CRANBOURNE CUP
Lucky locals dominate cup
By David Nagel
Cranbourne trainer Robbie Griffiths broke the drought and opened the floodgates when King Magnus swam through a heavy track to claim the 2021 Cranbourne Cup.
A local trainer had not tasted success since Ken Keys prepared Boom ‘N’ Zoom to win the biggest race on the Cranbourne calendar in 2011.
A year earlier, Michael Kent delighted the home crowd when Starmon was victorious in 2010, while the late Robbie Laing was the toast of the track after Sermon saluted with Mark Pegus aboard in 2009.
But for a decade, after Boom ‘N’ Zoom’s victory in 2011, no local trainer had enjoyed the extreme thrill of winning their ‘home’ cup.
But the win of King Magnus in 2021 was the start of something big, with local trainers dominating the race over the last four years.
The training partnership of Natalie Young and Trent Busuttin prepared Uncle Bryn for victory in 2022, before the recently adopted pairing of Ciaron Maher and David Eustace won their ’home’ cup with Charterhouse in ’23.
And last year, Michael Kent Jnr joined his father on the illustrious honour roll of champions when Globe led all the way to score a meritorious victory on his home track.
Kent Jnr was trackside celebrating his birthday in 2010 when Starmon stormed to victory under gun-jockey Glen Boss; giving his father his one and only taste of victory.
But it was ‘Juniors’ time to shine last year, with Globe giving co-trainer Mick Price his third victory in the cup in the last 11 years.
Price, now at Cranbourne but then training at Caulfield, prepared Pakal (2013) and Octabello (2018) to previous cup triumphs.
Kent Jnr was thrilled with the win post-race.
“It’s fantastic for the owners because we took a big punt on this race,” Kent Jnr explained.
“He’s a 17-hand horse getting around Cranbourne where I have my worst strike rate, and I thought, greed is good for a $500,000 race…what do you do?”
Globe is a lightly-raced six-year-old gelding, who exploded onto the scene, winning his first four outings in very impressive fashion.
He won back-to-back races at Pakenham, then was given a light freshen up before streeting his rivals in consecutive meetings at Sandown.
After his first-four starts, Globe had a perfect winning record by a combined margin of 14 lengths!
But injuries had since taken their toll, with Price and Kent Jnr finally getting him back to full
fitness for last year’s edition of the cup.
Price and Kent Jnr left no stone unturned in preparation for the cup, bringing Globe to Cranbourne on the Tuesday morning before the race to help settle his nerves for cup day.
”I think bringing him here on Tuesday was a good idea because he is a high nervous energy horse and he did belt out a bit of energy on Tuesday morning…but the kid (Ethan) did a good job on him,” Kent Jnr said.
“To win our home cup is a tremendous feeling.”
For Griffiths, the win of King Magnus in 2021 was a special moment in his career.
Griffiths has been a familiar face at Cranbourne for 30 years, when a young jockey decided to dip his toes into the training ranks after rising weight became a burden on his riding career.
Griffiths trained his first winner in 1992 – Go Raami – and won his first Group-1 in 2016 when The Quarterback won the Newmarket Handicap.
But for him, the Cranbourne Cup win ranked right alongside that Group-1 in terms of importance.
“This is big, this is very special because to win your hometown cup, especially this year, the inaugural running of the Cranbourne Cup, in our first year as a partnership, it’s very, very special,” Griffiths said post-race, regarding his newly formed partnership with Mat de Kock.
“Neil Bainbridge (Cranbourne Turf Club CEO) and the team have done a fantastic job so it’s very special.”
Jockey Lachlan King settled King Magnus midfield, but made a sweeping run around the home turn to emerge as a leading contender.
King Magnus dug deep in the home straight, surging with 100-metres to run to hold off the late efforts of race-favourite Our Playboy, with So Si Bon back in third.
The 2021 Cranbourne Cup meeting was almost abandoned before the first race, with three leading riders inspecting the track after unseasonal heavy rains had the track teetering on a heavy-10 rating.
But the rains, that had caused so much damage later in the week, finally eased to allow the program, which carried a record $1.6million in
prizemoney, to proceed.
No matter the conditions on Saturday 22 November; rain, hail or shine…local trainers will be desperate to claim bragging rights on the biggest day on the local racing calendar.
Alderson finds missing piece as Jigsaw completes puzzle
By David Nagel
A return to his home track has paid handsome dividends for the Cindy Alderson-trained Jigsaw who claimed his second Apache Cat Classic (1200m) at Southside Cranbourne on Friday night.
Jigsaw last ran at Cranbourne in November 2022, winning his first Apache Cat Classic by three lengths.
It began a supreme run of form; winning five of six races that would see his rating rise from 76 to a career-high 106.
While the consecutive run of victories was great for the bank balance, they pushed Jigsaw into the upper-echelon of Victorian sprinters; meaning group and listed races were the only fare on offer.
Hot competition, and the burden of heavy weights, saw the now seven-year-old gelding go winless at his subsequent 12 starts.
The son of Manhattan Rain/Demandz was sent out an $11 chance on Friday night; chasing his first victory since April 2023.
Apprentice jockey Logan Bates hunted Jigsaw out from barrier four, taking the lead and setting a steady tempo.
Jigsaw kicked for home on the turn, but looked a sitting duck as race-favourite - the Gavin Bedggood-trained Hedged ($2.60)loomed up with 100 metres to run.
But Jigsaw dug deep, giving trainer Alderson
was primed for an improved run.
“I actually rode him down the beach on Wednesday, and I normally love riding him, but I felt like I was sitting on a volcano,” a beaming Alderson enthused post-race.
“I thought, ‘we’ll get out of the water and we’ll go to the races’.”
Alderson said it was great to see Jigsaw back in winning form.
“He had a plain campaign last time around, and he paid the price for winning so many races,” she said.
“It’s fantastic, but his rating got too high and he’s just been in the wilderness for a little while.
“But this time around he has felt amazing and he’s really bright in the coat.
“The key to him is just keeping him happy, and keeping him doing what he likes.
“He just gave me the vibes; and full credit to Logan, what a fabulous ride.”
In Friday night’s other feature, star jockey Jamie Melham piloted the Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained Brave Miss to a dominant victory in the $100,000 Pinker Pinker Plate (2025m).
Melham stalked race-leader Saxon Beauty for a large portion of the race, before taking control with a furlong left to run and racing clear for a two-length triumph.
Jockey Beau Mertens took riding honours on the night; scoring a winning treble.
a huge thrill; on the same track where she learnt her craft from her father Colin.
Jigsaw won by a nose on the line, with
Hedged second, and Klabel two lengths away in third. Alderson said she could sense that Jigsaw
Logan Bates and Jigsaw, inside, hold off Jamie Melham and Hedged to win the Apache Cat Classic at Southside Cranbourne on Friday night. (Scott Barbour/Racing Photos: 509756)
Owners, trainers and jockeys are chasing the prized possessions on offer. (Supplied: 510425)
Ethan Brown and Globe hold off the fastfinishing Air Assault to win the 2024 Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup.
Casey chaos at Cranbourne
The Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup returns on Saturday, 22 November 2025, and this year it’s bigger, bolder, and unapologetically chaotic.
As the City of Casey’s premier social and sporting event, the Cup is a day where worldclass racing collides with fashion, food, music, and memories that last long after the horses have crossed the line.
On the track, punters can expect the $500,000
Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup and the $1 million Meteorite — both headline races that attract elite horses, champion jockeys, and the kind of nail-biting finishes that make racing so thrilling. Off the turf, the atmosphere is just as electrifying.
From vibrant hospitality precincts and stylish fashion showcases to the energy of General Admission party zones, there’s a space for everyone to find their own piece of chaos.
Entertainment takes centre stage once the last horse has bolted, with Dave Gleeson (The Screaming Jets), Tania Doko (Bachelor Girl), and Mark Gable (The Choirboys) performing live to ensure the celebration doesn’t stop when the races do.
This year’s campaign says it all: Come for the chaos. Leave with a story.
Whether you’re there for the horses, the glamour, the music, or simply to soak in the at-
mosphere with friends, Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup Day promises a spring experience like no other.
Tickets are on sale now, with GA early bird prices available until 1 November and a range of premium hospitality packages also on offer.
Don’t just hear the stories — be part of them. · Book now at southsideracing.com.au
Ladbrokes Cranbourne Cup: Come for the Chaos. Leave with a Story.
Southside Racing and Ladbrokes have once again joined forces for this year’s Cranbourne Cup; and it promises to be chaotic!
It’s not just the thoroughbreds that will take centre stage on Saturday 22 November. (510425)
Art connects
Among the artists was Cranbourne Secondary College student Zohal, pictured with her subject Mike, who won the Cranbourne Rotary Residents’ Choice Award.
“Now, for our aged care residents, meeting with the student might remind them of when they were children,” Cody Winnell, executive manager of Marketing & Communications at Lifeview Residential Care, said.
“They strike up a beautiful relationship, and I think each learns from the other.”
For more on the story, turn to
Fairway to homes
has been lodged to subdivide the former Cranbourne Golf Course for future housing.
The approximately 70-hectare site, bought by Brown Property Group in May 2024, is already zoned for residential use, and the application estimates it could accommodate more than 1,000 new homes.
The development is pitched as a “large urban infill opportunity” for the City of Casey, making use of existing infrastructure, access to transport, and local services.
The 2000-page application includes a risk assessment addressing the site’s proximity to the
facilities, citing nearby courses and future parkland at the site of the landfill.
page 3
proposed Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station and the active Hallam Road landfill cell 14B, located between 1.25 and 1.3 kilometres from the north-west corner of the proposed development, closer than the default 1.5-kilometre separation distance recommended by the EPA Victoria. Star News reported last year that the community would want the course to be a reserve or just a green space. Developers argue that despite losing the golf course, the community won’t lack
Relay’s deeper meaning
By Violet Li
Pakenham’s long-time runner Michael Soutter is lacing up once again for the Relay for Life at Casey Fields later this month, with a deeper purpose this time.
Michael has been one of the most familiar faces at the annual Cancer Council Relay for Life, an overnight community event that brings together teams to raise funds for cancer prevention, research, and support services.
“It was very special for the whole family. And then year after year, we just kept going back,” he said.
Looking back, Michael and his family first participated in 2011 to honour members of the family.
“It was about finding a way to remember them and celebrate them, and it still is a big part for us,” he said.
“But it’s not just around those people. It’s around cancer itself and making sure that we try to fight as best we can in any way we can, and make sure that we are doing what we can.
“There’s not much we can do, but we can get uncomfortable for a night, and it’s okay to get uncomfortable for a night when you see what others have to go through.
“It’s not really that hard when you think of the big picture of why we’re doing it.”
What started as a small team of six has grown into more than 50 people now, with friends, family, and members of the running group he started in Pakenham all joining in.
Over the years, Michael has completed endurance challenges for good causes, including a 24hour walk around the Pakenham Lakeside for a Beaconsfield mum to battle brain cancer.
In 2023, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
His friends and family raised about $30,000 in just over a week to help him get the critical surgery done.
Now cancer-free, Soutter said this year’s relay
holds new significance.
“Since the diagnosis, Relay’s always been really special with the fundraising and stuff that I’ve done. It’s always been really a big part of my year and my life,” he said.
“You look at it differently.
“You look at it and you go, the tests and stuff that we are able to do because of the fundraising that we do for Relay and the progress that the medical fields have had, and that is where the grants go to.”
The Relay also marks a return to normality for Soutter after the pandemic disrupted the tradition.
“When Covid hit, we had our cars packed, ready to go to relay. On that Friday, they announced they had cancelled Relay because of Covid,” he recalled.
“That Sunday was when they first locked us down. And then it had been a few years away from Relay because Covid just made it really hard.
“So, to have it back is now really nice.”
Lyrian Fleming-Parsley, head of Fundraising and Communications at Cancer Council Victoria, praised the passion of long-time participants like Michael.
“We continue to be inspired by the groundswell of community support shown for Relay for
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Life each and every year, especially by those living in the south-eastern suburbs. Whether it’s longtime, inspirational fundraisers like Michael and his family or first-time participants, everyone involved in this year’s relay can feel proud that they are helping us make strides towards a cancer-free future,” she said.
More than 350 local runners have signed up for this year’s Relay for Life, including more than 30 teams, and it will be taking place from 6pm Saturday 25 October to 12pm Sunday 26 October at Casey Fields Regional Athletics Centre, 160 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne. For more information: relayforlife.org.au
2026 Casey Community Awards The local gift guide
Nominations for the 2026 Casey Community Awards are now open to all Casey residents.
Scan the QR code to get started. Jump online, save time
There are multiple awards for individuals and groups acknowledging their contribution to the community. Nominations close Monday 20 October.
Who will you nominate?
Scan the QR code for more information or visit our website.
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Pakenham local Michael Soutter is lacing up once again for the Relay for Life at Casey Fields later this month. (Stewart Chambers: 510063)
$43m housing plan revealed
By Violet Li
A planning permit application has been lodged to subdivide the former Cranbourne Golf Course for future housing.
The approximately 70-hectare Cranbourne Golf Course at 750 Glasscocks Road was sold to Brown Property Group in May last year.
The site has long been zoned for residential use, and early estimates suggest it could accommodate more than 1,000 new homes.
The $43 million planning application proposes to subdivide the northern portion of the site as part of the first stage of a comprehensive redevelopment of the golf course for a new urban community.
“The residential development will add a new pipeline of housing supply within Casey, accommodating population growth in a structured and sustainable manner, while protecting and enhancing its natural and built environments,” the application states.
“The proposal will realise one of the largest urban infill opportunities in Casey, ultimately supporting close to 1,000 new homes at full development in a location that is well-connected with existing infrastructure, activity centres, transport, and educational facilities.”
According to the Group’s vision, the entire land is expected to deliver 1,140 lots, at a density of 16.3 lots per net developable hectare, and the northern portion will deliver about 499 lots, across 15 stages.
The 2000-page application includes a risk assessment addressing the site’s proximity to the proposed Hampton Park Waste Transfer Station and the active Hallam Road landfill cell 14B, located between 1.25 and 1.3 kilometres from the north-west corner of the proposed development, closer than the default 1.5-kilometre separation distance recommended by the EPA Victoria.
According to the report, leachate pond management, odour controls and the planned
closure of landfill cell 14B in 2025 mean the overall odour risk is “low.”
Consultants concluded the separation distance could be reduced to one kilometre without impacting future residents, noting significant upgrades to the landfill’s leachate system.
Late last year, EPA Victoria updated its Landfill Buffer Guideline, tripling the separation distance from 500 to 1500 metres for large municipal waste sites, with potential reduction to 1000 metres subject to odour risk assessment.
Star News reported last year that the community would want the course to be a reserve or just a green space.
The application report notes that while the Hallam Road landfill is licensed until 2040, it is expected to fill by 2030, after which operator Veolia will remediate the land and return it to the Casey Council.
“We note that while the subdivision will result in the loss of land currently used for private recreation purposes, the Hallam Landfill is ear-
marked for redevelopment as a major parkland in Clause 21.22 Hampton Park, which will significantly boost the supply of local open space available to the community,” the report states.
Developers also contend that the loss of the golf course will not leave the area short of recreation options, with several other clubs, including Ranfurlie Golf Club and Settlers Run, all within 10 kilometres.
They argue this ensures the Cranbourne community will continue to be “adequately serviced with golf and recreational facilities.”
The plans (PA24-0697) are currently being advertised, with residents invited to provide feedback. The official closing date for the advertisement is Friday 31 October, but, traditionally, residents can still submit feedback before Casey Council officially makes a decision.
To read the planning application and submit your feedback, visit casey.vic.gov.au/ view-planning-applications and search for PA24-0697
Major Veolia entity pays no tax in 2023-24 financial year
By Violet Li
Global environmental services giant Veolia paid no corporate tax in 2023–24 under its new Australian holding company, despite earning $1.1 billion in total income, citing “legitimate tax deductions designed to encourage investment and innovation in local communities”.
Among the company’s recent Australian investments in the past year is a joint venture for the proposed Maryvale Energy from Waste plant in Gippsland, a project that has drawn controversy in Hampton Park and the surrounding community, as reported by Star News before.
While Veolia did not confirm whether the investment fell within the 2023–24 financial year, the company stated that its substantial research and development and infrastructure projects contributed to the tax deductions, resulting in Veolia Holdings Australia Pty Ltd having no tax payable for that period.
While Veolia is publicly listed in Europe, its Australian operations are privately held with limited financial information disclosed.
The waste giant confirmed that they “did in fact pay corporate tax amounting to 20 per cent of their tax expense across their waste and energy operations after claiming research and development credits”, and “the part of their business under Veolia Holdings Australia was one of the few exceptions that didn’t have a tax bill in the 2023-24 financial year”.
Due to sensitivity, Veolia is unable to share the exact tax number they paid under other entities of their business for the 2023-24 financial year.
According to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO)’s latest Corporate Tax Transparency (CTT) report published last week, Veolia Holdings Australia Pty Ltd, the company’s major entity, declared $1.16 billion in total income and $13 million in taxable income, but no corporate tax bill.
The CTT report includes all corporate tax entities with total income of $100 million or more, whether private or public.
Many large corporate groups consist of smaller entities whose aggregated total income does not meet the transparency report threshold, but
that doesn’t mean no tax is paid.
Veolia has two other entities that made the list: Veolia Water Australia Pty Ltd, and Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions Process Australia Pty Ltd.
Veolia Water Australia Pty Ltd declared $406 million in total income, $4 million in taxable income, and no tax bill.
Veolia Technologies & Solutions Process Australia Pty Ltd declared $136 million in total income and no taxable income.
Those three entities under Veolia are among roughly 1,150 (28 per cent) of the 4,110 entities that reported no corporate tax payable for the 2023-24 financial year.
According to ATO, there can be legitimate reasons why entities do not pay tax, for example, they have an accounting or tax loss, or they utilised tax offsets or losses from previous years.
Assistant Commissioner Michelle Sams said while there are legitimate reasons why a company may pay no income tax, the Australian community can be assured that they pay close attention to those who don’t pay corporate tax
and ensure that they are not gaming the system.
In a statement to Star News, a Veolia spokesperson said there are three reasons why this particular entity, Veolia Holdings Australia Pty Ltd, had no tax liability for that financial year.
“First, some parts of the newly combined business carried forward tax credits from previous years,” they said.
“Second, our substantial investment in research and development earned us legitimate R&D tax credits.
“Third, we reinvested our profits in building infrastructure, to the tune of about $300m a year.
“We’re a growth company that puts profits back into the business, rather than extracting them.”
Examples of recent investments, developments and R&D in Australia over the past year alone include Acquisition of Orontide in WA, completion of a materials recovery facility (MRF) in Tasmania, starting another MRF in the ACT, installing Australia’s first robot arm at an MRF in WA, joint venture for the construction and operation of the proposed Maryvale energy from waste
plant, constructing an advanced soil washing plant in Hampton Park, and major renewable energy upgrades across every part of the business. The new holding company was established following Veolia’s 2022 acquisition of waste business Suez, which prompted a restructure of Australian corporate entities for FY 2023-2024.
“Veolia undertook a strategic plan to simplify several separate tax groups into one for greater operational efficiency, including those from the Suez merger,” the spokesperson said.
“As a consequence, Veolia Recycling & Recovery Holdings ANZ Pty Ltd was moved under Veolia Holdings Australia Pty Ltd tax group from 1 January 2024.”
The spokesperson said it is an Australian business serious about paying any tax that is owed. “When you consider our total contribution - corporate taxes across all of our business units, plus the taxes we collect on behalf of state governments through landfill levies, payroll taxes, and other mechanisms - we’re making a substantial contribution to public revenue every year,” they said.
Former City of Casey councillor slams citizenship email error
By Violet Li
A former Casey councillor has criticised a “lack of attention to detail” after receiving a mistaken email from Liberal MP Wendy Lovell, congratulating him on becoming an Australian citizen.
The mix-up follows an “administrative error” from Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell’s office, which accidentally sent the message to many Victorians on Wednesday 8 October.
Former Casey councillor Steve Beardon received the email and immediately realised that it was an oversight.
The email congratulated Mr Beardon on recently becoming an Australian Citizen at the Indigo Shire Council.
Mr Beardon replied to Ms Lovell that he was born an Australian citizen.
He received an apology email on the same night.
“I want to sincerely apologise if you incorrectly received an email from me congratulating you on becoming a new citizen,” Ms Lovell said in her email.
“I was sending my congratulations to a small list of new citizens in my electorate of Northern Victoria Region.”
Mr Beardon said he never lived in the Indigo Shire.
“I did actually speak to or email probably Wendy about the road conditions when I travelled through there,” he recalled.
“That’s how she must have had me on her
email list. She never replied to that.
“However, they must have a database, and everybody on their database emailed about citizenship.
“Obviously, they’ve contacted everybody on that database now to congratulate them, whether they were the newest new citizens or not.”
Mr Beardon said he felt very embarrassed for Ms Lovell.
Ms Lovell said her office is using a new communication package, and unfortunately, there was an administrative error that resulted in the letter going to a much larger group of recipients than the few it was intended for.
“I assure people there has not been a data breach and all personal information is safe,” she said.
A Veolia spokesperson said Veolia is an Australian business serious about paying any tax that is owed. (FILE)
Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell’s office sent citizenship congratulation emails to many wrong recipients on Wednesday 8 October. (FILE)
Faces of homelessness
By Jensy Callimootoo
The Council to Homeless Persons has launched a new Walk in Her Shoes campaign at Bunjil Place Library, to highlight the rising numbers of women and young girls struggling with homelessness.
The event involved an immersive exhibition, connecting lived experiences of homelessness to faces.
Three key women were central in sharing their unique - yet albeit too similar - stories, including Brea, a stern champion for youths suffering with homelessness, who used her own experiences to help others. As well as Diana and Vanessa, who both faced family violence.
Diana, who is now a forceful advocate for
those experiencing domestic violence, shared her own history of seeking refuge at safe houses dedicated to providing shelter to victims.
She also shared the stigma and shame that is often coupled with homelessness, and the hardships of pushing through existing beliefs on why people end up rough sleeping, championing the importance of raising awareness and with that – compassion.
“Empathy is the starting point for action,” Diana said.
New data from CHP’s 2025 housing security index reports that nearly 60 per cent of those struggling with homelessness are women and that family violence remains to be the driving cause.
The issue is remarked as pressing, coupled
with a rising cost of living, housing crisis and fresh data from the Crime Statistics Agency revealing an alarming spike of nearly 14 per cent in reported family violence cases in the City of Casey.
With an increase in numbers of people showing up at their doors, homelessness services and housing facilities are struggling to keep up, as their capacity to provide resources is inundated and social housing waitlists continue to grow by 7.4 per cent from the previous year according to CHP.
According to the report, “the decades-long lack of investment in social housing across the state”, can be attributed to the crisis.
Shari McPhail, manager for homelessness and housing at Wayss, said that it has never
been as difficult to provide housing to rough sleepers. That more needs to be done in collaboration with a number of actors to increase accessibility and manage the growing gap in available services.
Based in Pakenham and Dandenong, Wayss reported that in mid 2025, thousands of people were being turned away from their services due to the lack of capacity, with thousands more missing out on resources entirely.
Leanne Petrides, the executive officer for Community Information and Support Cranbourne, supported McPhail’s calls for more action, highlighting the stress on CISC volunteers who want to do more for people asking for help at their facilities, but are ultimately not being adequately supported by the current system.
Trafficker arrives at drug court with meth in Landcruiser
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A judge described it as “breathtaking” that a trafficker arrived at a Dandenong Drug Court appointment in a dubiously-obtained Landcruiser laden with meth and cash.
Shamit Naidu, 30, of Cranbourne South, pleaded guilty at Victorian County Court to drug trafficking, negligently dealing with proceeds of crime and resisting an emergency worker.
At the time of his arrest in September 2024, Naidu was on a drug court treatment order for similar offending.
He was approached by patrolling police, who recognised Naidu’s NSW-registered 4WD from a police circular that day.
The vehicle, with false number plates and a partially covered VIN, was obtained as part of
a fraudulent motor-finance application scam.
There was no suggestion Naidu was part of the scam, sentencing judge Gabriele Cannon noted on 25 September.
Inside the car were a portable scale, three deal bags containing 68 grams worth of pure meth, $2500 cash, empty deal bags, a glass smoking pipe and other people’s bankcards.
“It is indeed breathtaking that you thought it appropriate to drive a car which was clearly not yours with false registration plates to a Drug Court appointment with that car containing a significant quantity of methamphetamine and other accoutrements of trafficking,” Judge Cannon stated.
The amount of meth was 45.5 times the traffickable threshold, and 1.36 times the commercial trafficking threshold of the drug in pure form.
At a nearby bus stop, Naidu kicked and thrashed out at police as they tried to handcuff him. Police deployed capsicum spray to subdue him.
In a police interview, he claimed he didn’t hear police identify themselves as police because he was on the phone.
“I just seen four people jumping on me … what would you do?”
Judge Cannon accepted the resisting of arrest was reckless rather than intentional.
Migrating to Australia at age 11, Naidu grew up in “significant family dysfunction”. He was said to battle mental health and drug issues.
A painful, serious motorcycle crash in 2021 had limited his ability to work and led to heavy meth abuse.
Judge Cannon noted that Naidu was dealing drugs at a street level partly to support his
heavy addiction, as well as for financial gain. She was told that he had abstained from drugs since his arrest, including a two-month stint in residential rehab.
His promising rehab was cut short when he was found with nicotine vapes. As a result, he was discharged and returned to remand custody.
In August, his drug treatment order was cancelled and he was resentenced to 263 days jail for previous offending.
Judge Cannon noted that Naidu, who is a permanent resident, faced likely deportation after his sentence. It was not appropriate to sentence him to less than 102 days jail to avoid mandatory deprtation, she said.
Naidu was jailed for three years, with a twoyear non-parole period. It runs concurrently with his other jail term.
The panel at the event including Opposition Leader Brad Battin, Labor Minister Harriet Shing, Community Information & Support Cranbourne’s Leanne Petrides and Wayss’ Julz Nichols and Shari McPhail. (Gary Sissons: 509045)
An information display at the Walk in her Shoes event. (Gary Sissons: 509045)
Mayor Stefan Koomen, councillor Lynette Pereira and deputy mayor Melinda Ambros. (Gary Sissons: 509045)
Battin shares vision
By Violet Li
Victorian Liberal Opposition leader Brad Battin promised to restore “pride in Victoria” and reiterated his party’s policy to tackle crime and scrap several state taxes during a visit to the Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce.
Speaking to local business owners and Casey councillors on the night of Thursday 9 October, Mr Battin said Victoria had reached “a crossroads“, with rising debt, crimes, and business closures eroding confidence and investment in the state.
He may have come to Cranbourne armed with a tough-on-crime message, but it was taxes, red tape and small business costs that dominated the discussion for the large part of the night.
He said an elected Liberal government would scrap five taxes, including the Emergency Services Volunteer Fund Levy and stamp duty, and cut red tape to attract more business investment.
Mr Battin also said South Australia and Queensland were outperforming Victoria in attracting new business investment, warning that “developers and international investors are avoiding Victoria”.
“We will come out with a very detailed plan on what we’re going to do (to reduce some taxes for businesses),” he said.
“But we also need to make sure that we’re not taking any funding away from frontline services because you deserve the services that you need all the way across the State.
“You can’t cut hospitals. They’re already struggling. We can’t cut the police. That’s a pretty obvious one.
“You can’t reduce education because education outcomes are what’s going to drive the next generation, but you can change the way you deliver education and have it more a better model delivering excellence.”
Doors open
The Cranbourne Community Hospital was officially opened after years of waiting.
The plaque was unveiled on Saturday 11 October.
Operated by Monash Health, the three-storey hospital will provide a range of everyday health services, aiming to take pressure off nearby major hospitals, including Casey Hospital.
Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards said this is a huge win for Cranbourne families.
“Having a modern, local hospital means people can access high-quality care they deserve close to home.”
Services currently delivered at the Cranbourne Integrated Care Centre will relocate to the purpose-built facility, giving the community access to the healthcare infrastructure.
To ensure the highest standards of care, the Cranbourne Community Hospital will open services in stages, starting in October with dialysis, pharmacy, pathology and adult mental health services. Additional services, including aged community care, child, youth and family services, and Early in Life Mental Health Services, will become available in the coming weeks, and the next stage will include dental, audiology, and ophthalmology clinics for the public.
The hospital also includes flexible clinical spaces that will allow Monash Health to adapt services over time to meet local needs.
The State Government has proposed making it a legal right for many Victorian workers to work from home for at least two days a week, provided their job can “reasonably” be done remotely. The proposed policy has sparked concern over the land tax on home offices, which Treasurer Jaclyn Symes has confirmed during Question Time in Parliament that no such tax would apply.
During question time, local business owners raised concerns about potential land tax implications for people working from home and the State Government’s approach to flexible work arrangements.
attendee said the prospect of paying land tax on a home used for remote work was “quite scary” for small operators and single parents. Mr Battin also outlined a series of measures a future Liberal government would pursue to tackle crimes, including Jack’s Law to target knife crime, tougher bail conditions, and $100 million in crime prevention programs.
According to the State Government, strong links with specialists, community health providers and social support services will ensure seamless follow-up care for patients requiring more complex treatment. The Victorian Budget 2025/26 includes $16.81 million for Cranbourne Community Hospital, with a total of $51.93 million over four years. The Cranbourne Community Hospital, located at 6 Lehman Lane, Cranbourne East, will operate extended hours from 7am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday.
One
Opposition leader Brad Battin and Opposition MP for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Ann-Marie Hermans with the Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce Committee. (Violet Li)
Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce president Ian Wood with Opposition leader Brad Battin and Opposition MP for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Ann-Marie Hermans.
Opposition leader Brad Battin and Opposition MP for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Ann-Marie Hermans with Casey councillors.
MP Hill defends migration
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Bruce MP and assistant minister Julian Hill has taken aim at critics of Australia’s migration levels.
In a speech to a national migration conference on 10 October, Hill said “contrary to ridiculous claims … Australia does not have or suffer from mass migration”.
“Australia is not Europe. Australia is not the USA. Our migration program is orderly and our borders are tightly controlled.”
Hill, who is assistant minister for citizenship, customs and multicultural affairs, said this year’s permanent migration program was “steady” at 185,000 places – the “same as last year”.
“Many, including states and territories, actually argue this is a conservative level given our ageing population, strong labour market and family reunion pressures.”
Hill said “the extreme right” had latched onto Net Overseas Migration as “big scary numbers to frighten people in a grossly misleading way”.
Since borders reopened after Covid-19, the country’s Net Overseas Migration had rapidly spiked with the return of “partners, students, working holiday makers and skilled workers”, Hill argued.
“The rise in NOM was a bit higher than anticipated not as the Liberals and extremists pretend because of out-of-control visa grants, but because fewer people departed than expected due to Australia’s very strong labour market.
“These temporary visa holders are now departing in larger numbers contributing to a rapid fall in NOM.”
Hill gave “plaudits” to opposition immigration spokesperson Paul Scarr, in contrast to former opposition frontbenchers Andrew Hastie and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price who Hill labelled as “extremists or populists”.
Recently, Hastie quit as opposition home affairs spokesperson after saying Australians were “starting to feel like strangers in our own home” and blaming migration for the housing crisis.
Hill called on the Liberal Party to outline what cuts it would make to migration and what impact it would have on the economy.
He noted a “global war for top talent” while Australia’s population ages – with less workers for every retiree projected to worsen.
“Regional Australian economies across the nation would literally collapse without the contribution of working holiday makers in agriculture, hospitality and other critical sectors.”
Student artists connect with local aged care residents
By Violet Li
A Cranbourne aged care service has held an arts exhibition that connects different generations.
Lifeview Willow Wood hosted the Reilly Art Prize exhibition on Sunday 5 October.
Cody Winnell, executive manager of Marketing & Communications at Lifeview Residential Care, said the art program this year, named after the organisation’s executive director Peter Reilly OAM, pairs about seven local secondary students from Year 10 to 12 with aged care residents, with students painting their portraits over several visits.
At the exhibition, students displayed their final works, and prizes were presented.
Ben, a student from Wheelers Hill Secondary College, was the winner this year for the crochet he produced for resident Kathleen.
Charlotte from Monbulk College was highly commended for her portrait of resident Elizabeth.
Cranbourne Secondary College student Zohal won the Cranbourne Rotary Residents’ Choice Award for her portrait depicting resident Mike. This year’s Reilly Art Prize pool is about $5,000.
Mr Winnell recalled that Ben remarked to him that when he first saw the program, he thought he probably couldn’t be in it because he didn’t consider himself a painter or a portrait artist.
“But he knew he was good at crochet. So he decided to enter a crochet piece, which is the first type of that particular type of artwork we’ve seen in this competition in the two years that we’ve run the competition,” he said.
“And the judges chose that as the winner.”
For the purpose of the program, Mr Winnell said having different generations of people working together is something very special.
“The students learn a lot from the residents, and the residents learn a lot from the students,” he said.
“Now, for our aged care residents, meeting with the student might remind them of when they were children. It might remind them of
commended for
their own children. It might remind them of their grandchildren. It could be anything.
“They strike up a beautiful relationship, and I think each learns from the other. That’s certainly the feedback we’ve heard from both sides.
“From the resident’s point of view, we’ve heard comments such as the visits of the student are the highlight of their week.”
Mr Winnell said they wished to expand the program for next year and involve more local students.
The program is free to enter, and the only rule is that students need to be in either Year 10, 11, or 12.
Last year’s winner is Year 11 Emerald Secondary College student Luka, who was awarded a first prize for her portrait of Emerald Glades resident Doug on his drum kit.
Julian Hill has defended Australia’s migration program in a recent speech. (Gary Sissons: 486640)
Charlotte from Monbulk College was highly
her portrait of Elizabeth.
from left, Charlotte, Ben, and Zohal, with their awards.
Ben (Wheelers Hill Secondary) with Kathleen. His work in Crochet won the overall award. (Rob Carew: 508122)
Saturday 18 October 2025 10am to 2pm
Curious
Where everyone can shine
Miss Bridie Clark is the owner/artistic director not only of Australian Dancers Project and Theatre Stars Performing Arts School but also the President of Bats Theatre Company.
Bridie has extensive experience in Broadway performances. She returned home to Australia due to the Covid pandemic, and due to the extensive lockdowns and inability for performers to showcase their talents, she created the Australian Dancers Project initiative to allow performers to showcase online and also to undertake masterclasses with professionals during these challenging times. ADP has only grown from there with her putting in many hours developing new programs.
Her Theatre Stars Performing Arts School is
an all abilities, welcoming place where everyone is enabled to learn and develop their skills from singing, acting and various forms of dancing. Starting only five years ago it has steadily grown and sees outstanding growth from many students, with some going on to perform on stage in community theatre in roles they never thought possible. Bridie brings the world of theatre to those who might otherwise not get to experience this magical experience.
We need more people like Bridie who are willing to pass on their knowledge to the next generation. For further information contact BATS Theatre Company Inc., batstheatre.org.au or email: info@batstheatre.org.au
Space for kids
Empowering Kids Through Movement – My Journey with Melbourne Acrobatic Gymnastics Academy
When I first opened the doors to Melbourne Acrobatic Gymnastics Academy (MAGA), my goal was simple, to create a space where children could thrive through movement. I’ve always believed that gymnastics is about far more than flips and handstands. It’s about building confidence, resilience, and a love of movement that lasts a lifetime.
My coaching journey began when I was just 14 years old at my local gymnastics club in Queensland. What started as an after-school hobby quickly became a lifelong passion. I feel in love with Gymnastics from a young age, and sharing that passion through coaching is what I’m most passionate about in life.
Over the past 20 years, I’ve coached across multiple disciplines including Acrobatic and Artistic Gymnastics, worked in administration and management roles, completed advanced coaching and judging qualifications, and studied performing arts and personal training. Each step has shaped how I see child development, as a wholebody, whole-mind experience.
When I founded MAGA, I wanted to bring that philosophy to life. Today, our club has grown into a thriving, inclusive community offering programs for every age and ability, from babies in KinderGYM, to teens competing at the national level. We also run recreational, development, and school-based programs, along with our signature Fusion Fit program, which blends gymnastics, fitness, and brain development.
Creating a positive and empowering environment has always been my number one priority. Every child who walks through our doors should
feel seen, supported, and proud of their progress, whether they’re taking their first forward roll or performing on the competition floor. I’m equally proud of our coaching team, who share this vision wholeheartedly.
I believe in leading with empathy and empowerment. Many of our coaches started as gymnasts themselves, and watching them grow into confident,capablementorshasbeenoneofthemostrewarding parts of my journey. I’m passionate about developing future female leaders in sport, creating opportunities for young women to step into positions of influence and lead with confidence.
Our impact reaches beyond the gym, we work closely with local schools, families, and allied health professionals to make movement accessible for every child. Seeing the confidence gymnastics builds in kids who may have struggled in other environments is what keeps our purpose strong.
Like most small business owners, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges, from facility moves and growth pressures to navigating COVID-19 and rising costs. But every challenge has taught me something valuable about leadership, resilience, and staying true to your purpose.
Running MAGA isn’t just about coaching gymnastics, it’s about building people. It’s about nurturing a community that values effort, celebrates progress, and believes in possibility.
As a woman in business and a mum, finding balance can sometimes feel like an Olympic event of its own. But I’ve learned that success doesn’t come from being perfect, it comes from being passionate, consistent, and willing to keep learning.
Through MAGA, I hope to keep empowering kids, and their families, to move with joy, grow with confidence, and thrive for life.
Think resort-style facilities on your doorstep
Summerset Cranbourne North is more than a retirement village. It’s a vibrant, welcoming community of like-minded people who value connection, comfort, and independence.
Here, life is about doing more of what you love — and our brand-new village centre, opening in 2026, is designed to help you do just that. With resort-style facilities including a pool, spa, café, recreational bowling green, and so much more,* every day offers new opportunities to relax, connect, and thrive.
Whether it’s catching up with friends over coffee, staying active, or enjoying a game of pool, Summerset Cranbourne North is a place where you can truly feel at home.
And if your needs change, you can have peace of mind knowing you will not have to move out of the village.
Life doesn’t stop when you move into a Summerset village. It just gets better. Visit our sales suite anytime for a coffee and a chat — we’d love to show you around.
Love the life you choose.
Visit our sales suite
Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm
Summerset Cranbourne North 98 Mannavue Boulevard, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 | cranbourne.sales@summerset.com.au
*Pending completion. Images and facilities are indictive only. ^Subject to availability and eligibility criteria.
FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING
Keeping kids healthy
By The Better Health Content Team
Australia’s seasons bring more than changes in wardrobe and holiday plans—shifts in weather also bring an increased risk of illness for children. From hot, humid summers to crisp autumn days, cool winters and bursting springs, each season presents its own challenges. At Better Health Family Clinic, we see many parents worried about how to protect their children through these periods. With good preparation and informed care, many of these seasonal health issues can be prevented or reduced.
Why Kids Are More Vulnerable during Seasonal Shifts
Children’s immune systems are still developing. They are more likely than adults to have strong reactions to rapid changes in temperature, fluctuations in humidity, and new allergens. These environmental changes can stress their immune responses, increasing risk of respiratory infections, allergies, skin issues, and stomach upsets. Australia’s climate extremes—heatwaves, bushfires, heavy rains and flooding—also affect air quality, allergen load (e.g. pollens, mould), and exposure to infectious agents.
Common Seasonal Health Issues in Children in Australia
· Respiratory infections and flu – Influenza and viral respiratory illnesses peak during the cooler months, especially in autumn and winter. Dry cold air can irritate airways; humid warm air can exacerbate asthma.
· Allergies and Asthma Flare-ups – Spring brings high pollen, while dampness in winter or after rain encourages mould. These exacerbate asthma or allergic rhinitis.
· Skin Problems – In summer, heat rash, sunburn, and fungal infections are common. In colder months, eczema and dry skin flare-ups occur.
· Gastrointestinal Illnesses – Food spoilage in heat, poor hygiene after outdoor play, contami-
nated water after heavy rains can all cause stomach upsets.
· Heat-Related Stress and Dehydration – Particularly in summer, children playing outdoors are vulnerable to heat exhaustion, sunburn, or even heatstroke.
What Parents Can Do: Practical
Preventive Tips
1. Boost Immunity with Nutritious Food
Include plenty of fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables—berries, citrus, stone fruits in summer; apples, pears; greens during cooler months. Whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy (or alternatives) help provide necessary vitamins and minerals.
2. Hydration All Year Round
Ensuring children drink enough water is especially important in summer, but hydration supports im-
mune and bodily systems all through the year.
3. Appropriate Clothing and Sun Protection
Use sunblock, hats and protective clothing in summer. Layered clothing works well in autumn and spring because temperatures often fluctuate during the day.
4. Hygiene Practices
Regular hand-washing, especially after outdoor play or before meals; teaching children to sneeze or cough into their elbow; cleaning of surfaces at home.
5. Control of Indoor Environment
· o Keep humidity in check: use dehumidifiers or good ventilation to prevent mould.
· o Use air filters during bushfire season or when smoke is in the air.
· o Maintain clean bedding to reduce dust mites.
6. Vaccinations & Health Checks
Keep up with all routine immunisations. The annual flu vaccine is especially important. Check with your GP for any catch up needed.
7. Sun Safety
Protect skin with SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear hats, seek shade during peak UV hours (usually 10am4pm).
When to Contact Your GP
If any of the following occur, see a doctor promptly:
· Fever above 38 °C lasting more than 48 hours
· Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or chest tightness
· Severe dehydration signs: infrequent urination, very dry mouth, lethargy
· Rash that spreads quickly, is painful, or accompanied by fever
· Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea
Schools, Communities and Parents: A Shared Responsibility
Schools, childcare centres, community groups and families can all help by promoting healthy behaviours—hand hygiene, well-ventilated indoor spaces, awareness of air quality advisories, sun protection, and ensuring sick children stay home until they recover. Working together lowers the risk of outbreaks and helps children stay in class, active and happy.
Seasonal change is part of life in Australia—and for children, it needn’t bring undue illness. By being proactive—planning nutrition, hygiene, clothing, vaccinations, and monitoring early signs— parents can help their children weather seasonal transitions with strength and resilience. At Better Health Family Clinic, we are here to support families through preventive advice, prompt diagnosis, and compassionate care.
Let’s work together to ensure every child enjoys Australia’s beautiful seasons—safe, healthy, full of energy.
AI and dementia detection
Researchers from the National Centre for Healthy Ageing (NCHA), a partnership between Monash University and Peninsula Health, have developed a novel method for improving dementia detection in hospitals by combining traditional methods with artificial intelligence (AI).
Approximately 50 million people worldwide live with dementia, a number expected to triple by 2050, according to the World Alzheimer Report.
In Australia, there is still a need to substantially improve our methods for counting people with dementia. Accurate Identification is critical to understanding the true size of the problem nationally, and to be able to effectively plan services. However, routine health data that are currently used for this purpose probably underestimate the numbers of people with dementia.
Regular healthcare contact and hospitalisations provide an important opportunity to address this issue. Currently, in hospitals, dementia is recorded based on gathering of information in the medical records by medical coders, who find it difficult to look through the vast amount of written information in the records.
In a study involving over 1,000 individuals aged 60 and above in the FrankstonMornington Peninsula area, algorithms using traditional data approaches with AI in electronic health records demonstrated high accuracy in identifying whether or not a person may have dementia. Supported by national health bodies, the initiative could transform how dementia is identified, counted for national estimates, and managed in healthcare settings.
The Better Health Clinic.
Apartment future?
By Violet Li
Experts say apartments, representing compact living, are becoming the future for Cranbourne and the surrounding areas.
In late September, Star News reported that Cranbourne CBD could soon see an uncommon development, a four-storey apartment complex, with a planning permit advertised.
Following this report highlighting the emergence of apartments in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, Hardeep Singh, the director of Area Specialist Casey in Cranbourne, said apartments are the future of housing in Melbourne’s outer suburbs as families grow smaller and affordability tightens.
He said the traditional demand for large homes with backyards is shifting toward compact living as “micro families” become the norm.
“The future of real estate will be small houses, one or two bedrooms, where they don’t need to spend time cutting the grass, especially in Melbourne, whether in Cranbourne or wherever it is. Generally, it is raining or windy or too much heat. In all situations, people want inside,” he said.
“Apartment works better. First thing is security. Too much crime. If you own a house, somebody can jump into whatever. With apartments, nobody will access your property that quickly.
“The other thing is lower expenses. You will get better rates on electricity and water sometimes.
“And everything is in a walkable distance. Nobody wants to go far. Everybody wants to be close to facilities.”
Mr Singh noted that Cranbourne and neighbouring Casey suburbs are already seeing more multi-dwelling developments. He said that in the future, Cranbourne might see apartments with ten to 20 storeys.
Mr Singh believed that apartments are not only more practical but also more affordable for first-home buyers. “A two-bedroom apartment in Cranbourne might rent for around $450 to $500 a
and it’s just faster,” he said.
“If you’re building eight apartments, it’s faster to build eight apartments than it is to build eight individual houses.”
Professor Maxwell believed the key is to place apartments in areas that make sense —near transport and commercial hubs.
Addressing the perception that apartments are expensive to build, Professor Maxwell said that it was difficult to quantify. He said the single-house construction industry model in Australia is lean, flexible, adaptable, yet kind of fragile, and multi-residential buildings have more performance requirements, like fire safety and acoustic separation.
“But the site setup costs are lower,” he said. “If you have a plot of land and you’re building eight apartments on it, the cost of doing that work is pro rata cheaper than if you had eight individual blocks and you’re getting the trades to deliver eight individual houses.
Teenagers charged
Five teens, including one from Casey, have been charged after being allegedly tracked in a stolen car by police and attempting a carjacking in Dingley.
Air Wing officers located an allegedly stolen Mercedes utility travelling south on Lum Road, Wheelers Hill, just before 4am on Thursday 9 October, police say.
Air Wing tracked the vehicle through the suburbs before stop sticks were successfully used at Tootal Road in Dingley Village.
The five occupants fled from the vehicle and attempted a carjacking on Westall Road, Dingley, it was alleged.
The victim was not injured.
The teens then allegedly fled into the grass and were arrested by police.
week, but you could buy one for about $500,000,” he estimated.
Monash University associate professor Duncan Maxwell of the Art, Design and Architecture faculty said the emerging apartment trend reflects broader changes in Australian housing.
“In the past 20 years, I’ve seen it go from the expectation that you have a family and live in a house, to now it’s much more accepted to live in an apartment,” he said.
“There’s been densification in inner-city suburbs, and so to my mind, it’s logical that density would spread further out as we run out of land.
“The cities can only grow so wide, so big, for so long.”
He added that higher-density developments could be efficient. “When we’re building high-density apartments, they lend themselves to a bit more standardisation, a bit more replication,
“But it’s challenging to compare because construction costs are often expressed as per sqm, but it doesn’t take into account speed and environmental performance. It doesn’t take into account these other performance attributes that the more complex products have.
“It’s a little bit like comparing an apple not with a banana, but an apple with a pear.”
Professor Maxwell believed that in the long term, it would be more efficient to build apartments, and it would end up being cheaper to build apartments than individual homes because of those other costs that are hidden currently.
He added that a major factor is the industry’s competency and skills.
“Apartment building has a long history in Australia, but as a mass-market proposition, the proportion of multi-residential buildings has been growing over the last twenty years,” he said.
“Alongside that growth, more builders are trained to work on multi-story developments.
“It’s about enabling the market to grow while also expanding the skills base.”
online
They were charged with burglary, criminal damage, attempted theft and car theft.
Two boys aged 16 and 17 from the Greater Dandenong area, and a 16-yearold boy from the Casey area, have been bailed to a children’s court at a later date.
Two 14-year-old boys from the Greater Dandenong area have been remanded in custody.
The Mercedes vehicle was allegedly stolen from Grantchester Road, Wheelers Hill, on 26 September during an aggravated burglary.
The arrests were part of Operation Trinity, which is a dedicated operation targeting burglars and car thieves from dusk to dawn across Melbourne.
Detective Inspector Paul Cripps from Eastern Region Investigation and Response said five young burglars and car thieves have been arrested each day for the past year during Operation Trinity.
Please join us for light refreshments and engaging and useful information from our expert guest speakers:
• Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, one of Australia’s most prominent child and adolescent psychologists.
Michael will present on primary school age friendships, bullying, mental health and the spillover effect into when children return to school after these negative online experiences. Parents/carers can access strategies to support children in navigating their friendships.
• Cyber Safety Project was established in 2017 by two primary school teachers, the projects mission is to empower young people globally with skills and knowledge to manage their digital safety and wellbeing.
The Cyber Safety Project will provide information on:
º Cyberbullying
º Screen time
º Privacy settings
º Gaming Event details
Date: Wednesday 29 October
Time: 5:30-7:00 pm
Where: Wilandra Rise Primary School 25 Aayana Street, Clyde North 3978
Register: Scan the QR code Our expert speakers will be available to answer your questions. A Dari translator will be present, and supervised activities will be provided in the adjoining room for children, as they will be unable to attend the main presentation.
Hardeep Singh, the director of Area Specialist Casey in Cranbourne, said apartments are the future of housing in Melbourne’s outer suburbs as families grow smaller and affordability tightens. (Supplied)
Seniors gather at the U3A
By Violet Li
Cranbourne U3A opened its doors to the community on Friday 10 October for its
annual Open Day, showcasing the wide range of courses and activities available to local seniors.
Held at its site on Bowen Street, the event
drew more than 50 attendants eager to explore classes in art and fun activities.
President Helen Bell said it was a lovely day.
“It’s a wonderful social group for over 50s,”
she said.
“We’re really pleased to welcome anybody who comes along.
“Don’t do the dishes. Come here!”
Medicinal cannabis stigma weighs on working women
By Sahar Foladi
A forum exploring Women’s Health and Cannabis run by the Legalise Cannabis Party brought women together in Frankston.
Hosted by South-East Metropolitan MP Rachel Payne, the conversation explored the stigma and fear for women, especially employed women, who use medicinal cannabis as a treatment for a variety of health reasons such as endometriosis, perimenopause, Tourette syndrome, anxiety, and various other reasons.
A speaker diagnosed with leukemia couldn’t attend on Wednesday evening, 8 October, because she was worried about being sacked by her employer for using medicinal cannabis for her pain.
Panelists included pharmacist Lisa Nguyen and the CEO of a female-led dispensary, Astrid, and Tegan Scates, founder of Bloomly, an educational Australian platform focused on women’s health and cannabis education.
Medicinal cannabis is legal in Australia, including Victoria, but requires a prescription from a general practitioner or nurse practitioner. However, some women have to “self-advocate” to their GP to receive a prescription, pharmacist Nguyen said.
“There’s a big learning curve. We aren’t taught in pharmacy schools or university curriculum, so if you’re not taught, it’s not rolled out in day-today practice.
“A lot of doctors are in cannabis because they have seen patients benefit from different dose formats, and they’ve done their own homework.”
Ms Nguyen’s ethnic Vietnamese mother, who
had a lot of prejudice against cannabis, now uses medicinal cannabis for pain management after she was diagnosed with lung cancer.
She underwent surgery for lung removal, is on anti-cancer medications, but is unable to sleep and in a lot of pain.
Rachel Payne says there’s a medicinal cannabis industry association that hosts events for the industry professionals who are curious and would like more information on the topic.
She says more local doctors have reached out to her, and one common aspect is that their patients seek medicinal cannabis for sleep and pain management.
“So, we’ve started to see a lot more nurse practitioners who are really interested in offering prescription-based services.
“We’re also seeing a lot of doctors who are really curious about patients who use pain medications, such as benzodiazepines or opiates, who are looking to transition out of using those medications and accessing cannabis instead.
“We really want to see that shame and that stigma reduced, and that will happen when doctors become more educated about the benefits of cannabis.”
Ms Payne shared she used cannabis for all her adult life, for severe pelvic pain during menstru-
ation ranging from mild irritation to a “complete debilitating,” and anxiety all while being a “professional woman” working 60 hours or more.
Victoria is set to release an inquiry into women’s pain as part of the Women’s Health and Wellbeing Program to address challenges faced by girls and women seeking pain care.
It will provide recommendations to improve those models of care and service delivery in the future, acknowledging medical gender bias leads to denial of pain and lack of pain relief and similar treatments for women.
While medicinal cannabis is a prescription by GPs it doesn’t safeguard users behind the wheel if they are tested positive for cannabinoid chemical THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) but are unimpaired while driving.
The THC psychoactive effect of cannabis can last for few hours on average dose, but it remains in a person’s system for days or months while they remain sober.
A first-time detection through a saliva test penalises the driver with a 6-month suspension. Through their constant advocacy, the Legalise Cannabis Party secured sentencing discretion for magistrates when medicinal cannabis script-holders test positive.
Ms Payne says a lot of magistrates are dismissing the cases.
This is while Victoria’s “world-first” $4.9 million medicinal cannabis driving trial is being conducted by Swinburne University of Technology over 18-months to assess the prescribed medicinal cannabis effect on people behind the wheel.
The report is set to be out by late next year, in time for the State election in November 2026.
June and Rozanne were concentrating on Scrabble. (Violet Li)
Merrill was working on quilling.
Birdy Harcourt was enthusiastic about zentangle these days.
Lesley and Lynne were chatting and knitting.
Pharmacist Lisa Nguyen, Bloomy founder Tegan Scates and Rachel Payne were the featured panelists. (Sahar Foaldi: 509576_02)
Peter Teitel with his lovely kangaroo.
Angie Phillips was doing oil paintings.
Astrid Shannon, Helen Bell, and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards.
$15m cannabis crop seized
Eight people have been arrested and a $15 million cannabis crop dismantled after police raids in the South East.
Springvale Divisional Response Unit officers and other units raided a home on Havenstone Drive, Keysborough and a 20-acre property on Meadow Road, Devon Meadows at 7.30am on Tuesday 7 October.
Police allege eight suspects fled upon police arrival at Devon Meadows, and were arrested at the scene shortly after.
Five of them have been charged:
■ A 26-year-old man from Tenby Point
■ A 38-year-old man from Devon Meadows
■A 42-year-old man from Sunshine
■A 35-year-old man from Devon Meadows
■ A 49-year-old man of no permanent fixed address.
All five were charged with cultivating a large commercial quantity of cannabis.
They appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 8 October, where they were further remanded to reappear at a later date.
The 26-year-old man was also charged with possessing a drug of dependence.
A two-day search of the property revealed a sophisticated set up, with the crop growing in gardening igloos.
About 4,500 plants of varying maturity were removed from the property, with an estimated potential street value of about $15 million, police say.
The plants will be destroyed following forensic examination by a botanist.
Police also allegedly seized a firearm, and quantities of amphetamines, cocaine, ammunition and cash from the property.
Three men aged 32, 37 and 41 were released on intent to summons for cultivating a large commercial quantity of cannabis.
A man and woman, both aged 33, were spoken to and released pending enquiries.
New president for Casey ratepayer group
Casey Residents & Ratepayers Association (CRRA) has announced its 2025–26 executive committee following its 2025 Annual General Meeting.
Longtime local resident Alan Murphy has been elected as president, succeeding Brian Oates, who led the association through a year of active advocacy on key local issues. Continuing in their respective roles are Anthony Tassone (vice president), Andrew Goldsworthy (secretary), and Helen Horvath (treasurer).
“In my capacity as the newly elected President of the CRRA, I would like to firstly thank Brian Oates, the outgoing president of the CRRA, for his contribution over the preceding year,” Mr Murphy said.
“I also congratulate Anthony Tassone, Andrew Goldsworthy and Helen Horvath on their re-election as vice president, secretary and treasurer.
“I acknowledge the exceptional contribution made by these three, and all members, and look forward to working with them, and
all association members in the forthcoming year to advocate for the residents and ratepayers of the City of Casey.
“2026 looks like shaping up to be an exciting and productive year, with new projects and ideas planned that will not only enhance the presence of the CRRA but give residents of Casey an even stronger and louder voice.”
Outgoing president Mr Oates said it had been a privilege to serve as president over the past year.
“The CRRA has been a consistent and credible voice for residents, from our submissions to the Casey Local Law review, our strong opposition to the proposed waste transfer station in Hampton Park near residential homes, and our calls for accountability following IBAC’s Operation Sandon and alleged corruption amongst previous Casey councillors,” he said.
“These are all issues that go to the heart of transparency, community safety and trust in local government, and I am proud of what we have achieved together.”
Further charges are expected. Springvale Divisional Response Unit Sergeant Josh Gordon said the cannabis seizure was “significant” in “preventing millions upon millions of dollars’ worth from hitting the streets”.
“This investigation highlights the sophisticated measures alleged offenders use to conceal illegal drug activity.”
Caulfield, Prahran and Mornington Peninsula Divisional Response Units, the Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Policing Team, the Greater Dandenong and Casey CIUs, and Drone Capability and Support also assisted.
Success for SE
South East manufacturers have scooped this year’s Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards. Members of SEMMA (South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance) won six of the 13 award categories – and were finalists in eight categories. They included Amiga Engineering’s Jourdan Webb, who won the Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year. Amiga Engineering also took out the Small Business Manufacturer of the Year. Other winners were:
■ Alstom (Large Business Manufacturer of the Year)
■ Multipanel (Leader in Construction Technologies)
■ A W Bell (Leader in Gender Equality and Inclusion)
■ Volgren (Leader in Transport and Rail) SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker said it was further proof that South East Melbourne was the nation’s “manufacturing powerhouse”, as reported in a GSEM Deloitte paper recently.
Longtime local resident Alan Murphy was elected as the new president of CRRA for the next year. (Supplied)
Slot-car racing
Relive childhood memories, share laughs, and enjoy the thrill of the track with fellow enthusiasts.
• Thursday 16 October, 10am-12pm at Mr Slot Car, 3/42-46 Hallam South Road, Hallam; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positivelyfestival
Waste tour
Ever wondered what happens to your waste after it leaves the kerb? Join us for a guided bus tour from Bunjil Place to key facilities including a composting facility, closed landfill, general waste processor, and recycling education centre.
• Thursday 16 October 9am-4.30pm at Bunjil Place, 2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren; free. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positivelyfestival
Park history tour
Aboard a comfortable, accessible shuttle, you can explore the beauty and history of Wilson Botanic Park with a knowledgeable guide. Tea, coffee, biscuits after the tour.
• Thursday 16 October 10.30am-11.30am at Wilson Botanic Park, 668 Princes Highway, Berwick; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Intro to chess
Perfect for beginners or those wanting to refresh their skills. No experience required. Morning tea provided.
• Thursday 16 October 11am-1pm at AVEO Botanic Gardens Retirement Village, 41 Craig Road, Junction Village; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov. au/ageing-positively-festival
Light-paced dance
Move to the music at your own pace in this light and social dance session. Morning tea provided.
• Thursday 16 October 12pm-12.45pm at Casey Stadium, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ ageing-positively-festival
Myuna Farm walks
Join us for a walk around the Myuna Farm wetlands this Walktober. Free admission to Myuna Farm is included with your ticket.
• Thursdays during October 11am-12pm at Myuna Farm, 182 Kidds Road, Doveton; free event
Trades & Services
Music for young and old Live music featuring rising stars from Louise Berkelmans Vocal Performance School and the seasoned sounds of Bluegrass band Weathered Heads. Light refreshments, tea, coffee, wine, and beer available for purchase.
• Friday 17 October 6.30pm-10pm at Old Cheese Factory, 54 Homestead Road, Berwick; $15. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Village open day market
Mix of resident-run stalls, barbecue and coffee cart.
• Sunday 19 October 9am-1pm at Blue Hills Residences, 125 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East. Free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ ageing-positively-festival
Scams awareness
Free workshop and high tea for seniors, CALD and all abilities communities. Learn how to spot scams, protect your information and stay safe online with Scamwatch. Includes Q&A, tips and a catered high tea.
• Tuesday 21 October 10am-12pm at Balla Balla Community Centre; free event. Bookings essential at balla.balla.com.au or 5990 0900.
Downsizing and decluttering
Learn practical ways to responsibly dispose of unwanted items. We’ll cover recycling tips, where to take specific items, bin guidelines, and alternative options. Light refreshments provided.
• Tuesday 21 October 1pm-3pm at Timbarra Community Centre, Timbarra Way, Berwick; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Rainbow bingo
Get ready to slay with the fabulous Bobbee Pinn in an afternoon of dazzling performances, cheeky banter, and bingo fun!
• Tuesday 21 October 2pm-4pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Boulevard, Cranbourne West; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ ageing-positively-festival Plan for retirement
Bestselling author and podcast host Bec Wilson gives practical insights on purpose, finances, wellbeing, and staying connected.
• Wednesday 22 October 10am-12pm at 25 Concerto Street, Clyde; free event. Details: casey.vic. gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Morning Melodies
Relax and enjoy some live music with Rob Foenander at Berwick Neighbourhood Centre. Includes morning tea from CWA Berwick.
• Wednesday 22 October 10.30am-11.45am at Timbarra Community Hall, 20-26 Parkhill Drive, Berwick; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Come and try gentle exercise
Try a low-impact session designed to support mobility, strength, and endurance - perfect for all abilities and can be done seated. Supported by Reclink Victoria. No experience needed.
• Wednesday 22 October 11.30am-12.30pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Boulevard, Cranbourne West; free event. Details: casey. vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Intro to Bridge
Bridge is a fun, social card game that keeps your mind sharp and memory active. Join Berwick Bridge Club for a free introductory session.
• Wednesday 22 October 1pm-3pm at Brentwood Park Neighbourhood House, 21a Bemersyde Drive, Berwick; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Double Ninth Festival
A cherished day in Chinese culture observed on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month that honours ancestors, promotes longevity, and expresses respect for elders.
• Friday 24 October 10.30am-1.30pm at Casey Seniors Club, 5 Rebound Court, Narre Warren; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positivelyfestival
Puppet show for pre-schoolers
Puppet Kerfuffle - All About the Animals Show – a lively puppet show for pre-schoolers with stories, songs, and laughs. Children will explore resilience, uniqueness, and adapting to change, while learning about their rights in a fun and age-appropriate way.
• Friday 24 October 10.30am -11.30am at Balla Balla Community Centre; free event. Bookings essential at balla.balla.com.au or 5990 0900.
Rhythms of Punjab
Traditional music, dance, crafts, and storytelling. Enjoy Bhangra, Giddha, wellness activities, art workshops, and snacks in our cultural cafe.
• Friday 24 October 5.30pm-8pm at Punjabi Society Australia, 20 Eliston Ave , Clyde North; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positivelyfestival Car boot sale
Come and grab a bargain or earn some money in Berwick and District Agricultural and Horticultural Society’s Trash and Treasure sale. Stallholders wanted - 3 x 3 outdoor sites for $20 and car only $10.
• Saturday 25 October, 8am-2pm at Akoonah Park Berwick. Bookings: 0407 866 049 Treasure trove market
Handmade crafts, second-hand treasures, and interactive stalls from local senior groups. Live demos, intergenerational activities at the library.
• Saturday 25 October 10am-1pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub , 4 Flicka Boulevard, Cranbourne West; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ ageing-positively-festival
Open Studios
Talented artists and makers open their doors for visitors to take free self-guided tours through their studios, workshops, galleries and gardens. Includes live demos, creative workshops and locallycrafted artworks.
• Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October at various venues in the South East. No bookings required. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/events/open-studiosweekend-2025
Diwali festival
Stockland Evergreen presents Bollywood dance performance, Diwali DJ and live music, Indian food truck, kids craft station.
• Saturday, 25 October 2025, 11am-2pm at Evergreen Park, Zion Parade, Clyde. Free event. U3A Casey seniors showcase
Free-to-enter event includes displays and demos for more than 75 different activities, including pyrographic art, mahjong, tai chi, book clubs, art classes, pickleball, music, crafts and dancing. Refreshments including Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine available.
• Sunday 26 October 11am– 4pm at Fiddlers Green Retirement Village, 57 Gloucester Ave, Berwick. Free entry. Details: u3acasey.org.au or 0493 280 458
Cranbourne legend returns
By Blair Burns
Cranbourne was relegated from Southern Division 1 at the conclusion of this year’s football season but there is plenty of excitement ahead of next year.
It was clear from the early parts of the season that on-field leadership was lacking and with frequent injuries to senior players, the team felt the full impact.
It is a priority that the Eagles hold at the forefront as they head into the 2026 season, having already signed club legend and leading goalkicker Marc Holt, former VFL player Mitch Lewis and Matt Bowles – all as assistant coaches.
Lewis will bolster the midfield, while Holt will offer a strong target in the forward line, also working alongside the younger key position players.
It was a turbulent first season for coach Angelo Soldatos, but the club will be hoping that the side can achieve success with greater experience in the coaching ranks.
“We identified really early (last season) that we needed help with the coaching side of things, it’s just to be able to spread the load a bit, not just for myself, but for Dave Mair as well, who is also staying on as assistant coach for next year,” Soldatos said.
“All three of them have been around footy for a very long time and see it in a similar way, they aren’t just going to sit there, they are going to have challenging conversations.
“We also knew we needed to get in some guys who are in the age demographic that Mitch is, he is 27 and coming into his prime … we want guys in that sweet spot.”
Soldatos said the new coaching appointments gave him strong reinforcement in his role and more freedom to be the coach he wanted to be.
“If I look back at pre-season last year, it was really challenging from a coaching perspective,” he said.
“You come in, you are trying to form connections with the players, introduce a new game plan and all that sort of stuff and it feels like you are trying to do it all.”
Holt has kicked over 1200 goals for Cranbourne across 287 senior games, and you can expect plenty more in Southern Division 2 next season.
However, the superstar says it’s not about him and is focused on developing the young players and contributing however he can.
“We spoke about it and the timing of it is pretty funny, we want him to do almost like what Jack Gunston has done at Hawthorn, where he has the ability to come in and help the young boys,” Soldatos said.
“He will be helping some of the young key position players with craft and bodywork, whether that be the forwards, rucks or backs.
Holt’s experience will be invaluable, as too
will his on-field presence, giving the side a strong target when going inside 50 – something the side didn’t have this year.
“He has also been playing some good footy in the past couple of years at Lang Lang, kicking 48 goals in 12 games this season and 86 goals last year,” Soldatos said.
“We really struggled to kick a score this season, even in games where we were playing good footy, we couldn’t find the ways to put scoreboard pressure on the opposition.”
Lewis is another player to have signed on at the Eagles, putting pen to paper for 2026 and 2027.
The hard-running midfielder will also be a playing assistant coach, set to contribute strongly to the engine room and offer leadership for the
young side.
Lewis has VFL experience with Casey Demons and most recently played with Mansfield in the Goulburn Valley Football League.
“I coached Mitch at Bayswater and we played together as well, I had known him for a while and we have always stayed in contact,” Soldatos said.
“He is a ripping guy and will be great for the group, so we are stoked to have him … it is going to be a fairly easy transition for him into coaching I think.”
With strong retention and skipper Zak Roscoe also locked in at Amstel Reserve, there is plenty for Eagles fans to smile about.
The third piece of the puzzle is Bowles, who will also be an assistant coach for 2026.
He has spent time with Gembrook, Cheltenham, Sandringham Zebras and St Paul’s McKinnon – he will bring a wealth of knowledge to the club.
“Matt is a really good mate of mine, we were at Cheltenham together when I was playing there and we hit it off from the first session there really,” Soldatos said.
“He came and watched the final game of the year against Cheltenham, he lives in Carrum and is a firefighter in Dandenong, so logistically it just made sense for him to be at Cranbourne.”
With the coaching inclusions and some more big signings to come, the Eagles will hope to be a Division 2 powerhouse and soar back up to the top level.
Reigning best and fairest among Redbacks’ recruits
By Blair Burns
Hampton Park is not going to walk into Southern Division 1 short of star players…and the side won’t be short of belief either when next season rolls around.
Coach Luke Bull led the Redbacks to a premiership this year in Division 2 and the club has just signed a couple of big recruits in Heath Briggs and Liam Hasler.
Briggs comes across from Cora Lynn in the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition after winning this year’s senior best and fairest at the Cobras.
While Hasler is an exciting young player from Endeavour Hills, looking for a season free of injury and a fresh start at the Redbacks.
Bull was stoked to sign the duo, which he said would add plenty to the senior side in 2026.
“Briggs has just come off a best and fairest with Cora Lynn, so it was really pleasing to sign him,” he said.
“He has got a few friends at the club with his housemates playing with us, so it was super good to get him down to the club.
“We also signed Liam Hasler from Endeavour Hills – he is a really underrated player and will be very good for us.”
Briggs has called Cora Lynn home since the
start of 2016 when he left Narre Warren Junior Football Club and moved to the Cobras.
Since then, he never looked back playing 114 games for Cora Lynn, kicking 78 goals and being named in the best 53 times.
“Briggsy is a high quality player and has played at VFL level with Casey, he is only 25 so he still has plenty of good football ahead of him, he’s only coming into his peak,” Bull said.
“Liam Hasler wouldn’t really be known throughout Division 1, but if you watched Division 2 closely, you would see what a high calibre player he is – he is only 23 years old.”
The goal for Hampton Park next season isn’t to just compete … it’s to win the entire thing –it’s a brave call, but there is a feeling of optimism sweeping around Robert Booth Reserve.
“From our list, we want to add at least five or six players … we’ve got a lot of top-end talent and that will increase our overall depth massively,” Bull said.
“We would’ve already competed with Division 1 sides this year, but if you want to push deep into September, which we do, you’ve got to top up the list a bit.
“We want to go up there and win it straight away, it has been done before and I think it can be done again.”
Heath Briggs has put pen to paper at Hampton Park and will help the Redbacks as they look to challenge in Southern Division 1. (Stewart Chambers: 499247)
Cranbourne legend Marc Holt will return to Amstel Reserve in 2026, as a playing assistant coach. (Rob Carew: 359439)
Casey appoints new coach
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Melbourne has appointed Rhett McLennan to coach Casey Demons in 2026.
The Demons made the announcement on Friday, with McLennan landing the role after being at the helm of Gippsland Power’s boys program since 2019.
His appointment follows Taylor Whitford, who has coached for the past three seasons, being promoted to Melbourne’s Head of Development.
McLennan has guided the likes of Caleb Serong, Bailey Humphrey and Zane Duursma onto AFL lists.
McLennan’s appointment aligns well with Casey’s desire to continue to build connections in a Gippsland region where Box Hill and Collingwood have traditionally also nabbed talent.
Casey had six Gippslanders on its books in 2025.
McLennan is keen for the opportunity to enter an AFL environment.
“I’m excited for what the next chapter holds for myself and my family and the opportunity to work at a quality football club that has had some excellent coaches and players go before me and the opportunity to work with new coaches is ultra exciting and I can’t wait to get in there and learn first and foremost,” McLennan said.
“I pinch myself in regards to timing.
“To be able to put your fingerprints on something as historic as the Melbourne Football Club is something I don’t take lightly and I value and appreciate.”
McLennan’s appointment comes at a time of great change for Melbourne, with senior coach Steven King and assistants Jared Rivers, Rory Atkins and Matthew Scarlett also new to the club ahead of 2026.
As part of his professional development with Gippsland, McLennan has been immersed in some Casey pre-season sessions in recent years.
“Hopefully it’s a place where we can develop and harness talent within the area from a local and VFL-listed player point of view and it’s a place everyone feels included from the AFL players to players on the supplementary VFL list,” McLennan added.
“We want to make Casey their favourite place to be and we want to think that, when you play for Casey, there is a clear identity about the way we play our footy.”
Having been part of the talent pathway system for the past 11 years, and overseen 32 players drafted since becoming head coach, McLennan is well positioned to work alongside the promoted Whitford in the Dees’ development.
McLennan highlighted the role that Gippsland Power has played in his development.
“The footy program that Gippy have is so solid and well entrenched in the Gippsland area that it’s an automatic pathway that all young players want to aspire to when they start playing football so we’d love that to continue at Casey as well,” McLennan said.
“Gippsland have been incredible for my education and growth and I can’t thank them enough.
“We want to make Casey their favourite place to be.” Rhett McLennan, incoming Casey Demons coach
“Spending 11 years in the (talent pathway) where the most important thing is individual development gives me good experience of how important that is especially from a young draftees point of view and how to work with them and how that graduates to AFL level.
“So I’m there to assist the line coaches and head coach and provide insight into how we’ve done it in the past with relative success at Gippy.”
McLennan coached Vic Country in 2025 after being on the panel since 2019.
Prior to taking up the Gippsland boys head coaching role in 2019, McLennan was forwards coach for four seasons and Under-16s coach for two seasons.
He was also the Power’s girls head coach for two seasons.
“There’s massive scope for growth for Casey in (strengthening ties with Gippsland footy),” McLennan said.
“There’s so many football clubs in eastern Victoria where Casey is the first VFL club you get to when you get in the car, so enhancing relationships with those clubs and players so when they think about higher levels of football, they think of Casey straight away is important.
“It’s about being accommodating and being present in Gippsland and being able to show how easy those opportunities can be for people ready to step up.”
Melbourne GM of AFL Football Performance Alan Richardson said the club was thrilled to appoint a highly experienced football person in
Teenaged double centurion makes statement
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Young Casey-South Melbourne opener Finlay Gordon blasted an eye-popping double century in his second game for the club on Saturday in the Vic Premier Cricket competition.
Gordon batted for 96 overs en-route to an unbeaten 206, with a 341-run opening partnership alongside skipper Ash Chandrasinghe helping the Swans post 2/393 at Casey Fields
The 18-year-old was recruited from England in the off-season to help replace the void left by departing long timer Ruwantha Kellapotha.
His statement innings in the first red ball match of the season followed 4/39 with his offies in a one-dayer against Frankston-Peninsula in a Round 1 victory.
“There’s not enough superlatives to describe it,” coach Will Carr said.
“It was a very mature innings from a man
who has not long turned 18.
“He went through all the gears up and down and showed great composure at different times and great intent throughout the innings and that’s the result of batting for 96 overs.
He did so against a Melbourne University attack featuring Doug Warren, coming off a Sheffield Shield five-wicket haul for Victoria last week.”
The state level spinner, who also has Big Bash League experience, finished with figures of 0/102 off 24 overs.
“He was able to play all types of bowling,” Carr said.
“He seemed to have plan against the spin and there was a little bit of turn on offer.
“Against high quality bowling he committed to his plans.”
Continued page 19
McLennan.
“After a thorough process, we are really pleased to welcome Rhett as senior coach of the Casey Demons for the 2026 VFL season,” Richardson said.
“Rhett’s coaching philosophy, character and experience in helping his players reach their full potential made him a standout candidate, and we had no hesitation in offering him the role.
“In addition to his VFL commitments, Rhett will also work across our AFL program, with focus on the development space. We’re excited by what he can contribute here.
“We look forward to welcoming Rhett and his family to the club, ahead of an exciting season.”
Those around McLennan are excited to see him take the next step in his coaching journey.
TIM COTTER, AFL Gippsland Region Manager: “It’s fantastic for the region. The first word that comes to mind is professional which prepares the players for whatever they do post Gippsland Power. It’s not the only measure of success but his success in drafted levels is above and beyond. We ran a Gippsland coaching Academy this year and he was our lead man and was brilliant for local coaches to learn off.”
ASHER EASTHAM, 2024 Gippsland Power graduate drafted to Gold Coast Suns: “He created a great culture where everyone felt supported and pushed to get better. Rhett made Gippsland Power feel like a local football club rather than a representative team which helped me fit in and really enjoy my time at Gippy. Rhett was a great
coach, he trusted me as a player and allowed me to display my strengths which overall helped me get drafted.”
TOM MATTHEWS, 2025 Gippsland Power boys captain: “’Rhetta’ has been by far the best mentor and coach I have had in my junior footy. It’s crazy how much he cares about everyone at the club from all the players to staff and he knows how to connect. He’s been huge in my development as a player whether it be physically or mental and has always been up for a chat as well. He’s always giving me feedback and cares about everyone’s development on and off the field. I definitely believe he will go on to coach at highest level one day.”
ALLAN CHANDLER, Gippsland Power Under16s coach and AFL Gippsland Region Council Member: “I have learned so much under Rhett’s leadership. He represented our region with pride, consistently delivered outstanding results, and was always committed to helping the players and coaches around him grow. His mentorship has made a lasting impact on everyone who was lucky enough to work with him. I’m super excited to see what he can do at the next level.”
NATHAN BOYD, former Gippsland Power girls coach: “He’s one of the most hard-working, professional and diligent coaches I’ve worked with. What stood out to me was the way he made the place feel like home when I came in. He’s a good driver of a one-club culture and there was never anything that was too much when I was asking for feedback. He’s really measured and intelligent; his in-game and tactical coaching is fantastic and his calmness in pressure situations stands out.
Finlay Gordon showed maturity beyond his years according to coach Will Carr. (Stewart Chambers: 509515)
Rhett McLennan has been appointed 2026 Casey VFL coach. (Stewart Chambers: 339169).
Openers make their mark
By Jonty Ralphsmith
From Page 18
The double centurion from Hampshire Academy batted for the majority of his innings with Chandrasinghe, who scored a stable 144 off 257, and provided coolness to allow Gordon to flourish.
The 23-year-old is Casey-South Melbourne’s sole Victorian contracted player for the 2025-26 season and was promoted to captain of CaseySouth Melbourne with incumbent skipper Luke Shelton retiring.
“He (captained) in Luke Shelton’s absence in a final last year and did a stellar job,” Carr said.
“We felt with where he’s at as a cricketer and his maturity, the captaincy will help him keep evolving his game so he was a pretty obvious choice for us.
“He’s only early into his captaincy career but has demonstrated he will have a good captaincy career and grow with the role.
“He’s really embraced it and brings a real calmness; he’s a calm player and that shines through with his captaincy so we’re excited about his prospects of leadership.”
From ball one on Saturday, he was in control and chanceless.
“He would have played and missed twice or three times through his innings,” Carr said.
“He controlled the tempo and no doubt would have had a positive impact on Finn.”
The Swans announced Gordon’s signature during an off-season of change following the retirements of Jackson Fry and Shelton and departures of Matthew Calder and state capped Ruwantha Kellapotha - the latter venturing to Tasmania.
Kellapotha scored 343 runs and took 40 wickets last season and the Swans were hopeful Gordon could contribute to filling that void.
“From a skillset point of view, he looked like what we were looking for, bowling spin and the conversation I had with him on the phone, his maturity and what he wanted to do with his cricket was really impressive,” Carr said.
“We thought he was going to fit in really well from a character point of view which is equally important as his skillset.
“As a batter, he’s pretty 360.
“He seems to have all the shots and he has really nice hands and is able to manipulate the field nicely.
“He can open his hands up well through the offside.
“We have seen his batting ability through some practice games where his offside game has shone.
“He can jump on anything short or overpitched and anything with width.
“He can hit well through the offside, nicely down the ground and off his pads and can pull anywhere between mid wicket and square leg.”
Gordon also has some tricks with the ball, and will this season have the opportunity to learn off legendary Sri Lankan left arm orthodox spinner Rangana Herath.
Herath took 433 international wickets in the whites in a test career spanning 19 years and is the Swans’ bowling coach this season.
“He has clear plans about what he wants to do with his fields and he’s able to execute,” Carr said.
“He has nice variations with speed and turn and he can really rip it so I’m fairly confident he
“His maturity was really impressive.” Casey-South Melbourne coach Will Carr on double centurion Finlay Gordon
will be able to demonstrate that with the red ball as well so we’re really buoyant about what he can offer us in all formats.”
Another off-season addition was Pakistani Muhammad Irfan junior, a right arm bowler who bowls off the right foot who has spent the past four seasons as a star bowler on the New South Wales Premier Cricket scene.
“He’s an experienced player and he’s super durable,” Carr said of Irfan junior.
“We expect a lot of overs from ‘Mo’ and he brings a lot of wisdom and knowledge so we’re excited about what he can bring.
“He’s a different type of bowler, he bowls off the wrong foot and has good height so we liked him for lots of reasons as well as what he brings with his point of difference.
“He’s different to (Nathan) Lambden who is more traditional and (Harry) Hoekstra is left arm so we have some variation there with our
quicks and we have some good spinners coming through as well.”
Hoekstra took 1/9 off six overs in Round 1 and is progressing well as a disciplined and hard working left armer who played games for Melbourne Renegades’ Academy in Northern Territory in the southern winter.
He has been touted as a promising talent for some time and been part of several representative squads in Victorian cricket’s talent pathway.
“I think he’s on the right trajectory,” Carr said.
“His body’s developing which is a big part of being a fast bowler.
“He’s working hard on technical things as well which he’s made strides in so we’re looking forward to what ‘Hook’ can do for us from a team perspective and his own development as well.”
The Swans will back themselves to defend 393 on Saturday, which would give them a 2-0 start to the season following a defeat to Dandenong in
the first round of finals in 2024-25.
“We’ve got players developing from within and the signs are looking good earlier in the year,” Carr said.
“We’ve been able to recruit some players in so we’ve been able to cover a little bit of experience lost and covered the rest with players developed from within.”
Meanwhile, a century to skipper Jacob Long has set the Swans’ Second XI up well in Round 2, putting 9/268 on the board.
After entering at 3/4, Siddarth Neelakntan scored a pressure-absorbing 56 to stymie Melbourne University’s momentum in the Third XI and give Casey South Melbourne 224 to defend. In pursuit, Melbourne University is 0/13 off five overs at stumps.
The Swans’ Fourth XI are in a precarious position, sitting at 4/14 after Josh Guinea led the attack which bowled the hosts out for 223.
Finlay Gordon hit it to all parts on Saturday. (Stewart Chambers: 509515)
Finlay Gordon contributed with the ball in Round 1 before his massive knock. Muhammad Irfan junior bowls Maxy Walker style. Ash Chandrasinghe was a clear choice as skipper.
