The South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) has called upon the Victorian Government to put a cap on land tax increases for the next five years.
SEMMA has labeled its alternative a “Measure Twice, Cut Once” approach, which would cap land tax increases and tie land tax rates to the usage and economic output of land, rather than sheer size and value.
Its president Peter Angelico argues this would leave Victorian manufacturing more robust and capable of competing on a global scale.
“We need to cap land tax for manufacturers now. Governments need to economically back manufacturers through smart policy if they truly support sovereign capability and growth,” Mr Angelico said.
The Victorian Government introduced a COVID Debt Repayment Plan in 2023-’24, which increased land tax rates on total taxable value (site value) of landholdings.
These changes are legislated to apply until at least 2033, in an effort to repay public debt accumulated during the heights of the Covid-19 outbreak.
SEMMA, however, says that due to a widespread increase in land valuations, the COVID Debt Repayment Plan has caused manufacturers’ tax bills to double or even triple.
SEMMA cited prohibitive tax costs on local manufacturing businesses which they claim are restricting growth and sending manufacturers into financial stress.
Previously, the organisation has labelled the rises in land tax rates ‘gouging’ and an ‘unjustified cash grab’, in an ongoing dispute with the Victorian Government.
Following a meeting last year with Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas, SEMMA chief executive officer Honi Walker said the organisation’s concerns were ‘basically ignored’.
The Victorian Government maintains its land tax policy shifts the tax burden away from small landowners.
“The value of land used to calculate land tax typically increases over time, and due to high demand for industrial land many owners have seen the value of their properties rise.
“Victoria’s land tax system is progressive and ensures that smaller property investors pay proportionally less than those with larger landholdings.”
The spokesperson said “manufacturing insolvencies are not unique to Victoria”.
“The insolvency rate in New South Wales was almost identical to Victoria’s.
“Over the two years to the end of 2024, employment in Victoria’s manufacturing industry grew over 10 per cent - from 256,000 to 283,000.
“According to the ABS, Victoria saw a net increase of 142 businesses in 2023-’24 at a time when 73 per cent of closures by manufacturing businesses did not employ people.”
The Government stated it had cut or abolished taxes 65 times - including concessions and exemptions on stamp duty for first home buyers and abolishing the upfront cost of stamp duty on commercial and industrial buildings, the spokesperson said.
Free Kinder: Enrol for 2025.
Free Kinder is available for three- and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,563 each year, per child.
Free Kinder is available for three- and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,563 each year, per child.
At kindergarten, your child will:
• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance
At kindergarten, your child will: and skills through play, music dance
• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment
• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment
• build skills and confidence before primary school.
• build skills and confidence before primary school.
Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/kinder
Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025. Visit
SEMMA president Peter Angelico.
Wood to hold La Trobe
By Corey Everitt
Incumbent Jason Wood will survive the Liberal Party’s nightmare election, but he will have to fight hard in three years, as La Trobe is no longer a safe seat.
With 98 percent of the vote counted, the AEC has Wood with an over 2 percent margin compared to Labor’s Jeff Springfield in the two-party preferred. Formerly holding a strong 8 percent margin in La Trobe, Jason Wood has suffered an unexpected five percent swing against him.
“I congratulate Jeff Springfield, I thought he ran a really good campaign and he is a hell of a nice guy for his many years on council,” Wood said on election night.
Depending on overall results, Wood could be the only remaining Liberal MP in Melbourne after voters overwhelmingly ditched other incumbent Liberals and ignored their renewed attempts to take seats in the inner city. Many have compared this election to Canada’s only a few days prior, where conservatives were beaten by a wave of sentiment against the US Trump Administration.
Wood concurred with this opinion and called Trump’s return to the White House a “wrecking ball.”
“When Trump came to power, we thought it would be of assistance to the Coalition, little did we know it would end actually being a wrecking ball,” he said.
“I’m not saying we ran a great campaign, we didn’t, but it really hurt.
“I don’t think we had a good campaign, we give Labor the credit, they had a good campaign na-
tionally and, I hate to say it, but so did the Prime Minister.”
He also pointed the blame at the Coalition’s return-to-office policy for the public service, which he referred to as “one of the dumbest policy announcements”. Though it was not intended to be, Wood said it became caught up in the notion of being unfair to working mothers.
“Working from home, was just one of the dumbest policy announcements ever, that just really hurt,” he said.
“I had phone calls straight away from colleagues, and even myself, from professional women saying, why would you want us to go back when you want kids and family-friendly environments to work from?”
There is still some counting to be done, however, Springfield is likely to have achieved the biggest challenge against Wood since the 2016 election,
where his margin was brought down to less than 2 percent by Labor’s Simon Curtis. Springfield, who was nominated right at the start of the campaign and had little resources to work with, said it was a “David vs Goliath battle”.
“I just love the support I have been shown from the community, and all the people I have spoken to in La Trobe over the last weeks, I hear them calling for a change,” he said.
“I hope this sets a benchmark for Liberal opposition parties in the future, to not be so negative and not try to work against the people of Australia.
“It has been a David vs Goliath battle, every day you have seen me out there at the pre-polling booth.
“I would love to see us go toe-to-toe again in a fair contest.”
Booth by booth results show more concerning trends for Wood. In Berwick, typically Liberal-
leaning and where Wood bases his office, he suffered 10-plus percent swings against him across all four of its booths in the two-party preferred. It was the Akoonah Park booth, which is now in the seat of Bruce, where he only suffered a five percent swing. In Emerald, Wood saw a 6 percent drop in his primary vote. Emerald local Springfield received a 9 percent boost in his primary. Though the Greens’ performance has been patchy amid the wave toward Labor, La Trobe candidate Jamie Longmuir looks set to increase the vote for the progressive side with an admirable 13 percent primary vote - a swing of more than 2 percent.
Longmuir, too ran a short campaign, but was glad to see their efforts pay off in the outer Melbourne seat.
“Good to see it didn’t go to waste, we increased our vote and got our Senator re-elected,” he said.
“It’s definitely a great result overall, we want to see more progressive votes in La Trobe.
“Some of their (Liberal) policies, they had a lot of people who wanted to vote liberal, but I think just didn’t agree on policies like nuclear or immigration.”
One Nation’s Leonardo Panetta also saw a swing of over 2 percent for the other side of politics, jumping to a seven percent primary vote.
Winning his seat while his party lost for a second time, Wood said the biggest loss is that his many local commitments cannot come to fruition. He pledged funds toward many local sporting and recreation facilities including Riding for the Disabled Pakenham, Bunyip Recreation Reserve and Nar Nar Goon Netball Club.
Election result “far worse” than MP expected
By Corey Everitt
The autopsy has begun on the Liberal Party’s campaign that saw their leader ousted from Parliament; the Trump Presidency and return-to-office policy are among the issues local MP Jason Wood has raised in this result that was “far worse” than he expected.
The Liberal Party will begin the process of choosing a new leader after Peter Dutton lost his seat of Dickson in what has been hailed as the worst election in the Liberal Party’s history.
La Trobe MP Jason Wood retained his seat and is now one of the most senior members of his dwindled party room, with 20 years in office to be achieved this term. On election night, Wood said Trump’s ascendancy to the White House was originally hoped to boost the Coalition’s chances, but after the first 100 days of his administration, the 47th
President became a “wrecking ball” for conservative parties across the world. He described the policy of return-to-office for public service workers as one of the “dumbest policy announcements”, after it be-
came interpreted as targeting working mothers.
On Monday 5 May, he appeared on ABC Melbourne and said the results were “much worse” than he expected. He was questioned about other policies and said the bid to introduce nuclear power was dropped suddenly in the campaign.
“We pushed it out pretty hard, we did surveys and people thought yep it’s a good idea, but all of a sudden we dropped it,” he said.
“What do the public think? If you drop the policy, then it’s a bad policy.”
The last week of the campaign was marked by Dutton raising the question of Welcome to Country ceremonies and their prevalence across various events, after its inclusion in the 2025 Melbourne Dawn Service was heckled.
Wood said Labor ran a good campaign and “exploited” these topics, but also admitted the Liberals
should consider their words.
“You can find that your base has a very strong view on these and then your voters haven’t, so it’s trying to get that balance right.”
“I think we do have to moderate and tone down our language a bit in the future and I think that is what the voters want us to do to.”
The Liberal Party will soon enter the party room to decided a new leader with Acting Leader Sussan Ley, Wannon MP Dan Tehan and Hume MP Angus Taylor as favourites.
Though some outgoing Liberal MPs have lashed out at certain MPs and backed others for leader, Jason Wood said he will begin discussions with his colleagues to inform his choice.
“Given that there are still seats in play and yet to be decided, we will not hold a ballot until these outcomes are clear.”
Candidate boards. (File: 473248)
Jason Wood. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel and its five new underground stations, with three stations now complete. Work is continuing on two stations, and we’re testing trains through the tunnel to make sure they operate smoothly and safely.
While we work, disruptions could affect your travel
Train disruptions:
Cranbourne and Pakenham lines 10 to 11 May 17 to 18 May 24 to 25 May
Road disruptions: Road closed
Passengers change at Caulfield Station for Frankston Line trains to and from the city
Progress Street, Dandenong South From 6 MayClosed south of the level crossing Check before you travel
Anzac Station
Labor holds on to Holt
By Violet Li
Labor’s Cassandra Fernando has won her second term as the MP for Holt.
She is appearing on track to harvest a higher share of the primary votes than in her last election in 2022.
At the time of the writing, 75 per cent of the votes have been counted, and Fernando has secured about 45.6 per cent of the primary votes, followed by Liberal’s Annette Samuel (25.3 per cent), Greens’ Payal Tiwari (11.2 per cent), One Nation’s Trevor Hammond (8.5 per cent), Family First’s Shane Foreman (5 per cent), and Legalise Cannabis’s Riley Aickin (4.5 per cent).
Fernando is projected to win about 64.2 per cent of the votes under the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC)’s two-candidate-preferred model, against Samuel’s 35.8 per cent - doubling her 2022 margin with a swing of 7.1 per cent.
In the previous election, among eight candidates, Fernando gained 40.86 per cent of the primary votes.
Liberal has suffered a 5.6 per cent swing for one of the bluest booths in Holt: Pearcedale.
Among the 1517 formal votes, Samuel secured 50.2 per cent of them after preferences, against Fernando’s 49.8 per cent.
In the 2022 Election, the previous Liberal candidate gained 56 per cent of the after-preference votes.
Fernando celebrated the victory with her team on the election night, with the room erupting in cheers and applause.
Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards and Bass MP Jordan Crugnale were also present to witness the victory.
Emotions were at their highest among the crowd when the television projected that the Opposition Leader Peter Dutton would lose his own seat.
Fernando addressed the crowd with excitement and tears and thanked her team members.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to stand before you as the re-elected member for Holt,” she said.
“This is a community where I went to school, where I got my first job, I found my purpose, and standing up for people. Representing this community in our Federal Parliament has been the privilege of my entire life.
“It was a campaign built on fairness, equality, and more importantly, compassion.
“And the fundamental belief that no matter where you come from, what you look like, we all deserve a fair go.”
Talking with Star News, Fernando said she felt surreal, very blessed, and honoured to be able to represent the community for one more term.
She said her amazing team helped her navigate her pregnancy during the whole campaign.
“We were organised. We were staunch in what we wanted to do and to do it in a way that wouldn’t cause me any health issues, and they always made sure that my health came first.”
For Fernando, this election campaign was different from her last one as she was defending everything she had done in the last three years.
Speaking of her plan for the following three years, she said she would keep working hard to make sure that the community gets the infrastructure that they need.
“That’s one of my big priorities: infrastructure,” she said.
“Whether we get mobile reception towers, whether it be better road infrastructure, and also to ease the cost of living for them by making sure that every person in my community can see a GP for free, 20 per cent off HECS debt, saving an average student of $5,300, and also three days of free childcare.”
Fernando commended her Liberal opponent, saying they had run a good campaign.
“I wish them the very best,” she said.
Samuel conceded the loss on her Facebook and thanked her family, volunteers, supporters, and voters.
“This election didn’t go the way we hoped. The result is clear, and while it’s a tough pill to swallow, I accept it with humil-
ity and grace,” she said. “But what’s even clearer to me is this: I have never been prouder to stand alongside the incredible people who believed in this campaign, who believed in me, and who be-
lieved that our community deserved to be heard, respected, and better represented...
“Yes, we lost this time. But the love I have for Holt—for our streets, our schools, our small businesses, our incredible diversity—
it hasn’t faded. It’s only grown
I will continue to be here, working alongside you, because public service doesn’t begin or end with an election.”
stronger.
Holt MP Cassandra Fernando celebrates with supporters on election night. (Rob Carew: 475287)
Young Labor volunteers were in extreme excitement at the celebration party. (Rob Carew: 475287)
Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards was with Labor’s campaign volunteers. (Rob Carew: 475287)
WHAT’S ON
Artemis Muñoz
Artemis: Utter Mess welcomes you to join Artemis Muñoz as they unpack their journey to self-acceptance live on stage! This show is for anyone who has ever wondered where they belong or been confused about living in a world that takes issue with words of identity and community but is keen to put us in the wrong boxes, nonetheless. The event will be held at the Cardinia Cultural Centre on Saturday, 17 May, from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. Booking is required: https://cardinia.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/140274
Pakenham Library Garden club
Join a monthly garden club for kids, families and everyone! This monthly club is a great opportunity to learn and grow through gardening and garden based activities. We will spend time in the Discovery garden, participate in gardening projects, and arts & crafts. A great way to encourage a love of nature. The Pakenham Library Garden Club will meet at 4:00pm on Thursday, 8 May. Festival of Hats, Scarves and Rugs The festival, run by the Bunyip District Uniting Church, will take place on Saturday, 24 May, from 9:00am to 3:00pm at the Garfield Uniting Church Hall.
Wurundjeri Land, Worrell Reserve, Emerald
Come along for a free community event in celebration of National Reconciliation Week. Enjoy a Welcome to Country, smoking ceremony and performance by Djirri Djirri Dancers, followed by opening of art exhibition, family friendly activities and afternoon tea. The event will take place at Worrell Reserve in Emerald on Tuesday, 27 May, from 1:00pm to 2:30pm.
Cardinia Culture Centre Ampitheatre, Pakenham
Come along for a free community event in celebration of National Reconciliation Week with Welcome to Country & smoking ceremony by traditional custodians and performance by Djarlo Dance group, followed with family friendly activities and afternoon tea. The event will be held at the Cardinia Culture Centre Amphitheatre in Pakenham on Thursday, 29 May, from 12:30pm to 2:00pm. For more information, call Cardinia Shire Council on 1300 787 624 or email mail@cardinia.vic.gov. au Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow 2025
Australia’s most iconic comedy tour is hitting the road for a huge 27th year! Bringing together the brightest stars from the 2025 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, we’re delivering top-tier humour straight to your town! Featuring a dynamic line-up of comedy legends and fresh faces, this year’s Roadshow promises nation-wide happiness. So, grab your friends, lock in your tickets and prepare for a much-needed dose of laughter as the International Comedy Festival Roadshow rolls into Cardinia Cultural Centre on May 14 at 8pm. Booking is required via https://cardinia.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/140683
Embracing AI: Small Steps, Big Impact for Your Business
Join us for an insightful business breakfast where we’ll explore the transformative power of AI. Discover how AI can positively impact your business through real-world examples and practical advice from futurist and author Steve Sammartino. Learn how to take courageous, small steps in adopting new technologies that complement and enhance your existing business practices. Let’s unlock the potential of AI together! The event is held at Cardinia Cultural Centre on Wednesday 14 May 2025, 6:45 AM - 9:00 AM.
Compost Giveback Program
Cardinia Shire households can reap the rewards of having a food and garden waste kerbside bin
CHURCH
with the Compost Giveaway. In partnership with the Cardinia Environment Coalition, Cardinia Shire Council is giving two 25L bags of compost to households using a Council food and garden waste (lime green lidded) kerbside bin. To participate, households will need to register. Registered households can collect their compost from the CEC Nursery Coalition Nursery at Deep Creek Reserve in Pakenham on Fridays 9am-12pm (midday) or the last Saturday of each month 9am12pm (midday). The Compost Giveaway is open now until Saturday 28 June or while stocks last.
Rennie Pearson: Traditional Celtic Music – Live in Tonimbuk
Rennie Pearson, one of Australasia’s leading Celtic musicians, is bringing his show of traditional tunes, songs and storytelling from Ireland, Scotland and Maritime Canada to Tonimbuk Hall on Saturday, May 17 at 7.30pm. With the wooden flute, Irish whistles, guitar, bodhrán, fiddle and voice, Rennie creates a show that’s both intimate and exhilarating—balancing high-energy jigs and reels with heart-stirring slow airs and engaging storytelling. Each performance is a musical journey that offers a chance to connect with Celtic culture through music that lifts the spirit and stirs the soul. Don’t miss this special performance from a master of Celtic music on his Victoria tour this May. Tickets available at www.renniepearsonmusic.com
Garfield Exercise Group
As part of the Bunyip Friendship Hub, they meet at the Garfield Football Club rooms on Tuesdays at 10am.
Garfield Sewing Club
Come along with your sewing machine or use one of ours and join a group of sewers creating clothes, quilts, crafts, repairing and upcycling. All skill levels welcome but a gold coin donation. This event is held every Tuesday during the school term at Garfield Scout Hall.
Food Relief with Vegetables and Fruit
Available every second Wednesday at 2pm at MoyYan Neighbourhood House in Garfield.
Free meditation meetups
Meditation is a simple yet powerful tool that helps people regain clarity, improve emotional well-being, and enhance focus. Studies have shown that regular meditation can reduce stress, improve logical thinking, and promote overall mental health.
The Heartfulness Institute is running free meditation sessions in Berwick on Sundays.
The sessions are free. They will be held from 8.45am on Sunday at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House & Community Centre, 21A Bemersyde Dr, Berwick.
Pakenham Arthritis Self-Help Group
Are you living with arthritis and looking for a supportive community?
Join the Pakenham Arthritis Self-Help Group (PASH) and discover the benefits of water and chair aerobics.
The group offers a safe and welcoming space to connect with others who understand your challenges.
Together the group learns strategies to manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.
Warm water exercises are held at Cardinia Life from 8:15 am to 9:15 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays plus afternoon sessions at 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm on Tuesday and Friday afternoons.
Chair exercises are held at the Pakenham Hall in the Supper Room and run from 10:30 am to 11:15 am on Mondays and Thursdays.
For additional information contact bernadette.lilley56@gmail or Mobile at 0411 098 519 Cranbourne Senior Citizens Not a member? Doesn’t matter, come along and join the fun.
Weekly activities include line dancing from 10am to noon on Mondays, new vogue and old time dancing from 1pm to 3.30pm on Tuesdays, carpet bowls from 11.30am to 2.30pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays and bingo from 11am to 2pm on Thursdays.
For all enquiries or bookings, contact Marilyn on 0432 107 590.
Line dancing
The Berwick Senior Citizens Centre is hosting line dancing sessions from 10am to noon every Tuesday at 112 High Street in Berwick. First session is free, with a small fee for future classes.
Morning tea or coffee included. Inner Wheel Club of Berwick
The Inner Wheel Club (IW) Berwick is a ladies international friendship club which raises funds to support local charities and other worthwhile causes.
They have a dinner meeting on the first Monday of the month and enjoy a range of activities including guest speakers, morning teas, book club and craft afternoons.
For more information, visit their Facebook page or contact iiw.au.berwick@gmail.com
Berwick Springs VIEW Club
Affiliated with The Smith Family, the Berwick Springs VIEW Club is a not-for-profit organisation, with the aim to fundraise to support Learning for Life students.
The club currently supports 10 students of varying ages with their education expenses.
The club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Berwick Springs Hotel function room from 11.15am, where members enjoy a lunch and then host a guest speaker.
Throughout the year, the club has a couple of special fundraisers, as well as casual morning tea and lunch for interested ladies.
The club is always looking for new members in all age groups.
For more information, contact Shirley on 0438 191 759 or email berwicksprings.viewclub@ gmail.com
Probus Club of Pakenham East
The Probus Club of Pakenham East is encouraging new members to join the Club.
Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cardinia Club, 71 Racecourse Road Pakenham. Meeting commences at 10:30am
A short meeting is followed by morning tea and the opportunity to get to know members prior to the introduction of the guest speaker.
Various activities are held throughout the month For more information, please contact President Pamela on 0418584913 or contact Secretary Dorothy on probuspakenhameast@gmail.com
U3A Casey
Did you know that U3A Casey now has 471 members and operates out of multiple venues across the Casey area?
It offers 65 different classes, ranging from exercise/movement/dance groups to literature, crafts,
music, discussion groups and more.
Membership from July to December is $30 with no further costs.
If you want to keep both your mind and body active after retirement, then visit u3acasey.org.au
Yoga and meditation
Run by Heartfulness Yoga and Meditation, the sessions are conducted in a community environment to promote wellness.
Heartfulness is a simple and subtle practice of meditation which aims to connect all participants with the light and love in their hearts.
All are welcome to come and experience yoga and meditation on Sundays at Bunjil Place starting from 8.30am.
No previous experience is required. Bring your own yoga mat. Gold coin donation welcome.
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club
Are you new newly retired, or new to the area, or just wanting to enjoy your freedom as a senior or expand your social life?
Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club can offer you stimulating activities and friendship.
The club hosts weekly social activities with dance to low-key in-line dancing if you want to tap your feet, great music, a chat, then afternoon tea. Day, short and long trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.
Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.
For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.
Cardinia Diabetic Awareness Group
The group meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Pakenham Uniting Church meeting room at 10am.
The group would love to see people who have diabetes or live with someone who has diabetes attend or join.
The meeting consists of a short meeting and then a guest speaker dealing with diabetes. For more information, contact Lyn on 0149 116 972 or lestep12@people.net.au
BADFolk Club
Berwick and District Folk Club has been meeting at the Old Cheese Factory in Berwick for the past 22 years.
The club meets on the third Friday of each month and every month features a different genre of music.
The club also welcomes spot acts. Doors now open from 6.30pm and the music runs from 7pm to 10pm, no bookings required, entry $15.
The kitchen sells sweet and savoury snack food and a variety of drinks – tea, coffee, wine, beer, soft drinks.
For more information, visit badfolkclub.org or contact Edward on 0418 535 264.
Scrabble Club
Berwick Activities Club is hosting a Scrabble Club every Friday from 1pm to 3.30pm. It will be both competitive and social on a one-to-one basis. Come along to learn how to play or improve your game.
Word lists and more will be available to increase your skills.
Contact David on 0433 566 456.
Uniting Church Pakenham
“Our vision as a Christian community is to honour each individual’s experience of God, while sharing the love of Jesus in a positive, safe and inclusive environment.”
Sunday’s communion service was conducted by Rev. Neil Peters and the theme was “called to care”.
Neil asked the congregation about fishing and some acknowledged that they do. He said he had fished 3 times not catching anything edible. Jesus and the disciples often fished together. Just like us sharing a picnic on the beach he also did that
with his friends. Following our journey through Easter Jesus again appeared to the disciples. It is an encouragement in our faith with Peter and the disciples fishing – they fall back on something which is familiar. We do the same reverting to something which we know as we like the ways we know. Jesus did tell the disciples to change where they were fishing and they then caught abundant fish for all to share.
In church we are all called to play our part. Faithful discipleship is a risk. As God’s people we
are called to share God’s grace. We can all care. Things to remember:
· Homework Hub Tuesday 6th May 3.30 –5.30pm
· Playgroup Wednesday 7th May 9.30 11.00am
· Friendship Group 7th May 1.30pm
· Beehive Craft Tuesday 13th May 1.30pm
· Church Council is Thursday May 15th 7.30pm
· Pakenham Patchworkers and Quilters fabric and craft sale Sunday 25th May RSL Hall 10.00 am – 3.00pm
· Elders Gathering Friday 6th June 1.30pm
Please ensure that the doors are locked when you leave the building and the heating/cooling and lights are off.
Please continue to contribute to the Lazarus Food Relief which is being run by the COPTIC church who are providing hampers for the community which they distribute each Saturday at 2.00pm. A box is in the foyer for donations. Psalm 30 V1 “I will extol you O Lord, for you have drawn me up.”
Artemis. (Supplied)
Plan now for new airport
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Governments have been urged to start planning for the long-mooted future South East Airport.
Regional advocacy group Greater South East Melbourne (GSEM) called for $5 million in federal funds to urgently start early planning works for a South East airport such as land preservation and identifying future road corridors.
Lessons can be learnt from the long, fraught debates over a rail link to Melbourne Airport, GSEM argues.
“We need to get on with this planning today so we can build this vital airport tomorrow,” GSEM independent chair Simon McKeon said.
“We don’t want to be here in 2050 saying ‘We wish we’d done this years ago’.”
GSEM has argued the airport is required for the South East’s booming population and industries, who suffer long travel times to Tullamarine and Avalon airports.
An identified potential site is Caldermede – which used to host a wartime airstrip and is close to the South Gippsland rail corridor.
Strong strategic planning had ensured Melbourne Airport remains curfew free, despite being close to urban areas, GSEM argues.
But a lack of planning for a rail link had resulted in decades of debate, with possible corridors filled up with houses and development.
“We need to learn the mistakes of not doing airport rail sooner,” GSEM spokesperson and Cardinia Shire mayor Jack Kowarzik said.
“We need to do better in the South-East.
“We must take a proactive approach to ensure the necessary planning and policy settings are in place to protect the feasibility of this project into the future.”
Only days out from the 3 May election, major political parties appear to have finalised their funding commitments.
“In the short to medium term the federal Government’s priority is funding the Melbourne Airport Rail Link but I’d certainly support State and local governments undertaking the land use planning work to preserve the planning options for the future.”
La Trobe Liberal MP Jason Wood, who has
Bruce Labor MP Julian Hill said a South East airport would be a “great development for so many people who struggle with the increasingly frustrating journey to Melbourne Airport”.
previously voiced support for a South East airport, was also contacted for comment.
GSEM - an alliance of eight councils, as well as employers and community groups in the South East - recently unveiled a federal-election wishlist, including planning for the airport. It also called for funding for local projects such as extending Thompsons Road, trialling a government-loan scheme to fully electrify homes and $20 million for public, community and social housing.
Other pitches included $4 million to expand Young Mothers Transition Program to help reconnect young mums with work or study, $10 million to accelerate the transition to a local net-zero-emissions economy and $1.4 billion for trackless rapid transport between Caulfield-Rowville.
GSEM independent chair Simon McKeon says planning needs to start for a future South East airport. (Gary Sissons: 446692)
Lions deluxe under lights
By Justin Schwarze
It was the Luke Ryan show under bright lights at Toomuc Reserve on Saturday evening with Pakenham routing Belgrave in Outer East Division 1.
Ryan was the best on ground, logging 41 disposals and six goals from the midfield in a virtuoso performance.
However, it didn’t seem like it was going to be all smooth sailing in the first quarter when the Magpies hit the enemy turf running.
The visitors bounced off halfback and went through the corridor to Nathan Power, who was illegally pushed out of the contest and awarded a free kick.
Power’s set shot sailed through the big sticks to give Belgrave the perfect start.
The Lions were left shell shocked when Nathan Dawson marked and slotted a quick second from the pocket.
The onslaught didn’t stop there; the Magpies won another centre clearance and sent the ball back inside 50 and Dawson broke free to mark again.
He missed this time, but the kick-in was intercepted and blasted straight back inside a dangerous area for Pakenham.
This time, Kyle Nunn juggled a contested grab in a prime spot and the Lions defenders looked at each other in disbelief.
Nunn kicked truly and boosted Belgrave to a 19-0 scoreboard advantage.
Pakenham was able to go forward off the next centre bounce, but the visitors rebounded out of the pocket and transitioned the footy up the line via a connected kicking chain.
The quick ball movement allowed Nunn to get out the back and run in for his second goal in a matter of minutes, leaving the Lions in complete disarray.
A complete shock to the system must’ve knocked Pakenham awake, because the response was nothing short of emphatic.
It started with Sam Cachia booting the Lions’ first, followed by majors from Zak De Bono, Josh Haggar, Mason Hall and Ben Green.
After conceding the first four, Pakenham piled on five unanswered goals to somehow lead at the first change, 5.1(31) to 4.4(28).
The streak of majors continued into the second term, with Green nailing back-to-back goals to extend the margin.
De Bono then roved a marking pack, collecting the footy and swiftly throwing it onto his boot to snap it home for his second of the night.
Following that, Bailey Stiles found space to run and mark, going back to kick the Lions’ ninth consecutive goal.
At the main break, Pakenham led 9.7(61) to 4.5(29).
Out of halftime, the Lions quickly put the game to bed by putting through eight majors to one in the third.
Ryan booted four of his six in the period, charging through the midfield and hitting the scoreboard in different ways.
His first was a well-placed set shot from 35 metres, which was followed by De Bono’s third major.
At the other end, the run of 11 straight Pakenham goals finally ended when Power kicked truly for goal.
After Stiles booted his second, Ryan picked up the ball when it was deflected from a pack, turned and bent through a snap to tip the margin over 50 points.
He got his third when his Belgrave defender dropped a mark right into his hands, giving him time and space to slot yet another snap around the body.
The Lions did not look back, riding the goalkicking frenzy to claim a 25.14 (164) to 7.8 (50) win in the night game.
“I was really impressed with how the boys played, it was certainly our best four-quarter effort that we’ve had all year,” senior coach Justin Stanton said.
“After that first 10 minutes, we started to take our opportunities going forward and we looked really impressive.
“It was evident late in the first quarter if we could win the midfield battle; they were going to have difficulty being able to contain all of our forwards.
“The way we used the football under lights in the cold weather was really impressive.
“Our kicking skills and our marking skills were the best I’ve seen from a local side in those types of conditions.
“I’m happy the guys are playing the way we’ve spoken about and trained.
“They’ve embraced the style of game we’ve tried to play and the execution is getting better and better each week, that’s what I’m most proud of.
“We’re not relying on one or two individuals, it’s certainly a team-first mentality and everyone’s contributing in their own way each week.
“The results are terrific obviously, but I’m more impressed by the fact they’re listening to instructions, they’re working hard to keep improving their own game individually and they train hard.”
Ryan’s on-field production was certainly noteworthy, especially with the high standard he is playing at through the club’s first four games.
The midfield’s ability to go forward and apply pressure was significant to Stanton.
“The main standout was the performance of Luke Ryan,” Stanton said.
“He was outstanding again and kicking six goals from the midfield was an enormous effort.
“His season so far has been outstanding and we couldn’t be happier with him and what he’s brought to the team.
“We don’t rely on just one goalkicker, so we had nine individual goalkickers which was really pleasing.
“The forwards finished off the work, but our midfield was also able to get on the scoreboard.
“We also wanted to win the ground balls, be clean with our possessions and finish the work up forward.
“We felt if we kept that up, the second half would be ours, and it certainly played out like that.
“To have 13 goals from the midfield, it was by far our best performance of the year which was great.”
Stiles had two goals and 21 disposals, while
Tanner Stanton had the ball on a string with 35 possessions and two goals.
Green finished with four for the evening while getting his hands on the footy and disposing of it 24 times.
Pakenham now enters the bye with a chance to rejuvenate and retool, but the first part of season 2025 has a green tick next to it according to Stanton.
“We’ve broken the season down into little blocks, and that was the first block we were able to tick off in the first four games,” he said.
“We’re going to reload and look at that next block; we’re going to face a couple of those teams around us on the ladder so they’ll be big challenges.”
Over at Yarra Glen Recreation Reserve, Josh Hawkins put the league on notice by booting a massive haul of 14 goals against Yarra Junction.
The bag put the River Pigs on track to grab a 25.19(169) to 8.2(50) win.
Seville managed to just hold off Warburton Millgrove in an entertaining clash of contenders.
At home, Justin Myers’ performance of 19 disposals and nine tackles was able to overcome Tom Barr with 22 touches and two goals, as the Blues got the job done by a score of 11.8 (74) to 9.12 (66).
Alexandra bounced back from last week, comfortably handling business against Powelltown on the road 10.9 (69) to 17.15 (117).
Josh Edwards booted five goals for the Rebels and Mitch Parker managed four majors in support.
Yea had the bye.
Pakenham punish Pies as Lions lay down impressive marker
By Justin Schwarze
Pakenham’s defence continues to be a brick wall this season as the Lions locked up Belgrave in the Outer East Netball Division 1 A Grade competition.
Pakenham only allowed 21 goals, bringing its season tally to just 82 goals against after four games.
The Lions used the strong defensive stand to rally and transition the ball into scoring opportunities, securing the 83-21 victory at home.
Emerging star Charlotte Hudolin was sensational for the hosts, converting 51 goals and applying pressure offensively.
The defensive style has long been Pakenham’s identity and it’s not news that Caitlin Cooke is difficult to score against.
Eliza Molino was also tremendous for the Lions, rounding out a deep and complete performance heading into the bye.
Seville moved to 4-0 after coming out on top in an absolute arm-wrestle against Warburton Millgrove.
The Burras led 27-28 at halftime before the
Blues won the third and took a 39-36 advantage into the final intermission.
Seville was able to use its familiarity with its home court to squeeze out a 51-46 result.
Skipper Cleo Minney was fantastic both in her performance but also in her leadership.
After the game was deadlocked at the main break, Yarra Glen’s big second half pushed it past Yarra Junction.
The River Pigs bounced off the play of Lara Wandin-Collins, Elise Dobson and Jasmine Evans to outscore the Eagles 29-18 in the second half and clinch a 55-44 win at home.
Alexandra’s firepower led by Teagan Halligan, Ellie Hedger and Ashleigh Peers was too much for Powelltown to overcome.
The Rebels piled on more goals than the Towners in every term, finishing the game as 2867 away victors. In Premier Division A Grade, Emerald was handed its first defeat of 2025 in its visit to Wandin.
Brodie Smith, Jackie Cutting and Madison Taylor got cooking for the Bombers, but excellent play from Maddi Wallmeyer ensured the Bulldogs
scraped out the 47-43 result.
Gembrook Cockatoo is still searching for its first scalp of the season after being dealt with at home by Olinda Ferny Creek.
Brylee O’Neil was at her usual brilliant best, while Rachel Williams and Mary Miles were standouts for the Brookers.
The Bloods mounted an impressive second half, getting the better of the hosts by outscoring them 15-25 to make sure of it.
The final scoreline read Olinda Ferny Creek
with a 30-47 triumph.
ROC was no match for a competitive Mount Evelyn side, with failing to fire in the second quarter proving to be costly for the Kangaroos.
The Rovers grabbed the match by the throat in the second, outscoring ROC 4-16 on enemy territory.
Jade McGuire, Isabella O’Shanassy and Leah Mibus put in good performances but Mount Evelyn bagged the four points with a 25-62 win.
Monbulk was boosted by a big second term to get over Upwey Tecoma with the Hawks scoring 19 goals to the Tigers’ 10 in that frame.
Big output from Paige Whitworth, Nicole Macdowell and Stephanie Ferguson steered Monbulk on the road to a 55-64 victory.
Woori Yallock got its second win for the year by narrowly taking down Healesville at Don Road Sporting Complex 39-43.
The Tigers led at every break, spearheaded by Amber Thorn and Chelsea Smith.
Woori Yallock’s four-goal quarter-time lead proved to be crucial, as the clubs scored the same amount for the remainder of the game, showcasing the back-and-forth nature of the contest.
Pakenham was able to grab its opportunities after a rocky start against Belgrave. (Gary Sissons: 475438)
Eliza Molino played a massive part in Pakenham’s victory against Belgrave. (Rob Carew: 430147)
Warriors shoot down Jets
By Justin Schwarze
The versatility and determination of the Pakenham Warriors Youth Men has been the story of its season with three wins on the trot after some tight losses.
The squad has gone through multiple injuries and interruptions, with a number of key players missing games at different points of the season.
And even in a new competition landscape, the Warriors are learning through every result, but the most impressive part is the resilience they’ve shown as the campaign nears the halfway mark.
In its most recent win, Pakenham grinded out a strong 78-84 victory against Sunbury at Boardman Stadium.
The Jets had their fingerprints all over the first half, leading at the first break and extending the margin to 10 points midway through the second.
However, Linden Moon got some increased run in the game and caught fire, swinging the final portion of the half in favour of the Warriors.
He knocked down a pair of triples and a pair of free throws to help Pakenham jump back in front at the main break 37-42.
“Linden had eight points in a three minute span to end the first half which gave us the lead at halftime, so it’s good to see a development player come in and play those big moments and have a real impact in short minutes,” head coach Braden Venning said.
In the second half, the Warriors operated effectively offensively but Sunbury withstood their runs and refused to go away.
Despite never trailing in the quarter, Pakenham got a handy boost when the hosts were surging from Jye Horne, who drilled a three right before the end of the term to push the lead back to six.
In the fourth, Horne found space at the rim to finish for a layup, widening the difference to 10, but once again the Jets would not back down.
Angus Palmer converted from downtown before a Jake Meagher turnover led to another deep ball, this time from Zak Martinez.
Following two Horne made free throws, Martinez splashed another three and then a David Angove layup sliced the margin to just one and forced a timeout from Venning.
The break allowed the Warriors to regroup, immediately going on a 7-0 scoring run in response.
But just like over the course of the second half, Sunbury remained in the rearview mirror.
Angove hit a three to trim it back to two with under two minutes to play, before Pakenham knocked down four free throws to seal the game.
The damage was dealt on the defensive end for the Warriors, forcing 21 Jets turnovers and holding them to 39 percent shooting.
“It’s really pleasing to see,” Venning said of his side’s defence.
“As we’ve said, we pride ourselves on our defence, the ability to disrupt and create turnovers make it so much easier on the offensive end.
“Especially on a night where we only shot 5/17 from deep, so it’s less attempts than we’re used to and shooting at a lower clip than we’re used to.
“Credit to Sunbury, every time we’d stretch it out to 10 points, they’d bring it back to four points, so it was always seesawing but it was really good to see whoever I put out there step up
in big moments.
“We can hang our hat on our defence, creating stops and extra possessions for ourselves.”
Without star Kaleb Beveridge, Pakenham dug deep to claw out the result against a competitive Sunbury lineup.
In the absence of Beveridge and reliable big Riley Pollard, Mitch Zeunert stood up again and continues his very impressive form while being a member of Venning’s starting unit.
Zeunert had 12 points, five rebounds and four blocks, anchoring the elite defensive structure that the Warriors have fallen back on all season.
“Mitch has been steadily developing for the last two years within the program,” Venning said of Zeunert.
“With Riley going over to America for four weeks, the opportunity arose for him and credit to him, he’s taken the opportunity with both hands and made the most of it.
“He’s playing within himself, working hard on defence and he’s blocking a lot of shots.
“He has the length, he can beat his man off the dribble or he can shoot his shot and he can attack the glass, so we’re really pleased with him and stoked for him.
“Without Kaleb and Riley, it’s really good to see guys step up into the opportunity and make the most of it.”
Aaron Small took on the role of captain with immense pride, leading the Warriors with 17 points and seven rebounds on 54 percent shooting.
The season has been full of ups and downs, with Pakenham splitting its first nine games into three blocks.
It won its first three games resoundingly before going on a three game skid.
Since then, it has rebounded wonderfully to claim three consecutive scalps.
Even in defeat, there have been incredible learning opportunities, with the losses being single-digit margins to first-placed McKinnon and second-placed Ringwood.
“The big promising sign is we’ve been up in all those games, we know we’re not far off,” Venning admitted.
“It hasn’t sapped any energy or confidence out of the boys because it’s a 22 game season.
“To see us steadily climb the ladder again is really good, we’re back into fourth and in a pretty good place coming up to the midpoint of the season.
“Going up a division, it’s been a fantastic challenge and it’s something the boys are really up for.
“In this grade, good teams punish your lapses very quickly.
“If you have key turnovers or lapses at the wrong times, it’s immediately punished, which in Youth 2 we could sometimes get away with.
“The good teams punish you immediately and can turn a four point lead into a six point deficit in no time at all, which is good.
“This is why we wanted to go up and play at a higher level, this is why we wanted to keep pushing and keep getting better because you get better playing against good teams.”
This brings the Warriors into their next clash, a blockbuster meeting with third-placed Bulleen on Sunday at Cardinia Life.
The Warriors have the chance to leapfrog the Boomers in the table with a victory and prove to
the competition they can take down the contenders.
“It’s all about defensive intensity,” Venning mentioned as his key to the game.
“We’ve got to make sure we lock in for 40 minutes and force Bulleen into contested shots, pressure the ball handlers and step up in those key moments.”
In other results, the Pakenham Championship Women brushed off its first loss of the season to smash Warrandyte 86-47 at home.
On an off-night for Grace Graham, Kailey Neave, Bri Whatman and Skye Rees all contributed double-figure scoring.
The Warriors decimated the Venom in the first frame, outscoring the visitors 30-4 to open the game.
From there, the lead stretched to as many as 45 and Pakenham cruised to get back to second on the table.
The Championship Men had a heartbreaking loss away at Keysborough, with the Cougars’ fourth quarter stand snatching victory.
Steve Coffey had 24 points and five rebounds but the hosts overran the Warriors 24-16 in the final term to grab the 95-94 result.
The Youth Championship Women would have plenty of takeaways from Saturday’s home defeat to first-placed Melbourne.
The Tigers are 8-1 and the Warriors are struggling, but playing the best teams is always a way to get better.
Stella O’Loughlin had 18 points and four steals and Taleesha O’Kane provided a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds, but Melbourne was too strong and won convincingly, 54-89.
Pakenham get the chocolates in rivalry win over Bunyip
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Pakenham celebrated its second win of the season in a grudge match against local rivals Bunyip, prevailing 3-0.
The hosts’ executed well and showed profound maturity to maintain their intensity throughout a clash which always ebbs and flows with emotion.
“We try to treat it like another game and worry about getting the points but it always feels a bit different on the day because you always want to win the derby,” coach Dean Alburey said.
To heighten the energy pre-game, the coaching staff allowed the seniors to celebrate with the reserves, who were triumphant in their match, and it led to a fast start for Pakenham, which scored an early goal.
That set the tone for the match, with Pakenham playing with confidence.
Bunyip got an opening when the hosts were reduced to 10 men at IYU Recreation Reserve,
but within five minutes of the red card, Pakenham went up the other end to score, effectively sealing the result.
“Our decision-making in crucial moments and impatience had been letting us down so we worked on that at training,” Alburey said.
“Coming out of training, I had a good feeling everything would click and they put it our on the pitch and were smart for the most part.
“It was a big improvement on last week as we took a much more balanced approach into the game.
“When we were losing the ball, we were winning it back quickly and in good areas which caused problems.
“We were careful about choosing our moments, waiting for the space to open up and capitalising at halftime.”
Pakenham now sits fifth on the table, nine points behind top-placed Fortuna and this Saturday at 3pm has a road trip to Mount Martha, currently seventh.
Linden Moon played some very important minutes in Pakenham’s triumph over Sunbury. (Stewart Chambers: 465794)
Pakenham United won 3-0. (Stewart Chambers: 473738).
St Clare's Catholic Primary School in Officer
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