School holiday activities at Pakenham library saw local tykes connect with culture on Bunurong land on Monday 25 September.
Celebrating Indigenous culture and language, a Welcome to Country, traditional smoking ceremony, mural painting and story time helped educate library goers about First Nations practices.
A local professor has hit out at the discourse surrounding the Voice, calling the conversation “very disappointing”, asking voters not to base their decision on lies or scare campaigns.
AsSouthEastresidentspreparetovoteinthe upcoming referendum on altering the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice - with pre-polling centres to open in Pakenham and surrounds from Monday 2 October - Federation University’s Berwick
campus hosted a conversation on the vote.
The conversation, between Federation University Australia Associate Deputy ViceChancellor Reconciliation Professor Andrew Gunstone and Yorta Yorta man and First Nations Foundations chairperson Ian Hamm, saw about 15 community members attend on Friday 22 September.
Speaking to Star News before the event, Professor Gunstone said the conversation around the vote so far had been upsetting to see.
“It’s about recognition and it’s about listening,” he said.
“There’s a lot of confusion.
“I think it’s going to be an uphill battle.”
Despite the negativity surrounding the vote, Professor Gunstone said it was positive to see engagement in Aboriginal affairs, with recent ‘Yes’ rallies in Melbourne and across the country among examples of positive engagement.
“What I want to see for this country is more non-Indigenous people engaging with Indigenous issues,” he said.
The work of reconciliation will continue past the referendum, he said.
“(People) shouldn’t base their decision on a
lie or on a fear campaign.”
Professor Gunstone said it would be a hard truth for Aboriginal people to face if the vote was lost.
“My heart will break for them,” he said.
Speaking before the event to Star News, Federation University Engineering lecturer and community advocate Harpreet Singh Kandra said he has also been busy teaching culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities across the South East about the impact of the vote.
Continued page 2
Early voting centres for the 2023 Referendum open from 2 October, including several polling booths in Pakenham and surrounds.
Residents who are unable to vote on polling day can place an early vote in the two weeks leading up to the official referendum date, on 14 October.
A series of centres will be open for constituents, including Pakenham Uniting Church, Akoonah Park Centre in Berwick, Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre in Cranbourne North and St Paul’s Old Year 9 Centre inWarragul.
Pre-poll centres will open from 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 4pm Saturday.
On referendum day itself, local schools and public halls will be open from 8am to 6pm for citizens to cast their votes.
For the full list of polling places in your area, head to aec.gov.au/referendums/voting.
htm#start
The referendum will ask all citizens whether they would support a proposed alteration to the constitution to recognise the First People of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait IslanderVoice.
The alteration would add a new chapter and section to the Constitution which would allow the establishment of an advisory body called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
The Voice would be made up Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who may make representations to Parliament on Indigenous matters, from which parliament can create laws.
A record 97.7 per cent of eligible Australians
are enrolled to vote in the referendum, representing an increase of 447,447 people since last year’s federal election.
More than 8.4 million people on the electoral roll were not enrolled when the last referendum was held in 1999 – this is more than 47 per cent of the electoral roll.
The 8.4 million people includes 6.7 million people who were under 18 (or not born) at the time as well as 1.7 million other people who are new to the roll since 1999 - many of whom are new Australian citizens.
Australian Electoral Commissioner, Tom Rogers said such a complete electoral roll is a result of years of hard work by the AEC.
“With many nations around the world campaigning to get even three quarters of their population enrolled to vote, this result is a
Police are investigating reports of a robbery that occurred on Rix Road in Officer on Friday 15 September.
It is believed the victim was approached by two males who made threats towards him and stole his phone at about 3pm.
Police want to speak with two males who they believe can assist with their inquiries.
continuing source of Australian democratic pride,” Mr Rogers said.
“In between the announcement of the referendum date and close of rolls, approximately 79,000 people were added to the roll with 376,000 other eligible Australians updating their details.”
“The youth enrolment rate has also increased to 91.4 per cent which means approximately 1.8 million 18-24 year olds are ready to vote and have their say in their first referendum.”
First Nations enrolment is at the highest rate it has ever been, sitting at 94.1 per cent.
For more information about the Voice Referendum, head to aec.gov.au/referendums/ learn/the-question.html
The first is described as being 5’8 or 5’9 in height, thin, with dark brown/ black dreadlocks, with some bleached blonde/orange colour on the tips.
He was wearing a school uniform, white runners and roughly 16 years old.
The second is described as being about 6’ in height , thin, short frizzy hair hidden under a blue school cap, wearing a navy blazer and suit pants, white runners with a grey Nike written on them.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit on 5945 2500, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at crimestoppersvic. com.au and quote incident number 230323779.
From page 1
“Nine out of 10 people have no idea about the Voice,” he said.
“This is an issue they have not connected with.
“They can certainly relate to it.”
Mr Hamm said the decision the Australian population would face on 14 October was a simple one.
“This is not about the Constitution,” he said.
“It is not about detail.
“What this is about, at its core, is who we are as a nation.
“By and large, all we want is a fair go in our country.”
Mr Hamm said the Voice was simply a mechanism to allow Aboriginal people to speak.
“We don’t get to talk about what we contribute to this nation,” he said.
“We don’t get to talk about our hopes, dreams and aspirations.”
For more information about the upcoming referendum, visit aec.gov.au/referendums
Old sleepers on the Pakenham Line are being sent up into the hills, as they are being generously repurposed for a large community project restoring the old Healesville Railway.
The Pakenham level crossing removal project has recycled more than 5000 concrete sleepers and associated ‘jewellery’ – metal clips which connect rail to the sleepers – with a mega delivery from Pakenham to the Yarra Valley Railway in Tarrawarra.
The Yarra Valley Railway (YVR) is a local community organisation run by around 500 volunteers who are currently restoring the former railway line between Healesville andYarra Glen, which ran freight and passenger trains from 1889 until the last service in 1980.
The group’s work saw passenger train services from Healesville Station to Tarrawarra Estate re-commence in 2010 – the first passenger train service in over 30 years.
The volunteers are now focused on restoring the remainder of the rail corridor, from Tarrawarra Estate to Yarra Glen, a distance of approximately 10km.
The Yarra Valley Railway volunteers receive surplus construction material from projects all over Victoria and store them at the yards in Tarrawarra.
Volunteer Caleb Fielding has been with the organisation for 4 years and finds the work incredibly rewarding.
“I’ve been volunteering with Yarra Valley Railway in our reconstruction project and mechanical maintenance teams since 2019,” he says “I feel lucky to be part of our team, working on Australia’s largest volunteer infrastructure project.”
The sleepers from Pakenham are being progressively installed at Tarrawarra to create part of the new section of track.
On a good day, the volunteers can lay around 150m of track, but it’s slow
and steady work.
“We’re grateful to receive these sleepers from Pakenham, an important contribution to this great community project,” says Caleb.
In coming years, the new Tarrawarra Station will be located here, which will be carefully crafted from part of the former Mooroolbark Station building, currently being restored by Box Hill Institute students at its Lilydale Campus.
Once complete, it will be moved to theYarra Valley Railway, where it will start its new life as Tarrawarra Station.
Thestationrestorationprojectprovidesstudents with an opportunity to learn construction and planning processes, as well as how to
recreate decorative timbers and joinery.
The heritage station, built in 1887, was relocated as part of works to remove the Manchester Road level crossing and build the new Mooroolbark Station in 2021.
The concrete sleepers were moved from the former railway sidings located next to Pakenham Station, where a recent construction blitz saw up to 500 people each day working across the Pakenham site.
This year, crews at Pakenham have replaced 7000 tonnes of ballast under the rails, and removed more than 7km of old rail track, while installing new track at the eastern and western ends of the site.
With work well underway on the Pakenham
level crossing removal project, which will see level crossings gone from Main Street, McGregor Road and Racecourse Road and new stations built at Pakenham and East Pakenham, the team has up-cycled railway infrastructure across the state.
Last year, 1600 wooden sleepers from Pakenham were delivered to the Walhalla Goldfields Railway for the ongoing track maintenance of their narrow-gauge heritage railway.
Over the coming months, the Pakenham team will continue installing concrete segments which make up the new elevated rail line, then they’ll shift their focus to completing the new stations ahead of opening next year.
We’re excited to announce that Gavin Staindl is opening up Ray White Officer! After selling houses in the growing suburb for 10+ years and securing the spot of #1 Agent in the Ray White Vic/Tas group, Mr Staindl says that “Officer has grown so quickly and deserves a high profile agency”.
The yellow door will officially open October 2nd.
“Come say hi. We are a fun bunch to be around and we’d love to see you soon.”
What do you love most about your job?
I enjoy working with students, staff and the community to build a positive school environment in which students can strive to reach their potential.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
Many people are surprised to know that I love electronic music!
What classes did you teach before becoming principal?
ImostlytaughtGrade3and4,butIhavetaught from Grade 1 to Grade 6.
Looking back at when you first entered your current role, what advice would you have given yourself?
The principal role is complex and challenging. It is important to be true to your beliefs about education and persist to see the outcomes of your vision.
What has been your most memorable moment?
It is difficult to pinpoint one moment. I enjoy seeing students proud of their achievements and to see their confidence in themselves grow. What event, past or present or future, would you like to witness?
I am a big fan of history, so to have witnessed past historical events would have been fascinating, such as theWorldWars.
What subject did you enjoy at school?
History.
Which five dinner guests, dead or alive would you invite to dinner?
David Hume, Noam Chomsky, Jeffrey Sachs, Carl Sagan and Robert Greene.
If you had to compete on Masterchef, what dish would you cook?
I can do a pretty good Chicken Tikka Masala. Where is your dream holiday destination? Vienna.
What has been your biggest achievement?
I think, with my wife Anna, we have a done a great job in raising our daughter Louisa, who is 19 years old.
What encouraged you to become a teacher?
I wanted to influence young people and help them reach their aspirations for the future.
What were you like as a kid?
I was quiet and liked to play tennis and chess.
As parents scratch their heads with keeping their children entertained these school holidays, here are three unique ways to keep children entertained and active over these school holidays.
1 Take the dog for a walk
Even if you don’t have a dog of your own, offer to walk a neighbour’s or friend’s dog as a family. It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
2 Play I Spy in nature
Explore your local nature trails and parks while playing a fun game of I Spy to keep the kids engaged.
Did you always want to become a teacher or was there another career you considered?
I was a Speech Pathologist in the Victorian hospital system for eight years before deciding to change career and become a teacher. What’s one question you have never been able to get the answer to?
I think understanding the origins of the universe is still a fascinating quest we are on.
3 Sidewalk chalk art
Let your kids express their creativity by drawing inspirational messages on the sidewalk for passersby to enjoy.
The Pakenham Upper Toomuc Yabbies Cricket Club can look forward to more time at the wicket, thanks to fresh new practice nets at the Pakenham Upper Recreation Reserve.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Tammy Radford was joined by Pakenham MP Emma Vulin to officially open the new cricket nets, which was made possible thanks to an investment of more than $230,000 by Cardinia Shire Council and theVictorian Government.
The new practice nets are now state-of-theart, including a new new four-wicket cricket training facility with fully enclosed fencing and retractable netting to allow for a flexible training space for other sports and activities.
One wicket is open permanently to the community, providing a perfect place for locals to enjoy a casual hit of cricket with friends and family, further cementing Pakenham Upper Recreation Reserve as a local sport and recreation hub. Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Tammy Radford said the upgrade will help improve participation in local sport.
“The new practice nets will make it safer and easier for local cricketers and help attract more people to play cricket in their local area,” Mayor Radford said.
Beacon Hills Ward Councillor Brett Owen said the new nets were fantastic for Pakenham Upper and surrounding towns.
“This much needed upgrade will make Pakenham Upper Recreation Reserve a better place to practice and play cricket now and into the future”, Cr Owen said.
Pakenham MP Emma Vulin called the new cricket facility“a game changer for theYabbies”.
“Astheweatherwarmsup,we’remakingsure more people can get involved with cricket and that they can find a home and sporting hub here at Pakenham Upper Recreation Reserve.”
“We want all Victorians to have access to high quality facilities so they can reap the benefits of leading a healthy and active lifestyle.”
From $311K From $470K
By Eleanor Wilson
Blind Bight resident Anne is passionate about her community.
She volunteers with her local CFA brigade and dedicates her time each week as the organiser of Cranbourne’s Grow peer support group.
However, just 12 months ago she had spent a year in bed - debilitated by panic attacks and anxiety.
Now, she is sharing her mental health journey in hopes of inspiring others to reach out for support.
Experiencing anxiety since she was 19, Anne had a long stretch of stable mental health, managing her symptoms with medication and therapy.
That was until a mental health relapse three years ago left her hospitalised and then house bound for an entire year.
“Last year I decided to try and get out of bed and I have been doing that ever since,” Anne shared from the entrance of the Balla Balla Community Centre, which she visits every Thursday to attend support group sessions.
“I wanted to build a support team around me so I started having therapy with a psychologist and through a Facebook Anxiety Group I found the Cranbourne Grow peer support group.”
Grow is a national peer-to-peer support organisation, encouraging participants to grow, recover and maintain good mental health.
Spearheaded by a 12-step program to encourage personal growth incorporating the principles of mutual help and peer support, the Cranbourne group meets weekly at Balla Balla Community Centre for support sessions.
Discovering and joining Grow in January this year was a huge turning point for Anne.
“I came away from that first meeting thinking I am so lucky to have found this group,” she said.
“I wouldn’t be sitting here, being able to do
all these things, and other things in my private life, without this group.”
SincejoiningGrow,Annesettwomaingoals for herself - to re-join her local fire brigade and to start doing the housework again.
She said Grow has helped her achieve both of those goals.
“I’m feeling quite proud at looking at no mess compared to messy and knowing that I’ve cleaned that up.
“The Grow group program has definitely helped me change my thinking and given me confidence in knowing that the group will support me and help me in using the program.
“I have learnt that I am not alone and it’s a comforting thought that my lived experiences could possibly help someone else.”
Cranbourne Grow program worker JulieAnne Van Tatenhove said Anne has progressed in leaps and bounds since joining the group.
“Anne has been a joy as a member because she has always been willing to give it a go and the changes you can make, even over a short period of time, just by giving things a go is
amazing,” MsVan Tatenhove said.
“It’s been wonderful to see her grow in balance, because she does have a go-getter attitude, but she’s balancing it really well with selfcare now.”
Anne hopes her story will encourage individuals in a similar situation to reach out for support.
“It’s free, its open to all and its confidential.
“Give it a go - it might change your life.”
Cranbourne Grow is free and meets each Thursday from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Balla Balla Community Centre, 9 Selandra Boulevard Clyde North.
The program is ideal for anyone experiencing mental health conditions and are requiring long term mental health support.
For further information please call the toll free number: 1800 558 268.
In an emergency, contact Triple-Zero. You can also call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For help, contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or go to beyondblue.org.au
Hallam Primary School Grade 5 and 6 students have topped the table at a state online maths competition.
Designed by education platform Maths Circle, the ‘Melbourne Rocks’ maths competition challenged students from 50 primary schools on their times table skills.
Maths Circle chief executive Bruno Reddy said Hallam Primary was a standout performer from the beginning.
“As the competition began to unfold, my team and I were fascinated by the outstanding performance of Hallam Primary; they led the field from the beginning and are to be congratulated for their excellent results.”
The comp was designed to multiply the ‘joy factor’ in mathematics, with the classroom “pumping” with music and excited screams, he said.
Hallam Primary’s Grade 5 and 6 team leader Deb said “the kids are still buzzing and excited to do it again next year”.
“The bottom line is that it’s great when kids are learning their tables.
“It’s not easy to get them into a routine of practising but the Times Tables Rock Stars really helped because it’s fun, they love being on devices and it works.”
It showed how technology can work wonders in an economically and culturally diverse school with 40 languages, Deb said.
“We cater to refugee families, very well-off families, and disadvantaged families.We’ve got them all.
“As a school community, we don’t see the kids as culturally different, and we hope the kids don’t either.
“Melbourne Rocks has helped us show this around mathematics and learning times tables.
It made it really equitable and showed the community that we’re all the same.”
Hallam Primary School will compete at a national ‘Oz Rocks’ maths competition in October.
Thumbs down
To the lack of fire reduction planning by Casey Council and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).
Thumbs up
For fixing the pothole at the entrance to Devon Road in Devon Meadows.
Thumbs down
To Dan Andrews jumping ship after destroying the state and getting paid royally the entire time and from now till he dies.
Every school has a motto or mission statement that outlines how each member of the community can benefit from being part of the school community.
St Clare’s Primary School in Officer has the following motto: Faith leads to courage, wisdom and compassion.
In order to live out this motto, all members of the school community are asked to follow the school-wide expectations of respect, optimism, courage, kind, and safe – ROCKS.
Students follow these in their daily actions at school by doing their job, having a go, making positive choices, seeking help when needed, modelling and practising kindness, and keeping themselves and others safe.
At St Clare’s, these expectations are modelled and explicitly taught and reinforced in an ongoing way.
Student awards are based on living out ROCKS and the school links these expectations to scriptures in the Bible.
The St Clare’s team hopes all members of our community will leave the school with ROCKS and the motto instilled in their minds as they go through life.
The school looks to nurture the holistic development of each child at the school.
For the St Clare’s family, numeracy and literacy skills are core elements of education; but so are religious education – developing empathy, social justice, and a strong moral compass.
The school encourages active play and healthy bodies; understanding other cultures through learning languages; and the confidence that comes with developing creativity through the performing and visual arts.
Student achievement is measured not only by academic growth, but by each child’s emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing.
Being part of faith-filled community instils
St Clare’s students with a sense of identity, a feeling of belonging and, above all, a powerful sense of self-worth.
At St Clare’s, the aim is to have each child reach their potential to be a well-rounded in-
dividual, within a supportive and caring learning environment. Visit www.stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au and take a virtual tour to get a real feel for the school. School tours are also available. Call 5940 6777 to book a time.
If you are looking to enrol for 2024, contact the school now as it is now accepting enrolments for next year for all year levels. For all enquires or to receive enrolment documentation, call 5940 6777 or email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au.
At Lakeside College we seek to provide a well rounded, Christian education for students of all backgrounds.
In the Primary School we aim to provide each child in Years Prep to 6 with programs suited to their individual needs in order to lay the foundations for ongoing success.
We provide a safe and caring environment where each child is challenged to reach her/his potential. To ensure all students are learning and progressing, our expert teaching team use a range of teaching and learning methods with an emphasis on enquiry based experiences.
Students at Lakeside College receive individual attention and are nurtured as they grow in this community environment. Older students work with younger students across the school, creating collegiality and inclusiveness among students of all ages and backgrounds. At Lakeside College we have a strong commitment to developing skills across a range of curriculum areas.
In the Primary School we have a firm emphasis on literacy and numeracy as well as music, sport and studies of our community. Central to our teaching and learning are our Christian values. Students are taught about the Christian faith and values in an inclusive, non-threatening way.
Lakeside College is located at 2 Portobello Road, Pakenham, 5941 7544.
Lakeside College students are taught about the Christian faith and values in an inclusive, non-threatening way.
Helping primary school children learn math at home can be a rewarding experience that lays a strong foundation for their future academic success. Parents play a crucial role in fostering a positive attitude towards math and providing the necessary support. Here are some effective strategies for parents to help their primary school children learn math at home:
1. Create a positive attitude: Parents should maintain a positive attitude towards math themselves and avoid expressing any negativity. Emphasize that math is a valuable skill that can be interesting and fun. Avoid saying things like “I was never good at math“ to prevent your child from developing a similar mindset.
2. Incorporate math into daily kife: Integrate math into everyday activities. While cooking, involve your child in measuring ingredients, estimating quantities, and understanding fractions. When shopping, ask them to compare prices, calculate discounts, or estimate the total cost.
3. Play math games:
Engage in math games and puzzles that make learning enjoyable. Board games, card games, and online math apps offer interactive ways to reinforce math concepts, improve problem-solving skills, and enhance logical thinking.
5. Set realistic goals: Set achievable goals based on your child’s current math level. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, to boost their confidence and motivation.
6. Use real-life examples: Show how math is relevant in the real world. When planning a family outing, discuss distances, travel times, and routes. Calculate the tip at a restaurant or determine the change after making a purchase.
7. Be patient and supportive: Each child learns at their own pace. Be patient and provide the necessary support. Offer guidance without imposing pressure, and be ready to explain concepts multiple
times if needed.
8. Encourage problem-solving: Expose your child to various math problems that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving. Encourage them to approach challenges from different angles and develop their own strategies.
9. Communicate with teachers: Stay in touch with your child’s math teacher to understand the curriculum and identify areas where your child might need additional support. This partnership ensures a coordinated effort between school and home.
10. Use online resources: Utilise reputable online resources that offer interactive math lessons, tutorials, and practice exercises. These resources can reinforce classroom learning and provide additional practice.
11. Read math-related books: Explore math-related storybooks that make math concepts more relatable and engaging. These books can stimulate your child’s interest in math and provide different perspectives on the subject.
12. Emphasise mistakes as learning opportunities:
Encourage your child to view mistakes as a natural part of learning. Discuss errors openly, identify the areas that need improvement, and work together to overcome challenges.
13. Make math a family activity: Involve the entire family in math-related activities. Play math trivia games during family gatherings, solve puzzles together, or have a math-themed movie night.
By adopting these strategies, parents can create a supportive and engaging learning environment at home, fostering their primary school children’s interest and confidence in math. Remember that your positive involvement can have a lasting impact on their academic success and overall attitude towards learning.
adults utilising the latest technologies including SureSmile, Lingual, Spark and Invisalign clear appliances. plans to make orthodontics accessible to everyone. Strict hygiene and physical distancing policies in place
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5.30 pm
Berwick | Phone: (03) 9330 0702 | info@seortho.com.au | www.seortho.com.au
Berwick City Soccer Club player Savo Leone has lived and breathed soccer since he was two years old and now trains at the sports fields at Tulliallan Estate in Cranbourne North every day - rain, hail or shine.
He has taken one step closer to his calling, after being selected as part of the Berwick City Under-16 team travelling to Singapore to compete in the SingaCup, Asia’s premier international youth football tournament running from Saturday4NovembertoSaturday11November.
Berwick City Soccer Club has selected a squad of 17 players aged between 13 and 15 for the tournament.
Savo’s Mum Florence has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the trip, with more than $2000 raised so far towards the $10,000 goal.
The Year 9 Alkira Secondary College student has overcome a number of obstacles to realising his dreams, including suffering from necrosis in the bones of his left foot for two years and relearning how to walk.
“I just love the sport,” he said.
“It just makes me happy.”
Savo said he was looking forward to playing on an international stage at a year higher than his current level and was hopeful scouts would see his skills.
“I’m really excited to go,” he said.
“I can’t wait for it.”
Florence said she was “so grateful” for the support Savo has already received, including from the Western United Football Club and the broader Casey soccer community.
“I am super proud of my son,” she said.
“As a mother looking after three kids on my own, I am doing everything possible to make Savo’s dreams come true.”
Savo said he was excited to leave Australia
BerwickCitySoccerClubplayerSavoLeoneispreparingtotraveltoSingaporetocompeteinthe SingaCuptournament. 362662
for the first time.
“I hope we win the whole thing,” he said.
“I hope we go and do proud for us.”
Casey Council’s Maternal and Child Health
(MCH) Service recorded a 8.56 per cent drop in participation due to a shortage of trained MCH nurses.
During its meeting on Tuesday 19 September, the council certified its Performance Statement for the 2022/23 year, which detailed participation had fallen to 60.58 per cent.
Following a period of reduced service offering to the zero to eight week age group from last October, this has now increased to zero to 18 months age group as of the end of June.
Casey Council child, youth and family manager Bronwyn Saffron said the shortage of nurses was yet another impact of shortages across the healthcare sector.
“Workforce pressures continue to be felt across Victoria’s healthcare sector, which has had a significant impact on staffing resources for Maternal Child Health (MCH) services,” she said.
“While we continue to manage workforce pressures, the recruitment of additional staff allowed us to increase our service again in June 2023, to make MCH appointments available for children up to 18 months of age, as well as families with additional needs.
“Prior to this, we needed to prioritise appointments for newborns aged zero to eight weeks and families with additional needs.”
Ms Saffron said the council was continuing to work closely with the Health Department, the Municipal Association ofVictoria, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation and Safer Care Victoria to resolve the issue to ensure the service could return to full service levels as quickly as possible.
“One way we’ve been working to address the challenges is through our support of
MCH student placements,” she said.
“Over 2023 and 2024, the council will support 24 student placements.”
Ms Saffron said the council was continuing to provide in-home support for parents who have received a referral from a MCH nurse, GP or other health professional via the council’s Enhanced Maternal and Child Health Team.
“Council is committed to supporting all families and parents in our community and continues to provide free first time parents’ groups, sleep and settling support, breastfeeding (lactation) support and online workshops for introduction of foods,” she said.
“If parents have concerns about their child’s growth and development, and they do not have an appointment, they can call our central booking number on 9705 5590 and request to speak to a Team Leader about their concerns.
“Parents with urgent concerns about the health or wellbeing of their child should see their GP or attend the nearest Emergency Department.”
For more information about available services, visit casey.vic.gov.au/maternalchild-health-services
Pictures:STEWARTCHAMBERS
Florence said any further support was welcome before 4 November, including potential sponsorship opportunities or any
SavohasbeentrainingattheTulliallanEstate sportsfieldseverydayinpreparationforthe tournament. 362662
further donations.
To support Savo’s trip, visit gofundme. com/f/savos-soccer-dream-coming-true
sible with those of the business is key.
What is the most important decision a business can make? Is it deciding on how to provide the best product or service?
Perhaps which are the best systems and processes to implement, or maybe determining the ideal target market? For me, the most important decision a business can make is hiring the right staff.
As Richard Branson said: “Clients do not come first. Employees come first. If you take care of your employees, they will take care of the clients.” So, if you agree with my premise that having the right staff in your company is probably the single greatest determinant of business success, how many businesses do you know actually train their staff in how to interview properly?
I suspect not many, so here are some simple tips to maximise success
1. Write a position description for the role
Often we think they know what we want but it’s not until these thoughts are actually put into readable form that the true breadth of the role becomes apparent.
Documenting this allows others to review your understanding of what’s required as well so if the position interfaces with many others, getting their perspective is also very valuable.
A good position description will define the responsibilities of the role, the required experience/qualifications and personal attributes.
2. Focus on cultural fit
There is a phrase that states that ‘companies
hire on skills and fire on fit’ and there is a very good reason for this.
Unless properly trained, interviewers will tend to ask questions related to the technical areas of the role that they are familiar with.
However, just about any‘technical skill’ can
be learnt with sufficient time and investment, but try training someone in initiative, discretion or commitment!
These are all much harder and typically are part of an individual’s personality or core values, so checking that these align as far as pos-
3. Identify three core competencies and prepare about three questions for each At first sight, this may seem inadequate to fully evaluate a candidate, but when forced to focus on just the three absolute must haves for the role, depth increases and you will find that a full discussion surrounding these will typically yield information from related areas as well anyway.
Conversely, going in with a long list of questions is likely to result in a superficial response to each.
4. Listen well
May sound obvious, but many interviewers fall into the trap of lining up the next question without fully listening to the response of the previous one.
If listening is done well, then the interview becomes more relaxed and conversational since the next question follows naturally from the previous one and hence more valuable information can be derived.
5. Offer the opportunity for questions at the start and the end
Interviewing these days is a two-way process and it’s extremely important the candidate receives a positive but accurate, ‘warts and all’ understanding of the role itself (they won’t stay if they find the role is quite different to what they expected when they start).
This is also a great way to gauge a candidate’s interest in the role as well.
Someone genuinely interested is highly likely to have a range of questions that they want answered, whereas few questions may imply a lack of desire.
Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - ombs.com.au
Nine men and a woman were arrested as part of a 12-month police investigation into drugtrafficking and crime gangs across the South East.
Police raided homes in Cranbourne North and Narre Warren South on Tuesday 20 September.
They allegedly seized about one kilogram of cocaine, hand-gun ammunition, a ballistic vest, cash and a small quantity of cocaine.
A Mercedes Benz and a stolen BMW were also seized, police say.
On Wednesday 20 September, police raided further properties in Lynbrook, Clayton, Hampton Park, Dandenong, Somerville and Tyabb.
Drugs including methylamphetamines, cocaine, cannabis, ecstasy, MDMA and 1,4-butanediol, as well as a quantity of cash were seized.
The 12-month investigation by the Gang Crime Squad focused on alleged large scale drug trafficking, particularly cocaine, linked to former street gang members and associates.
Gang Crime Squad Acting Senior Sergeant Detective Craig Mitchell said the results were testament to a large-scale investigation over the past 12 months.
“This investigation also highlights the ongoing links to high level organised crime that many street gang members have, even after they have moved on from those specific groups,” he said.
“We will continue to focus on those people and ensure their criminality is targeted regardless of what it involves.
“To arrest 10 people and seize a significant quantity of drugs is satisfying, especially alongside the seizure of the firearm and ammunition.”
Nawid Safar, 29, of Lyndhurst, faced Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on trafficking cocaine, possessing and trafficking methylamphet-
amine and knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime charges on 21 September.
Bail was refused, and he was remanded for a mention hearing on 16 October.
Jacques Francois Jeanne, 31, of Hampton Park, also faced court on charges of possessing 1,4-Butanediol, possessing cannabis and possessing cocaine on Thursday 21 September.
Also charged was a 25-year-old Cranbourne North man with allegedly trafficking a large commercial quantity of cocaine, trafficking cocaine and dealing proceeds of crime.
A 22-year-old Narre Warren South man was charged with trafficking a large commercial quantity of cocaine, trafficking cocaine, possessing cocaine, prohibiting a person possessing a firearm, theft of motor vehicle and dealing with proceeds of crime and bail offences.
They were remanded in custody to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 17 January.
Police charged a 22-year-old Clyde North man with trafficking cocaine, possessing cocaine and possessing cannabis.
He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday 10 November.
Police interviewed a 20-year-old Endeavour Hills man and a 20-year-old Altona Meadows woman and released them pending further inquiries.
Police also charged a 25-year-old Clayton man with possessing cannabis and possessing prescription medication, receiving bail to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court on 7 February.
A 25-year-old Hampton Park man was bailed on an outstanding warrant to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 8 February.
Police interviewed a 25-year-old Hampton Park man and released him pending further enquiries.
The market is offering families the opportunity to buy and sell their pre-loved, new and handmade baby and children’s items. Service providers are also welcomed to highlight themselves to the local community.
· Adults $2, children free, free parking on site.
· Berwick Fields Primary School from 9am to noon on Sunday 8 October.
As part of History Month and Seniors’ Month, the Berwick Pakenham Historical Society is conducting an ‘At Home’ exhibition.
· The museum at 85 Princes Highway in Pakenham will be open between 10am and 4pm on from Thursday 5 October to Sunday 8 October.
· Entry is free with tea, coffee and biscuits also available.
Cranbourne Food Truck
The Cranbourne Food Truck is collecting pasta sauce, cereal and tea bags throughout October.
· For more information, phone 0455 121 077 or email thefoodtruck00@gmail.com
Soweto Gospel Choir’s HOPE
Three-time Grammy Award-winning Soweto Gospel Choir are bringing their show HOPE to Bunjil Place next month. On Wednesday 18 October, the choir will bring their new show to life at Bunjil Place in Narre Warren, celebrating the music of protest and freedom from Nelson Mandela’s South Africa to the Civil Rights Movement of Martin Luther King’s 1950s America.
· For more information, visit sowetogospelchoir. live
Berwick Antique and Collectibles Fair
Endeavour Hills Leisure Centre at 10 Raymond McMahon Boulevard. Adults $5, children free. Valuations by David Freeman for $5 per item from noon to 3pm (no jewelry, coins or stamps). Refreshments available. All Proceeds go to Riding for the Disabled at Myuna Farm.
· For more information, contact Coosje on 0432 869 215 or email berwickantiquefair@ gmail.com
· Sunday 8 October from 9am to 4pm.
Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club are a not for profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students.
The club currently supports seven students of varying ages with their education expenses and are about to take on an eighth student.
The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.30am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker. Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.
The club is always looking for new members in all age groups.
· For more information, contact Shirley on 0419
try an opportunity to see a master stand-up at work with his new live show Gear.
· Thursday 7 December 2023 from 7.30pm at Bunjil Place. Tickets from $54.90. For more information and tickets, visit cmdy. live/GLE23NarreWarren
878 481 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com
School holiday fun
Botanic Ridge Village will be hosting a number of magical activities for kids these school holidays.
The kids can create a special new friend at the Build-A-Bear workshops.
All children who book into workshops will receive a pre-stuffed bear and enjoy activities including giving their bear a heart, creating a birth certificate and enjoying special activities. Bookings for the Build-A-Bear are essential and cost $8.
· Wednesday 27 to Friday 29 September - 10am, 11am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Visit botanicridgevillage.com.au for full details.
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre is a not-for-profit community managed centre, with a volunteer Committee of Management that provides strategic direction and oversight. For more than 30 years, the centre has provided a range of high-quality childcare, community services, educational classes and spaces for hire.
Fun Filled Community Open Day is on Saturday 14 October. Explore diverse activities and engage with fellow community members. Lots of free family fun, sausage sizzle, animal nursery, popcorn, and fairy floss.
Ageing Positively month by the City of Casey with free events every Wednesday in October including morning tea with homemade scones and jam, sausage sizzle in the park, gardening activities.
Free Computer classes through the Be Connected program for senior residents commencing Wednesday 11 October.
Four free sessions with help available on-site for the elderly who struggle to get online - Monday 16 October to Friday 20 October.
· For more details, visit merindapark.com.au or facebook.com/MPLandCC
· Community Open Day is on Saturday 14 October.
Works on Paper is the new exhibition at South Eastern Contemporary Art Network’s at the Gate 6 Gallery in Akoonah Park.
More than 30 works are on display, either created on or with paper.
Local artists are exhibiting in many mediums, from collage, pastel, print making to painting, charcoal and sculpture.
Visitors are invited to vote for their favourite work as there will be a People’s Choice prize announced at the end of the month.
Gate 6 Gallery is located on the beautiful parklands at the back of Akoonah Park and can be accessed either by driving in from Cardinia Street or by strolling along the creek path from the market area.
· The gallery is run by volunteers and is open every weekend from 10am to 3pm. For more information, visit secan.com.au
The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.
A long-lasting friendship and the chance to be part of the wonderful culture at the Tooradin Cricket Club has lured Michael and Peter Sweeney to the Seagulls nest this season.
Mick Sweeney will toss the coin for the first time as captain-coach of the Seagulls when the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) comes to life on Saturday 7 October.
Interested in the outcome of the toss will be his younger brother Pete, a left-arm fingerspinner and bat, while former teammate and current-day Tooradin star Tom Hussey will be a member of the first XI.
The first outing together will fulfill a promise the trio made to each other many years ago, with Mick and Pete making the switch to Tooradin after a three-year stint with DDCA Turf 2 club Cranbourne.
“It’s been a long time coming to be honest, something we’ve thought about for a while,” Mick Sweeney explained, with the season fast approaching.
“Pete is the same age as Tom Hussey, they went to school together, and I was a couple of year levels above.
“We played at Cranbourne together with Tom, then at Dandenong with him as well.
“I opened the batting with Huss for a couple of years in the twos and some of my fondest memories of playing cricket have been with Tom, in particular one year where we opened together and did really well.
“Tom left and went to Casey, for opportunity, and we’ve always said we’d play another season together.
“If not now, then I’m not sure when…so here we are.”
Mick and Pete arrive on the banks of the Westernport with impeccable CV’s after being lured to the great game at a young age in the confines of their family home in Pearcedale.
“Like a lot of other kids, we probably fell in love with the game in the backyard to be honest,” Mick said.
“Pete’s three years younger than me so as soon as he could get the arm over, we were into it.
“Like every backyard, we had our hitting zones, our out zones…if you hit my sister’s pram, you were out, that type of thing.
“We were super-competitive even back
then, and then when we were old enough to face a hard ball dad would take us down the road to the nets at Pearcedale.
“That’s where it all began.”
Mick played juniors at Cranbourne, from the age of nine through to under 17s, at the same time starting his District career at Melbourne – in the Dowling Shield and fourth XI.
Pete started a couple of years later at Dandenong, with Mick following his younger brother to Shepley Oval after watching him play one day.
Both are now life-members at Dandenong, with Mick making a first-XI century and Pete playing in a flag in 2010/11, with Mick as twelfth man.
There recent time at Cranbourne has proved frustrating, with Mick leading the club to three-consecutive finals appearances without a flag.
Despite there appearing some unfinished business at Casey Fields, the pair have decided to move on.
“The time just felt right,” Mick, a right-hand middle order bat said.
“The committee was great at Cranbourne, and it was difficult telling those people that we were going to leave.
“We finished in good positions all three years, but just couldn’t get over the line, and it felt like time for a change.
“I don’t have many years left and the lure of playing with Huss has always been there.”
Mick said making the switch from DDCA Turf 2 to the synthetic pitches of the CCCA would provide its challenges, with teams such as reigning-premier Kooweerup possessing a pace-battery to be wary of.
“Turf 2 in the DDCA is quite a unique competition, in the fact that it’s dominated by
spin,” Sweney said.
“Mostly right-arm finger spin, there were some lefties like Pete, and the odd leggie as well, but very, very spin dependent.
“Pete and I were joking that we haven’t played a competitive game of synthetic cricket in over 20 years.
“And we’re coming from a spin dominated competition, to a league where it’s pretty medium-paced dominated.
“We’re expecting the ball to move around a little bit, particularly with the red ball, and the stats suggest that batters go pretty good against the white ball as well.
“For the first time in a long time I’ll have to be a fast learner, coming in with fresh eyes and learning about our team and the style and strengths of the opposition.”
Mick said expectations were always high at Tooradin, who won the premiership in 2021/22 and finished top of the table last year.
“That is one of the things that is challenging, taking over a club that has always been around the mark,” he said.
“That’s one of the questions I asked BJ (President Ben Parrott) andTom (Hussey), like, what do you blokes want from me…you’re already a fantastic cricket club…how can I help.
“They let me know a few things they thought we could improve on, but what the club has created there in terms of the culture, that’s something I want to be a part of.
“It’s difficult in one sense, because they’re already a great club and how do you add to that…but I also have full respect for the culture that’s already been created and what we’re walking in to.
“The environment that Tooradin’s got is fantastic.
“Some pre-seasons can be pretty long, but this one hasn’t been…I’ve really enjoyed it alongside blokes who get it, blokes I know, and blokes who are willing to absorb the expectation.
“Going out and enjoying the expectation of winning is fun…so we’re looking forward to it.
“And it’s all about the people, everywhere I’ve played, when I’ve played well and really enjoyed my cricket, it’s been the people that have made it special.”
Cardinia Waters played a friendly pre-season practice game against Garfield last Tuesday.
These two clubs have a great relationship with village players regularly supporting social games and tournaments at Garfield.
Garfield filled four rinks at Cardinia Waters and both teams had a good workout followed by a pleasant social interaction afterwards.
On the bowling green it was Cardinia Waters who flexed their muscles and played to the home-ground advantage to win on all four rinks.
Three rinks won comfortably by decent margins, but the fourth was a real nail biter.
Cardinia Waters champion Ray Naylor skipped this rink against one of Garfield’s best in Alan White.
‘Whitey’ held sway for most of the early part of the game, but it was the home foursome who finished best winning by just two shots.
Ray played with Jill Naylor, Robert Mitchell and Jim Barrie.
Their final score was 15-13…which followed Alan’s rink holding an 8-0 lead after just four ends.
An outstanding result was the game won by Bill Hite’s rink, consisting of Denis Patmore, Donny Gibson and Terry Nye.
In this game of 21 ends Bill and his mates won 17, and the final score was a thumping 33-6.
John Van Vugt, Del Dance, Len Judge and Cathy Swinkels also recorded a decent win,
beating their Garfield opponents by 17 shots.
After leading 12-0 after five ends, John Moore’s rink coasted home for a 26-16 victory against Lexi Taylor’s four.
John was assisted by Michele Bondfield, Jeni Edmonds and Lorraine Devine.
Next Tuesday the village players will play an away practice game at the Narre Warren dome.
For many CardiniaWaters players this will be their first experience on the under-cover Narre Warren complex.
Those who have experienced these new facilities say they are a great place to bowl.
The Cardinia Waters Bowls Club Opening Day is set down for October 7 commencing at 9:30am.
Club identity Tom Gogan will roll the first Jack, and reigning club champion Ray Naylor will roll the opening bowl.
Ray will no doubt use his new Henselite XG bowls on this occasion.
After a social bowl all attending will enjoy lunch in the village clubhouse.
Cardinia Waters has two more practice games before the season opens.
One is on October 10 at Kooweerup, and the latter at Lang Lang on October 14.
Players are reminded that October 14 is also referendum day.
The first Saturday Pennant game for Cardinia Waters is a home game on October 21 against Upwey Tecoma.
Midweek Pennant starts on the following Tuesday.
A dream of the Pakenham Pumas Baseball Club came true over the weekend with the club’s facilities at Toomuc Reserve hosting winter grand finals for the Dandenong Baseball Association (DBA).
Big crowds flocked to the weekend extravaganza of baseball, with four games played on Saturday - and the culmination of the season taking place with the A1, A2 and Women’s grand finals on Sunday.
The Pumas were represented by the club’s C1 team on Saturday, who unfortunately went down 7-5 to Moorabbin after a competitive and hard-fought affair.
The Pumas were thrilled to host the biggest event on the DBA calendar after a frustrating few years.
“This was the culmination of a very long journey for our baseball club; the dream to host the DBA senior grand finals after being overlooked for so long and with the weather against us last year,” a spokesperson said.
“But this year it all came together.
“We want to thank the Dandenong Baseball Association for the opportunity, the Cardinia Shire Council for its help to get our grounds and facilities looking fantastic, and to all of the clubs and players that made the trip down the highway and provided a wonderful display of baseball for all to enjoy.
“But mostly we want to thank each of the individuals who gave up their own time, both behind the scenes and around the club this weekend, to make the whole thing possible.
“You should all be so proud of how you have represented our club to the wider baseball community and we are truly thankful.”
The DBA was thrilled with Pakenham’s hosting of its major event.
“Congratulations Pakenham Pumas Baseball Club on a fantastic end to the season… your club and volunteers did an amazing job.”
Dandenong
Saturday’s Outer East Under 13 Blue Netball
grand final featured a pair of rising Victorian netball stars at both ends of the court.
Fresh off a week in Perth for the School Sport Australia Netball championships as members of the successful Victorian 12 Years and Under squad, Tahlia Leary and Amelia Pryor took to the court for Narre Warren and ROC respectively.
The pair held down the defensive goal circle forVictoria in the national championships as their team went undefeated in the 14-game round robin competition to claim the national prize between 10-15 September, before going head-to-head at Officer Recreation Reserve.
The two never crossed paths on the court, with both playing defensive positions for their team, as Pryor’s ROC claimed the win 31-26.
But Leary did not walk-away empty handed, judged the best player on the court in the loss.
It culminated a big week for Leary, the captain of her Narre Warren side, who won the league best and fairest on Wednesday 20 September with 23 votes, three ahead of Pryor in second place on 20 votes.
