up to 7000 people in need per week, has launched a funding campaign to raise $15,000 for an appeal at Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
It says this is its “best and only shot at keeping our doors open”.
On 17 June, City of Casey councillors granted a six-month planning permit at the Bk 2 Basics base at Vesper Drive, but with conditions including that it must remove its op shop signage, and that it can’t charge people for food and goods.
Bk 2 Basics later stated it could comply with “95 per cent of what is asked“ - but “the other 5 per cent“ would force it to close.
“Let us be clear: without donations, we simply can’t operate.“
This week, Casey Council stated the community could still make monetary donations, with the permit designed to allow the charity to still operate safely in the Industrial 3 zone.
Bk 2 Basics had grown significantly to two factory units, and had attracted complaints from neighbouring businesses.
Prior to the permit being approved, a Casey Council officers’ report had recommended not issuing a permit.
Tea to fight the Big C
Staff (pictured) at Oakgrove Community Centre recently rallied behind the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea.
Guest speakers shared inspiring stories and insights, while stalls helped raise money for cancer research - joining hundreds of similiar events across Australia.
Anu Ravindernath, the centre’s administrator, described the event as a “resounding success” that displayed the centre’s community spirit.
“It brought together local residents, volunteers, and stallholders for a heartfelt morning of connection and fundraising.
“Guests enjoyed a variety of stalls showcasing different unique items, all made possible by the local vendors,” she said.
She also added that a highlight of the event was the guest speakers, who were able to share some inspiring stories and insights that shed light on the importance of community support in the fight against cancer.
More pictures, turn to page 10
It cited insufficient car parking, traffic and road safety impacts as well as loading and unloading, noise, and waste storage challenges.
In the meantime, state Labor MPs Belinda Wilson and Gary Maas as well as Libertarian MP David Limbrick have rallied for Bk 2 Basics’ cause.
Mayor Stefan Koomen and Casey Residents and Ratepayers’ Association vice-president Anthony Tassone have also voiced support.
More on the story, turn to pages 7 and 14
Rate rise slammed
By Violet Li
As Casey Council officially increased the general rates by 3 per cent for next year, residents say they are disappointed and describe it as a “bad move”.
Casey Council proposed an average of a 3 per cent rate increase in line with the cap set by the State Government for the next financial year, back in the April Council Meeting for the community consultation.
Star News reported in April that the Casey Res‑ idents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) was calling on the Council to freeze rates.
Fast forward to the June Council Meeting, the 3 per cent increase was adopted with unan imous support among councillors. The conver sation about the rates increase was not heavily discussed or debated at the meeting, with only Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen commenting that the increase was in line with the cap.
“Our rates will be rising by 3 per cent in accor‑ dance with the cap. We haven’t had to go beyond that,” he said at the meeting.
“We know that people are doing it tough, and the additional costs (emergency levy and waste levy) that have been talked about today are bur dens on our community and something that we’ve stood against, but ultimately, they’ve been legislated.”
Cranbourne resident Brianna, who preferred not to disclose her last name due to privacy, said she is disappointed at the rates increase.
“I think I am very much in line with the rest of the community when we say things are tough right now. People are really feeling it. It’s sort of like kicking people while they’re down,” she said.
“It was just a bad move on the council’s be‑ half. There’s been a lot of faith and trust lost in the council over the last few years. We had the council stand down and investigate. We’ve had administrators.
“And we’ve finally got a chance to elect a coun‑ cil to represent us and our interests. The first thing they do is they go for the absolute maximum in crease in a time when it’s really tough.
“This could have been a chance for them to build some trust and gain some respect back from the community.”
Brianna said people all understand rates have got to go up, but it would have been nice for the council to just go for the minimum increase this year because everyone’s doing it tough.
“My wage isn’t going up 3 per cent. My proper‑ ty value is probably not going up 3 per cent,” she said.
At the April Meeting, when confronted with public questions on the rates freeze, Mayor Koomen also made the stance that the new Coun cil chose not to seek an exemption to raise rates above the 3 per cent cap, to help ease cost‑of‑liv ing pressures.
When asked what she thought of the May‑ or’s comment that the new Council decided not to seek an exemption to raise rates above the 3 per cent cap, Brianna said it is like making the community to feel sorry for them because they “couldn’t be bothered to do the paperwork to sting the community a bit more”.
Budget
Imesh G. of Narre Warren also criticised the 3 per cent rates increase, saying the Council is not doing due diligence.
He said instead of focusing on spending, the Council should also think about cutting wasteful costs.
“One of their responsibilities is managing those funds. I don’t see that because I see a lot of waste everywhere, in terms of the projects and what they’re doing,” he said.
“If legislation says that, they can collect up to 5 per cent, I think they’ll do up to 5 per cent.
“I feel it’s unfair because everything else is increasing. Pay doesn’t increase. Everything has increased by 4 or 5 per cent.”
In terms of wasteful spending, Mr G. recollect‑ ed a time when he was told by one of the people who cut the nature strip grass that they were cut‑ ting the grass in a way that they could come back in five weeks and cut it again.
“When I cut my grass at home, I don’t cut it so that I can cut it again within several weeks,” he said.
Mr G. said his rates is almost $2,000 now.
“If the 3 per cent increase, it’s going to go more than $2,000. That’s a lot of money for the rates payment,” he said.
“And when the councillors were campaign‑ ing for the election last year, so many in my ward said they’re going to reduce rates. I haven’t heard any of the councillors who got elected doing any‑ thing. I don’t see any sort of strategy or policy that has been outlined.”
Mr G. also argued that technically, ratepayers are the shareholders of the council, but ratepay‑ ers don’t have a say in who the chief executive officer is and how much he gets paid.
He believed the chief executive officer of the City of Casey got paid too much, with over $400,000 a year.
He also pointed out that some councils were
not increasing the rates, like Bayside Council, or were trying to increase them by just 1 per cent, like Greater Dandenong.
Mark Mathews, who owns a repossession and debt collection company in Cranbourne, said it is a 3 per cent increase on top of last year’s increase and then on top of the value of the property.
“People don’t know this,” he said.
“As a small business owner who runs a repos‑ session and debt collection company, I see how hard people are doing it out here. And compared to New South Wales or Queensland, we are really bad.
“The best advice I can give people is ‘don’t bury your head in the sand’, speak with your bank or the finance companies or companies who you owe money to and try and work out a plan and stick to it.”
CRRA vice president Anthony Tassone said CRRA is very disappointed with the Council’s de‑ cision to ignore their calls for a rates freeze.
“This is despite the City of Casey’s own com‑ munity engagement and surveying data showing that there are multiple signs of financial stress in our community,” he said.
“Despite a comprehensive submission by the CRRA and the challenges being faced by the com‑ munity, it fell on deaf ears.
“During Tuesday night’s meeting, Councillors rightfully spoke out against the Victorian State government’s Emergency Services and Volun‑ teers Fund and the impact it would have on the hip pockets of residents, along with the glass‑only purple bin reforms. But when it came to council rate increases and what impact this could have on residents, there was no objection.
“This was a lost opportunity for the Council‑ lors to show leadership and demonstrate a high level of understanding of what the community is currently tackling whilst still being fiscally re‑ sponsible with the Council’s finances.”
and other documents get green light
City of Casey endorsed Budget 2025/26, Council Plan 2025/29, updated Long Term Community Vision 2025/35, and other key documents at the June Council Meeting on Tuesday 17 June.
“The adoption of these documents marks a significant milestone for our new council group,” Mayor Councillor Stefan Koomen said.
“I’d like to thank the 4,600 Casey residents who took the time to share their thoughts, sug gestions and feedback as part of our Shape Your City community engagement.
“From taking part in our surveys, being part of our community panel, and those who spoke to their submissions at our Special Council Meeting, I truly appreciate your time and effort.
“The vision represents our community’s aspirations and will guide everything we do –from planning new infrastructure to looking after our natural environment and designing public spaces for everyone to enjoy.”
During the final public submission peri od, Council received 60 submissions from the community.
According to the Council, all submissions were carefully considered by and the docu ments updated to reflect this feedback.
This includes removing funding for a car
park at Kramer Drive, with further community consultation planned instead.
“Our community have told us what services, infrastructure and initiatives they want and need, and we listened. Our Budget 2025/26 delivers to our community in a responsible and efficient way,” Mayor Koomen said.
The adopted budget has an operating bud get of $540.2 million.
A further $125.8 million is allocated to infra structure and community spaces.
“We have a massive capital works budget that reflects our council group’s desire to build better public spaces,” Mayor Koomen said.
“This is demonstrated by investing $11.8 million to develop Springleaf Recreation Re serve, updating the Hampton Park Netball courts and allocating $9.8 million for Doveton Pool in the Park.”
Other highlights of the capital works pro grams include:
■ Doubling tree planting expenditure to $3.1 mil‑ lion to increase Casey’s canopy cover;
■ Implementing new initiatives to stop graffiti vandalism;
■ Boosting funding for Maternal Child Health Services and embedding Saturday sessions for
Another tragedy
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A father‑of‑two has been killed after being struck by a car in Endeavour Hills – the second pedestrian to have died crossing the undulating stretch of Heatherton Road in the past eight months.
Anisul Karim, 51, died at the scene after the collision on an 80 km/h section near Matthew Flinders Avenue and Endeavour Hills shopping centre about 7.45pm on Friday evening 20 June.
Tributes flowed on social media for Mr Karim, a data analyst who is survived by a young family.
His friend Milon Islam told Nine News that the “whole community is in shock“.
“Leaving behind his wife and two young children... and they are shattered. They just simply cannot process it.“
The female driver was not injured and stopped at the scene, police say.
The collision scene was about 200 metres east from a signalised pedestrian crossing where a three‑year‑old girl was fatally injured after being struck by a car in October.
A man was later charged with danger ous driving causing death over the ear lier collision, which was at the corner of Heatherton Road and James Cook Drive.
Mr Islam said it was “really shocking” that no action had been taken by the State Government ‑ which manages Heatherton Road ‑ to improve safety since the October tragedy.
Since the earlier fatality, Casey Council has advocated to the state’s Transport In frastructure Minister for safety measures on Heatherton Road, including more road signage and traffic signals at the corner of James Cook Drive.
After an independent site investiga tion, the transport department reported ly liaised with Victoria Police to improve visibility of the pedestrian operated traffic lights.
In the meantime, Casey has done maintenance and road improvements to its service road’s zebra crossing leading to the traffic‑signal crossing.
Casey mayor Stefan Koomen said Ca sey was “saddened by the tragic passing of Mr Anisul Karim while crossing Heather ton Road”.
“Our thoughts are with his friends and family members during this difficult time.
“Council remains committed to keep ing our community safe. Council contin ues to work closely with (the transport department) and police to ensure the safety of our residents on Heatherton Road and similar roads within our mu nicipality.”
According to the Department of Trans port and Planning, there have been 20 reported crashes on Heatherton Road be tween James Cook Drive and Grove End Road in the decade up to 30 June 2024. Seven resulted in serious injuries.
2‑ and 3‑year‑olds;
■ $5.1 million for the new Ballarto Road Family and Community Centre;
■Increasing Community Grants to $3.5 million;
■ Expanding the Sport4all program to help clubs be inclusive of people with disabilities;
■ $5.1 million for the new Ballarto Road Family and Community Centre;
■ $2.3 million for a pavilion upgrade at Tooradin Recreation Reserve;
■ About 21 playgrounds across Casey are set to be upgraded.
Mayor Koomen added that the council would also be spending on roads, footpaths, and open spaces to support a safe, connected and active city, including $1.6 million for new recreation al trails between Eumemmerring Creek and Lysterfield.
“While our advocacy work will prioritise improved public transport options and road networks, so residents can move more freely around the City,” he said,
“As a resident of Casey, I can’t wait to see the positive impact this new Council Plan will have on the community over the coming years.”
View the adopted documents here: casey. vic.gov.au/corporate‑planning‑reporting
“Any death on our roads is a tragedy and our thoughts are with those who have been impacted,” the department stated.
“As the incident still subject to an inves tigation, it would be inappropriate to com ment further.”
In October, council election candidate Melinda Ambros – now Casey deputy mayor – called for “safer traffic light set ups, speed reduction measures and better signage” to prevent future collisions on the VicRoads‑managed road.
She said that the steep hill encouraged speeding for Dandenong‑bound traffic, and that the traffic lights malfunctioned a week prior to the October collision.
Andrew Brasilis from Endeavour Hills Chiropractor said the crossing was a “red flag” and a “black spot” – with an accident about once a month in the area.
Victoria Police will prepare a report for the coroner on the most recent fatal inci dent.
Any CCTV/dashcam footage or other information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au
Casey Mayor Councillor Stefan Koomen made the stance that the new Council chose not to seek an exemption to raise rates above the 3 per cent cap, to help ease cost-of-living pressures. (Supplied)
Car thefts surge in Casey
By Violet Li
Casey saw a 50 per cent increase in motor vehicle thefts in the twelve months to the end of March this year, while the number of alleged youth offenders dropped marginally.
The latest crime statistics from March 2024 to March 2025 have shown insights and trends in the crime activities in Casey.
The municipality recorded 28,484 offences in the year to March 2025, up 19 per cent from the previous year, the highest since 2017. About 50 per cent of the offences recorded had an investigation status of “Unsolved”.
Cranbourne topped the suburbs with the most offences (3956). The suburb has been leading since 2020.
Narre Warren seconded the crime chart with 3593 offences, followed by Berwick (3015), Clyde North (2435), and Hampton Park (1759).
About 40 per cent of the offences happened in a house (11519). Street/Lane/Footpath (3558), shopping complex (1128), driveway/carport (1124), and service station (1100) were also hotspots for frequent crimes.
The top five offence subgroups were stealing from a motor vehicle (4,012), breaching a family violence order (3374), other theft (2513), criminal damage (2064), and motor vehicle theft
(1678).
Four out of five top subgroups have had the highest offence numbers since 2016.
The subcategory of motor vehicle theft had the biggest jump of 50 per cent from the previous year, from 1118 to 1678.
The subcategory of stealing from a motor vehicle had a jump of 30 per cent, from 3097 to 4012.
The subcategory of stealing from a retail store was also hit with a more than 35 per cent surge, from 1130 to 1548.
Overall, Casey’s fastest-growing crimes mirrored the statewide trend.
“The five fastest growing crimes are mostly property crimes, which is traditionally the case in difficult economic times,” the Victoria police release states.
The number of total alleged offender incidents has grown by about 17 per cent from 7301 to 8548. Youth offenders aged 10–17 made up about 13 per cent of all age groups.
The proportion of alleged youth offenders aged 10–17 fell by 3 per cent compared to the previous year.
According to Victoria Police, statewide, youth crime remains at the highest levels since electronic records commenced in 1993, with 25,275 incidents and a 17.9 per cent increase.
“Children only account for 13.1 per cent of all
offenders processed; however, they are overrepresented in serious and violent crimes such as robberies (63.1 per cent), aggravated burglaries (46 per cent), and car theft (26.9 per cent),” the police release states.
“Victoria Police has made 3,300 arrests of Victoria’s worst youth offenders over the past year as part of Operation Trinity (home burglaries and car thefts) and Operation Alliance (youth gangs).”
Acting Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations David Clayton said there was no doubt that overall crime is higher than both the community and police would like.
“That’s why every police officer is working tirelessly to reduce crime and hold criminals accountable, as they did in these twelve months with a record 75,968 arrests,” he said.
“We know the community has strong concerns around young offenders breaking into homes to steal cars, which are then driven at high speeds on our roads.
“This offending has led to catastrophic consequences in the past year, with stolen cars involved in more than 760 crashes and six people losing their lives.
“Knife crime is another area of intense focus for Victoria Police, with officers removing an average of 44 blades from the hands of criminals every day this year.”
Leader of the Opposition Brad Battin said the data proved what Victorians already knew.
“This is evidence that what Labor is doing is not working. Community safety is clearly not their priority, and Victorians are suffering,” he said.
“We’re now in a position where people do not feel safe in the one place they should – their home.”
Shadow Minister for Police David Southwick said: “Today’s figures are deeply concerning, but they only scratch the surface. With Victoria Police critically underfunded and understaffed, countless crimes are going unreported and undetected.”
A Victorian Government spokesperson said:
“Any crime is unacceptable, and it’s why we’re continuing to introduce tough new laws to crack down on offenders. This includes the toughest bail laws in the country, putting community safety above all and delivering consequences for those who break the laws.
“These laws are working, with an increase in remand numbers, and more bail changes to come next month. We will continue to ensure our laws put community safety above all and back the important work of Victoria Police.
“Reports that the Victoria Police budget has decreased are wrong - there has been an increase of 0.2 per cent.”
Two fire calls in short succession in Clyde North region
Emergency services were kept busy in the early hours of Tuesday, after two separate fires broke out in Clyde North within minutes of each other.
The first incident occurred about 1.05am on Tuesday 24 June, on Casting Way, where CFA crews responded to reports of a warehouse fire.
On arrival, firefighters found the premises well alight, with explosions heard as the blaze took hold.
A CFA spokesperson said three CFA units from Berwick and Clyde, supported by Fire Rescue Victoria, worked to contain the fire, bringing it under control by 1.25am and declaring the scene safe shortly before 3am.
The scene has since been handed over to Victoria Police.
Just minutes later, at 1.12am, CFA units were called to a car fire on Verdant Drive, also in Clyde North.
Firefighters from Berwick and Beaconsfield quickly extinguished the burning vehicle, with the scene deemed safe by 1.33am.
According to Victoria Police, the exact cause of the fire on Casting Way is being investigated, but is being treated as suspicious at this stage.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Star News is not suggesting the two incidents are linked.
Anyone with information or anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area, with dashcam/CCTV footage or information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
on Verdant Drive in Clyde North. (Keith Pakenham - CFA) INSET: CFA responded to a
on Casting Way in Clyde North.
We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions
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
8.30pm to last train, 30 June
First train to 10.30pm, 7 to 8 July
10.30pm to last train each night, 7 to 8 July
9 July to 1.30am 12 July
From 1.30am 12 July to 13 July
9pm 18 July to 3am 21 July
Buses replace trains between Caulfield and Westall
Buses replace trains between Parliament, Caulfield and Westall
Buses replace trains between Parliament and Westall
Passengers change at Caulfield station for Frankston Line trains to and from the city
Buses replace trains between Westall, Cranbourne and Berwick
Road disruptions: Road, ramp and intersections closed
Fowler Road, Dandenong South Until 21 JulySouth Gippsland Highway intersection
Princes Freeway, Berwick Until 14 NovemberCitybound exit ramp to Clyde Road
South Gippsland Highway, Dandenong South 5 to 21 JulyBetween Princes Highway and Dandenong Bypass
Bald Hill Road, Pakenham 6 JulyRacecourse Road intersection
Anzac Station
Hit-run appeal rejected
By Violet Li
The Supreme Court of Victoria has dismissed an appeal by a Cranbourne West man to challenge his prison sentence for fleeing the scene of a serious crash in Cranbourne that left a man with lifealtering injuries.
Back in December 2023, Zachary Holmes of Cranbourne West, 21 at the time of the sentence, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious injury and failing to render assistance after a collision on the South Gippsland Highway in August 2022.
Driving at speeds up to 133 km/h in an 80km/h zone in wet conditions, Holmes struck a van turning into Clairmont Avenue, causing it to roll over.
The driver suffered multiple fractures, internal injuries and spent weeks in intensive care.
Rather than offering help, Holmes fled the scene, getting into his partner’s car and later shaving his head in an apparent attempt to avoid detection.
He surrendered to police about eight hours later.
The driver, who was seriously injured in the Cranbourne crash, delivered a victim impact statement to the court, describing the toll the incident has taken on his life.
He told the court that he had lost the ability to work and could no longer care for his disabled wife. Everyday tasks, from walking to lifting or bending, now caused him constant pain.
Once looking forward to an active retirement after 50 years of hard work, he said that his hope had been shattered.
Holmes was sentenced to a total of three years’ imprisonment, with a non-parole period of two years, including two-and-a-half years for failing to render assistance.
It was noted that his childhood was characterised by parental substance abuse, regular house moves, periods of homelessness and a lengthy involvement with child protection.
Arguing that this sentence was excessive this year, his lawyers cited his youth, early guilty plea, limited criminal history, difficult upbringing, and “excellent” rehabilitation prospects.
OPINION
Proposed Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station
The Lynbrook Residents Association (LRA) expresses its deep disappointment in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) decision to deny our request to be joined as a party to the proceeding concerning Veolia Recycling & Recovery Pty Ltd’s proposed waste transfer station at 290 Hallam Road, Hampton Park. This decision, while couched in legal reasoning, strikes at the heart of community participation and protection in environmental decisionmaking. It effectively excludes the very people who will live with the consequences of this development from meaningfully contributing to its assessment.
But the Court of Appeal found the sentence fell within range, noting Holmes’ decision to flee showed “callous” disregard for the victim and that general deterrence was an appropriate focus in sentencing for such offences.
The court agreed with the initial analysis of the sentence, including the reasoning that “drivers who fail to render assistance can usually expect the imposition of a substantial term of imprisonment”.
“The applicant’s moral culpability is not at the lower end of the range of seriousness, and the accident was not the product of momentary inattention or misjudgement,” the appeal judgment states.
“The CCTV footage does the applicant no favours at all. He fled from the scene, apparently without thought for the welfare of the person that, through his dangerous driving, he had grievously injured.”
We are particularly disheartened by what appears to be an expectation embedded in the decision — that only individuals with the time, legal expertise, and resources to meet highly technical legal thresholds can participate in defending their communities. The judgment draws a distinction between the association and its members, yet it is precisely through incorporated associations like the LRA that residents organise, advocate, and act collectively. To deny this association standing due to a perceived lack of specific harm to the incorporated entity itself is a legal technicality that undermines the broader purpose of community representation.
The ruling further asserts that the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) will act as the “contradictor” in this case, and that its presence is sufficient. With respect, we believe this fails to ap-
preciate the value of local voices who bring lived experience, practical knowledge of existing environmental conditions, and community-specific concerns to the table — including matters the EPA may choose not to pursue.
It is worth noting that the decision acknowledges the LRA’s long-standing involvement in waste management issues affecting our area. Yet that same history of advocacy is seemingly deemed insufficient to justify our formal participation. This paradox reinforces a troubling message: unless an organisation can present technical evidence or demonstrate harm in precise legal terms, its community interests may be set aside.
Furthermore, the structure of this process effectively eliminates anyone else from being able to question or appeal the potential outcome. The mechanism leaves a community of thousands
without a voice in a decision that may have serious environmental, health, and amenity consequences. It raises a fundamental question: Is this a system that truly protects the community, or one that inadvertently protects projects from community scrutiny?
The LRA remains committed to advocating for the interests of Lynbrook and surrounding communities. We will continue to make our voices heard in all available forums, despite this setback. We call on the State Government and relevant agencies to review the effectiveness of current legislation in enabling genuine community participation — not just in principle, but in practice. Signed, Scott Watson President, Lynbrook Residents Association 18 June 2025
Zachary Holmes’s crumpled Ford Falcon and the overturned delivery van after the serious crash on South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne, in August 2022.
Zachary Holmes of Cranbourne West overspeeded by about 50km/h and struck a van turning into Clairmont Avenue, causing it to roll over in August 2022. (Gary Sissons: 295991)
Charity launches legal fight
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Narre Warren charity Bk 2 Basics intends to mount a legal fight saying it will be otherwise forced to close under new “impossible” restrictions placed by City of Casey.
The charity which helps feed up to 7000 people in need per week has launched a funding campaign to raise $15,000 for an appeal at Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
It says this is its “best and only shot at keeping our doors open”.
On 17 June, Casey councillors granted a sixmonth planning permit at the Bk 2 Basics base at Vesper Drive, but with conditions including that it must remove its op shop signage, and that it can’t charge people for food and goods.
Bk 2 Basics later stated it could comply with “95 per cent of what is asked“ - but “the other 5 per cent“ would force it to close.
“Let us be clear: without donations, we simply can’t operate.
“We get next to no funding.
“We pay for food, yes, we purchase it ourselves, and we also rely on generous donations from our amazing partners like OzHarvest, Foodbank, and SecondBite. Plus all other operation costs.
“To pay our large food costs (yes it’s not all free) to pay our insurances, power, diesel, petrol, rodent control, waste management, homeless supplies, DV accomodation, etc etc we can do this not by funding, not by grants.
“We do this from the proceeds of our $1 op shop and our donation system for food.”
Last week, Shannon – daughter of Bk 2 Basics founder Kelly Warren – told Star News that they weren’t charging “a lot” for food and items.
“It’s mostly just a dollar and it helps a lot of families who aren’t able to afford (similar items).
“We also don’t charge (everyone) that’s coming through, we give them free items.”
In a statement, Casey Council stated it acknowledged and valued the charity’s “wonder-
ful work” in supporting vulnerable community members.
Bk 2 Basics had grown significantly to two factory units, and had attracted complaints from neighbouring businesses in the Industrial 3 zone.
Casey stated that the permit conditions ensured visitors could safely access the site.
“We want to reassure our community that you will still be able to make monetary donations to Bk 2 Basics.”
Under the permit, visitors are required to book to access the op shop and numbers are capped to
12 at a time during operating hours.
Prior to the permit being approved, a Casey Council officers’ report had recommended not issuing a permit.
It cited insufficient car parking, traffic and road safety impacts as well as loading and unloading, noise, and waste storage challenges.
“On balance, while the service provides significant benefit to its users, Council is not satisfied that the Charitable Distribution Centre as proposed, on a constrained site, can operate in a manner that achieves an acceptable or orderly
FOCUS ON … LOCAL BUSINESS
planning outcome.”
In the meantime, state Labor MPs Belinda Wilson and Gary Maas as well as Libertarian MP David Limbrick have rallied for Bk 2 Basics’ cause.
Mayor Stefan Koomen and Casey Residents and Ratepayers’ Association vice-president Anthony Tassone have also voiced support.
Due to his public support, Cr Koomen declared a conflict of interest and excluded himself from the permit vote on 17 June.
Within 24 hours, Bk 2 Basics had received nearly $3000 in pledges for its legal appeal.
Paradigm Health there for all your medical needs
For most people, particularly families, finding a clinic where their ongoing medical needs can be met is a priority. Paradigm Health on Princes, under husband and wife team Anthony Mew and Dr Mia Majid, have just officially opened their clinic and are ready to help the community.
The name Paradigm Health on Princes emphasises a new model for high-quality healthcare. This bright, welcoming clinic is located in a complex that houses a range of diverse businesses from dentist and government agencies like NDIS, to allied health related clinics, beauty salons, and cafes. Located with plenty of parking, it is easily accessible for anyone with mobility problems.
Families will be able to access help for a whole range of health needs: from consultations to minor surgical procedures, to specialist skin care and mental health support.
An on-site pathology collection is open to all members of the community, not just patients of the clinic.
Bulk billing is available for those eligible and, unlike in some other practices, these appointments will not be limited to certain times of the day.
As a General Practitioner, Dr Majid is both the owner and a regular locum in the clinic and understands how navigating modern living can result in neglecting personal health issues, particularly among working mums. As a General Practitioner, she speaks of helping with contraception and the various ways of navigating a difficult menopause, as well as other stresses of modern living.
The clinic doctors are supported by an outstanding Registered Nurse, Sam Gonzales. Sam has a wealth of experience in both hospitals and supporting General Practice clinics. Sam provides outstanding support to the doctors; however, she is also highly skilled in delivering treatments such as iron infusions, care-plan development, vaccinations and other minor procedures.
The clinic prides itself in the care offered in
specialist areas, particularly in detecting and monitoring skin changes. Specialist care in this area is provided by Dr Michael Inskip, whose work both here and overseas in skin cancer diagnosis and surgery is highly regarded.
Since 2008, he has diagnosed over 3000 basal cell carcinomas, over 1500 squamous cell carcinomas and over 800 melanomas. Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancers and melanoma, the deadliest in the world.
Recent trends have seen the younger members of our community experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders and other mental health issues. It is important that they feel comfortable in seeking help and Paradigm Health strives to be a
welcoming an safe place for anyone experiencing symptoms of mental health issues.
Paradigm Health on Princes is looking to grow the services it offers, initially through after-hours appointments for people with very busy work schedules and subsequently by delivering services that best support the local Officer community and the Cardinia Shire.
Paradigm on Princes, 19/445 Princes Hwy, Officer. Phone 7001 1400.
Email: reception@paradigmonprinces.com.au
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Paradigm Health on Princes team - Dan Chomlak, Dr Mia Majid, Dr Chander Hrstic, Dr Mike Inskip and Cosmetic Nurse Chloe.
Locals stranded in war zone
by Sahar Foladi
Residents from the South East were among 872 stranded Australians in Iran as conflict escalated in the Middle East.
Due to safety concerns, names and locations aren’t revealed in this article.
A Greater Dandenong resident travelled to Iran along with her mother to visit family.
They were due to fly back on Thursday 19 June but all flights were cancelled as Iran’s airspace closed off.
Through a weak internet signal, she described the situation as dangerous.
Residents with family members in Iran say they cannot get in touch with them due to limited to no internet connection, heightening their concerns.
A City of Casey resident is also stuck in the country and in close proximity to one of the areas bombed by Israel’s military.
She witnessed black smokes in the air, buildings crumble and some move away to a safe location.
“There were a lot of explosions on the very first night, it went for an hour behind our place.
“The banks are closed and all accounts are blocked.
“It’s difficult to take cash out and recently there was a limit of 300 rials withdrawal.”
She got in a car along with her family to find
anywhere safe to stay, away from the bombardment.
A spokesperson for Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong says the safety of Australians are a priority, and has urged Australians to take shelter in Iran and follow the advice of local authorities in affected areas.
“The Government understands this is distressing time for Australians in the region, and for their loved ones back home.
“Airspace is closed in Iran, Israel, and Iraq and there remains intermittent airspace closures in Jordan.
“This is because of the risk to commercial aircraft from the strikes.
“DFAT’s consular team is working to assist Australians to safety, via land and air when it is safe to do so.
“Australian citizens or permanent resident in the region can register on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s crisis registration portal.
“We continue to communicate directly with registered Australians with important updates, so it is important that those registered keep their details up to date.”
As of Wednesday 18 June there were 872 Australian passport holders and family members registered on the DFAT Crisis Portal and confirmed as wanting to depart.
A stranded South East resident’s photo of a bombing in Iran’s capital Tehran.
Women in aviation: Berwick student flies high with RAAF
By Philip Salama-West
Berwick College student Jessica Sellers was able to get up close and personal with Air Force aircraft this May at RAAF Base Williamtown, in New South Wales.
The Women in Aviation Program, run by the Royal Australian Air Force, invites young women from the ages of 15 and 24 to spend four days at an airbase and discover the opportunities afforded by a career in aviation.
Jessica says she loved her time in the program, learning the inner workings of the service and getting to know active RAAF personnel.
Jessica and her compatriots in the program were taken through all aspects of life in the Air Force, from the physical fitness regime, to the busy work done in an air traffic control tower, to getting to know how trainer aircraft fly, and even interacting with the base’s working dogs and their handlers.
We encourage every student to pursue excellence in all endeavours and aim to ensure every student achieves their best potential so they are ready - not just for the completion of their final exams but for life!
To find out more, book a tour and apply please visit our website or use the QR Code.
“I felt empowered using and observing the Air Force equipment, and I felt a sense of comfort wearing the uniform and learning something new every day.”
She noted that she was surprised by the variety of things to do and potential roles to fill.
“I believe that even if you don’t know what you want to do in the future, this program can give you ideas and enlighten you about jobs in the Air Force that you would never think exist. Especially for women.”
“Everyone seems to have this image in their heads of what the Air Force looks like; I believe the real thing is so much better than the movies,” Jessica said.
Berwick local Jessica Sellers in front of an RAAF c-17A Globemaster III transport plane. (Royal Australian Air Force)Jessica learned about aspects of Air Force life like aircraft maintenance and repair. (Royal Australian Air Force)
Seeking more connections
Downsizing looks a whole lot different today. While some still seek a quiet life in a smaller home, many over 50s are looking for more. More connection. More friendship. More opportunity to invest in themselves. More community.
For Pam, Anita and Lyn, the dream was always to buy a piece of land and build a small community together. And they’re not alone. With the rising cost of living, increasing loneliness and the fast pace of modern life, community living has become more popular than ever in recent years. But when reality hit, and the three friends were looking to downsize, they realised their dream may be out of reach.
That’s when they looked into Lifestyle Communities and began to imagine a new version of their dream, where that sense of community was already built in. Here, they found more than just a place to live. They found neighbours who became friends, resort-style amenities to enjoy and the freedom to enjoy life on their own terms.
Like them, more than 5,800 Victorians have already made the move to a Lifestyle Communities, enjoying the connection, security, lowmaintenance homes and a simpler way to live. It’s not just about downsizing their home. It’s about upsizing their lifestyle.
It turns out Pam, Anita and Lyn didn’t need to build their own community from the ground up. They just needed to find the right one. Are you ready to join them? Explore what community could look like for you in Clyde at our next Open Day on June 28 from 10am to 12pm at Lifestyle Meridian and 12pm to 2pm at Lifestyle Riverfield.
Call 1300 50 55 60 to learn more or visit lifestylecommunities.com.au/events.
Why more over 50s are choosing to live together, not alone.
Saturday 28th June 2025
Lifestyle Meridian 10am – 12pm | 9 Twynam Road, Clyde North
Discover what makes over 50s living at Lifestyle Communities® a place where you can thrive. With two vibrant communities in Clyde – Lifestyle Meridian and Lifestyle Riverfield – grab a free coffee and tour our state-of-the-art Clubhouses, amenities, and modern homes. Chat with our friendly homeowners and immerse yourself in a lifestyle filled with fun, connection and endless possibilities.
Walk in on the day or RSVP to 1300 50 55 60. Scan the QR code for more.
Lifestyle
Levy topic of hot debate
By Ethan Benedicto
The topic of the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund remained hot during the June Casey council meeting, as the gallery clapped for Cr Shane Taylor.
Cr Taylor, initially speaking on the suite of corporate planning documents, said that while he acknowledges the “enormous amount of work that has gone into our suite of planning documents… I can’t stand by and ignore the elephant in the room”.
“The relentless cost of shifting from the State Government onto local councils and, by extension, onto our residents; frankly, that’s unacceptable.
“Let’s talk about the so-called emergency services fund levy; this is a state tax, plain and simple, but they’re using councils as their collection agency,” Cr Taylor said.
Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, previously told Star News that while he sees the new ESVF
as unfair, the new levy’s legal requirements mean that its implementation is all but guaranteed.
“We value the crucial role emergency services play in supporting our Casey communities; however, we believe this increased levy unfairly places further financial pressure on our community,” Koomen said then.
“Undertaking this role places extra pressure on council resources, and we will continue to work with the state government and other stakeholders, including MAV, to ensure a smooth implementation within our community.”
Cr Taylor had some strong statements regarding the new levy, adding that while the new charge will be present in every Casey resident’s notice, “not a single dollar stays in Casey”.
“The state claims it’s for vital emergency services, but the reality is it’s just another way to pad their coffers while families here struggle to keep up with skyrocketing bills and grocery prices,” he said.
He added that it’s “tone deaf”, considering that
many are struggling, and that Victoria and Australia, as a whole, are experiencing a cost-of-living crisis.
This development comes as the inner-Melbourne council of the City of Yarra and its mayor, Stephen Jolly, recently said to the Herald Sun that the city is actively pursuing legal avenues in order to oppose the ESVF.
The new levy is set to replace the old Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) on 1 July, meaning residents will have to pay almost double the variable rates under the new levy.
For residential properties, the median range will grow by more than 30 per cent from $191 to $254.
Neighbouring LGAs, Cardinia Shire and Greater Dandenong, have both stated that they will not be joining the ESVF’s boycott, and that like Casey, will be applying the rates as they come into effect next month.
Cr Taylor, in continuation, highlighted that Victoria’s landfill levy has also soared, “adding
Morning tea raises funds to fight cancer
Oakgrove Community Centre in Narre Warren South saw the local community come together for Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea event.
Held on Wednesday, 18 June, the centre was abuzz with warmth, laughter and generosity as community members gathered for the morning tea in support of the Cancer Council.
Anu Ravindernath, the centre’s administrator, said that the event was a “resounding success”.
“It brought together local residents, volunteers, and stallholders for a heartfelt morning of connection and fundraising.
“Guests enjoyed a variety of stalls showcasing different unique items, all made possible by the local vendors,” she said.
She also added that a highlight of the event was the guest speakers, who were able to share some inspiring stories and insights that shed light on the importance of community support in the fight against cancer.
“The community spirit was also evident through the generous donations received for the raffle prize, with many individuals and businesses contributing items to help raise funds,” Anu said.
“We’re incredibly proud of the turnout and the support we received, it’s heartening to see many people come together for such a worthy cause.”
millions to our waste management costs”, which are costs that “fall squarely on local ratepayers”. He also went on to say that the upcoming mandated four-bin system, which he referred to as “an unfunded directive”, is “costing us millions more”.
“While Casey is experiencing record growth in demand for services like maternal and child health, state funding is nowhere near where it’s needed,” he said.
Despite the added costs, however, Cr Taylor did add that Casey itself is in a healthy financial position, and that the council continues to invest in key infrastructure such as roads, parks and kindergartens.
“We’re doing everything we can to minimise and lessen the impact of these state-imposed costs,” he said.
“But let’s be clear, our community deserves better from the state government; we need real support, real solutions, not more financial burdens disguised as gold.”
Donation boosts library offering
Casey residents and long-time library supporters Robin and Arnis Dzedins have once again donated to Connected Libraries.
Their donation will fund two key initiatives: the purchase of laptops and WiFi dongles for free public borrowing, and funds towards the creation of a creative hub where members can learn a new skill or hobby at Hampton Park Library.
The laptops will be available for members to borrow free of charge in late 2025.
“Our gift is a practical way to support our local library service to expand its social inclusion and access programs,” Robin said. “We especially hope it benefits those learning English or just starting to use computers.”
Library members can borrow a laptop for up to three months at no cost by simply searching ‘Laptop’ at connectedlibraries. org.au, placing a hold, and waiting to be notified when one is available.
Laptops are available on a first-in, firstserved basis.
“For many in our community, having access to a laptop can open the door to learning, creativity and connection. It’s a wonderful example of what’s possible when community members support each other,” Beth Luppino, chief executive officer of Connected Libraries, said.
In addition to supporting digital access at home, the Dzedins’ donation will also contribute $5,000 for members to access equipment they may not have at home to learn a new hobby or skill.
This equipment will be available at Hampton Park Library, a creative hub where community members can explore hands-on learning in areas like coding, design, and craft.
Robin and Arnis, who are passionate about giving back, said the library had played a meaningful role in their lives.
“We wanted to support something practical that would help others gain skills, confidence and access to technology,” Robin said. Arnis added: “We’re proud to be part of a project that will give more people the chance to learn, create and connect— especially those who need it most.”
Connected Libraries welcomes donations from community members who want to support local access to lifelong learning.
To learn more about donating, visit: connectedlibraries.org.au/donations
Staff and guests were all smiles during the Big Morning Tea fundraiser. INSET: Cr Kim Ross, in the right, sits amongst the large crowd inside the community centre’s hall, all listening eagerly to the guest speakers. (Gary Sissons: 484210)
From left to right, Trish Burridge, one of the guest speakers, and Mary Amalraj. (Gary Sissons: 484210_05)
Arnis and Robin Dzedins with Beth Luppino, chief executive officer of Connected Libraries. (Stewart Chambers: 485423)
Start planning for 2026-27
With fourteen new ocean itineraries announced by Viking exploring the Mediterranean, United Kingdom, Ireland and Scandinavia in 2026 and 2027 now open for booking, travellers who appreciate cruising at its best are encouraged to book now to avoid missing out.
Viking CEO and Chairman Torstein Hagen said the cruises ranged from 15 to 36 days and each of the new voyages combine two or more of Viking’s most popular itineraries to allow for more in-depth exploration.
“Viking guests are curious travellers who are interested in enriching their lives by exploring and learning about the world,” the CEO said.
“With our destination-focused approach and elegant small ships, our voyages have always been designed to bring guests closer to their destination and provide opportunities for cultural immersion. These new voyages offer even more choices for guests who wish to extend their time abroad with one seamless itinerary.”
With a fleet of small sister ships, Viking offers more than 100 itineraries across all five oceans. Viking’s new ocean voyages visit celebrated cultural capitals, as well as emerging destinations, throughout Europe and beyond and include the following:
If it’s time to explore the Mediterranean in style, these exciting cruises planned for 2026 and 2027 are perfect to book now.
The Jewels of the Mediterranean: (15 days; Rome roundtrip) – Explore the famed landmarks of Italy, Tunisia, Spain and France and embark on a voyage through the Mediterranean Sea.
See Palermo’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sicily, trace the stunning Amalfi Coast and be immersed in Sardinian culture.
Sail to Tunisia’s vibrant La Goulette, call at historic Valencia, visit glamorous Monte Carlo and stroll the streets of colourful Sète with overnights in Barcelona and Florence to allow time to explore more.
Also new is the Gems of the Mediterranean: (15 days; Barcelona roundtrip) – Experience the best of Spain, Italy and France during an incredible 15-day journey. See Valencia’s stunning architecture and the historic sites of La Goulette. Trace the spectacular shores of Sardinia and the iconic Amalfi Coast. Take in the treasured ruins of Rome and stroll the romantic streets of Florence and Pisa. Discover elegant Monte Carlo, picturesque Marseille and wander the colourful, canal-lined walkways of lesser-known Sète. Take in the wonders of Spain, Portugal and the Mediterranean: (15 days; between Lisbon –Rome) – Circumnavigate the Iberian Peninsula, calling at Lisbon and Andalusian gems. Visit Barcelona and its cherished sights, including the Sagrada Familía, the unfinished masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí. Discover scenic Sète to enjoy its award-winning beachside vistas and see stylish Monte Carlo, the crowning jewel of the French Riviera. An overnight in Florence brings you more time to fully immerse yourself in its Renaissance treasures.
Be one of the first to book the Adriatic and Mediterranean Discovery: (22 days; between Venice –Lisbon) – Set sail on a voyage to explore the rich heritage of the Adriatic and the Western Mediterranean. Discover the vibrant cities of Iberia and experience the splendour of the French Riviera. Wander through Renaissance and Roman treasures along Italy’s western coast and marvel at the historic ports along Adriatic shores. Overnight in Venice, Barcelona, Florence and Lisbon to be fully immersed in some of the Mediterranean’s most iconic cultural capitals.
The new 2026 and 2027 Iberia and Mediter-
ranean Antiquities: (22 days; between Lisbon –Athens) – See some of the world’s most important ancient sites during a sojourn to Mediterranean shores. Discover the grand architecture of Seville, Tangier and Granada, see Palma’s storied beaches and visit bustling Barcelona. See the iconic treasures of historic Rome, stroll through glittering Monte Carlo and be captivated by Marseille’s beachside charm. Overnights in Lisbon, Barcelona, Florence and Athens will allow guests to fully immerse in local life.
Return travellers trust Viking which was rated number one for Oceans, number one for Rivers
and number one for Expeditions by Conde Nast Traveler in the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards for the second consecutive year. Viking was also named a “World’s Best” for oceans, rivers and expeditions in Travel and Leisure’s 2024 World’s Best Awards. Cruise Critic honoured Viking with seven awards across the Luxury (Ocean), River and Expedition categories 2024 Best in Cruise Awards so guests are in good hands
These are just a few of the new cruises planned for 2026 and 2027 so find more about these cruises or cruises to London, Iceland, Norway and Europe at www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
Magical Monte Carlo.
Sunset over Vatican City.The
Explorers Lounge on the Viking Star.The Viking Explorer suite living room.
Discover More of the Mediterranean FOR LESS IN 2025
3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing
Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse
Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat
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Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour
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3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast
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2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park and Flinders Chase National Park
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Village character is key
The Draft Berwick Village Major Activity Centre Structure Plan is now open for community feedback.
The draft structure plan was endorsed at the May council meeting.
It outlines the long-term vision to guide how the area grows, develops and evolves.
In 2024, Casey Council gathered community feedback and ideas for the area to understand what matters most.
According to the Council, this feedback has helped shape the updates to the structure plan to support growth and development while preserving and enhancing the area for years to come.
CityofCaseyMayorCouncillorStefanKoomen said: “The Berwick Village Activity Centre’s beloved village character remains at the heart of its future.
“I’m confident that the draft structure plan will ensure that improvements can be made to benefit the Casey community, while protecting the charm and unique feel of Berwick Village.
“I encourage residents to participate in the next step of this engagement process and share their feedback.”
The community can see how their initial feedback helped shape the draft plan and have a say in refining the final structure plan.
Akoonah Ward Cr Scott Dowling said: “As a long-term Berwick resident, I’m dedicated to keeping our town vibrant, connected and sustainable, whilst maintaining the charm.
“I encourage all our residents to share their ideas on how we shape the future of our home ground.”
Residents can attend one of the planned popups (details below) to ask questions and provide feedback, or they can share their thoughts
Parliamentary defence as charity rallies for support
By Ethan Benedicto
Discussions around Narre Warren-based charity, BK2Basics, have reached Victoria’s parliament, as the charity rallies the support of the local community following the six-month extension by the City of Casey.
Libertarian MP David Limbrick asked for an exemption and defended the organisation’s struggle against Casey, saying that the charity’s owners, Craig and Kelly, “are not treated like heroes”.
“Because of a complaint, the City of Casey has decided to apply rules to them like they are a retail operation, which they are not.
“These rules will eventually make it impossible for them to operate,” he said.
The council recently decided on Tuesday, 17 June, to provide the charity an additional six months to meet application requirements.
Since then, local MPs in Narre Warren North and South, Belinda Wilson MP and Gary Maas MP, respectively, have shown their support through published posts on Facebook.
He, like the other MPs, highlighted that the charity provides for over 7000 people on a weekly basis, and that their impact can be felt throughout the city.
“They range housing for the homeless and victims of domestic violence, they provide dignity and community for people at a low point in their
lives,” Limbrick said.
“With generous support of local businesses, they work out of an industrial estate in Narre Warren; their operation is tidy, and they are considerate neighbours.”
He added that the constrictions applied by the Casey Council have “the potential to devastate thousands of people”.
“My question to the minister is: will you consider granting an exemption to the zoning requirements to allow BK2Basics to feed the clothe the disadvantaged people in south-east Melbourne?” he said.
In light of this, BK2Basics recently posted on Facebook that while deliberations were being made on their application, they have decided to shy away from the media.
However, as Casey’s decision was felt not to have made any improvements, they stated that they need the community’s help.
ABC News visited the charity on Tuesday, 24 June, to conduct interviews and speak to local community members who have been impacted by the charity’s work.
The charity stated that the reason for putting the media off was “in respect of everyone”, but after the meeting, “things have changed”.
The comments were quick to fill with netizens’ accounts of the charity’s impact, many recalling past incidents, and many eager to speak about their experiences and make it public.
through Casey Conversations: conversations.casey.vic.gov.au
Pop Up 1: Saturday, 28 June, 12-3pm at Pio-
MPs support for charity
By Ethan Benedicto
In light of the added six months of breathing room granted to Narre Warren-based charity BK2Basics during the 17 June Casey council meeting, local MPs have voiced their support for the organisation.
Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas posted on Facebook, saying that the charity has been “serving our area for many years through their community pantry - providing essential food support to those facing financial insecurity”.
“The family [behind the charity] and their incredible volunteers have been doing this for so many years with minimal government support, and I am grateful for the work that they do,” he said.
Likewise, northern neighbour, Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson, also published a post in support of the charity.
She highlighted that for 10 years, the fam-
ily and volunteers behind the charity “have worked tirelessly to support families in the City of Casey and ensure they have enough food to meet their needs”.
“In times of disasters, while many sit at home waiting for reports on the news, Kelly and the Bk2Basics team are on the front line making sure volunteers have the support they need to protect us all,” she said.
Both MPs have emphasised the number of people that BK2Basics supports, upwards of 7000 people on a weekly basis, with Wilson saying that “to close their doors would have a negative impact on many local families in need”.
By the same token, Maas said that the families helped by the charity “just can’t be absorbed by our other hardworking food charities”, and that, prior to the council meeting, he had hoped for a balance on planning considerations.
City of Casey Mayor Councillor Stefan Koomen and Akoonah Ward Cr Scott Dowling were inviting locals to provide their feedback on the Draft Berwick Village Major Activity Centre Structure Plan. (Supplied)
Libertarian MP David Limbrick has called for an exemption to BK2Basics’ application in parliament. (On File)
Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas. (Supplied/File)
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A journey on the yoga mat
Casey International Day of Yoga, hosted by the community organisation Saath Multicultural Association of Australia (Saathi MAA), brought more than 100 people together for a celebration of health, mindfulness, and multicultural unity.
Led by Saathi MAA founder and Casey Woman of the Year Chanchal Kumavat, the free event in the early morning of Saturday 21 June blended yoga practice with a message of community support.
The free yoga session began with an introduction by Anusha, a member of Saathi, followed by a speech by Chanchal Kumavat.
In her speech, Ms Kumavat emphasised Saathi’s mission to support the community through volunteering, mentoring, and providing essential resources to those in need. She encouraged the community to embrace yoga for improved mental and physical health.
Casey Mayor Councillor Stefan Koomen, who lit the ceremonial lamp to open the day,
hailed it as the “biggest and most impactful yoga session in Casey to date”.
Councillors Kim Ross and Carolyn Eaves also joined residents on the mat.
According to Ms Kumavat, the highlight of the day was a serene and energising onehour yoga session conducted by Komal Ghai, a skilled instructor who is currently offering free ongoing yoga sessions in partnership with Saathi for those who wish to continue their wellness journey.
“The atmosphere was filled with joy, gratitude, and a shared commitment to health and harmony,” she said.
“The event served not only as a wellness initiative but as a shining example of what passionate leadership and community collaboration can achieve.
“It brought together people of all backgrounds under one roof, promoting peace, mindfulness, and healthy living.”
ACCC backs need for local journalism: Andrew Schreyer
Country Press Australia has welcomed the release of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s final report from its Digital Platform Services Inquiry, describing it as a landmark moment that recognises the systemic challenges facing regional and local news publishers in the digital age.
CPA President Andrew Schreyer said the report confirmed what independent publishers had known for years, that global tech giants are using their market dominance to control how journalism is accessed, valued and monetised in Australia, to the detriment of local news.
“This report confirms what our members have experienced for a long time,” Mr Schreyer said.
“Local and regional publishers continue to face deeply entrenched power imbalances in their dealings with the major digital platforms. This has real consequences for the sustainability of journalism in our communities.”
Mr Schreyer said the federal government must now move quickly to implement the News Bargaining Incentive legislation, especially in light of Meta’s refusal to renew deals with publishers since announcing their withdrawal from news arrangements last year.
“Meta has walked away from compensating
publishers entirely, and others like TikTok have never come to the table at all,” he said.
“The incentive legislation is essential to ensure that all major platforms are required to contribute to the journalism they benefit from, either by negotiating in good faith or by making a fair payment.”
He also emphasised that public funding support for journalism, including through the News Media Assistance Program (NewsMAP), must be directed to publishers who are actively producing local public interest journalism.
“Funding should go to the journalists and newsrooms who are on the ground covering councils, courts, community stories and local sport,” Mr Schreyer said.
“These are the voices that hold local institutions to account and help communities stay connected. They need direct and meaningful support.”
The ACCC report draws attention to a range of broader issues threatening journalism, including a lack of dispute resolution options for small publishers, harmful practices by dominant platforms, and the growing use of AI tools that can devalue or displace credible news.
“We support stronger platform obligations to prevent scams and fake reviews, and we also support enforceable transparency requirements that
ensure fair treatment of news content,” Mr Schreyer said.
“We need to see the major platforms treated as gatekeepers with clear responsibilities when it comes to how news is ranked, labelled and monetised.
“We urge the government to consider the rise of AI and its use of publishers’ content and the need for publishers to be fairly compensated for this as part of the News Bargaining Incentive framework.”
He said the rise of AI-generated content and the continued spread of misinformation on social
media made it more important than ever for Australians to understand what credible journalism looks like.
“Improving digital literacy must be a national priority,” Mr Schreyer said.
“Australians need the tools to distinguish factbased journalism from misinformation, especially in an environment where AI and algorithms are shaping so much of what people see.”
Country Press Australia represents almost 240 independently owned newspapers that serve regional, rural and suburban communities across the country. These publishers are embedded in the communities they serve and continue to provide vital public interest journalism in an increasingly disrupted media environment.
Mr Schreyer said the ACCC report provided a clear path forward and urged the government to act.
“We strongly support the ACCC’s push for a new digital competition regime and external dispute resolution so our members can operate on a level playing field,” he said.
“Our regional, rural and local news outlets are the backbone of Australia’s democracy and they must be supported through practical reforms and fairer digital market conditions.”
Saathi MAA founder and 2025 Casey Woman of the Year Chanchal Kumavat was stretching herself at the free yoga session. (Stewart Chambers: 482727)
Komal Ghai led the yoga class.
The free yoga session by Saathi MAA brought more than 100 people to Arthur Wren Hall in the early morning of Saturday 21 June.
Stretching.
Andrew Schreyer is the President of Country Press Australia, and publisher of the Warragul and Drouin Gazette.
City of Casey Mayor Councillor Stefan Koomen during the yoga.
A celebration of health, mindfulness, and multicultural unity.
Casey Mayor Councillor Stefan Koomen, who lit the ceremonial lamp to open the day, hailed it as the “biggest and most impactful yoga session in Casey to date”.
Cr Kim Ross.
Memeti welcomes SBS bid
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
In a show of bipartisan unity, Victorian upperhouse MPs have called for public broadcaster SBS to be based in one of Melbourne’s multicultural hotspots such as Dandenong.
Liberal upper house MP Evan Mulholland, who brought the successful motion in State Parliament on 18 June, said it sent a message to those living in Broadmeadows or Dandenong.
“If you come from a migrant background … Victorian members of Parliament want you to feel connected to your community, want SBS to be located in your community and want to see you employed in your community with the jobs that would create.”
He noted the multilingual and multicultural broadcaster’s NSW-centric focus – with just 14 per cent of staff based in Victoria.
The Federal Government had also recently announced western Sydney as home to a new SBS production hub.
This was despite Victoria becoming “more
diverse” and “growing faster” than NSW, he said.
“It is meant to be the Special Broadcasting Service, but it may as well be called the Sydney Broadcasting Service.”
In opposition, Libertarian South-East Metropolitan MP David Limbrick said he didn’t support SBS having a “physical presence anywhere”.
Viewers could watch “TV from any part of the world” on streaming platforms, and before that on satellite TV, he said.
“I have both friends of my family and friends of my kids from the Chinese, Malaysian, Indonesian, Indian, Russian and Ukrainian communities, just about every community that you can imagine, and I have never heard any of them talk about the SBS.”
Labor South-East Metropolitan MP Michael Galea backed an SBS Dandenong headquarters.
He said he’s spoken to people in the South East who value and enjoy SBS, as well as thriving new media like the Dandenong-based Australian Multicultural Media Centre (AMMC).
Clyde educator honoured
By Philip Salama-West
A Year 3 teacher at Clyde Grammar has been honoured for her outstanding work as an educator with the prestigious Peter McRae Meyer Primary Teaching Prize.
Bellamie Evans, who has been teaching at Clyde Grammar since the beginning of the year, was selected for the Prize after receiving exemplary mentor reports and a glowing recommendation from her teaching partner, Greg Newham.
Evans received the prize at the annual Scholarships and Awards Evening held at Melbourne’s Art Centre, alongside a framed certificate and a gift of $1000 donated by the family of Peter McRae Meyer, a dedicated primary educator and the prize’s namesake.
Evans was delighted to receive the prize, which has served to bolster her confidence as a teacher.
“It’s a wonderful reminder that the long hours and hard work throughout my studies and placement were all worth it. Professionally, it’s given me a huge boost of confidence and I feel energised to keep learning and growing as a teach-
“(SBS) provides a very unique type of media and entertainment and news and factual information as well to communities that often do not get to have their voices, their stories represented in the broader mainstream media.”
Liberal arts spokesperson David Davis noted Greater Dandenong, Monash and Hume were among the councils who had “stepped forward” to host SBS’s headquarters.
Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti was unaware if Greater Dandenong had pushed for it but said he’d be a “huge supporter” of the idea.
“It would be fantastic if Dandenong could be the headquarters,” adding that it would be within a South East region of about 1.5 million.
“We’re definitely a leader of multiculturalism, there’s so many stories to tell.
“It would be great to have SBS in the heart of the most multicultural community in Australia.”
AMMC founder Hussen Mahamad said Dandenong was the “most deserving” location.
“We’ve got a lot of media here, a lot of activity,” said Mahamad – who founded AMMC in
Dandenong due to a lack of diverse representation in the Australian media.
Representation was improving in mainstream media, but Mahamad would like to see substantial changes at SBS.
For instance, its multilingual content targeted an ageing demographic born overseas. But it had little relevance with younger, English-speaking generations born in Australia.
SBS declined to comment on the Parliamentary debate.
In a State Parliament inquiry into cultural and creative industries, SBS submitted that it had a substantial 50-year history in Victoria. It submitted it had a “highly visible office” in Federation Square, Melbourne that delivered multicultural media services for all Australians and significant on-the-ground presence across the state.
It produced content such as National Indigenous Television, news, audio and entertainment, with many language programs produced exclusively in Melbourne.
Major reforms unveiled to cut gas use across Victoria
The State Government has announced new changes to cut gas use, including phasing out gas hot water systems, mandating electric new builds, and updating Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for rentals.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio announced the gas reforms on Tuesday 24 June.
The State Government states that gas supplies from the Bass Strait are dwindling, and prices are going up, which is driving the reforms.
“We are not just making sure Victoria has the gas it needs. We are reserving it for industry,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.
“Families will pay less on their energy bills; industry will get the gas it needs; and Victorian jobs are protected.”
The State Government projects that by 2029, the reforms will unlock just under 12 petajoules (PJ) of gas every year, more than the annual production of Beach Energy’s Enterprise field.
By 2035, the reforms will deliver 44 PJ annually, enough to meet 85 per cent of Victoria’s forecast industrial demand.
Gas hot water system
Under new regulations from 1 March 2027, when a gas hot water system reaches the end of its life, it must be replaced with an efficient electric alternative like a heat pump.
The State Government claims that electric hot water systems will drive down energy bills, saving households around $330 a year, or $520 with solar.
“Electric hot water systems are also often cheaper up front than gas systems, with rebates available from the Labor Government’s Victorian Energy Upgrades and Solar Victoria programs of up to $1,400,” according to the media release.
Gas hot water systems can still be repaired if they break down. Gas systems can also be temporarily removed and reinstalled during renovations.
properties and public housing.
Hot water systems must be replaced with efficient heat pumps at the end of life, which will save up to $220 every year, according to the State Government.
Gas heaters at the end of their life must be replaced with reverse-cycle air conditioners, estimated to save up to $215 every year.
A minimum 4-star Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rated shower head must be installed at the start of a new lease, estimated to save renters up to $38 every year.
Minimum R5.0 rating ceiling insulation must be installed at the start of a new lease where there is no ceiling insulation already in place, estimated to save around $450 every year.
Draught sealing, including weather seals on all external doors, windows and wall vents, must be installed at the start of a new lease, estimated to save over $110 every year.
Main living areas are already required to have heating. Additionally, from 1 March 2027, at the start of a new lease, main living areas must also have an efficient electric cooling system. Installing a reverse-cycle air conditioner will acquit both the heating and cooling requirements.
er,” Evans said. “To be recognised in memory of someone so respected in education is incredibly meaningful. It was a complete surprise and a very special moment in my career.”
Evans credits both her students and the welcoming professional environment at Clyde Grammar for the success she’s enjoyed.
“There’s something truly special about the energy and curiosity young students bring to the classroom. I strive to create a space where every child feels welcome, supported and excited to learn. When students feel happy and safe, they’re more likely to flourish,” Evans said. “I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of this school community. Every teacher is supportive and kind, and that sense of camaraderie makes all the difference. It really does feel like a little Clyde family.”
Bellamie was strongly supported by Clyde Grammar Principal Leanne Evans.
“Bellamie embodies the values we hold dear at Clyde Grammar. Her passion for teaching, thoughtful practice and deep care for her students make her a truly deserving recipient of this award,” said Leanne.
There are no changes to heating for owner-occupiers, and gas cooking in existing homes.
Electrification of new builds
From 1 January, 2027, all new homes will be built all-electric. All new commercial buildings (other than industrial, manufacturing and agricultural buildings) will also be required to be built all-electric.
According to the State Government, the electrification will put around $880 per year back in the pockets of new homeowners, or $1,820 if they have solar.
There are no changes to the rules regarding end-of-life replacement for gas appliances in all existing commercial buildings.
The use of LPG for households or businesses is also unchanged.
New energy standards for rentals
From 1 March 2027, new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards will apply to rental
Every single upgrade a property may need under the new minimum efficiency standards is eligible for a discount under the Victorian Energy Upgrades program. Exemptions also apply, including if installation costs are too high or if there is not enough space.
The State Government states that the rental standards have been set following extensive consultation to make sure they are achievable and keep costs affordable for rental providers.
Liberal Nationals released a media release, claiming that the gas reforms were not affordable, as power companies like AusNet had warned that the agenda would increase infrastructure costs, driving up bills for households already under pressure.
Shadow Minister for Energy and Resources David Davis said the Premier’s latest announcement was nothing more than a deception. “If re-elected, Labor will kill household gas choice. Their so-called “transition” is more expensive, more unstable, and unreliable, undermining public and commercial confidence and threatening Victoria’s energy and commercial security,” he said.
Bellamie Evans, who was awarded the prestigious Peter McRae Meyer Prize. (Redbook Photography)
The State Government has announced new measures to cut gas use. (Unsplash: Martin Adams)
‘Act now’ on sustainability
By Violet Li
As the State Government’s Landfill Levy will go up by about 30 per cent in the coming new financial year, a local waste management expert is sharing sustainable practices for Casey businesses to reduce waste and lower operational costs.
Jason Styles, director of local business Ecotrans, attended the Innovate Casey this month to speak at the Waste Smart Business session.
The session delved into innovative ways Casey businesses were reducing waste, lowering operational costs, and embracing more sustainable practices.
It showcased real-life examples of how going green could also make great business sense.
Ecotrans is a construction waste and site cleaning provider, which won the Casey Business Awards Environmental Sustainability Practices Award in 2023.
Mr Styles said that between now and the next 10 days is the best time for businesses to think about how to reduce waste and lower operational costs, as he cited the news that the State Government Landfill Levy would go up on 1 July from $129.27 to $169.79 per tonne for municipal and industrial waste in the metropolitan area.
The first thing he would suggest is to create a measurable target, which is what he does in his business.
“My advice would be to just start somewhere. Let’s say it’s cardboard or let’s say it’s plastic. You just set one target for one week and see if that’s achievable, rather than flood yourself with all these ideas,” he said.
“Set one idea, something that’s manageable, and something that you can measure. Depending on your business, pick a waste stream and focus on one waste stream.
“It can be simple, and just try and remove that from your waste.
“I’m picking a plumber’s here, Polypipe is recyclable, cardboard’s recyclable, your bricks and concrete are recyclable when they’re separate.
So, I guess it’s something to look at, that each of those items is a recyclable resource when they’re separate, but when they’re commingled, they go to landfills.”
He also said consultants were not always a must.
“You don’t have to engage consultants. Consultants can be good, but the information can be found everywhere,” he said.
“I would discourage using consultants and encourage taking one step at a time.”
Mr Styles said the biggest challenge for businesses to implement waste-smart practices is the laziness to seek the information.
“I think the challenge is laziness amongst employees. I guess it’s the movement amongst the
managers and directors to say, hey, we’re doing it and sticking to doing it,” he said.
“When the cost of waste increases, there becomes a bigger need to recycle or create some better waste streams. That’s the incentive behind putting the price up.
“The challenge is literally just starting.”
Innovate Casey, hosted by Casey Council on Thursday 12 June, aims to showcase and celebrate innovative sustainability initiatives within the community and local businesses.
The event this year also had an Energy Smart Business session that talked about how businesses could save on electricity bills by adopting smart energy-efficient solutions. Experts shared how technology and simple operational changes
could significantly reduce energy waste and improve bottom lines.
Casey’s Climate Action Living Lab partners were also invited to discuss cutting-edge methods to tackle climate change and support biodiversity, community safety, and renewable energy.
Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen with Climate Action Living Lab partners.
Jason Styles, director of local business Ecotrans, attended the Innovate Casey last Thursday to speak at the Waste Smart Business session. (Supplied)
Innovate Casey forum.
by
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at: 59, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31, 33, 35, 37, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47, 49 , 53, 55, 57, 61, Tomatina Way BERWICK VIC 3806 Lot 1909, Lot 1910, Lot 1911, Lot 1912, Lot 1913, Lot 1914, Lot 1915, Lot 1916, Lot 1917, Lot 1918, Lot 1919, Lot 1920, Lot 1921, Lot 1922, Lot 1923, Lot 1924, Lot 1925, Lot 1926, Lot 1927, Lot 1928, Lot 1929, Lot 1974 and Lot 1975 PS 816058T
The application is for a permit to: Pursuant to Section 52(1AA) of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, as the application is made for a permit to vary a registered restrictive covenant, the responsible authority must give notice of the application in a prescribed form: (a). by placing a sign on the land which is the subject
WHAT’S ON
Rainbow Trivia Night
7pm - 9pm Friday 27 June
Rainbow Trivia combines the thrill of a pub quiz with the fabulousness of drag culture. Our fabulous hosts, Della Katessen and Miss Bobbee Pinn, will showcase a dazzling display of costumes, makeup, and performances as they test your knowledge on a variety of topics. Join us for an evening filled with fierce fun, fabulous performance, and awesome prizes! BYO drinks and nibbles. Recommended for mature audiences.
• Find out more and purchase tickets: trybooking. com/events/landing/1367792
Queers in Concert
4pm & 8pm Saturday 28 June
Following two years of sold-out sparkle at the Winter Arts Festival, this beloved celebration of LGBTQ+ excellence is hitting the stage once more with a night of fierce talent, unfiltered joy, and unapologetic queerness.
• Find out more and purchase tickets: bunjilplace. com.au/events/queers-of-concert-0
Bakhtar Community Organisation
Bakhtar Community Organisation, in partnership with AFL Victoria, presents Casey Community Connect, a free program designed to introduce young people from our multicultural communities to Australian Rules Football.
Join us for our launch events on Saturday 28 June and Saturday 5 July at Gunns Road Reserve, Hallam. Enjoy a fun, family-friendly environment where young participants can come and try the game.
Those who attend will have the chance to access 8–10 free training sessions with professional AFL Victoria coaches. Don’t miss out!
Casey Winter Arts Festival
Time: 20 June - 20 July
In 2025, we are inviting you to “Cozy up” at the Winter Arts Festival and get to know the talented local artists who make our community shine. Whether it’s exploring exhibitions and demonstrations, enjoying a live show, or participating in hands-on workshops, this festival invites you to experience the rich variety of artistic expressions that make our local arts scene so unique. Theatre companies, artists, crafters, dancers, community groups, venues and libraries are hosting an exciting range of events and activities for people of all ages, so join us and discover the diverse voices shaping our creative landscape.
• To see the programs, visit: casey.vic.gov.au/winter-arts-festival
Balla Balla Community Centre
Morning Melodies Are you young at heart, looking for some company, or just want to enjoy a lovely morning out? Join us at Morning Melodies for heartwarming performances
filled with the songs you know and love!
Enjoy live entertainment, a cuppa, and a freshly baked scone with jam and cream - all while making new friends along the way.
• Book early to secure your spot! You won’t want to miss this uplifting morning of music and connection. Morning Melodies is held on 2nd Tuesday each month and bookings can be made online www.balla.balla.com.au or by phoning 5990 0900
U3A Cranbourne
20 - 22 Bowen Street, Cranbourne
We are a social group for people over 50 with many interesting and creative activities. We have recently started a garden group as we have lovely gardens where we can plant vegetables, herbs and flowers and enjoy a tea or coffee outdoors when the weather is nice.
We also have lots of art and craft groups, calligraphy, scrabble, singing for fun, quilling, resin making, and card making are popular classes.
On Thursday afternoons from 1 - 3pm we have a lively group of table tennis players. New players welcome, no past experience needed, come along and join in the fun.
We run a beginner ukulele and guitar group. Ray leads the ukulele group, and Maurie assists our beginner guitar group on Monday mornings.
We are a not-for-profit group, assisted by Casey Council to run our programs. Our membership fee of $50 per year entitles you to join as many classes as you wish. Line dancing is held at Clyde Public Hall on Monday mornings, and a gold coin donation covers hire of this venue.
• Check out all our classes at www.u3acranbourne.org.au or phone 0493 991 919 for more information
U3A Casey – Line Dancing
Calling all seniors to give our popular Line Dancing class a try.
Improve your coordination, balance and memory while enjoying great music and meeting lovely people in a happy class.
There is no stress, just fun, with all levels most welcome.
After your first try-out, U3A membership is $60 (Jan to Dec) or $30 (July to Dec) to continue with Line Dancing or to take part in any of our other 75 classes.
Cost: $5.00 per session
When: Fridays from 10.00 am to 12.00 pm
Where: Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris St, Lynbrook.
• Enquiries: Visit our website at www.u3acasey. org.au. Phone our office on 0493 280 458 Men’s Shed Junction Village Inc.
The Men’s Shed provides a facility for men’s mental health where men can come and enjoy each other’s company in a non-judgmental environment. Men are able to share ideas and life experiences, plus learn new skills which benefit themselves and the local community.
Our members are proud of their efforts in producing wooden toys to donate to the Salvation Army Toy Fund. However, making wooden toys is not a requirement of membership, and you can make your own projects if you prefer.
Retired men are most welcome to visit the Shed and have a chat/cuppa to check out our fully equipped Shed (lots of “toys” to play with!) and see what we do for the community. They do not need any woodwork experience as Shed members are happy to pass on their experience in an enjoyable and friendly atmosphere.
Shed members can also be seen cooking a sausage at Bunnings, displaying our projects at Botanic Ridge Village, or heading off to visit other sheds around the state (All good fun!)
• We are located at 41 Craig Road, Junction Village and open on Mondays from 9.00 am to 11.30 am and Wednesdays and Fridays from 9.00 am to 2.30 pm.
• For more information and a tour of our Shed, contact Garry on 0408 141 734.
Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club Community Day - Social Day - Cuppa, games and chat - Lunch included. 11am-3pm, Friday 4th July.
Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club meets weekly for a range of different events, including bus trips, community days, games, coffee and chat, bingo, dancing and carpet bowls.
Not a member? Doesn’t matter, come along and join the fun.
• Weekly activity times - Line Dancing Mon.10am12pm, New Vogue and Old Time Dance Tue. 1pm3:30pm, Carpet Bowls Wed. & Sat. 11:30am2:30pm, Bingo Thur. 11am-2pm.
• For all enquiries or bookings contact Marilyn mobile 0432 107 590.
• Find us on facebook https://www.facebook. com/groups/487808127399953
Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre
Sewing Classes – Thursdays during school terms9:30-11:30am - Learn the basics of sewing and make bags and simple garments. Sew for charity. - $5 per session.
Conversational English Classes – Thursdays 9.30am-11.30am during school terms - Come along to practice and improve your English skills in a relaxed environment comfortable, casual classes with a friendly, patient tutor - $5 per class. Intermediate Computers for Work - Thursdays during school terms 1-4pm - Build on your current computer skills and learn workplace apps such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook email – Contact us for fee information.
Thee Coffee Table - Welcoming women’s community group - Every Friday - 11am-2pm - Free Career & Employment Counselling for Job Seekers – alternate Wednesdays starting 7th May 9:00 am – 1:00 pm - Career counsellors from Chisholm Skills and Jobs Centre are available to work with you on writing your resume, support you to apply for jobs or help you identify your next steps in looking for work. Fortnightly by appointment – Free New Day Care Hours - NOW OPEN - 9am until 3pm. We have spots available in our nurturing and fun Day Care, which prioritises the well-being and growth of every child. Children from 2 months to 5 years can now attend from 9am until 3pm up to 5 days a week.
• Call 03 5996 9056 or email mpcs@merindapark.com.au for more information or to register your child.
• Volunteers are welcome to come and help maintain our community garden
• All the above are held at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre, 141 - 147 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North 3977
• For more information and bookings, call - 5996 9056
Foxes stars shining bright
By Jonty Ralphsmith
The list of accolades is ever growing for Narre North Foxes duo Lily Brittain and Ella Bologa.
The two 16-year-olds, both part of Melbourne’s Next Generation Academy (NGA), have been dominating local footy for several years, with both training with Dandenong Stingrays U18s squad in recent weeks to take their footy to the next level.
Brittain debuted for the Stingrays on Sunday, collecting 11 disposals on the wing, while Bologa is on the cusp of selection.
“There was some opportunity to bring some players through and Lily played some really good under-16s footy and Vic Country footy and through training, she’s been super consistent and has shown poise and composure when we’re doing competitive stuff and has been really clean,” Stingrays coach Nathan Boyd said of her selection. It follows under-16s All Australian selection for both following a strong championships for Vic Country, with the aggressive Bologa named in the back pocket after growing into a defensive role, while the speedy Brittain was named on the interchange bench following a standout carnival as an inside midfielder.
Both also shone in the AFL’s recent showcase of the best Indigenous and Multicultural pathway talent. Brittain has Indigenous heritage on both sides of her family, while Bologa’s Mum is Filipino. Last year, both played V/Line Cup representative footy, with Brittain captaining the side, a role she also holds at Foxes where she won the 2024 best and fairest, while Bologa came runner up in both the club and league best and fairest.
“It’s really cool, we’ve been exposed to bigger bodies, much more talent than local footy so we’ve been exposed to a more professional environment,” Bologa said of the benefits of representative footy.
“It has taught us a lot about the standard and how we need to train to get to the next level.”
Bologa is the cousin of former Hawthorn Category B rookie Josh Bennetts, with injuries impacting his time on the Hawks list as he was unable to break through for a game across his two seasons at the club.
“I’m very close to Josh,” Bologa said.
“Ever since I was little, I’ve watched him and wanted to be like him.
“He’s probably the reason I got into footy, because I was hanging around him so he’s been a good mentor to learn off.
“I was the only girl (in the family) and would hang out with my older brother and cousin and they would toughen me up a bit.
“I’ve always kicked the footy with them and they’ve helped me with my skills.
“It’s been harsh on him with injuries and delisted so it’s taught me that your spot isn’t always secure – you have to always keep trying and pushing yourself to be the best because anything could happen and your career could so easily change.”
The pair’s immersion into Melbourne’s NGA has informed them of what life at the next level could look like, with AFLW a distant driving goal for both girls, who will be eligible for the 2027 draft.
“We got to do little activities with the AFLW girls so we hung out with them a few times out of Melbourne Academy so we just learned (what) a day in the life (looks like) and how their trainings go,” Brittain said.
“It’s very full on but looks enjoyable and you’re around your teammates all day.”
The experience has been particularly surreal for Bologa, who models her game on Dees NGA coach Tyla Hanks.
“I’ve learned a lot off her because she’s pretty similar to my height and position so I’ve taken a leaf out of her book every time I watch her play,” Bologa said.
“I ask her lots of questions and she’s obviously there to give us lots of feedback and teach us things that we need to learn.”
As for their next step?
“I think to keep improving as an athlete,” Bologa said.
“There’s always little things to keep improving and I think I just need to find a way to work on that to be the best athlete I can be and embrace every position I get put in.
Brittain adds: “Getting better and not letting other people’s opinions bring me down, so keep pushing myself.
“It would be massive if we could get to AFLW level.
“It would definitely set up a life for us as well –playing good football is the main goal.”
Impressive 16 local girls selected in Vic Country squad
By Jonty Ralphsmith
A whopping 13 of the 23 players to turn out in Vic Country’s first game of the Under-18 Girls National Championships were locals.
Seven Dandenong Stingrays and six Gippsland Power players were in the team, while a further three locals - Rebecca Fitzpatrick, Evelyn Connolly and Charlotte Gilmore - were in the squad but did not play.
Vic Country proved far too strong for the Allies, getting up 10.6(66) to 2.8(20) at Trevor Barker Beach Oval, Sandringham, on Sunday.
Of the Stingrays, the Brothwell twins, Mizuki and Nalu, shone brightest with 16 possessions apiece, continuing to take strides with their footy by performing at every new level they’re exposed to.
Mizuki was among the best on ground, while Nalu kicked her team’s only goal of the last quarter from a quick transition.
Dandenong ruck Sophie White and Gippsland’s Maya Crestani arguably got the better of highly regarded Allies tall Maddie Quinn, finishing with 21 and 24 hitouts respectively.
“The girls did a job in terms of neutralising her strength of getting the ball to their zones,” Dandenong Stingrays coach Nathan Boyd said.
“Both ‘Soph’ and Maya jumped in consistently and were pretty stoic in the way they competed and both spent time forward.
“The way they approached not getting into a wrestle with her, and instead trying to jump early and jump over her, was fantastic and it equated to us getting an advantage in clearances after the first 10 minutes.”
Alice Cunnington. Disappointingly, Geurts injured her knee in a tackle in the first five minutes of the game, so
sat of most of the contest, though early indications suggest a minor injury.
For Gippsland, bolter Baia Pugh was arguably the most impressive, continuing her rapid rise, entering 2025 with limited footy exposure off the back of an athletics background.
“She’s a high-end athlete – she’s put her nose to the grind to work on her footy and there’s still a lot of upside,” Gippsland talent lead Scott McDougal said.
“Her aggression and tackling and ability to impact one-on-ones is fantastic for someone who hasn’t played a lot of footy.”
Pakenham’s Abby Hobson was a key target inside 50, finishing with two first half goals in her first game back from a fractured eye socket.
Ella Stoddart also played a strong game, providing her usual energy and rebound with 17 disposals, while bottom-ager Grace Dillow showed glimpses to finish with 11 disposals and three clearances and Chelsea Sutton’s rise continued, collecting 11 disposals and laying three tackles.
“She’s had niggles in recent years but she’s focusing in and letting her footy do the talking,” McDougal said.
“She’s got a high footy IQ and knows how to win her groundballs and puts teammates in better positions with her hands.”
Lily Brittain and Ella Bologa have been dominant for Narre North Foxes in recent times. (Stewart Chambers: 484931)
Both girls are part of Melbourne’s NGA.
Other Stingrays in action included the hard working Lilian Snow, rebounder Ruby Geurts, and bottom-aged pair Matilda Argus and
Locals in Vic Country squad: Grace Dillow, Baia Pugh, Chelsea Sutton, Ruby Geurts, Matilda Argus, Alice Cunnington, Charlotte Gilmore, Lily Snow, Ella Stoddart, Rebecca Fitzpatrick, Evelyn Connolly, Nalu Brothwell, Mizuki Brothwell, Maya Crestani, Abby Hobson, Sophie White.
Abby Hobson was one of 13 locals in action on Sunday for Vic Country (Scott Sidley/AFL Photos: 486145)
Youthful Bulls finding form
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Noble Park made it back-to-back wins on Saturday with a big second quarter lifting it to a 12.11(83) to 7.13(55) victory over South Croydon.
The Bulls scored the only five goals of the second quarter to pull away from the visitors at Pat Wright Oval in an otherwise tightly-fought contest.
The victory over eighth-placed South Croydon follows a win over fifth-placed Doncaster East, which has the Bulls sitting just percentage outside the top five despite an inconsistent first two months of the season.
“We’ve played some good footy- there has been effort and endeavour in nine out of nine games,” Bulls’ coach Steve Hughes enthused.
“Probably some structure stuff is really starting to take shape so we’re getting dividends in win-loss in the last few weeks which was really pleasing.
“It was a great defensive effort against Doncaster East and then our second quarter on Saturday broke the game open with some better ball patterns and movement and we put enough of a gap on the scoreboard to get the win.”
Coming up against teams with dominant key forwards has been a challenge, with East Ringwood spearhead Riley Weatherill exposing the lack of height earlier in the year with a six-goal haul against the Bulls.
But Noble Park appeared to take a step forward in that regard against Doncaster East, with league-leading goal kicker and former AFL player Josh Schache kept to three goals by Dean Jones.
“I think for us, it’s known we don’t have a lot of height so we’ve had to implement things from a team perspective where we’re trying to ensure that our key defenders who are quite small aren’t hung out to dry by some high-quality key forwards in the competition,” Hughes said.
“That’s a product of team defence and how we get the ball back and how much pressure we put on up the field.”
With the well-publicised departures of stars Kyle Martin and Jackson Sketcher in the off-season, coupled with newly-minted skipper Ben Marson’s injury in round one, former VFL player Lochie McDonnell’s experience has been important.
He has been well supported by Mitch Riordan, Kevin Kean and Jordan Marsden as the younger squad starts to make their mark at senior level.
Defender Josh Tour’s consistency in 2025 has also been critical, named in the best in six of his seven games.
“He’s been fantastic this year,” Hughes said.
“He’s previously been known as a really good lockdown defender but this year his role has ex-
EASTERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE PREMIER REVIEW - ROUND 9
panded a little bit and he’s been able to get off opponents and support other contests in the air and he’s executed it well in recent weeks.”
The Bulls also had Ariek Lual in the backline on the weekend, playing just his second game in the Eastern League in 2025, having turned out for VFL side Casey four times in between a facial fracture.
Fellow VFL listed Noble Park player Matt Nelson was influential on the weekend, kicking three goals as he looks to break into Frankston’s lineup.
“He played close to his best game on Saturday as a forward which is difficult for his size,” Hughes said.
“Some of the time he’s playing on some of the best key defenders in the competition, which is challenging, but he’s playing his role well and we
threw him up onto the wing for a period on Saturday which kick-started him a little bit.
“He’s a dangerous player with his speed.”
The Bulls face a sterner challenge against third-placed Rowville this weekend .
“We need to build consistency – we’ve still got things we need to work on,” Hughes said.
“Our fluctuations within games is not where it needs to be.
“We need to put together more four-quarter performances but most importantly, I’m really happy with the effort and energy and the boys are having a lot of fun.”
Meanwhile, Berwick was upstaged by the winless Mitcham 14.13(97) to 10.12(72), missing a golden opportunity to get its second victory of the season.
The Tigers pulled away in a five-goal-to-two last term despite the best efforts of Daniel Pinter, Jai Neal, Joshua Burgmann, James McLean, Benzhamen Todd and Tom Brennan.
Results: Noble Park 12.11(83) v South Croydon 7.13(55), Balwyn 21.16(142) v Vermont 9.7(61), Mitcham 14.13(97) v Berwick 10.12(72), East Ringwood 8.11(59) v Rowville 13.10(88), Blackburn 17.9(111) v Doncaster East 14.6(90). Ladder: East Ringwood 32, Blackburn 32, Rowville 24, Balwyn 24, Doncaster East 16, Vermont 16, Noble Park 16, South Croydon 12, Berwick 4, Mitcham 4
Fixture: South Croydon (8) v East Ringwood (1), Vermont (6) v Mitcham (10), Noble Park (7) v Rowville (3), Berwick (9) v Doncaster East (5), Balwyn (4) v Blackburn (2).
Small forward Brough stands tall in one-point triumph
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Beaconsfield flipped the script.
After succumbing to a heartbreaking onepoint loss to Park Orchards off the back of a fourth-quarter fadeout last weekend, the Eagles got up by the same margin in a come-from-behind win on Saturday against North Ringwood.
The 11.6(72) to 10.11(71) result is a necessary win for Beaconsfield, which dropped its last two games, weakening its grip on third position in the Eastern Football Netball League Division 1 competition.
Trailing by 16 points midway through the last quarter, after conceding three of the first four goals of the term, Beaconsfield stormed home by kicking the last three goals of the game.
Poetically, after falling behind at the 21-minute-mark last Saturday in its last-gasp loss, that was precisely the time Hayden Brough scored his fourth major to give the visitors a lead they wouldn’t surrender.
“The guys have got a really strong belief,” coach Mick Fogarty said.
“The trends of the game change.
“When the opposition have their way, the most important thing is to restrict their ability to put scoreboard pressure on.
“That’s something we’re working really hard to do.
EASTERN FOOTBALL
“Over the last couple of weeks, teams have had an 8-10 minute period where they’ve been able to do that.
“What was pleasing was they put scoreboard
pressure on in the last quarter but we were able to counteract that by having some really good forward entries.“
Brough was a significant contributor to the
comeback, coming to life in the last term and seizing his moments, with three of his four majors coming after the last break.
“Hayden has enormous ability and we know he can turn a game like that – he has shown it in the past,” Fogarty said.
“It’s good reward for him playing a hard role as an opportunist forward.
“We know he’s such a beautiful kick and for a small guy he has a terrific aerial game as well and he finished his work off and gave the team an opportunity to win.”
The Eagles have a bye this weekend before facing ladder-leaders South Belgrave. EASTERN DIVISION 1
R10: North Ringwood 10.11(71) v Beaconsfield 10.12(72), Bayswater 4.3(27) v Montrose 10.14(74), Norwood 8.1(49) v Mooroolbark 11.9(75), Park Orchards 12.8(80) v South Belgrave 23.18(156).
Ladder: South Belgrave 36, Park Orchards 28, Beaconsfield 24, Boronia 20, Montrose 16, North Ringwood 16,
12,
ter 8,
0
Mooroolbark
Bayswa-
Norwood
Fixture R11: Boronia (4) v Bayswater (9), Park Orchards (2) v Montrose (5), Mooroolbark (8) v North Ringwood (7), South Belgrave (1) v Norwood (10). Bye: Beaconsfield (3).
Hayden Brough delivered down the stretch for Beaconsfield. (Rob Carew: 406516)
Lochie McDonnell has been acting skipper of Noble Park in 2025. (Rob Carew: 403696)
