News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 12th October 2023

PAKENHAM OFFICER

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

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Youth Hub delayed

Temple showdown

Carbis to coach Lions

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SPORT

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Auctioneers shine in Pakenham

Group’s new chapter On 1 October, Friends of Cardinia Creek Sanctuary held its first clean-up event since appointing a new committee to steer the local environmental conservation group.

About 30 volunteers gathered in the afternoon to beautify the area along Beaconsfield-Emerald Road, which is often victim to litter from passing cars.

Story page 4

The family-friendly event was the first since the group underwent a transition to a new committee.

Youth gang blitz · · ·

a series of weapons, including a taser, part of Operation Alliance’s continued work in · Seized extendable baton and OC spray. disrupting and dismantling youth gangs. · Recovered three stolen vehicles.

“Organised crime figures, including OMCG quantities of illicit substances, includ- members, have also been in our sights this · Seized ing MDMA, methylamphetamine, cannabis and steroids.

Serviced two new FPOs, with an additional two to be completed this week for youth gang members currently in custody.

Inspector Andrew McKee, from Greater Dandenong Tasking and Coordination, said it was

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week.

“This comes as local police have recently observed links young local offenders carrying out crimes, including robberies and car thefts, on behalf of organised crime groups.”

Continued page 2 12588394-AI05-23

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Over the course of the week, police: Conducted 34 targeted Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) searches and four warrants at different addresses across Cardinia, Greater Dandenong and Casey.

Arrested 26 people.

Seized nine firearms, including one sawn-off bolt-action rifle, three longarm imitation firearms, and five handgun imitation firearms.

Various firearm related parts were also recovered.

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Police have arrested 26 people in the latest blitz on alleged youth gangs and organised crime figures across the South East last week.

Police targeted persons of interest on its Operation Alliance watchlist which monitors Victoria’s most serious and violent youth gang offenders.

In a series of raids and Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) checks on 2-5 October, people were arrested for alleged burglaries, car thefts, robberies, affray and firearm related offences.

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NEWS

2023 ALPA Victorian Young Auctioneer Competition finalists.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

2023 ALPA Victorian Young Auctioneer Competition runner-up Ned Balharrie, winner Harry Cozens and encouragement award Jacob Brennan.

Young auctioneers shine Pakenham hosted the best of the state’s future livestock auctioneers this week, as the town held the Victorian Young Auctioneers Competition.

Organised by the Australian Livestock & Property Agents Association (ALPA), this year celebrated 34 years of the competition.

The event saw young auctioneers gathered from all over the state at the Victorian Livestock Exchange in Pakenham on Monday 9 October.

All ten finalists for the competition were selected at the ALPA Victorian auctioneers school at Inglis Complex at Oaklands where

they took time to hone their skills for the big day.

Each auctioneer was tasked with selling three lots of cattle to a strong buyers’ ring at the exchange.

ALPA said they all showed great flair, personality and determination in front of a worldwide audience and special attendees.

Three industry experts were picked to judge the strong competition.

The winner, taking the spot of 2023’s best young auctioneer, was Harry Cozens who works for Elders out of Albury.

Runner-up went to Ned Balharrie from Nutrien Ag Solutions in Ballarat, while Jacob Brennan from AWN Nelson Livestock in Tatura was awarded the inaugural Brian Rodwell Encouragement Award.

ALPA CEO Peter Baldwin said the strong competition represents the high skill within the industry.

“From what we observed at the ALPA auctioneers school through their progression up to today we always envisaged a tight competition,” Mr Baldwin said.

“The qualities and skills displayed by the auctioneers today are a great reflection of in-

dustry. “These young professionals whose ultimate aim is to be a great all round agent with a strong client base have showcased the hard work they have put in to develop their auctioneering skills and have been boosted by the investment and encouragement provided by their employers across Victoria.”

The night prior, competitors, ALPA members and industry members gathered for the Victoria Young Auctioneers Dinner where attendees conducted an auction of their own which raised $23,500 for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Youth gang blitz: Cops target watchlist ‘persons of interest’

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

Magistrates’ Court on 16 October.

The woman was charged and summonsed with nine offences, including theft of a motor vehicle and stating a false name.

She will appear before court at a later date.

Local police, including the Greater Dandenong Alliance Taskforce were supported by the VIPER Taskforce, Highway Patrol officers, the Canine Unit, Airwing and Drone Unit during the course of the operation.

“We are using every available avenue and resource to make life as difficult as possible for those looking to reoffend and bring further harm upon our community,” Insp McKee said.

“This week is only a small part of the statewide Operation Alliance, which has led to 440 youth gang members being arrested a combined 1,630 times over the past year.”

Any information on illicit firearms or gangrelated crime to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

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lation to the alleged theft of a motor vehicle and bail offences. He was released pending further enquiries.

A 34-year-old Springvale South man who was arrested following a Firearms Act search at his home. Police seized eight imitation firearms and ammunition, as well as quantities of methylamphetamine and cannabis. He was charged with firearm and drug related offences and was to appear in Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 5 October.

A 50-year-old known OMCG associate who was arrested after police located an extendable baton inside a car during a search of a Dandenong North home. The woman was charged and summonsed for possess prohibited weapon and will face court at a later date.

In Berwick, a 27-year-old Croydon North man and 21-year-old Healesville woman were arrested, following the use of ANPR technology which detected a blue Subaru bearing allegedly stolen number plates.

The pair allegedly fled from police on foot and were arrested in the yard of a property on Earlsfield Drive.

They were allegedly found in possession of 1,4-Butanediol and MDMA, along with identification documents believed to be stolen goods.

It will be further alleged they were involved in a petrol drive-off in Ringwood late last month.

The man was charged with 20 offences including theft of a motor vehicle, theft of petrol, possess 1,4-Butanediol, commit indicatable offence while on bail, drive while disqualified, and display incorrect plates.

He was remanded to appear at Dandenong

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From page 1 Since Alliance was formed in September 2020, police had reduced the number of known youth gang members in Victoria from 747 to 598, Insp McKee said.

“However, a core group of recidivist offenders, including 84 gang members who police have arrested more than ten times over the past year, remain the ongoing challenge and focus for Operation Alliance.

“These young people have shown a continual disregard for the rest of the community, and we will continue to have no hesitation in holding them accountable.”

Among those arrested last week were: An 18-year-old known youth gang member from Hampton Park who was arrested following an FPO check, and charged over an alleged aggravated burglary, and theft of a motor vehicle. He was charged and summonsed and will attend court at

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NEWS

Builder collapse hits hub

By Corey Everitt The strains on the building industry continue to ripple through the community as construction of the new Cardinia Youth Hub has been delayed as the project’s builder has gone into liquidation.

Cardinia Shire Council announced on Tuesday 10 October that the new Youth Hub on James Street will be delayed until next year because the building contractor, Allmore Constructions Pty Ltd, has gone under.

Notice of Allmore’s liquidation was posted by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission on 7 September.

Cardinia Shire mayor Cr Tammy Radford says that while the delay is disappointing, the council remains as committed as ever to delivering the Youth Hub for the community.

“Cardinia Youth Hub is one of council’s priority projects, so we’re working hard to get ready to go back out to tender,” Cr Radford said.

“Our shire’s population is young and growing rapidly. The current My Place youth facility already offers a range of support services and programs for young people including the recent set up of a studio space.

“The new Cardina Youth Hub will enhance this important work in a much larger space with upgraded facilities, seven youth organisations have committed to co-locating in the hub once opened.

“This will provide a one-stop shop for young people to access a range of support services within their local community.”

The large project they were tasked with was

The construction of the multi-million dollar Cardinia Youth Hub has come to a halt as the contracted builder goes bust. set to provide facilities to Pakenham and surrounds youth aged between 12 and 24, offering programs and services with dedicated training/class rooms, counselling rooms, a program/group room, hang out space, a shower and laundry facility, recording booth, computers with internet access and a roof-top recreation space.

The construction first begun in January 2022 and has already faced delays before All-

more’s liquidation, as originally the project was expected to be completed by January 2023.

Local, State and Federal Governments have contributed to the project’s budget which is approximately $6.3 million.

Once built, the facility will replace the existing My Place Youth Centre in Main Street, Pakenham.

The council notified that they are preparing to go back out to tender to engage with a

new builder to complete the construction of the facility.

They anticipate that building works will recommence in early 2024.

Young people can continue to attend group programs and access support services from My Place (5-7 Main Street, Pakenham) or by calling 1800 496 884.

My Place is open Monday to Friday, 1–5pm.

Campaign to help elephants in Sri Lanka

By Corey Everitt A Pakenham local is calling on others to join him in fundraising efforts to protect elephants in Sri Lanka.

Lakeside resident Kuma Perera is an avid painter and wants to offer his paintings to raise funds for a vital project that will help elephants in central Sri Lanka.

With elephants as the subject, Kuma is planning to run galleries, auction paintings and, most of all, get others involved in providing financial support to the construction of a fence in Sri Lanka that will protect elephants.

“Last year alone, 430 elephants died and this keeps on happening, so I just want to do whatever I can to stop this,” Kuma said.

“I just want to have some sort of protection for them so at least they can contain them inside that area because it is so sad when you see it.”

As people populate the territories of elephants, the frequency of encounters between the two rises.

With more encounters, more dangerous or invasive incidents occur on farms or

dwellings.

With more incidents, more humans and elephants are killed due to these hard to manage situations.

With the help of the Sri Lankan Government, locals in the central part of the country are attempting to construct approximately 97 kilometres of fence that can assist in reducing these uncontrolled encounters and reduce fatalities of both humans and elephants.

“They are building the fence already, but they are just struggling with the funds,” Kuma said.

“So I just want to do what I can do just to help them, a lot of people are happy to join with me, but I need a voice.”

Having set up the charity that will get the funds to the project, Kuma is hoping to start organising ways in which he can raise funds through his passion for painting.

Building upon a set of his pieces depicting elephants, Kuma plans to find ways of raising funds with them.

“I just want to spread my word to everybody to join me. I’m planning to have an art exhibition with just elephants and encourage

people to be a part of it and on that day we can get donations to put towards that,” Kuma said.

“I’m trying to sell, auction, whatever that I can do I’m just doing from my side as well, plus people can donate.”

He hopes to work with institutions to help promote and spread the word. Already he has promising signs for a gallery with Greater Dandenong Council.

However, while he is in the initial stages, he wants to call out for others who care for the lives of elephants to join him.

Whether it be producing art and products of their own, donating directly or joining in efforts to organise and spread the word.

“I started it, but I’m calling everyone to join with me,” Kuma said.

“They are in Sri Lanka, of course, but it’s a world thing, we have to protect them for the future generation to see.

“If you are sad about it, so we do something about it together, I can’t do it only by myself.”

If you wish to get in touch with Kuma, you can email kumaperera690@gmail.com

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Kuma Perera with one of his paintings.

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YOUR VOICE FOR EASTERN VICTORIA Authorised by Renee Heath MP, 51 James St, Pakenham Thursday, 12 October, 2023

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STAR NEWS 3

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria director and chief executive David Harland

What do you love the most about your job?

Any organisation’s culture is made by its people; Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is full of people driven by our mission and purpose – my joy comes from enabling them and in sharing their success. I love to see people progress – whether that is formal qualifications or just their own successes.

If you were an animal, what animal would you be?

I have always loved the elephant, but I love the idea of being able to fly and swim faster…so maybe a flying elephant with dolphin-esque tendencies?

What would your last meal be?

Chicken tikka saag, tarka daal, saag aloo, garlic naan…bring on the Indian feast!

What has been your most memorable moment?

On the work front, welcoming the Queen, four other members of the Royal family, President Biden and the other G7 world leaders (alongside business and cultural leaders like Stella McCartney) to the Eden Project has to be up there. That and securing a change in the UK’s Levelling Up economic policy to support cultural investment – such that we successfully secured £50 million for the people of Morecambe (Lancashire) to build a new Eden there.

What were you like as a kid?

I was quiet – an introverted extrovert – good at school and played a lot of sports and music.

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

John Cleese, Mary Robinson, William Guilfoyle, Laozi, Ian Botham and my wife…she’d kill me if she wasn’t invited!

What are you currently reading?

I am reading Robert MacFarlane’s brilliant Underground, as well as Merlin Sheldrake’s Entangled Life.

THREE … ways to stay safe at the beach

1

Swim between the flags Always choose to swim at beaches that have lifeguards on duty and swim between the red and yellow flags. These flags indicate the safest area for swimming, as lifeguards actively monitor this zone for potential hazards such as strong currents and marine life.

2

Supervise children Families visiting the beach should be extra vigilant when it comes to child safety. Never leave children unattended near the water, even if they are wading in shallow areas. Designate a responsible adult to keep a close eye on children, ensuring their safety and providing immediate assistance if needed.

3

Don’t swim alone To enhance your safety, avoid taking unnecessary risks, such as swimming alone. Always swim with a friend or family member.

Having a buddy ensures that someone is there to assist you in case of an emergency.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria director and chief executive David Harland. 362327 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS What three words would your friends use to describe you?

In a hurry.

What would you do on your perfect ‘day off’?

I would do like a team game…with a bat and a ball – cricket ideally. Picnics are magnificent…I can remember nearly all the picnics that I ever went to as a kid!

Where is your happy place?

Outside with a picnic and a ball.

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

I’m from the UK and there is a rich tradition of Indian cooking there and I’d struggle to resist something of that genre – and it would have spinach in it!

Where is your dream holiday destination?

Either Costa Rica or Japan – I have been to both. Costa Rica for its incredible diversity and Pura Vida lifestyle; Japan for its difference and culture – unlike anywhere else.

NEWS

Creek clean-up a success On 1 October Friends of Cardinia Creek Sanctuary held its first clean-up event since appointing a new committee to steer the local environmental conservation group.

About 30 volunteers gathered in the afternoon to beautify the area along BeaconsfieldEmerald Road, which is often victim to litter from passing cars.

Officer’s High Horse cafe provided refreshments for the group after a hard afternoon’s work.

Committee member Jarod Mills said he looked forward to holding more clean-up events to help keep the creek litter free and healthy for wildlife.

Friends of Cardinia Creek Sanctuary has been looking after the reserve for more than

25 years through frequent working bees and clean-up days.

With the appointment of a new committee in September, Mr Mills said the group would focus on clean-ups and weed removal for the immediate future.

“It was great to see lots of families getting the kids involved, we’d like to keep it really family friendly,” Mr Mills said.

The group also held a Cardinia Creek nature walk in September, guided by Cardinia Shire council natural resource leader Rob Jones.

Volunteers spent the afternoon gathering plastics, old tyres and household waste discarded along the roadside.

Friends members enjoyed discovering local flora and fauna in the reserve.

The LARDNER PARK GARDEN AND HOME EXPO offers a comprehensive range of gardening and outdoor plants, products, services and industry experts on hand – it’s an event you can’t miss. This twoday event brings together over 100 stalls, with a great mix of specialist and general nurseries, as well as a variety of other garden and home products on display and being demonstrated, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for your next project including:

The LARDNER PARK GARDEN AND HOME EXPO

Presentation program featuring:

9am to 4pm at Lardner Park 4 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

Jason Hodges – Better Homes and Gardens Megan Metcalfe – Renovation Rescue  Merryle Johnson – Country Farm Perennials  Latrobe Valley Beekeepers  Brooke Steenholdt – Brightwood Blooms  

 Landscaping  Plants Gardening tools and machinery (Including try before you buy demonstrations)  Home building & products  Statues and garden features  Interior and exterior furnishings  Indoor and outdoor furniture 

PLUS...

The Warragul Farmers Market will be showcasing local produce in the North Pavilion

Children’s Entertainment

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STAR NEWS 5

NEWS

Safety survey

By Violet Li

Geoff Higgins and Pearl reunited last week after an eight-day search for her across Narre Warren Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS and Cranbourne. 365604

Pearl only suffered minor injuries. 365604

Best friends again

By Matthew Sims The Narre Warren and broader Casey community has celebrated the end of a eight-day search for seven-year-old ridgeback labrador cross Pearl, which involved hundreds of locals on the lookout and more than 1400 people tracking her whereabouts on Facebook.

Owner Geoff Higgins said he was grateful for the overwhelming support he had received from the Berwick community during and after the search for Pearl.

“It was a tremendous search effort,” he said.

The Frankston South resident had given Pearl to a friend in Clyde North while he and his wife were away, with Pearl making a quick escape out of their garage door without them knowing on Wednesday 27 September.

The community sprang into action, with locals driving around searching for hours on end

searching for Pearl.

Mr Higgins said he was receiving news of sightings every day, but Pearl was scared of people she did not know and was running away.

“By the time I got here, it was 40 minutes later and she had run away,” he said.

“She was very frightened.

“She was running from everybody.”

Shocking news hit the Facebook page in the early hours of Monday 2 October that Pearl had been hit by a car when she was crossing Clyde Road towards Arbourlea Estate, with another spotting shortly after on Rossiter Retreat in Cranbourne North.

On Thursday 5 October, the news everyone had been waiting for arrived, with Pearl found by locals Cheryl and Graham sitting on a front porch at a house on Alisma Boulevard in Cranbourne North.

“She’s been sleeping since Thursday afternoon to this morning,” he said.

“She lost about 10 per cent of her body weight.

“I think she was looking for chicken around the back of Hungry Jack’s.”

Pearl was found with a few cuts and grazes and her paw pads were completely worn down during her ordeal.

Mr Higgins said he was “over the moon” to reunite with Pearl.

“She’s a very loving dog,” he said.

“She is friendly and gentle.

“She hasn’t changed a bit.”

Mr Higgins said he was indebted to everyone who helped, especially Facebook group coordinator Jan. “It was an incredible effort,” he said.

“It’s a lovely place to get lost, isn’t it?”

OPINION

LENSCAPE

Casey Council is inviting residents to share their feelings and perceptions of safety in the Casey community through the Perceptions of Safety survey.

Initially conducted in 2021, the Perceptions of Safety survey provides the council with an understanding of the community’s views of safety in the municipality.

The 2021 survey found that more than 62 per cent of residents felt safe compared to 13 per cent who felt unsafe, with 25 per cent saying they felt neither safe nor unsafe.

Findings from the survey have assisted the council in identifying the community’s biggest safety concerns.

The top five perceived safety issues were hoons (58 per cent), drug use (39 per cent), poorly lit parks at night (39 per cent), theft from motor vehicles (37 per cent) and things being stolen from homes (36 per cent).

The council implemented several initiatives after the findings.

Casey has provided a free graffiti removal service to keep Casey’s public spaces clean.

Since the 2021 survey, it has resulted in the obliteration of approximately 95,000 square metres of graffiti, equivalent to the total area of about five MCGs. The council has used Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) to manage and maintain open spaces and facilities as well as planning and designing new spaces.

CPTEM focuses on good lighting, clear lines of sight, suitable signage as well as cleaning and clearing spaces free of rubbish and graffiti.

CPTEM helps people move easily, feel safe, navigate, and freely participate in activities in space.

It uses evidence of issues and behaviours to prioritise the need for design interventions. Casey has also conducted road safety strategies and other education programs in collaboration with Victoria Police, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), and the Department of Transport.

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff PSM said the council is now seeking to get an understanding of how perceptions and experiences have changed in the last two years.

“By providing feedback, residents will help council understand the needs of their local area,” she said.

“We want to hear from everyone, including those who do not know anything or know a lot about this topic.

“We want you to tell us how safe you feel in your neighborhood or when you are going out at night, what things you have done to improve safety in and around your home, and if there are any safety issues in your areas.”

She said the survey results will help the council continue to design and prioritize programs to meet the needs of our community.

The survey will take 10 to 15 minutes to complete and is open until Friday 27 October. To complete the survey and for more information, visit conversations. casey.vic.gov.au/exploring-safety.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up To the passionate locals fighting to save the Beaconsfield Reservoir from destruction.

Thumbs down

Narre Warren North wildlife artist Janet Matthews working on one of her pieces. 366116 6 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

To those who think the Voice is not about the Constitution or detail, it’s about a whole array of issues.

The Labor Government have mishandled the whole Voice affair as they do on many issues. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Law service leads change

By Sahar Foladi A “ground-breaking” grant into climate change legal impacts has been won by South East Monash Legal Service (SMLS).

The Springvale and Narre Warren-based service will explore not just the impact of climate change in daily lives but also how it’ll play out with the everyday legal issues.

Executive director of SMLS, Kristen Wallwork says they’re very excited to be working in the “climate justice” field as an “emerging area.”

“This is a very large nuisance area. W we’re very fortunate to have that recognised.

“The work that’s being done today is looking at disaster management and disaster preparedness (including) floods and fire.

“The idea of this project is to explore how climate change feeds into these community issues.”

This “particularly large grant” of $500,000 over two years may be one of the first.

“There’s lots happening in Victoria it’s certainly the only one we know of that’s specifically looking at daily legal issues,” Ms Wallwork says.

The legal aspect could look into the inadequate heating or cooling facilities in social housing and similarly, a landlord providing insufficient heating. “(Tenants) may be on a social welfare payment or be a low-income earner, so we’ll start to tease out different cases where there’s a cause or link to the climate.”

Domestic violence, amongst other crimes, is expected to heighten during extreme climate conditions which can form as part of this research.

“These all sounds like new ideas but they’re real.

“We’ll be targeting very specific cases, collecting data through that legal work and the idea.”

The team will be working with local council’s

to connect with communities and better grasp just how exactly extreme climate is affecting everyone.

The work consists of three major components - the first being data capacity.

“The first component is to gather data and information from the community around issues linked to climate justice, and to be able to feed into the community the ability to see their problems through a climate lens,” Ms Wallwork said.

“We’ll be developing principles, ideas and critical points about what we’re looking for in our legal works.”

The second component is to build casework for legal works and action.

“Legal action will ask for an outcome but we need to show that there’s a legal case in the first instance.”

The final stage of the initiative is advocacy.

The team can empower community campaigns to advocate for changes to provide some relief.

“We could identify a small group or particular area in the south east region where there’s a trend and we’ll support that group on how to advocate for a change.

“The reality is Australia has so much opposition to climate change so we’re a slow mover in that regard.

“I think it’s exciting that it’s happening and I really wanted to express my gratitude to the Victoria Legal Services Board and Commissioner in seeing the opportunity in this proposal because it’s a very significant investment.”

SMLS will work with the Greater Dandenong Council, City of Casey and Cardinia as part of this project.

The Victorian Legal Services Board and Commissioner have awarded $8 million in funding to support 27 projects being delivered by legal and community organisations.

South-East Monash Legal Services’ Kristen Wallwork, Yasin Azra and Sabrina Lim. 363524 Picture: GARY SISSONS

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12:02pm, Annie’s favourite time

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STAR NEWS 7

NEWS

Solar buddies lighting up

By Violet Li Students at St Francis De Sales Primary School, Lynbrook have engaged with a Solar Buddy program to help families in need around the world with energy provision.

The program has been run by the Social Justice Action Team with supervisor Shehani Rukunayake, in collaboration with the charity organisation SolarBuddy.

Students involved in the program are Dante Pizzimento, Jonathan Sequerah, Harrison Reed, Kiara Cabula, and Livinia John.

Dante introduced the program, saying that the team sold melty beads, hot chocolate, and marshmallows to make up the money for the lights.

“We raised over $900 for the last two months,” he said.

“We bought the lights, assembled them, and wrote our letters to the kids that we are giving them to in India, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu so they can study at night because they might not have power.”

Harrison added the team would pack the assembled lights and the supervisor would take them to the organisation where the kits would be sent to different countries.

The team said they had spent a few lessons learning how to assemble the lights and they usually spent around one hour on Monday each week to do the works.

Jonathan said it was pretty easy to assemble the light once you got the hang of it.

Students said they formed this team in a goodwill to help people in need.

Kiara said she wanted to help the people or children who did not have access to the things they needed.

“I wanted to help them and so they can focus on their education,” she said.

The team has completed their action with

The Social Justice Action Team at St Francis De Sales Primary School, Lynbrook are proud that they have assembled 25 lights for families in need Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS around the world. 365077 other actions already in mind.

Livinia said they were changing their actions next semester.

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has something to do with bottles,” she said.

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NEWS

Final appeal to halt centre

By Matthew Sims A group of Narre Warren North residents have made a final plea to Casey Council to reconsider its “communistic” approval of a childcare centre to be developed on 154 Drysdale Avenue in Narre Warren North.

Casey Council approved a planning permit for the use and development of a childcare centre on the land on Tuesday 3 October, with the demolition of the $1.9 million house at the property expected soon.

The plans outlined a $2.9 million early childhood education facility at the site, which would accommodate 110 places.

Highgrange Estate resident Sienna Dimarco said the last 12 months of advocating against the development was an “exhausting” battle with Casey Council’s planning department to convince them that the site’s Development Plan Overlay (DPO) should be scrapped.

“This DPO has given residents no rights to notice or appeal and has given us all extreme stress, anger, frustration and depression as town planners advised us that our objections were merely seen as submissions for consideration, and that we cannot appeal to VCAT should an application be approved,” she said.

“This is communistic behaviour and surely can not be legal in Australia.”

Casey Council planning and building manager Tania Asper said there was no requirements for a planning permit or public consultation before the existing house is demolished.

“In August, council was notified of a demolition permit approved by a private building surveyor,” she said.

“On 3 October, council approved a planning permit for the use and development of a childcare centre on the land.

“The decision was subject to a full assessment of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and the Casey Planning Scheme.”

Highgrange Estate residents are concerned about the traffic and safety impact of an approved 110 place early childhood education centre in Narre Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Warren North. 332556 Ms Asper said Casey Council notified all submitters of the decision via mail on Wednesday 4 October.

“The application was exempt from public notice requirements and certain decision requirements and review rights under relevant sections of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 as the site is covered by a Development Plan Overlay,” she said.

“Council cannot comment on when and if the project will commence.

“The planning permit allows two years for the development to commence and four years for the development to be completed.”

According to the 2021 Census, there were 356 children aged zero to four years in Narre Warren North.

A newly constructed and operational centre has been operating less than two kilometres away from the proposed planning permit at 1 Capra Court, accommodating more than

130 children aged six weeks to six years, while another centre accommodates more than 100 children at 280-283 Belgrave-Hallam Road, about 3.5 kilometres away from the proposed development.

Other centres were currently operating in Narre Warren, Narre Warren North, Endeavour Hills, and Hallam, with all centres confirming they were not operating to full capacity and had vacancies available in 2023/2024.

Ms Dimarco said the development would breach several conditions of Casey Council’s Non-Residential Use policy guidelines within the council’s Planning Scheme, including adverse impacts to the residential amenity and the overall character of Highgrange Estate.

“The plan to put a double storey 110-place childcare centre in this location is absolutely absurd and also considering one has also been built less than 300 metres away on the next corner is a lack in duty of care when assessing

‘over-saturation’ of a particular service,” she said.

“The entry to this childcare centre is going to be in Drysdale Avenue as soon as residents turn in to the estate.

“This will detrimentally impact traffic trying to get in or out of the estate.”

During Parliament on Thursday 5 October, South-Eastern MP Ann-Marie Hermans raised a question to Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny about why residents were not allowed to seek a review of the application under the DPO. “This raises concerns about the coordination and communication between the council and property owners or developers,” she said.

“With Casey council under this government’s administration, residents want to know why council chose to use the development plan overlay, denying residents a chance to seek review.”

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STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

Exchange rates in business TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS IAN ASH If you have been listening to the news recently, you may well have heard that the Australian dollar has declined in value against the US dollar and the exchange rate has recently dropped to around U.S 63 cents.

Let’s start by taking a closer look at what we mean by exchange rates.

In simple terms, the exchange rate between two currencies is the rate at which one currency can be exchanged for the other.

In Australia, we will typically talk about what one Australian dollar will buy elsewhere and since the US is typically regarded as the single largest economy, most countries will track the value of their own currency relative to the U.S. dollar, i.e. 1 AUD = US$0.

63.

It turns out our dollar has also dropped against many other currencies since the start of this month as well.

Now you may well be thinking, ‘so what?’ and for many of us there isn’t an immediate or direct impact, but if you are planning to travel overseas, this is not great news since this means that you get less of the foreign currency for your Aussie dollar and hence everything will be more expensive in the overseas country that you visit than it would have been previously. Imports will also cost more.

For business owners, there is good news and bad news when currency fluctuations occur depending on their relationship with

Inflation has been on the increase in Australia since around mid-2021.

Picture: JOSHUA HOEHNE ON UNSPLASH the overseas countries.

If a company purchases products or raw materials from overseas in the currency of that country, then if the exchange rate drops, these imports now become more expensive since more Australian dollars will now be needed to purchase the supplies in the foreign currency.

Not good. However, if the business is exporting its goods overseas, then this is potentially a great benefit since its products become less expensive in foreign markets and hence more likely to be purchased.

This is why a lower exchange rate can be expected to improve a country’s balance of trade,

so not necessarily all bad news.

Exchange rates are not something that any business can control but if your business does import or export overseas, then staying informed about current exchange rates and the market expectations about what is likely to happen to these is necessary.

If our dollar is likely to stay weaker for a period of time, you may want to consider alternative suppliers either at home or in countries with a more favourable exchange rate.

Equally, if your foreign suppliers are not lowering their prices for you, it may be time to renegotiate your contracts with the knowledge

that your dollars are now worth more than they used to be in their country.

Another option that some companies utilise is that of ‘hedging’.

When a business decides to hedge on currency, the company makes a ‘forward contract’ or a ‘currency option’ which is an agreement to buy or sell a certain amount of foreign currency on a specific future date.

This is a financial risk mitigation strategy but can work against you if the currency does not go the way you expect so this is something you should discuss with a reputable financial professional with expertise in the field.

What causes the exchange rate to fluctuate anyway?

This is a complicated subject since there are multiple factors related to market stability and inflation but local interest rates are always a distinct factor.

If Australian interest rates increase relative to rates in the US, Europe or Japan, Australian assets that pay interest (such as government bonds) become more attractive to foreign investors since these assets are now giving a higher rate of return.

Inflation has been on the increase in Australia since around mid-2021 and from May 2022 onwards, the RBA has tried to curb this through raising interest rates, the theory being that people and business will borrow less and hence reduce the money supply in the market.

Ordinarily this would have led to a stronger Australian dollar but since US inflation has been worse and their interest rate hikes larger and more rapid, by comparison our dollar is weaker.

Ian Ash ACC, AInstIB Managing Director OrgMent Business Solutions - ombs.com.au

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NEWS

Intruders face jail

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A pair of intruders who stormed into a home in Nana Walk, Narre Warren South and were later involved in a shootout in a suburban street have been jailed.

Murata Alessawi, of Epping, and Jaidyn Snowball, of Bundoora, both 18 at the time, were masked and gloved as they repeatedly kicked in the front door of the house on the night of 13 May 2022.

Alessawi took out an imitation revolver, before the pair tore down a home CCTV camera and smashed a lounge room window to gain entry. A terrified male boarder fled out the back door, jumped a fence and took shelter with a neighbour.

“It’s a home invasion. Someone is trying to kill me,” he told the neighbour.

“Call the police.”

Meanwhile the intruders searched bedrooms for the man.

One of the residents locked herself inside her bedroom. As the invaders kicked a hole in her door, she screamed out of fear.

Alessawi and Snowball returned to their hired van, which had its engine still running, and fled the area.

In sentencing on 6 October, County Court of Victoria judge Carolene Gwynn said the pair – who both pleaded guilty to home invasion - appeared to be acting on instruction, and with an intent to assault.

Snowball’s phone contained a note entitled ‘Missions’, which listed the address, two cars, “cameras around the house” and “easy access”.

A second address of the male boarder’s partner was also listed. Alessawi also pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice by making a false report to police that the hire van had been stolen from him. When the duo were arrested in June 2022, Alessawi stuck to his false alibi during a police interview.

The pair also pleaded guilty to firing a gun at

The County Court of Victoria.

Picture: AAP IMAGE/CON CHRONIS a premises with reckless disregard for safety and a string of other firearm charges over a shootout in Pascoe Vale a month after the home invasion.

Armed with high-powered, high-calibre guns, the pair had been again “commissioned” to visit a home.

The job was listed under Snowball’s ‘Missions’, including a note that a family was inside the house.

Wearing balaclavas and gloves, they arrived in a stolen van early on 14 June. Snowball was armed with a semi-automatic handgun, Alessawi with a Soviet-model assault rifle and the van was packed with extra ammo.

However, they came under fire in the street by unidentified people. The pair took cover in a front yard and returned at least 25 rounds.

Most of the bullets were fired by Alessawi, who gave covering fire to allow Snowball to return to the van.

During the gun fight, a bullet travelled 950 metres and pierced two walls of a house and lodged in another house next door. There were several bullet holes in a front fence, and two vehicles with ricochet damage.

Soon after the pair’s escape, they were intercepted by armed police. Judge Gwynn said it was unclear whether Alessawi and Snowball’s “inherently dangerous” firing of the guns was

part of the mission or spurred by coming under fire.

There were no victim impact statements but it would have been frightening for residents to be awoken by shooting, the judge noted.

“It’s very disturbing that this kind of military weapon or semi-automatic weapon is being used in a suburban street when the risk to others is perhaps obvious.

“It’s even more disturbing when these weapons are in the hands of 18 year olds commissioned as it would appear to perfom these acts.”

Alessawi also pleaded guilty to blackmail and further perverting the course of justice over his conduct after being released on bail. He had demanded a motorcycle or car while threatening to put another victim and his family “in a ditch”.

Later, he demanded the victim falsely claim to be the driver of a Mercedes Benz that had fled from police.

Neither Alessawi or Snowball would reveal what was behind their ‘missions’. Both had no prior criminal histories. Judge Gwynn noted their youthfulness gave them better prospects for rehabilitation.

But the offending, especially the shooting, was too “grave” to sentence them to youth justice centre orders – which have maximum fouryear terms. They were instead jailed in adult prisons, with “extended” non-parole periods to help their transition back into the community.

Judge Gwynn said she’d recommend to the Adult Parole Board to exercise its power to transfer the pair in juvenile detention until they were 21 years old.

Snowball was jailed for up to seven years, with a four year and two month non-parole period. His term includes 479 days of pre-sentence remand.

Alessawi was imprisoned for up to eight years, and eligible for parole in four years and 10 months. He’d already served 378 days of his term in pre-sentence detention.

Child struck A young child has been killed after being struck by a car in Hallam on Sunday 9 October.

Emergency services were called shortly after the incident in Arrino Crescent about 5pm but the 3-year-old child could not be revived, police say.

The car’s driver, a 36-year-old Hallam man, stopped at the scene and has spoken to police. Casey Highway Patrol officers are investigating the circumstances of the collision.

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

Driver killed in crash Cardinia Highway Patrol officers are investigating a fatal collision in Dalmore on Monday 9 October.

Investigators have been told a white Mazda 2 and a white Mitsubishi Triton collided at the intersection of Tooradin Station Road and Manks Road about 5pm.

The driver of the Mazda, a 36-year-old man from Cranbourne, died at the scene.

The other driver, a 34-year-old Gembrook man, sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital.

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and the investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

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STAR NEWS 11

OPINION The problem with sticking with the status quo is that we get the same results and the current results are not great for Australia’s First Nations people, argues co-founder of the South Sudanese-Australian Academic Society, ANDREW GAI.

Generational opportunity On a soapbox None of us has walked in the First Nations people’s shoes to really experience the long-lasting impact of colonisation, dispossession of land and the stolen generation. Despite several attempts by successive governments to address the challenges facing the First Nations people, there is continued over-representation of the First Nations children and young people in Out-of-Home Care and juvenile justice system across the country.

We have been trying to close the gap in key areas such as health and wellbeing; education; employment; justice; safety; housing, etc., for over 10 years now but the progress has been very slow. We cannot allow our First Nations people living in third world like conditions in this economically successful first world country of Australia. Some of the towns in the central and Northern Australia are underdeveloped with limited essential services.

The Voice will be the better alternative in truly achieving the better outcomes for our First Nations people.

Those of us who drive manual, you know that it’s time to change gears when you feel a vibration and/or hear a different noise. We have pretty much been using the same gear for 122 years now to try to address the challenges facing our First Nations people but the evidence shows that some of the efforts have been in vain. Now there is vibration for change in how we as a nation can enhance reconciliation with our First Nations people. So it’s time to change gears Australia. Let’s hear the voice of our First Nations people and see what the next 100 years will look like.

Voting is currently underway leading up to the final day on 14 October and all Australians who are eligible to vote are being asked to vote Yes/No to this statement: “A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aborigi-

Andrew Gai. nal and Torres Strait Islander Voice”.

The Voice was a key recommendation from the Uluru Statement From The Heart and it has the support of over 80 per cent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

So this is not something that some non-Indigenous Australians thought it would be best for the First Nations people but it is the First Nations people themselves who are asking for it. The Voice will ensure that the government listen to the needs and concerns identified at the grassroot level and ensure that policies and decisions co-designed with the First Nations people.

The First Nations people had their own system of government before colonisation and it’s fair to say that the system worked for them at time. One notable example was that the First Nations people raised their children in their own homes, within supportive extended family and community. Furthermore, the First Nations people’s communities are made up of clans and/or tribes with the elders (uncles and aunties) playing a very important role of ensuring cohesiveness and addressing problems as they arise. Such knowledge and wis-

dom have been suppressed or replaced by the Western form of government and the results are obvious as mentioned above.

Therefore, the Voice is self-determination for the First Nations people.

In other words, the Voice will enhance the self-determination work that began in early 1970s with the policy of ‘self-determination’ whereby the First Nations people gained the right to make decisions about matters affecting their own lives, including the pace and nature of their future development within the legal, social and economic framework of Australian society.

The Voice is healing for the First Nations people; since being listened to and acknowledged are the beginning of the healing process. However, this time, listening and acknowledgement must be followed by concrete actions and strategies informed by the Voice.

The Voice will pave the way for a proper treaty negotiation at the national level when time is right to talk about having a treaty with the First Nations people. Taking an example from my home state of Victoria which is leading the way in the path towards a treaty with

the First Nations people. Having successfully set up the First Nations People’s Assembly has made it a lot easier for the First Nations people in Victoria to have one very strong voice at the negotiation table with the Victorian government.

And as for the Victorian Government, it has been a very efficient approach, in terms of saving money and time to negotiate with one body rather than with 100 or so tribal leaders.

So the Indigenous voice to Parliament will aid the national treaty negotiating process on both sides in the future.

This is our generational opportunity to set the record straight in our national document the Constitution.

Referendums (referenda) do not occur very often and chances of success are very minimal.

So every Australian needs to vote and vote with a clear conscience.

We cannot erase history but we can acknowledge it and rewrite any wrong or mistakes of the past generations and successive governments.

One of the wrongs that needs to be rewritten is the term “terra nullius”, i.e. that Australia was a “nobody’s land” which is contradictory to what most of us Australians often proudly proclaim - that we have the world’s longestcontinuing-living culture for over 65,000 years.

But all of the sudden this ceases to exist or be it for a moment in early 1770s when Captain Cook arrived in Australia.

It is very important that our First Nations people are recognised in our national Constitution and we can make this happen on 14 October.

We have come a long way as a nation in the journey towards achieving a meaningful reconciliation with our First Nations people.

The past generations have had their say on several Indigenous issues, e.g. being counted in census, being allowed to vote etc.

Regardless of the outcome from this referendum, one thing that is crystal clear is that our First Nations people need to be listened to more and they want to be more involved in decisions and policies that affect their people and their communities across Australia.

Don’t risk ‘uncertain’ Voice It’s not the answer: Heath The concept of a Voice to Parliament is a noble one, and like many Australians, I initially supported the idea.

However, my enthusiasm waned when it became evident that no concrete details were being provided, and Prime Minister Albanese declared that these details would only emerge after a successful referendum.

This approach defies common sense and places the burden of trust squarely on the shoulders of the Australian people, without offering any assurance or clarity on what we are actually supporting.

The Prime Minister’s Voice referendum has already divided our nation, pitting Australians against each other over an ill-defined concept.

This referendum should be about recognition, which enjoys widespread support across all major parties.

Constitutional recognition can and should be achieved without intertwining it with a risky, uncertain, and permanent Voice.

Establishing a constitutional body for one specific group risks permanently dividing our nation.

More bureaucracy is not the solution to the challenges faced by Indigenous Australians.

Once a Voice is enshrined in the Constitution, it becomes irreversible.

There are better, more inclusive ways forward that can foster unity and reconciliation without the unnecessary risks and uncertainties associated with the current proposal.

It’s time to seek a path that unites us rather than divides us further.

If the Labor Party genuinely prioritised sup12 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

Jason Wood says constitutional recognition for the First Peoples does not need to be intertwined with a Voice to Parliament. port for Indigenous youth, in particular, their actions should align with their rhetoric.

Labor’s cancellation of the Safer Communities Fund, which I was instrumental in establishing and which allocated $35 million in Round 6 of the grants to Aboriginal organisations working to keep Indigenous children in school, provide mentoring programs, training opportunities and steering young people away from youth detention, raises questions about Labor’s commitment to these vulnerable communities.

Actions speak louder than words, and the discontinuation of a program that directly addresses the needs of Indigenous youth suggests a disconnect between their promises and their actual priorities.

Labor must prioritise tangible actions and initiatives that empower and uplift Indigenous youth, rather than simply paying lip service to these critical issues.

Jason Wood La Trobe Liberal MP

Eastern Victoria MP Renee Heath issued the following Member’s Statement on the Voice referendum.

I used my very first speech in this House to talk about reconciliation. I believe that we are strong when we honour and see the uniqueness in every single person.

I believe this nation does need healing, trust does need to be built between different groups and I do not believe that the Voice is the answer. The Voice is divisive, legally risky, lacks detail and it is permanent.

While I wholeheartedly support Indigenous recognition in the Constitution, I do not believe that the Voice will provide better outcomes for Indigenous Australians.

Treating any ethnic group as a collective beholden to one opinion degrades and diminishes them. Aboriginal people are individuals with a diverse range of worldviews, opinions, thoughts and philosophies.

We will do people a gross disservice if we allow their individualism to be swallowed up in a multi-billion-dollar, unelected bureaucracy that speaks on their behalf.

We need to stop looking at people as racial entities because we are better than that.

Australians should not be divided along the lines of race. We need the spirit of unity and not the politics of division.

Vote NO to the Voice.

Renee Heath Member for Eastern Victoria

Renee Heath is the Member for the Eastern Victoria region, including Pakenham.

Picture: SUPPLIED pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Temple showdown looms

By Violet Li

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Resident Craig Gobbi is concerned about the proposed temple development within the Mornington Peninsula Green Wedge Zone in rural Pearcedale.

365405 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Another concern of the group is the proposed site falls within the Watson Creek catchment.

Runoffs with contaminants and pollutants from the intense site activities will flow from the catchment zone into the Ramsar-listed Westernport Bay and the Yaringa Marine National Park, causing devastating consequences to marine life and migratory birds, the group argues.

“A development of this scale will irreversibly change the nature of our unique and fragile landscape.

“It will override Mornington Peninsula Planning Scheme objectives and contradict Green Wedge environment protection policies.

“It will disregard Environmental Significance Overlay directives and compromise Ramsar agreements.”

Mr Gobbi said the temple would be just a nightmare for anyone who lives within two kilometres of this place.

“With the worship activities seven days a week and two 24 hours events per year planned, the community is very concerned about noise levels and the effects that will have on residents’ stock and wildlife,” he said.

“There are two bell towers that are 11 metres high.

“This is a residential rural area. A lot of people have horses and animals. That will just set them off.”

Mr Gobbi said the traffic implication also needs to be taken into account.

“The proposed development is located on the bend of a single lane section of Westernport Highway with a 100km per hour speed limit,” he said.

“Cars will need to turn from here into a small dirt road to access the site.

“It’s just gonna be dangerous, especially with the amount of traffic expected.”

Pearcedale residents are not the only cohorts who show a degree of concern for the largescale places of worship development in Green Wedge Zones.

A Planning for Melbourne’s Green Wedges and Agricultural Land (PMGWAL) consultation paper in 2020 shows since 2014, 34 applications have been submitted for places of worship on rural land across the Green Wedge Zones.

“A range of faiths and cultures have sought to establish community facilities in relatively remote locations where land is relatively affordable and can accommodate large gatherings without causing nuisance,” the consultation paper states.

Nearly 40 per cent of all permit applications for new places of worship in the Green Wedge Zones have been appealed to VCAT as they are considered to erode green wedge and peri-urban values, character and landscapes, result in loss of productive agriculture land, and create conflict between urban and non-urban uses of land.

The Peninsula Green Wedge Protection Group states that approval of the Pearcedale development will set a dangerous precedent and invite similar proposals for other large, inappropriate buildings and intensive activities

within the Mornington Peninsula Green Wedge that destroys the landscape and severely compromise the environment and rural amenity of the area.

“It is vital that this development is rejected,” the group says.

“There is no need for this development to be constructed in a Green Wedge Zone.

“Building usage and parking requirements would be better accommodated in an urban environment where infrastructure such as roads, sewerage, and accessibility via public transport are already in place and where excessive noise

and lighting will neither harm wildlife nor disrupt nearby residents and livestock.”

MASS has been contacted for comment by Star News.

The upcoming VCAT hearing will run from 19 to 24 February in 2024.

A compulsory mediation meeting is scheduled on 22 November for all parties to try and negotiate a middle ground.

To support the protection of Mornington Peninsula Green Wedge Zones, visit their GoFundMe page: gofundme.com/f/save-pearcedaleand-our-green-wedge

12633268-JB37-23

Pearcedale residents have launched a legal fund ahead of a VCAT hearing against a large temple development in the Mornington Peninsula Green Wedge.

Non-profit multilingual Hindu organisation Melbourne Ayyappa Seva Sangam (MASS) is seeking construction approval for a place of worship on the corner of Dandenong-Hastings Road and South Boundary Road West in rural Pearcedale.

The $4.5 million project proposed by MASS will be constructed on ten acres of farmland with several temples, car parks, and facilities to host events to cater for over 1000 visitors.

The 2021 census data from ABS shows 368 people practices Hinduism in the Mornington Peninsula Shire, amounting to 0.2 per cent of the Shire’s population. Locals and individuals from the broader community have established a Peninsula Green Wedge Protection Group to oppose the proposed development and advocate the protection of Green Wedge land across Victoria since February 2022.

Since the formulation of the Peninsula Green Wedge Protection Group, more than 800 members have joined the group. There have been 333 formal objections since the submission of the planning application on December 2021.

Mornington Shire Council failed to make a decision within the required 60 days, and so the application has now been referred to the VCAT to bypass council and gain approval.

Peninsula Green Wedge Protection Group has created a fundraising page on GoFundMe to fund legal representation and key witnesses to support its case at VCAT. Resident Craig Gobbi will represent more than 80 locals at the fiveday VCAT hearing. On behalf of Peninsula Green Wedge Protection Group, he said they were not against any religion and they had nothing but goodwill to the MASS and its members.

“We are happy for them to build a temple, but it needs to be not in a Green Wedge, an environmentally sensitive zone,” he said.

“A proposal such as this is incongruent with the surrounding area.

“Not only do residents value the rural landscape and amenity offered by the Green Wedge, but a major development such as this threatens the local flora and fauna, the bio-diversity of the site and has far-reaching ecological impacts.”

Mr Gobbi said the Green Wedge Zones were set up by the State Government 40 years ago, specifically for rural enterprises and conservation.

“It is for your horse, your agriculture, and your grown vegetables,” he said. “You live the rural lifestyle out here. You got dirt roads. That’s what it’s for. It is not for major developments.”

According to Department of Transport and Planning in Victoria, there are 12 designated non-urban areas across 17 municipalities around metropolitan Melbourne known as Green Wedge Zones.

Each Green Wedge Zone has unique features and serves particularly important functions including agriculture uses, forestry and landbased aquaculture, renewable and non-renewable resources, infrastructure sites, extractive industries, tourism and recreation features, built and natural heritage, and other environmental assets.

Prior to the Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP) by Amendment VC103 in September 2013, places of worship were prohibited uses in green wedge zones.

The 2013 amendment allows discretionary uses of places of worship that are considered appropriate.

Peninsula Green Wedge Protection Group is concerned the construction and future activities of the temple will destroy the significant environmental values of the proposed site.

The group says the site is a relatively natural bush block designated Green Wedge Zone 2 and is covered by an Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO2), status “Endangered Grassy Woodland”.

“The site includes valuable vegetation providing wildlife habitat and a wildlife corridor that connects surrounding areas, including the nearby Tyabb Bushland Reserve,” the group states.

“Native wildlife seen here includes possums, koalas, snakes, tawny frogmouths and powerful owls.

“A body of water at the lower end of the block provides habitat for a range of aquatic birds including ducks, cormorants, herons, and egrets.”

Thursday, 12 October, 2023

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

All actors and guests take group pictures.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Choir shines in celebration

By Violet Li Edelweiss Casey Choir has brightened up the Hallam Community Theatre with a cultural performance to celebrate Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival and Chinese National Day on Saturday 7 October.

Themed Mid-Autumn Greetings, Endless Homesickness, the cultural extravaganza welcomed guests from various backgrounds to mark the unique blend of two big moments for Chinese communities.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is recognised as one of the most important festivals in Chinese culture.

Falling on 29 September this year, it observes traditions of reuniting with the family to worship the moon, savouring moon cakes, and praying for a spouse, beauty, longevity or a good fortune.

Chinese National Day is celebrated annually on 1 October, following the Mid-Autumn Festival.

The event has seen the presence of Song Chong Sheng (who is Consul of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne) and his wife, Xiao Ying (Consul of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne), former State MP Luke Donnellan, Victorian Multicultural Ambassador Zhao Jie Bao, Federation of Chinese Association Victoria former president Qian Heng Yu, and Federation of Chinese Association Victoria executive vice president Zheng Chang Zhen.

Chisholm MP Dr Carina Garland sent a message to extend her best wishes for the choir’s successful performance.

The director of the Edelweiss Casey Choir, Dr Emily Hu opened the celebratory performance by expressing her gratitude to the government, sponsors, and the ConsulateGeneral of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne.

She emphasised the choir’s essence - elegance, wisdom, practicality, and warmth - and their dedication to enriching Victoria’s multiculturalism.

The performance showcased a diverse array of cultural theatrics, including a Mongolian dance, Guzheng solo, Beijing opera singing, and Spanish bullfight dance.

The event reached its zenith with a lavish meal and a raffle event offering prizes, including champagne, face masks, eyelashes, shapewear, and a Hisense air conditioner.

Attendees received a taste of Chinese tradition as they were gifted moon cakes handmade by the choir members.

Over 600 moon cakes were crafted as a symbolisation of the spirit of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Before the show ran out, Edelweiss Casey Choir extended their appreciation to all attendees for joining them in the celebration of culture, unity, and a sense of belonging.

Dr Hu said the Edelweiss Casey Choir’s Mid-Autumn Greetings, Endless Homesick14 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

The celebratory event opened with the drama: Tale of Mid-Autumn. 364930 Picture: ROB CAREW

Colour and spectacular settings are presented on stage during the Tale Picture: ROB CAREW of Mid-Autumn drama. 364930

Actors performing Qibao Show.

Singers performing chorus. ness cultural performance is not only a celebration of Chinese culture but also a testament to the harmony that can be achieved when diverse communities come together.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Special guests watched the performance. 364930 “It served as a reminder that regardless of our backgrounds,” she said.

“We all share the universal language of music and the warmth of togetherness,

Picture: ROB CAREW

thanks in no small part to the tireless efforts of their music director Moli Xu, whose dedication and talent made this successful event possible.” pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Girls setting the bar high A squad of 10-year-old gymnasts from Funtastic Gymnastics in Berwick have once again proved they are among the best groups across the country, taking out fifth place overall in the National Clubs Carnival Gymnastics Competition recently.

Consisting of six girls, the Level 5 squad competed against 500 others across the country during the competition in the Gold Coast from Thursday 28 September to Saturday 30 September.

Qualifying for the Division A final, the squad challenged other clubs from across the country in bars, beam, floor and vault, taking home the silver medal in bars, the bronze medal in beam, fifth place in floor and sixth place in vault.

Head coach Janet Howe she was proud of the girls’ achievements, especially against well-funded clubs featuring international gymnasts who are training to compete in the Olympics.

“It was quite a phenomenal effort,” she said.

“We’re a very small club.”

The squad competes within the Australian Levels Program (ALP) as part of the competi-

tive Women’s Artistic Gymnastics (WAG) program, consisting of 10 levels each with strict skill requirements, with level progression only possible by achieving a grading score at competition.

Ms Howe said the squad had been undefeated in Victoria championships for the past two years and this competition was their first time competing outside of the state.

“They’re an extremely strong squad,” she said.

Ms Howe said their club always aimed to create a balance between encouraging competitiveness and creating fun.

“We will always have it at this level,” she said.

“Our kids only train 16 hours a week.”

Ms Howe said she was “very confident” the squad would become state champs at this weekend’s Victorian State Championships on Saturday 14 October.

“The Funtastic Gymnastics gymnasts from ALP levels 4, 5, 6 and 7 will all compete in the junior Victorian Gymnastics Championships this weekend,” she said.

The Level 5 team were looking forward to the state championships this weekend. 365570

The Funtastic Gymnastics team were pleased with their results. 365570

Phoebe, Arianna, Isla, Sophia, Gabriela and Elizabeth. 365570

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

AC C A 6 OMPA N – PI ECE IED B BAN Y A D 2 D ND AN CER S

The Australian

Whitney Tribute

Show

Door and bar open at 6.00 - Show starts at 7.30 Light supper provided at interval - Tickets $66 For tickets please visit: www.garfieldpicturetheatre.com.au General enquiries call Fred 0408 584 633

12639691-AI41-23

SATURDAY OCTOBER 21ST 2023

The competitors showed off their skills on the beam. 365570 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 12 October, 2023

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STAR NEWS 15

WHAT’S ON Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre

·

Seniors and Active Retirees in Casey and Cardinia

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.

Explore diverse activities and engage with fellow community members at their open day this weekend. 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 Fun Filled Community Open Day is on Saturday 14 October.

Are you newly retired, new to the area, wanting to enjoy your freedom, or expand your social life?

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities such as weekly social/ chat activities with low key in line dancing if you want to tap your feet and great afternoon teas, day/short and long trips away via coach and flights, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub Lunches, monthly evening dineouts, weekly table tennis club, walking groups, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, and more!

Come along every Thursday at 2pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House in Berwick or every Wednesday at 10am for a coffee at Little Sparrow Fountain Gate. For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.

·

DnD at Orana

· ·

Cranbourne U3A Cranbourne U3A has commenced Term 4 with lots of fun activities planned.

They are having an open day this Friday 13 October from 10am to 1pm, including lots of fun classes, line dancing demonstrations, performances from the singing group and ukelele and guitar players.

The open day will also feature a speaker coming from the Stroke Prevention Association giving a talk on how to prevent a heart attack from noon.

Cranbourne U3A’s normal classes in calligraphy, art, chess, sewing, knitting and card making will also be available to talk to and show you their excellent work.

Members and tutors will be available to show attendees through the rooms and assist you.

Light refreshments, tea and coffee will be served.

Cranbourne U3A’s rooms are in the admin building of the Cranbourne Library, entering from the Casey Radio entrance.

Open day on Friday 13 October from 10am to 1pm.

·

Combined Probus Club Berwick If you are looking for new and exciting activities and a chance to make new friends, Probus can provide the opportunity to join a social club within your community.

The Probus club offers activities such as trips and tours, movies at Cameo Cinemas in Belgrave, theatre events, morning tea and lunches, craft, tenpin bowling, golf, entertaining speakers and much more.

The club meets at the Old Cheese Factory on 34 Homestead Road in Berwick on the first Tuesday of the month at 10am with morning tea, followed by a guest speaker.

At noon, most members adjourn to the Berwick Springs Hotel for lunch.

Vacancies exist and you are welcome to contact the club for an invitation to attend a meeting.

The club is celebrating it’s 30-year anniversary and some celebratory events are planned, including a special Melbourne Cup Day event at the Old Cheese Factory on Tuesday 7 November and the presentation of service awards by Berwick MP Brad Battin at the Christmas meeting on Tuesday 5 December at the Beaconsfield Football Club.

For more information, contact Merilyn Carroll on 0418 536 202 or merimick3@bigpond. com or Ron Lowery on 0439 343 989 or ron.f.lowery@gmail.com or visit berwickcprobus.wixsite.com Old Cheese Factory on the first Tuesday of the month at 10am.

· ·

Dandenong Community Cemetery Walk The Narre Warren and District Family History Group will present stories of Casey Cardinia’s early settlers and others who followed them to the district, who are remembered in this cemetery.

Cost is $10 for adults, with light refreshments included at the end of the 90-minute walk, while a book of the walk will be available for sale on the day.

To make a booking, contact cemeterytours@ nwfhg.org.au or treasurer@nwfhg.org.au Sunday 29 October from 10am at Dandenong Community Cemetery, Kirkham Road, Dandenong.

· ·

16 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

Bunjil Place Gallery until Sunday 12 November from 10am to 4pm from Tuesday to Sunday.

Rotary Club of Casey Interact Bingo Night The Rotary Club of Casey have started an Interact Club with Year 10 students at Foundation Learning Centre in Narre Warren.

Music through the decades - guests are encouraged to dress inspired by their favourite music decade.

Silent auction, raffle and prizes.

All funds raised support Foundation Learning Centre and Doctors Without Borders.

For tickets, visit trybooking.com/events/ landing/1117899 Wednesday 25 October from 6.30pm to 9.30pm at Foundation Learning Centre at 1 Malcolm Court in Narre Warren, with tickets available for $30 for six rounds.

· ·

Garden on Thursday 12 October.

Halloween in Casey Casey residents with a love for all things spooky are invited to Halloween events at Wilson Botanic Park and the Old Cheese Factory.

Tickets are available for both events at $10 for kids and $2.50 for supervising adults.

For more information, visit trybooking.com/ events/landing/1122752 and tickets.bunjilplace.com.au/8929/8930 Wilson Botanic Park is hosting a Fright Walk event from 6pm to 9pm on Saturday 28 October. The Old Cheese Factory will be transformed on Halloween night from 5pm to 9pm with a range of activities and entertainment on offer.

· ·

Church fete Stalls for home made cakes, home made preserves and jams, good used clothing, toys, books, jewellery, lovely fresh vegetables, plants and craft.

St Andrews Berwick Uniting Church, 105 High St, Berwick.

Saturday 14 October from 9am until 2pm.

·Seated Movement Sessions (Chair Dancing)

Would you enjoy exercising from the comfort of your chair?

Join the Berwick Activities Group for some seated movement sessions including fun and uplifting songs and different styles and eras of music. An opportunity to get moving and enjoy the company of others.

Timbarra Community Centre, 20-26 Parkhill Drive, Timbarra Way, Berwick. $8 per session.

Contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863.

Wednesdays from 10.45am to 11.30am.

· ·Craft Classes

Do you enjoy craft making?

Join Berwick Activities Group’s Elizabeth to discover the world of papercraft and have a chat with like minded people.

You will be introduced to a range of papercraft techniques through a new project each week.

Casual attendance is welcome.

Timbarra Community Centre 20-26 Parkhill Drive, Timbarra Way, Berwick $5 per class, all materials supplied.

Contact admin@berwicknc.com.au or phone 9704 1863.

Tuesdays from 10am to noon.

Berwick Springs VIEW Club 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.

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 878 481 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com 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.

· ·

Tom Gleeson’s Gear Hard Quiz Overlord, Master of Tasks and Gold Logie Winner Tom Gleeson has taken the Brass Mug on the road for the past two years with Hard Quiz Live.

Now he’s giving audiences around the country 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

·

Works on Paper 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

· ·Good Day Sunshine - The Benefits · of Gardening Discover the ease of gardening, regardless of your experience and discover with others how a little nurture by nature enables you to slow down the pace and take in the wonders around you.

20-26 Parkhill Drive, Timbarra Way, Berwick.

Booking required and morning tea provided.

Phone 9704 1863 or contact admin@berwicknc.com.au.

10am to 11am at the Berwick Community

· ·

Bush Diwan In Bush Diwan, six contemporary artists respond to a pivotal moment in Sikh history in Australia by exploring the reclamation of identity, forming, gathering and laying foundations of community.

Illuminating two significant, yet little known, moments in Australian history, this project centres on the story of Siva Singh, an early 20th-century regional Victorian resident, Sikh community leader and civil rights campaigner.

Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) is an inclusive tabletop, fantasy, role playing game.

Participants work together with other players to go on adventures in the DnD world.

You can act, explore, instigate, solve problems, and tell stories as you bring their chosen character to life within the game world.

Second Saturday of each month, 1pm to 9pm, Orana Community Place, 16/18 Playwright St, Clyde North.

For enquiries and to book a spot at the table, reach out to Jonathan Whelan at thestoryweaver.dnd@gmail.com

·

Gridiron in the South East The South Eastern Predators Gridiron Club is welcoming people of all ages to come and learn a new sport in an inclusive and friendly environment.

No experience necessary.

1 Newport Road, Clayton South. For more information, visit sepredatorsgridiron.com.au

·

Weekly badminton Badminton for ladies or retired.

All welcome.

Mondays 7pm-9pm and Wednesdays 12pm2.30pm at Hallam Badminton Club, Frawley Road Recreation Reserve; $5.

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Berwick Activities Club As the club heads into its 31st year it wishes to welcome new members to join in the many activities on offer such as New Vogue Dancing, which will see you moving in no time.

Social Wednesdays where you can join in Carpet Bowls, cards, Scrabble and Table Tennis.

Take the opportunity to make new friends and enjoy yourself.

Membership is only 10 dollars with a $5 weekly attendance fee which includes morning tea.

For more information phone David on 0433 566 456 or Bruce 0447 554 475.

·

Pilates Do you want to improve your posture, increase your core strength, increase your energy, improve your flexibility and mobility and decrease stress?

Pilates focuses on increasing core strength and tone of abdominal muscles, lower back, hips and buttocks.

Classes held Tuesday afternoons and Wednesday evenings. $90 per term (10 weeks).

Hall 2, Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Tuesdays 1pm2pm and Wednesdays 7.30pm-8.30pm.

·

Beginners Yoga Balla Balla holds a beginners yoga class that incorporates gentle exercise, breath control and meditation.

The health benefits of regular yoga practice may include lowering blood pressure, improved posture and circulation, and a sense of wellbeing.

Classes available on Thursday afternoons and Thursday evenings. $85 per term (10 weeks).

Hall 1, Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Thursdays, 5.30pm-6.45pm and 7pm-8.15pm.

·

Zumba Do you want to burn calories and blast away fat?

Do you want to de-stress, improve your co-ordination, boost your heart health and meet others wanting to improve their fitness levels?

Zumba is aimed at all ages and fitness levels.

Classes held Tuesday evenings. $80 per term (10 weeks).

Hall 1, Balla Balla Community Centre, Selandra Blvd, Clyde North on Tuesdays 6.30pm7.15pm.

·

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Green sparks fly at Vinnies

By Violet Li Vinnies Cranbourne has officially opened the first electronics sections in Victoria, as part of its state-wide Green Sparks program.

The section is housed separately as part of the shop, offering a large variety of electronic items, from cables to headphones, juicers to bar fridges, fans, light project, lamps, pie makers and vacuum cleaners.

Assistant manager Anthony Hanna said after people came in and donated the items, he and three volunteers would test and tag everything to ensure the safety before the re-sale.

He said the store opened last month and it had been very productive.

“We sold 419 pieces in September, raising revenue of $4615, an average of $11 per case,” he said.

“The revenue that we raised and all the money make for the Vinnies stores goes back into the community.”

Mr Hanna said the purpose of this program was and always would be to help the community in a more vulnerable and less fortunate area.

He recalled that the staff found a very high demand for the electronic items in the area, which drove the expansion of the store.

“Every day there’s different people and sometimes they come for radio, sometimes they come for BHS players, CD players, kettle toasters, and sandwich makers.

“So then we’ve expanded the variety in the range and we’ve got monitors and TVs. “We’re looking to upgrade the technology, any of the new technology stuff.”

Launched in June 2022, Green Sparks is a Victoria-wide Vinnies volunteer-run recycling program to give quality electrical goods a second lease on life, reducing landfills and educating and engaging Vinnies’ customers and the general public to manage their e-waste better.

According to the UN, Australia is the world’s fifth top producers of e-waste with 511,000 tonnes and 27.1 kilograms of waste per person reported in 2019.

Vinnies Victoria’s executive general manager commercial services Jeff Antcliff said Greens Sparks was introduced after a policy change from the Victorian government, aiming to take eWaste out of landfill.

“We worked closely with the Victorian Gov-

Assistant manager Anthony Hanna at Vinnies Cranbourne tests and tags the donated electronic items every day before the environmentally friendly resale as a part of the Green Sparks program. 365508 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS ernment and Sustainability Victoria to receive a grant of just around $250,000,” he said.

“It enabled Vinnies shops across the state to embark on the Green Sparks program.”

Since its inception, Vinnies Green Sparks program has trained over 200 volunteers to be qualified to test and tag an electronic item, making it safe to be sold.

Mr Antcliff said in the past year alone, volunteers had diverted a staggering 120,000 electrical items from landfill, turning them into reusable items.

“That’s thousands of kilos of items saved from e-waste, making us the largest electrical appliance reuse organization in Australia,” he said. “I am very proud of that.”

The program has also generated more than $1.5 million in revenue funding for the St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria’s programs and support for Victorians experiencing disadvantage across the state.

The Vinnies Green Sparks program has recently been recognised as an ABA100® Winner for Marketing Excellence [MXA] in The Australian Business Awards 2023.

Businesses tune in to hear more about cybersecurity

By Violet Li Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce and Neighborhood Watch Casey hosted a free business networking event and a cybersecurity panel on Monday 9 October, aligning with Community Safety Month.

The event helped small and medium business gain insight into the wide issue of what ransomed payouts are used for such as to fund nuclear programs, terrorism, and other foreign activities, how breaches occur and the consequences to a business, and ways to protect and minimise the impact to a business.

President of Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce Ian Wood said the chamber had become increasingly concerned about the rising threat to cybersecurity.

“We want to help local businesses understand and navigate this growing danger,” he said.

“This issue cannot be ignored and so an expert panel was assembled to tackle the problem.”

Cybersecurity expert and managing director of Extreme Networks James Eling attended the event and presented his expertise.

He said it was not only big businesses that were targeted by the potential risk.

“Our small and medium enterprises are political foreign targets, where business data is held to ransom with a goal to illicit funds from victims towards immoral activipakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce and Neighborhood Watch Casey hosted a free business networking event and a cybersecurity panel on Monday 9 October.

Picture: SUPPLIED ties and to destabilise economies,” he said.

Cybersecurity tips were delivered at the event, including checking emails carefully to ensure they are legitimate and not clicking on any suspicious links, practising a zero trust approach and always verifying a

request or message before acting, keeping your computer and mobile software up to date, backing up data regularly and keeping it offsite, and considering using a password manager rather than a spreadsheet stored on personal devices.

President of Neighbourhood Watch Casey Damien Rosario said it was not a matter of ‘if’ rather a matter of ‘when’ your business would be affected by malicious players.

“We can help mitigate threats with education,” he said.

Thursday, 12 October, 2023

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STAR NEWS 17

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Piggy bank in the middle With the cost of living increasing, now is a better time than ever to teach children about the importance of saving money effectively.

With that in mind, financial experts from money.co.uk have compiled a list of their top ten tips for teaching your children about money.

Start with the basics of money and finance How you introduce money to your children will partly depend on their age. A good place to start is getting children comfortable handling cash and coins.

Explain to them how money is used to buy things and that it must be earned before it can be spent.

Speak openly about small financial decisions Start getting your child involved with minor financial decisions, such as which brands and items to buy when shopping.

This way your child is able to understand the decisions you make while also feeling in control of certain financial choices.

Older children could also help with budgeting while shopping if you ask them to keep a running total of the items you buy.

Not only will this help their maths skills, but it can also help them to understand how small items can still add up in price and not everything is affordable on a budget.

Set a good example with your own finances There are no two ways about it, children learn money habits from their parents.

Showing them small activities, such as checking the receipt after your shop or putting

There are so many benefits to teaching your child about money at a young age.

Picture: SHUTTERSTOCK money into savings can start developing positive habits from a young age.

Encourage your child to ask questions without repercussion in this setting.

While you might not necessarily have all the answers, opening up a dialogue is a healthy way for your child to learn more

about finance.

Use pocket money as an incentive for small tasks Using pocket money as an incentive to do chores around the house not only helps you, but it also helps your child learn more about

the value of money and what it takes to earn it. Creating a simple plan with a set amount of money for different tasks, along with caps per week or month, is a great way to help your child start understanding where money comes from.

The relationship between work and money, household chores and pocket money is also a great opportunity to show children how to save.

If your child has shown interest in a more expensive purchase, you could set them up with an old-fashioned piggy bank where they can ‘deposit’ their earnings or create a chart for them to fill out so they can track how much money they have.

James Andrews from money.co.uk encourages parents to teach children how to handle money from a young age.

“Creating an environment where you can speak more openly with your children about financial decisions is key to them gaining an understanding of the value of money,” Mr Andrews says.

“It’s important to make sure your lessons are age-appropriate and that you continue to involve and teach your children about money as they grow - a healthy relationship with finances starts at a young age, and children learn most of their habits from their parents.”

Originally published on www.money. co.uk/.

Meet the Principal Aaron Smith

Helen Staindl

Welcome to Pakenham Secondary College. We are a proud College Community best meeting the needs of our students.

Helen Staindl, our Principal, was born and raised in Gippsland and has been a Principal in Stratford, Melbourne, Geelong and the founding Principal of St Clare’s Catholic Primary School in Officer.

She has studied both internationally and locally and has Masters Degrees in Theology and Education as well as further degrees in Religious Education and Administration.

Helen was a member of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Board for many years and has broad experience in the Catholic and Private sectors and with the International Baccalaureate Program.

Helen has a deep understanding and awareness of student learning and wellbeing. As the Principal of St Clare’s, she has been responsible for establishing a vibrant learning culture at St Clare’s and ensuring that the needs of the students are at the forefront of the growth of the school.

That is why education is her passion. St Clare’s is a Catholic School called to serve the local community, to teach the Catholic faith, to promote educational excellence and to nurture the growth and well-being of all students, families and staff.

At St Clare’s our aim is to have each child reach their potential; to be a well-rounded individual - within a supportive and caring learning environment. Our school has an enrolment of about 600 students with a class size average of about 23 students. Our extensive landscaping and play areas completed in the recent years provides a range of areas for students to explore, learn and play.

Our new College Motto, ‘We Grow Through Connection’, guides us in our approach to education – we can all continue to grow and thrive by developing positive and meaningful connections with others.

At Pakenham Secondary College, we have a real focus on learning growth and wellbeing, together with tailoring pathways that are of interest to our students. We provide an outstanding Teaching and Learning Program that is well supported by extensive co-curricular opportunities in areas important to our students such as Sport, the Performing Arts and Leadership.

We value teamwork at Pakenham Secondary College where families, staff and students all work together to achieve outstanding results. We provide a learning environment that is built on high expectations for all, where all students are engaged in a curriculum that is challenging and diverse.

I am very proud to be the Principal of our great school working alongside colleagues and families who are committed to achieving positive learning and wellbeing outcomes for our students. I am committed to working with our College Community to ensure that we remain the school of choice in our region.

We invite you to come and tour our school on our upcoming Open Day on Saturday 28 October from 10am to 12pm

12624705-JC41-23

12604256-SM20-23

Enquires can be made via calling 5940 6777 or emailing enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au

PAKENHAM SECONDARY COLLEGE

ST CLARE’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL

1020 Princes Highway, Pakenham VIC 3810 Phone (03) 5945 1433 | www.pakenhamsc.vic.edu.au

95 Majestic Drive OFFICER 3809 Phone 5940 6777 | enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au

18 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

New school Important relationships set for 2024 The educational landscape is poised to evolve in Officer, as the brand-new Kurmile Primary School prepares to open its doors in 2024.

This promising establishment is set to become a cornerstone of the local community, offering a beacon of educational excellence.

For parents and residents in the area, it’s essential to explore what Kurmile Primary School has in store.

Located at 40 Fairweather Parade, this school strategically serves the Officer community, ensuring easy access to quality education for local children. Discovering whether your family falls within the school’s zone is as simple as visiting the website, findmyschool. vic.gov.au This resource aids in determining if your residence is in the catchment area, simplifying the process of securing a spot for your child in this promising institution.

Kurmile Primary School strikes a balance between modern and traditional classroom environments.

This equilibrium is vital for nurturing wellrounded, adaptable students who are ready to face the challenges of a changing world.

By embracing traditional classroom settings, the school acknowledges the importance of structure and discipline while equipping students with life skills and knowledge for the future.

In addition to these classroom offerings, Kurmile Primary School boasts impressive facilities that enhance the learning experience.

A full-size gym and community hub underline the school’s dedication to physical fitness and community engagement.

The gym serves not only as a space for sports and activities but also as a center for community gatherings and events, fostering connections beyond the classroom.

Furthermore, the school is committed to providing students with a well-rounded education through specialist classes, including Art, PE, Performing Arts, STEM, and AUSLAN. This diverse curriculum caters to a wide range of talents and interests, fostering creativity, physical fitness, and intellectual curiosity.

Kurmile Primary School’s mission is clear: to provide an exceptional learning environment that combines traditional values with modern educational practices.

This fusion empowers students with the skills, knowledge, and adaptability needed to thrive in a fast-paced world.

As Kurmile Primary School opens its doors in 2024, it symbolises a shared commitment to shaping a better future for the children of Officer and fostering a community that values quality education and growth.

For those seeking more information, the school can be reached via email at kurmile. ps@education.vic.gov.au or by phone at 0475 759 581.

Keeping up with the latest news and developments is made easy by following their Facebook page, ‘Kurmile Primary School’.

A study by Associate Professors Penny Van Bergen and Naomi Sweller of Macquarie University and Professor Linda Graham of QUT shows that students’ memories of good teachers are remarkably consistent, and that strong teacher-student relationships can support positive interactions with future teachers.

The research team conducted a series of interviews with 96 students from grades 3-10. They included students with and without a history of disruptive behaviour in mainstream schools, along with students in special “behaviour schools”.

What united the groups was a belief that their most positive relationships with teachers came when teachers were “kind, caring, helpful, or humorous”. For students with a history of disruptive behaviour, a kind or caring teacher could make the difference between engaging with their schoolwork and walking out of class.

All groups also shared the view that teachers who were hostile or unjust were harder to get along with. Alarmingly, students with a history of disruptive behaviour overwhelmingly remember negative relationships with teachers. For example, one third of students in the behaviour school group couldn’t remember a single positive relationship with a teacher.

Conflictual teacher-student relationships were not limited to disruptive students, however. Forty percent of students with no history of disruptive behaviour also remembered at least one negative relationship. Many of these students were “model” students: prefects, student reps, and school duxes. Students in all groups highlighted pre-emptive reprimands, when they were told off before doing something, as being

Positive interactions with teachers help students feel confident at school. particularly unfair.

The researchers do note that this is only one side of the story, and that teachers may have a different view. These results are still important though, since they show how consistent students’ perceptions of positive and negative relationships are. They also indicate the ways that poor teacher-student relationships can exacerbate classroom challenges.

“Using their memories of conflictual interactions, students may develop protective strategies: either shying away from that teacher or reacting with pre-emptive aggression,” the article says.

The study authors recommend that teachers complement other positive teaching behaviours, such as responsive instruction and individual guidance, with explicit warmth. In the classroom, teachers could reflect on positive interactions with their students by sharing positive memories or identifying each other’s positive characteristics. Similar activities are used in positive psychological interventions to improve student wellbeing.

Opening in 2024

Kurmile Primary School is a brand new school opening in Officer in 2024.

OFFICER PRIMARY SCHOOL

Currently accepting enrolments for Prep – Grade 6 • ‘Traditional’ classroom environments • Full size gym and community hub • Specialist classes projected to include Art, PE, Performing Arts, STEM and AUSLAN. Located at 40 Fairweather Parade.

Go to www.findmyschool.vic.gov.au to see if you’re in our zone.

ENROLMENTS OPEN BOOK A TOUR!

Contact us today! officer.ps@education.vic.gov.au

ENROL NOW For more information: Kurmile.ps@education.vic.gov.au

0475 759 581

Scan the QR Code for enrolment information

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A small school that cares for its families through inclusivity, meaningful learning experiences and respect.

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STAR NEWS 19

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Healthy tummies for kids The age old saying ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ has ensured many children stay healthy and strong with a nutritious, balanced diet for years now - and it’s still just as relevant a saying as any.

To help your children thrive in the classroom, it’s important to be feeding them a healthy, nutritious diet filled with all the energy they need to grow and flourish as young students.

But when life gets busy, it can be hard to ensure the food your family’s eating is covering all the necessary bases, so why not use these handy tips to help boost your child’s

brain power?

Firstly: start your day the right way. Breakfast is often overlooked and sometimes rushed, but this morning meal is one of the most important of the day.

Fuelling up before school with a healthy balanced breakfast will ensure your child has all the energy they need to play, learn and power on throughout the day.

Whole grain cereals and toast are always a quick, easy option and for the colder months, why not try some porridge?

Fresh fruit smoothies, yoghurt, eggs and

beans are all other quick, nutritious ideas… the ideas are limitless.

A healthy lunchbox made up of a mixture of foods will keep your kids happy and eating healthily, and to save on time, try preparing it the night before.

Opt for fresh, unprocessed foods such as pieces of fruit and tubs of yoghurt as sweet treats and avoid processed, sugary foods which provide little to no nutritional value.

A good old fashioned sandwich with wholemeal bread is always a good lunch time staple, and remind your kids to drink plenty of water

throughout the day.

If you struggle to get your kids to drink water, why not try adding a splash of lemon juice, or getting them a fun, colourful water bottle to drink out of?

Dinner ideas are endless, but as long as you’re getting plenty of veggies, some protein and other important nutrients in your diet, your kids will be perfectly placed to make the most out of their education.

And the last tip? By eating healthily yourself, you’ll be leading by example and be a healthy eating role model for your kids into the future.

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Empowering Curious Minds

Find out how our world-class International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program and expert ELC and Junior School staff can help your child flourish in their learning through action in our intimate learning spaces and classes.

Find out more on our website or via the QR code.

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

Non-Selective | Non-Denominational Smaller Classes | Co-Educational ELC and Junior School Dedicated Senior Girls and Boys Schools

StMargarets.vic.edu.au pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Grow through connection Thinking about a secondary school for 2024?

The College Principal, Mr. Aaron Smith, invites you to consider Pakenham Secondary College for your child in 2024 and beyond.

Our College Motto, ‘We Grow Through Connection’, will best support our College Community in the years to come. Our SOAR Values of Social and Personal Responsibility, Opportunities for All, Achieving Your Personal Best and developing Respectful Relationships align well to support our College Motto and guide our College Community to achieve its goals.

At Pakenham Secondary College we are committed to positive relationships. We understand that student growth is linked to the positive and meaningful connections that they have with others. At Pakenham Secondary College, we are dedicated to further improving the learning and wellbeing outcomes of all of our students by building respectful, positive and productive connections with our College Community.

Pakenham Secondary College strives to provide opportunities in areas important to our College Community - Growth in Learning, Wellbeing and Pathways Support, the Performing Arts, Sport and Student Leader-

ship and Our Community. These opportunities are underpinned by our important work in supporting Student Wellbeing. Our new multi million dollar building program (set to commence in 2024) will further add to our outstanding buildings and grounds.

With a rich 50 year plus history in our region, we continue to be well placed in offering a personalised approach to teaching and learning ensuring that we best work with students to tailor individual pathways important to them. We provide outstanding opportunities for our students in the classroom and as part of our co-curricular program.

We are a school that continues to be on the move. Our standing in the community has always been strong and now it is getting even stronger. We have a dedicated and hardworking staff who are committed to our students.

Our students want to succeed in a way that is important to them, and we will continue to provide pathways opportunities that they are interested in.

There is a very strong sense of community at Pakenham Secondary College with students, families and staff connecting strongly to get the best outcomes we can for our students. We

Pakenham Secondary College Principal Aaron Smith with his students. are very proud of our College and what we represent including how we best support all of our students. I am thrilled to be the Principal of our great school, and I look forward to working with families, students and staff into the future to get the very best outcomes for our students.

I want to welcome families to the Pakenham Secondary College Community. I very much looking forward to showing prospective

families around our great school as part of a College Tour.

Aaron Smith, College Principal - Pakenham Secondary College Book a College Tour through our website at pakenhamsc.vic.edu.au or call the office on 5945 1433

Nurturing academic, spiritual and emotional growth St James Catholic Primary School is committed not only to the academic growth of students but also to their emotional and spiritual development. We plan for learning in an inclusive and safe environment where high quality Catholic Education is consistently delivered with an emphasis on improving learning outcomes for all children. This is why we hold our students at the centre of all decision making.

Our experienced and nurturing staff are passionate educators who work towards all children reaching their full potential by providing engaging and individualised learning experiences. We have a strong focus on student wellbeing, fostering teamwork, resilience

and confidence.

We recognise parents as the first and foremost educators of their child, who, before students have even begun school have learnt to be curious, ask questions and investigate their world. They have learnt from their parents the importance of being responsible, respectful and safe. At St James we strive to continue this work and partner closely with parents to further build on this solid foundation, focusing on the development and promotion of the whole child.

Last week we started the term with an amazing visit from Wild Action Wildlife Sanctuary.

Our children were able to get up and personal

with native animals and ask questions of the presenter. Some of our children were heard to exclaim “best start to term ever!”. Not only was this visit to kick start our biological science learning and is also just one example of how we strive to provide stimulating and engaging learning at St James. Students and staff alike stepped outside their comfort zones as they encountered species such a python, crocodile,

owl and goanna and did so with many giggles and much courage.

We are currently taking enrolments for 2024 for all year levels and conducting school tours.

Please contact 5942 5404 or office@stjamesnng.catholic.edu.au to arrange a school tour with our Principal, Bec Kollaris.

St James Primary School is at 60 Nar Nar Goon Road, Nar Nar Goon, 5942 5404.

Year 7 2024 Information Session

Wed 25th October at 6pm This event is for the parents/carers of Year 6 students attending our College in 2024. Important transition details will be provided at this session. This will be followed by a briefing by Edunet, our Preferred Education Laptop Provider, who will deliver information on their 2024 program at 6:30pm.

St James Primary School has experienced and nurturing staff who are passionate educators who work towards all children reaching their full potential.

St James Catholic School Committed to your child’s academic, spiritual & emotional development

Mon 11th December 2023 & Tue 12th December 2023

Where every student is known, nurtured & respected.

Pakenham Secondary College 1020 Princes Highway Pakenham VIC 3810 Phone (03) 5945 1433 Website pakenhamsc.vic.edu.au /pakenhamsc @pakenhamsecondarycollege Connect with us

ENROL NOW FOR 2024 | 5942 5404 60 Nar Nar Goon Rd, Nar Nar Goon www.stjamesnng.catholic.edu.au/ 12634388-JB41-23

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Year 7 2024 Transition Days

Visit our website or call our office to book a tour Thursday, 12 October, 2023

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STAR NEWS 21

St Clare’s Catholic Primary School in Officer Enrol now for

2024 & 2025 Open Day Saturday 28 October 10am to 12pm Please contact the school now to make a booking Ph 5940 6777 St Clare’s Primary School Officer Officer 3809 Phone 03 5940 6777 Email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic.edu.au 12624694-KO37-23 22 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Young stars pitch for glory Primary school footballers battled it out for trophies at a Dandenong-district tournament on Friday 6 October.

St John’s Regional College hosted teams from Carwatha College, Minaret College and Dandenong, Dandenong North, Dandenong South, Dandenong West, Lyndale Greens, Rosewood Downs, St Gerard’s, St Mary’s and Wooranna Park primary schools.

Among the winners were two girls teams from Dandenong South Primary School, as well as boys sides from Rosewood Downs Primary and Dandenong North Primary.

Greater Dandenong mayor Eden Foster, along with Melbourne City A-League players Will Sparrow and Patrick Hogan, presented the cups.

Rosewood Downs Primary School’s Yehia on the ball. 356714

Dandenong South Primary School’s winning captains of both divisions Aleesa, Jaida, Hasanat and Maysoon. 356714

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

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Stirring trouble

By Mitchell Clarke

Stirring trouble

By Mitchell Clarke It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing any-

It was the initiative that dished up smiles during lockdown, but now a decrepit looking Spoonville site in Pakenham is providing anything but joy.

During the one hour exercise limit - which is now a distant memory - Spoonville sites across Cardinia Shire were the most popular place to visit.

Despite the fad having died down entirely, the Cardinia Lakes community was understandably upset at news their local site appeared to have been targeted by cruel vandals.

Estate resident Laksika noticed the destroyed site during her daily walk on Sunday 24 January.

“I think someone has just walked over it or kicked them all over. It’s very sad to see it. We always used to stop there and have a look for new ones,” she wrote on Facebook.

The reaction from her neighbours was similar.

“Absolutely disgusting. The highlight of our walk is our toddler stopping to look and admire the spoons,” one local woman said.

“That’s so disappointing. My kids had spoons in there,” another woman added.

Pakenham Hills Ward councillor Jack Kowarzik said the news was “really frustrating”.

“Spoonville was created by locals for the enjoyment of local children and to see it vandalised is disappointing,” he said.

Cardinia Art Society president Jillian Ronald described Spoonville as an “amazing initiative” during Melbourne’s lengthy lockdown.

“It’s given joy and positivity in some very dark times and I just think it’s really disappointing that, when the community put together a project to support each other during a difficult time, that someone would take the trouble to destroy it. They’d be better off going home to create a spoon and putting it with

In happier times - Maci, Willow and Aubrey at a Pakenham Spoonville site. 214450 the rest,” she said.

“I’d suggest there’s much better things they could do with their time.”

The ‘Spoonville’ trend was born out of Winnersh, England, in an attempt to improve mental health by simply making people happy as they were out and about during daily exercise.

The quirky saga soon made its way to Cardinia - after Australia’s first ever site was constructed up the highway in Longwarry.

Within weeks, the site had spread to Pakenham, Officer, Garfield, Nar Nar Goon, Emerald and Beaconsfield.

Ms Ronald acknowledged the Spoonville craze had now hit a dead end.

“They’re getting a little bit tired, so maybe it’s time for the spoons to come home,” she said.

Ms Ronald, who commissioned the two local sites at Lakeside in Pakenham, encouraged community members to collect their spoons from their local sites.

She added that in mid-February she’d look to clean up all remaining Spoonville’s and relocate any leftover spoons to an “undisclosed location”.

The once popular Spoonville trend appears to have hit a dead end.

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Will Sparrow and Patrick Hogan from Melbourne City FC. 356714 pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

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STAR NEWS 23

NEWS

Mayor running for Mulgrave

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong mayor Eden Foster has been endorsed as Labor’s candidate in the upcoming Mulgrave by-election.

She said she would be “honoured” to be voted in as a state MP, replacing former Premier Daniel Andrews who stepped away from his 21 years in the seat as of Wednesday 27 September.

“I’ve lived in the suburbs of the Mulgrave electorate and the immediate area all of my life.

“I love these communities and have served them as a councillor and the mayor of the City of Greater Dandenong.

“Working in and with these communities is what drives me every day.

“I would be honoured to continue that work as a representative in the Victorian Parliament.”

Foster said she will take leave-of-absence from her councillor and mayoral duties from Tuesday 10 October to focus on campaigning.

“Relationships between state government and local government should always be constructive and positive, and I’ve cherished that cooperation.

“But my priorities now are about Mulgrave and the State Parliament.

“The communities in Mulgrave want me completely focused on Mulgrave and how the Allan Labor Government is serving them.

“That’s my focus too.”

Foster nominated “everyday costs for families” as her main issue, along with education, health and continued infrastructure rebuilding.

“For rent, for mortgage repayments, for simple groceries – this issue is front of mind for me, for our new Premier Jacinta Allan and indeed our former Premier and member for

Mulgrave Daniel Andrews.

“We know that any working person struggling to make ends meet could do with our help right now.”

She may be opposed by another Greater Dandenong councillor Rhonda Garad, who is running for preselection as the Greens candidate. The Greens are expected to choose their candidate on 13 October.

“If I’m chosen, I’ll be standing because there’s some really, really serious issues to be canvassed.”

Those concerns included the Government’s “financial mismanagement” and “debt” which would take money away from important services, Garad said.

“People are angry that $400 million was just thrown away in a cavalier way on the Commonwealth Games when people are really struggling.”

She also slammed the Government’s lack of preparation for expected summer heatwaves.

“People are living in houses that are hot boxes, we’re likely to be in heat stress. We should be on a war footing for what’s happening.

“And I don’t hear any reassurance from the State Government.

Garad regarded Mulgrave as a “safe Labor seat” but it was an “opportunity for people to be heard”.

I Cook Foods owner Ian Cook is re-contesting the seat as an independent.

He finished second on primaries against Andrews in the 2022 state election.

Greater Dandenong mayor Eden Foster has been endorsed as Labor’s candidate in the Mulgrave by-election. 362841 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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STAR NEWS 25

SPORT

Lions nab Carbis as coach

By Marcus Uhe A suite of talented youngsters and an impressive finish to the year made the decision to apply for the senior coaching role at Pakenham an easy one for incoming coach Paul Carbis.

Carbis comes to Toomuc Reserve on a multi-year deal with a wealth of experience under his belt at the local level, including premiership success at Leongatha in 2018 and Gippsland Coach of the Year honours in 2019, following stints with Casey and Frankston in the VFL Development League, and most recently, at Garfield in the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition.

He replaces Ash Green, who led the club to a Division One runner-up finish against Doveton in 2019 and a semi-final loss against Woori Yallock in 2023, the club’s best finish in the Outer East’s Premier Division to date, in his second period as the club’s senior coach.

It was those performances in September against Upwey Tecoma and Woori Yallock that crystallised Carbis’ ambitions for the role.

“They were pretty impressive when I went and watched them and I’d be mad not to put my hand up,” Carbis said.

“Ash Green has built a really good footy team and they’ve got the basis of a team that can really go further.

“They’ve got some really good young players and are a big footy club, so I’d be mad not to apply and there are some exciting times ahead for the footy club.”

Carbis headlines a raft of changes at the club following an extensive review of the football department, with a new reserves coach in Matthew Vaiano replacing Shane Easton, and James Perkins appointed as the club looks to reboot its Under-19 program after not fielding

Paul Carbis will coach Pakenham in 2024 after leading Garfield for the previous two seasons.

286192 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS a team in 2023.

While on-field, a number of new faces have put pen to paper, including Officer ruck Kaleb Brice and Cora Lynn trio Kade Perkins, Jai Rout and Caelen Addis, to join recommitted stars Jordan Stewart, Jake Barclay, Stephen Morey and Tahj De La Rue. “It is a brand new start and not only exciting for the coaching group but also the playing group,” Carbis said.

“If you’re going to change the senior coach then it’s as good a time as any to get a new under 19s coach.

“They didn’t have a 19s side last year so they’ve got players coming back to fill those spots.

“Matt (Vaiano), who’s been at the club and is now our reserves coach, it gives him an opportunity and I’ll be developing both those coaches.

“It’s what I’ve done in the past, not only coaching players but coaching coaches as well so that we’re all on the same page.

“I’m there for the long term as long as the club will have me and that’s how you sustain success, you get that stability right throughout the club.”

He described himself as an “educator” as coach and does not feel that success is too far away.

The Lions held a three-point lead at the final change in the first semi-final against Woori Yallock before conceding six-goals-to-four in the final team to fall 13 points short.

It was the second time they had had taken the fight right up to the previous season’s runner up, while having also kept Wandin to under 100 points twice and Narre Warren once in impressive performances against the competition’s benchmarks.

“There’s some raw talent there and I think if we can structurally set up a little better and add to what they’ve done, I think we’re very close,” Carbis said.

“There were parts of that Woori Yallock game where they were tremendous and then they let Woori get a couple of goals and let it slip a little bit, but they kept fighting it out.

“The grand final showed that, I think everyone would have tipped a close game and that Narre Warren might have got up, but if you’re on and you work hard for it, Wandin have showed that you can do anything.

“I think that’s pretty exciting and from what I’ve seen, in my short time, is that the whole league is quite close; anyone can really knock each other off at any stage depending on the players that are out there and the mental capacity of the group.”

Stokes sets the bar high after Angel wins the Danehill

By David Nagel Pakenham trainer Phillip Stokes will aim his promising filly Stretan Angel at the prestigious $2million Group-1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) after an impressive victory in the Danehill Stakes (1100m) at Flemington on Saturday.

Renowned as a slow starter with a strong finishing burst, the three-year-old daughter of Harry Angel/Stretan enjoyed a change of tactics from jockey Damian Lane to dictate the terms of the race.

Stretan Angel was on-pace throughout, and settled down for a thrilling two-horse war with popular-elect I Am Unstoppable to claim victory in the shadows of the post.

She has now had four career starts and boasts the impressive record of two wins and two seconds as Stokes progresses her through the ranks.

Races don’t come much bigger for threeyear-olds than the Coolmore, with a list of winners including Vain, Manikato, Alinghi, Weekend Hussler and In Secret just to name a few.

“She’s got to go there (Coolmore) now, it’s going to be harder, but she proved that she’s up to them today,” Stokes said post-race.

“Her coat’s come on: as we do with all our horses she went up to our farm, she spent the week up there and she’s just starting to bloom now.

“I still think she’s only 85 percent, so it’s exciting going into her next run.

“We came here today knowing how much improvement we had to come, so she’s done a super job.”

Stokes said he was surprised to see Stretan Angel camped on pace after coming from well back in the field to run second to Shesallshenanigans in the Cap D’Antibes Stakes at Flemington on September 16.

“That was a surprise, she’s always out the back and you’re hoping for luck, but she jumped well today and she’s taken a lot out of her first-up run,” he said.

Lane said there was no preconceived plan to turn her racing pattern on its head.

“It’s just how things unfolded,” he explained.

“I was hoping that I could get her to begin better than she had been, but certainly by no stretch was I planning to be second in the run.

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Thursday, 12 October, 2023

Damian Lane gets the best out of Stretan Angel (9) in the Danehill Stakes at Flemington on Saturday. 365998 Pictures: PAT SCALA/RACING PHOTOS

Coolmore, here we come! Pakenham trainer Phillip Stokes has grand plans for his promising three-year-old Stretan Angel. 365998 “But the opportunity was there and the pace was only steady, so it gave her a really good run in transit.”

Lane said more natural improvement would see Stretan Angel right in the mix in the Coolmore.

“Now she’s shown a bit of tactical versatility: she’s tough, she’s quick, and Phillip (Stokes) said she would improve out of the first-up run and I dare say she’ll improve again.

Daniel Stackhouse sticks to the fence to score aboard Life Lessons in the Rose of Kingston Stakes. 365998

“She looks right on track for a Coolmore.”

Pakenham trainers made it a running double at head-quarters on Saturday with the Peter Moody/Katherine Coleman-trained Life Lessons scoring an upset victory in the $300,000 Group-2 Rose of Kingston Stakes (1400m).

The five-year-old mare put the writing on the wall with a gallant second to Cox Plate favourite Amelia’s Jewell at her last start.

“We’re thrilled with her; she’s come on

well from that run behind Amelia’s Jewell, she couldn’t have done much more that day,” Coleman explained after claiming her first Group-2 victory as a co-trainer.

“She’s maintained her condition, and we brought her here today thinking she’d run very well.”

Life Lessons was given a gun ride by jockey Daniel Stackhouse and held off the $1.65 favourite Princess Grace to claim the fourth win of her blossoming 11-start career. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Lions edge past Cougars

By David Nagel Pakenham (8/153) has set up a blockbuster round-two against flag-fancies Tooradin after the Lions held off a brave Clyde (8/149) in the CCCA season opener at Ramlegh Reserve on Saturday.

The Lions chipped away before tea, with a 42-run stand between Dale Tormey (41) and Dom Paynter (26) the biggest partnership of their innings.

Brett Reid (7-1-26-3) did the bulk of the damage for the Cougars, while off-spinner Dan Lever (8-0-19-2) proved hard to manipulate through the middle overs.

The Lions made the perfect start with the ball, with the dangerous Trevor Bauer (2) back in the sheds early, with Tommy Tyrrell (8-3-112) making the early breakthrough.

Reid (24) was rock-solid through the middle, with Ben Buller (36) sharing partnerships with Kane Avard (12) and Dev Brijesh (23 not out) to bring the Cougars to the precipice of victory.

But the Lions held their nerve, with James Close (7-0-33-2) important with wickets of Reid and Avard and the experience of Jason Williams and Paynter combining for a crucial late run-out.

Tooradin (7/249) has wasted no time retaining its reputation as a high-scoring team after making light work of Carlisle Park (158).

With boom recruits Mick (52 off 46) and Peter Sweeney (55 off 42) joining forces with former-captain Cal O’Hare (64 off 69), the Seagulls top-order laid down an early marker.

After Mick Sweeney won the toss, O’Hare and Josh Lownds (23 off 45) put on 53 for the first wicket to settle the first-round nerves.

The new skipper then joined the former, putting on a 93-run second-wicket stand to

Pakenham opener Tommy Tyrrell sends one down to Clyde’s Mahie Bodahandi. 365480 Picture: ROB CAREW take control of the contest.

Kasun Balasuriya (8-1-34-3) and skipper Ben Perry (8-0-55-2) battled hard for the Vikings, who battled in reply.

Brad Butler (7-1-40-3) made the initial breakthroughs, leaving Dave Nutting (5) and Ethan de Vries (4) both reeling.

Star-seamer Russ Lehman (8-0-33-3) then claimed the next three wickets to fall…the Vikings languishing at 5/43 after 14.

Balasuriya (48) capped off a fine all-round performance, and added respectively to the scoreboard, with a 76-run partnership with

Mark Henry (35).

Butler then had Henry caught by Lehman to trigger a rapid close to proceedings.

The frugal Kallan Braid-Ball (8-3-11-2) joined the party late to join Butler and Lehman on the multiple-wicket-takers list.

Kooweerup (6/80) made enough inroads with the ball before tea to score a four-wicket win over Cardinia (79).

The Bulls were at sixes-and-sevens early, with Luke McMaster (6-1-16-1) trapping Travis Welsh (4) in front, before his brother Adam (70-28-2) claimed the key scalp of the dangerous

Morteza Ali (5).

The Bulls just couldn’t gain any momentum, with Rob Maskiell (8-1-14-3) and Joel Anderson (6-1-15-2) following on from the opening spell of the ‘brothers’.

Suchintha Lakshan (3-1-5-2) was another to hit the right spots.

A ninth-wicket stand of 23, between Caleb Boswell (15) and skipper Dean Henwood (7) was the largest partnership of the innings.

The Demons made a steady start in reply, with Steve Dillon (20), Chris Bright (17) and Luke McMaster (15) all getting starts…with the score stuttering to 2/61.

Josh Browne (5-0-23-2) did the initial damage, but it wasn’t until Ali found his length that this one came to life.

The big-ripping spinner claimed Gamini Kumara (8), McMaster (0) - of the Adam variety – and had Dillon caught by Henwood to have the hosts treading water at 5-62.

When Ali then bowled Mitch Davey (1) a short-time later, the Demons were 6/64 and in danger of a major capitulation.

But Lachie Ramage (11 not out) has made a welcome return to the Demons this season, and his steady left-hand technique piloted the Dees to a first-up win.

Ali (8-3-14-4) was brilliant for the Bulls.

And a century from boom-recruit Bevin Corneille (104) from just 11 balls has piloted Merinda Park (5/187) to a five-wicket victory over Devon Meadows (7/183).

Corneille and Dan McCalman (32 not out) were the key figures in the run chase after Rumesh Ranasinghe (8-0-30-3) had set things up with the ball.

Lucas Carroll (47) and Lucas Ligt (46) were best for the Panthers.

Wombats show some ticker

It was all smiles for Paky One’s Shane, Damo, Noel, Sheryll, Paul and Keith after knockingPicture: DAVID NAGEL off Warriors. 321895

Paky One makes statement

By Marcus Uhe Paky One has sent a message to the rest of the South West Gippsland Dart League with a shock 10-5 upset win over Warriors.

A combined nine tons from dynamic duo Noel (five) and Shane (four) saw Paky One leap Gembrook into fourth place on the table and inflict the Warriors just their second loss of the campaign, despite a monster eight-ton performance from Liam that saw him reclaim his spot at the top of the Tons leaderboard.

It was a missed opportunity for the Warriors, who could have snatched second place from Snipers, who had their bye this week.

The Warriors’ loss and Just Social’s 12-3 win over Gembrook, however, saw the ladder leader move a game clear of the chasing pack.

Wolf was vicious for Just Social, throwing his second 180 of the season and a peg of 108. pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au

The remainder of results in round eight went largely to script.

Mud Rats climbed one place to sixth after a 15-0 clean sweep of Hoodies, trading places with the 26ers despite their 12-3 defeat of Fore.

Meanwhile, Stephen’s Bullseyes snuck home 8-7 against Thom’s Rebels.

Just three weeks of competition remain before the Winter season’s finals get underway, with nine of the 11 sides eligible for finals action.

Results R8: Mud Rats 15 v Hoodies 0, Paky One 10 v Warriors 5, Just Social 12 v Gembrook 3, Bullseyes 8 v Rebels 7, 26ers 12 v Fore 3.

Ladder: Just Social 28, Snipers 24, Warriors 24, Paky One 20, Gembrook 16, Mud Rats 16, 26ers 16, Rebels 8, Bullseyes 8, Fore 0, Hoodies 0.

Fixture R9: Rebels (8) v Gembrook (5), Hoodies (11) v Paky One (4), Fore (10) v Just Social (1), Warriors (3) v Mud Rats (6), Bullseyes (9) v Snipers (2). 26ers – Bye.

VETERAN’S CRICKET Sunday 8 October was the second round of the Victorian Over 70’s cricket competition and the game between the West Gippsland Wombats and Mornington/Canterbury was moved from Korumburra to Iona as the oval at Korumburra was still under water.

The Wombats won the toss and decided to field first.

It is amazing what a difference a week makes.

Not only was the weather ideal for cricket but the Wombats’ cricket had improved greatly as they took wickets in the eighth and ninth overs.

Dick Stumbles 8 (20) was LBW to the bowling of Bob Phillips and Phil Mayne 13 (30) was bowled by Geoff Birnie and Mornington/Canterbury was 2 for 26.

In the 14th over Anthony Stancombe 5 (18) was run out by a direct throw from Pieter Loos that hit the wicket from 15 meters away.

Brendon Thomas was not to be outdone by Loos, as Thomas hit the wicket side on from 25 meters away to run out Ian Sharp 12 (19).

The score was 94 in the 25th overs, when the Mornington/Canterbury’s captain, Michael Angwin 7 (9) was the fifth wicket to fall, as he was caught by Brendon Thomas off the bowling of Keith Houghton.

Ian Rowland 25 (30), Charles Morris 21 (30) and Bill Hanson had retired before Michael Loy 6 (5) was caught by Mike Newton off the bowling of Pieter Loos.

Stanley Pamieta 6 (5) was then bowled by Jin Gregory.

The first retiree Ian Rowland returned to join Vin Booth and after 40 overs they were both not out.

Rowland made 36 (35) and Booth 8 (10) and the score was 7 for 183.

Wombats Bowling: Pieter Loos 6-1/28, Jim Gregory 5-1/27, Bob Phillips 6-1/30, Geoff Birnie 6-1/14, Keith Houghton 4-1/8, Mike Newton 3-0/18, Dallas Wyatt 6-0/32, Jon Martindale 1-0/3, Brendon Thomas 1-0/3, Jim Armstrong 1-0/8.

The Wombats were off to a slow start because of excellent bowling from the Morning-

West Gippsland Wombats produced a much improved showing against Mornington/ Canterbury on Sunday. Back row from left; Bob Phillips, Russell Ferguson, John Moore, Brendon Thomas, Pieter Loos, Mike Newton, Keith Houghton, Geoff Birnie and Jon Martindale. Front row from left; Barry Cain, David Wells, Jim Armstrong, Jim Gregory and Picture: SUPPLIED Dallas Wyatt. 365728 ton/Canterbury opening attack.

Barry Cain 0 and Jon Martindale 13 both survived to retire after facing 25 balls.

The first wicket fell in the 12th over with the score on 32, when Keith Houghton 9 (10) was caught by Phil Mayne off the bowling of Stanley Pamieta.

A hard-hitting partnership between Pieter Loos and Dallas Wyatt took the score to 76 in the 18th over before Loos 25 (23) was caught by Ian Rowland off the bowling of Stanley Pamieta.

The next four batsmen retired after facing 25 balls, Dallas Wyatt 31, Mike Newton 10, Bob Phillips 17 and Jim Armstrong 2.

David Wells 5 (21) retired hurt before Brendon Thomas 4 (13) was caught by Vin Booth off the bowling of Ian Rowland.

Jim Gregory and Geoff Birnie were both not out on 13 after facing 10 balls each.

After 40 overs the Wombats score of 3 for 154 was 29 runs short of the Mornington/Canterbury total.

Although defeated by a better team, the Wombats showed a great improvement from their first game, but the still have to work on their catching.

-John MooreThursday, 12 October, 2023

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