News - Cranbourne Star News - 1st June 2023

New hub tension

By Emily Chapman Laing

The Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce’s “Cranbourne Revitalisation Project“ event was rife with tension over the $40 million proposed services hub potentially hitting the suburb in 2027.

Traders are up in arms over the loss of a significant car park as the preferred spot for the hub.

City of Casey Place Making and Revitalisation team members Juli Stickler and Jayden Mizzi addressed the chamber members to explain the hub project and request their feedback at the networking event held onThursday 25 May.

The hub project would see the Lyall Street car park turned into a multi-level building housing the community library, youth services and customer services.

“We are experiencing an immense rate of growth in Casey,“ Ms Stickler said.

“We need the right community infrastructure to support livability.“

Ms Stickler says the hub would have services for different interests across the lifespan of local residents. “It’s very much driven around what we see as core services,“ she said.

The Lyall Street site was chosen for the project due to its size, proximity to public transport and high visibility.

The car park is already council owned land, which saves the acquisition of land from another party.

The project has not yet been endorsed, but is set to go before the council for approval in August.

Until then, the project team is compiling community feedback around the project to garner local sentiment.

“We’re committed to having an honest engagement with the community and presenting the sentiment as it is,“ Ms Stickler said.

The project would be part of the council’s Capital Works Program, while also being partially funded by community rates.

“We feel that it’s a very attractive proposition for state,“ Ms Stickler said.

“The intent is that it’s an iconic, game changing building and is going to be there for 50 plus years.“

The 4500 square metre facility has local business owners and chamber members up in arms.

The number one concern presented at the chamber event was the loss of the Lyall Street car park.

While the hub design will have some undercover parking on the ground floor, many fear this is inadequate to accommodate the hightraffic area.

Chamber members queried where staff from local businesses on the High Street shopping strip will park, where staff from the new precinct will park and what the effect will be on parking during the proposed 18-month construction of the hub during which time there will be no parking in the area.

Unfortunately, as Mr Mizzi explained, most of council owned land is held wither in car parks or green spaces, and of the two the loss of a car park is preferable.

Continued page 3

Sloth helps bring kids together with wildlife

By Emily Chapman Laing

A group of eager kids gathered at Myuna Farm to read ’The Speedy Sloth’ as part of 2023’s National Simultaneous Storytime on Wednesday 24 May.

Children Australia wide joined Sid the sloth to read about his adventures at the same time.

Nestled amongst the animals of Myuna Farm, the kids delighted in the reading, and had the chance to sing along to rhymes too.

Myuna Farm, in conjunction with Doveton Library hosted the event, bringing the kids’ animal imaginations into a space with real wildlife.

Casey Cardinia Libraries CEO Beth Luppino said this year’s book choice “couldn’t be better“.

“Our very own Sid the Sloth from our Early Years programs is happy Sloths are being celebrated this year,“ she said.

“Lack of school-readiness continues to be an issue, and we support parents to address this through fantastic programs like the Nation Simultaneous Storytime.

“It’s fun, and parents can create wonderful memories with their children that make a difference to their learning outcomes in the long run.“

Ms Luppino says encouraging early engagement in reading and sharing stories sets kids up for success at school.

Naomi Woodward of Doveton Library Youth and Aydin. 334155

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Budget win for Warneet

By Emily Chapman Laing

After a long fight, Warneet’s jetties are finally being replaced, and the community could not be happier.

“It is wonderful news and it’s a credit to everybody who has been involved in it,“ said Warneet Foreshore Committee of Management ThelmaWakelam.

“A lot of people have done a lot of work on this.

“We’ll all be really pleased to see something happening.“

The State Government announced a $47 million package of works in the budget onTuesday 23 May, dedicated to rebuilding piers and jetties across the state.

This is a huge win for locals who have been crying out for support for the last three years.

The North jetty was closed in June 2020 due to safety concerns, with the South jetty being completely shut by ParksVictoria in September 2022.

Commodore Warneet Motor Yacht Club and Head of Save Warneet Jetties Alex Stroud said the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

“There’s a lot of support and a lot of push behind this and there’s certainly a lot of positive comments coming back from the wider community,“ he said.

“We’ve got nearly 800 supporters on our Facebook page and they are certainly relieved and joyed to hear that the jetties will open again.“

Mr Stroud said he is happiest for those without boats who will soon be able to enjoy the “heart and soul“ of theWarneet township.

“The people that miss out the most on the jetties are the ones who don’t have boats, who can’t go fishing and can’t enjoy what Warneet has to offer,“ he said.

“So they’re the ones I’m most pleased for that they’ll soon again be able to go on the jetty, go fishing, go walking and enjoy the crown jewel ofWarneet.“

With this massive triumph vibrating throughout the community, the residents are in suspense waiting to hear when construction will begin.

“We haven’t seen the final drawings for the plan or tenders, there’s been no discussion of when tenders will go out or how they will look,“

Mr Stroud said.

“It’d be great if we could have a road map of the progress.

“Definitely people are wanting to know a timeline and the community would very much like not to be kept in the dark.“

Mr Stroud’s sentiments are certainly shared by other members of Save theWarneet Jetties.

Warneet Foreshore Committee of Management Mary Nymyer said she was overjoyed to hear about the new funding.

“I’m extremely happy, but I’ll be happier when construction commences and the money is getting into contracts.

“It’s not just about people who don’t have boats, it’s also disabled groups who come down in buses and retirement villages who come down and use it as well.

“It’s not just recreational, there’s a whole lot of other people in the community that need access to those jetties as soon as possible.“

For other members of the Save The Warneet Jetties group, the question is now one of when they will see tangible action taken on the rebuild.

“We’d like to know when the tenders are going to be called for, what the process is and how long that’s going to take,“ said Warneet Foreshore Committee of Management Keith Williams.

“The job now is to get them built.“

Warneet Motor Yacht Club Member Ken Drane said he’s glad the money has been allocated, but he’d “like to see some of it getting spent“ both on the new jetties and their future upkeep.

“It would be good if there was some sort of plan in place for ongoing maintenance,“ he said.

“The reason they were going to close the jetties down is because they had been neglected for 20-30 years.

“Building new jetties is really good, but maintaining them so they don’t fall to pieces would be even better.“

Warneet MotorYacht Club Member Ian Gale said the Warneet community has been able to share their opinions on the look of the new structures.

“There has been some collaboration, which was good to see,“ he said.

Continued page 9

Business community has concern over new hub

From page 1

Ms Stickler and Mr Mizzi faced an array of fiery responses from event attendees who are worried the loss of the 90 space Lyall car park will be catastrophic.

The Cranbourne library has approximately 10,000 visitors each month.

Some attendees questioned what the knock-on effect will be of moving this highly used service directly into the heart of Cranbourne.

Others, including Maree Cullinan of Balla Balla Community Centre, held concerns about the design of the new hub.

The inclusion of a “quiet space“, such as a library, with “high energy“ services was challenged.

“It’s a complex mix of services,“ Ms Cullinan said.

“I’m not saying it wont work, I’m just saying it needs to be well planned out.“

However, Ms Stickler explained one element of the year-long design period will be determining the best acoustic treatment for the precinct to ensure the soundproofing of separate sections.

Another issue raised was the attraction of the hub for“undesirables“, especially with the underground parking lot.

“There’s so many undesirables in Lyall Street as it is with the bus interchange,“ one attendee said.

Ms Stickler responded by explaining the long opening hours are sure to generate high activity at the hub which will help to create a safe environment.

Vice President of the CCC Judy Davis remained doubtful, as the hall and the neighbouring food trucks have experienced multiple break ins despite being used day and night, seven days a week.

“I would rather see you upgrade the main street and upgrade the library,“ they said.

“We’re putting new things in an old section, we’ve got to make our main street look appetising.“

Ms Stickler said the project could be an opportunity for Cranbourne to create a new image.

“Cranbourne could use a little bit of rejuvenation and image overhaul,“ she said.

“It’s a great possibility to create a more vibrant community and improve the face of Cranbourne for future generations.“

Other council-led projects will be nestling into the community over the coming years, including the construction of a community hospital on Berwick-Cranbourne Road.

“Cranbourne has been one of our key projects over a number of years,“ Mr Mizzi said.

“Cranbourne is really important for Casey because it provides a significant number of

jobs and a place to recreate and eat.“

The City of Casey reports approximately 1000 new residents moving to the area each month.

“Activity centres like Cranbourne really are the heart,“ Mr Mizzi said.

Mr Mizzi said the State Government wants to build new housing in already established precincts rather than in growth corridors, such as Clyde.

New sensor poles will be introduced to Cranbourne’s High Street to collect data about how people are moving in and around Cranbourne.

They will also collect data about temperature, wind, noise and air pollution.

“The data will be really important to help support our advocacy to the State Government for investment into Cranbourne,“ Mr Mizzi said.

Mr Mizzi reassured the sensors have no CCTV or face capturing capabilities.

The chamber event was sponsored by HR Sustain and featured a short presentation by Lou-Ann Gibson.

BassMPJordanCrugnalewithWarneetresidents.

Picture:SUPPLIED

Lou-AnnGibson,JuliStickler,JaydenMizziand IanWood. 337756 Picture:EMILYCHAPMANLAING

THE LOWDOWN

Q&A

What do you love most about your job?

Seeing children aspire and being happy. Seeing children laughing and smiling makes your heart happy.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I would like to write a book and to take up photography as a hobby.

What classes did you teach before becoming principal?

I was an assistant principal, as well as working in student wellbeing, as a Languages Other

Than English (Indonesian) teacher and as a classroom teacher.

What has been your most memorable moment?

In teaching, it is becoming principal.

Personally, it is raising my three sons and watching them grow into amazing adults. What event, past or present or future would you like to witness?

Another Collingwood premiership.

What subject did you enjoy at school?

Reading and writing.

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

Something Italian or Asian inspired.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Anywhere with a beach in a tropical location.

What encouraged you to become a teacher?

The thought of helping students learn and grow. I really enjoy being in the company of children – they can provide unbiased and sweet insight and advice.

What were you like as a kid?

Studious and quiet.

Did you always want to become a teacher or was there another career you considered?

Teaching was always a goal, but I also considered sports journalism.

with Quarters Primary School principal Liz Davey

THREE … ways to enjoy winter

1 Keep a gratitude journal. The winter blues can be a dreary reality for many, especially those who suffer from seasonal affective disorder. Start by writing down three things you are grateful for at the end of each day. These can be simple, from a roof over your head, to someone holding a door open for you, to more complex like having the courage to have a difficult conversation with a loved one.

2

Camp out in the lounge room. Pick a night when the weather outside is storming, with heavy rain and wind for the coziest experience. Grab the kids, or your partner, or a friend and build a campsite in the living room, with comfy pillows, blankets and snacks to boot. Pop on the tele and spend an evening binge watching.

3

Rug up and get outside. Though it might be mighty chilly outside, there is something so refreshing about being out in the crisp air and feeling soft raindrops on your skin. Rug up in your warmest coat, gloves and beanie and head outside into nature. Go for a walk, or pop down to the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Quarters Primary School principal Liz Davey. 334682

Picture: GARY SISSONS

A boost for bus services

By Matthew Sims

Casey bus users will soon be better connected to shops, education, schools and other transport services, thanks to an upcoming extension.

The State Government is extending Route 863 between Endeavour Hills and Hampton Park about nine kilometres south along Hallam Road and Evans Road to CranbourneWest Shopping Village from Monday 26 June.

Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll announced the changes on Friday 26 May.

“We’re improving local bus services in Casey to make catching the bus a better option for locals travelling to employment, education, shops, healthcare and other transport modes,“ he said.

The extension will connect travellers to train stations in Cranbourne West, Lynbrook, Hallam and Narre Warren and provide public transport links to the new Cranbourne West Secondary College for students who live in Cranbourne West, Hampton Park and Lyndhurst, with services timed to coordinate with bell times in the mornings and afternoons of school days.

St Peter’s College (Cranbourne Campus), Gleneagles Secondary College and Hampton Park Secondary College will also benefit from the longer route.

The State Government will also be improving Route 895 between Narre Warren South and Fountain Gate, with the updated route going via Narre Warren Business Park when travelling between Narre Warren Station and Fountain Gate Shopping Centre.

Low usage services which previously ran express between the station and Narre Warren South will now visit all stops along the route, giving locals more travel options.

Casey Council chief executive Glenn Patterson said the bus network improvements were

good news for the Casey community, making it easier for community members to travel via public transport.

“Our community deserves accessible and affordable public transport to get to and from work, school and the services they need,“ he said.

“These bus routes are among those that have been identified by council as being most needed, so we’re pleased that these improvements will make travel easier for community members along these routes.

“The City of Casey looks forward to continuing to work with the State Government to improve the wider bus network in Casey, and we will continue to advocate for more buses

Winter donations needed

By Emily Chapman Laing

The Cranbourne Food Truck team has called out for local donations to assist their vulnerable clients through the winter months.

“People are having to deal with health issues, more so during winter,“ Cranbourne Food Truck Chairperson Chris Marsh said.

The food truck provides winter necessities, such as “coats, beanies, scarves and sleeping bags“.

Some of the food truck clients are living “rough“, either in shared accommodation, living in their cars, or without homes at all.

Others are individuals and families who are struggling to get by and cannot afford basic necessities.

“There are people that live in tents, a lot of people couch surf or live in cars,“ Ms Marsh said.

This winter, the Cranbourne Food Truck has asked for donations for warm winter items, especially coats, which they can distribute to clients in need.

After being shut down over COVID, the truck is back in action giving much needed

items and food to Cranbourne’s most vulnerable residents.

Ms Marsh said its important not to pass judgement on those who ask for assistance.

The rising cost of living has broadened the types of people now needing help.

“Just because you’ve got a big car and a big house, by the time you’ve made the car payment and the house payment there’s nothing left for food,“ Ms Marsh said.

“So we can’t discriminate.“

The team is also on the lookout for volunteer drivers for the truck.

“The volunteers we need, we only need from 6:15pm-8pm, twice a week,“ Cranbourne Food Truck Administrator Marie Magdziarz said.

“It’s a nice, short volunteering opportunity.“

The truck goes out on the road on Mondays and Wednesdays to the Lyall Street car park, and operates from the church on Saturdays.

Donations can be made at the Cranbourne Regional Uniting Church, 41 Lesdon Avenue, Cranbourne.

to run more frequently to connect our city’s growing communities.“

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards said the changes will give commuters a wider range of travel options.

“We’re making it easier for the community to travel across our bus network – with the extension of these routes to provide public transport links to the new Cranbourne West Secondary College for students who live in Cranbourne West,“ she said.

Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson said the changes aim to get all Casey residents where they need to go with ease.

“This is all about giving passengers in Casey more options about when they travel on our

bus network and getting them where they need to go,“ she said.

Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas said the updated routes will better connect Casey locals to vital services.

“Locals will benefit most from the extension of these routes,“ he said.

The extended routes form part of Victoria’s Bus Plan, which is delivering improvements to the state’s bus network.

Released in 2021, Victoria’s Bus Plan sets out how the State Government will increase the number of people choosing to take the bus by delivering a modern, productive and environmentally sustainable bus network.

When: Saturday 3 June 9am to 12pm Thursday 8 June 11am to 2pm

Where: Hunt Club Village Shopping Centre 1 Linsell Boulevard, Cranbourne East

The Cranbourne Food Truck.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Picture: GENERIC

LENSCAPE

Rail disrupted

Major construction along the Pakenham train line will take place throughout May and June as crews continue work to remove dangerous level crossings and build new stations.

On the Pakenham Line, 22 dangerous and congested level crossings are being removed, with 13 gone and another nine underway.

From 7pm on Wednesday 7 June to Thursday 22 June, crews will be working around the clock in rail corridors on McGregor Road, Main Street and Racecourse Road.

The construction team will use this time to remove and install track, install new signalling, continue work on the elevated rail bridge and on the new stations at Pakenham and East Pakenham.

Buses will replace trains between Berwick and Pakenham during these works.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN

Thumbs down

It’s gold chain week at the servos. Petrol through the roof for no reason.

Thumbs down

To the service stations for putting petrol up by 40 cents per litre in one shot.

Thumbs down

To bank branches reducing tellers, branches and asking why you want your money when you withdraw it (presumably to upsell? maybe insurance)... Rude and very inconvenient.

Thumbs down

To knob jockey drivers that do 10kmh under the limit sitting in the right hand lane because they are going to turn right in 5 kms.

Thumbs down

To every cat lover in the coastal villages for letting their cats kill wildlife. Bring on a cat free zone Casey council.

Thumbs down

To cars going through red lights.

Thumbs up

To Cranbourne Public Hall being able to be renovated with the announcement by State Government in the budget for approval of 1 Million Dollars. Thanks to Minister Lily D’Ambrosio MP and Pauline Richards MP for Cranbourne.

Thumbs down

To roadworks bingo.

Thumbs up

To the Cranbourne Botanic Gardens forest therapy, it was a fantastic experience even in the rain.

Thumbs down

To the amount of dogs wandering the streets...usually the same culprits.

Thumbs up

Huge Thumbs up to the Warneet Jetties being replaced!

In nearby Beaconsfield, crews will work 24/7 on the Brunt Road level crossing removal to prepare the area for major construction, including service relocation works, installing road safety barriers, setting up machinery on site, and completing critical works in the rail corridor.

To ensure the work can be completed safely, buses will replace trains between Dandenong and Pakenham from 9.30pm Thursday 25 May to the last service Tuesday 30 May.

At Webb Street, Narre Warren, major works are also progressing to remove the dangerous and congested level crossing and build a brand new Narre Warren Station.

Crews atWebb Street will work 24/7 to complete upgrades and relocations of essential services, piling, and concrete pouring in preparation for the new rail bridge and elevated station that will carry trains over the road.

Arts attractions for all ages

Casey arts lovers are encouraged to brave the cold conditions and take advantage of the upcoming offerings as part of the 2023 Winter Arts Festival.

Now in its 21st year and with the theme of ‘lighting up winter with creativity’, the festival will be held at venues across Casey from Thursday 15 June until Sunday 30 July.

The festival will include light shows over Anniversary Lake at Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick and the Lost Dogs’ Disco, a temporary sculpture at Bunjil Place which celebrates the place of dogs in our lives, as well as a range of school holiday options to keep children’s imaginations active during the winter holidays.

Casey Council community life director Callum Pattie said the festival will encourage

the community to engage with art in new and unique ways.

“Every offering in the program is by the community or made for the community,” he said.

“The festival has a packed program of more than 60 events for all ages, either free or low cost, including Seussical — a fun filled extravaganza to entertain the young and the young at heart, and For Our Elders — short documentary honouring and capturing the stories of Aboriginal Elders in the south east.

“Berwick District Woodworkers (BDWWC) Annual Expo will also be held and will include live demonstrations, children’s activities, and chainsaw carving.”

To view the full program or purchase tickets, visit casey.vic.gov.au/winter-arts-festival

An online project update on the Pakenham Level Crossing Removal Project will be held on Wednesday 31 May, 6pm to 7pm.

Members of the team will talk about upcoming construction activities, the 24/7 works and how to keep up to date on works in the area.

To attend, please register via Eventbrite by Sunday 28 May.

If you’re a Pakenham Line commuter, or planning to catch the train to the footy on the weekend, please allow extra time and plan your journey.

View the disruptions map to find out if you’re affected and to plan your journey.

In total 110 level crossings are being removed across Melbourne, with 70 already removed.

Bringing classics to Bunjil

By Matthew Sims

Casey youngsters and those young at heart are encouraged to dive into the weird, wacky and wonderful world of Dr Seuss as the Windmill Theatre Company is bringing Seussical to Bunjil Place later this month.

Opening next Friday 9 June, the show will be running with a mixture of matinees and evening performances until Sunday 18 June.

Weaving through a number of Seuss’ tales of whim and wonder, the story focuses on the plight of Horton the elephant, who finds a small speck which he soon discovers is a small planet. Emilie Toby is playing Gertrude McFuzz, a shy but determined little bird with a one-feather tail who strives for Horton’s attention.

“It is very exciting,“ she said.

“It’s been really fun to play Gertrude.“

Toby said it is rewarding to unpack Gertrude’s journey towards realising that her looks are not the most important thing.

“It’s really about what’s inside that counts,“ she said.

Toby said director Sean van Geyzel is working well with the cast and production team to bring the story to life.

“He’s got such a clear idea of the show,“ she said.

“He’s been keeping us grounded.“

The show will feature a live orchestra, as well as colourful sets and costumes. Toby said Dr Seuss’ stories still have a lot of valuable messages for audiences of all ages.

“It’s definitely about standing up for what you believe in,“ she said.

Aidan Niarros is taking on The Cat in the Hat and said he was looking forward to diving headfirst into bringing the world of Dr Seuss onto the Bunjil Place stage.

“It’s a fund, silly, wild ride,“ he said.

“It’s such a fun role.“

Often portrayed as an agent of chaos, Niarros said he thoughtThe Cat in the Hat was more of a facilitator of fun.

“I think it’s great for young kids to embrace their imagination and go where it takes them,“ he said.

“You’re in control of your own mind.“

Niarros said the sets were among the

show’s many highlights.

“The set is what I imagine a child thinks a theatre set would look like,“ he said.

“The costuming looks fantastic.“

Adult tickets are available from $40.

To purchase tickets, visit www.windmilltheatre.com.au

The South East Area Throwdown presented by The South East Sessions.

Picture: FLYING ART STUDIO

The Grey-Headed Flying-Fox is one of four flying-fox species found on mainland Australia, and the only one commonly present in Victoria. 336977

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Aidan Niarros is bringing one of Dr Seuss’ most well-known characters, The Cat in the Hat, to life at Bunjil Place.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Lucas van Geyzel is playing the young Jojo who needs help from Horton the Elephant (Mathew Charles Arter).

Works are continuing to remove level crossings and build new stations along the Pakenham line. 321207 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Crossing closure anger

By Emily Chapman Laing

A Cranbourne mother is furious at the closure of yet another local school crossing.

The crossing, at the corner of Duff Street and Tucker Street in Cranbourne, has been left unmanned.

The crossing is in close proximity to Cranbourne Park Primary School, and local mother Claire said the decision to close the crossing leaves kids in danger.

On Monday 22 May, Claire said her and her three children counted 50 cars and a bus pass them in a five minute period as they walked to the crossing.

Based on these numbers, during peak school hours this means up to 600 cars pass the crossing.

“It’s just one car after another,“ Claire said.

“There’s trucks, there’s buses and there’s kids walking on their own.“

Claire said the situation might be less perilous if the crossing served high school aged children, but primary school children just aren’t as aware.

“There’s no way I would allow my kids to walk on their own,“ Claire said.

With the crossing situated just before a round-a-bout, there are cars flooding in from every direction.

“There’s cars every way,“ one of Claire’s young sons added.

“The cars fly up and down here, they fly around the corner,“ Claire said.

“You’re trying to cross and you think there’s no cars and then suddenly there’s a car there.“

The road runs not only past the school but serves as a connection to the South Gippsland Highway and a direct route to the shops.

“It’s just too dangerous,“ Claire said.

Manager Connected Communities Sara Ball said staff resourcing issues have not been a factor in the decision to close crossings across Casey.

“We regularly review our school crossing service to identify improvement opportunities to benefit Casey’s growing community,“ Ms Ball said.

“Under the State Government’s School

Crossing Subsidy Program, and to meet the VicRoads standards for the management of a flagged children’s crossing, more than 20 primary school children must use a crossing during both the morning and afternoon times for it to qualify as a designated crossing site.

“Counts conducted on six occasions, over three days, during both morning and afternoon peak school times, showed that the crossing on Duff Street near Tucker Street did not meet the VicRoads criteria to retain a supervisor.“

According to the council, the maximum

number of primary school students counted was 12.

“Given the low pedestrian counts, the crossing did not qualify for State Government funding and was subsequently closed,“ Ms Ball said.

Jail for armed carjacker who targeted online sellers

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A carjacker who robbed four online sellers, including two at knife-point in Melbourne’s East and South-East, has been jailed.

Lachlan Tre-Week-Kane, 25, of Wantirna, pleaded guilty at the County Court of Victoria to a spree of aggravated carjacking, six counts of theft, handling stolen goods, bail offences and driving unlicensed.

In December 2021, Tre-Week-Kane stole a car diagnostic tool, two VW Golfs, a Holden SSV ute while meeting the online vendors.

The offences occurred across Melbourne, including a car theft in Springvale and a petrol drive-off in Clyde.

In one case, he pulled a knife on a Golf owner during a test drive and told him to “get the f*** out of the car you dog”.

At another ’inspection’, Tre-Week-Kane reversed the owner’s ute, then drove forward into the owner and fled in the vehicle. The owner suffered minor injuries.

At the time, Tre-Week-Kane was unlicensed and on bail. He was said to have been overwhelmed by a desire to possess cars

Enrolling for 2024 and 2025

He has been found guilty of 78 previous offences, jailed five times and twice breached community corrections orders. He’d committed multiple bail and disqualified driving offences.

Judge Peter Lauritsen noted the man’s extremely low IQ, drug-taking, ADHD and autism-spectrum diagnoses impaired his ability to make rational decisions and to regulate his behaviour.

It heightened the need to protect the community from him, the judge noted.

A psychologist assessed Tre-Week-Kane

as a high risk of violent reoffending. This risk had receded while in custody - away from his social group, financial pressures and the need for self-gratification.

Judge Lauritsen said as a young person, the accused had capacity to change but his prospects were “uncertain but tending towards the positive”.

Tre-Week-Kane was jailed for up to five years and two months, including 524 days already served in pre-sentence remand. He will be eligible for parole after serving two years and eight months.

We encourage every student to pursue excellence in all endeavours and aim to ensure every student achieves their best potential so they are ready - not just for the completion of their final exams but for life!

To find out more and to apply please visit our website or use the QR Code.

L to R: Darcey, Nash, Claire and Lochie at the abandoned crossing. 336762

Picture: EMILY CHAPMAN LAING

On disastrous climate path

By Emily Chapman Laing

Many environmental groups have warned against the creation of new oil and gas mines in Australia as we rapidly approach the 1.5 degree climate change threshold, but others are hoping industries can work proactively to create change.

Western Port Biosphere CEO Mel Barker says “now is the time for all to engage constructively in working out solutions“.

“Several big ticket energy projects are being considered and assessed for Western Port, including port infrastructure and shipping to support the construction of wind turbines in Bass Strait and a potential hydrogen export terminal,“ she said.

“While we support the transition as quickly as possible away from fossil fuels, it is critical that the potential impacts on Western Port’s fragile ecosystems are assessed.“

The Western Port Biosphere is a hub of diverse and climate-tackling ecosystems.

Ms Barker said it will take all parties to ensure the biosphere is protected and managed.

“It is important to connect with all parties, including fossil fuel generators, and agree on strategies and on-the-ground action,“ she said.

Doctors for the Environment Australia (DEA) has warned against opening any new gas or coal mines in Australia.

“As doctors, we are worried about the impact of rapid global warming, particularly as we move into the next El Nino, which could result in the next wave of heat stress, bushfire and smoke related deaths- especially for vulnerable people such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic illness,“ said Dr Mike Forrester, Victorian Chair of DEA.

“The world’s top scientists have called for an end to the mining and burning of gas, oil and coal, which are the main causes of climate change.

“Any fossil fuels mined in Australia will be burned on our planet, with direct implications for all of our health, for centuries to come.

“Our health and way of life will depend on decisions we make this decade.“

The International Energy Agency clearly stated in their ’Net Zero by 2050 report’ that “no new oil and natural gas fields are needed in the net zero pathway“.

In an article for ’The Conversation’, Adjunct Professor Crawford School of Public Policy at Australian National University Richard Den-

niss warned upcoming projects could triple Australia’s annual emissions.

“Australia has 116 new coal, oil and gas projects in the pipeline,“ Mr Denniss wrote.

“If they all proceed as planned, an extra 1.4 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases would be released into the atmosphere annually by 2030.“

On Wednesday 31 May the Greens introduced a bill to put a coal ban in the Victorian constitution by 2030.

Labor made the ban on gas fracking constitutionally protected, and the Greens say a ban on coal mining should similarly be enshrined in the Constitution to make it harder for a future state government to extend the life of coal in Victoria.

Greens spokesperson for Environment, Senator Sarah Hanson-Young said polluting projects are “failing to be assessed for the emissions they create“.

“In 2023 there is no excuse for environmental approval to be given to new coal or gas projects without considering climate pollution,“ she said.

Deputy Leader of the Victorian Greens, Ellen Sandell MP said the bill would set an end date for coal inVictoria so the government can properly plan for an orderly transition of workers and communities.

“It would also put the ban on coal mining in the Constitution so future Liberal or Labor Governments couldn’t reopen dangerous, destructive coal mining,“ she said.

Despite this, Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch is advocating for the creation of new gas supplies.

“New gas supply is needed, especially inVictoria and New South Wales, to keep the lights on, avoid shortfalls and put downward pressure

on prices as it increasingly partners with renewables to ensure reliable electricity,” she said.

The statistics show the planet is on track to reach the disastrous 1.5C of warming earlier than predicted, with the World Meteorological Association expecting the breach as early as 2027.

Leader of the Australian Greens Adam Bandt has slammed the Labor and Liberal parties for continuing to support the industries causing the climate crisis.

“We are on the verge of going over the climate cliff, but Labor and Liberal are actively making the problem worse,” Mr Bandt said.

“Both major parties are using the petroleum industry conference to try and outbid each other on their support for an industry killing the planet.

“By pushing more gas, Labor and Liberal are putting lives at risk, bringing worse fires, floods and droughts to Australia.“

The Greens have said Australia’s governments have failed to align their emissions reduction with the global goal of limiting the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

They have warned Labor’s 43% emissions reduction target by 2030 simply isn’t enough, especially when it is coupled with ongoing support for resource depletion.

Both Labor and Liberal have again shown they are “at the disposal“ of the gas industry at the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) conference held from 15-18 May.

APPEA’s conference in May was focused on net zero technologies within the industry such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) and low-carbon hydrogen.

APPEA advocated how the industry is central to a future energy system with lower emissions.

“The gas industry is at the centre of enabling emissions reductions in a cleaner energy future,“ APPEA Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said.

“Natural gas is important because it is backing up renewables in electricity, supporting major industries such as manufacturing and being used to create everyday products.

“And while we’re delivering energy security and emissions reductions, we will be among the biggest taxpayers in Australia, delivering over $16 billion to governments this year to help build schools, roads and hospitals.”

ExxonMobil CCS Facilities Engineering Lead Alan Black said Victoria’s Gippsland Basin Joint Venture (GBJV) is examining a major oil and gas project which could convert and recycle infrastructure for carbon capture utilisation and storage (CCUS) to help protect the environment.

“A global challenge exists to rapidly decarbonise, and the Gippsland Basin is a prime location to support the storage of large quantities of CO2,” Mr Black said.

A 2019 paper from Tom Swann of the Australia Institute explained Australia’s emissions accounting does not take into consideration those generated off-shore.

According to the paper, “Australia is the largest coal exporter in the world and on recent reports the largest LNG exporter too“.

“For every Australian, the country mines 57 tonnes of fossil fuel CO2 per year,“ Mr Swann said.

“That is ten times greater than the world average.

As one of the world’s foremost countries for fossil fuel exports, Mr Swann says“the CO2 potential of these exports is more than twice as much as the greenhouse gas emissions Australia emits domestically“.

Greens leader Adam Bandt fears the consequences of ignoring export emissions.

“We share the atmosphere with the rest of the people on the planet,“ he said.

“The consequences will come back to bite us.”

If the Australian government fails to drastically cut down on emissions, both domestically and through exports, citizens nationwide will suffer.

The Climate Council outlines the “grave“ consequences of the 1.5 degree rise.

Extreme heat events will see an increase of 14 per cent.

Sea levels will rise by 0.40 metres, and icefreearcticsummerswillbecomemorefrequent.

Species loss will increase by 18 per cent.

In the ocean, things become more dire.

Coral reefs will decline by a further 70-90 per cent, and there will be a 1.5 million tonne decline in marine fisheries.

The Climate Council has warned “breaching 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming significantly increases the risk of triggering abrupt, dangerous and irreversible changes to the climate system”.

Evening nature walk celebrates biodiversity in Casey

By Emily Chapman Laing

On Wednesday 24 May, Myuna Farm held an evening nature walk through the farm wetlands to celebrate UN’s International Day for Biological Diversity.

The community gathered at Myuna Farm and caught the electric train down to the wetlands to learn about biodiversity and the flora and fauna found in the local area.

The activities included a group walk and talk about the importance of the wetlands and the biodiversity within, with a focus on the large population of Grey Headed flying foxes.

The community also participated in a frog and bird call play-back activity using citizen science apps, as well as a macro invertebrate and water bug identification activity and a seed dispersal demonstration, which involved examining the various ways that seeds can be dispersed.

“The guided walk through Myuna Farm’s wetlands was a chance for the community to immerse themselves in the rich biodiversity of thelocalarea,“CityofCaseyManagerSustainability and Environment Micheal Jansen said.

Wetlands like the one at Myuna Farm play a vital role in the healthy function of local ecosystems.

“The various organisms within the wetlands rely on each other for food sources and habitats, forming intricate ecological connections,“ Mr Jansen said.

“For example, the fruit bats found in the wetlands contribute to the pollination of the local Eucalyptus forests.”

The water that enters the wetlands is largely from storm water drains.

This includes drainage from roads and roofs.

Mr Jansen said the contents that enter the run off from local drainage can have a big impact on the organisms and their ability to survive in the wetlands.

“Maintaining a healthy wetland environment is also crucial for functions such as flood control, filtration of toxins and pollutants and for native Australian species to thrive.”

Wetlands will act as a big sponge and fill up with water, slowing flows in local creek systems.

The special plants found growing in the wetlands work to filter toxins and pollution, improving the water quality flowing through to Dandenong Creek and eventually to the bay.

The wetlands also provide unique habitat for many native Australian species, including several threatened species.

Local wildlife find their homes in more places than just bushland.

Patches of roadside vegetation, farmlands and urban areas are also habitats for wildlife, and are not always managed and protected.

Community support for biodiversity is the best way to ensure wildlife in all habitats of

the region can continue to thrive.

“Education helps foster a deeper awareness and appreciation for nature, to ensure a sustainable and thriving planet for future generations,“ Mr Jansen said.

“Supporting local biodiversity requires a collective effort from the community.”

Mr Jansen said there are many ways for the local community to support biodiversity in Casey.

“Small actions such as making sure what goes down the drain at home or on the streets isn’t toxic, as the drains flow through to local wetlands such as Myuna Farm’s, and not littering as rubbish also ends up in our wetlands and waterways,“ he said.

“Other ways include planting native indigenous plants to support biodiversity in the your backyard, installing nesting boxes and bird baths and getting involved with a volunteer group, such as Landcare, for more wide scale native planting.”

Keeping pets contained and making sure fruit tree netting is safe for local wildlife are also easy ways to contribute to the health of local ecosystems.

“Other things may be as simple as driving slower at dusk and dawn which is when many native species are out feeding and are at higher risk,“ Mr Jansen said.

“You can participate in citizen science, such as iNaturalist, where you can contribute to species conservation without having to be an expert.”

Mr Jansen said it is important o spread “the word that biodiversity is important and worth celebrating and preserving.”

Close up with some of the things caught in the creek including Mosquito Fish, Shrimp and Water Boatman. 336977

Picture: GARY SISSONS

It is estimated we may reach the 1.5 degree increase as early as 2027. Picture: GENERIC

Protecting our waterways

Students, volunteers and the community can now help protect the environment through hands-on opportunities to monitor the health of waterways and their wildlife at the Mornington Peninsula’s Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park.

Minister for Water, Harriet Shing officially opened the South East Water Discovery Lab at the sanctuary located in Pearcedale.

“The South East Water Discovery Lab is a fun and accessible way for students to get curious about the health of our waterways, and to identify ways to protect wildlife and biodiversity,“ she said.

“During Education Week, we celebrate opportunities for students to learn outside the classroom and make a lasting a positive difference to the world around them.”

The new education centre was made possible through the support of South EastWater’s annual Community Grants program, which has so far granted $230,000 to 50 community groups across Melbourne’s south-east.

The South East Water Discovery Lab provides ongoing water quality testing to preserve

the health of Langwarrin Creek, which flows directly through Moonlit Sanctuary before flowing into Western Port Bay.

“The South East Water Discovery Lab is an exciting addition to Moonlit Sanctuary in

Pearcedale, expanding their conservation efforts to help protect wildlife in and around Langwarrin Creek and its flow into Western Port Bay,“ said Bass MP Jordan Crugnale. Participants will have hands-on opportu-

nities to test the water quality of the creek by surveying water bugs (invertebrates).

Water bugs are nature’s biological indicators, helping to identify pollution in our waterways and support native animals including fish, frogs, rakalis and even platypus.

The South East Water Discovery Lab offers a closer look at wildlife living in and around Langwarrin Creek, including new exhibits such as the Growling Grass Frog.

The project began with a South East Water community grant to the RARES Foundation (Recovery and Restoration of Endangered Species), with an additional $35,000 in funding from Moonlit Sanctuary to help make it a reality.

The South East Water Community Grants program supports projects that make our communities better places to live, in areas of environment, health and liveability, water education, and affordability.

This includes projects that support the health and liveability of Port Phillip Bay and Western Port and areas nearby such as beaches, creeks and wetlands.

After a long battle, budget brings a win for Warneet

From page 3

“What we’re really asking for is that there is continued community consultation and that the community knows the timelines, and can say that we’re actually getting what we want.“

TheWarneet community is excited to welcome back not only a place for recreation, but an important feature for safety in their town.

“If there is a bushfire, there’s one road in

and out of the community,“ Mr Stroud said.

“If people want to evacuate, they will go down to the waterway.“

Other members explained the jetties are the only access for ambulances and rescue efforts for any incidents occurring in deep waters, beyond the shallow reach of the boat ramp.

Bass MP Jordan Crugnale has been instrumental in saving the jetties, locals say.

“We are delivering on our $9.5M commit-

ment to rebuild both North and South Jetties in Warneet and I want to take this opportunity to thank the Save the Warneet Jetties committee and the local community who ran a fantastic collective coordinated campaign – great things happen when we listen, work with and walk side by side with our community,“ Ms Crugnale said. “The jetties are the heart of Warneet. I can’t wait to share the designs with the Warneet community and see this amazing project move into planning for

Fiona Williams

the construction stage.“

Ms Crugnale said preliminary designs were completed by Better Boating Victoria late last year as part of the Warneet Boating Precinct Plan.

Parks Victoria Acting Regional Director Southern and Maritime Jodi Heath said she is pleased to see funding allocated to the rebuild. “We’re well underway with planning and procurement will start later in the year,” she said.

Every day, as she leads the team at Casey Grammar School, Fiona Williams nurtures a school community that strives for academic excellence while understanding the value of building strong and respectful relationships, and supporting student and staff wellbeing.

Since being appointed Principal in 2020, Fiona has continued to build the school’s reputation while introducing innovative programs that capture young minds and enhancing facilities for the 1,000-plus students through a program of major building works.

Fiona is determined to continue to create a safe and welcoming environment where students can learn, explore and follow their passions from their very first day at the school.

“Our exceptional teachers inspire students to be creative, curious and collaborative learners through programs which explore real world challenges and solutions,” says Fiona.

“Our goal is to provide every student with practical, life-long skills to ensure they are ready for the world beyond school and to help each and every student to enjoy respectful relationships and embrace compassion for others.”

To ensure students continue to enjoy the highest standards of education in the classroom, Fiona encourages staff and students at Casey Grammar School to be lifelong and curious learners and lives and breathes that philosophy herself. In collaboration with Professor Sean Kang at the University of Melbourne, and based on the latest educational neuroscience research, Fiona has developed a program for teachers focused on enhancing their communication skills, data-informed teaching and evidence-based planning.

“We are very proud of our warm sense of community and of our focus on excellence that helps grow students with kind hearts and bright minds.”

Fiona was recently announced as a Principal of the Year finalist in the prestigious Australian Education Awards.

Michael Johnson, founder of Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park. 196740

They’re giving it a shot

By Emily Chapman Laing

A group of curious women showed their marksman skills at Cranbourne Dandenong Pistol Club’s ‘Ladies Day’.

“It was an amazing experience, I’ll definitely be back,” participant Donna Marie said.

“My daughter and I had a great day. Our family are looking forward to joining up,” Suzette Luketic said.

“It was a great idea and the lunch provided was a great selection too.

“Lots of hard work and effort to make sure we had a great time.”

After a quick safety brief, the group was led into Range 1 for their first shots.

Under the purview of the Range Officers, the ladies learned how to load and fire an ISSF 22 semi automatic handgun.

The targets showed the talent of these women, who left their sheets of paper looking like swiss cheese.

In Range 3 the ladies were delighted with demonstrations from the single action cowboy shooters and the international practical shooters.

Dressed in their cowboy hats and holsters, the single action shooters raced against the clock to shoot their handguns, rifle and shotgun.

A black powder shooting demo was also given, leaving clouds of sweet-smelling gunpowder floating in the air.

The IPSC shooters were next, with champion Antonio giving a heated demonstration as he shot multiple targets in this quick, energetic style of shooting.

The ladies got to try out the demos for themselves.

Starting with cowboy shooting, the group was given the chance to grow their single action revolver capabilities.

The ladies got to try out a rifle, followed by an ISPC 9mm semi automatic.

Earplugs were the saviours of the day, as

hundreds of shots were fired over the session.

The club hosted a free lunch for the participants, with sweets, wraps and coffee.

Cranbourne Dandenong Pistol Club President (CDPC) Scott Donald-Hoath said Ladies Day helps to dismantle the stereotypical image of shooters as “hunters”.

“It is an actual Olympic sport,” he said.

“And the ladies are usually better shooters than the blokes.”

The club is actively working to distance itself from violence with firearms.

Military and camo clothing is banned within CDPC walls.

Instead, the members wear sportswear.

“Any breach of the rules is a disqualifier,” Mr Donald-Hoath said.

Mr Donald-Hoath says shooting truly is a family sport.

A pistol club is one of the few sporting precincts where children can join in with parents and grandparents.

Juniors can apply for a firearm license at 12 years of age.

While safety is a large concern around firearms, Mr Donald-Hoath says the club has been operating since 1972 and has never had a safety incident.

CDPC emphasises their inclusive and welcoming environment, and encourages anyone interested in shooting, irrespective of gender, religion, or background to join.

“It’s like a family, everyone’s here for each other.”

Mr Donald-Hoath is now looking to open a new precinct in Carrum Downs.

The new club will have 32 shooting ranges and will host worldwide shooters.

With federal, state and local government support, the $13 million club will support even more new members.

CDPC attended a national competition in Adelaide earlier this month.

The club’s shooters regularly go interstate and international to showcase their skills. Proud of their skills.Participants

Participants had the chance to shoot a Smith & Wesson.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

were able to keep their targets after handgun practice.

Participant shoots a 9mm semi automatic. Range Officer instructing a participant.

The ladies worked on their stance and gun handling skills.

Single action cowboy shooting demonstration.

Art Exhibition

Berwick Artists Society is hosting an Art Exhibition at Cranbourne Library.

All the wonderful paintings are for sale. There will be artist demonstrations each day at the library.

A People’s Choice award for the crowd-favourite painting will be featured.

· 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East, 29 May - 17 June.

Learn Reiki Level One

Join Aligning Energy in an intimate group setting for an amazing day of learning Traditional Usui Reiki Level One (Shoden).

Reiki is a beautiful Japanese healing modality that allows you to channel life force energy. In level one you are taught how to channel and practice reiki on yourself, loved ones, animals, food and plants.

Reiki level one is the perfect place to start on your self-healing journey, as the modality teaches you how to hold space for yourself and reconnect to your body, your spirit and the universe. Tickets and information available online.

· Sunday 19 June, 9am-5pm.

South East Dach Club Meetup

Calling all dachshund owners! South East Dach Club is hosting another meet up for special sausage pups.

Bring your pup along to meet some new furry friends and have a run around in the dog park.

· Casey Fields Dog Park,Casey Fields Boulevard, Cranbourne East on Sunday 11 June at 3pm.

Berwick Boutique Craft and Food Market

Spend your Saturday at the historic Old Cheese Factory in Berwick.

This lovely venue offers beautifully manicured gardens, a large children’s playground and barbecue/picnic facilities along with plenty of parking. Step back in time and browse the wonderful and unique crafts and design from local makers and unwind from the week.

Gold coin donation entry, with onsite parking and dogs allowed.

· 34 Homestead Road, Berwick on Saturday 24 June from 9am to 2pm.

Elf the Musical Elf the Musical is a hilarious, full belly, laugh out loud musical- you will not want to miss.

Based on the Warner Bros. Movie Elf starring Will Ferrel.

Follow Buddy the Elf as he travels to New York to find his Dad Walter Hobbs and the craziness that ensues.

Featuring show stopping Musical numbers,beautiful costumes and live orchestra this might just be your favourite musical ever.

Ready-Set-Connect

This event brings together service providers with Parents/Carers, Support Coordinators, Teachers and LACS in a fun and interactive speed dating format. The networking event provides the opportunity for providers to share information about their business and products. And for Parents/Carers, Support Coordinators, Teachers and LACS, the event helps them keep up to date with current services in their local community and exercise their choice and control.

· Cranbourne Turf Club, 50 Grant Street, Tuesday 13 June, 9:45am-12:30pm.

This maybe the most affordable family fun you can have at a musical during the July school holidays and help to celebrate an early Christmas in July.

Join in the interactive snowball fight with the elves, come dressed in your favourite Christmas character costume for prizes and giveaways. Tickets available online.

· Cranbourne Community Theatre, Brunt Street, Cranbourne on Friday 30 June and Saturday 1 July.

Psychic dinner

Join a group of gifted psychics for a spiritual dinner. Participants will indulge in their choice of dinner, a psychic reading and interactive spiritual guidance through the evening. Explore the otherworldly experience of mediumship and clairvoyance.

· 81 Restaurant & Bar, 81 High Street, Berwick on Monday 5 June, 6pm-9:30pm.

Polynesian Dance Workshop

Would you like to learn Polynesian dance?

Here’s your chance to come have fun, meet new people and have a good sweat.

Bring your gals along and join LetTeine Polynesian Dance!

· The Factory, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East on Sat 17 June 12:30pm2:30pm.

Magpie Ink - Elliott and De Goey

You’re invited to see Collingwood’s Jamie Elliott and Jordan De Goey.

The Pies are hot! And none hotter than these two!

Intimate, personal and completely uncensored - the only place you’ll get to hear all the true stories on what’s really happening at the Mighty Pies!

From goals after the siren to headline news: all the celebration, controversy, & predictions for The Pies in 2023!

Plus! Your once in a lifetime opportunity to meet and have your picture taken with two of Collingwood’s modern day favourite sons!

General Admission $49*.

Meet N Greet, Selfie & Show Package $79*.

Tickets available via Eventbrite.

· Trios Sports Club, 30 Grant Street, Cranbourne on Thursday 22 June, 7pm.

Biggest Morning Tea

Oakgrove Community Centre is hosting a Biggest Morning Tea to raise funds for the Cancer Council.

There will be interactive activities with delicious morning tea for attendees to enjoy.

All proceeds will be donated to the Cancer Council.

· Oakgrove Community Centre, 89-101 Oakgrove Dr, Narre Warren South on 7 June 10:30am – 12pm.

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.

Picture: CRANBOURNE COMMUNITY THEATRE

‘Thriving’ builder collapses

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A Hallam-based builder had been promoting its “thriving” business just a day before going into liquidation.

Rawdon Hill formally announced on 25 May that it was winding up and had appointed Dye & Co as liquidators.

A day before liquidation, Rawdon Hill posted on social media that it could“help” customers of collapsed builder Porter Davis to complete their homes in the South East, according to The Age.

A Porter Davis customer in Clyde North says she came close to signing on with a deposit.

“We were about to sign on with this builder. They were the only ones that followed through with a quote for us,” she posted on social media.

“They’ve just gone into liquidation.”

In April, Rawdon Hill advertised in Star News that it had “secure product supply” and were “here to stay”.

“We acknowledge people’s reticence in choosing a builder in the current circumstances,” general manager Peter Grant stated.

“But want to emphasise that our current and future customers are and will continue not to be impacted negatively.

“We … can say with absolute certainty that we will proudly finish every single home in our strong pipeline, while we continue to pay everyone on time, every time – guaranteed.

“Rawdon Hill Homes continues to thrive and we are searching for even more local subcontractors.

“We are here and we are ready to build now.”

Since liquidation, Rawdon Hill’s Facebook page has been taken down. As of 31 May, its website however suggests it is still open for business.

The firm promotes itself as a low-volume

builder with 46 years of experience.

Customers were plunged into turmoil in late March when Porter Davis went bust, leaving more than 1500 unfinished homes in Victoria. Other builders such as Interface Constructions have also since collapsed.

The State Government recently announced one-off compensation for 560 Porter Davis customers who signed their contracts and

paid their deposits, but where Porter Davis did not take out Domestic Building Insurance (DBI), in breach of its obligations.

Grant Thornton Australia was appointed as the liquidators of 14 Porter Davis companies.

With 470 employees, Porter Davis had forecast $555 million in revenue for the 2023 financial year but there was “no option” but to liquidate, a Grant Thornton spokesperson stated.

“The extremely challenging environment for residential home building has directly contributed to the PDH Group’s financial position, with rising input costs, supply chain delays, labour shortages, and a drop in demand for new homes in 2023 impacting the Group’s liquidity.“

Rawdon Hill’s liquidator did not return Star News’s calls by deadline.

A Rawdon Hill home design featured on the builder’s website.

LOCAL NEWS EVERY WEEK

Jail for PSO biter

• Botanic Ridge Coles Botanic Ridge Village - 10 Hummingbird Drive

• Cannons Creek Five Ways General Store

2040 South Gippsland Hwy

• Clyde Coles Express Service Station Corner Grices Road and Cranbourne-Berwick Road

• Clyde Clyde Village Store 18 Railway Road (Cnr of Oroya Grove)

• Clyde North Selandra Rise Retirement Village 5 Harmony Chase

• Clyde North Selandra Community Hub 7-9 Selandra Boulevard

• Clyde North Selandra Rise Shopping Centre Selandra Boulevard & Linsell Boulevard

• Clyde North Lifestyle Berwick Waters 10 Skylark Boulevard

• Cranbourne Cranbourne Library 65 BerwickCranbourne Road

• Cranbourne Cranbourne

Basketball and Sports Centre 65

Berwick - Cranbourne Road

• Cranbourne Life Be In It 65

Berwick - Cranbourne Road

• Cranbourne Coles Express 1120 Cnr Sladen Street & Cemetery Roads

• Cranbourne Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club 1 Codrington Street

• Cranbourne BP Service Station 1025-1045 Frankston Cranbourne Road

• Cranbourne Cranbourne Bowls Club 5 Grant Street

• Cranbourne Cranbourne Newsagency 105 High Street

• Cranbourne Coles Cranbourne High Street (Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre)

• Cranbourne United Service Station 183/187 Sladen Street

• Cranbourne Cranbourne RSL 1475 South Gippsland Highway

• Cranbourne City of Casey Shop 156 South Gippsland Highway (Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre)

• Cranbourne Coles Springhill Springhill Drive (Springhill Shopping Centre)

• Cranbourne Cranbourne Community House 49-51

Valepark Crescent

• Cranbourne East Balla Ball

Community Centre 65 BerwickCranbourne Road

• Cranbourne East Shopping On Clyde 280 Berwick-Cranbourne Road

• Cranbourne East Blue Hills Rise 200-240 BerwickCranbourne Road

• Cranbourne East Hunt Club Shopping Centre 1 Linsell Boulevard

• Cranbourne North The Avenue Shopping Centre Cnr William Thwaites Boulevard & Thompsons Road

• Cranbourne North Merinda Park Learning & Community Centre 141-147 Endeavour drive

• Cranbourne North Apco

Cranbourne North 315 Narre

Warren - Cranbourne Road

• Cranbourne North BP North

Cranbourne 399 Narre WarrenCranbourne Road

• Cranbourne North Woolworths

Cranbourne North South Gippsland Hwy & Thompsons Road

• Cranbourne North Thompson Parkway Newsagency South Gippsland Hwy & Thompsons Road

• Cranbourne North IGA

Supermarket - Eve Estate Shop 1/2-10 William Thwaites Boulevard

• Cranbourne West Apco Service Station 810 DandenongHastings Road

• Cranbourne West Coles

Cranbourne West Duff Street (Sandhurst Centre)

• Cranbourne West Green Plaza News and Lotto Duff Street (Sandhurst Centre)

• Cranbourne West IGA Clarinda Park 85 Everlasting Boulevard

• Cranbourne West BP Service Station 910 Thompsons Road

• Hampton Park Shopping Centre 55 Hallam Road Hampton Park

• Lynbrook Lynbrook Community Centre 2 Lynbrook Boulevard & Harris Street

• Lynbrook Lynbrook

Newsagency 75 Lynbrook Boulevard (Lynbrook Village Shopping Centre)

• Lyndhurst Liberty 210 Dandenong Hastings Road

• Lyndhurst Caltex 945

Thompsons Road & Lyndhurst Boulevard

• Lyndhurst Marriot Waters Shopping Centre Thompsons Road & Marriott Boulevard

• Lyndhurst Subway Restaurant Shop 10-18 Thompsons Road & Marriott Boulevard (Marriot Waters Shopping Centre)

• Lyndhurst Woolworths

Supermarket Thompsons Road & Marriott Boulevard (Marriot Waters Shopping Centre)

• Narre Warren South Ritchies Amberly Park 245 Ormond Road (Amberly Park Shopping Centre)

• Narre Warren South Coles 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road (Casey Central Shopping Centre)

• Narre Warren South Casey News and Lotto Shop 156, 400 Narre Warren - Cranbourne Road (Casey Central Shopping Centre)

• Skye BP Service Station Western Port Highway & Hall Road

ADVERTISE UNTIL SOLD*

$

•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.

ECONOMY TILING

ESCORT LINDA

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexualservices.

V Pets & Services

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

Print and Online Sales Executive Star News Group

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:

• Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones

• Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets

• Excellent listening skills

• Accuracy and attention to detail

• Effective time management to meet deadlines

• Ability to operate in a team

• Demonstrates initiative and flexibility

• Effective oral and written communication

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide 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

Part-Time Telesales Representative

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

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SPORT

Loyal Luke hits 150

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Hampton Park stalwart Luke O’Brien played his 150th game in the Redbacks’ win over Skye on Saturday.

These milestones are often a great cause for reflection of the highlights.

That a player grew up at a club and has become a loyal teammate is a recycled phrase, but is one especially befitting of O’Brien.

The son of club legend Mick and nephew of Shane, also a premiership player, he was born into a struggling club but has always been a picture of joy and respect.

One Hampton Park person spoken to by Star News for this story quipped that the club probably wouldn’t exist without Mick and others would share his sentiment.

Luke’s one of few Redbacks left who came through the junior program, playing more than 140 games there.

Often, he would play multiple games on a weekend as he was capable of playing up an age-bracket.

Friendships were forged and memories were made as he moulded an identity as a strong and fair player who could compete above his height.

By the age of 16, he was a regular fixture in the seniors and has hardly missed since.

At the end of 2011, there was an exodus of Redbacks which fast-tracked some kids into the firsts lineup.

It led to some soul-crushing losses in 2012, including by 260 points and 223 points in rounds three and four of the now defunct Casey Cardinia Football League.

The club finished the year with a percentage of 16.25.

“It does beat you down but it builds character and you come out stronger,” O’Brien said.

“At one stage it didn’t look like we were going to get a side up and that’s the only way I was ever going to leave.

“Seeing the mate-ship of my father and un-

cle motivated me to stick at it.

“We weren’t winning on the field but it felt like we were winning off it with the close group we had.”

The dark days have had a silver-lining more recently, though, with a series of experienced players, including O’Brien, having plenty of footy still ahead of them to lead an exciting group.

A hardy halfback, he’s been an off-field staple in recent years, with his coaching of the juniors with Nathan Carver for a period exemplifying his love for developing the club.

“There’s nothing better than seeing juniors back in the senior jumper,” O’Brien said.

“It puts a smile on my face and all the supporters love seeing it so I’m always hoping

Big win for Girls Rays

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Third time lucky.

Dandenong fell short against competition pace setters Eastern Ranges in a pre-season practice match.

The Rays looked like they’d lost a yard from that loss, annihilated by 46 points when they played Eastern for the first time officially in 2023.

more will come through.”

A 2019 premiership in Southern Division Three has been the clear career highlight, O’Brien admitting it felt “unnatural” to have such success given the dark recent history.

Hayden Stanton’s arrival as coach has lifted Hampton Park to a new level in 2023 and O’Brien is a key cog in defensive 50.

The Spiders are considered by some to be East Brighton’s biggest challenger in Division Two, with the club having been competitive since crossing to the Southern League.

“The mentality of playing away this year (with Booth Reserve unavailable) has added something – we’ve made our own excitement and had fun. I’m confident for what lies ahead.”

Cranny show no mercy to Springy Districts

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Cranbourne has dispatched Springvale Districts at a typically windy Livingston Reserve.

In what was an opportunity for the Demons to compete with a premiership contender, they had the wind in the first quarter but were still acclimatising to the ground.

Daniel Helmore kicked Springvale Districts’ only goal of the first quarter as the forwards emptied out and allowed him to get one-out over the back.

He bobbed up for some moments but largely Cranbourne’s intercepting work, along with midfield ascendancy, prevented Springvale Districts from ever seriously threatening.

Eagles captain Brandon Osborne took care of Matt Wetering, who was limping in the second half after a minor rolled ankle.

The former Collingwood VFL player managed just one goal for the afternoon and the attack clearly lacked a secondary presence.

Osborne’s fellow defender Andrew Green provided run, rebound and excitement.

A Northern Territory teenager, he represented the NT Thunder Academy in the Talent League last month and unsuccessfully trialled for a position on Oakleigh’s list in preseason.

He’ll be at Livingston for the rest of the season. Zak Roscoe put in another shift to lead the midfield, his five goals reward for contest-tocontest running.

Marc Holt chipped in with three and set a few more up for his team while Kirk Dickson was the focal point with two goals.

Forward pressure and discipline were among the focuses coming into the game off the back of a surprise loss to Port Melbourne last week.

Dingley, meanwhile, put it together for four quarters against Chelsea Heights.

The Dingoes were led, as usual, by the strong midfield including Nathan Freeman who stuffed the stats sheet with 44 touches

Jarryd Barker has been a welcome addition to the Cranbourne lineup this week. 337182

and two goals.

Results R7: Cheltenham 17.13 115 v Mordialloc 13.6 84, Cranbourne 14.14 98 v Springvale

Districts 5.5 35, St Paul’s McKinnon 8.20 68 v Port Melbourne Colts 8.12 60, Dingley 17.22

124 v Chelsea Heights 9.6 60, Bentleigh 17.13 115 v St Kilda City 17.10 112.

Ladder: Dingley 24, Cheltenham 24, Cranbourne 20, St Paul’s McKinnon 20, Port Melbourne Colts 16, Springvale Districts 16, Bentleigh 8, St Kilda City 4, Chelsea Heights 4, Mordialloc 4.

Fixture R8: Chelsea Heights v Bentleigh, Mordialloc v Cranbourne, St Kilda City v Cheltenham, Dingley v St Paul’s McKinnon, Springvale Districts v Port Melbourne Colts.

But on Sunday, Josh Moore’s team controlled terms and consigned a talentladen Ranges outfit to their first loss of the season. After a tight first half where the sides scored a goal apiece, Dandenong were far too good when the game opened up, winning 8.9 57 to 4.3 27.

Bottom-ager Kayla Dalgleish scored two crucial third-quarter goals as the Rays opened up the lead, and she also spent some time in the midfield.

In her first Talent League game since a nasty concussion in round two, Meg Robertson finished with 22 possessions and oozed class in tricky conditions.

Likewise Jemma Reynolds, who was thrown onto the ball in the wet given her noted cleanliness. Elli Symonds continued her dominance from before the break as a bottom-aged ruck, amassing a game-high 13 hitouts against a formidable Eastern duo.

After a heavy emphasis was put on top prospect Alysia Pissano the last time these two teams squared off, coach Josh Moore backed his girls’ system.

Five girls got the education piece of playing on her and did well, not only quelling her influence but exerting pressure and having the game on Dandenong’s terms enabling the hosts to shine.

Leading by 13 at three-quarter-time, overager Brooke Smith, who is among a host of players who gotVFLW experience during the community break, kicked a goal early in the last to put the result beyond doubt. Meanwhile, Gippsland’s girls were overrun in the last quarter against Calder.

After keeping Calder to just one goal up until three-quarter-time, Gippsland conceded 5.1 and couldn’t score in the last quarter against an opposition expected to wallop them.

Gippsland’s outside skill was as silky as it has been all season. The Power has been competitive on the inside so far but generally comprehensively beaten when it has broken away, but Saturday bucked that trend.

Once they’ve defended, Gippsland have been attacking much better - but ran out of gas in the last quarter when a desperate Calder threw everything at them. Although she finished with only six touches, Sophie Scalzo was relevant inside 50, kicking a goal and playing with freedom having come off an injuryinterrupted preseason.

Youngster Ella Stoddart’s rebound and long kick helped Gippsland clear the backline and she looks set to become a crucial player for the team across the next two years. Shanae Hawker’s grit and Alisha Molesworth’s willingness to do it both ways and find a lot of the pill was also important to the team’s competitiveness.

Dandenong celebrate its big win over Eastern. 338067 Picture: JAZZ BENNETT

Picture: GARY SISSONS

So too has Dillan Bass!

Luke O’Brien after Hampton Park’s win over rivals Doveton this year. 333278

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Luke O’Brien takes a mark 180269

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Luke O’Brien kicks it forward. 282027

Dangerous Spiders

By Jonty Ralphsmith

A six goal opening quarter has lifted Hampton Park to victory over Skye by 31 points in a highscoring clash.

Kicking with the wind in the first quarter, the Redbacks went into the first break with a 37-point lead and held on to sing the song in veteran Luke O’Brien’s 150th game.

Full forward Nathan Carver kicked 2.9 as no one could match his aerial impact, but he will be ruing inaccuracy.

Carver has 18 goals for the season and in a team bereft of height, he offers physicality but could be the leading goalscorer in the competition if not for a couple of wayward afternoons.

Trent Thomas kicked five goals and gathered 32 disposals to lead the victory while five others scored multiples as Makaio Haywood ran rampant in the midfield.

With Kyle Hendy and Dylan Morris both missing, along with Jesse Naylor, having a bank of contributors to the scoreboard would have been a pleasing result.

The primary concern for Hampton Park was the leaky defence which gave up 15 goals in the last three quarters, including a host of rebounding slingshots from the kick-in.

Joel McConville was typically strong for Skye while Brett Dawson played the best game of his season.

Doveton got its third consecutive victory and fourth of the season, completing the tough assignment of beating Caulfield on their deck.

Cam Williamson kicked five of his team’s 15 goals while Jake Basa was hard-nosed as Dylan Chapman fed it down the midfielders’ throats.

Player-coach Michael Cardamone has been coaching from the bench in recent weeks to steady the ship and give him a greater look at the state of play.

It’s led to better results as the team seems to be building into form after admitting there may have been some sense of complacency in a 1-3 first month of the season.

As well as Chapman, the return of Dylan Bowman has given them a winger that holds their shape and plays the role well with his return crucial to the turning of the tide.

Cardamone is expected to rejoin the brigade of small forwards inside 50 in the coming weeks which will be a welcome addition for a side that has just two players in the top 40 goal

kickers of the competition.

James Pattinson, a player capable of contributing more than a goal a game, has also been missing recently with a syndesmosis injury.

It’s contributed to an average score of 66 this season – exactly 30 points fewer than last year’s average.

East Brighton was kept to its lowest score of the year by Keysborough.

It was an impressive outing by the Burra in the toughest test in Southern Division Two footy, with the inexperienced senior lineup coming as close as anyone has to beating East Brighton.

It was a low-scoring scrap for much of the day, before six goals in the second part of the last quarter blew the margin out by 46 points.

“We weren’t beaten by points, we were beaten by minutes,” said coach Chris Smith.

The visitors stuck to a simple game plan, getting numbers into the middle of the ground to stymie the Vampires’ ball movement.

That allowed them to flood the defence

When going the other way, Keysborough targeted repeat stoppages and backed their forwards to make a contest long.

Going in with lots of seconds and thirds players gave Keysborough a wide-eyed innocence in the clash as they were oblivious to their opponents’ reputations.

Highlighting Keysborough’s dominance for large parts was a 26-8 inside 50 count in the second quarter, but they just couldn’t put it on the scoreboard.

But the late fadeout can also be attributed to the stretched lineup.

Cooper Shepard played an important role inside 50, while the coach’s son, Lachie Smith, brought pressure and aerial presence on debut and big boy Nathan Paine did his job.

Matthew Beer is another who has stood up in recent weeks.

Results R7: Skye 15.10 100 v Hampton Park 19.17 131, East Malvern 20.17 137 v Black Rock 5.8 38, East Brighton 10.6 66 v Keysborough 3.2 20, Caulfield 8.4 52 v Doveton Doves 15.9 99, Murrumbeena 20.16 136 v Highett 11.15 81. Ladder: East Brighton 28, Murrumbeena 24, Hampton Park 20, Doveton Doves 16, East Malvern 12, Highett 12, Caulfield 12, Skye 12, Keysborough 4, Black Rock 0. Fixture R8: Black Rock v East Brighton, Skye v Highett, East Malvern v Murrumbeena, Caulfield v Hampton Park, Keysborough v Doveton.

Magical Mendis switches to Coomoora

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Former Sri Lankan first class cricketer Nuwan Mendis has crossed to Coomoora for the upcoming cricket season.

Mendis was a dominant player for Springvale in the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) Turf 3 competition last season, with eight half-centuries and 22 wickets across 13 First XI and three t20 matches for the club.

His arrival puts the 2022-23 runners up in a good position to go one better next season.

The Roos lost the grand final to a talentladen Dandenong West but will go into this season as early favourites.

The relegated Doveton will be undergoing a changing of the guard with skipper Nathan Wilson and allrounder Ryan Hendy both retiring last season.

Fellow top-four team Fountain Gate was hot and cold in 2022-23 and will be under the tutelage of a new coach, while Mendis leaves a massive hole in Springvale’s lineup.

Coomoora will also gain Lalanka Dhanasekara Mudiyanselage from Springvale, further strengthening them at the expense of their rivals.

He chipped in with some handy overs and cameos with the bat last year.

The Roos will be under new leadership this season, with coach Andy O’Meara stepping aside to be replaced by Nick Suppree.

Suppree kicked off last season with a blazing century against Dandenong West and is a star batter, but missed much of the season with an ACL injury.

He is not expected to play the early part of the season.

O’Meara will remain involved at the club.

Dees down

By Marcus Uhe

A second-half fade-out against Werribee saw the Casey Demons fall out of the VFL’s top four on Saturday afternoon. A neck-and-neck battle for the duration of the day, the Tigers kicked six of the final seven goals of the contest, including the only three of the fourth term, to finish 28-point winners 16.10 106 to Casey’s 12.6 78 at Werribee’s Avalon Airport Oval.

Goals to Matthew Jefferson and Jake Melksham in the opening three minutes of the game gave the Demons a quick start, but by the halfway mark of the quarter the home side had evened the ledger.

It would be a sign of things to come, as neither side was able to steal a march on their opponent until the final term when Werribee pulled away.

A three-goal run at the end of the second quarter in favour of the Tigers was the longest streak of consecutive goals that either team was able to achieve for the first half, but their dominance in that period only saw the Demons trail by six points at the long break.

For that, they have Bailey Laurie and Andy Moniz-Wakefield to thank, after the small forward sharked an overhead handball from Laurie to convert a tough snap in traffic just before the siren.

Concerningly for senior coach Taylor Whitford and his brigade of talls, two of those three consecutive goals came from contested marks to Werribee key forwards, who showcased their aerial prowess.

Five goals each in the third quarter continued the rise and fall of the seesaw, but the Tigers’ midfield begun to grasp the ascendency.

Without James Jordon, James Harmes or Luke Dunstan, the Demons were short three prime-movers in the middle of the ground, but critically, the Demons were more efficient going inside the forward 50.

AFL-listed talent in Josh Schache, Joel Smith and Jake Melksham all hit the scoreboard to ensure the reigning premiers remained in the hunt.

But Melksham’s goal in the shadows of three-quarter-time would be their final major of the afternoon.

The Tigers were wasteful in the final quarter with a run of five straight behinds but broke the goal-scoring drought in the 14th minute through Bior Malual.

The Demons’ defence was resolute but became overwhelmed with the number of opportunities on goal that the home side created, and were unable to sustain their defensive effort for long enough.

Weight of numbers told in the second half for Casey, who found themselves on the wrong side of a lopsided inside 50 count (43-54) and were out-hunted around the ball, finishing -83 on the disposal count and -17 for tackles.

It means a third loss in the last five outings for the reigning premier, who has been unable to maintain the rage of an undefeated six-game run to begin the season.

They’ll fly north next weekend to battle Southport in a rematch of the 2022 grand final.

Picture: ROB CAREW

Andy Moniz-Wakefield has been a solid contributor for Casey throughout 2023.

325648 Picture: ROB CAREW

Nathan Carver almost had himself a day out for the Spiders. 334586

SPORT

Cavs downed in OT

By Marcus Uhe

Casey Cavalier hearts collectively broke on Saturday night following a three-point loss in overtime to Ballarat.

Trailing by three with seven seconds remaining, Mason Perry found Blake Taylor wide open on the left wing, after a clever play that appeared designed for Patrick Emilien - saw Taylor lose his defender in traffic when the ball was inbounded.

The perfect pass from Perry landed perfectly in Taylor’s awaiting hands, before he turned, set his feet and nailed the shot without any hesitation.

An inventive play after the ensuing timeout saw Ballarat get a great look under the rim, but Tyler Rudolph was unable to make the angles work in his favour and missed the rim entirely, sending the game to overtime with the scores tied at 85.

A poor final minute of the opening quarter saw the Cavs slump to a 10-point deficit, having matched the Minors for much of the period.

Needing a lift in the second, they found an x-factor off the bench in Emilien.

The 23-year-old scored 16 points in the second quarter after coming off the bench to add a real spark to the Cavs’ line-up.

He made four three-pointers and added a huge dunk, after grabbing a steal and running the length of the court.

They finished the half with a three-point lead, setting the table for an enthralling second half.

Both sides remained neck-and-neck with one-another for the remainder of the game, with Casey’s seven point lead midway through

the last quarter the largest the margin grew to in either team’s favour.

While Ballarat struggled to make shots from the midrange, they were deadly from behind the three-point line, shooting 63 per cent during the second half compared to 25 from inside.

The Miners finished the contest with a far superior three-point percentage (52.6 to 35.7), and through Rudolph they continued their hot shooting in overtime.

Rudolph scored eight of the Miners’ nine points in overtime, and while he had a steady hand, the Cavaliers were clearly nervous.

They missed their first three shots of overtime and didn’t score until two minutes into the period.

Emilien left his hot shooting hand in regu-

lation time, missing all three shots that he took in the period and committing one turnover.

He missed a floater with 45 seconds on the clock to tie the scores at 93, but a miss from Ballarat at the other end meant they remained in the hunt.

With six seconds on the clock, Taylor drove to his right and missed a layup before fouling on the layup attempt.

The Cavs were forced to foul in order to attempt to regain the ball, but a side-line infraction from Emilien gifted Ballarat a technical foul shot.

The recipient missed the shot, but the next foul finally put the visitors on the free-throw line.

Jack Davidson missed the first but made the second, giving Casey one second on the clock to shoot another three to tie the game.

Jack Perry inbounded to Djitte at halfway but the pass was too tall even for the giant centre, and slipped through his hands out of bounds.

Emilien finished with 34 points and five rebounds on Cavaliers debut on 60 per cent shooting, making the most of his debut in navy blue.

Djitte did what Djitte does, too, recording a huge double-double with 15 points and 17 rebounds.

The women’s contest was not as nail-biting, losing by 13 in regulation.

The Cavs were outscored by 10 in the first half and never recovered, losing the rebound battle by 11 and assists by 9.

Rachel Bell led the Cavs in scoring with 19.

A pair of road games await next weekend, as they travel to Eltham and Bendigo.

Blazing Cannons fire their opening shot

By Jonty Ralphsmith

The Casey Cannons men’s side have their first win of the season, getting it done 4-1 overWerribee.

Young striker Nick McPhee scored the last two crucial goals to make a certainty of the result.

Those were his first two scores of the season after he emerged as an impressive prospect last year and it’s hoped the weekend game can turbocharge the remainder of his campaign.

Goal keeper Adam Wadley was outstanding in the last period, leading the defence in the last quarter as Werribee came hard.

Among the 10 circle entries were six penalty corners but the hosts were unable to close the margin.

It’s a result that the Cannons have been confident is around the corner despite the difficult start to the season.

Having shown glimpses in recent weeks, they were able to keep it together for longer on the day which gave Elliott Stephens, Gurpreet Singh and Harry Coster their first win with the club. The returning Josh Watson also had his first win since being back.

The Cannons came in with an emphasis on process over outcome, the coach instilling confidence they were playing well and would be able to turn it into a positive result if they didn’t force the issue.

Skipper Matt Light found the back of the net 10 minutes in to allow the visitors to be frontrunners for the entire afternoon.

Craig Moore followed suit early in the second period with a tomahawk before Werribee closed the margin.

But McPhee pounced just minutes later to keep the margin at an arm’s length.

Lachie Daniel was productive in the backline, playing with an attacking flair, while Blake Edwards and Craig Moore provided leadership up forward.

Meanwhile, the women were led to a 4-0 win by Emma Harris, who scored three goals.

Werribee came out physically, as anticipated, but once the game settled into a rhythm, it was on the Cannons’ terms.

Third quarter turnovers forced a reset at the final break, but renewed poise and composure ensured Casey maintained the ascendancy.

As well as Harris, who could have had even more than her three goals, Gippsland’s Lean-

Wet weather plays havoc in the BDTA

By Sports Desk

The weather continues to impact the Berwick and District Tennis Association with a full round of matches played on Saturday before the heavens opened and washed-out Sunday’s round of play.

Pakenham and Drouin continue to lead the way in the Osborne Shield, with Pakenham having a big win over Cranbourne and Drouin winning its top-four battle with Beaconsfield Blue.

The top-four at this early stage of the season is Pakenham, Drouin, Beaconsfield Blue and Narre Warren North. Osborne Shield

Drouin 2 4:28 v 1 2:21 Beaconsfield Blue, Pakenham 3 6:40 v 0 1:25 Cranbourne, Officer Blue 0 0:15 v 3 6:36 Narre Warren North, Beaconsfield Gold 3 6:42 v 0 2:41 Sandhurst.

Section 1 Rubbers

Berwick 2 5:39 v 1 2:19 Beaconsfield, Narre Warren Forfeit to Officer Blue, Cranbourne 0 0:13 v 3 6:36 Harkaway.

Section 2 Rubbers

Berwick White 1 3:33 v 2 5:46 Upper Beaconsfield, Pakenham 2 4:35 v 1 3:29

Clyde, Cranbourne 1 3:37 v 2 5:40 Berwick Blue, Narre Warren North v Narre Warren (Missing Results).

Section 3 Rubbers

Berwick Blue 0 2:34 v 3 6:46 Narre Warren North, Cranbourne 1:23 v 3 6:40

Clyde White, Clyde Green 2 5:39 v 1 2:26 Berwick Black, Bunyip 1 2:20 v 2 4:28 Berwick White.

Section 4 Rubbers

Clyde Blue 2 5:37 v 1 2:30 Cranbourne White, Cranbourne Purple 0 1:31 v 3 6:45

NarreWarren South, Beaconsfield Gold 1 3:35 v 2 5:40 Cranbourne Red.

Section 5 Rubbers Narre Warren North Black v Cockatoo

(Missing Results), Narre Warren 0 2:40 v 3 6:48 Cranbourne Black, Cranbourne Yellow 2 4:31 v 1 2:20 NarreWarren North Red.

Section 6 Singles

Berwick White 4:33 v 4:27 Upper Beaconsfield, Pakenham 2:31 v 6:43 Hallam, Tooradin 6:41 v 2:33 Clyde.

Section 7 Singles

Berwick Blue 6:44 v 2:19 Narre Warren North, Officer Red 2:30 v 6:48 Officer Blue, Cranbourne 5:45 v 3:34 Berwick White, Beaconsfield 2:26 v 6:42 Narre Warren.

dra McLauchlan started fullback and rotated into the middle and Bec Cheater also stood out in the win.

CANNONS WOMEN

Results: WestVic 3 v PEGS 1, North West Lightning 1 v Knox 4, Yarra Valley 5 v Brunswick 1, Casey 4 v Werribee 0, Mornington Peninsula 1 v Monash University 1.

Ladder: Mornington Peninsula 16, Yarra Valley 15, Casey 15, Monash University 14, WestVic 10, PEGS 9, Knox 9, Werribee 9, Brunswick 3, North West 0.

Fixture: WestVic v Werribee, Brunswick v Mornington Peninsula, Knox v Casey, Monash University v North West Lightning, PEGS v Yarra Valley.

CANNONS MEN

Results: Casey 4 v Werribee 1, North West Lightning 4 v Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 3, Yarra Valley 1 v Brunswick 2, Old Xaverians 3 v PEGS 1, Melbourne Sikhs United 4 v Monash University 1.

Ladder: Melbourne Sikhs United 18, North West Lightning 16, Old Xaverians 16, Brunswick 13, PEGS 12, Monash University 10, Werribee 5, Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation 4, Casey 3, Yarra Valley 3.

Fixture: Brunswick v Melbourne Sikhs Unit-

ed, Eastern Christian Hockey Organisation v Casey, Monash University v North West Lightning, PEGS v Yarra Valley, Old

Section 8 Singles

Berwick 5:37 v 3:20 Upper Beaconsfield, Narre Warren 5:40 v 3:33 Cranbourne, Officer 4:38 v 4:38 Fountain Gate Green.

Section 9 Singles

Narre Warren North v Beaconsfield

(Missing Results), Clyde 6:46 v 2:27 Narre Warren South, Tooradin 4:28 v 4:32 Officer.

Players in the BDTA enjoyed play on Saturday morning before the rains came

293980

and washed-out Sunday’s round of matches.

Picture: ROB CAREW

Xaverians v Werribee.

Matt Light opened the scoring for the Cannons. 330473

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Emma Harris scored twice on the weekend.

Stephanie Blicavs scored 18 points for the Cavaliers on Saturday. 333279

Picture: ROB CAREW