kitchen Mulcahy Road
• Pakenham - Pakenham YMCA Olympic Way
• Pakenham - Spill the Beanz Coffee Shop Princes Highway
• Pakenham - Chipmunks Playland & Cafe Princes Highway
• Pakenham - Mega Discount Party Shop Princes Highway
• Pakenham - Wild Bean Cafe (BP Service Station) Princes Highway
• Pakenham - Mercure Hotel Racecourse Road
• Pakenham - Racecourse Road Milk Bar Racecourse Road
• Pakenham - Cardinia Club Racecourse Road
• Pakenham - Lollipops Playland & Cafe Southeast Blvd
• Pakenham - The Cornerstone Station Street
• Pakenham - Village Way Cafe Lakeside Square Shopping Centre
• Pakenham - Lakeside Square Shopping Centre Village Way
• Pakenham - Urban Hype Cafe Cardinia Lakes SC
• Pakenham - Cardinia Lakes Shopping Centre Windermere Boulevard
State Emergency Service donned orange in its national day of thanks for its volunteers across the country.
Wednesday 17 May was Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW), which is held annually during National Volunteer Week.
The past three years have been three of the busiest in VICSES’ history, following three consecutive La Nina seasons impacting severe storms and major flooding in the state.
October 2022, saw VICSES volunteers respond to 13,700 Requests for Assistance, in a single month as major flooding impacted the state.
This was VICSES’ busiest calendar month on record.
During the 89 days of the Victorian Flood Campaign, SES volunteers responded to just on 20,000 Requests for Assistance.
This included SES volunteers responding to over 1,500 flood rescues.
A major and prolonged emergency event, with some of the worst floods in Victoria’s history affecting northern parts of the state.
As part of our statewide response, approximately 372 emergency warnings were issued.
VICSES CEO Stephen Griffin said he admired the “remarkable and relentless efforts of our VICSES volunteers”.
“Thank you for your time and dedication, many of you go over and beyond and it is truly inspiring.
“In the face of adversity, our people are ca-
pable of extraordinary things. Whether it’s a one in one-hundred year flood event, or deployment to another part of the country to help local communities,VICSES volunteers are here for our communities.”
Over the last 12 months,VICSES volunteers have responded to over 35,000 requests for assistance – generously donating their time in support of their communities.
Whilst SES volunteers are well known for their response during flood and storm emergencies, volunteers also respond to over 1600 ‘Assist Police’ jobs every year – that’s 4 out 5
jobs on average, every day.
This includes assistance at searches for missing people, searches for evidence at crime scenes as well as scene preservation and assistance with lighting towers and marquees.
In addition, VICSES volunteers respond to on average just over 1,300 road crash rescues each year and are highly trained to meet national standards and participate in regular capability assessments to ensure they continue to meet these standards.
For theVICSES Alexandra Unit, the October Floods saw the biggest response campaign for
the unit’s volunteers, since the 2009 Victorian Bushfires, with 11 rescues (seven via boat), 37 tonnes of sandbags laid, and a further 15,000 sandbags distributed to residents.
With Lake Eildon as part of the unit’s response area, as well as downstream of the Goulburn River, the unit received over 140 requests for assistance.
One significant rescue included a young Acheron family, including their 5-month-old baby Ollie and their beloved pet dog and cat, who were cut off by floodwaters.
VICSES Alexandra Unit volunteers, Peter Weeks, Shannon Mitrow, and Angela WarrenSmith together led the rescue, with the family remaining in contact and using WOW Day to say thank you for their crucial assistance.
If you want to be a part of the action, learn new skills and serve your community, visit ses. vic.gov.au/volunteer.
This National Volunteer Week CFA is calling on all Victorians to Give us a Hand and consider joining their local CFA brigade.
Our message is simple and clear – At CFA you can be part of something special.
CFA is present in towns and cities right across Victoria and our volunteers are the backbone of Victoria’s emergency response network.
Our volunteers support their communities, day and night, responding to a range of emergencies including fire, flood and other natural disasters.
With more than 52,000 volunteers delivering prevention, preparedness, response and recovery activities across the state every single day.
As a critical volunteer workforce within Victoria, we are looking for people who are committed to serving their communities, in whatever way they can.
We will find a role that suits you, whether you want to take on a role as an operational firefighter or in an important support or community education position.
As an organisation, we thank all CFA volunteers who give up their personal time to
protect the lives and properties of millions of Victorians right across the state.
Coming from a wide range of backgrounds, our volunteers have diverse skills and backgrounds.
From nurses, farmers, teachers, bookkeepers, postal workers, lawyers and local business owners or those with trades qualifications, our members are part of your community.
You will know many of our members as your neighbours, friends or colleagues.
As an organisation, CFA is seeking more people like them, and like you.
Whether you have little spare time, are new to your area, or just want to be part of a group made up of like-minded people, our brigades have flexible volunteering arrangements and roles for you to explore.
Brigades are looking for people from all backgrounds who have the capacity to take up roles as daytime responders and are particularly interested in hearing from young people who want to make a difference within their local area.
For firefighters, most training and meetings are conducted on weeknights or weekends, and the time you volunteer is flexible and based on your personal availability, together with brigade and community needs.
Not all volunteer roles are on the front line with a range of roles available that involve building local relationships, engagement and education activities, fundraising, events, brigade publicity, administration, logistical and financial support, health and safety, training, junior program leaders, and more.
The camaraderie formed between brigades as you fulfill a vital role in your region is just one of many benefits you gain from being a volunteer. Our members often reflect
on the inclusive and welcoming environment of their brigade, and how joining has given them purpose and meaning.
Many are now lifelong friends and embrace the opportunity to bounce ideas off others who think differently to you.
At CFA, firefighting is more than just holding a hose.You could be a front-line firefighter one day or promoting community safety or loading aircraft bombers on another.
We are passionate about investing in our juniors, and with over 1,000 of our young stars across Victoria, we look forward to welcoming and nurturing our future firefighters who join at the age of 16 and watching them grow into their senior ranks.
Being a CFA volunteer is rewarding, a great way to connect with people and learn from new experiences – our members make a real difference in their communities.
We’re excited for you to become part of it.
To ‘Give Us a Hand’, express your interest on our website.
Once you’ve submitted your expression of interest form online, your local brigade will contact you regarding the next steps.
This Volunteer Week give back to the community and volunteer at St John of God Health Care.
Community and compassion is at the very core of the St John of God Health Care values.
The organisation’s three hospitals located in the south east Melbourne region are on the lookout for more generous people to join the volunteer team.
While there are currently around 90 volunteers in the program, the Covid-19 pandemic prompted a decline in numbers and the hospitals are seeking to regain their volunteer workforce.
St John of God Health Care volunteers are able to choose from a variety of roles including:
· Meet and greet.
· Ward based duties in a variety of departments including day oncology, maternity, rehabilitation, palliative care and mental health.
· Administration support and more!
Volunteering is known to provide many benefits including an improvement in mood, a sense of belonging and purpose and is a meaningful way to make social connections. Oncology volunteer of 12 years, Helen, echoes this sentiment.
“I believe everyone should volunteer from time to time. Not only are you helping others in the community, but it also makes you feel good inside knowing that you might have helped someone during the day.”
It’s not only the volunteers who benefit either. Hospital caregivers appreciate the extra support that volunteers provide.
St John of God South East Melbourne
Hospitals Director of Mission Integration, Rhonda O’Connor says that volunteers are an integral part of the workforce, “We consider our volunteers to be important members of our team and we treasure the contribution they make for both our caregivers and our patients. The warmth, care and generosity they show to our patients makes a difference and absolutely improves their hospital experience.”
To learn more about volunteering or to sign up, visit:
https://www.sjog.org.au/berwickvolunteers
https://www.sjog.org.au/Frankstonvolunteers
https://www.sjog.org.au/langmorevolunteers
At The Bridge, our vision is to have a connected society where people of all abilities achieve their full potential. We aim to transform the lives of our participants through a wide range of services that support people with disability through connections in the home, community, and employment.
We are always looking for volunteers that are willing to help people living with disabilities and disadvantaged backgrounds to enjoy a range of recreational, sporting and work activities. Each activity we run needs volunteers to assist our staff and coaches.
By volunteering your time with The Bridge, you can learn a range of new skills, as well as making a difference within your local community. You have a real chance to contribute to the work that The Bridge is doing by getting involved, meeting new people, and sharing your time and experience.
Linda, one of our lovely volunteers who started at The Bridge in August last year, is very well loved by our participants. Having had a 20-year career working in Specialist Disability Schools, Linda knew The Bridge from some of her students’ attending services over the past. Linda helps at various activities such as fishing and golf but is known for her coffee and news mornings where she takes a group of participants to the local shopping centre to get coffees and catch up with each other’s news.
Our activities are varied and include everything from African drumming, baking, and art and craft, to sailing, golf and woodwork. Our volunteers usually start with around three
hours per week, committing to one day or activity.
We are very lucky to have all our volunteers here at The Bridge. If you would like to to see what volunteering opportunities we have currently available, please contact us on volunteer@thebridgeinc.org.au
You can find out more by visiting thebridgeinc.org.au/get-involved/volunteer-withus
$29 .00
•All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.
•After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.
• The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item.
• Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.
• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.
section of Network Classifieds.
Applications open 1st May 2023
Applications close 5.00pm 31st May 2023
The Cardinia Foundation Ltd is a philanthropic community foundation, raising funds for local community groups throughout the Cardinia Shire, with funds dispersed through an annual grants program. Established in 2003, the foundation aims to support the social, community and physical development of the Cardinia Shire.
Community groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations are invited to apply for a grant in this year’s program. The Community Grants Program aims to support projects for Community health, seniors, Disability, Disadvantage, Youth, Arts and Men's Health across the Cardinia Shire region.
How to apply:
1. The ‘Grant Guidelines’ MUST be read before completing the application.
2. Application forms MUST be submitted on a Grant Application.Available by downloading on website under grants or by request from admin@cardiniafoundation.org
3. Late applications will not be accepted; applications MUST be submitted and received by email on or before 5:00 pm 31st May 2023.
4. Shortlisted applicants will be notified and may be requested to provide additional documentation such as; annual reports, financial statements, letters of support, information brochures, evidence of DGR endorsement etc.
Announcement of successful applicants will be made during June 2023. Please refer to our website www.cardiniafoundation.org and proceed to the Grants section for an Application Guide and Application form.
Applications will close at 5.00pm on 31st May 2023
Please direct any queries to the Executive Officer on email admin@cardiniafoundation.org
12603592-HC18-23
Star News Group is an innovative and dynamic media company located in Pakenham, Victoria As a leading publisher of print and digital news, we are looking for a part-time Telesales Representative to join our team
Overview
The successful candidate will be responsible for increasing revenue by selling our products and services to potential and existing customers via phone call This is a part-time role with flexible hours
Key Responsibilities
•Manage a portfolio of existing customers and develop relationships with new customers
•Conduct outbound telesales calls to promote our products and services
• Achieve and exceed sales targets and KPIs
•Keep accurate and updated records of customer interactions and sales leads
•Coordinate with the sales and marketing team to align sales strategies and campaigns
•Telesales or cold-calling experience is preferred but not essential
•Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
• Results driven and target-oriented mindset
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Strong attention to detail
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme
Send your application letter and resume to:
Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au
Star News Group seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms
Star News Group is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future
The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business
Sales skills/experience:
• Ab i l i ty to ma i nta i n ex i st i ng profess i onal relat i onsh i ps and to create new ones
• Ab i l i ty to meet def i ned sales and act i v i ty targets
• Excellent l i sten i ng sk i lls
• Accuracy and attent i on to deta i l
• Effect i ve t i me management to meet deadl i nes
• Ab i l i ty to operate i n a team
• Demonstrates i n i t i at i ve and flex i b i l i ty
• Effect i ve oral and wr i tten commun i cat i on
Appl i cants w i ll need the i r own rel i able veh i cle for wh i ch we w i ll prov i de an allowance
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme
Send your application letter and resume to:
Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark
mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au
“What have you done today to make you feel proud?”P O Box 620 Pakenham Vic 3810
A late fightback for the Pakenham women’s team wasn’t enough to get them over the line against Sunbury.
The Warriors kept Sunbury to just 17 points after halftime in a low scoring affair, but they left themselves too much work to do in the last stanza, down by 12 at three-quarter-time, before falling 58-54.
They got as close as two points in the last couple of minutes; after both sides missed some chances, Sunbury was able to stretch the lead to six points with 10 seconds to go, making a certainty of the result.
Haille Nickerson combined 23 points with nine rebounds, while fellow starters Ebony Sans, Jacinta Maxwell and Sam Romanowski all played bulk minutes.
It was a game the women needed to find a way to win against the only side in the competition that sits below them – a win would have given them some momentum and meant they had won three of their last four.
Instead, they languish in seventh position with a clash against McKinnon, which sits 6-3, upcoming.
Meanwhile, for the men, a 32-14 first quarter set up a dominant 30-point win over Chelsea.
Chelsea pressed hard in the second quarter, cutting the margin to nine at the main break, but Pakenham went back up to gear one in the
third and kept it going in the fourth, winning 102-72.
Ned Weideman scored 27 points while Josh Dow sunk 20.
The result keeps Pakenham in the upper rungs of the ladder with eight wins from 10 matches.
In the youth league, Braden Venning’s men smashed Southern Peninsula 109-59.
It’s their fifth consecutive win, helping stabilise the season after a worrying 1-4 start to the year.
A renewed emphasis on defence has helped revitalise the season as the Warriors rekindle the hunger and maintain the faith.
Venning has seen Josh Norton, Ned Weideman, Nathan Dodgson and Matt Berkec step up from his program to the seniors.
His latest graduate is Michael Johns, with the youth team finding an even spread of players to replace last year’s MVP.
Cooper Lanting is one who has stepped up in recent weeks, while Ethan Small making four consecutive threes to start the third stanza exemplified his class.
Putting a score on the board despite Jackson Grey’s absence with a knee injury has also been pleasing,
The youth women, meanwhile, won 85-79 over Sunbury, getting the better of the hosts in a last quarter shootout.
In a cracking NPL2 debut, a Dandenong teen has blazed a quick-fire hat-trick to lead a thrilling comeback victory for Melbourne City.
Starting as a substitute on 7 May, 15-yearold Medin Memeti entered the fray at the 55-minute mark, with his team down 0-2 against Brunswick.
In little time, Medin changed the course of the match, striking goals in the 70th, 86th and 89th minutes for a 3-2 win.
Training with Melbourne City Academy, Medin felt a few nerves playing men for the first time.
“I was a bit nervous when I saw the players, but when I got my first goal my confidence got up a bit, I was full of energy,” he said.
“I wasn’t trying to take people on, I just took my opportunities.”
Now he’s dealing with his hat-trick going viral on Melbourne City’s social media as well as his proud uncle and Greater Dandenong councillor Jim Memeti’s Facebook page.
“It’s given me a headache, my phone has been going off on Instagram with these new followers and texts.”
Blessed with speed, strength and height, the fast-rising striker has already notched many big bags of goals, including a career-high eight for MCFC Under 18s against Mornington this year.
Two years ago, he caught the eye of Melbourne City talent scouts while playing for Dandenong Thunder Under 14s where he scored an incredible 52 goals in 20 games.
In his first season with Melbourne City Under 16s last year, he was top goal-scorer with 16 goals in nine games.
So far in Under 18s this year, he’s netted 16 in just six matches before his NPL2 promotion.
“I’m calm (in front of goal) and I’m never scared to take on a player, I always back myself,” he said.
Soccer talent runs deep in the family, with Medin hoping to follow the example of older brother Mersim who played for Australia’s Under 17s.
His father Mark carved a playing career at Dandenong Thunder, now he jokes that he is now his son’s “taxi driver” to training four times a week as well as matches.
Mark’s key advice for his son is to train hard and to focus.
Medin represented Victoria Under 15s last year, and played for Melbourne City in the JSSL Professional Academy 7s tournament in Singapore.
After such a dream seniors debut, Medin aspires to play the big leagues in England,
Italy or France.
Being part of a reigning A-League premier club with ties to powerhouse Manchester City,
The top-three teams made a big statement in Outer East Women’s Division
One on Saturday with Healesville, Upwey-Tecoma and Olinda Ferny Creek extending their lead at the top of the table.
The closest game of the round took place at Healesville, where the Bloods kicked inaccurately in front of goal on their way to a 7.16.58 to 1.1.7 victory over Pakenham.
The Lions held the Bloods to just four, five and four scoring shots in three quarters of football, but were lucky to escape in the second term when the Bloods had 10 shots at goal for the meek return of two goals eight.
The Lions were outclassed by their superior-skilled opponents, but lacked nothing by comparison in intensity, and challenged the premiership favourites at certain stages of the contest.
Kayla Menere was superb in the last line of defence, while Emily Devine, Aliya Daniel, Courtney Karayannis and Tayla Sbisa were rock-solid defenders for four quarters.
The Lions midfield was also far more competitive than the last time the two teams met, with ruck Sarah Ventura, Courtney Stephens, Bianca Moody and Chloe Nagel providing headaches around the ground.
The Lions celebrated hard when Chelsea English kicked a ripper from the boundary line in the third quarter, with that six-pointer the only goal the Lions had kicked against the Bloods across four outings and two seasons of football.
The Bloods were too classy in the end, with the lethal left foot of Danielle Carrucan snaring four goals, including a ripper from the pocket in the second term.
Casey Wilsmore was terrific for the winners, while Kate Methven and Sarah Frazzetto were fantastic contributors around the ground.
Pakenham faces another tough test this week, against reigning-premiers Upwey-Tecoma, while the Bloods will need to be at the top of their game when they head to Olinda Ferny Creek.
Upwey-Tecoma skipper Alex Bantock nailed four goals as the Tigers recorded a 54-point victory over Berwick Springs.
Bantock has now kicked 12 goals for the season and leads the goal-kicking ranks from her Tigers teammate Bec Thompson on nine.
The Titans made life difficult for the Tigers, conceding just one goal in the second term, but the allowed three to sneak through in the third.
Corinna White was best for the winners while Kyla McGuire and Nat Henry were spot-on performers for the Titans.
And Olinda Ferny Creek walked away with a 136-point victory over Monbulk.
The Bloods bookended the game stylishly, kicking six goals in the first quarter and seven six-pointers in the final term.
Vanessa Bateman snagged five, Grace Belloni, Leah Cody and Olivia Edwards three, while Kyah Barry and Casey Seymour kicked two each in a very impressive display from last year’s preliminary finalists.
the pathway is there for him.
“I want to try out for A-League as soon as possible, to get game time and prove myself.”The prolific
goal-kickingform of 15-year-old striker Medin Memeti. 333711 Medin Memeti completed a dream senior’s debut with a game-turning hat-trick for Melbourne City’s NPL2 side. 333711 Picture: GARY SISSONS Medin Memeti is rising quickly through the ranks at Melbourne City. 333711 Sarah Ventura battled hard in the ruck for Pakenham against high-quality opposition in the loss to Healesville on Saturday. 335081 Picture: EUAN POULTON Cooper Lanting has been strong in recent weeks. 295034 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
Warriors and Paky One made the most of Just Social’s bye in the South West Gippsland Dart League, winning both their respective contests to move equal on points with the ladder leaders in round 15.
Warriors got the better of Gembrook 10-5 in part thanks to Liam Edwards’ second 180 of the season, while Paky One were pushed by Rebels in their 9-6 victory.
Missing their chance to tie for first and join them on 44 points, however, was Snipers.
Facing off against lowly Fore, it was the second-last side who provided the upset of the round, snatching their second victory of the season in the 8-7 triumph.
For Snipers, it could have opened an eightpoint gap between themselves in fourth and 26ers in fifth, but instead sees them tied on 40 points.
Coming off their upset win over Warriors the week before, it would have been a statement to the rest of the competition.
For their part, 26ers had a 9-6 victory over Mud Rats, thanks to Wayne’s 100 peg.
Elsewhere, Bullseyes ensured The Hoodies’ tough season continued with a 13-2 thrashing.
Dean Anderson led the way for Bullseyes, with his 100-peg the highest of the round.
Dean Gibbs leads the field with 91 tons, nine short of the magical 100 tons mark.
All eyes will be on Cardinia Club Board 1 in round 16 when Warriors tackle Just Social in a
top-of-the-table clash.
Just Social will be keen to make amends for their shock loss to Rebels the week before their bye, no doubt stewing on the result during their week off.
Results R15: Warriors 10 v Gembrook 5, 26ers 9 v Mudrats 6, Fore 8 v Snipers 7, Bullseyes 13 v Hoodies 2, Paky One 9 v Rebels 6. Ladder: Just Social 44, Warriors 44, Paky One 44, Snipers 40, 26ers 40, Rebels 32, Gembrook 20, Bulleyes 20, Mud Rats 8, Fore 8, The Hoodies 0.
Fixture R16: Fore (10) v Mud Rats (9), Warriors (2) v Just Social (1), Paky One (3) v Bullseyes (8), The Hoodies (11) v Snipers (4), 26ers (5) v Gembrook (7). Rebels - Bye.
Pakenham United is still without points eight rounds into the season after going down 4-0 to Mentone on the weekend.
The visitors gave up two first half goals and were always playing catchup after that, eventually succumbing to a 4-0 loss after giving up goals in the 57 and 74-minute-mark.
Adding insult to the result was that they finished the game with just 10 men. After receiving a yellow just before halftime, Vincent Makota was sent off at the 85-minute-mark.
It’s the second consecutive week Pakenham has been held scoreless, and having a goal difference of -26 is indicative of a tough first seven rounds.
It doesn’t get any easier for United, which next takes on Casey, which is so far 3-1-3.
Bunyip, meanwhile, is moving along nicely in fourth place on the ladder after a 1-0 victory over Barton.
Liam Lenders continued his impressive form, scoring in the 56th minute for the Strikers.
Top team Hampton Park had the bye.
Results: Bunyip 1 v Barton 0, Seaford 0 v Mount Martha 5, Casey Panthers 3 v Mount Eliza 0, Mentone 4 v Pakenham 0, Ladder: Hampton Park 19, Rosebud 16, Aspendale 15, Bunyip 15, Mount Martha 12, Mentone 12, Casey 10, Mount Eliza 9, Seaford 7, Barton 0, Pakenham 0 Fixture: Pakenham v Casey, Mount Martha v Mentone, Mount Eliza v Hampton Park, Rosebud v Bunyip, Seaford v Aspendale.
It was a fitting family affair for mother-daughter combination Bridie and Vanessa Dillon on Mother’s Day for Cardinia Storm on Sunday.
The pair were the two goalscorers for Cardinia in its 2-0 win over MCC, with Bridie hitting the scoreboard first and her mother following suit soon after.
The win was led by a strong midfield, with play-makers Deb Jacobs, Maddy Reincastle and Mimi Clark preventing MCC from advancing it into the forward half.
Cardinia Storm raised money and aware-
Berwick paratriathlete Jack Howell has taken out silver at the Yokohama event in the world triathlon para-series.
The 2024 Paralympic aspirant fell 85 seconds short of 33-year-old German Martin Schulz, but tellingly got the better of David Bryant by 13 seconds.
The pair of Aussies have had several duels in the PTS5 event but Bryant, 34-yearsold, had always so far come out on top.
Most recently, they raced each other at Devonport in March when Bryant won by 25 seconds.
While Howell’s 750 metre swim tends to gives him a strong start, Bryant is regarded for his cycle.
Bryant created a 30-second gap but Howell was able to overcome it to claim silver.
The teenager’s 20-kilometre cycle took 28:49 – it’s a personal best for his weakest leg.
He told Star News two weeks ago that he would treat this as an opportunity to trial some things as it is the first time he had been overseas alone.
Howell will next race in Montreal and Swansea, before completing a test event on the course that will stage the Paralympic event next year.
Howell was born with an absence of the left hand and shortening of the left forearm, known as symbrachydactly.
Thus, his left hand sits in a cup-like device during the race, allowed in the PTS5 category where athletes race with mild impairments and are permitted to use supportive devices.
ness on the day for the Breast Cancer Network Australia.
The club also honoured the many volunteers and supporters who have helped get the club off the ground in NationalVolunteersWeek.
Results R5: Cardinia 2 v MCC 0, Hawthorn 0 v Mentone 3, St Bede’s 3 v Waverley 1, Knox 0 v Monash University 2.
Ladder: Mentone 13, Knox 10, St Bede’s 9, Monash University 8, Cardinia 7, Waverley 6, Hawthorn 1, MCC 1.
Fixture R6: Cardinia v Monash University, Mentone v Knox, Waverley v Hawthorn, MCC v St Bede’s.
Hidden away on the outskirts of the Yarra Valley and bordered by the lush greenery of gum trees, you’d have no idea Mount Evelyn Recreation Reserve was there if you were simply passing through the area.
Access to the ground takes you up a snaking long driveway off York Road before the piercing high-pitched siren informs you that there’s a game of footy to be played amongst the majestic emerald backdrop of native fauna.
With the ground bathed in sunshine on a glorious late-autumn afternoon, the weather gods couldn’t have done much more to provide a quality spectacle between two sides desperate to register their first victory of the competition in 2023, in Mount Evelyn and Pakenham.
But for one side, the ambience and the setting would all mean for naught come the final punctuation of ambience from the end of game alert.
Few things make people immediately stop and snap their heads quite like the shrill blast of cork in an official’s whistle.
For the Pakenham coaching staff, that very clatter would have kept them awake on Saturday night, a constant reminder of where their issues begun to unravel early in the game.
From Mount Evelyn’s eight goals in the first half, three were a result of free kicks and another two heavily influenced by conceding 25-metre penalties.
Poor communication in the defensive 50 after the umpires advanced a Rover saw Matthew Brierley unmarked in the forward 50, who gleefully welcomed the ball into his open arms to get the ball rolling.
Not long after, they had their second, after Tom Hillard tackled an opponent following an uncontested mark to gift another 25-metre advancement. When Jayden Silva’s attempted switch came unstuck at the top of the opposition goalsquare, the Lions were three goals down after 20 minutes having not found the key opening themselves at the other end of the ground.
With Jake Barclay supporting Jordan Stewart in the back half, there was plenty of drive and run and carry out of the back half.
The problem for their two leaders was that the ball would come back just as quickly as it exited.
When they were able to run and carry through their creative types such as Bailey Styles and Tahj De La Rue, they looked dangerous, and spread the ground as much as they could through the wings and flanks.
Maybe that’s a by-product of playing on the expanses of Toomuc Reserve, but it resulted in difficult shots on goal, as they missed their first seven.
By contrast, the Rovers were direct through the middle and got opportunities closer to goal, which they took with both hands, kicking 4.1.
Josh Haggar’s first goal of the day got the Lions on the board, but their battle with discipline continued.
Another brain fade from Hillard and a high tackle from Silva resulted in two more majors, as the Rovers kept finding answers for everything that was thrown at them.
Haggar added a second and third, but not consecutively. Four goals to three in the home side’s favour reflected the arm-wrestle that played out within the boundary line, but Pakenham would have been left frustrated by an inability to capitalise, having possessed the ball more in their forward half but finding themselves 23 points down at the long break.
Defending the length of the ground was proving problematic all day – in part due to a lack of experience, in part due to the lack of pressure in the forward half.
Having missed yet another shot on goal in the opening minute of the second half, there were no excuses for the next concession as the ball bounced from their back 50 to the other at rapid speed.
With Mount Evelyn taking extra time to regather the Sherrin after it became lost in the narrow wooden vertical grandstands, there was ample time to establish their defence.
The ease with which the Rovers sliced through the temporary barricade erected by the visitors must have felt like a kick in the shins for the Pakenham brains trust, and it was
worsened in the following few minutes when the lead reached 39 points.
Compounding matters was the finger injury suffered by Ben McDonald, who was whisked away to hospital midway through the third term. Ruck Blake Cuttriss converted with a long set shot, and when Haggar kicked his fourth, shortly followed by another to Joel Sarlo on the back of some Kamikaze ball movement, there were signs of life.
Much like the first quarter when the blueprint was to get the ball in the hands of Barclay, Stewart and Stiles, Pakenham’s run and carry led to good things eventuating forward of the ball.
Kicking the final two goals of the quarter would have provided a spark going into the final term, but yet again their lack of discipline got in the way.
On a fast break escaping from the defensive 50, Hillard’s temper got the better of him.
High contact on his opponent at centrehalf-back saw the umpire stop play to penalise the defender, and grant the Rovers possession from where the incident took place.
The resulting goal was flattening for a young side battling so hard to keep pace, but ultimately not up to the challenge. Shadows lengthened across the ground in fading sunlight as time ticked-away, much resembling Pakenham’s hopes of a first win.
An impassioned Ash Green implored them to lift for a final effort, knowing the first goal of the term would go a long way to determining the outcome.
It took nearly 10 minutes, in a final quarter battle where Pakenham seemed to have the ascendency. Both sides had their chances to make a statement, and responsibility would fall to Stewart, drifting forward in his
aggressive defensive role.
Shortly after, Hillard looked to make amends for his earlier errors with an ingenious piece of play showcasing his football IQ.
Under pressure deep in defence, he rushed a behind, but wrapped his arm around the goalpost and slung himself back into play with momentum.
Up the guts he went, and within seconds Jake Thompson had the ball going over the goal umpires head at the other end.
23 points behind was as close as they would find themselves, however, as two late goals to the home side, including another from a free kick, shut the door on any potential comeback.
For Green, there was no secret as to where things went wrong for his young, inexperienced outfit.
“Turnovers cost us, that’s probably an issue not only this year, but in the last couple of years,” he said.
“It comes down to kids getting to the right positions, getting down low and tackling, all that sort of stuff.
“That’s what we’re working on at training at the moment, it’s just basically simple things.
“Do the simple things well and you’ll take the umpires out of the contest.
“What we’re trying to bring with a young side is excitement and enthusiasm with the way we play our footy.
“At times we do that and that’s a confidence thing, but when you turn the ball over as much as we did at times, you can probably lose your confidence fairly quickly as well.
“I’m proud of the way the guys got around it and finished the game off.
“As long as we learn from that, we can hopefully get better for it.”
At 0-3, Pakenham has played good football in patches against good sides, but not for long enough. They kicked four goals to nil in the opening quarter against Woori Yallock, and made Narre Warren work hard in the first half for their slender advantage in round one.
There’s more beyond the simple win-loss ledger, Green says, having had their hand forced through injuries to key players such as Stephen Morey and Matt Debruin.
“We’ve got few young kids who need a few more of the older experienced heads around them, which we don’t have,” he said
“They’ve been thrown in a little bit, it probably gives them bigger exposure to the system.
“We’ve changed a lot of it (the defensive system) up, and to be fair, we played our captain Jake Barclay down back who normally plays in the midfield, so we’ve got guys playing unfamiliar roles this year where in the past they’ve probably played certain roles.
“It’s more about spending time together.
“We’ve got Stephen Morey out, Zac Stewart out, Ben Green out, but ultimately you can’t do anything about it.
“I think if you start getting focused with a young group about where the ladder is position-wise, it can start working against you.
“It’s more about getting the confidence up, get them around each other and support each other, and hopefully things will turn.”
The quest for a first victory resumes next week, hosting the third-placed Upwey Tecoma at home.
You would hope that the ringing in the ear from the official’s mouthpiece has worn off by that stage, replaced by cheers and the tune of “it’s a grand old flag.”