News - Pakenham Officer Star News - 18th September 2025

Navy rocks Beaconhills

the highly sought-after Royal Australian Navy Band on Tuesday 16 September.

The band performed at the Berwick Campus before an audience of Year 5 students and staff.

The College’s Director of Performing Arts, Dr Chris McGillen, said the band was one of the busiest and most requested in the Service Bands network (Army, Navy and Air Force).

‘Not in our name’

Pakenham was the location for the “Not In Our Name – Scrap The Tax” rally with dozens of firefighters, farmers and residents in attendance.

The rally was held on September 16, and was organised by Meg Edwards, a councillor from Bass Coast, Nathan Murphy, and Cr Trudi Paton from Cardinia Shire Council.

Residents gathered at the Community Centre to voice their opposition to the new emergency services tax, sending a clear message that “this unfair tax must be repealed.”

There was a strong presence of local councillors including City of Casey Cr Shane Taylor and Cr Michelle Crowther, as well as La Trobe City Council’s Cr Adele Pugsley.

Cardinia Shire Council’s Deputy Mayor Cr Alanna Pomeroy attended, while former Mayor Bill Ronald made a surprise appearance.

Mayor of Baw Baw Shire Danny Goss addressed the Cardinia crowd, saying “100 per

cent” of his councillors support the local government opposition to being forced to act as unpaid tax collectors for the State Government. He was joined by Cr Jess Hamilton, Cr Brendan Kingwill, and Cr Adam Sheehan.

A large contingent of volunteer and paid firefighters, farmers, small business owners, parents and pensioners worried about the cost of living and the community turned up in numbers to participate.

Pensioner Marg reflected on the strain of rising costs despite her rebates: “I’m not keeping ahead with things, I’m going backwards. “I’m not going to survive. I’ll probably end up sitting in my little home all alone and just die because I can’t afford food.”

Locals expressed frustration at being “overlooked” and “dismissed” by a “city-centric” Labor government, saying it fails to adequately support regional communities.

FULL STORY PAGE 4

Navy’s top brass visits

Beaconhills College students were delighted to have a visit from the highly sought-after Royal Australian Navy Band on Tuesday 16 September.

The band performed at the Berwick Campus before an audience of Year 5 students and staff.

The College’s Director of Performing Arts, Dr Chris McGillen, said the band was one of the busiest and most requested in the Service Bands network (Army, Navy and Air Force).

“I was so thrilled that after submitting a request over a year ago – with a slim hope of success – to get the band out to perform and interact with our Year 5 students from both campuses,” Dr McGillen said.

He said the Navy Band’s musicianship and service were legendary.

Many members have been deployed overseas on active service to raise morale through their music, sometimes in the most challenging of circumstances.

“Words cannot express our gratitude to the Royal Australian Navy Band for coming out to our Berwick Campus and inspiring our students through their music and stories of service,“ Dr McGillen said.

Year 5 student Finley said he loved watching the Navy Band perform.

Finley is a keen trumpet player and is not only in the Year 5 band at Beaconhills, but is one of only two Year 5 students from his campus to be chosen to join the College concert band.

Finley said his dad played the trumpet and this had inspired his interest in the instrument.

“I love how it comes out with such a beautiful sound,” he said. “It is one of the most ‘brassy’ instruments.”

Band member, Able Seaman Musician (ABMUSN) Natalia Edwards, who plays the French horn, said performing to Beaconhills students took her back to the days when she was just starting out in music.

“I still remember playing in my high school wind band and hearing one of the US service bands for the first time,” ABMUSN Edwards said.

“That experience inspired me to keep pursuing music, and now I have the chance to pass that same inspiration on to the next generation.”

She said that learning to play an instrument had helped give her confidence, meet “many incredible people” and had opened doors she never could have imagined – to travelling and perform-

ing around the world. This year, she went on her first sea trip with the band, sailing on the secondlargest ship in the fleet from Sydney to Wellington, New Zealand.

On board, they rehearsed both their wind band and parade band repertoire so that when they arrived, they were ready to perform a full marching display, ceremonial sunset, freedom of entry, and even a joint performance with the New Zealand Navy Band.

“It was an unforgettable experience that combined music, travel, and the chance to connect with fellow musicians overseas,” ABMUSN Edwards said.

Supermarkets targeted in string armed robberies

By Ethan Benedicto

Southern Metro Crime Squad detectives are investigating a series of armed robberies and attempted armed robberies in Melbourne’s Southeast, including an IGA in Narre Warren North that was targeted by a group of male offenders, one armed with an axe.

It is understood that the group, wearing dark clothing and face coverings, attended six businesses in a black Jeep over the last few days.

On Saturday, 13 September, three male offenders entered a supermarket on Oakview Boulevard in Narre Warren North around 6:15pm.

One male was armed with an axe and demanded cash from the staff member; the group stole cigarettes and two packs of alcoholic drinks; this was the last of the recorded incidents.

Marcos IGA Narre Warren North posted on their Facebook over the weekend, confirming the incident, and, more recently, also announced that, in an effort to counter the burglaries, they will stop selling cigarettes.

Following, they added that “our staff are

safe”, and that the team “are so proud of the way they [staff] handled such a frightening situation”.

“We are deeply grateful to the customers and locals who stepped in to support us; your actions show the strength of this community.

“Crime of this nature has no place here, and united, we will stand against it,” they said.

On the topic of cigarettes, they also posted on Facebook saying that the decision was “not an easy choice”, but the “right one” when it comes to protecting staff and community from “senseless attacks”.

The day prior, three male offenders were armed with a machete and entered a supermarket on Adakite Drive in Berwick around 6:15pm on Friday, 12 September; they fled the scene with cash and cigarettes.

The manager of the local IGA branch, Helen, said that while she was in the back rooms during the incident, it was something that she had anticipated.

“I wasn’t too shocked; we’ve been broken into overnight before, and since IGAs around us have been robbed during the day, I was ex-

pecting it to happen any day,” she said.

“I think what people don’t realise, or people who don’t work retail, is that not only are you losing stock and money, you’re also losing people.”

Helen said that the mental and emotional impact on the 16-year-old staff member who had seen the incident unfold was monumental, extending that impact to the customers, and many others who may want to come and shop there, but choose not to after what has happened.

“People can see the impact, they can see things being taken and the damages, but it’s also the ripple effect that comes after,” she said.

“The rumours that go around and come after, people not wanting to work or shop here.

“Business will have to operate as usual; it can’t stop. People are taking time off, but we have to keep going.”

Three hours later, around 9:10pm, three male offenders, armed with a machete, attempted to kick their way into a service station on Wells Road in Chelsea Heights; they were unsuccessful.

The next day, on the beginning of Saturday, 13 September, four male offenders entered a milk bar on Rowellyn Avenue in Carrum Downs about 3:35pm.

One of them was armed with a weapon and smashed a till; the staff member intervened, and the offenders fled empty-handed.

A short time later, four offenders entered a store on Thames Promenade in Chelsea Heights; they threatened staff and customers, then attempted to steal cigarettes but were unsuccessful.

Around 5:15pm, five male offenders arrived at a store on Darryl Street in Scoresby, with police being told that four males went inside and one brandished an axe.

The group stole tobacco and fled in the jeep. There were no injuries during the incidents; as of now, no arrests have been made, and the Jeep is outstanding.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Wage Inspectorate Victoria to inspect venues

Wage Inspectorate Victoria (WIV) will be conducting inspections across hospitality venues, such as restaurants, cafes and fast-food businesses these school holidays to ensure compliance with Victoria’s child employment laws. Kids are more likely to be working during the school holidays, particularly in holiday hotspots where many businesses need to recruit staff

quickly to meet seasonal demand.

Employing kids under 15 can be a win-win, with businesses getting additional help during peak periods, and kids getting valuable experience and earning spending money. However, it must be done safely and legally to prevent harm.

Businesses employing kids under 15 must have a child employment licence and must ad-

here to strict conditions around the type of work the child may perform, supervision, working hours and rest breaks.

The rules around when children can work and for how long, are different during school holidays compared to the school term.

During school holidays, children can work up to 6 hours per day and 30 hours per week. WIV Authorised Officers will be inspecting businesses right across Victoria – we can’t be everywhere, but we can be anywhere at any time.

Businesses found to be in breach of child employment laws can face penalties exceeding $200,000.

Conductor Matthew Booth.

Finley (grade 5). (Stewart Chambers: 493762)

Casey tops animal cruelty

The City of Casey has topped the chart as the number 1 LGA where the most animals were seized or surrendered to the RSPCA’s inspectorate.

This comes as the RSPCA released its 2024-25 annual animal cruelty report, which ranks each Victorian LGA according to the number of animals seized or surrendered.

During the 2024-2025 financial year, RSPCA Victoria’s inspectorate responded to 10,206 reports of animal cruelty.

Neglect was the basis for the majority of all reports received, meaning members of the community had reported concerns for animals with a lack of food, water, shelter, or veterinary care.

Other types of neglect reported included poor husbandry, lack of appropriate hygiene and insufficient grooming, shearing and farriery for horses.

As a result of this, around 5 animals every day are seized by or surrendered to RSPCA Victoria’s inspectors.

LGAs ranked with a small number (e.g 1, 2, 3) had the most animals seized or surrendered, while LGAs with a higher number had the fewest.

For Casey, the total number of animals seized or surrendered was 162 compared to 49 in the 2023-24 financial year.

There were 1.16 reports per 1000 residents and a total of 470 reports compared to 506 in 2023-24.

The City of Casey is the most populous LGA in Victoria with 405,415 residents (ABS Estimated Resident Population 2024).

For Cardinia, it was ranked 23, with 28 animals seized or surrendered for 2024/25, 1.57 reports per 1000 residents and a total of 205 reports.

The Yarra Ranges was ranked 2, with Baw Baw 14, Bass Coast 54 and South Gippsland 31. The top three animals reported across the state were:

· 7300; Dogs and puppies

· 2203; Cats and kittens

· 1197; Horses

According to RSPCA, pet owners unable to afford the costs of providing for their pets and horse owners struggling to source feed are just some of the struggles RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectors are seeing firsthand.

In the last 12 months, more than 10,000 animal cruelty reports were made by members of the public, with 1870 animals were seized by or surrendered to RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate, almost double the number of animals seized or

surrendered 10 years ago.

Chief Inspector Michelle Green said, while malicious animal cruelty still occurred, it paled in comparison to the impact of the drought and ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

“While it’s frustrating to see malicious animal cruelty still occurring, our inspectors are seeing basic animal neglect much more often,” Chief Inspector Green said.

“In particular, reports of animals with insufficient food, water, or shelter skyrocketed compared to the previous year, along with seeing people really struggling to provide for the number of animals they have, including animals in hoarding situations (reports of hoarding up 48 per cent).

“Mental health concerns can also impact someone’s ability to provide the for basic needs of their pets, further adding to the complexity of our Inspectors work.”

Step it up for this year’s Walktober

This October, the City of Casey is encouraging residents to lace up their walking shoes and tackle some steps toward better health and wellbeing.

As part of the month-long Walktober initiative, locals are encouraged to get active, explore their neighbourhoods, and enjoy the benefits of walking.

In the lead-up to the Walktober Fun Walk/ Run at Casey Fields on Saturday, 4 October, Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen and Tooradin Ward councillor Jennifer Dizon took some time

to pre-trial the route.

“Walking is one of the simplest ways to improve your physical and mental health,” he said.

“It’s free, accessible, and a great way to connect with your community.”

The Walktober Fun Walk/Run will commence from 11am, and run until 2pm on the day, taking participants on a four-kilometre loop around the Casey Fields fitness trail, starting and finishing at the Playspace and Village Green.

Along the way, walkers and runners can also try out the various exercise zones.

“Taking the time to walk regularly can help clear your mind, reduce stress, and boost your energy levels,” Cr Dizon said.

“It’s a small step that can make a big difference to your overall wellbeing.”

After the walk, the Walktobert event village will come alive with music, food trucks, giveaways, prizes, and interactive stalls.

To register for the Walktober Fun Walk/ Run, visit www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1443443

in

Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic.org/who-to-call or by calling 03 9224 2222.

Cr Jennifer Dizon and Mayor Stefan Koomen trialled the trial for the upcoming Walktober Fun Walk/Run event, encouraging residents to sign up. (Supplied)

Animals

rural areas, especially horses, have been hit particularly hard as the drought impacts feed availability.

Horses found by inspectors. (Supplied)

Inspector carrying seized cats.

RSPCA’s interactive cruelty map showing all Victorian LGAs.

Levy debate heats up

By Afraa Kori

The latest in a series of regional protests against the Labor Government took place in Pakenham on Tuesday night.

The “Not In Our Name – Scrap The Tax” rally held on September 16, was organised by Meg Edwards, Nathan Murphy, and Cr Trudi Paton from Cardinia Shire Council.

Residents gathered at the Community Centre to voice their opposition to the new emergency services tax, sending a clear message that “this unfair tax must be repealed.”

There was a strong presence of local councillors including City of Casey Cr Shane Taylor and Cr Michelle Crowther, as well as La Trobe City Council’s Cr Adele Pugsley.

Cardinia Shire Council’s Deputy Mayor Cr Alanna Pomeroy attended, while former Mayor Bill Ronald made a surprise appearance. Apologies were noted from Cr David Nickell and Cr Brett Owen.

Mayor of Baw Baw Shire Danny Goss addressed the Cardinia crowd, saying “100 per cent” of his councillors support the local government opposition to being forced to act as unpaid tax collectors for the State Government. He was joined by Cr Jess Hamilton, Cr Brendan Kingwill, and Cr Adam Sheehan.

A large contingent of volunteer and paid firefighters, farmers, small business owners, parents and pensioners worried about the cost of living and the community turned up in numbers to participate.

Pensioner Marg reflected on the strain of rising costs despite her rebates: “I’m not keeping ahead with things, I’m going backwards. “I’m not going to survive. I’ll probably end up sitting in my little home all alone and just die because I can’t afford food.”

Locals expressed frustration at being “overlooked” and “dismissed” by a “city-centric” Labor government, saying it fails to adequately support regional communities.

The cuts to emergency services were also raised, including the ageing of firefighting equipment, with some trucks dependent on Melways maps instead of GPS and lacking basic features such as air conditioning.

CFA firefighter Rob Mackie, a proud volunteer for 41 years, is also a small business owner, faced a 100 per cent increase on his fire services levy for his small factory in Cranbourne.

“I have to work four days just to pay extra government tax,” he said.

“If I take time off work, I don’t get paid because I am self-employed—no one will cover my wages. So if I go firefighting, I lose income.”

A local farmer highlighted the issue of rates and the new tax being calculated on the ‘capital improved value’ of a property.

Many properties have dramatically increased in value due to neighbouring land being purchased with expectations of rezoning for housing or commercial investment, yet these valuations bear no relation to actual farming income from the land.

Dairy farmer and co-founder of Gippsland Jersey, Steve Ronalds painted the reality: “we’re asked to fund government spending like sugar daddies”.

“Since the pandemic, our cost has soared – power, rates and compliance. We’ve had droughts, we’ve had fires, we’ve had covid and we’ve got now the fire service levy,” Ronald said.

“For me it has increased more than 50 percent in the last two years and we still haven’t got the real one hitting us yet.

“Farmers, small businesses, and families are the backbone of the nation. We don’t want

handouts, just fairness. And if we thrive, the country thrives.”

Several speakers attempted to steer the rally off topic, creating tension. The discussion went beyond the levy, with issues raised including immigration, crime, machete bins, the Commonwealth Games, and the Greens–Labor deal.

Local farmer Simon from Meat Me At The Gate urged people to engage with voters rather than relying on the government.

“We need to have respectful conversations that end up in a learning mindset,” he said.

“It’s the voters that we need to talk to – we need

to change people’s hearts and people’s ideas.”

Residents asked what councils could do if they refused to pay. Councillors explained that every council will be fined if the levy isn’t paid.

Shadow Minister Bev McArthur, Eastern Victoria MP Renee Heath, Libertarian MP David Limbrick, and Narracan MP Wayne Farnham heard directly from those affected, engaged with the community, and addressed the crowd.

The Liberal Party reiterated its pledge to ‘scrap the tax’ if elected in November 2026.

MP McArthur warned “communities like those who came together at Pakenham cannot be

silenced, and they will continue to campaign tirelessly until this levy is finally removed”.

“My message to the Government is straightforward: the discontent in regional Victoria is not going away,” MP McArthur said.

“Having attended rallies like this previously, I know that unless Labor listens to these communities, more protests will follow.

“Emergency services should not be funded through a separate levy. Protecting the community is a fundamental responsibility of the government and should be financed through general taxation.”

Efforts against the state government’s levy are ramping up. (Nick Sinis)

Cardinia Shire councillor Alanna Pomeroy.

MP Wayne Farnham, MP Bev McArthur, MP Renee Heath.

Danny Goss who is mayor of Baw Baw Shire.

Bev McArthur MP.MP David Limbrick.Numerous CFA members were in attendance.

Gippsland Jersey’s Sallie Jones and Steve Ronalds. (Photos Nick Sinis)

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel and its five new underground stations, with three stations now complete. Work is continuing on two stations, and we’re testing trains through the tunnel to make sure they operate smoothly and safely.

While we work, disruptions could affect your travel

Train disruptions:

Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

1am 4 October to last train 5 October

Road disruptions: Closed ramps and road

Bald Hill Road, Pakenham

Princes Freeway, Berwick

Thompsons Road, Clyde North

Passengers change at Caulfield Station for Frankston Line trains to and from the city

Until early October In both directions west of Racecourse/HealesvilleKoo Wee Rup Road

Until mid NovemberPrinces Freeway citybound exit ramp to Clyde Road

Until late NovemberWarragul-bound entry ramp from Clyde Road

Until late December

Racecourse Road, Pakenham 30 September to mid December

Westbound between Matterhorn Drive and Berwick-Cranbourne Road

Between Henry Street and Cameron Way

Levy timing biggest hit

By Ethan Benedicto

As the new emergency services levy settles in, an expert says the severity of its impact stems from the already-existing cost-of-living constraints and declining confidence in the State Government’s ability to manage finances.

An applied economist and a professor at RMIT’s Department of Economics, Finance and Marketing, Ashton De Silva, added that the ESVF itself is not a “massive” tax, but the impact was on its delivery.

“It’s not introducing a new tax, it’s redefining an existing one, and that’s the core point to make here,” he said.

“What it does do is increase, substantially, the rates; so if you look across residential, commercial and industrial, these all have massive increases in contrast to what people were paying last year.

“I think it has the potential to really affect those people who are struggling most, those who don’t have a lot of room to move in terms of their savings versus consumption, paying home loans, there is now a tax that they would not have necessarily budgeted for.”

Further on his last point, De Silva emphasised that this stress also extends to the rental market, and that while “rents are tight” and many are “struggling to find places to live”, there is little incentive for the landlords to absorb the increase in cost.

That same effect also impacts small businesses, with the levy’s added cost “eating into profit margins”, with De Silva saying that people should not be surprised if everyday commodities residents enjoy, such as coffees, see “their prices start to creep up”.

“It’s to compensate not just the result of this tax, but also as a result of other cost-of-living pressures,” he said.

De Silva explained that the ESVF is interesting, in the same sense that a one million dollar property may only need to pay an extra $170 per annum, an increase he said “may not seem significant”.

“But, given the fact that we’re in this situation where the cost of living is increasing, and, in my opinion, the quality of life is not increasing either, this makes the increase very hard to swallow.

“There are concerns about public safety, there are concerns about medium-term economic prosperity; I think that there is a backlash because it’s not immediately apparent,” he said.

Having argued the point in past discussions, he said that any government will “struggle in this particular environment”, considering the mentioned pressures of the cost-of-living, and the fact that he thinks economic confidence in the government “is not strong”.

“I believe there is a decreasing confidence in the government’s ability to manage finances.

“And this tax, this increase, to do this in a way that is accepted by the community is extremely difficult,” he said.

The ESVF is calculated through the capital improved value, where it operates through the flat fee of $136.

It is the assessed market value of one’s property, and the ESVF uses the CIV, alongside the flat charge, to calculate what residents owe.

For De Silva, when asked if the CIV is an accurate representation of a household’s ability to pay the tax, he denied, saying it once more goes back to its unprecedented nature.

“In Casey and Cardinia, that growth belt out there, you have a lot of people paying mortgages, and a lot of people who have bought at a particular time on a particular mortgage, on a particular income,” he said.

“What continued to happen, because of the shortage of housing, is the increase in value; and even today, looking at some data, it seems that the growth in house prices since 2011 is more than the growth in wages.

“I don’t think it fairly reflects the ability of people to pay because it is an asset.”

The other factor was that the majority of the time, homes are not something people would purchase to “sell and make money”, rather, it is something that families have invested heavily in,

not just financially, but also emotionally.

“The house reflects your personality; it’s a very personal thing that people have had an increase in cost to,” he said.

“It’s the same with businesses; owners are people who put time and effort and make significant sacrifices for that business to continue; now they have to pay more tax.

“We’re talking about something people can just move out of, or find another business premises, and homeowners can’t just go and find another house.

“It takes time, it takes effort, and the emotional cost to that is very significant.”

On a broader scale, De Silva does not think that there is strong evidence of a shift to more asset-based levies, as compared to income taxes, and whether the ESVF is a step in that direction.

Instead, his understanding and observation is “a government that is extending taxes in ways that

are unprecedented”, something that is “causing a lot of concern”.

He added that if the ESVF had been introduced at a time when Victoria was growing economically, the reaction might have been different; however, “the community isn’t feeling that”.

“The community, at large, is a lot more uncertain than it was a couple of years ago, grappling with issues and feeling pressures that were not there before,” he said.

Due to economic constraints, people are less likely to invest, expand, or spend due to the uncertainty about future government taxes or policies, De Silva said.

This, in turn, creates knock-on effects, where communities see fewer jobs, fewer working hours, and overall slower economic growth.

Ultimately, De Silva frames the ESVF not as catastrophic in dollar terms, but instead as a policy mistake in timing, context, and delivery.

Cranbourne FRV firefighter and United Firefighters Union (UFU) Victoria delegate Geoff Barker was protesting against the levy on State Budget delivery day; this rally showcased the peak of what De Silva noted was bad timing and the lack of confidence. (Supplied)

FOCUS ON ... EDUCATION CHOICES

You’re so

welcome here, exactly as you are

Has school been feeling stressful, overwhelming, or just not for you? Maybe your teen has been feeling disconnected from learning, struggling to keep up in a large classroom, or anxious about attending. If this sounds familiar, ECG Secondary College wants to help.

At ECG, we focus on each student as a person, not just a learner. Our T.H.R.I.V.E. program provides a therapeutic, holistic, and vocationally-focused environment where students can:

■ Learn Your Way with personalised programs that suit their interests and goals

■ Build Confidence & Resilience in a supportive setting

■ Gain Practical Life Skills for everyday life and future work

■ Develop Positive Relationships with staff and peers who genuinely care

Hands-on, practical life skills programs are part of a broader approach to education that values wellbeing, connection, and engagement as the foundation for personal growth and long-term success. ECG is proud to support initiatives that empower students to find strength not just in their bodies, but in their character, mindset, and relationships.

ECG offers programs for Years 9-12, including the VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate, as well as project-based learning and applied learning opportunities designed to help students re-engage with school and prepare for further education or future careers.

If you’re looking for a school that understands your teen and helps them thrive, visit https://ecg.vic.edu.au/enrol-with-us/ or call 03 5622 6000.

Empowering future leaders

TheDepartmentoftheHouseofRepresentatives and the Y Australia are pleased to announce Expressions of Interest are officially open for the National Youth Parliament 2026.

Through this program, young people from all walks of life will engage directly with civics and the Parliament.

The program aims to equip 16–17-year-olds with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to actively participate in Australia’s democratic and parliamentary system.

Through hands-on learning experiences, including simulated parliamentary debates, workshops with political leaders, and real-world policy challenges, students will gain a deeper understanding of how Parliament works and the process by which bills are drafted, debated and passed into law.

Youth Members will travel to Canberra for a five-day (four-night) program held across Australia’s Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House. All costs associated with the program including travel and accommodation are covered by the program.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Honourable Milton Dick MP, said ‘The establishment and delivery of a National Youth Parliament program was a major priority for me as Speaker.’

“I am proud to be giving young Australians a brand-new opportunity to learn about civics and our parliamentary system. The future of Australia’s great democracy is in the hands of our young Australians, and this is one way they will be able to shape it for future generations.“

The Department of the House of Representatives is working with experienced Youth Parliament program provider, Y Australia to deliver the program. The Y has been running Youth Parliament programs for over four decades. CEO of Y Australia, Alexandra Ash, says ‘We don’t just want young people to vote when they turn 18, we want them to understand why their vote matters, how decisions are made, and how they can influence them. Education in civics and democracy is key to that, and we’re thrilled to work with the Department of the House of Representatives on this initiative.’ Why it matters:

■ Research shows that young Australians are increasingly disengaged from traditional politics yet remain deeply passionate about social issues.

■ Civics education has been declining in curriculum focus, leaving many young people unaware of how laws are made or how Parliament functions.

■ This program helps close that gap by giving students real opportunities to see behind the scenes and learn how the system works. Expressions of interest are now open. Young people who will be aged 16 or 17 in August 2026 are encouraged to submit an EOI at nyp.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au

No prior political experience is required – just curiosity, commitment, and a desire to learn.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply, as are young people from rural and regional areas or those from marginalised backgrounds.

Newly-elected Speaker of the House Milton Dick sits in the speaker’s chair in the House of Representatives during the opening of the 47th Federal Parliament at Parliament House in Canberra, Tuesday, 26 July, 2022. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)

FOCUS ON ... EDUCATION CHOICES

Your journey

Thinking about a secondary school for 2026? Our College Principal, Mr. Aaron Smith, invites you to consider Pakenham Secondary College for your child in 2026 and beyond.

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

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

Pakenham Secondary College strives to provide opportunities in areas important to our College Community – Student Learning Growth and Pathways, Sport, Performing Arts, Student Leadership and Our Community. Our new multi-million dollar building program will further add to our outstanding buildings and grounds.

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

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

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

There is a very strong sense of community at Pakenham Secondary College with students, families and staff connecting strongly to get the best outcomes we can for our students. We are very proud of our College and what we represent including how we best support all of our students.

I am proud to be the Principal of our great school, and I look forward to working with families, students and staff into the future to get the very best outcomes for our students.

I want to welcome families to the Pakenham Secondary College Community. I very much look forward to showing prospective families around our great school as part of a College Tour.

Aaron Smith, College Principal – Pakenham SecondaryCollege Book a College Tour through our website at pakenhamsc.vic.edu.au or call the office on (03) 5945 1433

Discover, explore, celebrate

At Minaret College, our students benefit from a well-rounded education that nurtures both academic excellence and personal growth. Our curriculum is designed to inspire intellectual curiosity, encourage creativity, and develop critical thinking skills, while our co-curricular programs provide opportunities for students to explore their passions beyond the classroom in all areas, from sports, arts, and leadership initiatives to community service and faith-based activities. Across three campuses in Melbourne’s south-east, and from pre-school to VCE, our students are empowered to become capable, compassionate, and contributing members of society.

We welcome you to a showcase of our academic and co-curricular programs at the Minaret College Open Day at our Officer Campus on Saturday, 11 October 2025 from 10am to 4pm. Enjoy a variety of engaging

activities, interactive displays, and vibrant demonstrations highlighting the talents and achievements of our students. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore our facilities and experience the dynamic learning environment that makes Minaret College unique. In addition, our campus will transform into a lively fairground, complete with thrilling rides for all ages, a petting zoo, mouth-watering food trucks, and an array of retail stalls.

Our Open Day is open to the entire community, and we warmly encourage you to bring your friends and family to join the fun. Entry is free, and for those who want to make the most of the excitement, an unlimited rides pass is available for just $20.

Mark your calendar, spread the word, and come see why Minaret College is more than a school – it’s a thriving community. We look forward to welcoming you on this special day!

At Pakenham Secondary College, ‘We Grow Through Connection’.

Sport is the key for youth

By Sahar Foladi

the

of

Roo

is calling for more funding and support to get more young kids off the streets and into sports.

Red Roo and its owner James Kerr posted their condolences to the families of the 12-yearold Chol Achiek and his 15-year-old friend, Dau Akueng, who were allegedly hunted and killed by a group of youths as they walked home after a basketball game.

“In our own program we see kids as young as 12 chasing their dreams through basketball full of hope, energy, and a love for the game,” Red Roo stated.

“To lose lives so young is a tragedy that shakes us to our core.

“Every child deserves to play the sport they love, to grow, to dream and to return home safely to their families.”

As an organisation, Red Roo nurtures young Sudanese boys onto the path of sports, discipline, accountability and education, moving them away from negative influences and anti-social behaviours.

Mr Kerr says they will support their own young basketballers as the community continues mourning.

“I’m telling the kids this is bad on a level that none of us ever experienced. It should’ve never happened, but it did.

“What we do about it is going to be on us but the one thing we don’t need to do is be scared or fearful. We shouldn’t be that way.

“Whatever the reasons that this happened, we must address it to the best of our ability and try not to let it happen again. But these eight heinous offenders must be caught and brought to justice and if that doesn’t happen, that’s on us.”

The privately-owned not-for-profit has independently sent almost 50 of its young local basketballers to the US on full one- and two-year academic scholarships worth up to $AUD 80,000 a year.

One of its main focuses is the emphasis on education, ensuring young people who are interested in sports carry on their education alongside it.

He says the community needs to step-up and organisations such as Red Roo, who have been making tremendous impacts for the past 10 years,

Tyre-shop owner jailed for crophouse

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A struggling tyre-shop owner who tended a large “sophisticated” crop of cannabis in his Eumemmerring house and granny-flat has been jailed.

Fadil Bedjeti, 41, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to cultivation of a narcotic plant in a commercial quantity, theft, handling stolen goods and drug possession.

In May 2022, police raided Bedjeti’s house, seizing 35 mature plants with a total weight of 109 kilograms from three hydroponic set-ups.

In sentencing on 9 September, Judge Kellie Blair noted there was a watering system in the hallway between two crop rooms, and an electrical bypass in the roof cavity to steal power and avoid detection.

“Your property was extensively damaged with holes cut through plaster walls and makeshift electricity circuits added to some walls.”

Police also seized 3.3 kilograms of dried

cannabis from a back shed and in a BMW, as well as a stolen excavator and trailer that Bedjeti said he “borrowed” from a man down the street named ‘Mick’.

Further dried cannabis and $8340 were seized from his tyre business at Thomastown. They also found $11,700 in Bedjeti’s pants pocket, $2750 in his jacket, $895 from the home kitchen counter and $124 from the living-room floor.

Bedjeti told police that the money in his pockets was from “banking” from customers and “not crime money”.

He also had cash from selling two cars, and deposits from three others, he claimed.

Bedjeti also denied owning the plants, saying two men ‘Paul’ and ‘Michael’ rented the rooms from you and put the plants there.

He was given instructions about watering, and was to be paid $2000 for “gardening”,

he said.

Judge Blair noted the 112 kilograms of seized cannabis was about 4.5 times the commercial cultivation threshold.

She found Bedjeti played a subservient but important role “akin to a trusted employee” - by providing the premises, and tending and watering the plants.

“I accept that your motivation was both to feed your own addiction and to receive a relatively modest profit.”

At the time of offending, his business and personal woes had compounded during Covid.

He’d suffered a significant hand injury at work, his wife and children separated from him and he started heavily using drugs to self-treat his depression and pain.

While on bail, he’d continued to run his business but had also resorted to drugs including cannabis, alcohol and meth to deal with the

need to be supported on all levels.

Housed at Hoops 24/7 on Princes Highway, Red Roo needs a bigger and better home, he says.

As previously reported by Star Journal, Mr Kerr had been eyeing the Gloria Pyke Netball Complex and Springers Leisure Centre as potential sites.

“We could do so much more. I’m looking to build a dedicated facility to help because you take that facility and pass it down in the community.

“It becomes a community centre with conditions. If you’re going to come in here, train and be part of it than you’re going to be accountable and responsible to the community.

“Somebody needs to dig and I will dig.”

Mr Kerr has been in discussions with Greater Dandenong Council on the topic and is set to attend an upcoming council meeting to raise questions and concerns as they are six months away from their lease’s expiry at Hoops 24/7.

He says he has met with the Sports Minister who have told them, “to go through Basketball Victoria.”

“We’re a model that competes with them and that’s the biggest reason there are a lot of people that don’t want us to survive in the marketplace.

“Everybody that works in local sports, state level and federal level is pretty much funded by the government.

“Ten years in the game, and (we’ve had) no support, what does that tell you?”

Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti commends the club for their 10-year track record however, he says because the club is privately owned, “it’s nearly impossible for council to support them.”

“I know they are a private company, not a local not-for-profit club - that makes it tricky with the council.

“What they do as an organisation is fantastic. How they can be further supported to grow within our community needs to be discussed.”

He urges them to apply for grants, even then “it’s always harder for them to get it” as council grants prioritise local not-for-profit clubs over the private clubs.

stress of his criminal case.

He’d also since been sentenced for drinkdriving, refusing a breath test, unlicensed driving.

Last year, he was jailed for nine days for drug possession, dealing with proceeds of crime and possessing an unregistered handgun.

Born in North Macedonia, Bedjeti had built his adult life in Australia in the past 20 years. But as a non-citizen, he was at risk of deportation. His house is now subject to automatic forfeiture, his business lost and he had lost contact with his family.

“It is apparent that the offending has cost you dearly,” the judge stated.

Judge Blair rejected a defence submission for a ‘combination’ sentence of jail and a community correction order, deeming it “inadequate”. Bedjeti was jailed for two years, with a 12-month non-parole period.

In

wake

two children tragically killed in Melbourne recently, basketball club Red

Sports in Dandenong

Hundreds of people gathered in Cobblebank for a candlelight vigil on Tuesday, September 9. (Jaidyn Kennedy)

For the past 10 years, Red Roos have been deterring young boys from Sudanese community away from anti-social behaviours. (Gary Sissons: 502512)

Red Roos Sports housed at Hoops 24/7 urgently need a new home. (Gary Sissons: 502512)

The privately owned club are struggling to secure support as local not-for-profit clubs are prioritised. (Gary Sissons: 502512)

James Kerr and Liberal state MP Ann-Marie Hermans, rear centre, with Red Roo players at Hoops 24/7. (Gary Sissons: 459823)

The private vigil at Strathtulloh Primary School welcomes the rest of the community inside. (Jaidyn Kennedy)

NEWS Together for dementia

A Together for Dementia event at Cranbourne West Community Hub was a small-step towards building a more dementia-friendly Casey, say organisers.

The aim of the Casey Council-staged event was to create a supportive and calm environment for people with dementia, their families and carers, and to build connection.

Timed for Dementia Action Week, the event on 16 September featured interactive activities that can be done at home, such as chair yoga and art therapy.

There were also conversations with stallholders, access to supports such as a national helpline, and resources such as sensory blankets, memory books and puzzles.

“The week) reminds us of the importance of raising awareness, breaking down stigma, and ensuring that people living with dementia — and those who love and care for them — feel supported, included and valued,” a Casey spokesperson said.

“Events like this are important because they create a safe and supportive environment for connection — community and compassion are powerful tools for wellbeing.”

Dementia rates are rapidly on the rise across Australia, with numbers expected to nearly double to about 812,500 by 2054.

Casey currently has the fourth highest prevalence in Australia – with more than 3687 residents with dementia. It is also fuelled by a growing population of over-55s.

The event was organised by Casey’s Ageing Well Team.

mayor Stefan Koomen and councillors Kim Ross, Michelle Crowther and Carolyn Eaves attended.

How preparation paid off and the lessons learnt

Ahead of a high-risk fire season across much of Victoria, CFA is highlighting the example of community preparation in Boho earlier this year as a model for all Victorians living in bushfire-prone areas.

In late February, a series of deliberately lit fires swept through the north-east after what had been a quiet, uneventful summer to that point in that area.

In total there were six fires burning in difficult terrain through the Boho Valley, including one major blaze that would test firefighters for weeks.

Former Boho Fire Brigade Captain Gary Washusen said the community’s commitment to property preparation, even late in the fire season, played a critical role in assisting first responders.

“It’s easy to think the risk has passed by the end of summer, but in regional Victoria there’s always the potential for fire,” Gary said.

Describing the challenge, Gary said the scale and location of the blazes made the firefight particularly difficult.

“When we arrived on scene in the pitch black of night, we knew we were in a bit of strife. Two separate fires were burning in steep, inaccessible terrain. One was heading uphill into private property, and the other was just half a kilometre away.”

Reinforcements arrived from CFA brigades across the broader district, joined by Forest Fire

Together, they held

Overall, the fires burnt more than 1,600 hectares through the Boho Valley.

Notably, no lives were lost, no homes were destroyed, and no serious injuries were record-

ed - an outcome Gary credits to preparation, cooperation and community spirit.

“It’s a community thing, not just a fire brigade thing. People banded together. Our community has been very well prepared and should be proud they’ve taken that on board,” he said.

“Prepare for the worst. Being fire ready and having a safety plan in place is critical and we know it works.”

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said Boho serves as a powerful example of the value of preparation.

“This spring we’re pointing to the example set in Boho to show how good planning makes a monumental difference for our first responders,” Jason said.

“Most homes lost in bushfires are destroyed by wind-borne embers, not direct flames. Embers can ignite decks, outdoor furniture, firewood piles and other flammable items around the home, sometimes when the fire front is kilometres away.

“Our recent bushfire community survey found that 85 per cent of residents in high-risk bushfire areas still don’t have a written bushfire survival plan, and 50 per cent perceived the threat of bushfire to be small or very small.

“That complacency is concerning, especially with forecasts pointing to a challenging fire season across many parts of Victoria,” Jason said.

“We’re urging all Victorians to use the leadup to the Fire Danger Period to get prepared,

clear gutters, reduce fuel loads, check pumps and equipment, and review or create a bushfire survival plan.”

CFA is holding a “Get Fire Ready” initiative in October, encouraging all Victorians to engage with local brigades to seek out information this coming fire season and to connect with their local CFA brigade.

There will be activities across the state beginning with the weekend of 4-5 October. Find out more by visiting cfa.vic.gov.au/about-us/ cfa-events/get-fire-ready.

Take the following actions to prepare yourself and your property:

· Move your winter woodpile away from the house or sheds.

· Prune tree branches so they are not overhanging the roof or touching walls.

· Clear your gutters.

· Keep grass shorter than 10cm.

· Remove leaves and twigs from around your property.

· Test anything that is part of your fire plan such as sprinklers, pumps and generators.

The quickest and easiest way to register your burn-off is by using the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/notify, or call Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 688 511. Make sure your household has a bushfire plan. Find out how at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/bushfireplan.

Management Victoria with bulldozers, excavators and aerial support.

the line.

Casey

Chair yoga instructor Feren Yen from the Australian Trauma Education Centre. (Stewart Chambers: 501500)

Casey Ageing Well Team members Gillian, Brooke, Erin, Catherine and Elly, (501500)

Cr Michelle Crowther, Janice Gibb, mayor Stefan Koomen, Cr Kim Ross and Cr Carolyn Eaves at Together for Dementia. (501500)

Luisa from Australian Multicultural Community Services. (501500)

Chair yoga instructor Feren Yen from the Australian Trauma Education Centre. (501500)

Powering down the bills

The City of Casey is offering a range of free sustainability initiatives to help local businesses cut their energy costs and reduce emissions.

In a move to support the communities’ journey toward net-zero emissions by 2040, Mayor Stefan Koomen said that with energy prices on the rise, the free programs “could make a real difference by helping local businesses save money and operate more efficiently”.

“That means more resources can go back into serving our community, supporting jobs and easing cost-of-living pressures,” he said.

These resources are listed below:

· Business Energy Efficiency Kit: Borrow a free kit to detect draughts, air leaks, and inefficient heating or cooling systems in your workplace.

· Business Energy Consultations: Email Casey a copy of your electricity bill, and their energy expert will help you find the most competitive energy plan for your needs.

WHAT’S ON

U3A Casey – Pyrographic Art

Calling all seniors to try this unique craft. Also known as Woodburning Art, Pokerwork or Wood Burning, this artistic craft can be done on wood, leather, cork, canvas …on most things that are non-toxic.

If you’d like to give Pyrographic Art a try, then come along. It’s easy to do, it’s creative, and it’s practical and versatile. Wood is provided for free, and a pyrography tool is available for use during the first session.

After your first try out, U3A membership is $30 (July to Dec) to continue with Pyrographic Art, or to take part in any of our other 75 classes.

• When: Monday from 10am to 12noon

• Where: Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris St, Lynbrook.

• Enquiries: Visit our website at www.u3acasey. org.au; Phone our office on 0493 280 458 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

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 U3A Casey.

Membership from January to December is $60, or from July to December is $30, 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: u3acasey.org.au

• Phone our office – 0493 280 458. Email uscaseyu3a@gmail.com

Balla Balla Community Centre Health & Wellbeing at Balla Balla

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

• Term 3 enrolments open 30 June online https://ballaballa.com.au/health-wellbeing/ or phone 5990 0900.

Morning Melodies

Join us at Morning Melodies for heartwarming performances filled with the songs you know and love!

· Business Energy Savers: Receive free advice on how to become more energy efficient and take advantage of the Victorian Government’s Energy Upgrade initiative.

· The program can also connect you with the Victorian Energy Upgrade Program and a selected panel of accredited and trustworthy suppliers who can take care of the upgrades and required paperwork.

· Business Renewable Buying Group: If your business spends over $100,000 annually on electricity, join this group to access competitive rates and switch to 100% renewable energy through a power purchase agreement.

· Victorian Energy Upgrade Program: Access government support to upgrade lighting, heating and cooling systems, energy-efficient appliances, hot water units, and shower heads.

· For more information or to get involved, visit www.casey.vic.gov.au/energy-saving-initiatives-businesses

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 the 2nd Tuesday each month and bookings can be made online: 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.

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

We meet weekly for a range of different events, including bus trips, community days, games, coffee and chat, bingo, dancing and carpet bowls. Not a member? Doesn’t matter, come along and join the fun.

Weekly activity times - Line Dancing Mon.10am12pm, New Vogue and Old Time Dance Tue. 1pm3:30pm, Carpet Bowls Wed. & Sat. 11:30am2:30pm, Bingo Thur. 11am-2pm.

• For all enquiries or bookings contact Marilyn mobile 0432 107 590.

• Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/ groups/487808127399953

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre

Sewing Classes – Thursdays during school terms9:30-11:30am - Learn the basics of sewing and make bags and simple garments. Sew for charity.

- $5 per session.

Conversational English Classes – Thursdays 9.30am-11.30am during school terms - Come along to practice and improve your English skills in a relaxed environment comfortable, casual classes with a friendly, patient tutor - $5 per class.

Intermediate Computers for Work - Thursdays during school terms 1-4pm - Build on your current computer skills and learn workplace apps such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook email

– Contact us for fee information.

Thee Coffee Table - Welcoming women’s community group - Every Friday - 11am-2pm - Free Career & Employment Counselling for Job Seekers – alternate Wednesdays starting 7th May 9:00 am – 1:00 pm - Career counsellors from Chisholm Skills and Jobs Centre are available to work with you on writing your resume, support you to apply for jobs or help you identify your next steps in looking for work. Fortnightly by appointment – Free

New Day Care Hours - NOW OPEN - 9am until 3pm. We have spots available in our nurturing and fun Day Care, which prioritises the wellbeing and growth of every child. Children from 2 months to 5 years can now attend from 9am until 3pm up to 5 days a week.

Call 03 5996 9056 or email mpcs@merindapark. com.au for more information or to register your child.

Volunteers are welcome to come and help maintain our community garden

• All the above are held at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre, 141 - 147 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North 3977

• For more information and bookings, call5996 9056

Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre

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, in-

cluding 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

Casey Cardinia Life Activities Club

The club hosts weekly social activities with dance to low-key in-line dancing if you want to tap your feet, great music, a chat, and then afternoon tea. Day, short and long trips away via coach, a weekly morning coffee club, monthly Saturday country pub lunches, monthly Tuesday dine-outs, a weekly walking group, a weekly table tennis group, seasonal daytime musical theatre outings, entertainment function days and more.

Anyone interested can visit on Thursdays at 2pm for socialising and low-key dancing at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House at 21A Bemersyde Drive or join the club for a coffee and a chat every Wednesday from 10am at the new François cafe in front of Myer in Fountain Gate.

• For more information, contact enquiry officer Gloria on 0468 363 616.

Balla Balla Community Centre Playgroup – Balla Balla Bubs for families with baby (0-12 months) and Playgroup (1-4years). All our Playgroups are led by Early Learning Educators and are a great opportunity for families to make friends, socialise children and enjoy craft, singing, sensory play, Storytime and more. Enrol online https://ballaballa.com.au/children-youth/ Health & Wellbeing – Pilates, Yoga, Zumba, Walking Group, Tai Chi - Regular exercise has been shown to help boost energy levels and enhance your mood. It may also be associated with many other health benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic disease.

Look after your social wellbeing by joining our Men’s Discussion Group – ideal for men over 50; Mindfulness Meditation – learn to enhance your self-awareness and recognise your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. This awareness can lead to better understanding of how one communicates and interacts with others. Further details onlinehttps://ballaballa.com.au/health-wellbeing/ Morning Melodies is back! Held the 2nd Tuesday each month. Our featured entertainers will sing the songs you know and love. Enjoy a cuppa, scone with jam and cream, make friends and have some fun.

Enrolments and bookings can be made in person or phoning the centre between 9am -3pm.

• Online enrolments can be made - https://ballaballa.com.au/programs/

Combined Probus Club of Narre

Warren

The club welcomes men and women to join for fun and interesting activities.

The club hosts bowling, armchair travel, book clubs, walk and talk, happy snappers and cards.

• For enquiries, contact Heather at hsims14@ gmail.com

Free sustainability initiatives are being offered by the City of Casey to help cut costs and reduce emissions. (On File)

Kids’ pool back on agenda

A revived kids’ shallow pool and waterslide are back on the agenda for the Doveton Pool revamp, following a recent public petition.

It is among four options for stage-2 of the project that are being presented at a Casey Council meeting on Tuesday 16 September.

Under stage 1, the 50-metre outdoor pool is being rebuilt with reduced depths, and the former kids pool and waterslide was planned for demolition.

However after a recent 2138-strong online petition from Doveton Eumemmerring Township Association, the council have reintroduced a kids pool and waterslide as a possibility.

DETA chair Josh Oostwoud said their inclusion would make the facility “more viable for families” and worth the extra $2.9 million cost.

“It will encourage more people to learn to swim and encourage more families with young kids to use the pool.

“I’m really pleased the council will consider this, and that they’re looking out for the interests of families in Doveton.”

Doveton College principal Debra Gibson said a toddler pool was important for the school’s families.

“Without the inclusion of that small pool, how does that cater for all the kids and their families? It’s important to have that safe place to go with lifeguards instead of paddling in the creek.”

However, out of the four stage-2 options, council officers have recommended a districtlevel parkland without a kids pool or waterslide.

The district level park includes 0.67 hectares of open space, nature and water play, active recreation infrastructure, picnic and social areas and public toilets.

At a cost of $2.6 million, this option was fully funded and received “strong community support”, a council report stated.

With this option, the three-stage project’s cost would total $16.2 million.

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

The other stage-2 options are a local-level park with a water splash area; an expanded water play area, and recommissioning a kids pool and waterslide.

According to the council report, the option of reviving one of the kids pools and waterslide was not fully funded and would push out the total cost to $19.1 million.

It would also reduce the proposed parkland and playground features, and may be non-compliant with the project’s $7.5 million federal funding agreement, the report stated.

The additional operational, management, and maintenance costs of a kids pool and waterslide were yet to be assessed.

Mr Oostwoud said it was “a bit frustrating” if the option was out of step with the $7.5 million

Seniors Festival fun in the Cardinia Shire

Throughout October, over 30 local events will take place in Cardinia Shire to celebrate the Victorian Seniors Festival. These events are made possible by the remarkable support of the Cardinia Seniors Network, which consists of dedicated and active older residents representing a diverse array of community groups across the shire.

The month-long program offers a variety of free and low-cost activities for older residents to explore new interests and create connections within the community. This year’s theme is “Connect, Create, Celebrate,“ inviting older Victorians to come together, discover new hobbies, and celebrate coming together in their community. There’s something for everyone!

Join in the celebration of positive ageing by participating in events and activities happening near you or across Victoria as part of this statewide festival.

Cardinia Shire residents are spoilt for choice with something for everyone to get involved in and have some fun.

A small sample of local events includes:

· Live Art Demonstrations at Moy-Yan Neighbourhood House

· Men’s Spit Roast & Wellness Day at Koo Wee Rup Men’s Shed

· Thursday Lounge Live entertainment at CCC

· Men’s Morning Tea at Fernlea Community House

· Pakenham and surrounds community garage sale

· Life in the Senior’s Lane photography exhibition and panel discussion

· Falls and Injury Prevention series with Monash Health at Cardinia Life

· Dementia friendly games days in Pakenham and Koo Wee Rup

· Bush bites - truffle delights, An indigenous experience with Pakenham U3a

· Anything You Can Do, Sip and See live performance at CCC.

Festival - Seniors Sports Day Cardinia Life Pakenham.

All events in Cardinia Shire are free or low-cost, and some may require booking in advance.

Victorian Seniors Card holders can also enjoy eight days of free public transport throughout Victoria from 5 to 12 October 2025; This includes access to all metropolitan services, V/Line train and coach services, and selected regional bus services. There are also plenty of events happening in the city and across the state throughout October. Highlighted events outside of Cardinia Shire include:

· Celebration Day at Federation Square on Sunday, 5 October

· ACMI Seniors Film Festival, 6-12 October

· Big Band Dance at Melbourne Town Hall on Tuesday, 7 October

· Songs of Judy Garland at Melbourne Town Hall on Thursday, 9 October

Residents can collect a statewide festival guide from Coles supermarkets or view the statewide events calendar at www.seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/ festival.

To view the full Cardinia Shire Seniors Festival calendar of events or for more information about the Seniors Festival, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/ seniorsfestival

federal funding agreement.

“The kids pool and slide were clearly on the public agenda. It shouldn’t have got to that point.”

Bruce federal MP Julian Hill said he would work to ensure Commonwealth funding remained available if “sensible improvements are made to the final design such as a kid’s pool or other child friendly water features”.

“Council is responsible for the detailed design, and I am confident that community voices are being listened to.”

According to Casey’s public consultation results, about 17 per cent of the 280 respondents raised concerns about removing the toddler pool and slide. This was despite the council survey not raising a toddler pool and slide as an option.

Casey Council officers recommended a stage-2 district-level parkland and playground, without a kids pool and waterslide. (City of Casey)

Joshua Oostwoud, chair of Doveton Eumemmerring Township Association, says locals want a kids pool at Doveton Pool in the Park. (Supplied)

Truly united success

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Pakenham last weekend took out the reserves State League 5 competition.

A last round 5-4 win over Aspendale confirmed Pakenham would take out the league, ahead of Seaford.

Both sides lost just one game for the season, but Pakenham’s superior goal difference ensured they would get rewarded for a stellar season where 56 players were cycled through the side.

“At the start of the season, we set out trying to win a flag and we did it,” coach Stuart Woolf said.

Wani Suliman scored the match-winner in the 81st minute.

It was just his fourth game for the club, joining to play alongside his brother.

Suliman’s story represents the transience of

the reserves lineup, with plenty of changes every week due to high participation numbers across the whole squad, with plenty of people attracted down to play under senior coach Dean Alburey.

“It’s been great because we’ve been able to give kids opportunities we didn’t think would get opportunities,” Woolf said.

“Each week there would be five or six changes so we gave everyone a chance.

“It was tough to coach with that many players but the resilience of the boys got them over the line in the end which was great Woolf gives the ougoing Alburey plenty of credit for the success.

Last season, the reserves scored 22 goals and conceded 109, with the score line similarly dire for the seniors.

This year, the seniors improvement into the top four has been mirrored by the reserves, which conceded 20 goals and scored 105, entirely flipping the script.

The seniors and reserves trained together during the week which gave the mostly young reserves side an insight into what it takes to play at the level.

“When we played (the seniors) on a Tuesday or Thursday night (at training), they were never embarrassed,” Woolf said.

“Players knew they could play at senior level and getting exposure against them really helped their development.

“There’s been a massive turnaround at the club and hopefully it gives them a good platform to step up and have a crack next year and win the seniors.”

Tough tests looming on horizon for Cheers

By David Nagel

Things are about to get spicy at the top of the South West Gippsland Dart League (SWGDL) with ladder-leading Cheers set to take on its biggest challengers over the last two weeks of the Winter Season.

Cheers go head-to-head with third-placed Snipers in the penultimate round of the season before a last up battle with second-placed Predators.

Finishing top two is crucial in the SWGDL, with a double chance provided for teams that finish in those positions.

Win this week against Snipers and Cheers will guarantee itself a top-two spot this season.

Five of the six matches were one-sided in round 11, with the exception being the clash between Gembrook and 26ers.

Both teams were coming off heavy losses in round 10, the Brookers losing 14-1 to Predators and the 26ers by the same score to Just Social. But this was a much closer affair; Gembrook sneaking across the line 8-7.

Predators continued their good form, winning 12-3 against Bullseyes with Jordan providing the highlight with a maximum 180.

Chris Burke had his eye in for Bullseyes, but his team had no answers for the second-placed team on the ladder.

There were also some highlights in Just Social’s 11-4 win over Generals, with Hayden finishing a strong leg with a magnificent 117-pegout.

Tony was in terrific form for Socials, throwing seven tons on the night, while JJ Jenkins threw three.

Liam Edwards, middle, threw eight tons for Cheers in a big win over Dart Devils in round 11 of the South West Gippsland Dart League. (Supplied: 321895)

Liam Edwards also found his groove in a 12-3 win for Cheers over Dart Devils.

Liam threw a rock-solid eight tons for the evening, and his teammate Ant seven, as the ladder leaders romped their way to victory.

Shane showed the depth of Cheers with five tons of his own.

Snipers were too good for Dart Vaders, with Dean Gibbs and Bill Richardson throwing six tons each in a 12-3 success that kept them in the hunt for the double chance.

And finally, AAA Dartz made it back-to-back wins with an 11-4 victory over Dart Attack.

AAA currently sit ninth on the ladder and will need to climb one more rung to play in the Don

Edge found in weekly challenge

By Laurie Bell

A countback was needed to decide the winning team in this week’s South West Gippsland Midweek Bowling Group challenge as players fine tune their games for the Pennant season ahead.

A great turnout of 46 bowlers headed to the San Remo Bowls Club on a day that was quite comfortable for the early weeks in spring. There was some rain around the surrounding townships, with a firm breeze and quite cool temperatures keeping the bowlers on their toes.

The best news was that there was no rain at San Remo; so, no interruptions to the game. The group was welcomed to the club by Bev and John, while Vern looked after the preparation of the teams.

The players then had a cuppa and a chat before being sent out to challenge their friends once again.

And what a day it was, with some magnificent quality bowling along with the usual sledging and laughter.

There were one or two wrong bias shots today, but that’s not a bad thing and always good for the filling up of the Royal Children’s Hospital tin.

The winning score this week was 35, with a countback required to separate the winners and runners-up.

This week’s winners were David Prosser (L), Alex Martin (2), Steve Edge (S) and Steve Muhi (3).

Brown Memorial Shield…for teams that finish from fifth to eighth on the ladder. Fifth-placed Mud Rats had the bye.

SWGDL SUMMARY

RESULTS – ROUND 11

Snipers def Dart Vaders 12-3, Cheers def Dart Devils 12-3, Predators def Bullseyes 12-3, AAA Dartz def Dart Attack 11-4, Gembrook def 26ers 8-7, Just Social def Generals 11-4. Bye: Mud Rats.

LADDER

Cheers 40, Predators 40, Snipers 36, Just Social 28, Mud Rats 28, Dart Vaders 20, Gembrook 20, Dart Devils 16, AAA Dartz 16, Generals 8, 26ers 8, Bullseyes 4, Dart Attack 0. FIXTURE - ROUND 12

Snipers (3) v Cheers (1), Predators (2) v Dart Devils (8), AAA Dartz (9) v Mud Rats (5), Bullseyes (12) v 26ers (11), Dart Attack (13) v Just Social (4), Gembrook (7) v Generals (10). Bye: Dart Vaders (6).

MOST TONS

Dean Gibbs (Snipers) 77, Liam Edwards (Cheers) 52, Ant (Cheers) 47, Tony B (Just Social) 44, Chris Richardson (Snipers) 41.

MOST 180s

Chris Richardson (Snipers) 3, Chris Burke (Bullseyes) 2, Ant (Cheers) 2, Dean Gibbs (Snipers) 2, John Bacic (Generals) 2, Troy J (Just Social) 2.

TOP TEAM-HIGH PEG OUTS

Shane B (Cheers) 139, Dean Gibbs (Snipers) 131, Doug Amos (Dart Devils) 129, Rod (AAA Dartz) 119, Tony (Dart Vaders) 117, Hayden (Just Social) 117, Brendan (26ers) 116, Jack Michalke (Mud Rats) 114, Steve P (Predators) 109, John (Generals) 97, Will (Gembrook) 76, Warwick (Dart Attack) 74, Scott B (Bullseyes) 70.

Runners-up were John Nicholson (S) Shirl Corcoran (3), Anne Shaw (L) and Bob Arnold (2).

Best One Game winners this week on a score of 19 - also requiring a countbackwere Max Summers (2), Vern Elliott (S), Al Weeden (L) and Gwen Jeffery (3).

A big thank you to John, Bev and Vern for all the hard work they do and also a big thank you to Mark behind the bar.

And thanks to Claire and Gwen for all their work in the kitchen; we really do appreciate the hard work our volunteers do to keep us all coming back week after week.

This week we will be meeting at Kooweerup to once again fight it out for team of the week. Please be on site by 10am to allow time to prepare the teams, because, unfortunately with numbers generally reaching our capacity we will have to be strict on a 10am cut-off time.

Meanwhile till then, have fun and stay safe.

Albert Mambo scored two goals in the last game of the season. (Stewart Chambers: 492408)

The winners of the weekly challenge were David Prosser, Alex Martin, Steve Edge and Steve Muhi. (Supplied: 503011)

Best One Game winners were Max Summers, Vern Elliott, Al Weeden and Gwen Jeffery.

Great escape for the Goon

By David Nagel

Nar Nar Goon will play Korumburra-Bena in this week’s 2025 WGFNC A Grade grand final at Garfield after an extraordinary finish to its preliminary final against Tooradin-Dalmore on Saturday.

The Goon looked gone for all money with two minutes left on the clock; the Seagulls two goals ahead with a centre pass to follow.

But some errant passing and missed opportunities in the circle gave the Goon one last sniff… and it pounced.

The Goon scored the last three goals of the match, with star-goaler Kyra Esler nailing a magnificent shot from long range - with the last possession of the match - to end a wonderful contest with the scoreboard reading 46-45 in the Goon’s favour.

Tooradin-Dalmore’s brave run from sixth place may have ended, but the Seagulls proved themselves a worthy preliminary final participant.

The pressure was enormous from both teams from the outset, with every pass and every single possession meaning something extra for both clubs.

The Goon and Seagulls both showed some understandable nerves in the opening minutes of the grand final qualifier, both making some uncharacteristic mistakes.

But the two combatants soon settled into their work, the Goon leading 11-10 after a very even first quarter.

The battle of the midcourt was intriguing, with Seagulls’ Stacey Sawyer, Keely Freestone and Summah Boyd standing up strongly to the experienced trio of Olivia Hamilton, Meaghan Winter and Alex Fenton.

Goaler Alex Maher was proving a reliable force for the Seagulls, while Esler and Darcy Utber were combining well in the circle for the Goon.

The Seagulls played the better netball in the second quarter, leading 25-21 at half time.

WEST GIPPSLAND FOOTBALL NETBALL COMPETITION NETBALL REVIEW - PRELIMINARY FINAL

Ash Bowden and Kelly Haynes tightened things up in defence…while the midcourt pressure was elite.

Nar Nar Goon’ s defence was right under the

pump, with Taylah Boatwood and Morgan Harris doing everything they could to keep their team in the contest.

Harris paid the price, just before half time,

with a collision of heads seeing her leave the court with a damaged nose and she would not return for the match.

Chantelle Dale filled her shoes and did a terrific job alongside Boatwood in the second half.

The Goon edged closer in the third term and trailed by one goal - 34-33 - as the last quarter began.

The last quarter had everything, including a magnificent atmosphere, as a large contingent of vocal supporters tried to lift their teams for one final effort.

Both teams lifted their intensity in the final term, with the Seagulls scoring three unanswered goals to lead by that margin midway through the quarter.

Nar Nar Goon then went on a run of its own, scoring five of the next six goals to lead by one and hold all the valuable momentum.

But the Seagulls would not be denied, nailing three in a row to take a two-goal lead, with two minutes left on the clock…and the centre pass to follow.

The pass missed its intended target; while some uncharacteristic missed shots at goal would ultimately prove costly, with a desperate opposition ready to make them pay.

The Goon went bang, bang…tying away the scores, before Esler produced the greatest shot of her career so far to book the Goon a ticket to the big dance.

The contrast between the pleasure and pain of sport was evident; the Goon celebrating wildly while the Seagulls were left to ponder the big fish that got away after a brave run through finals.

Bring on the big one…Korumburra-Bena taking on the Goon in the 2025 WGFNC Grand Final at Garfield on Saturday.

Kyra Esler was the hero for Nar Goon, landing a long last-gasp shot on goal to see the Goon progress to the grand final. (Stewart Chambers: 427113)

Trump cards on the table

By David Nagel

The final table is down to two!

Kilcunda-Bass, Warragul Industrials, Phillip Island and Cora Lynn have laid down their best hands and been eliminated; leaving Nar Nar Goon and Tooradin-Dalmore to stare each other down with all chips on the table.

There will be no hedging bets here, with Matt Shorey and Jordan Kelly set to go ‘all-in’ with the 2025 West Gippsland Football Netball Competition (WGFNC) premiership cup on the line.

There are more than four aces in this pack, with Nar Nar Goon chasing back-to-back flags and the cherished title of premiers and champions.

It’s an honour reserved for only the greatest of teams, those that go through a season undefeated and remain unconquered by all.

It’s the ultimate feat of dominance, with bragging rights secured for a lifetime.

The aces in the Nar Nar Goon pack are many and varied.

The trump card is skipper Trent Armour; widely regarded as the best player in Nar Nar Goon’s history who combines athleticism, skill, toughness, footy IQ and an uncompromising approach to his leadership as the five cards in his winning hand.

The Goon maestro leads a wonderfully balanced midfield brigade, with Aidan Pipicelli, Nick Hillard, Jake Smith, Jed Smith and Clancy Pope all benefitting greatly from the superb work of youngster Nate Pipicelli in the ruck.

But trumping that may be the Goon’s backline, with JJ Peni, James Cairns and Ryan Bromley the orchestrators of chaos and mayhem from half back.

If Tooradin-Dalmore is to pull a surprise, denying Peni and Bromley their run and carry will go a long way towards doing so.

Get through those boys, and Luke Bettio and ‘Blackwood Brothers’ incorporated - Jake and Sam – provide the last line of defence.

The Joker in the pack for the Goon is full-forward Dermott Yawney - who puffs his chest out on a weekly basis and entertains for fun.

Yawney has speed, has a leap, and can take a game apart in an instant.

Some would say the surname Armour suits the Nar Nar Goon skipper down to the ground, but it’s a player with an attitude that matches his own moniker that could prove the Goon’s undoing.

Savage…of the Shane variety…is a powerful unit who won’t take a backward step for anyone; Armour included.

Savage leads a strong contingent of three exAFL players that give the Seagulls the edge in extreme top-end experience.

Yes, the Seagulls have some young and un-

WEST GIPPSLAND FOOTBALL NETBALL COMPETITION GRAND FINAL PREVIEW - NAR

proven players on this stage, but Savage, Matt Buntine and Adam Oxley provide a platform from which to build on.

Brad Butler, Jack Flannery, Jesse Craven and Andrew Dean provide dangerous options up forward, while the run-and-carry of winger Logan Downe will be crucial on grand final day.

Oxley, Cooper Shipp and Brad Lenders are premiership defenders from 2022 and know how to get the job done, while the strength of Piva Wright could prove vital around the stoppages.

It’s a mouth-watering battle to savour; the Goon chasing the ultimate season for a football club.

“People says there’s pressure because we’ve

won every game, but we’ve done that, we celebrate that, but this is a different game, we know that, but our boys have been waiting for this time of year; it’s exciting and great fun playing in front of big crowds,” Shorey said of his Goon.

Kelly is also full of belief, but cautious, taking on what could be the best team in WGFNC history by 5pm on Saturday.

“I know our boys and what they’re capable of and they’re going to be a team that plays with no fear, and I think that’s always a pretty dangerous team to play against,” Kelly explained about his Seagulls.

“I know they can do it, and I really believe in them, but we’re coming up against a very impres-

sive team that has been basically untouchable at times.

“But I have full confidence the boys can get it done; we’ve got that top-end experience, combined with the young kids with no fear…that can accomplish anything.

“You play all year and the season can become that long grind; then this time of year comes around…this is why you do it.

“To get a shot like this, I couldn’t be more excited and can’t wait for Saturday.”

There will be no bracelets handed out at this table….only premiership medals.

They’re going to Trent Armour and the Goon… after a 23-point triumph.

Coach Shorey excited to put Nar Nar Goon spirit on show

By David Nagel

Nar Nar Goon coach Matt Shorey is as excited as a kid on Christmas Day as he prepares for Saturday’s WGFNC grand final against TooradinDalmore at Garfield.

Shorey returns to one of his former home grounds, desperate to etch a first senior premiership onto his coaching honour roll.

He insists the undefeated ladder leaders are ready to produce their best, rain, hail or shine… or even worse!

“Garfield means a lot to me, I played there for a season years ago, my wife is Garfield, I’ve got friends in Garfield, so it’s incredible to be back on that ground for the big dance,” Shorey explained.

“This team knows how to play the game, they play it well, they play the ground well and it’s set up to be a cracking contest.

“People are talking about the weather, but I don’t care if a tsunami comes; I’m so excited about this day…it’s what you play footy for.

“That’s what I’ve told the group, to embrace it, embrace the week and enjoy it.

“We’ll have nerves, we’ll have anxiety, but when the siren sounds we go out and showcase what we’ve done all year.”

Of course there’s an opposition to contend with - the feared underdog - and the added pres-

sure of going through the season undefeated.

Shorey expects a desperate Tooradin to hit the contest hard, but has full belief that the Goon will resist anything thrown its way.

“I know Jordy Kelly well and I’ve also been in his position, when you’re playing the top side, so I know different things will be thrown at us, a few moments here and there, but the one good thing this team has done really well this year is adapt to situations and not get annoyed when little things go wrong,” he said.

“It’s a team thing; it’s a very balanced team and that’s what has got us to where we are now.

“It’s a balanced team, it’s not about individuals and it’s all about performing as a team.”

Shorey said the team ethos is powerfully led from the front.

“It’s led by the captain (Trent Armour), there’s no doubt about it, the guy is incredible on and off the field,” Shorey enthused.

“He would give up his spot for someone else if it meant Nar Nar Goon would win a game of footy.

“He doesn’t like too much recognition Trent, he’s a very quiet man, but he’ll go down in history as the best Nar Nar Goon player ever.

“That’s where the team orientation comes from; from the top, and Trent epitomises that spirit at Nar Nar Goon.

“Hopefully we can showcase that team-first mentality on Saturday.”

Tooradin-Dalmore does have the edge in one area, AFL experience, and Shorey acknowledges the danger these players bring to the table.

Names like Shane Savage, Adam Oxley, Matt Buntine and emerging talent Jesse Craven will have a prominent place on the whiteboard.

“We have to look at their A Graders, they’re good ball users; Savage going forward was a good call from Jordy last week and a big factor in their win,” Shorey said.

“Craven spent more time forward as well,

they kicked six between them, they kicked 11 for the game, so those guys are damaging if they get off the hook.

“We’re well aware of that and we’ve got scenarios for every position they play; Oxley off half back, we’re aware of that, but they’ll be doing the same thing at Tooradin.

“One of their big guns could have a day out and we have to ready and prepared for that.” Shorey is focussed on leading the club to back-to-back flags and providing a huge reward for an incredible off-field team.

“The level of anxiety last week was probably more than now: I just wanted to know who we were playing, but I’m at ease a lot more now,” he said.

“I trust what we’ve done all year, I trust what the club has done and how it has set things up, and there are so many good people who crave success on the weekend.

“I always refer back to Paddy Noonan; a guy who does incredible things for the players and is always at the club, and I know the players realise how much it means to him and others as well.

“Glenn Cross, Chris Parker, these guys are great guys to run a footy club because they understand standards and culture…and they bring it.

“They want to make sure this club is successful for many years to come.”

NAR GOON V TOORADIN-DALMORE

Jake Smith has had a tremendous year for Nar Nar Goon and plays a vital role in a wonderfully balanced midfield. (Stewart Chambers: 484169)

The true spirit and teamwork of Nar Nar Goon exists in people like Paddy Noonan and Trent Armour; explains Goon senior coach Matt Shorey. (Stewart Chambers: 431763)

Premiership glory for Lions

By Justin Schwarze

Pakenham Lions Netball Club has finally climbed back to the mountain top after the club pinned up a senior flag on the wall at Toomuc Reserve for the first time in six years.

Pakenham’s Division 1 C Grade outfit clawed out one of the gutsiest victories in the club’s long and proud history, overcoming Seville in the dying moments to win 48-47.

In a tight contest that neither team could take full control of, the Lions narrowly led at every change before the Blues got rolling in the final term.

A monumental two-minute patch from Seville in the fourth saw it score six goals to one, including two streaks of three consecutive goals to jump into the lead and push out to a four-score buffer.

With less than seven minutes left in the season, the run pushed Pakenham to the brink.

The Lions attempted to wrestle back momentum and string together one final punch, cutting the deficit to one goal with two-and-a-half minutes remaining.

Another Blues score knocked it back to two and suddenly they were in a commanding position; just needing to maintain centre pass to taste premiership glory.

However, Pakenham regrouped to one of the most inspirational last-ditch rallies in Outer East history, forcing two Seville turnovers in the back half and taking full advantage by scoring the last three goals of the match.

The Lions converted the all-decisive goal with 25 seconds on the clock and when the final siren blared, the sea of maroon and gold around the Yarra Glen courts rose to its feet and the celebrations began.

Pakenham had stolen victory in the most unlikely of circumstances, grinding out a heartstopping finish that will forever be entrenched in Lions folklore.

Pakenham showed up when it mattered, being the only team to defeat Seville on the year with both victories coming in the finals series.

Kate Wicks from the Blues was named best on court in defeat as she did everything she could to try and get her team over the line.

“They talk about there’s no ‘I’ in team,” Pakenham netball head coach Karen Meredith said post-game.

“This team really exemplifies that.

“They work for each other and it doesn’t matter who’s on the court in what position, they just tag each other on and off.

“They take their opportunities when they come and when they come they work their butts off, they’re a really solid team.”

Playing coach Carly Saunders was thrilled to lead her side to victory after being part of the last club premiership back in 2019.

“We’ve worked so hard throughout the season, all the girls, every game, every training session, we’ve just worked and set our goal to this,” she said.

“It was just about being really composed during the game, I couldn’t be any prouder of them, that’s what I asked at the start, to just keep calm and they did it under all the pressure.

Outer East Netball Scoreboard

Sunday 14 September at Gembrook

FERNY

WOORI YALLOCK

Olinda Ferny Creek Goals: Matthew Scharenberg 5, Percy Hyett 3, Luca Smith 2, Daniel Toma 2, Ethan Greenall, Peter Lucas, Francis Seal, Jethro Von Hesse. Best: Matthew Scharenberg, Percy Hyett, Peter Lucas, Josh Wallis, Oakley Jessop, Patrick Seymour.

Woori Yallock Goals: Taylor Gibson 5, Jake Matthews, Benjamin Monkhorst, Ryley Monkhorst, Roy Ray, Hunter Ryan. Best: Jordan Williams, Taylor Gibson, Angus Smith, Robert Allen, Kane Thompson, Oscar Simpson.

RESERVES

UPWEY TECOMA

OFFICER 0.1

Upwey Tecoma Goals: Lachlan Hughes 2, Andy Sinclair 2, Thomas Brady, Declan Forbes, Blair Sheppard, Nathan Waterman. Best: Zac Orr, Andy Sinclair, Declan Forbes, Jordan Tailby, Jackson Hannagan, Simon Orenshaw.

Officer Goals: James Makrodimitris, Ryan Mibus. Best: Bowen Johnston, Jake Brady, Angus Clavarino, Byron Neale, Jack Hamilton, Brandon Allen. UNDER 18

“They’re amazing, we back each other up.”

Despite coming up heartbreakingly short in the C Grade final, the Seville Netball Club enjoyed a dominant day on the courts with the club winning flags for fun across the Division 1 landscape.

The first of the day came in the 17-and-under grand final where the Blues put together a fourquarter performance to down Pakenham 30-16.

Goals: Nathan Hathaway 3, Taj Kinder, Tyler Rawlings, Zac Rob, Sebastian Sottile, Brock Thompson, Owen Turnbull, Jack Watt. Best: Tyler De Jong, Nathan Hathaway, Archie De La Rue, Jackson Honey, Taj Kinder, Hayden Scott. Olinda Ferny Creek Goals: Samuel Boyd. Best: Cassian Hine, Lachlan Tonkin, Tom Ford, Luke Clifford, Lennix Barry, Tom Higgins. NETBALL

In the following game, Seville took care of business in D Grade after trailing the Lions at quarter time and the Blues ran out to the 28-20 victory.

A shoot-out in the B Grade big dance also saw the Blues triumphant, outlasting Pakenham 4644.

To finish the day, Seville made it four-of-five by comfortably dealing with Warburton Millgrove 60-48 in the A Grade final.

Josh Sharp. RESERVES ALEXANDRA

Alexandra Goals: Scott Heveren

Bart Wallace

Connor Heaslip. Best: Scott Heveren, Bart Wallace, Rob Andrews, Jake Steyger, Brendan Musgrove, Scott Hill.

Seville Goals: Trent Davison 2, Gordon Gosland, Lewis Melchiorre, Nick Sciortino, Reine Slattery. Best: Blake Cameron, Trent Davison, Tyler Petrie, Matthew Robinson, Josh Serci, Lewis Melchiorre. UNDER 18

PAKENHAM

Pakenham Goals: Zakery De Bono 7, Ryder Cachia, Lachlan Rice, William Wood. Best: Zakery De Bono, Samuel Sollberger, Lachlan Rice, Rhys Davies, William Wood, Jacob Stewart.

Seville Goals: Jack Freedman 2, Jeremy Arthur, River Benninga, Hudson Hams, Jackson Jansen, Corey Morton, Max Shepherd. Best: Max Shepherd, Jack Freedman, Jordan Fellner, Harry Holland, Jackson Grice, River Benninga.

In the Premier Division, ROC will lock and load with a shot at three flags on Saturday as the 15-and-under, 17-and-under and B Grade outfits contest in their respective big dances.

The A Grade preliminary final on Saturday was dominated by Wandin with the Bulldogs mauling Monbulk 65-41 at Gembrook Reserve.

Wandin will now aim to hand Mount Evelyn just its second loss of the season in Saturday’s grand final at Don Road Sporting Complex.

Seville Goals: Domenic Aloi, Blake Morison, Joshua Neal, Jack Nolan, Nathan O’Keefe, Sonny Saniga. Best: Sonny Saniga, Mitch Medson, Bayley Sciortino, Blake Morison, Jack Nolan, Mason O’Neill.

Warburton Millgrove Goals: Josh Sharp 2, Nelson Aldridge, Thomas Baker, Brock Caneva, Jakob Upton. Best: Brock Caneva, Thomas Baker, Timothy McKail, Patrick Huynh, Nelson Aldridge,

Smiles all round for the Pakenham Lions C Grade Netball team after winning the premiership. (Gary Sissons: 503007)

President Marg Jones, Carly Saunders and Karen Meredith celebrate the first club premiership since 2019. (503007)

The Lions had four teams feature on grand final day, a massive achievement for the club. (503005)

Pakenham couldn’t quite get across the line in the 17-and-under grand final. (Gary Sissons: 503005)

Invincible Lions hoist cup

By Justin Schwarze

The Invincibles.

Pakenham’s under-18s have written their names into the history books at Toomuc Reserve by completing an unblemished season with a triumph in the grand final against Seville on Saturday.

The Lions were the benchmark of the competition all season long, going 15-0 in the home-andaway season with an astounding 1107 percent.

Pakenham then comfortably dealt with the Blues in the second semi-final before outlasting a brave effort from the same side in the big dance.

After Ryder Cachia nailed the first of the match, a pair of goals to emerging forward Zak De Bono in the opening period set the tone for the massive day he was about to have.

More importantly, he put the Lions on top 3.2(20) to 1.3(9) at quarter time.

De Bono then caused mayhem, booting another three in as many minutes to blow the game open and apply pressure to Seville.

The response for the Blues came through River Benninga slotting the last of the first half to bring the scoreboard to 6.4(40) to 2.6(18) at the main intermission.

It was a goal frenzy out of halftime as the teams combined for nine goals in the third quarter with Seville managing five of them.

De Bono broke free for two more goals in the period, bringing his tally to seven, but the Blues were in striking distance by narrowing the deficit down below three goals at the last change.

The contest tightened up and became congested in the final frame with both teams struggling to score.

Seville looked threatening, despite missing some chances, but most crucially the Blues had completely broken the Lions’ composure.

Multiple 25-metre penalties led to Max Shepherd bringing the margin back to single digits; but it was too little too late and the siren echoed around Yarra Glen Reserve a few minutes later.

The final score read a 10.6(66) to 8.9(57) Pakenham triumph, the Lions’ only game closer than 27 points for the entire season.

Coach James Perkins became a back-to-back premiership mentor with the young Lions after bringing the ultimate success to Toomuc last year in the Premier Division under-19s.

“They really had to earn it,” he said of the game.

“They’re all mates, so it was really good to celebrate their last year of underage footy and they have a bond that will last forever now.

“To see the joys and relief on their faces was amazing.

OUTER EAST FOOTBALL GRAND FINAL REVIEW - PAKENHAM UNDER 18S

“It’s huge for the club and it’s so pleasing for the boys.”

Perkins’ program has been a revelation since he came across from Cora Lynn, guiding the age bracket to two consecutive flags after not fielding a side in 2023.

And the successes stem further than hoisting the cup; many of his players this season and graduates from 2024 have broken out and appeared in the senior side.

“It’s so good for the footy club going forward,” he reflected on the flag and the year.

“To know that you’ve got an influx of up to 30 guys in your seniors from the last two years that can lead the club into the next decade, that’s huge.

“To have a 19s and an 18s premiership, it puts the club in good stead.”

Best-on De Bono boots seven to cap off incredible year

By Justin Schwarze

Pakenham forward Zak De Bono is a star in the making after tearing up Saturday’s Outer East Under-18 grand final and being recognised with the best-on-ground medal.

De Bono was lethal in front of goal, booting seven majors on the day to propel the Lions to the pinnacle.

But to him, the premiership flag is the all-important achievement.

“It means everything, it’s reward for effort for all the lads, even the whole club,” he said postgame on hoisting the cup.

“It’s for all of us, we’re all in it together.

“It starts off with the coaches and the culture of the club first of all.

“The culture’s been awesome, coming across this year it’s been amazing.

“For the boys this year, I couldn’t be prouder.

“I stepped away for a few senior games myself and when I came back they welcomed me with open arms, so it’s been great for my development and the 18s as a whole.”

The rising talent has been stellar in his first year in a Pakenham guernsey after coming across from Officer.

He’s kicked 78 goals across the season with 60 in the under-18s, 14 in the seniors and four in the reserves. He won the under-18s league goalkicking title despite playing just eight games at the level, showcasing how dominant he’s been.

De Bono bagged 10 goals across two finals games and averaged six goals per game in the under-18s.

His performance on Saturday was outstanding as he was responsible for seven of Pakenham’s 10 goals on the day.

“It’s just the icing on the cake,” he said on being named best-on-ground.

“The main goal is the premiership cup and we got that so this medal is just finishing off the boys’ good work.

“It’s what I can repay them for this year.

“We’re a tight bunch of blokes so it’s awesome.

“There’s nothing better than rocking up on game-day and playing with your mates and keeping a smile on your face the whole time.”

De Bono proved he’s a big game player by kicking a bag of seven on grand final day. (503008)

Gun Pakenham forward Zak De Bono was judged best afield on Saturday. (Gary Sissons: 503008)

Pakenham’s under-18s are the 2025 Outer East Division 1 premiers. (Gary Sissons: 503008)

Pakenham was relentless in its chase for the flag, going undefeated on the season. (503008)

Sam Matti weaves through traffic in Saturday’s grand final. (503008)