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Danyal Diallo spoke about the importance of constructive conversations amid the postponement of a community youth event because of the rallies scheduled for 31 August. (Supplied: Danyal Diallo)
Safety comes first By Ethan Benedicto A Casey youth community group has postponed its Cranbourne North event due to safety fears, as anti-immigration rallies under the “March for Australia” banner gear up nationwide. The gathering, originally planned for Sunday, 31 August, to focus on alcohol and drug awareness, was called off.
The closest planned rally is set to take place in Melbourne’s CBD. Organisers cited concern for vulnerable young people, with local author and public speaker Danyal Diallo stressing that safety came first. Diallo, who has built his work around cultural awareness and breaking stereotypes, warned that while some concerns about immigration may be genuine, they are being amplified by misinforma-
tion and fear. He argued that immigration has long enriched Australia’s economy and identity, and called instead for constructive, respectful dialogue. The planned rallies have raised alarm after extremist groups attempted to align themselves with the movement, even as organisers distanced themselves from neo-Nazi figures. For Diallo, the challenge lies in creating spaces
where communities can address real issues, from housing affordability to job security, without resorting to divisive rhetoric. He urged residents to choose conversation over confrontation, saying community organisations play a vital role in fostering belonging and understanding. For the full story, turn to page 2
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Postponed amid concerns By Ethan Benedicto Fears of safety have prompted the organisers of a youth community outreach group to postpone their event on Sunday, 31 August, as swathes of anti-immigration rallies ramp up across Australia. Despite being roughly an hour away from the closest planned rally in Melbourne CBD, Danyal Diallo, a Casey author and public speaker associated with the community organisation, said that while he understood the frustrations about the impact of immigration, he is deeply concerned about the approach that is being taken. “I believe it’s essential to approach these discussions with empathy and a nuance of understanding of the complexity involved,” he said. He added that immigration continues to be a strong driving force for Australia, one that is ingrained in the country’s history, identity, and one that “continues to enrich our culture, economy and communities”. “While I acknowledge that some people may have legitimate concerns about the pace of change or the changes that come with integration, I worry that these protests might be fueled by misinformation and stereotypes,” he said. The rallies Diallo is referring to revolve around the ‘March for Australia’ protests, which the SBS described, quoting the marches’ organisers, as an end to “mass migration” and a reclamation of Australian identity. With requests to remain anonymous, Diallo said that the group and its organisers had planned an alcohol and drug awareness event to be held in Cranbourne North, with goals to raise awareness, especially for vulnerable youths. Diallo himself centres his conversations around five key aspects, those being: cultural awareness, breaking stereotypes, mental health and self-care, fulfilling a social purpose, and finding where to begin. “At the end of the day, safety is our priority; when we see things like this happening in the community, we reassess and reconvene at a later date,” Diallo said. On the rallies’ organiser website, their ‘About’ page runs the slogan ‘Our Future, Our Fight’, adding that Australian streets have seen “growing displays of anti-Australian hatred, foreign conflicts, and disintegrating trust, whilst mass migration has torn at the bonds that held our communities together”. Key rallies have been planned throughout the country, from Flinders Street Station in Melbourne, Belmore Park in Sydney, Roma Street Parklands in Brisbane, Anzac Memorial Park in Townsville, Salamanca Lawns in Hobart, and the Civic Centre in Darwin. Diallo, who in 2019 held a TEDx presentation on breaking down stereotypes, said that “a lot” of the concerns start with misinformation, something he feels is bolstering the planned rallies. “It’s crucial to recognise the contributions that immigrants make to our society, from creating businesses and jobs to enriching our culture and diversity,” he said. “I’d like to see more constructive conversations about how we can work together to ad-
Danyal Diallo with his book, titled Rising from the Rooftop, which tells the story of his journey of recovery, both mentally and physically, after being thrown off a rooftop and dislocating his hip. (Supplied) dress the real challenges facing our communities, such as housing affordability, job security, and access to health care. “By engaging in respectful and informed dialogue, I believe we can build a more inclusive and compassionate society that benefits everyone.” The SBS article, published on 14 August, delved into the background of the marches, and while it remains unclear as to who exactly is behind the movement, extremists such as Thomas Sewell, leader of the neo-Nazi Nationalist Socialist Network, had allegedly tried to claim the march as his group’s event. The group, on their official Instagram page, had distanced themselves from such figures, with a spokesperson telling the SBS that the “attempts to hijack March for Australia for other issues, or to make it about any one group, are not in the spirit of the movement that we have taken custody of”.
A week prior to the article’s publish date, Sewell led a group of masked neo-Nazis through Melbourne’s CBD just after midnight; Sewell was also among the group of neo-Nazis during the lake gathering at Berwick Springs Lake / Guru Nanak Lake in November 2024. However, instead of rash actions, Diallo emphasised the importance of constructive conversations, saying that he loves “the idea of the community getting together and workshopping issues”. “I think that’s such a wholesome view on how we can sit together and actually talk through the issues that are of concern to us, rather than going on the street with limited or misinformation,” he said. When asked if he thought the protests were a loud minority, he said that there is a high chance they are, but nevertheless remained steadfast that their concerns are valid and must be addressed in a balanced manner.
Diallo further said that the works of community organisations, such as the one he is a part of, play an important role in “informing others within the community”. “They educate and ensure that newly arrived immigrants are well, because as an immigrant escaping or coming from a country where there was war, then coming to Australia, which is more peaceful, could take some adjustment. “So getting into a community organisation that focuses on education and running workshops throughout the year provides a good sense of belonging and community to newly arrived individuals. “And for those who have been fuelled by misinformation, I highly and strongly encourage a constructive conversation and even encourage them to come visit and sit down with a community organisation, I think that’s where it starts,” he said.
‘Absolutely important’: Neighbourhood policing forum held By Ethan Benedicto A neighbourhood crime forum was held in Bunjil Place on Thursday, 21 August, as residents expressed their concern about different levels of crime. Likewise, it was an opportunity for Victoria Police to provide a comprehensive overview of key topics, such as family violence, youth crime, road safety, and key statistics in the City of Casey. Stuart Richards, Casey’s local area commander inspector, said that holding these forums, where open conversations are encouraged and where local residents become part of the solution, “is absolutely important”. “We see ourselves as servants of the community, and the issue we have is that a lot of the time, when people are involved with the police, they are actually victims of crime and
2 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 28 August, 2025
are impacted on a personal level. “So it’s helpful to have the people here when they could have been a victim in the past, but also to just bring things up that might have occurred then.” Richards further emphasised the fact that open forums provide key information for residents who may not be entirely aware of what crime in their area looks like. At the same time, officers encouraged residents throughout the night that, either during intermissions or in the final hour of the forum, to mingle, “grab a blue shirt” and have a chat. “We know we’re not perfect, we get that, and I think the community to a certain extent accepts that as well,” Richards said. “But we also rely on the community to make us better.” There were just over 100 people in the
gallery, consisting of residents and community organisation representatives, all eager for their voices to be heard and their questions answered. Casey’s councillors were also in attendance, hearing questions from Cr Kim Ross on youth crime and statistics, and questions from Cr Scott Dowling on property damage, as well as burglaries and break-ins. Mayor Stefan Koomen, alongside deputy mayor Melinda Ambros, both said that not only was the turnout amazing, but also the fact that “it’s great to give residents the opportunity to speak directly with police”. “To talk about community, because we know it’s one of the top priorities for our local residents,” Koomen said. Ambros added that being present, and “showing that we’re all working together is key when individual guest stakeholders
come together, from the residents, to the police, to the council and members of parliament, having that sense of awareness”. “Even some of the groups that have those connections in local communities have that chance to hear what’s going on, to get the right advice, and to know how best we can support one another,” she said. Reflecting on the topics covered and the conversations that were had, Koomen said that working together remains a priority, and is how the “best results” can be achieved in terms of safety, cohesiveness, awareness and more. “We have to put our resident issues forward, and that’s what we’re here to do; we also want to work with the police to see if there are opportunities for the council to be involved,” he said.
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Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen, alongside Akoonah Ward Cr Scott Dowling, in Berwick Main Street’s middle strip, where both are looking to host events this Christmas season. (Ethan Benedicto: 498447_01)
Mayor Koomen and Cr Dowling with Lina, from Little Black Bag, someone who has been outspoken about bringing more celebratory decorations and activities to Berwick. (Ethan Benedicto: 498447_02)
Funds unwrap festive spirit By Ethan Benedicto With only 17 Fridays left before Christmas, the holiday spirit is brewing in Berwick, following the $25,000 fund granted for the suburb’s Main Street to be decked from the halls to the rooftops with tinsel and more. The City of Casey, during its 19 August meeting, agreed on a split budget of $50,000 between Berwick’s and Cranbourne’s Main Streets for a pilot program, one aimed at decoration, community, and the cheeriness of holiday spirit. Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, acknowledged Cr Scott Dowling’s passion for bringing the holiday spirit back to Berwick since before his election, but also highlighted the importance of the council’s decision to ultimately recognise the importance of the two former shires, and their centrality to Casey’s fringes. “We want to recognise both, so we’ve got the [former] Berwick and Cranbourne Shires coming together to make Casey, and with the two main streets, we thought nothing better than bringing back some colour and some tinsel for
Christmas,” he said. “We all know how beautiful central Berwick is, and come Christmas time, we can make it something special, but we’ve decided to pay some respect to the history and split it amongst the two.” Councillor for Akoonah Ward and a long-time Berwick local, Dowling said that it was good to see an even distribution and a good step forward for emphasis on community-centric events and occasions in the near future. “Traders and shoppers alike can look forward ot an exciting, vibrant Christmas as the community reconnects with the spirit of the season,” he said. “This is going to benefit everyone, and what I’d also like to see is people getting involved, lighting their houses up again like they used to. “People used to go for drives around Berwick to have a look at the streets, but now it’s all dark, so staying local and being here would be nice.” Koomen and Dowling took to Berwick’s Main Street on Monday morning, speaking to local traders about what they would like to see happen this Christmas season.
Lina, from Little Black Bag, said that speaking from a trader’s perspective, “Christmas is the biggest trade time of the year”. “We just want people back in Berwick, basically, to increase the traffic flow, and to bring back that atmosphere that we used to have. “Everyone would grab a cuppa, have a bit of a shop, it was all about that, and of course Christmas makes you happy, especially for the kids,” she said. Speaking on the $25,000 fund and the pilot program, she said that Berwick “needed it”, and that “festivity and the community awareness around it”, remains an integral piece in the overall growth and sustenance of Berwick as a town. Across the road at the Departure Lounge, both Tracey and Lauren were all for the pilot program, both eager to see the street covered in decor and people. Lauren said that having the council’s backing of the initiative, as well as a dedicated budget for it, is “good for the community”. “It’s also good for all ages, all the families, and we’ve missed the last few years of Berwick look-
ing pretty and lit up,” she said. Tracey, who is a Bunyip local, said that her hometown has a lovely and established Christmas feeling, and that seeing something similar, and something unique to Berwick, would be more than a welcome addition to the town. Reflecting on the possible impact that a Christmas-themed event could have, she said that it could expand to fostering that spirit, not just in Main Street, but throughout the whole suburb as well. “You could do something where every trader has a Christmas postcard, and then you go around Main Street to get them stamped, and whoever has the most would get a prize,” she said. “Then, hopefully, as it grows, it can send the message that maybe you don’t really need to go anywhere else to do your shopping, and that you can get everything you need here.” Growth and prosperity through community is what Cr Dowling is hoping to achieve through these endeavours, with the Christmas decorations a small but essential step in the big journey.
Man in court accused of carjacking, assaulting 91-year-old By Afraa Kori A Wangarrata man accused of assaulting a 91-year-old elderly resident during an alleged aggravated carjacking in Berwick has appeared in court. Police allege a man, identified in court as 26-year-old Wangaratta resident Reece Stewart, was “behaving erratically” before carrying out an aggravated carjacking on 23 August, assaulting a 91-year-old man outside an
aged care facility on Melville Park Drive after 12.30pm. Police say the elderly driver sustained minor injuries and was transported to hospital, while Stewart allegedly fled in the victim’s Ford Forrester. It’s alleged he then drove to High Street, where he crashed the vehicle about 12.45pm before abandoning it and continuing on foot Police claim that Stewart briefly entered a pharmacy and neighbouring business before
fleeing across a Paternoster Lane carpark. He was said to have been arrested on Lyall Road and transported to hospital under police guard. Stewart was charged with aggravated carjacking, recklessly cause injury, burglary, theft of motor vehicle, theft, unlawful assault, reckless conduct endangering life, drive in a manner dangerous and fail to appear on bail. He was remanded in custody and appeared at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on
25 August, where his defence lawyer told the judge that Stewart was taking medication for schizophrenia, suffered from PTSD, and was withdrawing from drugs, including ice and alcohol. The defence lawyer also noted he was experiencing anxiety due to being in custody for the first time. A committal mention has been set for 17 November in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.
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Leader under pressure By Corey Everitt Pressure is mounting on local MP and Opposition Leader Brad Battin after continued decline in opinion polls less than a year since he took the reins of the Liberal Party. Polling by Resolve Political Monitor, commissioned by Nine Newspapers, shows Labor has closed the gap with the Liberal Party to a 32/33 percent split, respectively. When Brad Battin ousted John Pesutto for the leadership in December last year, the Liberal Party enjoyed a lead of 42 per cent over Labor’s low of
22 per cent in preferred party. Last month, a Newspoll survey showed Labor would win the election if held at that time with a 53–47 lead in two-party preferred. This has been accompanied by growing questioning from the metro newsrooms with The Age splashing the new polling on last Wednesday’s front page and the Herald Sun ran a full page column the Friday before by conservative radio host Steve Price where he said Mr Battin was “not cutting through” as a leader and that most Victorians would “struggle to even name him”. The Tuesday following the column saw Mr
Battin appear at the site of an alleged murder in Dandenong where he reportedly spoke to media. The move sparked criticism from the state government which was carried by media attention where Mr Battin responded by doubling down on his initiative and said he will keep attending crime scenes to emphasis Victoria’s crime woes. On Friday, the Herald Sun reported that Liberal MPs are mulling the possibility of a new leadership challenge with one anonymous MP saying an attempt to roll Mr Battin was “inevitable”. Another leadership spill could result in their fifth new leader in just four years.
Early policy announcements under Mr Battin’s leadership have been hampered by party infighting, with key press conferences around such policies as toughening bail laws and slashing stamp duty being derailed by the fallout of the preceding leader, John Pesutto’s defamation case with Moira Deeming and Herald Sun reporting around deputy leader Sam Groth. Despite the turbulence of Mr Battin’s leadership, he is still favoured as preferred Premier over Jacinta Allan, according to Resolve. Mr Pesutto led as preferred Premier at the time that he was deposed as leader.
Battin doubles-down on crime-scene press conference By Cam Lucadou-Wells and Afraa Kori
Brad Battin arrives at the crime scene in Dandenong on Tuesday 19 August. (Gary Sissons: 497109) even compromising a police investigation,” Williams posted. “The consequences of this could be profound. “To put it bluntly, politicians who do this are putting themselves, and their own desire for media attention, ahead of the community’s desire for justice. “They are putting themselves ahead of the important work of Victoria Police. “And they are putting politics ahead of a family’s pain.” Williams listed the Government’s initiatives
4 Beaconsfield Avenue, Beaconsfield 3807 Ph: 03 9707 3111 beaconsfield@sfx.vic.edu.au 4 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 28 August, 2025
including “introducing the toughest bail laws in the country”, Australia’s “first-ever machete ban” and a trial of electronic monitoring of youth offenders. In response, Battin said: “If the Dandenong MP was worried about crime in her area, she would be fighting harder to get the police resources that they desperately need at Dandenong Police Station to ensure that they can have the proactive patrols to stop crime before it happens.” Battin said he’d not received any concerns from the victim’s family.
“The only uproar was the Labor government and their ministers. “Every single message I’ve seen and had sent to me was people saying that it’s about time we stand up and hold this government to account for the crime crisis that’s happening in Victoria.” Police were seeking information on any suspicious people, vehicle or activity in the Potter Street area between 4.30am-5am on Tuesday 19 August. Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Register your interest at
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Opposition leader Brad Battin has double-downed on controversially addressing media at a homicide investigation in Dandenong on Tuesday 19 August. Upon hearing about the incident on radio, Battin reportedly dropped by and spoke on Victoria’s crime woes. Metres away, a 39-year-old man’s covered body lay behind police tape on the corner of Princes Highway and Potter Street. Police later confirmed the man had been stabbed in a nearby flat, fled onto the street where he collapsed in front of a passing police patrol about 5am. Despite the efforts of paramedics, he died at the scene. Battin has since reportedly vowed to keep attending crime scenes to drive his message, claiming the Government “ignores rising violent crime”. “You’ve got to do it respectfully and we made sure of that,” he told Star News. “All the press wasn’t done directly looking at the crime scene itself. “We’d spoken to the police there. We were in the public area. So I’d say I’m very comfortable with what happened.” On social media, Battin has posted audio of an ABC interview under the title of ‘Why I went to Dandenong to discuss Labor’s knife crime epidemic’. “I think it’s about time that we start highlighting the fact that this government needs to be held to account,” he told ABC. “People are being stabbed in the street, we’re seeing people being stabbed in their homes.” The next day, an adamant Battin spruiked his ‘break bail – face jail’ policy outside other crime scenes, including supermarkets targeted by armed robbers. He’s also held press conferences at a Berwick marketplace, at the scene of two stabbings, he says. Government MPs, including Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams, lambasted Battin for the Dandenong presser. “Let me be clear, any politician who visits an active crime scene in order to conduct a political stunt risks disrupting and perhaps
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Signs up as petition grows By Ethan Benedicto Large signs have been propped up around homes in Berwick Springs, weeks after AnnMarie Hermans said in Parliament that she was aiming to table the 2000-plus petition for debate. On Tuesday, 19 August, the south-eastern metropolitan MP posted on Facebook her speech in parliament, requesting that “the Legislative council call on the government to revoke the unilateral renaming of Berwick Springs Lake”. “[Also] implement proper local community consultation on any future naming decision regarding the lake found in the Berwick Springs Reserve. “And investigate the process that led to the unilateral approval by the minister for planning,” she said. This comes as signs, as large as those placed for homes set on sale, were placed on two homes that border the road on the lake. Together, they read and detail the “170 years of local Australian history,” touching on the historic Springfield Homestead, the dairy farm owned by William Clarke in 1855, and Edwin Greaves’ eventual purchase of the 1620-acre land. Despite months having passed since the initial announcement that Berwick Springs Lake now bore the name Guru Nanak Lake to honour Victoria’s Sikh population in November 2024, residents’ thoughts remain clear. One resident who stopped to observe the sign told Star News that “I just don’t think it’s right”. “I’ve been here for 11 years, and the lack of consultation, I just think it’s terrible and pathetic; the government’s got better things to do, you know? “It’s a big step; the petition being sent to parliament, that should tell the politicians how the people feel,” they said. Another man said that, as someone who
One of the two signs in front of a home near the Berwick Springs Lake. (Ethan Benedicto: 497766_03) migrated from Turkey some 40-odd years ago, he said that he is “well aware” of what “unfair politics” looks like. “This is Berwick Springs, you know? We don’t want to favour any specific cultures or religions,” he said. “There is no hate here; we don’t want to like one culture over another, because that’s what
happened.” Michael Ball, one of the founders of the Berwick Springs Community Group, said that the residents “are getting to the point where the residents want some answers”. “We had the mayor of Casey saying there should have been consultation, we had Julian Hill MP saying there should have been consul-
tation, so we’re not going anywhere. “It’s important to recognise that this is not a reflection of the Sikh community themselves, we’ve had a lot of people from their community come to sign the petition. “People think it’s just Michael Ball pushing the agenda, no, I’m representing the community,” he said.
Step into the new season with gardening expert Jane Edmanson for a hands-on workshop at Summerset Cranbourne North. Best known for her long standing role on ABC’s Gardening Australia, Jane has inspired generations of Australians to connect with their gardens and local environment. Come along, hear from the expert herself and learn tried and tested tricks so you can get the most out of your gardens. After the workshop, enjoy complimentary coffee and morning tea while mingling with fellow green thumbs. It’s a perfect day to learn something new and connect with the Summerset Cranbourne North community.
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Levy is hitting residents By Ethan Benedicto The hotly criticised emergency services and volunteers fund levy has taken effect for many residents throughout Victoria and Casey, with the Casey Residents’ and Ratepayers Association calling for more advocacy to be done. Anthony Tassone, vice president of the CRRA, said that ratepayers are receiving a “nasty surprise” when it comes to their rate notices this year. “Not only is there an increase in their rates to the three per cent cap for Casey residents, but there’s also this state-endorsed tax, and that’s how it’s being perceived. “It’s not a levy, it’s a tax that local councils are expected to be tax collectors [of] on behalf of the state government,” he said. The ESVF levy was met with harsh criticism and protests by the numbers in Spring Street earlier this year, with CFA volunteers, farmers and firefighters among the fray. More recently, on 26 July, more than 30 councils from across Victoria gathered in Melbourne in a similar show of protest against the ESVF, one which the City of Casey was indirectly represented by Kowan Ward councillor Shane Taylor. Casey’s Mayor, Stefan Koomen, told Star News in June 2025 that while he agreed the ESVF levy was unfair, the council remained tied to its legal obligations under the State Government. At the same time, Koomen said then that the council is working with the state government, as well as other stakeholders and the Municipal Association of Victoria. However, Tassone thinks that Casey as a whole “should and must join the advocacy of over 30 other councils to scrap the tax”. “We question the value of the MAV and whether they’re really prepared to push hard against the
Anthony Tassone, vice president of the CRRA, said that the City of Casey could be doing more to advocate for its residents as the ESVF levy hits bills. (On File) state government and bite the hand that feeds them. “We have neighbouring councils like Cardinia Shire who have been very vocal against the ESVF, and we’d like to see the City of Casey join those strong calls to oppose it, and do more than what they’re currently doing for the residents,” he said. As reported by the Herald Sun, the ABC, and other independent outlets, those focusing on re-
gional news and farmers have reported residents facing up to a 200 per cent increase. Likewise, a Mitchell Shire homeowner faced a 62 per cent jump in their bill, over $4200, bumping the total bill to nearly $11,700. “Farmers are doing it tough already without the state government slapping them with extra taxes on the land that they hold,” Tassone said. “And again, what choices are they left with to
try and recoup and offset the impact of these taxes? “There are flow-on effects to the rest of the community through increased prices of produce, goods and services that businesses provide.” Tassone also questioned the overall “motives” of the levy, saying that it is basically a “tax hit delivered through rate notices”, with local councils serving as their tax collectors.
When places of worship aren’t welcome in Green Wedge zones You hear it all the time: “We’re not racist, we just want to protect the environment.” And yet, planning rejections for places of worship — temples, mosques, gurdwaras — across Melbourne’s Green Wedge zones are stacking up like dominoes. First the mosque in Narre Warren North. Then the Hindu temple in Pearcedale. Next? The stated reasons are always the same: biodiversity, noise, traffic, native flora. But let’s be real — is this truly about trees and traffic? Or something deeper? Because if you listen closely to the voices behind the objections, you’ll often hear something else: fear. Fear of change. Fear of being outnumbered. Fear of difference. Australia is not short of land. It is not short of engineering solutions for parking, traffic, or acoustic concerns. What we’re short of is trust. We live side by side, but not together. We attend festivals but don’t talk to our neighbours. We “tolerate” other cultures, but rarely celebrate or understand them. And when a temple or mosque is proposed in a previously Anglo suburb, objections pile up. But so does resentment from ethnic communities who feel vilified, rejected, and misunderstood — again. Let’s be clear: bad behaviour exists on both sides. As one Hallam resident shared with us: “They parked across my driveway, left rubbish, were yelling late at night after prayers.” These experiences sour goodwill and confirm stereotypes. But should the actions of a few ruin connection for all? We have a right to protect the Green Wedge. But we also have a duty to protect the soul of our suburbs. This isn’t just about temples or trees. It’s about who gets to belong. If churches can be built quietly in green zones, why not gurdwaras? If Italian clubs and footy ovals exist in semi-rural zones, why not community halls for Diwali or
6 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 28 August, 2025
Eid? We’re not asking for blind approval. We’re asking for balanced, bias-free dialogue. We’re not saying all opposition is racist — we’re saying some of it is, and we must be brave enough to name it. Governments need to stop handing out cheques to tick diversity boxes. Instead: ■ Empower communities to raise their own funds, but provide land solutions that work — not just throw them into the middle of a protected wedge and let the fight begin. ■ Mandate cultural education (CQ) in councils, schools, and planning bodies so decisions reflect understanding, not fear. ■ Showcase ethnic economic impact — highlight the tax paid, jobs created, and service delivered by Australia’s diverse communities. ■ Stop “Harmony Day” lip service — replace it with year-round, localised programs that create real contact between cultures. One proposal is a “Know Your Neighbour” campaign. A state or even nationwide campaign that rewards schools, workplaces, and streets for genuine community connection. This could include: ■ Neighbour Challenges – How many neighbours can you name and connect with? ■ Local Meet-Ups – Councils run “Street Conversations” with tea, food, and story-sharing. ■ Corporate-Sponsored BBQs – Telcos, energy companies fund and host neighbourhood events. ■ Schools host “Family Fusion Fairs” – Where students showcase their parents’ culture and build bridges across generations. Let’s turn diversity from a talking point into a living experience. Because the Green Wedge doesn’t just need protecting from development — it needs protecting from division. Let’s fight for both.
Casey’s Mayor, Stefan Koomen, said that the council remains committed to advocating for fairer outcomes of the new ESVF levy, as it hits local residents’ bills. (On File)
Mayor vows continued advocacy as ESVF levy hits By Ethan Benedicto Mayor Stefan Koomen has acknowledged the impact of the ESVF levy, vowing commitment for fairer outcomes and advocacy for Casey residents. This comes as the CRRA’s vice-president, Anthony Tassone, highlighted the impact that the ESVF, which has recently hit local ratepayers’ bills, has had, labelling it as a “nasty surprise”. Koomen said that residents have been in touch with him seeking “clarity and support”, and that the recent changes of the ESVF “have had a noticeable impact, especially on landowners with non-residential property”. He emphasised that the ESVF is not a council-imposed charge, and none of the funds collected are retained by the council. “Council acts solely as a collector of this levy, with all funds going directly to and managed by the State Government,” he said. “This process has placed additional pressure on council resources, and we will continue to work with the state and stakeholders to ensure a smooth implementation within our community.”
The City of Casey has been in constant communication with the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), and according to Koomen, thanks to this advocacy, the state government has established a dedicated hotline to assist with ESVF-related enquiries. While he has encouraged residents to contact the hotline for direct support and additional information, he also added that the levy has placed an unfair burden on Casey residents. “We believe the increased levy places an unfair financial burden on our residents, many of whom are already facing significant cost-of-living challenges,” he said. Koomen, speaking for the council and the city itself, said that he appreciates the critical role that emergency services play in keeping the community safe, but remains adamant that the levy’s burden cannot be ignored. “Council remains committed to advocating for fairer outcomes and will continue to work closely with the state government and MAV to ensure the concerns of the Casey community are heard and addressed,” Koomen said. The ESVF-dedicated hotline can be reached on 1300 819 033.
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NEWS
Debate rages over hearings By Cam Lucadou-Wells Former Casey mayors grilled in the Operation Sandon investigation have called for IBAC to cease holding examinations in public “under any circumstances”. A joint submission from former Casey mayors Sam Aziz, Lorraine Wreford and Janet Halsall as well as Bob Halsall and Bernard Lee to a State Parliament inquiry states public examinations – and media access to transcripts - make it “impossible for IBAC to avoid inflicting reputational damage” on witnesses. However, a former IBAC commissioner who oversaw the Operation Sandon inquiry has submitted to the Parliament inquiry for wider powers for public examinations. Robert Redlich argued to remove the “exceptional circumstances” requirement for public examinations. “Public hearings serve the public good.” Some of the benefits listed by Redlich include transparency, deterring corruption, increasing the public’s faith in IBAC and increasing IBAC’s accountability to fairly treat witnesses. “One need look no further than the secrecy surrounding IBAC’s large number of private examinations over the last decade to see how it has provoked continuous public criticism and distrust over its hidden processes.” Redlich argued it was “highly unlikely” that an IBAC witness’s reputation would be “unreasonably damaged” in public inquiries. This was because IBAC had to be satisfied that the evidence likely established the witness’s alleged misconduct. Aziz and Wreford were among several councillors, MPs and developers publicly interrogated during Sandon’s examination of serious corruption allegations involving planning and development decisions in Casey. Adverse findings were made against some witnesses. As yet, none of them have been charged. Meanwhile Janet Halsall resigned from her staffer role in Federal MP Jason Wood’s office af-
Former IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich argues for a lower threshold for public examinations, in contrast to a submission from Operation Sandon witnesses. ter being named in evidence heard during Sandon. “Each time IBAC holds a public hearing they are contravening their own Act which states that they must not hold public examinations if this will result in reputational damage for witnesses,” the submission stated to the Adequacy of the Legislative Framework for the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) inquiry. Former mayor Amanda Stapledon took her own life while believing she was headed for jail over corruption allegations raised at Operation Sandon, a State Coroner found. IBAC subsequently confirmed it was not contemplating charges against Stapledon nor referring her for prosecution. During Sandon, then-Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek sacked Casey’s coun-
cillors and installed a panel of administrators to oversee the council in 2020. According to Aziz and Wreford’s submission, witnesses suffered “catastrophic outcomes” such as severe mental health issues due to not being told when “stringent confidentiality requirements” were lifted. Resulting media coverage had caused “innocent bystanders” - not under investigation, but referred to in the investigation - losing jobs, livelihoods, health and relationships, the submission stated. IBAC had presented a report to Parliament after the examination of “innocent witnesses” but hadn’t provided updates on the witnesses’ “fate for literally years”, the ex-mayors claimed. “This has had huge impacts on the welfare of witnesses, as they cannot move on and rebuild their shattered lives until they have final confir-
mation from IBAC that no further action is to be taken.” Public examinations also “(render) it impossible to find an unbiased jury” if there’s a formal prosecution, the ex-mayors argue. Redlich, in his submission, also called for broader investigation powers to explore ‘grey’ or “soft” corruption. He submitted that IBAC was limited to examining misconduct that could be deemed as criminal, such as for financial gain. But many forms of misconduct were not for financial gain but for political party interest or political power or favour which “serves an interest at the expense of the public interest”, he argued. It leaves an increasing band of “grey” misconduct due to the changing nature of executive government – in which ministers were surrounded by “political” advisers. The ALP-branch stacking inquiry Operation Watts – which had a strong focus on the South East - didn’t uncover any crime but instead “serious misconduct designed to favour political interests which corroded decision making in the public interest”, Redlich argued in his submission. “The public response from the primary person of interest was that there were no findings of corruption. “As the Ombudsman and I stated, this grey corruption has precisely the same deleterious effects on the public good as a crime, but it is far more prevalent.” Local government opposition spokesperson Beverley McArthur recently called for answers as to why there has not been a single charge against Sandon witnesses given the scale and severity of the allegations. Currently, the Operation Sandon report and documents are not available on IBAC’s website. “Sandon sullied the reputations of many individuals – who deserve to know whether they will be charged or not.” The State Government was contacted for comment.
IN BRIEF Accused car thief faces 32 charges A man has been accused of a 32-offence, three-week crime spree across the South East. The 28-year-old from Carrum Downs was allegedly in a stolen vehicle driven dangerously to evade pursuing police in Pakenham on 12 August and Skye on 18 August. He was also allegedly part of a spate of burglaries and thefts between 3-23 August. Police say the offences occurred in Dandenong South, Cranbourne, Noble Park, Narre Warren, Pakenham, Clyde, Skye, Officer and other suburbs. The man was arrested with the assistance of the Dog Squad, Air Wing and Southern Metro Region Crime Squad in Frankston on Saturday 23 August. Moorabbin and Frankston CIU detectives charged him with 32 offences including burglaries, car thefts, conduct endangering serious injury and driving dangerously whilst pursued by police. He was allegedly wanted on a warrant for failing to appear at court for similar offending. The man was remanded to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 27 August. Three teens arrested after cars damaged Three teenagers have been arrested after they were caught damaging cars in Hampton Park in the early morning of Tuesday 26 August. Police were called to reports of teens smashing the front window of a business on Commerce Drive just after 12am. It is alleged that they then damaged around 15 vehicles parked on the street. No one was inside the business or any of the cars at the time. Officers attended and arrested the trio at the scene. The 14-year-old boy and two 13-year-old boys, all from the Dandenong area, were taken into custody, where they will be interviewed. Toddler critically injured following collision Police are investigating a collision in Chelsea Heights on the night of Monday 25 August, where a child sustained critical injuries, and
a Clyde man was interviewed. It is understood a white van was travelling west on Thames Promenade, near the intersection of Mulkarra Drive, when it struck a toddler about 9.10pm. The child was on a small balance bike using the pedestrian crossing with a man who was walking. An off-duty police officer stopped to assist the child, who was then worked on by emergency services at the scene. The child was transported to the hospital with serious injuries and remains in a critical condition. The man who was walking across the road was not injured. The male driver of the van stopped at the scene and was arrested. The 29-year-old Clyde man was interviewed and released pending further enquiries. Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are working to establish the exact circumstances of the collision. Checking roadworthiness More than 150 drivers accused of taking part in illegal hoon gatherings across Greater Dandenong were requested by police to surrender their cars for roadworthy checks at Dandenong Showgrounds on Thursday 21 August. The large-scale police operation follows a car meet on July 21 in a Dandenong industrial estate, where burnouts were allegedly performed just metres from spectators. Officers said the group dispersed when police arrived, but Automatic Numberplate Recognition Technology recorded dozens of licence plates. Investigators also tracked down several drivers after some allegedly posted footage of their stunts on social media. Acting Senior Sergeant Shaun Tolliday from Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol said, “that intelligence and those videos have formed a big part of our investigation, and getting these people before the courts.” Police then issued official defect notices, ordering owners to present their vehicles for inspection.
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Thursday, 28 August, 2025 | STAR NEWS 7
NEWS
Patient demands answers By Afraa Kori A Kooweerup woman says she was left stranded in the freezing cold for hours after being forcibly removed from Casey Hospital’s emergency department, despite being in severe pain and unable to walk. Jennifer White, who suffers from chronic pain and requires a hip replacement, said she was recently taken to the hospital by ambulance, after collapsing in the town’s main street. “I just sat down to make a phone call and my hip went,” White said. “I couldn’t get up again, so I rang an ambulance. They gave me morphine and took me straight to a bed.” But after undergoing examinations, doctors determined no further scans were necessary and discharged her with instructions to rest and follow up with her GP and specialist. What happened next, Ms White said, left her traumatised. Unable to arrange a way home at 1am, she asked staff for a taxi voucher – something she said had been granted on previous visits. This time, she was refused. “I told them I had no one to call and couldn’t walk,” White said. “The next thing, six security guards came in. One was right up in my face saying, ‘Get out, let’s move.’ I was in total shock.” Ms White said she was forced outside in only a thin coat and waited six hours in the cold before finally calling a neighbour at dawn to collect her. “My hands were purple. My face was purple. I huddled against a post to try and block out the cold,” she recalled. “I’ve suffered in the last two days more than anything in my life. This has hurt me deeply inside.” The incident has shaken her trust in the hospital. “No matter what happens, I’ll never go back to Casey Hospital,” White said. “They need more compassion and understanding for people who genuinely need help and are in financial hardship.” Other patients have since come forward
Patient Jennifer White. (Stewart Chambers: 498145) with similar accounts. Kate, another patient, said: “This happened to me once. I was getting treated and suddenly they escorted me out, no explanation. I swear it was mistaken identity, but I was still treated like rubbish.” Stan recalled waiting eight hours in the
emergency department with his partner, who had a broken leg, before being told to leave. “If you have private (insurance), you should be okay. If not, good luck,” Stan said. Monash Health spokesperson said their hospital “is deeply concerned about the difficulty the patient experienced getting home
from Casey Hospital and we apologise for the distress it has caused“. “A review is underway to understand what occurred to ensure we are continuously improving our patient care and support. We have spoken with the patient to apologise and better understand their experience.“
Almost 7000 incidents of family violence in Casey this year By Ethan Benedicto The City of Casey has been identified as Victoria’s family violence hotspot, with police revealing nearly 7000 incidents recorded so far this year, the highest volume of reports for a local government area in the state. The figure formed the centrepiece of discussion during the Neighbourhood Police Forum at Bunjil Place on Thursday, 21 August, where senior VicPol officers outlined the scale of the crisis and its flow-on effects throughout the community. Rod Maroney, the specialist investigation and support inspector for the division encompassing Casey, Dandenong and Cardinia, said the numbers reflected Casey’s rapid population growth. “The reason why it occurs is because Casey is growing every day, and we are getting a lot of young families moving into the area, living with the pressures of family environments such as kids, schooling, employment, the cost of living and so forth. “So when we talk about those numbers, although they seem quite large and they are, a lot of those are very much first-time reporters,” he said. For Victoria, family violence remains the most significant crime theme across the state, both in sheer numbers and in terms of the lasting harm it causes. Maroney said police treat family violence as a crime, not as a dispute amongst individuals, adding that the organisation had undergone a cultural shift and now enforced a zero-tolerance approach to breaches of intervention orders. “There’s no such thing anymore in Victoria Police about how it’s a minor breach, or that it’s a technical breach; we don’t stand for that anymore. “If there is a breach, the offenders are held to account; it’s very simple for us now, and that’s part of that cultural shift,” he said. Around 70 intervention orders are issued daily through the Dandenong Magistrates’
8 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 28 August, 2025
Stuart Richards, Casey’s local area commander inspector, spoke to the gallery about Casey’s demographics before introducing the issue of family violence. (Ethan Benedicto: 498016_02) Court, with Maroney stressing that rising reports should also be seen as a positive. “Because what it means is that our victim survivors are actually coming forward and reporting to us, which is what we want. “If they don’t report to us, we can’t intervene, and we can’t stop that family violence from continuing to occur. “Victim survivors are being assaulted, stalked, and properties are being damaged; it leaves a lasting effect on children, and we treat it as it is, a crime,” he said. Ben Gordon, the officer in charge of the Family Violence Investigation Unit, explained that while Casey records thousands of incidents each year, only a small portion are handled by his detectives. His unit is tasked with investigating around five per cent of the most severe cases, such as incidents that require a specialist investigative response and strong prosecutorial outcomes. “They do need a specialist response, and
there are victims within our community that need our specialist response in order to keep them safe,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration, noting that the division partly organises the Risk Assessment Management Panel (RAMP), which brings together police, corrections, child protection and family violence services to share real-time information on the most dangerous cases. Shane Wright, the divisional family violence coordinator, holds a unique role created in response to the high volume of incidents in Casey. When asked about the percentage of family violence offenders who are repeat offenders, he said that it’s a figure of 3.2 per cent for 2025. “They’re the people that we’re really trying to reduce and provide that extra support to, because whilst the initial contact with police is a very traumatic time, we try to put things in place with those external agencies to prevent that
from occurring,” Wright said. Despite these changes, a local specialist family violence counsellor with lived experience, spoke about the difficulties some victims still face when approaching police stations. Speaking on one client, the counsellor said that they had been told by an officer at the desk “that she didn’t need another family violence intervention order”. “That she probably didn’t need the last one, and that 50 per cent of women who come in to report are liars, and anyone can get an intervention order these days. “That was really disheartening for that person; she was absolutely devastated,” the counsellor said. They also raised broader concerns about the way victims are treated at the counter, where they are often required to provide personal details in public spaces, which she described as retraumatising. In response, Maroney apologised and said officers had undergone a significant cultural change and training to ensure reports were taken seriously. “Every member in this room has been trained in relation to family violence, and every member here and on the road knows that when a victim comes to report, the courage it takes for them to do that, we have to take it seriously,” he said. Ultimately, the scale of the issue in Casey underscored why family violence was placed at the top of the forum’s agenda, with officers stressing that family violence remains Victoria’s most significant crime theme and urging the community to continue reporting. If you or someone you know is in direct danger, call Triple 000 for police and ambulance help. For access to 24-hour national sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling, contact 1800RESPECT. For access to VicPol resources on family violence, visit www.police.vic.gov.au/report-family-violence
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NEWS
Car park push ‘alarming’ By Ethan Benedicto The recent announcement by the City of Casey to conduct consultation on the Kramer Drive car park in Berwick has been met with objections from on-street residents once more, saying the council’s push for it is alarming. Sophie, a prominent voice from Kramer Drive, and having spoken to Star News on previous occasions during the initial car park announcement, said that the “risk” on the street remains an issue. She highlighted the “risk this puts on Kramer Drive and the surrounding streets as seen at 1001 Steps”. “Antisocial behaviour, as well as the risk to the surrounding properties, we have seen this as actual evidence at 1001 Steps, and to put it into perspective, that reflects security failures, the gate was left open after hours,” she said. A transport impact assessment conducted by onemilegrid for the City of Casey on the proposed car park detailed that the car park is not proposed to be a permanent car park and will not be open and available for use on all days/times. According to the report, the hours between 10am and 4pm are the proposed operating times, also adding that the purpose of the car park is to “serve the existing parking demands of the Wilson Botanic Park and to alleviate the existing utilisation parking in surrounding local streets”. A week before the public consultation period for the Kramer Drive car park was announced, Sophie heard from other locals living around the gate that e-bike and other small motorised vehicle users were heard and observed “speeding up and down the road”. “They’re entering the park after-hours, and during daylight hours, putting park visitors, residents and the landscape at risk. “If we can’t even guarantee a small pedestrian gate can be closed, how can we know a carpark gate will be? It’s a failure before it’s started,” she said.
The open space is just beyond the entrance of Wilson Botanic Park, at the end of Kramer Drive in Berwick. (On File) Further up north, 1001 Steps, especially its Bayview Carpark, is a known destination for latenight gatherings, ones that involve disruptive behaviour, loitering vehicles, and loud music, to name a few. These disruptions are not limited to weekends, with residents near the Bayview Carpark reporting spikes of this or similar behaviour throughout the week, sometimes even consistently. In response, the City of Casey has implemented a series of traffic mitigation devices, such as
gates, yellowed lines, and stop signs; however, if something similar were to come to the end of Kramer Drive, Sophie isn’t too confident of its effectiveness. On top of this, she said that traffic is another major concern, that on a daily basis, she has to “live with the pressure of getting out to an already busy road on Harkaway Road”. “Even if someone lets me out, I have no safe turn angle to perform a right-hand turn; imagine the proposed 60-100 car spaces of people plus those that would be turned around once the car
park is full,” she said. However, the traffic report states that Kramer Drive has “sufficient capacity… to accommodate the redistributed traffic movements to and from the temporary car park”. Detailed in the report, it states that it is “anticipated” that the new temporary car park would be “well utilised” during peak days since it provides an alternative to those who would normally park on the south side of the Princes Highway. It highlights the impact it could have to limit the number of pedestrians crossing through the main entrance of the park, where there is no designated crossing path. The report also adds that despite the car park being open on numerous days throughout the year, there is no guarantee that it will be heavily used “each and every day it is open and available for use”. “The proposed temporary car park is not expected to generate additional traffic movement to the site, but rather redistribute traffic that is already on the road network. “The operation of the Kramer Drive / Harkaway Road intersection and Lyall Road / Harkaway Road / Brisbane Street roundabout is expected to continue to operate within capacity,” the report reads. Despite this, the report also adds that Kramer Drive is capable of a vehicle volume of 2000-3000 a day, with the car park able to handle 1500 a day, numbers that Sophie deems ridiculous, and a “high amount”. The remaining in-person consultation periods for the car park are on Sunday, 31 August between 12pm and 2pm, and on 13 September from 11am to 1pm, at the cafe in Wilson Botanic Park. In the meantime, residents can also complete a survey and share their thoughts through Casey Conversations; visit conversations.casey.vic.gov. au/wbparking The overall consultation period closes on 14 September 2025.
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Thursday, 28 August, 2025 | STAR NEWS 9
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Discover Japan through food Foodlovers make up some of the most dedicated travellers in the world - and why not? While so many cuisines and recipes have travelled the world and are now available here in Australia, there is nothing better than visiting the country and region that your favourite comes from. Imagine enjoying the fresh tomatoes and Bistecca alla Fiorentina in Tuscany, Bouillabaisse in France or a proper English pub meal in, well, a proper English pub. For those who love sushi, ramen and tempur and want to know more about Japanese cuisine - the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has created the perfect list of where to go to try your favourites at their best. While certain dishes can be found across Japan, each region also has its own unique delicacies based upon the local ecology, seasonal produce and the daily catch, with many areas renowned for a single iconic dish, perfected by chefs who hone their craft over generations. From time-honoured fermentation techniques and seasoning staples such as miso paste, soy sauce, pickles and mirin which vary from region to region, to preparing meals which are both nutritionally balanced and beautiful to look at, the art of Japanese cuisine – washoku – is officially recognised as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Property, yet many of the country’s fascinating food regions and flavours are still largely undiscovered by visitors. To shine a light on the diversity and delicacy of Japanese cuisine, here are just some of the JNTO must-try dishes for Australian travellers keen to delve deeper into the flavours of Japan and the prefectures they can be found in. Sweet octopus and eel (Aichi Prefecture) Head to Himaka Island, locally known as ‘octopus (tako) island’ to sample super soft octopus with a sweeter flavour. From boiled octopus to octopus sashimi, deep-fried tentacles to octopus shabu, there are myriad ways to enjoy it…
Unagi. Grilled Eel rice.
including off the plate, with octopus characters displayed throughout the town. Another Aichi favourite during the summer months is hitsumabushi, a dish of grilled eel (unagi) atop white rice with an eel glaze. Add an extra splash of flavour by pouring a broth of dashi and tea over the bowl. Wonderful wagyu (Mie Prefecture) Whilst less globally renowned than its wagyu rival Kobe beef, many Japanese locals consider Matsusaka beef as the country’s best. The prod-
uct of cattle who are raised in stress-free environment which contributes to the meat’s ultrasoft texture and marbling, the area around Matsusaka Station is home to a plethora of restaurants dishing up the local specialty in every manner imaginable, from sukiyaki (thinly sliced beef simmered in a soy-based broth and dipped in raw egg) and yakiniku (grilled with mixed dipping sauces) to shabu-shabu, teppanyaki and sashimi, this melt-in-your-mouth meat is a must for visitors to Matsusaka.
Remarkable ramen (Fukuoka Prefecture) Famous for its Hakata ramen, a tonkotsu-style version with a milky pork bone broth and firm, thin noodles, Fukuoka is a haven for gourmet travellers, who can enjoy some of the region’s signature delights at its bustling yatai food stalls. Set up every evening in the Tenjin and Nakasu areas, these street stalls are beloved by locals for both the flavoursome food and the chance to connect over a quick bowl of steaming broth or sizzling seafood. Popular picks to try include Hakata ramen (of course), grilled chicken yakitori, goma saba (a mackerel dish with sesame), or local oden hot pot. Remember not to overstay your welcome, yatai stalls aren’t the spot for slow dining and you should only stay whilst eating then pass your seat to the next diner. Citrus delights (Ehime Prefecture) While Australians take mandarins and oranges for granted, in Ehime Prefecture, they are elevated to a whole new level. Ehime is Japan’s top producer of mikan citrus fruits, a unique variety of satsuma mandarin, typically sweet and seedless, which are trending on TikTok for their jelly-like texture. Visitors can pick their own in the Yawatahama area, enjoy fresh mikan juice direct from taps around Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen, or try them in everything from fruit sandwiches to parfaits. Unbelievable Udon (Kagawa Prefecture) No visit to Kagawa Prefecture is complete without slurping down a bowl of Sanuki udon noodles, named after the former Sanuki Province. Made from wheat with a square shape, flat edges and chewy texture, Kagawa is home to more than 700 specialist Sanuki udon restaurants. Simple and heartwarming, the dish is usually served with egg yolk or niboshi (dried sardines). Another iconic dish to dive into in Kagawa is hone-tsuki dori, a juicy, spicy version of our retro chicken Maryland.
Dedicated travel content delivered to an untapped audience weekly. To advertise in our Travel Today section, please contact Karen Eyssens e: karen.eyssens@starnewsgroup.com.au t: (03) 5945 0645
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Thursday, 28 August, 2025 | STAR NEWS 11
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*Conditions apply. Prices are per person, in Australian Dollars, based on double occupancy, subject to availability, correct at time of printing, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Viking Extension offer is for a saving up to AU$4,800 per couple on eligible Viking River pre/post cruise extensions and is applicable if one or more Viking pre/post cruise extensions are booked in conjunction with a selected 2026/2027/2028 Viking River cruise or cruise tour. Offer applies once per booking and will be applied at time of booking. Both guests must book the Viking pre/post cruise extension(s) for offer to apply. Please use code EXT24 to activate the Viking River Extensions offer when booking online or via the Contact Centre. European Sojourn voyage based on 20 July 2027 departure. Capitals of Eastern Europe voyage based on 14 March 2027 departure. Passage to Eastern Europe voyage based on 26 July 2027 departure. Valid on bookings made between 01 July – 01 September 2025 at 5pm AEST unless sold out prior. For full terms and conditions visit viking.com.
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12 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 28 August, 2025
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Terms and Conditions apply, for full details please visit imaginecruising.com.au. All prices shown in AUS Dollars. Prices are per person based on two adults sharing and include flights from Melbourne (regional flights available). Credit cards charged at 1.5%, if paying by AMEX a charge of 2.5% will be added. ABN number 48614987718. Prices are correct at the time of print and are subject to change. Offer applies to new bookings only. Named hotels are based on availability and are subject to change without notice. Alternative hotels will always be of equal or higher star rating. Holiday duration includes overnight flights when applicable and is subject to change. *Prices based on 25 May 2026 departure date.
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Thursday, 28 August, 2025 | STAR NEWS 13
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14 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 28 August, 2025
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Thursday, 28 August, 2025 | STAR NEWS 15
WHAT’S ON Casey Community Connect Bakhtar Community Organisation, together with AFL Victoria, warmly invites you and your family to the final session of the Casey Community Connect Program. Sunday, 31 August 1PM – 3PM Casey Fields, Oval 2 Come along and celebrate with us in a day full of joy, culture, and community spirit! Free food and giveaways to share with everyone. Fun activities for kids – jumping castle & face painting. Colourful dance performances and live music for all to enjoy. This celebration is for the whole community, a chance to connect, laugh, and make memories together. We’d love to see you there with your family and friends!
•• •
Berwick Bridge Club Enjoy playing cards? Are you looking for some exercise for your brain that is both fun and challenging? Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members. There are two free beginner’s courses. One starting Friday morning 5 September from 10am to 12pm and the second one on Monday night starting 8 September from 7 to 9pm. Both courses run for 10 weeks. Lessons are held at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House, 21A Bemersyde Drive, Berwick. No partner is required. To reserve your place, please phone Maree on 9702 2348.
Scrabble in Berwick - Fridays 9.30am-12.00pm at Berwick Neighbourhood Centre, 112 High Street, Berwick. Details: David, 0433 566 456.
U3A Casey – Activities for Seniors Are you a senior, aged over 50, who is semi or fully retired? Are you looking to keep your body and mind in top shape? Then … U3A Casey is for you! With over 580 members and 75 different classes, U3A Casey offers you a wide range of activities including Arts & Crafts, Music, Book Clubs, Social Clubs, Low-Impact Sports, Fitness, Cooking … and many more. You can attend up to three classes for free, to see
if you like the classes before registering to join with U3A Casey. Membership from January to December is $60.00 or from July to December is $30.00, which allows you to choose to join any of our classes (subject to available vacancies). For more information on classes, or to join using the online enrolment form: Visit our website – www.u3acasey.org.au Phone our office – 0493 280 458 Email us - caseyu3a@gmail.com
• ••
Balla Balla Community Centre
Health & Wellbeing at Balla Balla Feel good this winter! Join us at Balla Balla Community Centre for Term 3 Health & Wellbeing classes starting in July. Choose from: Yoga/Pilates/Zumba/Mindfulness Meditation & Compassion/Music & Guided Imagery Workshop Move, relax, and recharge – all in your local community! Term 3 enrolments open 30 June online https://ballaballa.com.au/health-wellbeing/ or phone 5990 0900.
• •
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
•
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 meets weekly for a range of different events, including bus trips, community days, games, coffee and chat, bingo, dancing and carpet bowls.
•
ADULT SERVICES
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Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre If you are over 55 years, newly retired or new to the City of Casey and looking forward for something to do, come and join us. The Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre is a friendly seniors Club and we can offer you many activities. Our main Club Day is on Wednesdays from 9:30am to 3:00pm. On the first Wednesday of the month we enjoy socialising with our many members and, on the next three (3) Wednesdays we have live entertainment wherein you can do some dancing or line dancing and if you wish, with an afternoon cup of tea and biscuits. We also hold weekly activities on other days during the week which include the Garden Group, Indoor Carpet Bowls, Table Tennis, Line Dancing, Gentle Exercises and friendly Card Games. We are located at 192-196 Centre Road near the Narre Warren Station. Phone us on 9783 7112 or on Mobile 0426 736 467 or you can email us at: narrewarrenseniors@gmail.com for more information
•
Blind Bight Community Centre Craft gift making for adults from 12.30pm to 2.30pm on Tuesdays. Join in the craft gift making class and bring along your own craft to complete. A variety of techniques and skills are shared, including mosaics, macrame, sewing and painting at $3 per class. Playgroup from 10.30am to noon on Wednesdays. The program provides fun play activities and craft for children at $5 per family. Free knit and crochet from noon to 2pm on Wednesdays. Line dancing from 1pm to 2pm on Wednesdays. All ages, and abilities welcome at $10 per class. For more information and for bookings, visit www. blindbightcommunitycentre.com.au
Employment
Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au
DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.
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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
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16 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 28 August, 2025
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SPORT
Proud Warriors walking tall By Justin Schwarze A sour way to end an impressive season. The Pakenham Warriors Championship Women came up short against Bulleen in the preliminary final on Saturday at Cardinia Life, bringing the campaign to a close. Poor shooting plagued the Warriors again in the prelim, shooting below 33 percent from the floor and just 15 percent from deep. On the other end, the Boomers swung and moved the basketball, dishing out 25 assists on 31 made field goals. Despite the difference in shooting percentage, Pakenham hung around in the contest and was able to momentarily hit the front in the late stages. With six minutes to go, Grace Graham stepped back and knocked down a triple to give the hosts a seven-point buffer before a 16-2 run in response from Bulleen gave the game its final twist. Boomers skipper Catelyn Van Es put the dagger into the Warriors by nailing back-to-back threes late in the fourth to cap off a true captain’s performance as she ended the day with 37 points and nine rebounds on 12/17 shooting. The visitors took the 88-77 result on the road to head into the big dance against the formidable Bellarine Storm this week. Graham top scored for Pakenham with 25 points while Eliza Hollingsworth provided 22 points and 17 rebounds. Skye Rees was impactful off the bench again with 18 points and four assists. Warriors head coach Elli Gibson was open about the loss but reflected extremely proudly on her side’s season. “We played some really good basketball all season but didn’t play at our best when we needed to, that’s the story of it,” she said. “I’m really happy and impressed with the de-
The season came to a close for the Warriors but they look back on their season proudly. (Gary Sissons: 471345) velopment of the girls at an individual level and as a group. “If you look back to round one and two and look at where we were at the end of the season and the basketball we were playing, we just had immense growth from everybody at an individual level and as a collective. “As a coach, that’s what you want and what you want to see. “I couldn’t be more impressed with how they were playing at the end of the year.” Pakenham endured a turbulent start to its season with Gibson stepping in very late in the pro-
cess, just days before the opening game. This was after originally-appointed mentor Jono Goodman departed to pursue another opportunity before ever coaching a game. Gibson was swift on making signings, bringing Rees and Abbey-Lee Wood on board after the Warriors had already started their season. Still, Gibson guided the team to an 18-4 record and second on the ladder, where it reached the second-last day of the season. “We had a very disruptive season with people in and out for different reasons, so for us to have made finals is a big achievement considering the
things the team went through at the start,” Gibson said. “Once we started playing our basketball we had confidence that we could make finals and really challenge in finals. “To have that home final atmosphere against McKinnon with the best supporters in the league was just exceptional, it was such a fun experience and rewarding experience for everyone involved. “It was amazing to have that community club feel and support, it was a really special night. “It was really about the positives and the successes we did have this year.” Gibson also enjoyed working with the young talent coming through at the club, overseeing important development from Youth League-listed players Stella O’Loughlin, Chelsea Schreuder and Kailey Neave. “We had some youth girls come in and play excellent roles for us,” Gibson said. “Kailey Neave was in excellent form at the start of the season for us and covered for us so well while Eliza was out. “You also have Stella and Chels who played in the youth group but also played for us when they could and I thought they just gave us so much energy and punch off the bench and were exceptional. “I couldn’t be prouder.” Gibson was recognised for her outstanding first year at the helm; nominated as a finalist for the Big V Championship Women Coach of the Year. Graham and Hollingsworth were also named finalists for All Star Five, with Graham a strong contender for the league MVP. Wood is also up for an award, finishing as one of five finalists for Defensive Player of the Year. While the season didn’t end in the way they wanted it to, the Warriors had an outstanding 2025.
Storm pushing into finals with momentum on its side By Blair Burns The final home-and-away round produced some good results for Cardinia Storm as the club looks towards finals this weekend. Despite having no bench in the Men’s Metro 2 South competition, the Storm ran away to a crucial win against Croydon Ranges, 3-0. Ben Albrecht has been a consistent performer for the side throughout the season and last weekend was no different, as he netted two goals – Harkeerat Singh Oberoi was the other scorer on the day. Cardinia created plenty of further opportunities to score, including multiple short corners and a penalty, but failed to convert. Cardinia’s season comes to an end in the Metro 2 after the side finished sixth on the ladder with a 9-6-3 record. In other games, the Women’s Metro 1 South side had a strong 2-0 win over Mentone, which was second on the ladder, while the Storm were third.
The match had a finals-like atmosphere as two quality sides battled it out for a win and some momentum heading into finals. Alana Nancarrow and Lilly Kelly controlled the midfield, but that wasn’t without Storm’s defence being tested with several short corners, as they repelled any attacking surges. Captain Nancarrow and Jen Bowtell were the scorers on the day as the Storm progress to the finals after a strong four-quarter effort. Both Cardinia Storm and Monash University could not be split in the Men’s Metro 1 South clash, with the final score sitting a 1-1. Monash scored early to take the lead with a deflection, as the visiting Cardinia side desperately attempted to find an equaliser. It wasn’t until later when Kieran McLellan produced a great piece of play to score a muchneeded goal and salvage a draw for his team. Cardinia finished third on the ladder and will go into this weekend’s final against Monash with high hopes in what will be a rematch.
Casey Cannons’ Tessa Martin had a day out, scoring two goals to lead her team to victory. (Gary Sissons: 497922)
Cannons back to their very best in elite division By Blair Burns
Annabelle Fallu has been a consistent performer for Cardinia in the Women’s Metro 1 South team. (Stewart Chambers: 481273)
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Casey Cannons finished the home-and-away season in first place on the Men’s Vic League (MVL2) ladder after thumping St Bede’s 10-0. Having seven goal scorers would’ve been the most pleasing thing for the Cannons, with almost every player on the field capable of impacting the scoreboard. When the two teams met earlier in the season, it was a slightly more competitive game, with Casey Hockey Club winning 6-1. Tristan Chaffey (three goals) and Elliot Stephens (two goals) were brilliant in the victory as the team’s multiple goal scorers. Other players who found the back of the net included Harry Coster, Bopanna Prince Achandira, Matthew Light, David Noney and captain Craig Moore. In the women’s matches, the Cannons set
the tone in the Women’s Vic League (WVL1) match against PEGS for a big win, 5-1. It was the 14th time this season that Casey’s top women’s side has tasted victory as they shift their focus to a big finals series, sitting third on the ladder. Tessa Martin was the star of the show with two goals, showcasing her attacking flair to put her team in the box seat for a win. Other scorers were Charlotte Smith, Jessica Rowland and Samantha Dobrich. The junior leading scorers for the season were also announced, with Will Justice (nine goals), Chantelle Calado (15 goals) and Charlotte Smith (12 goals) having great seasons in the Under-16s. Ellie Gallus (16 goals) was the pick of the Under-14s players, while Aashwath Bhatt (20 goals), Charlotte Wheeler (11 goals) and Emily Ferguson (10 goals) excelled in the Under-12s.
Thursday, 28 August, 2025 | STAR NEWS 17
SPORT
Hawks soar into big dance By Justin Schwarze The inferno of the Hallam Football Club continues to blaze the Southern Football Netball League Division 4 landscape. The Hawks have secured their spot in this year’s big dance after an 11.10(76) to 4.8(32) win over Dandenong West in the second semi-final. At Robert Booth Reserve, Hallam shrugged off the Westerners nailing the first of the afternoon by booting the next 10 goals of the match. In fact, Dandenong West kicked its first major three minutes into the opening term before not slotting another until the 14-minute mark of the fourth. The Hawks struggled with inaccuracy but got the game on their terms and never looked back. “Our team is full of young guys, they were nervous and weren’t sure how it was going to go,” Hallam senior coach Tom Dalton said. “The first quarter showed that; we missed targets but once they got that out of the way and got going they were good. “We made sure we played four quarters and played every quarter right till the very end. “It was finals footy and you’ve got to play everyone on their merits and the little things you do add up to a win at the end of a game. “We talk about doing as many of the little things as we can, the one percenters. “The sides that seem to do that the most seem to keep the scoreboard ticking over.” Liam Reid and Jack Sharlassian both booted four goals each for the Hawks. Brendan Reynolds, Anthony Bernardo, Alex Kerr and Connor Carlyon were all instrumental in clinching a berth in the grand final.
SOUTHERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
DIVISION 3&4 REVIEW - FINALS - WEEK 1
Hallam was too clean for Dandenong West on Saturday, earning a berth in the Southern Division 4 grand final. (Gary Sissons: 497920) “Our endeavour was the one thing that stood out with me,” Dalton said. “We constantly moved from contest to contest and got numbers around the ball. “When I watched the game back we constantly made it a 3v2 or a 4v2 or a 4v3. “They’re fit, they’re young and I’ll give them their dues, they’ve worked hard.” On Sunday, Lyndale put together a massive first half and upset third-placed Clayton to move into
the preliminary final for the second straight year. The Pumas stood tall and didn’t concede a goal in the first half, leading 4.6(30) to 0.4(4) at the main intermission. Clayton fought back by putting five goals on the board in the third but again went goalless in the last with Lyndale grabbing the 7.9(51) to 5.8(38) triumph. Ryan Ladd and Mark Stevens both kicked two goals for the Pumas.
Dandenong West and Lyndale will clash in this week’s prelim at Robert Booth Reserve with Hallam patiently waiting on the victor. SOUTHERN 3 Berwick Springs was not to the level of Carrum Patterson Lakes as the Titans were beaten 17.11(113) to 7.7(49) in the qualifying final. The Lions were able to extend their 19-point quarter-time buffer to 31 when the siren blared for halftime. Berwick Springs was never able to recover, with the loss sending the club into an elimination semi-final matchup with Hampton. The Hammers will meet the Titans after handling business against Black Rock 12.13(85) to 5.7(37). Archer Grant booted four goals to guide Hampton into the next stage of finals. In week two of the postseason, St Kilda City and Carrum Patterson Lakes will meet on Saturday for a spot in the grand final. On Sunday, the winner of Berwick Springs and Hampton will play the loser in the preliminary final. SOUTHERN 3 FW1 Results: Carrum Patterson Lakes 17.11(113) def Berwick Springs 7.7(49), Black Rock 5.7(37) def by Hampton 12.13(85). Fixture FW2: St Kilda City (1) v Carrum Patterson Lakes (2), Berwick Springs (3) v Hampton (5). SOUTHERN 4 FW1 Results: Hallam 11.10(76) def Dandenong West 4.8(32), Clayton 5.8(38) def by Lyndale 7.9(51). Fixture FW2: Dandenong West (2) v Lyndale (4), Hallam (1)...week’s rest.
Eagles outclassed by superior and stronger opponent By Jonty Ralphsmith Beaconsfield will play North Ringwood in a door-die semi-final on Sunday after going down to Park Orchards 17.11(113) to 7.10(52) at East Burwood Reserve in its qualifying final. After pushing Park Orchards for almost three quarters the previous week to finish the homeand-away season, the smaller ground amplified the second-placed side’s strength around the contest and synergy, which allowed them to skip out to a 40-point halftime lead. Skipper Michael Prosenak led the way, with the young Eagles having no answers. Smashed in the midfield, 113 is the highest score Beaconsfield has conceded in 2025. “They were too good for us all over the ground,” a candid Mick Fogarty said. “Too big, too strong, won the contest. “Our bodies couldn’t cope with their ability to outmuscle us all over the ground. “They put on a remarkable show and beat us
in all facets of the game.” The positives for the Eagles are that Jafar Ocaa showed plenty in his first game back from suspension, while Brandon White and Lachie Modica loom as potential inclusions against North Ringwood, which Fogarty’s troops beat by 37 points in Round 1 before a one-point loss later in the season. “We know how they play, how they move the footy, go laterally and like speed on the game,” Fogarty said. “We match up quite well on them but to their credit, they’ve been in good form in the last six weeks so it should be a terrific game.” Beaconsfield play North Ringwood at Pinks Reserve Kilsyth on Sunday at 2.20pm, with the winner to progress to the preliminary final and take on the loser of the second semi final on Saturday between South Belgrave and Park Orchards.
EASTERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
DIVISION 1 REVIEW - QUALIFYING FINAL
Jafar Ocaa having some good moments on return was one of very few positives for Beaconsfield. (Rob Carew: 476846)
Wickers finish season in style as Bulls vanish from finals By David Nagel Berwick has finished its Eastern Football Netball League Premier season on a high, defeating bottom-placed Mitcham 10.20(80) to 7.11(53) at Edwin Flack Reserve. The Wickers sung the song for the fifth time in 2025 after taking control of proceedings through the middle of the match, albeit not entirely capitalising on a dominant third term. Youngster Jai Neal led the way with three goals, lifting his season tally to 44, placing him fifth in the competition, while fellow forward Jordy Andrews booted two in just his second game since Round 7. Young tall Daniel Pinter, skipper Tom Brennan and defender Caleb Van Oostveen were also terrific for Berwick, who improved greatly this season under new coach Andrew Williams. After winning just two games last year, with a percentage of 47.29, Berwick banked five wins this year with a percentage of 82.16. The news was not so good for Noble Park on the weekend, with the Bulls succumbing meekly - 12.12(84) to 6.9(45) - in a do-or-die clash
18 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 28 August, 2025
EASTERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
PREMIER DIVISION - ROUND 18
Berwick took a big leap forward in 2025. (Rob Carew: 492199) against South Croydon. The Bulls entered the round-18 fixture in fifth place, but by quarter time had slipped outside
the top five and never recovered from there. The Bulldogs piled on 5.3 to 1.3 in the opening stanza and were never challenged from that
point forward in the match. The Bulls had no answer to Bulldogs’ forward Tom Sheridan, who kicked five goals. The Bulls slipped to sixth, missing finals by one position, however, Harry Broderick, Frankston VFL-listed Matt Nelson and former AFL man Brad Crouch were serviceable contributors for four quarters. EASTERN PREMIER Results R18: South Croydon 12.12(84) def Noble Park 6.9(45), Berwick 10.20(80) def Mitcham 7.11(53), Doncaster East 12.9(81) def by Blackburn 23.16(154), Rowville 12.7(79) def East Ringwood 8.10(58), Vermont 13.10(88) def by Balwyn 15.10(100). Ladder: Blackburn 64, East Ringwood 52, Balwyn 48, Rowville 40, South Croydon 36/ Noble Park 36, Vermont 32, Doncaster East 28, Berwick 20, Mitcham 4. Finals Fixture Week 1 Saturday - Qualifying Final at Beaconsfield: East Ringwood (2) v Balwyn (3). Sunday – Elimination Final at Ringwood: Rowville (4) v South Croydon (5).
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SPORT
Magpies fly home in 2025 By Blair Burns The final five will remain the same for finals in Southern Division 1 despite Narre Warren pulling off an upset victory against fourth-placed Springvale Districts by 49 points. After losing to the Demons by 63 points earlier in the season, the Magpies bounced back and turned the tides to win comfortably despite Springy resting a couple of key players ahead of finals. Narre Warren won five of its final eight matches to finish the first Southern season with an improved 7-10-1 record, coming a long way since they lost to Cranbourne in round 10. Narre Warren had a 14-point lead at the main break but accelerated in the second half to pile on 12 goals to six and win comfortably. Will Howe (four goals, 14 marks), Jett Kearney, Travis Callahan (three goals each), Jimmy Dwyer and Tom Toner (two goals each) all hit the scoreboard in a big way. Toner (28 disposals, two goals) and Springvale Districts’ Jackson Sketcher (33 disposals) went head-to-head for most of the day and both players were among their team’s best. Coach Steve Kidd said it was good to finish the season on a high, learning plenty from the earlier season loss against Springy. “It was pleasing to win and win comfortably in the end … we needed to control the ball a bit more than we did the first time around against them and we did that,” he said. “We were able to get over 100 uncontested marks and that was sort of the way we went into the game; we felt like that was the way we were going to be able to beat them, especially with Richo (Jake Richardson) out.” Emerging talent Jimmy Dwyer was one player who impressed after being thrown forward, concluding his first senior season on a positive note. “He had been playing on the wing and playing that role well for us but we moved him forward in the third quarter and he kicked two goals straight away,” Kidd said. “He has come along really well and is so clean and smart with the ball; he is one player that has a huge future at our club and we are looking forward to what he can bring to the side next year.” Narre Warren has seemingly adjusted to the level of Southern and Kidd said the players would take a lot of confidence into next season. “We know we have a bit of ground to make up on the top sides but at least we have shown we can compete with them and sort of be around the mark for others,” he said. “As the season wore on, we adapted and we knew we had to play four quarters, we were sort of playing two or two and a half quarters … it was great to finish the way we did and it gives us a fair bit of confidence going into next year.” Hamish West had a day out in the victory with 32 disposals, 13 marks and one goal, while Hayden Dwyer (21 disposals, seven marks, 32 hitouts) also impressed. Ky Allcock led the way for Springy in the for-
SOUTHERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
DIVISION 1 REVIEW - ROUND 18
Narre Warren’s Hamish West had leather poisoning in the win against Springvale Districts. (Rob Carew: 490837) ward line, kicking four goals to go along with his 10 marks. East Brighton also finished its season on a high as it defeated St Paul’s McKinnon, one of the flag favourites, in a five-point thriller. It was an even contest for most of the day with only two goals scored in the first term, as both sides started slow, but the Vampires prevailed with Sonny Moore (three goals) leading the way. While Cranbourne was playing a young side, its final two games produced a combined losing margin of 195 points, including a 94-point thumping against Cheltenham on the weekend – relegation now a reality. Nicholas Darbyshire (four goals) was a shining light for the Eagles, while Max Davis (seven goals) and Sam Lonie (four goals) were domi-
nant for the Rosellas. Eagles’ debutant Jacob Mair enjoyed a special moment when he kicked his first senior goal, with the entire team getting around him. A strong first half from Dingley set up its 17th win of the season, as the Dingoes feasted on Bentleigh early in the match. Scanlan Lynch has kicked nine goals in his past two outings, including four on the weekend, as he looks to make an impact in the finals. Murrumbeena made light work of Port Melbourne to win by 51 points in a brilliant team performance which saw 11 players hit the scoreboard. However, forwards Ed Standish and Dareo Rogers both failed to register a score, while Tom Smith played a great game for the Colts in the loss.
SOUTHERN DIVISION 1 Results – R18: Cheltenham 22.16 (148) def Cranbourne 8.6 (54), Dingley 16.11 (107) def Bentleigh 9.11 (65), Murrumbeena 17.14 (116) def Port Melbourne 9.11 (65), Narre Warren 17.12 (114) def Springvale Districts 9.11 (65), East Brighton 12.10 (82) def St Paul’s McKinnon 12.5 (77). Ladder (Final): Dingley 68, St Paul’s McKinnon 52, Cheltenham 50, Springvale Districts 40, Bentleigh 38, East Brighton 32, Narre Warren 30, Murrumbeena 22, Port Melbourne 16, Cranbourne 12. Fixture: Qualifying Final (Saturday); St Paul’s McKinnon (2) v Cheltenham (3) at Kalora Park, Elimination Final (Sunday); Springvale Districts (4) v Bentleigh (5) at RSEA Park.
Dwyer recognised for strong season with Narre Warren By Blair Burns Narre Warren’s Gabrielle Dwyer capped off a strong individual season to win the Southern Netball A1 best and fairest with 25 votes. The assistant coach polled well throughout the entire count, earning recognition for her strong season in goal defence which helped the Magpies finish second on the ladder. Dwyer said it was disappointing for the side to exit finals in straight sets, but was happy she was able to contribute well throughout the season. “I’ve put in a lot of work this season, so it was nice to be recognised at the end,” she said. “Over the past couple of years I have struggled with injury, so this was my first full year, mostly injury free. “I felt like I was finally back to playing my best netball again, which felt really good.” Narre Warren’s strength was showcased in the team’s 12-3 season record; Dwyer was also one of three local players to be named in the Southern A1 Team of the Year. Grace Loelu (goal shooter) capped off her
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brilliant season under the ring with selection into the team, also finishing fourth in the vote count with 12 votes, while captain Brittany Mashado made the team as a reserve. “I didn’t think I would poll as well as I did, I missed a few games and we have some great players in our team, I thought we would probably take votes off each other ,” Dwyer said. It was the first time that the 26-year-old had taken on the assistant coaching role, working closely alongside head coach Michelle Mashado throughout the year. “I’m so proud of the girls this season, we came into a new league and were up against some really talented players, as well as a lot of girls who play VNL,” Dwyer said. “Obviously disappointed to not go all the way, but as a team we had a really fun year and are happy to have been able to be competitive against the top teams throughout the rounds.” Dingley defeated Cheltenham 48-33 in the Southern A1 grand final on the weekend, while Dwyer and her Narre Warren side will prepare to go a couple better in 2026 and achieve premiership glory.
Gabrielle Dwyer won the Southern Netball A1 best and fairest with 25 votes. (Rob Carew: 1495021)
Thursday, 28 August, 2025 | STAR NEWS 19
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