News - Cranbourne Star News - 16th November 2023

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2023 LADBROKES CRANBOURNE CUP

Tangerine tsunami in town

By David Nagel Just more than a stone’s throw from where this year’s $500,000 Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup (1600m) will be decided on November 25 sits a parcel of land that has captured the attention of some of the biggest and best horse trainers in Australia.

The Cranbourne Training Centre has thoroughly earned its reputation as the biggest training facility in the Southern Hemisphere, with approximately 1000 horses being trained on a daily basis.

Some of Australia’s best trainers, such as Ciaron Maher/David Eustace, Mick Price/Michael Kent Jnr, and long-time locals such as Robbie Griffiths, Trent Busuttin/Natalie Young currently call Cranbourne home.

And the most recent addition to the training ranks…has certainly hit the ground running.

Te Akau Racing - established in New Zealand and in recent years the number-one stable in Singapore - recently settled in Cranbourne with a small team that is expected to grow to between 50 to 60 horses in work.

Ben Gleeson is the man in charge at Cranbourne, reporting to Te Akau Racing HeadTrainer Mark Walker.

Gleeson has most recently spent five years with leading trainer Danny O’Brien, and before that was in Europe, working at the famous Newmarket facility, and before that was with Peter Moody.

“I heard whispers for a year or so beforehand that Te Akau was going to open up in Australia; I was reaching five years with Danny and had learnt as much as I could I felt, and was ready for a new challenge without going into the deep-end of training on my own,” Gleeson explained.

“I sent them (Te Akau) an email, enquiring about their ambitions of opening in Australia, with no idea that they had already been granted 60 boxes at Cranbourne.

“They rang me within 24 hours; I met Mark Walker a couple of weeks later…and it was impossible to say no.”

Gleeson signed on with Te Akau in mid-August, with three horses arriving at Cranbourne two weeks later.

“It’s been a real eye-opener setting up a business on your own; an incredible learning curve to build something from the bottom up, and I’m just fortunate I have some incredible horses to work with,” Gleeson enthused.

“It’s going to be like no position I’ve held; the yearlings they buy every year, whether it be 40 or 50, they’re of the highest quality, there’s some expensive horses there, and they have some incredibly loyal owners.

“I’m going to learn never ending lessons about the business, and Mark has already taught me plenty and is happy to meet in the middle when we discuss ideas.”

As each plane load of horses is unloaded from New Zealand, Gleeson has the financial backing of Te Akau to increase staffing levels.

Those staff enjoy some of the best training

Cranbourne-trained Imperatriz has claims to being the world’s fastest sprinter. 373688

Ben Gleeson, right, leads the Cranbourne stable for New Zealand’s Te Picture: PAT SCALA/RACING PHOTOS Akau Racing. 373688 facilities in the country, with Gleeson full of praise for his collaboration with Cranbourne Turf Club CEO Neil Bainbridge.

“Neil has moved heaven and earth to make us feel at home, and would be one of the strongest and most passionate CEOs in the country,” Gleeson said.

“He wants to promote the sport and have the best facility in the land; it’s been a pleasure to work with him as we get settled into our new surroundings.

“He’s been so accommodating in building us an elite stable.”

And it’s not just Gleeson who is in awe of his new surroundings, with leading jockey James McDonald recently visiting the track.

Picture: BRETT HOLBURT

Expect to see a lot of more of this from gun New Zealand jockey Opie Bosson; with Te Akau racing now having a training base in Cranbourne.

373688 Picture: BRETT HOLBURT

The sand trails at Cranbourne certainly caught his eye.

“We had lunch with James (McDonald) after he visited the track that Sunday,” Gleeson explained.

“He said ‘It’s hard to believe you have access to something like this, because there’s nowhere in Sydney that can provide that for horses, and there’s nowhere in Australia that can help with their mental approach so well’.

“It’s arguably the most important training tool at Cranbourne…and possibly in Australian racing.”

And Gleeson said he is still pinching himself, having recently joined the stable and playing a key role in the preparation of cham-

pion sprinting-mare Imperatriz.

“She’s rated the best sprinter in the world at the moment, top five in the world overall, so it’s hard to beat that,” he said.

“I was lucky enough to work with Russian Camelot, who I think was the most untapped talent we’ve seen in the country, who never got to show his full potential, he was an incredible horse.

“I was lucky to assist in Vow and Declare in his build up to winning a Melbourne Cup; but I really do pinch myself thinking that I get the chance to help train this wonder-mare.

“She’s incredible, and I feel fortunate to be part of the journey.”

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Gardeners mark 50 years

Rental struggle

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Casey rentals are at their most unaffordable since 2015 – severely so for pensioner couples, according to newly released statistics.

The Rental Affordability Index depicts a “fundamentally broken” rental market across Melbourne.

For pensioner couples, rental prices are rated as “severely unaffordable” across Casey – scoring as low as 71 in Berwick, 78 in Narre Warren, 79 in Cranbourne and 80 in Hampton Park.

A score of 101-120 is considered “moderately unaffordable”, 121-150 as “acceptable” and over 150 as “affordable”.

Meanwhile for minimum wage couples, rental affordability is deteriorating to “moderately unaffordable” in Berwick while still “acceptable” in other Casey suburbs.

The Rental Affordability Index is an analysis undertaken by National Shelter and SGS Economics and Planning.

National Shelter chief executive Emma Greenhalgh said low-income people were being priced out of “entire swathes” of Melbourne.

“The rental market is fundamentally broken.

“Melbourne’s rental market is in a crisis and it’s only getting worse. This disproportionately punishes people with the least.”

Overall, Berwick ranks the lowest for affordability with an “acceptable” index score of 127 (down 8 per cent from two years ago), followed

by Cranbourne (132, down 17 per cent), Narre

Warren (134, down 7 per cent) and Hampton Park (148, down 7 per cent).

The suburbs are all rated less than “affordable”, based on Greater Melbourne median gross household incomes of $108,955.

Soaring rents are starkly shown in the State Government’s June Rental Report.

For low-income earners, there were only two “affordable” two-bedroom rentals available in the entire Casey council area, two in Cardinia Shire and 23 in Greater Dandenong.

There was just one single-bedroom rental rated as “affordable” in Casey, one in Greater Dandenong and zero in Cardinia Shire.

Median rents for two-bedroom flats in Berwick soared $40 a week in the past year to $400 and two-bedroom houses up $63 a week to $423.

In Cranbourne, two-bedroom flats were up $25 a week to $365, and houses up $40 a week to $400.

In Narre Warren-Hampton Park, two-bedroom flats were up $30 a week to $380 and houses up $32 a week to $400.

In Pakenham, two-bedroom flats rose $30 a week to $360 and houses were up $50 a week to $390.

In September, the State Government launched its Housing Statement which sets a target of 800,000 new homes over the next decade with affordable housing quotas and fasttracked planning approvals.

“More housing supply means lower prices,” the then-Premier Daniel Andrews said at the time.

Continued page 4

E E R F

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KET R A M

Arborist Jordan Wong performing his stunts in the Master’s Challenge. 372431 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Arborists go head-to-head

By Violet Li The 2023 Victorian Tree Climbing Championships (VTCC) were held at Banjo Paterson Reserve in Lynbrook from 11 to 12 November with more than 30 arborists

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Expressions of interest open for Youth Climate Action Committee

The City of Casey is inviting those who might be interested in running in the 2024 Council Elections to some upcoming information sessions to kick start their journey in making a difference in the community.

Information session details: • November in-person session: Tuesday 28 November, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm Eliston Family and Community Centre, Clyde

Next year the City of Casey will return to elected councillors when the next local government elections take place across Victoria in October 2024.

• February virtual (online) session: Tuesday 27 February, 1.00 pm – 3.00 pm

To support community members who might be considering running for Council, we are hosting three Role of Council Candidate Information Sessions over the coming months.

• March in-person session: Tuesday 26 March, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm Bunjil Place, Narre Warren

The sessions are designed to give community leaders and residents the chance to find out more about the diverse range of functions and services local government provides, the role of councillors and to provide the resources required for potential candidates for the election.

To find out more and to register, visit the ‘Council elections 2024’ page on our website.

Become a climate change leader and make a difference in the community by getting involved in projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, living sustainably, and acting against climate change.

Starting February 2024, the committee will meet twice a month in the evenings, with a mixture of in person and online meetings.

Anyone aged 15 to 25 who lives, works or studies in Casey are encouraged to apply.

Applications close 30 November.

Scan the QR to apply.

Have your say and help shape Casey’s future Provide feedback on a number of consultations currently open on our community engagement platform, Casey Conversations.

• Kindergarten and Early Years Survey • Bunjil Place Annual Community Survey • Planning Scheme Amendment C284case • Casey Electoral Structure Review • Notice of intention to lease property at Mick Morland Reserve

Council hosts Respecting Youth Voices to Enable Change event at Bunjil Place

In recognition of the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, we will be hosting the Respecting Youth Voices to Enable Change showcase event at Bunjil Place on Wednesday 6 December from 4.30 pm to 6.30 pm.

Head to the Casey Conversations website to find out more.

This free event will showcase 15 of Casey’s diverse multicultural and multilingual youth and what respect means to them through dance, photography and poetry.

Bookings are essential by Friday 1 December.

Scan the QR code to book your spot today or visit our website.

Christmas market and tree lighting The ever-popular twilight Christmas market is back from 3.00 pm to 9.00 pm on Saturday 2 December.

To be held at Bunjil Place, the market will have a variety of market stalls, food trucks, entertainment, children’s activities, local choirs, live music and free art workshops.

Our Christmas tree will also be lit at 8.00 pm.

To find out more, visit the Bunjil Place website.

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Faster emergency response

By Violet Li Emergency waiting times have reduced at Casey Hospital but non-urgent planned surgery waits are on the rise, according to the latest official stats.

The latest Victorian Health Service Performance report shows the 90th percentile emergency department (ED) waiting times in the July-September quarter has dropped by 78 per cent to 34 minutes, compared to last year.

It was also considerably lower than the state average of 96 minutes.

The 90th percentile waiting time is the amount of time in which 90 per cent of all patients presented to an emergency department were seen by a nurse or doctor.

Over 80 per cent of patients in need of emergency care were treated within the recommended time across all triage categories, which met the statewide target for the second consecutive quarter.

While the percentage of patient transfers from ambulance to the ED within 40 minutes has slightly increased by 14 per cent since last year, it fell short of the statewide 90 per cent target.

However, the average overdue waiting time for non-urgent patients was almost 40 per cent longer than the statewide figure and 35 per cent more than last year.

Patients at Casey Hospital need to wait an average of 15 additional months for their nonurgent planned surgeries on top of the benchmark 12 months waiting period.

Dandenong Hospital has averaged similar overdue waiting times for non-urgent surgeries, with patients waiting for an overall 28 months.

About 2000 residents are on Casey Hospital’s waiting list across all planned surgery categories, with the waiting list steadily declining over the past year.

A Monash Health spokesperson said Victorian waiting lists for planned surgery, including at Casey Hospital, continued to be impacted from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and unprecedented demand from a growing and ageing population.

Since the pandemic, Monash Health commenced a surgical recovery program to reduce the long waitlist for planned surgeries.

The program includes expanding day surgery and upgrading surgery theatres to create greater access for the community.

It’s understood the initiatives have seen Monash Health reduce the long waitlist for planned surgeries by more than 30 per cent this year.

Victoria Healthcare Association (VHA) – the peak body for the state’s public health services

– chief executive officer Leigh Clarke said the latest report showed good indicators that hospital performance was trending in the right direction but there was more work to be done to ease long-standing system-wide pressures.

“Our hospitals have been working extremely hard to speed up elective surgeries, cut emergency wait times and reduce the number of patients staying longer than they need to, all while working in an increasingly challenging operating environment,” she said.

Ms Clarke said that increasing demand for emergency services meant we could not afford to be complacent about the future effect of this trend on patient care.

“It is really pleasing to see government initiatives like the Covid Catch Up Plan and Planned Surgery Recovery and Reform pro-

gram continuing to have an impact on waiting lists for planned surgeries,” she said.

“Investments like the Victorian Virtual Emergency Departments also appear to be helping to divert people with non-critical conditions away from busy emergency departments.

‘But we also know that many services are struggling in an increasingly complex operating environment with rising service delivery costs, ongoing workforce shortages and the need for investment in critical maintenance that meets community expectations.”

Ms Clarke added that the rising burden of chronic diseases, coupled with structural deficits in health budgets posed significant challenges that required sustained investment and collaborative efforts.

“Victorian hospital performance is on the path to recovery and there are positive signs some areas are returning to pre-pandemic levels, but we need to be mindful of where the pressure points are,” she said.

“The VHA wants to see targeted initiatives to ensure our health system continues to meet the standard of care that Victorians expect,” she said.

Meanwhile, urgent ambulance responses have improved in Casey but still well short of the benchmark, according to Ambulance Victoria’s latest statistics.

The body is required to respond to codeone emergencies within 15 minutes for 85 per cent of incidents statewide.

Casey had 64.7 per cent of responses up to the standard in the last quarter, marginally lower than the state average of 66 per cent.

This was a 6 per cent increase compared to the last quarter.

The average response time in Casey amounted to an average of 14.58 minutes which was 14 seconds shorter than the state level.

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Five decades of gardening

By Violet Li When a local club celebrated its 50th anniversary, a dive into the past would strike any loyal member, or even a bystander, as inevitable for the opening speech.

While to trace the origins could be strenuous, Cranbourne & District Garden Club committee members have tried their hardest.

Research officer Marie Pazitka unveiled the history with a written record by one of the two founding members Eileen Frost at the special anniversary gathering on 9 November.

“My family and I moved to Cranbourne in 1974 and there was very little for adults and children to do in those days – it was a small country town,” Ms Frost wrote.

“In 1975, I saw an advertisement in the local paper from a lady who had come down from Queensland and apparently had been in a club in Queensland.”

Ms Frost went to recall the first meeting was at the lady’s house and their first speaker was Barry Blyth from Tempo Two Nursery who did not remember the visit at all.

“The club struggled on for a few years until a horticultural body got involved and did a lot of advertising and a special meeting with an enormous spread for supper,” she continued.

“We were at that stage in the old shire offices, but we then went to the high school.

“I became president at that time, and was president for a few years, but as usual no one wanted to take over so I resigned, which was a pity as I enjoyed the garden club.”

She remembered some very good speakers and being able to get the particular plants or flowers in her own garden with the help of the club.

“Just a footnote – the lady who started with the club went back to Queensland as it was too cold in Cranbourne,” she ended.

The reminiscence sparked loud good laugh among the members present.

The ceremony was followed by management reports, a draw for the raffle, and afternoon tea.

President Julie Muley said with about 30 members, the club organised a bus trip every two months and speakers would come along to share some interesting subjects.

Having been in her role for the past seven years, Ms Muley saw many people stayed and also many came, stayed for a while, and left.

“It’s obvious that these days a lot of people are not being interested, especially younger

Cranbourne & District Garden Club celebrated its 50th anniversary at Cranbourne Public Hall.

Cranbourne & District Garden Club committee members. people. It’s just a matter of a couple of plants in a pot,” she said.

But she recognised people tended to join a club after retirement, when they have more time.

“You realise that all those people you work with are not people you want to hang around,” she said.

“A lot of people joined after retirement.

Some come for the trips, some for the speak-

Pictures: VIOLET LI

Afternoon tea at the special 50th anniversary.

ers, and some just to get together and have a cup of afternoon tea.”

Now Ms Muley is encourage people interested to join the community. The club welcomes anyone in the region.

“We’re here, and we’re a great club. Our door is open, so come along and have afternoon tea with us soon,” she said.

“Life can be too serious. And as you get older, it becomes more serious, I’m afraid.

“I suppose we can just get together and have a good laugh.”

Cranbourne & District Garden Club meets every second Thursday of the month at Cranbourne Public Hall.

Meetings begin at 1.30pm and afternoon tea is served afterwards. Previous members and new members are very welcome to drop by.

Rental struggle: ‘Severely unaffordable’ properties From page 1 Under the Government’s Big Housing Build launched in 2020, 76 social housing dwellings have been built in Casey with 70 underway.

Opposition housing spokesperson Rich-

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ard Riordan said the project had been a “big let down”.

Just 394 extra public housing dwellings had been built since 2018 at the cost of $5.3 billion – despite a pledge of 12,000 homes by 2024, he said.

“These numbers also make a mockery of the Premier (Jacinta Allan’s) claim that she will build 800,000 new homes over the next decade.”

Recently, homelessness support service Wayss said the South East growth corridor had been “neglected” – with its proportion

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Ahead of the 2022 state election, City of Casey called for an “urgent investment” to stem the significant and growing shortfall of 6000 affordable and social housing dwellings.

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Education funding concern

By Emma Xerri The ‘For Every Child’ campaign made its way to Cranbourne West Primary School on Wednesday, with the school claiming a $1.1 million annual shortfall in “full funding”.

The campaign, which will culminate with the delivery of thousands of postcards to Federal Parliament in late November, is calling for full funding across public schools nation-wide.

According to organisers, 98 per cent of public schools funded below the minimum Schooling Resource Standard, which sits at $11,000 per primary student and $14,000 per secondary student.

Campaigners are also drawing attention to teachers’ deteriorating work conditions across the country.

Cranbourne West Primary School teacher Ray Payne believes addressing the underfunding is a crucial step to improving the quality of education for both teachers and students.

“It’s very frustrating and a lot of people are taking time off due to stress,” Payne said.

“We’re a very multicultural school and we’ve got a range of students with different educational needs. Some students need a lot of support and some of the high-achieving students need to be accelerated, but we’re short on staff and support staff, so people are missing out on both ends of the spectrum.

“The general feeling is that a lack of resources, a lack of staff, and a lack of funding affects everyone. And we’re a very inclusive school.

“No one misses out because of their income. But that puts a financial strain on the whole school, and on the whole education system really.”

Cranbourne West Primary School principal Andrew Bergmeier states that full funding for all public schools is the only way to address these educational barriers and move forward.

Staff get behind the ‘For Every Child’ campaign at Cranbourne West Primary School.

“Currently, Victorian schools are funded at 90 per cent of the Student Resource Standard, which means that every primary school student is missing out on $1800 of funding a year.

“For a school of our size, which has about 600 kids, that’s just around $1.1 million. If we, as a school, were funded up to the 100 per cent then we would be able to employ a teacher aid for every classroom, which would significantly help our children,” Bergmeier said.

From $477,654*

“All we want as a school community is for the state government and the federal government to live up to their pre-election promises and to provide us with what our school requires to thrive.”

The Minister for Education and the Opposition spokesperson for education were both contacted for comment but did not respond by deadline.

From $643,333*

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From $477,818*

“At the moment, we can only provide our students that are coming from trauma or are suffering from mental health or physical issues very limited support.

“We are not medical experts or psychologists or occupational therapists, and we would, like all schools, benefit from having a dedicated professional in these roles at our school all the time.

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Jockey rides for a cause Star jockey Craig Williams has engaged with Kids with Cancer Foundation in this year’s Spring Racing Carnival.

His cap features the foundation logo to highlight the charity spirits and encourage fans to donate to the cause.

Mr Williams has just competed in this year’s Flemington Melbourne Cup Day with his Cranbourne-trained filly Apache Song in the 2023 Desirable Stakes.

On 21 October, Mr Williams rode Apache Song in the Group 2 Guineas Prelude (1400m) at Caulfield, calling out to Kids with Cancer Foundation through a social media video filmed from his cap.

Apache Song is a homebred for David Baker’s Kilmore Thoroughbred Services and is trained by Michael Trotter.

She won her Moe maiden prior the Caulfield race by 6.5 lengths.

She ran second in her second start in the Redoutes Choice Stakes, and is aiming for a run in the Caulfield Thousand Guineas.

Apache Song is the first foal of the accomplished Gonski mare For a Song, which won races at Caulfield, Pakenham, Moe and Seymour and placed a further eight times in a 23-start career.

This is not the first time a David Baker horse has raced for Kids with Cancer, with For a Song racing for Kids with Cancer Foundation in 2017.

Mr Williams has been passionate about helping kids with cancer and their families, through raising awareness of nearly 800 children diagnosed with cancer each year, and funds to support the important programs provided by Kids with Cancer Foundation – including direct financial support to families,

The 12 little ducklings were found huddled together in the storm drain. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Ducklings back with mum Craig Williams and his filly Apache Song are racing for Kids with Cancer in the 2023 Spring Carnival.

Picture: SUPPLIED Care Packs, Wigs4Kids, plus funding critical hospital salaries and infrastructure, cancer research and more.

This year, Kids with Cancer Foundation marks 25 years of supporting kids with cancer and their families and celebrated providing over $30 million in funding nationwide through its programs.

At Kids with Cancer Foundation, 100 per cent of direct donations and fundraising activities go directly to funding the charity’s assistance programs.

All operational expenses are paid through three $2 raffles that are run throughout the year.

To learn more, visit kidswithcancer.org.au

A group of local firies made rescued a flock of ducklings from a drain on Saturday 4 November thanks to a quick-thinking mother duck.

CFA crews from the Narre Warren CFA fire brigade rescued 12 ducklings after receiving reports that the ducklings had fallen into a drain behind Amberley Park Shopping Centre.

Responding to a call at 6.52pm on Saturday 4 November, the crew spent 10 minutes searching when the mother duck guided them to the right drain, anxiously circling the drain as she watched the firefighters remove the debris from the drain covering before lifting the drain cover.

Narre Warren fifth lieutenant Aaron Chitaranjan said when they managed to gain access to the drain, they found the ducklings huddled together.

“One by one we picked them up and put them in a box with the mother duck watching from a distance,” he said.

All ducklings were safely removed from the drain and reunited with their mother.

The Narre Warren crew kept the ducklings warm after the rescue.

OPINION SOCIALLY SPEAKING

LENSCAPE

Optus customers across the country were left frustrated last week as a nationwide outage affected millions of businesses and individuals, leaving them without access to key services. Here’s what our readers had to say about how it impacted them.

Janine Kay Definitely thinking of changing provider. It affected my banking, car servicing, shopping and my ability to be there to support family.

Ian Venables Imagine the consequences if this happened during a major disaster like fires or flood.

No warnings could be issued.. equals loss of lives.

Jude Newman-Tope When I needed to try and get my asthmatic

child into a doctor and couldn’t make calls or use the booking app, I wasn’t impressed.

Luckily, they saw me as a walk-in.

Lorraine Lindsay It can happen to any provider.

Pauline Stringer Being deaf, I had no way to communicate with anyone - text, Messenger, emails or any other way. I am a full-time carer of two adults and I couldn’t even contact anyone especially after one had a meltdown. Not happy and this should not be happening with such a huge telco.

Shaun Coe Only missed 20 business calls and 10 emails.

Tracey Matthies Not an Optus user, but couldn’t phone my doctor’s clinic because they are.

THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN Thumbs up

Thumbs down

To the Coastal Village Art Group’s ‘Coastal Colours’ exhibition.

To the weather.

Thumbs up

To inconsiderate, selfish motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Learn to get along or just stay at home.

Thumbs down To everyone who volunteers in Casey! You matter very much!

Thumbs down To Casey Council.

Arborist Jordan Wong competing in the Victorian Tree Climbing Competition in Lynbrook.

372879 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Thumbs down To insurance companies.

6 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 November, 2023

Thumbs up To the great playlist at the Berwick Bowling Club on Saturday with some AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ and ’Jessie’s Girl’ by Rick Springfield, just to name a few! cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

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cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 16 November, 2023

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STAR NEWS 7

THE LOWDOWN Q&A

with Merinda Park Learning & Community Centre manager Michelle Davidson

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I always order a double ice cream and one flavour has to be rum and rasin!

What do you love the most about your job?

That I am the boss! Working as the centre manager at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre, every day is different. I enjoy working with the local North Cranbourne Community and offering programs and services to meet the local needs. I know all our students’ names and love a cheeky hello from the children in our before and after school care programs. One day I am writing a grant application or helping in the newly established community garden or working with volunteers and the next, preparing reports for our Committee of Management or helping to cook the barbecue as part of the Ageing Positively month.

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

I have just come back from a visit to the Adelaide Zoo, and I want to be a fluffy black and white panda bear. They are so cute and adorable, and for the most part are peaceful, easy going and happily laze about and eat.

What was your most memorable moment?

I know it’s a bit of a cliche, however it was when the doctor put my newborn daughter on my chest. Almost 20 years on, I can still remember vividly those first moments when I met my daughter.

What were you like as a kid?

I like to think I was a likeable kid, smart but not too smart. I was part of a great social group of girls, and we still meet up for dinner three or four times a year, some 40 to 50 years on! I was a bit shy in new situations, which surprises people who know me now.

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

To have been present in 1922, when Howard Carter opened the tomb of Tutankhamun.

THREE … ways to protect your home

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Enhance visibility to deter burglars Ensure your home is well-lit, especially at entrances and along pathways. Adequate lighting makes it easier for neighbours or passersby to spot suspicious activity, acting as a deterrent for potential burglars.

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Use safes to secure important documents, jewellery, and other valuables. Consider engraving or marking your possessions with unique identifiers, making it harder for thieves to sell or pawn stolen items.

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre manager Michelle Davidson. 363670 Picture: ROB CAREW Which six dinner guests, dead or alive, would you invite to dinner?

Nagi Maehashi, Margaret Atwood, Michelle Obama, Pink, Emily Brontë and Sarah Millican.

What three words would your friends use to describe you?

Did a quick ring around for these - principled, vibrant and optimistic.

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

The day would start with breakfast in bed. The morning would be spent at home, and then out for lunch. It would be a sunny 28 degrees,

and I would spend the afternoon outside reading a book in the shade, and someone would bring me a couple of glasses of champagne.

Dinner would be cooked for me. I would go to bed around 10pm with a happy smile.

Where is your happy place?

A sunny place, maybe in Palm Cove.

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

Mussels in a pot with home-made fries and mayonnaise.

Where is your dream holiday destination?

COMO Cocoa Island in the Maldives.

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NEWS

Championing better care

By Emma Xerri

Emeritus Professor Margaret O’Connor is presented with her recognition by Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins at the Victorian Honour Roll of Women ceremony. ous overseas conferences and undergone expert visits to Singapore, United Kingdom, Timor L’Este, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia.

“Palliative care helps people to have a choice about all sorts of things at the end of their life, and the choice about where they receive their care is really important.

“A ward, where the emphasis is on people getting well and being discharged, is not the optimal place to die, and people who have a limited time left to live probably want some-

thing more comforting than that.

“While people do sometimes need to go to hospital to get their symptoms managed, for example, it’s really important that we’re able to support them in having a choice over where they receive most of their care.

“At Palliative Care South East we’re very proud of the work we’ve been doing this year, and we’re looking forward to all the challenges that having a different profile in a different area will bring.”

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opment and establishment of palliative care services in Victoria.

And after serving as foundation chair of Palliative Care Nursing at Monash University and founding three palliative care services across Melbourne, O’Connor was awarded the prestigious Winston Churchill Fellowship in 2018, enabling her to explore end-of-life issues in a number of countries.

Her tremendous work has been recognised internationally and she has spoken at numer-

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After three decades of tireless work in palliative care, Emeritus Professor, Margaret O’Connor, has been celebrated with an esteemed place on the Victorian Honour Roll of Women.

O’Connor is now among more than 700 women who have had their leadership achievements immortalised on the public record for excellence in their field and commitment to their community, which she has displayed in all aspects of her work locally, federally and internationally.

“I was thrilled to be recognised in this way, and it’s something I really didn’t expect,” O’Connor said.

“The Honour Roll is recognition of the roles of women in the Victorian community, and sometimes those roles might be a little overlooked or not acknowledged as much as they ought to be.

“I started my work in palliative care because I was frustrated with the organised health care that happens in institutions, where people don’t have a say over things like when they’d like to shower or exercise, and I was frustrated over having to conform.

“Caring for dying people has always been a challenge in institutions, particularly in hospitals where it’s not really set up for looking after people who are dying. And if we were to go back in history a little bit, everyone died at home, so I became very interested in home-based care and in making sure we were able to offer people that choice if that’s what they wanted.”

After a diverse and highly transformative career in palliative care, which has seen O’Connor drive the early development of palliative care services in Victoria and work extensively to expand Victoria’s palliative care research and training, this honour is by no means a first for the Palliative Care South East chair.

In 2005, O’Connor was made a member of the Order of Australia for service to the devel-

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cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

Thursday, 16 November, 2023

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STAR NEWS 9

NEWS

Preserve our foundations

By Ethan Benedicto As the monthly Casey Council meeting draws nearer, former council heritage staff member David Westlake wants a greater emphasis on the area’s significant geological sites.

While Mr Westlake had already spoken about the sense of belonging these sites provide, their upkeep is more about “that understanding of country”.

“Regarding the SBI quarry in Cranbourne, you’ve got the older layers and then there’s a big gap where you can see the millions of years of soil that leads to Sandringham sandstone,” Mr Westlake said.

Neville Rosenberg, a geomorphologist with 40 years of experience, had identified the SBI quarry in 2018 to be of state significance.

The Sandringham sandstone dates as far back as five million years ago, one of the many instances where Mr Westlake states are an important part of history.

In addition, the former quarry in Wilson Botanic Park is also of state significance, namely for its preservation of fossil plants and basalt lava flows.

“It’s a legacy of the past that so many people cherish and look after, and it’s not a big ask to try and maintain it really.”

Casey Council houses a large array of heritage areas, with a big focus on structural sites.

“I think there’s more focus on structural heritage sites, it’s lacking in geological and geomorphological (heritage), and I would also add lacking in Aboriginal heritage as well,” Mr Westlake said.

However, one of the issues he added was that while a planning report might be filed, there’s a tendency for it to sit in the archive and be forgotten.

“I would advocate that since we know how to do a study and to revise it once or twice, we really should have something to protect the sites.”

Although not geological, Mr Westlake had previously worked on civic memorabilia with the Bunjil Place arts team where they have managed to digitalise 124 out of roughly 800 documents, but has unfortunately come to a halt.

“It’s good to focus on the top 124 pieces, but there could be many more items which could be worth the public knowing about.”

One of the many things Mr Westlake would like to see in the council meeting is a proper timeline that outlines protection for all heritage sites, stating that the “council should grasp the bullet and do justice to these heritage sites”.

Education and community outreach regarding geological heritage sites was another factor Mr Westlake said should be considered.

“Geo-heritage sites have scientific and educational values, scientific research is aided by finds like the fossil plants at Wilson Botanic Park.

“It is one of the easiest described assemblages of this type of flora in Victoria, thus adding a key to the geological record.”

The educational value, Mr Westlake stated,

An informational sign that stands in front of the lake, detailing its history. 372493

A walking path that winds around a hill, giving pedestrians a good view of the rock formation.

372493

David Westlake next to one of the three lakes in Wilson Botanic Park. 372493.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS is that people, especially young children are able to gain what he said is a “real sense of wonder and discovery”.

“When geo-heritage sites are preserved and protected in the local area, one’s backyard, so as to speak, they are easily accessible to local schools and families, especially when interpretative signage is added.”

Wilson Botanic Park has multiple signs throughout its premises, providing people with information detailing the specific geographic outlay of the environment.

Mr Westlake also added that a specific way for the park to push further its educational value is to do guided walks, where an expert would speak to a group and elaborate on topics of geology.

Aside from demolition from neglect, some of the greatest challenges that Casey faces in

heritage protection are increasing land values and pressure for urban development within heritage areas.

In addition, there is also the lack of funding, resources and expertise to care for heritage places during and after the process of urban development, according to a parliamentary inquiry into Casey’s protections within the Victorian planning framework.

City of Casey’s planning and building manager Tania Asper said the council is preparing a planning scheme amendment to update the current planning scheme.

It will “include reference to a new local heritage policy that will require due consideration be given to heritage conservation, in addition to current planning scheme requirements”, according to Ms Asper.

One of the few things Mr Westlake said

should be done is for the wider community to understand the value of geology.

Giving credit to his grandfather, David said that being exposed to the beauty of geology, the formation of the earth and its intricacies was the catalyst for his work throughout the years.

“A greater emphasis on both staff and community education and participation is central in my view.

“I think a dedicated officer would enable justice to be done to our rich heritage, ensuring that the community have a sense of belonging.”

Mr Westlake’s former manager made a case five years ago to turn the heritage officer planner position into a full-time role but to no avail.

While there is no specific focus on geological sites, Ms Asper stated the council employs a heritage officer and a panel of consultants to help homeowners manage heritage places.

“Landowners are encouraged to take advantage of our free Heritage Advisory Service or apply for funding to assist with the conservation of their heritage places via the Victorian Heritage Restoration Fund,” she said.

Regarding the planning scheme update, Mr Westlake stated that it will require more desktop research and site visits in order to update the 2018 study by Mr Rosengren, and to also indulge in more staff education.

“I still encompass this with all heritages, and it’s about having a sense of place, of belonging, bringing you back to your roots if you like, to where you come from.

“It’s good to question something you don’t know, it’s part of science as well as heritage.”

The next council meeting is set to happen on Tuesday 21 November at 4pm and is open to public viewing.

Federal decision looms over which projects get the cut

By Corey Everitt The Federal Government is preparing to pull back on infrastructure projects across the country, as the long-awaited findings of the infrastructure review, which put two local projects at risk, is set to be released “shortly”.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Catherine King has finally addressed the 90-day review into federally-funded projects, which began in May and has now extended to 190 days with no finding published yet and many projects still halted.

The review put hundreds of soon-to-be started infrastructure projects on hold, as the Federal Government infrastructure spending had reportedly blown-out by at least $33 billion. Two local projects could get the axe from the review, the Clyde Road Upgrade and twothirds of the Pakenham Roads Upgrade package which would see upgrades to Racecourse 10 STAR NEWS

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Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Catherine King confirmed some infrastructure projects would be cancelled. Picture: MICK TSIKAS/AAP Road and McGregor Road.

Ms King spoke to reporters on Monday 6 November confirming that the review had made suggestions to cancel yet-to-be named projects, as well as potentially delaying others.

“The review looked at around 250 proj-

Thursday, 16 November, 2023

ects overall and has made recommendations around cancelling some,” Ms King said.

“It’s made recommendations around making sure we’ve got planning money and we slow the process down so we know what the costs are before we commit to construction.”

The comments come before the Reserve Bank of Australia raised interest rates on Tuesday. The official cash rate is now at 4.35 per cent. The rise has been blamed by some on the level of infrastructure spending driving inflation, as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) claimed in a report on Wednesday 1 November that inflation will continue at high levels in Australia over the next several years in part due to high infrastructure spending.

The rate rise and the IMF’s report may put more pressure on the Federal Government to make cuts.

“We want to make sure we do everything we possibly can to get inflation down. We

know that people need to have cost of living relief,” Ms King said.

The findings of the report are set to be announced in the coming weeks, as Ms King confirmed the Federal Government is in talks with State Governments on the matter.

The discussion may have states jostling to keep their projects, as Queensland Treasurer took to X - formerly Twitter - to say Queensland was a “growth state” needing “more infrastructure” and cuts should go to “southern states” with “low growth and high debt”.

In October, La Trobe MP Jason Wood defended the Clyde Road and Pakenham Roads Upgrade saying the former was crucial for the area, something the Federal Government must “commit to and deliver”, while he said it was “disgraceful” that the Pakenham Roads Upgrade may not go ahead for a community which already “put up with such poor roads”. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Taking action on climate

By Violet Li Casey Council has endorsed a new plan to change the way climate impacts are managed across the south east region.

South East Councils Climate Change Alliance (SECCCA), including Casey Council, officially launched the new blueprint - SECCCA 2024-28: Working Together for Stronger Climate Action - on Wednesday 8 November.

The action plan recognises the importance of a partnership approach to deliver stronger results for local communities.

The action plan identifies practical programs for delivery with the Australian and Victorian Government partners and nine local council members across the SECCCA region.

The priority projects include business energy support program, residential home resilience ratings tool, and small business climate adaptation toolkit.

The SECCCA region is home to one million Victorians with a diverse mix of metropolitan, periurban and rural communities, producing $85 billion in Gross Regional Product annually.

The 2019-2024 action plan identified the reduction targets to keep warming below 1.5 degrees in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, which means the south east region needs to reduce emissions 5.8 per cent every year until 2037.

It has also found the region would experience more frequent heat waves, decreased rainfall, and increased flooding by 2050 on the current trajectory of national action.

Casey sustainability and waste manager Michael Jansen said Casey recognised that climate change required action by all levels of society.

“The City of Casey Climate Action Plan 2022-2030 is aligned with the SECCCA fouryear Strategic Plan (2024-2028). Our Climate Action Plan supports the SECCCA target for

Casey joins other councils and groups at the launch of the South East Councils Climate Change Alliance’s (SECCCA) new action plan. Picture: SUPPLIED the community to achieve net zero emissions by 2040,” he said.

“While council is committed to educating, promoting, collaborating, and advocating for the community to achieve this goal, residents and businesses must be mindful of their own emissions. To become a net zero emissions community, we must work together towards efficient and low energy consuming lifestyles.

“In addition to reducing carbon emissions, a collective effort is also required to prepare for the impacts of the changing climate that will present itself through extreme weather events.

Work is underway to inform a robust Climate Adaptation Plan that will outline a clear pathway for Casey to become a climate resilient city.”

SECCCA chair Michael Whelan, who is also Bass Coast Shire mayor, said community sur-

veys suggested that more than three quarters of residents were very concerned about the impacts of climate change in our region.

“SECCCA has taken a whole of community view, to work together and come up with practical steps to help mitigate and manage climate risk in our region,” he said.

“This strategy charts the path for our members to work together and with our community to address climate change in our region.”

The action plan was launched to an audience of Federal and State Members of Parliament, industry and business groups, peak bodies and councillors from across the nine SECCCA councils.

The draft action plan is set to be finalised soon and scheduled for delivery from July 2024.

The plan also includes transitioning council fleets to electric or hydrogen heavy-duty vehicles, reviewing the vulnerability of council assets, expanding the environmentally sustainable design Brief Ezy tool, a climate risk mitigation program for councils, advocacy on climate action, and purchasing carbon offsets.

Climate Action Minister the Hon Lily D’Ambrosio joined local leaders for the official launch as well as secretary of the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action John Bradley, Footy for Climate Alliance co-founder Tom Campbell and net zero lead for the Insurance Council of Australia Ange Nichols.

Other SECCCA councils are Bass Coast, Cardinia Shire, Greater Dandenong, Kingston, Mornington Peninsula Shire, Frankston, Bayside and Port Phillip.

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STAR NEWS 11

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Thursday, 16 November, 2023

cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Allan opens $23m works Clyde Primary School’s multi-million-dollar upgrade is now complete, with Premier Jacinta Allan and Deputy Premier Ben Carroll visiting the school to formally open the expansive works.

The state-of-the-art buildings will provide more spaces for local students in the expanding township of Clyde.

The State Government invested almost $23 million in the upgrade.

New classrooms will cater for specialised art, STEM and music facilities.

The flagship piece is the school’s new fullsized gymnasium coming with a competitiongrade basketball court. Works were also completed to create new library and staff areas.

The school now has space for 50 more students, creating more space for the rapidly growing South East.

Premier Allan attended the official opening, accompanied by Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll, Bass MP Jordan Crugnale and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards.

“These are fabulous new school buildings, built on a site that’s been delivering government education since 1910,” Premier Allan said.

“These new buildings are an example of the way the community has obviously grown and we want to make sure we continue to provide the facilities for government education.

“It’s credit to Michelle Mackenlay and the team here for the way they have overseen the building project and ensured teaching has continued during the building works.”

Clyde Primary School’s official opening of their newly upgraded facilities.

Picture: COREY EVERITT

Premier Jacinta Allan attended the official opening.

‘Where grassroots democracy begins’: Elections near community to attend one of the sessions.

“Local government is where grassroots democracy begins, and Casey is seeking individuals from diverse backgrounds, with various skill sets and experiences, to step forward and take part in the electoral process,” Ms Duff said.

“Anyone who intends to run for council should be passionate about their community, be keen to learn and willing to contribute to strategic decisions.

“By running as a candidate, you can help ensure that the voices and concerns of your community are heard and that your local government represents the diverse perspectives and needs of its residents.

“If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, I encourage you to register for an upcoming information session so you can explore the possibility further.”

The information sessions will give an overview of the City of Casey, council functions and services and provide key details on how to run for council including formal training requirements for candidates.

The sessions will also cover topics including good governance practices, social media awareness and the Local Government

Act 2020.

Council will be hosting three information sessions, two in-person events and one online.

November in-person session Date: Tuesday 28 November 2023 Time: 6pm – 8pm Venue: Eliston Family and Community Centre, Clyde Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1128893 February virtual (online) session Date: Tuesday 27 February 2024 Time: 1pm - 3pm Venue: Online session Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1122762 March in-person session Date: Tuesday 26 March 2024 Time: 6pm – 8pm Venue: Bunjil Place, Narre Warren Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1122765 To find out more and register to attend, visit casey.vic.gov.au/council-elections-2024

· · · ·

· · · · · · · ·

Casey has been governed by administrators for the past few years since the dismissal of all Casey councillors in February 2020 by the State Government.

12648893-FC46-23

Casey is inviting residents interested in running in the 2024 council elections to upcoming information sessions to kick start their journey in making a difference in the community.

Casey has been governed by administrators for the past few years since the dismissal of all Casey councillors in February 2020 by the State Government.

Next year Casey will return to elected councillors when the next local government elections take place across Victoria in October 2024.

To support community members who might be considering running for council, Casey is hosting three Role of Council Candidate information sessions over the coming months.

The sessions are designed to give community leaders and residents the chance to find out more about the diverse range of functions and services local government provides, the role of councillors, and to provide the resources required for potential candidates for the election.

City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff encouraged anyone who was interested in taking an active role in shaping their

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Thursday, 16 November, 2023

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STAR NEWS 13

NEWS

Arborist Barton Allen-Hall from Upwey is the world champion in tree climbing. 372431 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Alana Murray won the first place in the Women’s Master. 372431

Narre Warren resident Oliver Moore at 2023 VTCC. 372431

John Petrie presents Mat Holland (Chirnside Park) with The Spirit of the Compitition Award.

372431

Competing from the trees

By Violet Li Watching arborists perform stunts could easily trick you into an illusion that tree climbing is effortless.

The just-finished 2023 Victorian Tree Climbing Championships (VTCC) certainly pushed the false belief to the side when tree artists were seen to ascend, put the lines in, get into the spready red gums, and walk in the clouds.

Held at Banjo Paterson Reserve in Lynbrook from 11 to 12 November, more than 30 arborists convened and competed for the awards.

The championship started with five different events for preliminary rounds where the participants showcased their abilities to professionally and safely manoeuvre in a tree while performing work-related tree-care tasks in a timely manner.

The highest scoring participants went to the Masters’ Challenge - the championship round of the competition in which they fight for the male and female titles.

The Masters’ Challenge is designed to judge in a single challenge event the competitor’s overall poise, techniques, and mastery of the combined skills tested in preliminary events.

Two-time and 2023 ITCC champion Barton Allen-Hall won the men’s master and 2023 ITCC 4th place Alana Murray won the women’s. Jack Lewis who won the second place in the 2023 ITCC came second in the men’s.

Mr Allen-Hall and Ms Murray did a ‘shoey’, drinking a beer from a shoe, as a celebratory tradition.

Mr Allen-Hall believed being an arborist was a very interesting job and he had philosophical reasons.

“Every tree is different, so makes it more stimulating. You’re not just applying the same formula to every tree. You got to think each time,” he said.

“When you’re working, you’re working on a living thing. But, working on a living thing presents interesting challenges as opposed to building a building where they’re all the same.

“Trees are such three-dimensional things.

You don’t really get a sense of how they are until you are actually in the canopy. Climbing definitely gives you another perspective, a way to know trees and to connect with trees.”

Ms Murray, an arborist for seven years, said she truly enjoyed working for one of the most dangerous industries in Australia.

“I still found it daunting all the time,” she said.

“I come in with a load of nerves, but it’s just something that you gotta push through because the community is amazing and the sup-

Arborist Barton Allen-Hall. 372431

VTCC first-time competitor Nikita Anderson

Judges. 372431

Arborist Jordan Wong. 372431

work,” he said.

“Because we’re living around these organisms, so that’s why our jobs exist.”

He said it was nice to have events like VTCC. “It’s a big problem-solving exercise, really, and this competition sort of demonstrates problems of getting from this side of the tree to the other,” he continued.

“Maybe we can remove some branches where they might fall on someone or whether we could deal with a branch that might be snapped and hung. That’s the problem-solving aspect that I really like.”

VTCC first-time competitor Nikita Anderson, who has been in the industry for four

years, said it was a good atmosphere at the competition.

“Everybody’s so friendly and encouraging.

And it’s really good to meet other people that do the same work as you, and everybody’s interested in the same thing,” she said.

“You learn a lot of different things from a lot of different people, and everyone has their own unique way. So it’s good to hear what everybody else.”

The adrenaline and the rush she got from actually bringing down some big goals kept Ms Anderson in the industry.

“Everything’s different all the time too. It’s a different challenge every day,” she said.

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port’s amazing.

“Once you’re done, the feeling you get is brilliant.”

Apart from regulars in the ITCC, other arborists also shined their expertise, creativity, and most importantly their love for the lives on the trees.

Narre Warren resident Oliver Moore, who competed in the preliminary rounds has engaged with trees for about 18 years.

He started the tree climbing as way of keeping fit and he initially saw it very much a game.

“As I got a bit older and matured a little bit, I started to be more and more interested in the trees themselves and why we were doing this

Casey Council appoints new mowing contractors Following community feedback of last year’s mowing performance, Casey Council has conducted a thorough review of its mowing services model and has committed to providing an improved service to its community.

In line with this commitment, the council has awarded seven new mowing contracts to help maintain parks and open spaces.

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expansion would allow for a more effective mowing service for the community and address the backlog of grass growth through the spring months.

The new contractors commenced their mowing services on Monday 13 November.

During the transition to the new service model, the council said it would make every effort to address long grass at existing sites.

Thursday, 16 November, 2023

Picture: PETAR TONCHEV/UNSPLASH cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Immerse at Lyndale SC Lyndale Secondary College is a renowned educational institution located in Dandenong North, Melbourne. Established in 1961, the college has a rich history of providing quality education to students from diverse backgrounds. The college has a vibrant community of educators and learners who work collaboratively to develop the skills necessary for success in the 21st century.

Earlier this year, as part of a school council initiative, we went to a tender to purchase an Augmented Reality Immersive Technology Laboratory to improve student engagement and learning outcomes. The company is called Lumination, and we are the first and only Victorian government school to have purchased this technology. In fact, only 3 schools in Victoria have made this investment to use this resource (Girton Grammar, St Francis in addition to us). The official opening of our lab will be in mid-November.

Lyndale Secondary College’s SEAL (Select Entry Accelerated Learning) program is an excellent opportunity for high-achieving students who want to excel academically and challenge themselves. The program provides a rigorous and challenging curriculum, designed to stretch and develop students in English, Maths, and STEM subjects. It focuses on building critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and practical learning. Students in the SEAL program receive individualized support and guidance from highly trained and experienced teachers, who foster a love for learning and a positive learning environment.

Students develop leadership skills and form strong, lasting friendships with like-minded peers. By joining the SEAL program, students can unlock their potential and gain a valuable education that will prepare them for future success. We warmly welcome your interest in our college. Book a school tour today on 9795 2366.

Pam Robinson – Principal

Lyndale Secondary College is a renowned educational institution.

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STAR NEWS 15

NEWS

Service honours our fallen Hampton Park Progress Association ran a service at 11am on Saturday 11 November to honour Australians who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

More than 50 people attended the service, including Hampton Park Fire Brigade, Hampton Park Men’s Shed, the principal and students from Hampton Park Secondary College, Neighbourhood Watch Casey, 2023 Casey Citizen of the Year Jo-Ann Fitzgerald, Australian Air League-Berwick Squadron, former Casey councillor Wayne Smith, and MP Gary Maas.

Chair of Neighbourhood Watch Casey Damien Rosario hosted the ceremony and read the commemorative address.

Hampton Park Progress Association’s Luke DeLutis said it was important that we learnt from the past and never took for granted what we had today because of their ultimate sacrifice.

“Every year, we honour the sacrifice of those who have fallen to protect our freedoms,” he said.

“We thank our community partners for their unwavering support of our event as we unite to commemorate this solemn occasion.”

Hampton Park Secondary College students lay a wreath during the Remembrance Day service.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Post-event tea.

Over 50 people attended the service.

Hampton Park Fire Brigade members at the service.

Australian Air League-Berwick Squadron members.

Berwick reflects on war’s impacts at 11 November service

By Matthew Sims The Berwick community paused at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month to commemorate the 105th anniversary of the end of the First World War and remember all of those Australians lost to the devastating effects of war.

Berwick’s Returned and Services League (RSL) sub-branch hosted the Remembrance Day service, with local community members, veterans and politicians among the gathering around the Berwick cenotaph.

Reverend Elwyn Sparks spoke about the profound grief faced by family members of those killed during service.

“We remember the families and loved ones who were and still are affected by their loss,” she said.

“We pray for an end to the pain and kill-

ing.”

In his address, Berwick RSL’s Peter Beams said out of the 416,809 men enlisted, more than 60,000 servicemen died during the First World War. “Too many had died,” he said.

“Today’s sombre association has never changed.

“Our thoughts now turn to war’s enormous cost.”

The commemoration included a recital of the poem In Flanders’ Fields, the Last Post and Reveille and the Ode. A minute’s silence was then observed by the crowd, before local politicians, veteran groups and community members laid a series of wreaths at the memorial.

The ceremony concluded with the playing of the Australian National Anthem.

Reverend Elwyn Sparks spoke during the service. 372978

Ray Heathcote recited ‘In Flanders Fields’.

Berwick MP Brad Battin helped clean up a basket of poppies blown away in the wind.

Berwick RSL’s Peter Beams provided the address and recited the Ode. 372978

People of all ages placed poppies within the Berwick cenotaph. 372978 Pictures: MATTHEW SIMS

Berwick RSL’s Peter Beams.

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People of all ages placed poppies within the Berwick cenotaph. 372978

Casey Council chief executive Glenn Patterson laid a wreath. 372978

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FOCUS ON … DISABILITY

Soak in outdoors As the weather transitions and the seasons evolve, so does the spirit of community at SEC. With the arrival of warm, sunny days, our focus has shifted to engaging outdoor activities, giving birth to exciting new groups centered around Pokemon adventures and refreshing Walk and Talk sessions.

These initiatives have breathed life into our community, fostering connections and encouraging exploration of our surroundings.

The picturesque locales of Springers Park, the enchanting Dandenong Creek Walk, the serene Frankston Pier, and the expansive Casey Fields have become the backdrop for our newfound outdoor camaraderie, marking a return to these activities after a hiatus during the cooler, wetter months.

Amidst this vibrant atmosphere, SEC has undergone significant transformations, from relocating to a new office in Beaconsfield to expanding our support staff and diversifying the areas where we offer assistance to our

SEC eagerly anticipates embracing the future together, committed to fostering a supportive and enriching community.

Participants. These changes reflect our commitment to enhancing the quality of support and services we provide. As the year progresses

towards the festive season, our anticipation grows for the upcoming participant Christmas get-together - an event that embodies the warmth and togetherness of our SEC family.

Looking back on the year, we celebrate the remarkable progress of our participants.

Through nurturing relationships, fostering emotional growth, celebrating achievements, and empowering individuals to enhance their independence and capabilities, we have witnessed inspiring transformations.

As 2023 draws to a close, we eagerly anticipate the opportunities and challenges that 2024 will bring. With hearts full of excitement and gratitude, we embark on this journey with our participants and their families, embracing the promise of new experiences, growth, and shared accomplishments. Together, we look forward to embracing the future, united in our mission to create a supportive and enriching community at SEC.

Flying Free Choir a boost for the kids MYC’s Flying Free Choir is a quality music education program for primary-aged children with additional needs. The Flying Free Choir enables children to explore communication and socialisation skills through music, games and singing. Children learn to work as a team and develop self-confidence.

MYC is super excited to welcome Joey Cho to the teaching team! Joey is a graduating music therapist who is teaching in MYC’s Flying Free Choir for children with additional needs.

Joey brings with her a strong passion for enabling children to become the best they can be through music.

During October the Flying Free choristers joined MYC’s Heffernan Choir for two rehearsals. This was a fabulous integration opportunity, enabling all the children to get to know each other.

The Flying Free choristers were supported by some of the Heffernan choristers at MYC’s Showcase Concert in September, and it was great to be able to develop more understanding between choristers. This experience will become a regular part of MYC’s Flying Free program in the future. For more information about MYC’s Flying Free choir, please contact Kerry at manager.myc@gmail.com

Through music, games, and singing, the Flying Free Choir empowers children to develop communication and socialisation skills.

JobCo. Disability Services Provider Specialising in Mental Health Support We are a registered provider of NDIS and Disability Employment services, that has been assisting the community since 1995.

JobCo.’s mission is to ensure anyone seeking employment services, training, counselling or support is assisted to the highest standard.

We take an empowerment approach and support clients to develop independence and control over their personal recovery journey.

We are a not-for-profit & our services are FREE Locations all over South East Including Pakenham, Narre Warren, Cranbourne, Dandenong and more!

03 8388 7046 enquiries@jobco.com.au www.jobco.com.au

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In today’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, the toll on mental health cannot be ignored. A recent report reveals that mental illness costs the economy a staggering $200 to $220 billion annually, with workplaces contributing up to $17.4 billion to that figure. It’s a stark reminder that a healthy workforce is not only essential for individual wellbeing but also for economic prosperity.

Employers are increasingly recognising the need to address mental health issues within their organisations. The emergence of the Psychological Workplace Health and Safety legislation underscores a growing awareness of the importance of mental well-being in the workplace. JobCo Employment Services stands at the forefront of this movement, offering vital support to businesses navigating these critical issues. Understanding the complexities of the new Victorian Legislation is crucial for organisations aiming to create a mentally healthy work environment. JobCo Employment and Mental Health services provide essential education sessions, ensuring that businesses are well-informed and compliant with the latest regulations. This knowledge empowers employers to proactively address mental health concerns within their teams.

Professional guidance on risk assessments is another valuable service offered

by JobCo. By assisting businesses in formulating effective policies and procedures, they contribute to a workplace culture that prioritises mental health.

Training for both front-line and leadership teams is also available, fostering a comprehensive approach to mental wellbeing throughout the organisation.

Recognising and supporting current staff members experiencing mental health impairments is a responsibility that employers should not take lightly.

JobCo’s services extend to providing assistance in this critical area, ensuring that businesses are equipped to offer the necessary support to their team members in times of need. Moreover, JobCo offers Employment Assistance Programs (EAP)Confidential Counselling for employees to access (Offered by the Business owner) and Work Assist - a free government funded program to assist employees to maintain their employment if they are in jeopardy of losing employment due to poor mental health, demonstrating a commitment to not only addressing mental health issues but also promoting recovery and resilience within the workforce.

For inquiries and further information, contact Kevin Dent at kevin.dent@jobco. com.au or call 0417 513 353. Together, with proactive measures and a commitment to mental health education and recovery, we can create safe, productive workplaces that prioritise the well-being of every individual. Let’s build a future where mental health is a cornerstone of workplace culture.

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Helping staff

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STAR NEWS 17

NEWS

Foundation partners with YMCA to tackle violence

By Emma Xerri Violence-prevention charity, the Pat Cronin Foundation, is partnering with YMCA Victoria in a new initiative working to address and educate against violence on and off the sporting field.

The foundation is taking their popular Violence is Never OK seminar online, hoping to equip players 13 years and above with the tools needed to manage anger and aggression, and raise awareness of the broad, highly-impactful effects of senseless violence.

Foundation director Matt Cronin, whose son Pat Cronin lost his life to a senseless coward punch attack, has worked tirelessly with the foundation to deliver anti-violence presentations nation-wide.

“We give people an understanding of Pat’s story as well as a wealth of practical tips and strategies to deal with anger and aggression – which are life-changing skills just as relevant off the field as well as on,” he said.

The seminar is just one portion of the partnership being backed by a City of Casey grant, as part of the Victorian Government’s Empowering Communities initiative within the Building Safer Communities Program.

The partnership will also see the foundation deliver a series of violence-prevention education measures at Casey Stadium, and centre manager Josh Sadler urges all players, coaches and officials from the 300 clubs involved with the facility to partake in the seminar, which is also available to those participating in entrylevel sports across the wider community.

“This is such a crucial initiative and under-

Pat Cronin died aged 19 following a coward punch. scores our commitment to making a lasting, positive change in thousands of lives,” he said.

“As part of our partnership with the foundation, we’re aiming to convey to a million-plus visitors to the stadium this year the impor-

Pictures: SUPPLIED tance of empowering people with the tools to say no to violence.”

The free seminar will take place online on Tuesday 21 November at 7pm.

The Pat Cronin Foundation was established following the 19-year-old’s death.

Bookings are necessary and can be made at ViolenceisneverOK.eventbrite.com For more information about the Pat Cronin Foundation, visit patcroninfoundation.org.au

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

New community will keep buyers young at heart Halcyon Evergreen’s first home buyers, Paul and Diana Abel, are excited to immerse themselves in community living when they move into their new home next year.

Originally hailing from the United Kingdom, Paul and Diana have lived in Australia for more than 36 years and are currently residing in Frankston, Victoria.

Paul runs his own carpentry business and Diana is working from home, assisting with the business’ administration.

“I’m semi-retired and Paul is aiming to retire next year,” Diana said.

“Being in our mid-60s, we’re looking forward to making the most of our move to Halcyon Evergreen.”

The couple had been considering a move to a lifestyle community for some time, but still did a lot of research before purchasing at Halcyon Evergreen.

“We’d looked around at all the options and weren’t interested in retirement villages,” Diana said.

“But then we came across Halcyon Communities on Facebook and signed up for a tour of Halcyon Berwick.

“We were very impressed by the quality of the homes, which is a huge compliment given Paul’s background in carpentry!”

“The decision was made for us, but we still consulted our children, who were very excited.

They said we’ve worked hard all our lives and now it was time to enjoy it.”

The couple were also very impressed with the expansive facilities that Halcyon Evergreen will offer.

“We’re both quite social, so we’re really looking forward to meeting lots of people and trying new things,” Paul said.

“At our age, you need to respect where you’re at physically, so the health and wellness facilities will be important for us as we get older.”

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Halcyon Evergreen’s first home buyers, Paul and Diana Abel.

“We want to make the most of everything on offer to keep us young at heart.”

Diana agreed and said they are excited to try something new.

“We’ve never played pickleball, but we’ve

Thursday, 16 November, 2023

been watching videos and it looks so fun,” she said.

“There’s so much on offer, right on our doorstep.”

Halcyon Evergreen will feature 295 homes

and state-of-the-art leisure and lifestyle facilities including a gold-class style cinema, games room, social kitchen/dining/bar, enclosed pool, spa and health and wellness precinct. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

New homes from $535K* Image is artist’s impression only. Subject to change.

A lifestyle community with natural charm Located in Clyde and designed for over 55s, Halcyon Evergreen has no deferred management or exit fees.

Downsize in space while upsizing in living by moving into Halcyon Evergreen, Victoria's largest Halcyon community. Discover the benefits of living in a low maintenance home in a secure gated community while having resort-quality facilities at your doorstep.

Image is artist’s impression only. Subject to change.

With prices starting from $535K*, Halcyon Evergreen features 11 new two- and three-bedroom floorplan designs that can suit a variety of lifestyles.

If you’d like to arrange a private appointment to learn more or to visit our display homes, visit our website today or call 1800 050 050.` Image is artist’s impression only. Subject to change.

*Price correct as at November 2023. Subject to change. Price is based on the standard plans and speci ications and standard inclusions under the home purchase agreement. Price does not include additional costs that may be incurred under the home purchase agreement. Applies to selected home only. Subject to availability.

Scan the QR code to find out more or call us on 1800 050 050

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NEWS

Harry setting the bar high

By Jonty Ralphsmith Inexorably linked with any story about quick Dandenong first-round draft prospect Harry DeMattia is his multi-sport background.

He’s been exposed to high performance programs since the age of 12.

Firstly as skipper of a junior Australian indoor cricket team; mostly in outdoor cricket and footy.

For much of that time, he’s had a captaincy tag, for all of it he has carried the responsibility of leadership.

“From about under-12s, I’ve had those thoughts about how I can help people around me get to the same direction and same place I want to get to, and that usually buys into team success, which flowed into this year at Dandenong,” the Stingrays co-captain revealed.

“Those conversations I have with people, it’s important that I show people that (what I’m saying) is coming from a good place, constructive and trying to better them.

“I want to get them in a better direction in the long term, even if they may not see it short term, because if you keep letting those habits happen, it’s just going to stem into a bigger issue.

DeMattia could speak about leadership for hours.

He watches extra vision to familiarise himself with the structure of different lines so he can better communicate with players.

In preseason, when he was sidelined for six weeks, he was busy learning about structure and strengthening ties with teammates to understand how to support them, alongside his own modified training.

“When a player gets injured we give them a program to guide them, but the intrinsic motivation is up to the athlete to drive it and do it themselves: there is no-one better than him,” said Stingrays coach Nick Cox. “No-one better.

“And that’s why he’s where he’s at.”

A common theme teammates discuss about DeMattia is his way with words: on-field he instructs like an army corporal, off it he sets spirits, supports, inspires and delivers clear

Harry DeMattia’s leadership has been eyecatching in 2023. 372685 Harry DeMattia’s instructions on-field are impossible to miss for onlookers. 372685 Picture: JAZZ BENNETT messages.

The standard-setting which comes naturally from his sporting background also didn’t go unnoticed.

“People are falling in love with his leadership and it’s not fake: he doesn’t tell you what you want to hear, it’s what it is,” coach Nick Cox said.

“His leadership is second to none.

“He wouldn’t ask someone to do something he couldn’t do and he wouldn’t ask someone to do something he knew they couldn’t do.

“He made players accountable and made our club better.”

To streamline his focus on-field, ‘impact’ and ‘consistency’ were two words which anchored his mindset, materialising clearly in his

own game but discussed with inherently selfless decorum.

“I wanted to be a ruthless player and ruthless person around the club but make it a really enjoyable environment to walk into every week,” DeMattia said.

“I wanted everyone to walk into the program and then leave and be better in every aspect and that’s not just players,.

“It’s people around the club, families and the girls program.

“I put the onus on myself to go and develop people when I’m out there as well and also being honest and critical when I need to be on myself or other people if their training standards aren’t up to scratch or they’re not willing to buy into the values and direction we want

to go.”

The left-footer finished in the top five at the national combine for the 20-metre sprint which is something he continued to strengthen in 2023 with Rays high performance coach Ben Benson.

The teenager’s explosiveness, strength and versatility were all features of his footy this year, averaging 19 disposals and five tackles for the Stingrays, playing mostly on the ball.

For Vic Country, the Edi-Asp junior averaged 14 disposals and four tackles.

“The great thing about him, wherever he plays next year, he can shut someone down, he’s relentless in that area and forward he can play a role because of his running ability as well,” Cox said.

“He’s got some real top-end attributes to his game which will help him fit in anywhere.”

Loyal Simpson AFL ready: ‘I want to be a one-club player’

By Jonty Ralphsmith During preseason, Dandenong midfield coach Leigh Stewart anointed the nickname ‘extras king’ for Cooper Simpson.

Despite being on the road back from glandular fever dating back to the 2022 finals series, he quickly clicked into gear.

The teenager was all the hype going into 2023 after a glittering bottom-aged year.

Simpson last year skippered the Stingrays for a game, kicked a match-winner to cap a polished best-on-ground performance in a crunch match against Gippsland and was consistent throughout September.

Injuries denied him continuity and external plaudits this season, but the Rays cocaptain still took the right steps, recognised by those who matter.

Expected to be picked in the second round, partially because of the interrupted 2023, he’ll be a bargain for whoever takes the punt.

“If I’m lucky enough to get drafted, that’s where I’d envisage spending the rest of my life at,” Simpson said.

“I want to be a one-club player wherever I go and I’ll give my all to that club.

“I’m a loyal person, loyal to my teammates and loyal to the (Stingrays) and I’m an honest person, so I love seeing blokes develop and get great joy from seeing people get better as a human.”

The attention to detail that earned him the preseason nickname was commonplace throughout 2023.

Simpson recalls a night where he was doing ground balls with Stewart after a midweek training session at Shepley Oval.

That pair and iconic property steward Frankie Martinez were the only ones left at training when the lights got switched off.

“He’s always looking for something extra 20 STAR NEWS

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Cooper Simpson’s pinpoint kick is honed on an NFL punter’s net at home.

Cooper Simpson got to play only a half for Vic Pictures: JAZZ BENNETT Country. 372677 to do and it’s nothing sexy or fancy, it’s just ground-ball or midfield craft,” Stewart said.

“He wins the footy so well but we wanted

Thursday, 16 November, 2023

to make a point of him being last hands on the footy.

“When he was the last link in the chain, it was better for us as a team and it could showcase his beautiful kick.”

At home, Simpson had an NFL punter’s net

to help hone his sizzling kick.

For Christmas last year, the first present he opened was a rebound net.

Another tool to work on his touch.

“My cleanliness, I put a lot of work and time into my hands and my kicking on both sides of my body,” Simpson said.

“I think I’m a hard worker offensively and defensively and that’s where I can get a lot of teams.”

But the year didn’t play out the way Simpson had hoped - and it was out of his control.

Following the glandular fever in preseason, a corkie kept him out of round one.

And then the major blow: a corkie suffered in the first Vic Country game.

“It felt like a sledgehammer going into the side of my leg,” Simpson recounted of the incident at Ikon Park, Carlton.

“I was in a lot of pain.

“I was super ready for that game, I’ve been dreaming of that opportunity for so long and then it got taken away from me pretty quickly.”

When he did play, there were pleasing signs.

He held his own in a pair of AFL Academy games against state league sides and made his senior debut for Casey.

In his eight games as co-skipper of Dandenong, there were several high points, including finishing the year well on the wing.

“We’re really happy he bought into that [wing role],” Dandenong coach Nick Cox said.

“That’s probably where he can play straight away in the AFL I would have thought, on a wing or high half forward.

“It was good he was able to showcase that as the season finished and he hit the scoreboard as well.”

“He’s an ultimate professional and a ready made AFL player.” cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Relief as mustang returns

By Ethan Benedicto A 37-year-old man from Narre Warren was arrested on Wednesday 8 November for stealing a rare Mustang from Ferntree Gully in October.

The man was charged with theft of a motor vehicle, specifically a $400,000 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR, a car that is one of a kind in Australia and one of 24 across the globe.

In addition, he was also charged with driving while disqualified and possessing drugs of dependence.

A search warrant was executed at a residential address in Carrum Downs on 1 November, where the vehicle was recovered with minor damages.

Craig Dean, owner of Mustang Motorsport, was relieved when he was informed by detective senior constable Michael Gatt that the vehicle had been recovered.

“He rang me up and said ‘you’re going to have to bring your spare keys out to me’ and I said ‘oh, beauty, you found it?’”, Mr Dean said.

There were initial concerns that the vehicle had been broken down and stripped for parts, but detective senior constable Gatt assured that would be unlikely.

“Because of its value and rarity, I expected the car would be kept in some sort of good condition, which is mostly the case,” Mr Gatt said.

In the span of its absence, the car had been repainted black and the spoiler was removed, all of which proved to be an easy fix for Mr Dean’s team.

“It was relatively easy to put it back to where it should be, “The boys looked at it and they were able to

peel the paint off, thanks to a sealant we use on our cars, and there was no major damage.”

As a car enthusiast himself, and a fellow Ford fan, Mr Gatt said he was “probably more relieved than Craig”.

“This investigation took a lot of long days, especially as it went on but it’s good to see the car handed back to its owner and brought back to its former glory.”

These charges initially came as the report went through at 3.45pm on Wednesday 11 October, where two men were captured by CCTV entering the workshop and driving off with the vehicle.

Being on holiday at the time, Mr Dean was contacted by workshop manager James, who had informed him of the vehicle’s theft.

As for Mr Gatt, cases like these were rather common occurrences for him and his team.

“It’s not unusual to search for cars this rare, particularly because of the value, its rarity and its attention.

“It’s a big asset for a business, and a person, to lose,” Mr Gatt said.

As for Mr Dean and his team, he is grateful to authorities and the community for the help in finding the vehicle and having it returned home.

“I didn’t want to put too much pressure on anyone and make a big deal about it, that doesn’t solve anything.

“It was just a material thing, no one was hurt but it was of course a financial loss – I wasn’t crying but I was disappointed,” Mr Dean said.

The Narre Warren man appeared in the Magistrates Court on 9 November and another 32-year-old Carrum Downs man was interviewed and released without charge.

Craig Dean next to the rare Mustang GT500 KR.

Picture: ETHAN BENEDICTO

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Calling out for local gems

By Jordan Crugnale, Bass MP We have so many gems living amongst us who make our hearts sing because of who they are, what they do, how they help.

Whether it is an act of kindness, an exemplary service, a community interaction beyond expectation, genuine care for others – they make a difference, change lives for the better and bring a sense of connection and joy.

This is your opportunity to nominate these amazing community minded locals and highlight their awesomeness by writing a few paragraphs on why they have been so special to you, someone you know, or their community.

I am asking for your help as I too want to acknowledge, recognise and thank those that have shown their true community colours in 2023.

From Pearcedale to Clyde, Tooradin to Bay-

Nominate your 2023

Gems!

les, Lang Lang across to Grantville, over to Phillip Island and down to Inverloch, nominations are open to all ages living or working in the Bass electorate.

Stories are already flooding in, they are heart warmingly beautiful and just what we need to hear.

Everyone nominated will receive a personalised thank you letter of appreciation. In an active gesture of supporting small businesses and local creatives, five outstanding nominees will receive a hamper of ‘all things local’ including produce, products, music, books and a gift voucher to a local nature based attraction.

To nominate that special someone, go to my Facebook page, press the send email button or you can email jordan.crugnale@parliament.vic.gov.au or call the office on 5672 4755.

Nominations close Thursday 30 November.

Previous Community Gems - Sarah Cochrane, Sunday Chak, Libby Skidmore + Coral Smith

WHO HAS MADE YOUR HEART SING THIS YEAR? I really want to hear about it, so I can thank them too!

It could be an act of kindness small or big.

A caring and thoughtful gesture seen in your school, work, street, club or town.

Jordan Crugnale, Harry and Angus. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION You can send me an email, post a letter, fb message or call my office.

Please include their name, an address & contact details as well.

Open to all ages living or working in the Bass electorate.

Nominations close Thursday 30 November

12649044-AV46-23

Exceptional service at your favourite shop, cafe, local market, on the bus, at the servo, a volunteer, a community member going above and beyond to help others.

Also 5 hampers filled with beautiful local products, produce and vouchers to gift in appreciation.

Thursday, 16 November, 2023

|

STAR NEWS 21

NEWS

The Lost Dogs’ Home Cranbourne service delivery team leader Sally Laity with Krispy Kreme who is waiting for her new home.

Pictures: VIOLET LI

Foster or adopt a dog

By Violet Li The Lost Dogs’ Home Cranbourne is appealing to the community to help rehome more than 30 dogs.

Service delivery team leader Sally Laity said the shelter had been in an unprecedented position amid the cost-of-living crisis.

“Throughout the Covid, people have been breeding a large number of dogs because you were able to sell puppies for a lot of money,” she said.

“After the Covid, people just aren’t that keen.

“We take a lot of calls each day for people who want to surrender their dogs and maybe can’t keep them anymore.”

Ms Laity said the Cranbourne shelter was a small one and their North Melbourne branch was bigger with around 100 dogs waiting for adoption.

“I’ve been working here for 18 years now, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen it like this, and it [adoption] is taking a long time too,” she said.

“Some of our dogs have been available for adoption for very long. One of them has been

12647066-HC46-23

22 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 November, 2023

in our care since March this year.”

Though dealing with a large area and covering six different councils, the number of animals going back to the community has not been high, according to Ms Laity.

“We’ve also got an extensive foster program, so that’s another way that people can help. If you’re not in a position to be able to adopt, you can foster a dog or a cat or kittens,” she suggested.

“So a lot of us [staff] do foster care as well.

I’ve got foster kittens at home. So we do a little bit of everything.”

All of the animals in the Lost Dogs’ Home Cranbourne are available for immediate adoption, desexed, vaccinated and worm treated.

“You don’t need to make an appointment.

Just pop down between our opening hours,” Ms Laity said.

“If you want to adopt a dog, you need to bring any children in your home and any other dogs in your home in with you.

“The expectation is if you fall in love with a dog, you take it home on the day.”

To know more about the dogs, visit dogshome.com/dog-adoption/adopt-a-dog

Krispy Kreme, a staffy cross, has been in the shelter since March. She loves to play. cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Handmade gifts galore The Beaconsfield Baptist Church transformed into a treasure trove of craft creations and brica-brac over the weekend, as part of its annual Make and Mingles Craft Fair.

Initially starting in 1999, the craft fair was a way for the members of the Make and Mingle group to sell the craft items they had made during the year and has now evolved into a large-scale community event.

The event showcased a number of local businesses, including Bunyip Bears, and a wide variety of craft items for sale, including wooden toys, handmade greeting cards, quilts, jewellery, knitted toys, crocheted rugs, scrap booking supplies and baby clothing.

Make and Mingle is a friendship and craft group for people in Beaconsfield and the surrounding community which meets from 10am to noon each Wednesday during school terms.

For more information, contact makeandmingle@beaconsfieldbaptist.com.au

Stallholder Christine Bride from Bunyip Bears with Make and Mingles Craft Fair coordinator Bev Griffiths. 370806

People from far and wide came together to take a look at the goods on offer.

Iris and Linda from Beaconsfield checking out some Christmas craft items. 370806

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Mathie Chandrananth, Lyla Blew and Yvonne Pascall. 370806

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Stallholder Carole Young with Make and Mingles Craft Fair coordinator Bev Griffiths. 370806

Thursday, 28 January, 2021

Stallholders Helen Visscher and Doreen Robertson. 370806

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Rex name shame

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“They need to have their plaques removed

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

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

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

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

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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

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

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

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

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

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Thursday, 16 November, 2023

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STAR NEWS 23

WHAT’S ON Pakenham/Berwick Women’s Friendship Cafe luncheon

Gethsemane’s Annual Clyde Carols By Candlelight

The Pakenham/Berwick Women’s Friendship Cafe end of year luncheon will be held at Living and Learning Pakenham from noon to 2pm on Thursday 14 December.

Vegan and halal food options available.

Each year the cake is a ‘tour de force’ featuring an artwork drawn by Rana Sadeghian and made

by Pam Archibald.

There is a giant raffle that will enable the Women’s Friendship Cafe to continue into its 7th year.

To RSVP, contact Living and Learning Pakenham at 5941 2389 before Monday 11 December.

Thursday 14 December.

Saturday 16 December, 5pm to 9pm, Hillcrest Christian College Oval, 500 Soldiers Road, Clyde North.

Presented by Gethsemane Church and Charity for the seventh consecutive year.

The event is back live and on-site and online as the television presentations and radio broadcasts continue.

Hosted by Pastor Kerrigan La-Brooy, the event will include festive cheer, a carnival atmosphere, gifts, giveways, prizes, live performances, television appearances, food vendors, a hydration station, children’s rides, amusements and a special visit from Santa Claus.

The event is launching Gethsemane’s ‘Christmas Miracle’ with gifts for every registered child present at the event’s registration desk.

For more information, email kerriganlabrooy@bigpond.com or contact 0404 875 647 or register your interest at facebook.com/events/1817253545397267

·Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

Are you newly retired or new to the area or just 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 enjoy an afternoon tea.

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.

The club is also hosting a formal Christmas lunch on Tuesday 5 December at Dandenong Club. Come along and get to know us by visiting us on a Thursday at 2pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House or join us on a Wednesday at 10 am for a Coffee at Little Sparrow Fountaingate. For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.

·

·

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

The club recently had a busy Open Day and have welcomed some new friends to its Tai Chi and Art classes.

New members are welcome to come along from 10am to 2.30pm on weekdays for lots of fun and laughter.

Gethsemane Church Inc’s Gail Kavanagh is excited for the upcoming Christmas carols event. 201137 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Classes in calligraphy, art, chess, sewing, knitting and card making are also running.

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.

·

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre is

a not-for-profit community managed centre, with a volunteer Committee of Management that provides strategic direction and oversight.

For more than 30 years, the centre has provided a range of high-quality childcare, community services, educational classes and spaces for hire.

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.

For more details, visit merindapark.com.au or facebook.com/MPLandCC

·

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.

·

N I W LY FAMISES PAS

Get ready for the most exciting event of the year.

Christmas Under the Big Top is coming to Burnley Oval, Richmond from November 24th to December 24th.

With over 2 and a half hours of unlimited festive fun, this extraordinary event has something for everyone!

Star News has 10 x Family passes to giveaway to readers for the 7pm Friday 24th November performance!

ENTER NOW TO WIN Check out the show - christmasunderthebigtop.com.au 24 STAR NEWS

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Thursday, 16 November, 2023

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You’ll be able to experience the magic of Christmas in our interactive walkthrough under the big top tent, where you can see,hear, touch, and smell all the wonders of the season.

cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Batteries a burning risk

By Matthew Sims Casey Council has urged residents not to put batteries in kerbside bins to help keep the community safe.

Batteries consist of toxic substances and can pose risks to your property and the people who empty your bins.

When batteries are placed in household bins, they can cause fires both in the bins and in the trucks that collect them.

So far this year, there have been five ’hot loads’ or in-truck battery fires across Casey.

Casey Council sustainability and waste manager Michael Jansen said Victoria Police, the State Emergency Service and Country Fire Authority were required to assist at the scene of the fires.

“The hot loads were tipped out in a safe space and foam was applied,” he said.

“In the most serious case, the truck was offroad for a fortnight due to damage that had been done to the wiring that runs through the top of the truck.”

Mr Jansen said residents should be careful not to put batteries in kerbside bins.

“If you need to dispose of batteries of any size, please take these to a battery drop-off so they can be recycled,” he said.

“This includes AA, button and rechargeable batteries, as well as batteries from cars, laptops, mobile phones, cameras, power tools and electronic toys.”

Tips to store your batteries safely at home before taking them to a drop-off include: Cover the ends of used batteries with duct

·

Pace Live Entertainment will present A Celtic Christmas at Bunjil Place.

Picture: SUPPLIED

A Celtic Christmas show tape or clear sticky tape, to prevent sparking and reduce the risk of fire; Store them in a glass container and make sure the container is not airtight; Don’t keep them in metal containers or with other metal objects; Store them in a cool, dry place away from heat sources; and Keep them away from children and pets.

Local battery drop-off locations are at the Hampton Park Recycling Centre and Transfer Station, Pakenham Waste Transfer Station (Future Recycling), Frankston Regional Recycling and Recovery Centre, Lysterfield Transfer Station, local Officeworks locations and Ecoactiv.

For more information on the disposal of various items, visit casey.vic.gov.au/how-getrid-waste-unwanted-items

· · · ·

An Australian-Irish dancing company is bringing the Celtic Christmas spirit on their latest tour to Bunjil Place on 30 November.

Pace Live Entertainment will present its tour called A Celtic Christmas through an arsenal of exceptional Irish dancers and world-class musicians, blending song and dance that embodies the heart of the festive season.

Director and producer of the show, Brent Pace said that they have “curated a spectacular line-up, featuring unparalleled talents from across the globe”.

“From world-class musicians to the most skilled Irish dancers, our stage is graced by the very best in the industry.”

The cast will feature Sean Michael McHugh, the company’s dance director with 15 years of experience in another popular musical Lord of The Dance.

Joining Sean will be Ciara Loughran, 2022’s senior ladies’ world champion in

Irish Dance, both with the goal of showing audiences the festivities of Irish Christmas.

Ceili Moore, a producer for the show said that it is “a tapestry woven with the rich threads of Irish influence”.

“With brand new music that captures the essence of our heritage and talents that echo through every note, we invite our audience to immerse themselves in a truly authentic Irish experience.”

Both Brent Pace and Ceili Moore have made a name for themselves on the world stage of Irish dancing, winning world championships and dancing alongside other talents such as Michael Flatley, Riverdance and Gaelforce.

With both director and producer from lineages of well-known Irish dancing families in Australia, Pace Live Entertainment Group aims to make the show not just a performance but a journey into the soul of Ireland.

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STAR NEWS 25

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The applicant for the permit is:

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The application reference number is:

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You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority.

City of Casey Bunjil Place 2 Patrick Northeast Drive NARRE WARREN This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Documents can also be viewed on Council’s website:

฀

https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/viewplanning-applications

฀

0417 382 700

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.

An objection must: • be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au • include the application number and site address • include the reasons for the objection, and • state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

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STAR NEWS 27

BUSINESS PROFILE

Friendly bowls competition Officer Lifestyle Estate at Officer has invited local bowls clubs to participate in the inaugural Officer Lawn Bowls Tournament, competing for the Officer Cup. On Friday 24 November 2023 from 10am, Berwick Bowling Club and Pakenham Bowling Club will compete against the residents’ team in the friendly competition. Residents of Officer Lifestyle Estate will host the event including morning tea, sausage sizzle and a craft stall. Everyone is welcome and for those not playing bowls, there will be other leisure activities to enjoy.

Officer Lifestyle Estate is an established over 55s land lease community on McMullen Street, Officer. The Estate is being developed and managed by Lincoln Place and is currently home to more than 100 happy residents enjoying a range of lifestyle facilities including a Homeowners Lodge, indoor swimming pool, spa and sauna, gym, cinema, library, bowling green and a thriving community garden. New

homes are available for sale and display homes will be open for inspection.

The friendly bowling competition is to recognise that the Estate residents are very much part of the broader Officer community, using local services, shopping, and enjoying recreational activities.

According to Development Manager, Will Stirling, local connections beyond Officer Lifestyle Estate are important.

“Some of our residents have moved to Officer from other areas and establishing local connections is important. The bowling competition is a great opportunity for residents to meet other likeminded locals and widen their social networks.”

Location: Officer Lifestyle Estate, 34 McMullen Road, Officer.

Phone: 1300 844 492.

Website: lincolnplace.com.au/officerlifestyleestate

Officer Lifestyle Estate at Officer has invited local bowls clubs to participate in the inaugural Officer Lawn Bowls Tournament, competing for the Officer Cup.

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SPORT

Garrett guides her Australian’s to title A late spell from Ryan Patterson kept HSD in the game against Cranbourne.

371011 Picture: ROB CAREW

By Marcus Uhe Matilda Garrett’s incredible year on the netball court continued over the weekend when she led Australia as captain to a second-consecutive championship at the Fast5 Netball World Series in Christchurch.

The Australian team lost the opening match of the tournament to Jamaica, but won its remaining four of the round-robin series to qualify for the final against New Zealand - which finished 35-23 in Garrett’s team’s favour.

Australia took a five-goal lead into the first break and maintained it in the second half, but stretched the gap even further as the contest continued.

The Australian team allowed only two goals in the final quarter, with Garrett awarded Player of the Final.

The captaincy and result adds to a dream 2023 for the Cranbourne and Narre Warren product, on the back of a Super Netball championship with the Adelaide Thunderbirds in July and an Australian Diamonds debut against South Africa last month, when she became the 191st player to wear the national colours.

Garrett was a reserve player at last year’s event but did not take the court.

Head coach of the Australian Fast5 program Nicole Richardson said Garrett earned the opportunity on the back of a huge year.

“Matilda has demonstrated immense growth over the last year, and we feel her exposure to the Diamonds environment will be a

Cranbourne has the edge

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Matilda Garrett has capped off a memorable year by captaining Australia to victory in the Fast5 Picture: LINDA HIGGINSON/AAP PHOTOS Netball World Series in Christchurch. 373166 strong asset in this captaincy role,” Richardson told Netball Australia.

“Both Matilda and Hannah (Petty, vice captain) were outstanding from a leadership perspective during camp and I look forward to seeing them lead this amazing group of athletes.”

Fast5 Netball has been likened to the sport’s equivalent of T20 cricket with adjusted rules

for a fast-paced game.

Only five players per team take the court at once, compared to seven for a normal match, and rolling substitutions mid-game are permitted.

Goals scored from outside the goal circle are worth three points, with the circle split into one and two-point scoring zones.

Recruiting coup: Panthers sign Hermann

By Jonty Ralphsmith Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League (MPFNL) Division 2 club Devon Meadows has signed West Gippsland Football Netball Competition (WGFNC) star Brendan Hermann.

The Panthers confirmed that Hermann put pen to paper on Friday night after a storied career with Nar Nar Goon.

Hermann played the first seven games of 2023 for Nar Nar Goon, named in the best four times, absent for the rest of the season due to injury.

The on-baller has won four best-andfairests in a career spanning more than 150 senior games.

Coach Ryan Hendy said Hermann would add class to an already star-studded midfield.

Former AFL player Dean Kent, star former Narre premiership captain Trent Cody, and star play-makers Joel Hillis and Nick Battle will be among the players battling with Hermann for time in the Panthers’ engine room.

Brendan Hermann will be a Panther in 2024.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

277792

They are expected to be fed by Patrick Ryder who had surgery in the off-season to have him ready to spend more time in the ruck in 2024 after kicking 43 goals as a key forward in 10 games in 2023.

“We were after a fair bit of leg-speed which is obviously what ’Baz’ has and he’s really good overhead,” Hendy said.

“We got beaten with our leg-speed (in the preliminary final) against Mornington.

“Playing in finals series, you need leg-

speed so hopefully it gels together.

“He’s played really consistent footy for a lot of years and we thought he would be a perfect fit for us.”

Hermann is a spiritual leader and former skipper of Nar Nar Goon, his leadership adding to co-captains Nick Battle and Dean Kent, while Patrick Ryder, Joel Hillis and Jayden Sullivan are also important in that space.

Hermann’s signature comes after Mordialloc pair Jack Bailey and Dylan Gregson and Hampton Park’s Jack Wilson were already added to the 2024 list, the club indicating that would bring an end to its recruiting.

Jamie Plumridge (Keysborough) is the only departure from Devon Meadows’ best lineup in 2023.

“We feel we’ve covered all bases,” Hendy said of the list.

“We recruited strategically, we only wanted to get players who would fill holes.

The feeling’s really good, everyone’s chomping at the bit to get back after what happened last season.”

Cranbourne’s clash with Heinz Southern Districts (HSD) remains in the balance with the hosts 31 runs adrift with four wickets in the shed at Casey Fields.

HSD batted first and was never able to inject momentum into its innings, routed for 126 as gun-recruit Mackenzie Gardner skippered the side in the absence of Craig Hookey and again missed out.

After a 65-run opening partnership, an inspired late-afternoon spell from first-change seamer Ryan Patterson saw the Eagles lose 6/30 to keep the Cobras in the hunt.

The club’s two leading runscorers this season, Harsaroup Singh and Sajana De Silva are currently at the crease, giving Cranbourne the edge, but Patterson’s 4/33 has given the visitors a sniff.

Having already played two important cameos this season, Cam Kelly passed 50 for Cranbourne off just 45 balls in a knock that suddenly carries great significance in the context of the match.

Two early wickets for Cranbourne gave it momentum in this crunch match against HSD. The Cobras then lost Brent Patterson just as they got the game back in the balance, with Cranbourne able to easily run through the HSD middle-order.

Triyan De Silva made a quickfire 45 amid the carnage, while Liam Jansen and Jordan Margenberg dug in and briefly frustrated, but did little scoreboard damage, their team bowled out for a modest total.

The winless Narre Warren, meanwhile, is well-positioned to get off the mark against Keysborough, after opener Luke Clarke’s 68 propelled the Magpies to 9/267.

Narre’s middle-order all got starts, with eight players reaching at least 14, with Sahan Jayawardana’s 70 capitalising on a fatiguing attack thanks to Clarke’s foundation.

Dandenong West’s clash with Lyndale will be played as a two-day game across Saturday and Sunday due to the Dandenong Show impacting the availability of Greaves Reserve this weekend.

Swans fire with Chandrasinghe and Kannan class acts

By Marcus Uhe There were no issues with the bat for Casey South Melbourne on Saturday hitting 301 for the loss of only two wickets on a bumper batting day at Casey Fields against Kingston Hawthorn.

Ashley Chandrasinghe sent a reminder of his class to Victorian selectors with 113 in a 180-run partnership with Harrish Kannan, who raised the bat himself with 124.

The two began their union in the ninth over when Yash Pednekar was bowled for just five and batted for 66 overs together to take the score from 1/14 to 2/194.

Former Swans captain Michael Wallace added a quick half-century late in the day off only 54 deliveries to heap the pressure on the Hawks, whose bowlers were fresh off a tough cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

day in the field just seven days prior against Dandenong.

It’s two 300-plus scores in consecutive rounds for the Swans after blitzing Camberwell for 355 in round three.

They’ll begin the day next week with the option of continuing on with the bat, but the sparkling form of Nathan Lambden, the competition’s second-highest wicket taker, will be hard to ignore, should they choose to take the new ball.

Meanwhile, Dandenong’s bowling attack will need to be at the top of its game next week after the batting group’s glittering run in Victorian Premier Cricket came to an end against Frankston Peninsula on Saturday.

The Panthers finished the day at 9/218 from 96 overs at Jubilee Park as the top order failed

to convert its starts.

Dhanusha Gamage was dismissed for the first time in his short tenure at the top level, equal top-scoring with Josh Slater on 52.

Gamage and captain Brett Forsyth’s 58-run stand for the second wicket was the largest partnership of the day, as regular wickets from the Heat consistently disrupted batting momentum.

Where Gamage, Forsyth and Slater all made starts, the remainder of the top seven in Andrey Fernando (4), Max Marinic (6), Matthew Wilson (8) and Sam Newell (3) all failed to reach double figures.

Right-arm quick Brodie Symons was the pick of the Heat’s bowlers taking 4/58, with former Australian Test spinner Jon Holland claiming 2/51.

Harrish Kannan topscored for Casey South Melbourne on Saturday with 124. 262690 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Thursday, 16 November, 2023

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STAR NEWS 29

SPORT

Humble eight-wicket hero

By David Nagel It will come as no surprise to anyone that knows him that Jason Williams would play down his own achievements and share the plaudits with others after his epic eight-wicket haul for Pakenham (0/27) against Devon Meadows (160) on Saturday.

The 37-year-old, known to most as Boof, returned the best bowling figures of his career (20.5-8-47-8) in a spell-binding performance that can only be described as brilliant.

But not by the man himself.

“To be honest, I didn’t really bowl that well,” the off-spinner said with a familiar chuckle.

“I bowled a lot of half trackers, and a few full tosses as well; I was just trying to turn it as much as I could.

“It was just one of those days where the boys fielded well and I was the beneficiary of some good bowling from the young blokes, Jordy (Seers) and Marcus (Martini) at the other end.

“They were bowling really tight, so the batsmen came harder at me and made my figures look better than they probably should have been.

“It’s good to get eight wickets, but I had quite a bit of help from the young blokes.”

After winning the toss and batting, Devon Meadows started well against the Lions with openers Lucas Ligt (27) and promising youngster Will Halton (55) putting on a 45-run partnership.

The left-right combination complemented each other beautifully, with the Lions struggling to bowl tight lines Skipper Dale Tormey set a concentrated 7-2 off-side field, but any pressure was released with several balls drifting onto the leg side.

The Lions upped their game after 10 overs, with keeper Rob Elston coming up to the stumps which seemed to change the momentum somewhat.

It was a tactic employed successfully by Tooradin keeper Ben Parrott last week, and it worked again, with a free-flowing scoring rate slowing down as a consequence.

It just added a different element to think about for the batters.

The Lions renewed consistency and tight lines - and Elston’s presence - would soon pay dividends, with Ligt pulling a short ball from James Close (9-1-25-1) into the safe hands of Jordan Seers at square leg.

That’s when tickets to the ‘Jason Williams Show’ were clipped.

‘Boof’ would take the next four wickets to fall, before handing over to Seers who removed the classy Halton to make the score 6/119.

Williams would then take back control, claiming the last four wickets to fall.

The talented right-handed all-rounder played his first senior game for Pakenham in 2003.

He played two seasons at Cranbourne in the DDCA from 2009 to 2011, before making the move back to Toomuc.

He is one of the most respected figures in the WGCA/CCCA over the last two decades, with his laconic nature and smiling face attracting many fans to his supporter base.

“I do love it, and having the backing of my

Jacobus Hynes blasted his maiden career century for Cardinia against Clyde on Saturday.

368093

‘Boof’ in full flight. Jason Williams steps to the crease on his way to an incredible eight-wicket Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS haul against Devon Meadows on Saturday. 372557

From left; Pakenham skipper Dale Tormey and Jack Anning follow Jason Williams off at the tea break. 372557

wife (Bree) is something I really do appreciate; I’ve always had the mentality that you’re a long time retired in anything that you do,” he said.

“I don’t take sport, or life, that seriously, and if you’re going to play sport you may as well have some fun while you’re doing it.

“I love to have a joke with the boys…and I think it helps my cricket as well.

“Things sort of flow on from being relaxed, and having fun is a big part of that.”

Williams has a beautifully smooth bowling action…one that he has honed himself over the years.

It took him from behind the stumps…to bowling at them.

“I was a keeper through the junior years, and just started mucking around and bowling off-spin with a few mates,” he said.

“I would keep for 20 overs, then rip off the pads and bowl a few overs and it just grew from there.

“I’ve just worked on my technique over the years, found what’s worked for me, and haven’t changed my action like I did five times through my twenties.

“From 30 onwards, I found the action that I’ve got now…and it seems to work.”

The Lions’ eight-wicket hero has a simple philosophy when trotting in to the bowling crease.

“My biggest thing is that I try to turn it as much as possible,” he explained.

“Everything flows from that; if I can get through my action and try to give it a rip, the flight and drift all stem from that.

“It’s great to have the confidence of blokes like Rob (Elston), Dale (Tormey) and Dom

with the younger players finding their feet.

“Not really…the kids are learning their craft, and sometimes it’s not easy for them because we’re still a pretty good team,” he said.

“If they were playing in lesser sides, they’d probably be bowling more, but it’s a catch-22 because they’re playing in a team where they get to pick our brains and learn off us older guys as well.

“We’re trying to pass the baton on a bit; and they can watch the way we go about it and start to have more of an impact as they learn.

“The wheel is turning; now the young guys have first crack and we’re there to fall back on if needed.

“We’re giving them more of the responsibility…and we’re always there to support them.

“I got the rewards this week, and Dale (Tormey) has at times as well, but it’s on the back of those younger guys having first shot.

“They’ll get rewarded for their hard work one day, if they just keep sticking at it.”

And when they do get their rewards…the self-effacing Jason ‘Boof’ Williams will be the first to pat them on the back.

CCCA PREMIER - ROUND 6 TWO-DAYER (DAY ONE) Clyde v Cardinia 7/335 (Jacobus Hynes 109, Alex Nooy 77, Bradey Welsh 49, Max Adams 3/57) Merinda Park 141 (Daniel McCalman 41, Tyson Bertrand 41, Brad Butler 3/26)) v Tooradin 0/52, Pakenham 0/27 v Devon Meadows 160 (Will Halton 55, Jason Williams 8/47), Kooweerup 0/90 (Chris Bright 75*) v Carlisle Park 142 (Kasun Balasuriya 51, Hasintha Jayasuriya 45, Adam McMaster 4/44, Mathew Bright 3/30).

(Paynter), who don’t mind if I get hit for a few runs.

“That’s part and parcel of trying to bowl the way I do and how the leaders allow me to.

“If I get it right, I can get some turn and bounce and that probably makes me the bowler that I am and a bit different to others.

“I used to bowl a lot flatter and try to bowl dot balls, but with the backing of those blokes I’ve tried to give it more of a rip.

“It’s a lot more rewarding on the days when you bowl really well, but sometimes you can bowl 100 good balls, then one bad ball gets a wicket.

“I bowled a few bad balls that got wickets on the weekend.”

Williams has two premierships with the Lions, and he and Bree have two children, with Taj, seven, and Jai, three-and-a-half months, bringing a wonderful joy to life.

Williams believes a third premiership is well and truly within reach.

“I’d like to think so…with the calibre of players that we’ve got we have to be a chance,” he said.

“Dale (Tormey) and Smithy (Chris Smith) are elite players; Jack (Anning) has come on in leaps and bounds; Rob (Elston) is all class, and we’ve got Dom (Paynter) and Stu (Johnson) come in as batters, when we probably felt we were one or two short last year.

“We feel like we can make the runs now, but we just need to be there when finals come around.

“Tooradin and Koowee look the benchmarks again…but I think we’re thereabouts.”

Williams said he felt no extra responsibility

Cracking games of softball Round six of the Casey Softball Association produced some cracker games.

The Social Women’s competition saw Penguins White take on Cobras on Diamond One. Penguins took control early jumping to a 10-1 lead.

Cobras fought back well with an eight-run third innings but the Penguins ultimately held on for a thrilling 10-9 win, with Ros Cook taking three catches to go with two groundouts in a masterclass at short-stop.

Berwick Geronimo was too good for Chickasaw, winning 11-3 in a fun game, while consistency with the bat saw Cranbourne Comets ease past MVP 9-2.

30 STAR NEWS

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A 15-run innings for Cobras was the highlight of B Grade, as they ultimately ran away with a 21-13 win over Cranbourne Gold, while Kyla McGuire’s pitching helped Penguin Black to 7-4 win over MVP. In Open Men, Cobras men started strong to lead 10-3 after the second innings, ultimately beating MVP 12-9 in a tense final innings.

Strong pitching in Berwick Apache’s clash with Cobras Grey made for a low-scoring contest, but Josh Dallas’ triple and Ethan Chavasse’s double got Apache over the line.

On Saturday 25 November, Casey All Stars will host the Victoria Womens Titans team, in a warm up game before they head off to play in the Open Nationals at 7.30pm.

Thursday, 16 November, 2023

There was some great action in the Casey Softball Association on the weekend. 373492 Picture: SUPPLIED cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Flyers hose down the Fire

By Marcus Uhe A pair of round two wins has kick-started the Southside Flyers’ new WNBL season and vanquished demons of the 2022/23 campaign in the process.

Most significant was a thrilling 75-74 defeat of Townsville Fire in Queensland on Saturday night in a rematch of last season’s one-sided grand final series.

The Flyers trailed at every interval in the contest but clawed their way back into the game from an eight-point deficit at the beginning of the final term, thanks in large part to young star wing Nyadiew Puoch.

Puoch scored eight of Southside’s final 10 points in the come-from-behind win, including a crucial free throw to edge her side ahead with 10 seconds remaining, in what was her side’s first lead since the opening minutes of the contest.

With 3.36 remaining on the clock, Carley Ernst nailed a three-point shot to cut the lead to six, before Puoch took over down the stretch.

She made a layup with just under three minutes remaining as the lead fell to four and cleaned up her own miss with another layup a minute later, earning a foul in the process and nailing the resulting free throw to make it a one-point game.

Courtney Woods answered for the Fire with a three, to restore a four-point buffer, which was brought back to two points thanks to a pair of foul shots from Mercedes Russell.

A Puoch interception on the next Townsville possession was converted on the other end, tying the scores at 74 with just shy of a minute remaining.

A frantic final minute saw missed and blocked shots, timeouts and a jump ball, even-

tually resulting in Puoch heading to the free throw line once more.

She made the critical first to give her side the lead and missed the second, but the Fire was unable to make her pay on the other end, missing a mid-range jump shot with three seconds remaining that would have given them the lead.

Russell led the Flyers in scoring with 22 points on an efficient 64 per cent shooting and secured six rebounds in the win as five players scored in double figures.

Southside made the most of its opportunities all game, winning the second-chance points count 14-6 and points off turnovers battle 18-7.

Earlier in the week, a brief stopover in Canberra saw the Flyers notch their first win of the new campaign, downing the Capitals 104-79 on Wednesday night.

Southside extended its lead at every break in the contest, hammering its ascendency in the third term with a 28-15 period to grow the nine-point advantage to 22.

It was the Russell and Maddison Rocci show in the nation’s capital as both filled the stat sheet with substantial performances.

Russell is making her presence felt upon her return to the competition, registering a 20-point, 11-rebound double-double to go with four assists.

Rocci, meanwhile, did a bit of everything in her 35 minutes, scoring 28 points, grabbing seven rebounds and dishing seven assists.

Through the rounds the Flyers have been one of the best shooting teams in the competition, leading the league in three-point shooting percentage and a close second for overall field goal percentage.

Southside next takes to the court on Saturday night to face Adelaide.

Nyadiew Puoch dragged Southside back from a 10-point deficit during the final quarter against Townsville.

Picture: PICS BY TRE

Depth delivers as top teams struggle for Cranbourne CRANBOURNE BOWLS Cranbourne’s two top weekend pennant teams struggled this weekend and were beaten by their well-drilled opponents.

However, all was not lost with Cranbourne 3, 4 and 5 all recording wins.

Cranbourne 1, playing at home, took on the best of Beaumaris 1 players in Division 1, but in the end our side went down, beaten by the better team on the day, winning one rink, but losing three. Our best performed rink was skipped by Jammie Corney, with Matt Stevens, Karen Hickson and Joe Byrne winning 26-14 collecting our only points for the game.

Cranbourne 1 (74) was defeated by Beaumaris 1 (87). -13 shots and 2 points.

Cranbourne 2 travelled to the beachside suburb of Mordialloc to take on their top team, but despite trying hard, they didn’t come away with the chocolates.

All four rinks were close, but we only managed to win one and with the barest margin at that.

Best Cranbourne rink was skipped by Ian Barrenger, with Peter Colthup, Marijan Bobetic and Barry Graham winning 25-24.

Cranbourne 2 (70) was defeated by Mordialloc 1 (84) winning three rinks to one. - 14 shots and 2 points.

Cranbourne 3 travelled to Berwick for its match with Berwick 4. In a very good game, Cranbourne 3 won two rinks, drew one rink and lost one rink. Best rink of the day was skipped by Tony Collins, with Dermot McConville, Rob Scott, Kristi Hickson winning 22-8.

Cranbourne 3 (85) defeated Berwick 4 (68). + 17 shots and 15 points.

Cranbourne 4 hosted its opponents Sandringham 2.

In a very good game, there wasn’t much between the two sides, but the rinks for Cranbourne all came through, winning all rinks.

Best rink of the game was skipped by Steve Boyd with Gerry Dudink, Kath Dudink and Monica Peers winning 25-15.

Cranbourne 4 (89) defeated Sandringham 2 (57). + 32 shots and 18 points.

Cranbourne 5, also playing at home, took

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Bill Sherriff had a good week for Cranbourne, being part of winning team against Berwick on Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Saturday and against Narre Warren midweek. 372554

The future of Cranbourne bowls; Holly Stevens with her dad Matt at the Cranbourne Bowling Club. 373678

Best rink was skipped by Nick Arnold, with Bill Bradbury, Bill Sherriff and Vic Butera winning 25-13.

Cranbourne 1 (71) defeated Narre Warren 2 (52). + 19 shots and 16 points.

Cranbourne 2 travelled to Carrum and playing on matting with a difficult breeze to contend with, the three Cranbourne rinks played extremely well, but we didn’t win.

The best team was skipped by Harry VanSoest with Gerry Dudink, Kristi Hickson and Monica Peers winning 23-19.

The rink skipped by Chris Deal and his team had bowls in the head most ends, holding shot on 13 ends, but the Carrum skip was on a day out and he must have removed us on at least 10 of them.

Also, our team skipped by John Kent went down by seven shots against a skip who also got many shots out we were holding.

The Cranbourne players can all be very proud of how they played.

Cranbourne 2 (54) was defeated by Carrum 1 (70). - 16 shots and 2 points.

Cranbourne 3 hosted Dandenong RSL Rec on the synthetic green and the three teams played out of their skins and we had a most impressive win from our star side at the moment.

Best rink was skipped by Ron Fenton, with John Stanley, Olive Stanley and Davina Bobetic winning by 27 shots.

They had strong support from Tony Whalley’s team, winning by 19 shots, and lastly the team skipped by Jammie Corney won by 16 shots.

Cranbourne 3 (93) defeated Dandenong RSL Rec 1 (31). + 62 shots and 16 points.

Cranbourne 4 travelled to MCC at Hawthorn to take on the very strong MCC 6 side.

These teams are six-a-side and playing on synthetic our players struggled with the pace of the green and we’re overrun a little bit.

This team is basically new bowlers and they’ll learn from this. Well done.

Cranbourne 4 (21) was defeated by MCC6 (49). - 28 shots and 0 points.

Derek Maguire

on the second-placed Dandenong Club 6.

These teams are 12-a-side and at the end of the match, Cranbourne had won all three rinks.

The best of those was skipped by Steve Muhi, with Cate Sharpe, Allen Skurrie and Bruce Canavan winning 24-12.

It has to be stated at this time, we had a team of ladies who are all new bowlers with not a huge amount of experience.

At one stage, the girls were 11-1 down, but after the break, they came good and came back to win their rink by six shots.

Skipped by Helen Blake, her team of Jeannie Tomlin, Jo Alsop and Sarah Richardson should be congratulated on a job well done.

Cranbourne 5 (71) defeated Dandenong Club 6 (52). + 19 shots and 16 points.

MIDWEEK PENNANT Cranbourne 1, playing at home, took on our neighbour Narre Warren 2.

Winning all rinks, this will give the team the boost in confidence they need to now go on with it.

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STAR NEWS 31

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Thursday, 16 November, 2023

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