Golden moment
Devon Meadows Primary School buzzed with excitement on Friday 17 October as students welcomed the 18-carat gold Lexus Melbourne Cup trophy during its 2025 national tour.
Valued at $850,000, the “Loving Cup” symbolises the unity of jockey, trainer and owner. The visit formed part of the 23rd Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour, which spans over a million kilometres.
Story page 14
Monash Health has defended its handling of mental health patients in emergency departments after data showed Casey and Dandenong hospitals had the state’s lowest rates of timely transfers to mental health beds.
In the final quarter of 2024–25, none of Casey’s mental health patients and only 4 per cent at Dandenong were admitted within eight hours,
compared to Victoria’s 44 per cent average.
Cranbourne resident Ray, whose daughter has repeatedly sought care at both hospitals, described waits of up to 36 hours at Casey’s emergency department, often overcrowded with all 25 cubicles full.
He said patients frequently faced long delays between triage, assessment, and transfer, with
little information provided about bed availability or transport timing.
Monash Health said mental health care begins immediately upon identification, with its Emergency Psychiatric Service providing early intervention and ongoing support within emergency departments.
The service said it remains committed to
working with the Victorian Government to improve care access.
State data shows mental health bed occupancy rates of 72 per cent at Casey and 99 per cent at Dandenong, where some patients stayed more than a month, more than double the metropolitan average.
Full story page 10
Teagan from Victoria Racing Club showed Junior and Micah (prep teacher) the 2025 Melbourne Cup. (Stewart Chambers: 510717)
Drivers ready for challenge
Two Casey petrolheads are gearing up to take on one of Australia’s toughest street car events when the Street Machine Drag Challenge returns later this month.
Cranbourne’s Kelvin Mann and Blind Bight’s David Lorinc will both hit the road.
Street Machine Drag Challenge is one of the most punishing events in Australian motorsport.
More than 280 street-registered cars will compete across five days, racing at a different drag strip each day before driving hundreds of kilometres to the next under their own power.
Kelvin, 52, impressed on debut in 2024 with his ute, which looks every bit a Holden V8 but actually runs a 6.0-litre LS with a rear-mounted turbo set-up producing more than 800 horsepower.
He went as quickly as 9.36 seconds at 145 miles per hour during the week, before mechanical gremlins cut his campaign short on the final day.
“We made it to the last lap but didn’t cross the finish line,” Kelvin said.
“We now know it was a voltage issue that wiped the tune from the ECU, and I didn’t have a backup saved with me. Luke Foley was awesome helping me figure it out, but with no tune we were hosed.”
Kelvin’s ute, built with help from friends and finished just before last year’s event, runs a Powerglide transmission, a PWR water-to-air intercooler and a custom rear turbo system he designed with mate Brett Lowing.
He’s determined to make amends for last year’s setback and crack an eight-second pass this time around.
Meanwhile, 35-year-old David Lorinc will return for his third Drag Challenge in his VH Commodore, this time stepping up to the Outlaw As-
pirated class.
After running nitrous in previous years, he’s going all-motor with a 383ci stroker Holden V8 producing 650 horsepower, backed by a Turbo 400 and a fresh nine-inch.
“We were really pushing our luck with this engine, and Holden V8s are expensive to build,” David said.
“So, we’ve gone back to just running aspo, and the goal is to run a nine with an all-motor Holden.
“Danko from Adicted Performance does an incredible job tuning the engine, and if we can run nines with a full-weight, full-interior car on all-motor, I’ll be bloody stoked.”
Once that milestone is reached, David already has plans for the next step.
“We’ll retire this combo and build a fresh one to suit a turbo, and then really go fast,” he said.
Street Machine Magazine publisher Simon
Telford said Drag Challenge has evolved into one of the country’s most exciting and authentic motorsport events.
“Drag Challenge exists because we wanted to experience the same kind of adventure we saw at Hot Rod Drag Week in the US,” Simon said.
“Ten years on, it’s become the most exciting form of drag racing outside of Top Fuel, and the best part is anyone with a tough street car can have a crack.”
The 10th annual Street Machine Drag Challenge runs from Wednesday 29 October to Sunday 2 November across South Australia and Victoria.
Spectators are welcome at every stop, with wall-to-wall racing, tyre smoke and real street car action.
Visit dragchallenge.com.au for tickets and more information.
Blind Bight local David Lorinc with his VH Commodore. (Supplied)
David Lorinc’s VH Commodore.
Cranbourne local Kelvin Mann with his sleeperstyle VS Commodore ute.
Danger on our roads
By Violet Li
Three intersections in the City of Casey have been named among the most dangerous in the outer south east, according to RACV’s 2025 My Melbourne Road survey.
The survey, which gathered 12,400 responses from Victorian road users, identified 84 of Melbourne’s most hazardous intersections based on crash data, traffic volume, and design flaws.
In the City of Casey, three intersections made the list, including Clyde-Five Ways Road and Ballarto Road (Clyde), South Gippsland Highway and Cranbourne Home Shopping Centre (Cranbourne), and South Gippsland Highway and Sladen Street (Cranbourne).
An additional intersection, Clyde-Five Ways Road and South Gippsland Highway (Devon Meadows), was identified by participants.
RACV Head of Policy James Williams said all three Casey intersections were highlighted by both crash data and community feedback.
For the Clyde-Five Ways Road and Ballarto Road intersection, Mr Williams said the issue is infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with the suburb’s rapid growth.
“We’re seeing a lot of recent development right on that corner and in very close proximity,” he said.
“So there’s increasing traffic flows, but the infrastructure is not keeping pace. We can see that, specifically, the line markings are very poor. It’s rough road surfaces, poor line markings, poor lighting, and a very narrow shoulder.
“And what we mean by shoulder is the edge of the road. It turns into gravel very quickly, and mud, and then grass.”
Cranbourne’s South Gippsland Highway and Home Shopping Centre intersection was another site of collisions and near misses.
“The problem is more the visibility and a number of accidents we’re having with people exiting that intersection,” Mr Williams said.
According to him, with a traffic island in the middle of South Gippsland Highway, some drivers are performing risky right turns across the southbound lanes to enter the centre.
“We’ve had collisions there crossing the Highway and several near misses and issues with people turning out of the centre,” Mr Williams said.
“Better signage and lighting could go there, and also you might want to have a look at whether that needs to be signalised or whether that’s appropriate that they can turn right there into the centre under the current infrastructure.”
Further north in the Cranbourne CBD, RACV noted issues at South Gippsland Highway and Sladen Street, where high traffic volumes mix with pedestrian activity and shopping traffic.
“We’ve got this tension here between activity and shopping destination and dining destination on one hand, but also on the other hand, a major through road across another arterial road,” Mr Williams said.
“We’re also seeing speeding, red-light running and congestion frustrations.
“It’s an interesting dichotomy here because you almost feel you’re on the edge of the country. People might want to drive like they’re in the country, but actually, you’re in suburbia.”
City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said Casey’s growing population needs more infrastructure investment than ever before.
“Casey’s rapid population growth is leading to record car ownership and increased pressure on our community’s roads and transport network,” he said.
“While the State Government is responsible for the main arterial roads, we are committed to working with all levels of government to ensure the best outcomes for our community.”
City of Casey Manager City and Asset Planning Keri New said council has several priority projects, which align with the community’s needs, and that have been identified in the RACV survey.
“Clyde-Five Ways Road and Ballarto Road (Clyde) forms part of our broader advocacy initiative for the Clyde Road corridor. Upgrading this corridor is essential to improving safety and easing congestion, with plans to duplicate 8km of arterial road and upgrade multiple high-risk intersections,” she said.
“This includes the installation of traffic signals at the Clyde-Five Ways Road and Ballarto Road intersection, which is one of the city’s most dangerous.”
She said the Clyde-Five Ways Road and South Gippsland Highway intersection is also part of the corridor upgrade between Thompsons Road and South Gippsland Highway, though much of
the route remains unfunded.
“Council is also calling for a streetscape upgrade along South Gippsland Highway (High Street), which includes reducing speed limits, narrowing traffic lanes from six to four, and installing a new signalised intersection at Lyall Street and High Street,” she said.
“Additionally, upgrades at the South Gippsland Highway and Sladen Street intersection are needed to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce traffic conflicts.
“We also recognise the safety concerns at the South Gippsland Highway and Cranbourne Home Shopping Centre intersection. Between January 2020 and December 2024, there were 67 recorded casualty crashes at intersections along South Gippsland Highway between Thompsons Road and Lesdon Avenue, including 27 serious injury accidents. “Council fully supports any safety improvements at these intersections to help protect our community.”
A Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) spokesperson said: “We’re working hard to improve our roads and deliver safer infrastructure right across the state — making record investments to make sure families get home safe and sooner.
“Works are underway to upgrade intersections at Clyde-Five Ways Road, South Gippsland Highway and Fisheries Road - which will improve traffic flow and safety.
“We are investing more than $1.1 billion to deliver life-saving infrastructure as part of our road safety strategy, including $412 million of new funding this year to reduce road trauma.”
Big Build Roads is upgrading the intersections of Clyde-Five Ways Road and South Gippsland Highway and Fisheries Road and South Gippsland Highway in Devon Meadows on behalf of Transport Victoria, with planning and design work currently underway.
The upgrade will add traffic lights to the intersection of Clyde-Five Ways Road and South Gippsland Highway, traffic lights to the intersection of Fisheries Road and South Gippsland Highway and turn lanes on Clyde-Five Ways Road and Fisheries Road.
More information can be found here: transport.vic.gov.au/news-and-resources/projects/ south-gippsland-highway-and-clyde-five-waysroad-intersection-upgrade.
Warneet’s rebuilt jetties declared open
After a three-year shutdown, the rebuilt Warneet North and South Jetties have been declared open.
Ports and Freight Minister Melissa Horne and Bass MP Jordan Crugnale visited the site on Wednsday 22 October after the original piers had been closed between 2020-’22 due to safety concerns.
The new south jetty features durable steel piles and a modern 2.6-metre-wide timber deck, with new, modern handrails. Its original pontoon and gangway were retained maintain boating and fishing ac-
cess. The new north jetty was rebuilt with durable steel piles and a 1.8-metre-wide fibreglass deck, which includes a low landing with steps and new handrails.
A scenic coastal walking track connects the two piers.
Ports and Freight Minister Melissa Horne said the Government recognised the importance of the “much-loved community assets” to local fishing and boating. “The local community has championed the replacement of the Warneet jetties, and the
Fountain Gate machete attack investigated Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding two incidents at a shopping centre in Narre Warren on 15 October.
Police were called to a report of a robbery near the bus terminals at the centre on Overland Drive just after 6pm.
It is believed a male was approached by unknown offenders who assaulted him and stole jewellery.
Whilst police were at the shopping centre, it is understood an incident on the rooftop carpark of the shopping centre occurred.
It is believed a group of unknown offenders, one armed with a baton, were involved in an assault about 6.30pm.
Police were not aware of the second incident until 17 October and no formal report has been made.
At this stage, no arrests have been made and the investigation remains ongoing.
It is believed the incidents are linked.
Burnout alleged
A Narre Warren man’s car was impounded after police broke up a large hoon-gathering in the Clyde region on 14 October.
When police arrived, the large gathering dispersed and fled the area.
But a blue Ford sedan owned by a 25-yearold man was later impounded, after allegedly performing a burnout in front of patrolling police, amounting to a fine of $1138.
The Narre Warren man is expected to be summonsed to court on numerous driving offences.
Second man linked to alleged sport-club arsons
Two South East men have been charged after arsons destroyed two community sport buildings in the City of Monash.
CIU detectives say the blazes at the soccer, AFL and cricket facilities caused more than $4 million in damage.
A 31-year-old Dandenong man was charged last week with two counts of arson and two car thefts.
He was remanded in custody.
Monash CIU detectives arrested a 35-yearold man at a home on Bellario Circuit in Clyde North on Friday 17 October.
Police allegedly seized firearms, ammunition, weapons, cash and drugs from the premises.
The Clyde North man was charged with firearm possession, trafficking a commercial quantity of methylamphetamines and other associated offences, police say.
He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Monday 20 October.
The first alleged arson occurred at Capital Reserve in Glen Waverley about 3am on 16 April.
During the second incident, it’s alleged the club rooms at Mayfield Drive in Mount Waverley were torched about 5.15am on 3 May. Police say the investigation is ongoing.
Trio charged after Hallam agg burg
Three men have been charged after an alleged aggravated home burglary in Hallam early on Sunday 19 October.
A group of offenders allegedly stole gardening tools from an occupied residence’s garage in Cardamon Drive about 1.35am.
The sole occupant of the home was not injured.
The group fled in a Toyota Landcruiser, which was soon spotted on Monash Freeway, near Heatherton Road.
Police say the vehicle was driven in convoy with a stolen Toyota 86 sports car in Springvale and Noble Park.
The vehicles stopped in Norris Court, Dandenong North. The occupants allegedly fled on foot and were arrested by police.
A laser-printed gun was found in the Landcruiser, police say.
completion of these works will get people back on the water as the weather warms up.”
Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said the new jetties were an “extraordinary testament to the fierce grit and determination of the local Warneet community”.
“Their stellar positive campaign ... will now bring enjoyment to locals and visitors alike who love all things water, boating and recreational fishing.”
The works were funded from a $46 million state fund for critical rebuilds and repairs at Victoria’s ports.
Casey CIU detectives charged a 33-yearold Doveton man with attempted aggravated burglary, burglary, theft from a motor vehicle, car theft, handling stolen goods, possessing a category-E handgun, possessing a prohibited weapon, negligently dealing with proceeds of crime and committing an indictable offence on bail. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court that day.
A 34-year-old Hampton Park man was charged with car theft and going equipped to steal. He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 4 March.
A 60-year-old Dandenong North man was charged with car theft. He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 5 March.
The Landcruiser was allegedly stolen from Norwood Road in Caufield North on 17 October.
The Toyota 86 was allegedly stolen from Dandenong Road, Malvern East on 11 October.
Warneet Yacht Club’s Alex Stroud, Bass MP Jordan Crugnale and Ports and Freight Minister Melissa Horne open the south jetty. (Gary Sissons:
Pedestrian crossing calls
By Violet Li
Tooradin residents are renewing calls for a pedestrian crossing on the South Gippsland Highway to connect local estates and the Recreation Reserve.
Local mother of two Melanie Cliquet said families regularly face a dangerous choice between a long detour or darting across the highway to reach community facilities.
“There’s nothing between Bayview Road and the lights in town for people to cross safely,” she said.
“Kids who live in the estate have to either walk all the way back to the lights at Main Street or just run across the road.
“There’s no crossing. It’s really unsafe.”
South Gippsland Highway divides the residential area from the Recreation Reserve, which includes sports ovals, tennis courts, and a soonto-be-completed skate park.
Ms Cliquet said it’s a busy road with a lot of people coming through here to go to Phillip Island.
Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said she was well aware of the community’s long-standing concerns.
“It has been raised by residents over a number of years, and more recently by the City of Casey through their advocacy priority list,” she said.
“People do cross the highway here because it’s quicker than going down to the lights and walking all the way back — safety is worth a longer walk.
“I really encourage members of the community to help me in my push, also by requesting this formally through the VicRoads Feedback site, which logs it with the department.”
Tooradin Ward Councillor Jennifer Dizon said a few residents had reached out to her about safety and pedestrian upgrades at this intersection.
“Council has added this to our active transport advocacy list,” she said.
“I will continue to advocate on behalf of res-
idents to the State Government to improve state road infrastructure to accommodate Casey’s rapidly growing population.”
City of Casey confirmed that the Department of Transport of Planning (DTP) is responsible for managing South Gippsland Highway as it is a declared arterial road.
This includes managing the intersection with Bayview Road and investigating the need and feasibility of providing additional infrastructure.
In 2021, Council was advised by the DTP that pedestrian numbers were too low to warrant a pedestrian-operated signal under their traffic engineering guidelines.
In addition, there are site constraints and missing footpath(s) on the southern side, which will impact the feasibility of any pedestrian crossing project at this location.
Vice president of the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association Anthony Tassone said it was time for action.
“This is a long-standing safety concern for families, children and older residents who need to cross a busy 80km/h stretch of highway used by heavy vehicles to access the recreation reserve,” he said.
“With upgrades coming soon at the reserve, including a new pavilion and skate park, pedestrian activity will increase, and it’s time this project was prioritised.”
Local mother of two Melanie Cliquet said families regularly face a dangerous choice between a long detour or darting across the highway to reach community facilities. (Violet Li)
Law submissions flood in
By Violet Li
Casey residents have voiced concerns over enforcement powers and private land use in their submissions to the council’s draft Local Law.
Casey Council has received more than 70 submissions in response to its Draft Casey Community Local Law 2025, which were noted at the October Council Meeting.
A report revealed that the five most discussed sections of the draft law were enforcement, waste management, temporary dwellings, vehicles and machinery, and shipping containers.
The most contentious issue was the enforcement, with residents objecting to the powers granted to Council Authorised Officers, particularly the ability to enter private properties without a magistrate-issued warrant.
Many submissions argued that such powers
should be consistent with those of police or debt collectors.
The temporary dwellings clause divided opinions.
Compared with the previous version, the draft local law extended permit duration from 14 days to two months for temporary dwellings.
Some welcomed greater flexibility, citing the need for temporary accommodation during the housing and mental health crises.
Others feared misuse and negative impacts on neighbourhood character.
The clause dealing with vehicles and machinery drew a similar division.
Casey Council has removed this clause that requires a permit to repair or service vehicles and machinery if detrimental to the amenity, as well as the cause that prohibited people from storing more than two unregistered vehicles
in its draft local law. Matters relating to excess unregistered vehicles on private land will be managed through the unsightly clause, the draft suggests.
Many residents supported removing the need for a permit to repair or store unregistered vehicles on private property, calling it a “common-sense” move that respects property rights.
However, others raised concerns about noise, pollution, and unsightly conditions, pushing for clearer definitions and consistent enforcement.
In the draft, the Council also proposed the permit exemption for properties over four hectares to store shipping containers, but residents believed that there was a need for clearer, fairer regulations, especially for residents on properties under four hectares in semi-rural areas.
Many residents supported permit exemp-
tions based on reasonable conditions, such as distance from boundaries or longer permit durations.
However, others urged the council to tighten definitions and align regulations with the Casey Planning Scheme to avoid confusion and ensure equal treatment across property types.
According to the Council, the submissions would be considered before the final local law is presented for adoption at the December Council Meeting.
Casey Mayor Councillor Stefan Koomen said at the meeting that they would take these additional submissions seriously, and they would look to come back with potentially some further changes just to make sure they get this right.
“It’s been a thorough process,” he said.
“It’s taken nearly a year, but I think we’ve done it the right way.“
Councillor spearheads motion to seek clarity on waste deal
By Violet Li
A City of Casey councillor has urged tighter oversight of the municipality’s role in the South East Metropolitan Advanced Waste Processing (SEMAWP) partnership.
At the October Casey Council meeting, Councillor Lynette Pereira successfully moved a motion calling for greater transparency and accountability in the city’s involvement with the South East Metropolitan Advanced Waste Processing (SEMAWP) partnership.
The motion directs council officers to write to the SEMAWP Board seeking assurances about governance, probity, and legal compliance associated with the SEMAWP Agreement and all other relevant Agreements and
Circular Economy Strategies, the Victorian inquiry into waste-to-energy, and ongoing legal action by Paper Australia (Opal) against the State Government, and recent experience with international waste to energy projects.
The motion passed unanimously.
A report outlining the board’s response will be presented to the council by February 2026.
Cr Pereira said her motion was a “common-sense step to protect ratepayers and ensure transparency” around the city’s longterm waste arrangements.
“It is not about criticising the partnership,” she said.
“It’s about due diligence, good governance, and ensuring our community isn’t exposed to unnecessary financial or environmental risk.”
Councillor Carolyn Eaves noted that the reports requested are reports that would be generated by any organisation as part of their strategic scanning of their operating environments.
“I don’t think they’re very difficult reports to provide us,” she said.
City of Casey, along with eight neighbouring South East councils, formed a company South East Metropolitan Advanced Waste Processing (SEMAWP).
The alliance entered into contractual agreements with a consortium comprising Veolia, Masdar Tribe and Opal to deliver residual waste to an Energy from Waste facility to be developed by the consortium at Maryvale in Gippsland.
The agreement was signed around July-Au-
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Morning tea and tour
Councillor Lynette Pereira has urged tighter oversight of the municipality’s role in the South East Metropolitan Advanced Waste Processing (SEMAWP) partnership. (FILE)
Stars rise through ranks
Two Futsal fanatic students and a passionate rugby player from Hampton Park Secondary College have reached the big leagues.
Irfan Jafari and Farzam Hussaini will begin their practice for the 2026 Costa Blanca Cup Futsal Championship in Spain.
The Costa Blanca Cup is an international youth football tournament held in July where Irfan and Farzam will face the summer heat in Europe and put their skills to the test against ten other countries.
Both boys were scouted in term 2, at a Brisbane competition, where they represented the Victorian Squad.
Farzam, who’s only in year 7, says that the new training schedule for the tournament has pushed him to learn new skills both psychically and mentally, but it’s been a “good challenge”.
He’s also very excited to see what Spain has to offer next year.
“I can’t wait to see what it’s like over there and the level of competition, the stadiums and just being around players from different countries,” he said.
“It’s a big step for me to achieve my dreams.”
Irfan, in year 11, couldn’t believe he was chosen for the tournament at first, but says he is now looking forward to representing Australia.
“I can’t wait to go and present my best level… It’s a dream come true as I really wanted to play in Spain,” said Irfan.
But Futsal isn’t the only momentous sporting achievement at HSPC — Caleb Samuela, a determined and experienced rugby player has been se-
Farzam Hussaini is ready to take on Spain (SUPPLIED)
lected for the Melbourne Storm Harold Matthews Cup.
The Harold Matthews Cup is a junior rugby league for under 16s and considered a major stepping stone for advancing in the rugby world.
Caleb says he’s excited to see what the future holds after this huge feat, but equally understands the responsibilities that come with it.
“I can’t slack off anytime soon and need to stay on top of my game to make sure I see the path I want to walk,” he said.
Forget the lake -
A lake (re)naming?
A Parliament and politicians uneasy about a petition.
A community confused.
And once again, grassroots racism rears its ugly head!
Let’s be clear - this is no longer about a lake.
This is about Australia’s identity crisis - loud, unfiltered, and raw.
In 2023, an unnamed (ungazzeted) manmade lake in Berwick Springs was renamed Guru Nanak Lake, in honour of a man who preached peace, equality, dignity, and service to humanity.
Values Australia claims to hold dear.
But more importantly honouring the Sikh Community who serve the community whether it is bushfires, floods, lockdowns or everyday needs.
Now in 2025, a parliamentary motion to revert the name - prompted by a noisy petition - has torn the scab off something deeper.
Some argue it is about process. Others say it is about consultation.
But the loudest voices…
“Mass immigration is destroying Australia! ”
“Go back to where you came from.”
“We do not want our places named after your people.”
This is racism. Not subtle. Not hidden. Loud,
let’s
name a suburb Nanakville instead!
destructive, and emboldened.
The lake had no official “original” name.
Berwick holds no sacred significance - it was the name of a farm owned by a wealthy white settler who imported the title from Berwick-upon-Tweed in the UK.
Yet now, after a peaceful renaming in honour of a global figure, and respected Australian community the community erupts in outrage?
This is not heritage protection. This is performative rage.
This is not community concern. This is targeted cultural bullying.
On the other hand, if politicians are so eager to win the Sikh vote, why not go all in?
■Name the next suburb Nanakville.
■Build a Guru Nanak train line.
■ Open a Nanak Stadium with a canteen serving butter chicken pies, Punjabi chai and Mango Lassi.
But we are not interested in tokenism.
Sikhs did not ask for this renaming.
We do not need a lake to validate our belonging.
We have been here for generations.
Our ancestors were Sikh Cameleers (lumped in with Afghans) who helped open Australia’s interior.
We forged desert trade routes, collaborated
with Aboriginal communities, and served in both World Wars.
We have paid our dues in grit, sweat, silence and taxes.
We do not need to prove anything. We are already part of this nation’s story.
Our message: Withdraw the name, not our dignity.
We say this to the Sikh leadership and the Government: Revert the name. Not out of embarrassment but out of conviction.
Let us not allow a lake to become a lightning rod for hate.
But do not think for one second that racists get a free pass.
This episode has exposed something Australians have been walking on eggshells around for too long.
Racism is not rare. It is not underground. It is thriving.
Other ‘western’ countries have named streets after Sikh Gurus. Why can’t we?
Earlier this year in New York, a street was officially named “Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg Way” – honouring the ninth Sikh Guru, known for his advocacy for freedom, justice, and human dignity. If the United States – with all its own issues –can recognise the value of cultural contribution, what is stopping us? Is it pride? Or is it prejudice?
We Do Not Want a Lake. We Want Legacy. Sikhs do not need monuments. We want meaning. We want Australia to grow up. To define itself. To educate itself. To stop walking on eggshells around racists and cultural conversations. Forget the lake. Forget the panic. Forget the politics.
And if someone does name a suburb Nanakville, let it come with:
■ A cricket ground,
■ A Bunnings and Fish & Chips,
■ A community garden run by the old Aunties (wisdom),
■ And a big sign that says in ENGLISH: “Everyone is Welcome.”
Because that is what being Australian should mean.
The naming of Guru Nanak Lake in Berwick and subsequent petition has proved to be a divisive issue for our community.
The comprehensive parliamentary vote against the petition should be an end to the matter but sadly, apparently not.
The lack of acceptance of the “umpire’s call” by some community members leaves us with nowhere to go.
The old adage, “you win some, you lose some” should apply here – despite some people’s anger or passion about the outcome.
To the Sikh people, Guru Nanak is a Saint, a teacher. His key teaching revolves around the oneness of God and the equality of all humanity, emphasising a spiritual life of honesty, service and sharing.
Does that remind you of anyone?
The Christian community in Australia has hundreds, if not thousands, of schools, public spaces, roads and buildings named after their Saints.
Did they seek permission of Indigenous people to change the Indigenous names?
The government actually consulted with the traditional custodians to name this lake in Berwick Springs. It’s time to get over this one and move on. Better to live in harmony, acknowledgement and acceptance of one another’s faith. We can see clearly what sort of world we create when we don’t.
Tony Fitzgerald, Garfield North.
Ali Sina Mohibbi and Irfan Jafari. (Supplied)
Lake name causes divide
By Jensy Callimootoo
The year-long debate on the naming of Berwick Spring Lakes to Guru Nanak Lake reached the Upper House last Wednesday, where the Liberal Party left MP Ann-Marie Hermans to fend for herself on the matter.
The petition that was brought to Parliament by Ms Hermans only gathered support of Libertarian MP David Limbrick and One Nation’s Rikki-Lee Tyrell.
Four Casey Councillors including Cr Melinda Ambros, Cr Michelle Crowther, Cr Shane Taylor and Cr Jennifer Dizon were also in attendance in support of some Berwick Springs residents as they watched the debate.
Ms Hermans had led the charge against the naming of Berwick Springs Lake to Guru Nanak Lake, a name that honours the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
“Berwick Springs Lake has been part of our local identity. Its name reflects the heritage and diversity of the area,” said Ms Hermans on a social media post after the debate.
”Last year, that name was changed – not by the community nor by Casey Council – but by ministerial direction without genuine consultation or notice.”
Dr Harpreet Kandra Singh, a respected member of the Sikh community who has been involved in the disputes over the last year says the State Government had “promised” a Guru Nanak site name in acknowledgement of the work that Sikh communities contribute to Victorian society.
Dr Kandra says they were told consultations with the necessary stakeholders had taken place.
But since November of 2024, Berwick Springs residents and surrounding area have argued against this, saying they were not properly consulted by the State Government about the changing of their name.
Michael Ball, president of the Berwick Springs community group has said that the gov-
ernment made the decision on the name change despite the lack of support from residents.
“It comes back to a lack of consultation”, he said.
Narre Warren North MP Gary Maas, who has been part of the year-long deliberation says that “there is now bipartisan support for the name Guru Nanak Lake”.
Back in April 2025, a formal meeting with both Dr Kandra, Mr Ball, MP Ingrid Stitt and Mr Maas had taken place which according to Ms Stitt aimed to forge a“path forward” on the matter.
It is unclear however what exact alternatives or discussions came out of this meeting.
Back in November 2024, Opposition leader,
Brad Battin had also advocated against the name change.
With Ms Hermans, Mr Battin had started a petition and organised a meeting around the Berwick reserve that saw nearly 600 residents in attendance.
Alongside MP Matthew Guy, he then raised the issue in Parliament.
Since early 2025 however, the opposition leader has not commented on the matter.
Following the debate, Premier Jacinta Allan reaffirmed her support for the naming of the lake in recognition of Sikh contribution in Victorian society.
“Brad Battin personally campaigned against
it – hosting a notorious rally and circulating a hurtful petition that divided the community and hurt Sikh Victorians,” said the Premier’s media release.
“Today, under huge pressure from the community, the flip-flopping Liberals have voted against their own petition that called for Guru Nanak Lake to be cancelled.”
City of Casey’s councillor Shane Taylor also released a statement, conveying his disappointment.
“Despite early support from Brad Battin MP, the Liberal Party ultimately endorsed the new name,” he said.
“Ann-Marie Hermans stood resolute against pressure from the ALP, the Greens, and her own Liberal colleagues who withdrew support during the vote”.
On Wednesday, as the gallery was filled with numerous Berwick Springs Lake residents hoping for a resolution on the naming of the site, many left disappointed, expressing their dismay.
Mr Ball is hoping to continue his work on the matter and has reached out to Dr Kandra in aims of further discussion.
But in the height of the political attention on the matter, Dr Kandra is also busy preparing for the annual Guru Nanak festival in early November.
While he’ll consider another opportunity in the future, he says that it should ultimately be organised by the government to ensure proper resolutions.
Following the decision in the Upper House, Dr Kandra says he hopes “to build bridges” and wants the Sikh community to stop being used as a “political football”.
“I’ve had very anxious periods and sleepless nights,” he said.
“And out of that anxiety and also responsibility to my community, I have written emails to federal, state and liberal MPs to think logically about this matter, rather than making us a political football.”
At Summerset Cranbourne North, we know that as life changes, so do your needs. That’s why our unique continuum of care is thoughtfully designed to support you at every stage—offering the reassurance that no matter what the future holds, you’ll always be cared for.^
Whether you’re living independently or require a higher level of assistance, our flexible approach ensures you can access the right care when you need it, without having to leave the community you call home.
Our caring and dedicated team can provide support in your assisted living apartment,* or care in our dedicated residential aged care home.
Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or someone you love, come and see what life at Summerset is all about.
Book a village tour, or drop by anytime
Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm
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Berwick Springs residents on the steps of the Victorian Parliament last Wednesday. (SUPPLIED)
Supporting students with neurodiverse needs
By Ann-Marie Hermans MP
Diagnoses for autism and ADHD are rising in Australia.
For many of these students, targeted support is crucial for them to flourish academically, socially and emotionally.
To achieve this, schools apply for additional government funding and create individual education plans.
Sadly, despite the best efforts of schools and teachers, many of them are simply struggling to keep up with the breadth and depth of individual needs, resulting in students falling behind.
Currently, support includes adjusting classroom activities and creating unique goals that are specific to their learning where they can work more effectively.
In some cases, long-term, unmet student needs can lead to extreme situations for all those involved in the classroom.
Over a period of five years, the number of instances where educators are resorting to physically restrictive measures almost doubled.
There were 1,522 incidences of restraint and seclusion in 2019, increasing to 2,900 last year.
SBS recently reported on several unacceptable examples of students with disabilities being left outside in caged areas while others were physically hurt by fellow classmates.
It beggars belief that this could happen in a developed country like ours but sadly it does. I believe a multi-faceted approach is needed to resolve these issues.
For parents who would like to explore the medical route, the Federal Government should
ensure that getting a diagnosis is as efficient and affordable as possible.
Further, the shortage of ADHD medication could possibly be mitigated by improving supply chain resilience, adjusting prescriber rules, and expediting the approval of alternatives to major brands.
Within the classroom, distracting mobile phones should be banned, and a program promoting routine and providing clear and consistent expectations should be implemented statewide.
While these are not silver bullets, they would certainly go a long way in making a difference for all students, including those with neurodiverse needs.
Every child deserves to feel supported and safe, and that’s exactly what I’m fighting for, as your local Member.
Ann-Marie Hermans MP.
FOCUS ON … CHILDREN’S WEEK Thrive and grow...
In an age where childhood friendships are shaped as much by playground dynamics as by online interactions, the need for resilient, wellsupported children has never been more urgent. The upcoming Building Resilience Project event — a collaboration between Uniting Vic/Tas, Windermere Family Services, and generously funded by Communities for Children Cranbourne — offers a timely and vital response.
Held on Wednesday 29 October at Wilandra Rise Primary School, this free community event is more than a presentation — it’s an access point for families, educators, and practitioners committed to nurturing safe, inclusive environments for children to grow and connect.
With guest speakers like Dr. Michael CarrGregg, one of Australia’s leading child and adolescent psychologists, and The Cyber Safety Project, attendees will gain practical tools to help children navigate the complexities of friendship — both in the classroom and online. These insights are not just helpful; they are essential. As digital platforms increasingly influence social development, parents and carers need strategies that are evidence-based and culturally responsive. There will be a translator who will be providing a summary of the presentations in Dari, Pashto or Hazaragi.
But the event doesn’t stop at family support. It doubles as a professional development opportunity for teachers, support workers, and practitioners — a chance to deepen their understanding of friendship dynamics and strengthen their capacity to respond with empathy and skill. The inclusion of local service tables also reinforces the importance of place-based collaboration, ensuring families in Cranbourne and Clyde know where to turn for ongoing support.
What makes this initiative truly powerful is its holistic vision: it’s not just about managing friendship challenges, but about building resil-
ience — in children, in families, and across the systems that support them. It’s about fostering connection, empowerment, and community in a world that often feels fragmented.
Children are welcome to participate in fun activities in an adjoining room supervised by school
staff, but unable to join in the presentation. So whether you’re a parent, a professional, or simply someone who believes in the strength of community, this event is for you. Participants encouraged to register via the QR code on the attached flyer.
Family fun
The State Government is backing a big week of free, fun and educational activities this October so children and families across Victoria can come together to celebrate Children’s Week.
Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn this month announced more than $225,000 will go to 240 not-for-profit organisations to deliver Children’s Week activities ranging from messy play and family picnics, to ‘come and try’ sports and community fairs. Children’s Week engages thousands of young Victorians and their families through events hosted by libraries, community groups and cultural organisations.
This year’s theme is “Everyone should know about Children’s Rights”, based on Article 42 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Last year, more than 37,500 children and families took part in over 200 Children’s Week events supported by the Labor Government through grant funding.
Visit vic.gov.au/childrens-week to find Children’s Week events in your area and get involved.
“Children’s Week is all about celebrating our littlest Victorians – giving families a chance to come together, play, learn and have fun,” said Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn.
“From family picnics and messy play to music and circus workshops, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
“We’re proud to support hundreds of local organisations to bring Children’s Week to life right across Victoria, creating free and inclusive events for families everywhere.”
Navigating friendships at school and online A
free event for parents and carers of primary school children
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: Cyberbullying
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.
Dr. Michael Carr-Gregg, one of Australia’s leading child and adolescent psychologists will be one of the guest speakers.
Questions around wait time
By Violet Li and Cam Lucadou-Wells
Monash Health has defended its handling of mental-health patients in the emergency departments despite its Casey and Dandenong hospitals having the state’s lowest rates of timely transfers from emergency departments to mental-health beds.
The response follows Star News’s earlier report showing 0 per cent of Casey Hospital patients and 4 per cent at Dandenong were admitted to a mental-health bed within eight hours of presenting to emergency during the final quarter of 2024-25 - far below the state average of 44 per cent.
Cranbourne resident Ray, whose daughter has been a frequent patient at both hospitals, says they’ve languished up to 36 hours in the Casey Hospital ED.
The issue for him is not whether care starts, but how long it takes for that care to start.
He said Casey Hospital’s emergency department is often overwhelmed, with most of its 25 cubicles occupied.
“You sit in the waiting room for eight hours or so before you even see a doctor, and then they say that we need to sew up your arm or you need
to see the mental health people,” he said.
“You have to wait for a few more hours to see the mental health people.
“Then maybe, they won’t come to see you until you’ve got a cubicle. They can’t get you into a cubicle because the emergency department’s full up, and they’ve got nowhere to put medical patients until a bed frees up on the ward.
“You just end up sitting there forever. And if you’re going to be transferred out, you’ve got to get that bed first. You’ve got to get mental health clearance.
“Then they’ll arrange transportation if there’s a bed to transport you to; they don’t have any idea when transportation is going to turn up. And no visibility of any of that stuff.
“You might sit there for a day and a half waiting for a bed….and then you will be transferred.”
Ray said there are not enough beds in the emergency departments at Casey Hospital.
“If you go up there most nights, it’ll be absolutely full in the waiting room with people lined up out of the corridor and up the hallway,” he recalled.
Ray said his daughter was referred to Monash Health’s community mental-health services, first the Early in Life Mental Health Service
when she was younger, then the Youth Consultation and Treatment Team (YCTT).
These services offered psychiatric reviews and therapy, but had limited capacity, and she was eventually discharged and told to find a private psychiatrist.
For the daughter, private care proved unaffordable.
“If I said I’d been to the emergency department 300 times in seven years, I wouldn’t be lying. A good proportion of those times, what happens is you get turned around pretty quickly and sent home,” Ray said.
“If you are in the community mental health service, as we were, we would be sent on our way with the promise that somebody from the community mental health service would connect with us within 24 hours or so.
“95 per cent of the time, that never happened. Nobody ever called.”
Monash Health’s catchment covers one of Victoria’s fastest-growing areas, stretching across Casey, Dandenong and Cardinia.
In a statement, a Monash Health spokesperson said that at the EDs, mental health care begins the moment a patient is identified as needing support.
Bandicoot shelters put to the test
By Violet Li
A new trial at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne is giving Southern Brown Bandicoots a safe place to hide.
Southern Brown Bandicoot outreach officer Eilish Roberts said the program is testing different structures that could serve as temporary refuges for the endangered marsupials, which have lost much of their natural habitat to urban development.
The Gardens team has now installed five different shelter designs, from a biodegradable cone-like structure by the company ReHabitat, which decomposes after a year, to tile-based and wooden shelters, and cages filled with native vegetation.
Cameras will monitor how the bandicoots interact with each option through spring.
“We know that Southern Brown Bandicoots have used what’s called a ‘bandicoot bungalow’ before, which is essentially like a pallet with two entrances, covered in foliage. We’ve seen that they will go into those and use them,” Ms Roberts said.
“But we don’t really have a lot of information on what they actually like and what’s useful for bandicoots.
“We’ve got five different options for them now out in the garden, and we’ll be monitoring
them with cameras. We’re just going to observe them over the next period to see if they show any preferences for certain structures.”
Ms Roberts said the goal isn’t to replace natural habitat, but to provide a quick refuge in areas where vegetation cover is sparse.
“They’ve lost so much habitat,” she said.
“We’re not expecting them to necessarily use it as a nest or anything.
“It’s more just to get a little bit of safety if there is a roaming fox or a roaming cat, and there is no immediate vegetation to jump into.”
The trial is one of the few in Australia investigating bandicoot shelter preferences. “There’s just not enough research on their preferences,” Ms Roberts said.
“I wish I could give you a reason. I think we have a really unique opportunity at the Gardens
“Our Emergency Psychiatric Service, located within the emergency department, identifies and actively manages patients who need mental health assistance. This ensures patients receive specialist care and support before they transition to a dedicated mental health bed,” they said.
“Monash Health remains committed to working with the Victorian Government to ensure every member of our community receives the care they need to live their best possible life.”
Monash Health declined to comment on why such high numbers of Dandenong and Casey mental-health patients were staying in ED for beyond eight hours.
VAHI statistics suggest that the bed occupancy rate for the mental health unit in Casey Hospital was 72 per cent for the same quarter. It was almost full at Dandenong (99 per cent occupied).
On average, patients stayed nearly a fortnight in Dandenong and Casey mental health beds, marginally longer than the rest of metro Melbourne.
At Dandenong, 22 per cent of patients occupied beds for 35-plus days. This was more than double the rate of other Melbourne units.
The State Government was contacted for comment.
Apprentice forges success
to put that to the test because, probably, one of the reasons is that there aren’t a lot of bandicoots around. It’s hard to test these things.
“But we have the perfect case study where we’ve got bandicoots at the Gardens, and we can just observe what they prefer.”
The Gardens’ population of Southern Brown Bandicoots fluctuates between 100 and 300, depending on seasonal conditions.
Drought has likely pushed numbers down recently.
Beyond the shelter trial, protection efforts include maintaining the site’s predator-proof fence, monitoring population health, and working with the State Government to establish wildlife corridors linking the Gardens to nearby Botanic Ridge.
Apart from the efforts from the Gardens, Ms Roberts is urging the local community to plant native vegetation such as Lomandra and tussock grass, which are essential cover for nesting bandicoots.
“Ultimately, they need more strappy native plants. We really hope that more people will plant,” she said.
“Because they lack habitats, these shelters could be a supplement that helps them.
“We don’t want people to only build things and not actually end up planting because habitats are the main thing that they need.”
A Dandenong-trained boilermaker apprentice has forged a victory at the 2025 Empowered Women in Trades (EWIT) Gala.
Ana Gamero, who trained at Chisholm Institute, was awarded Apprentice of the Year at the event in front of 400 industry leaders, apprentices and advocates at Marvel Stadium this month.
“In a male-dominated industry, it’s incredible to see women breaking barriers and empowering each other,” Gamero said.
“EWIT is proud to support and uplift women, especially single mums. You’re capable and strong — believe in yourself and keep shining.” Gamero was recognised for her technical excellence, leadership and dedication in a sector comprising of women in just 3 per cent of apprentices in trades.
The EWIT Gala celebrated the achievements of women and non-binary people in trades. It aimed to spotlight those breaking barriers and reshaping the future of Australia’s skilled workforce.
Gamero thanked Chisholm for its support and equipping her with strategies and knowledge to thrive.
Chisholm’s engineering education manager Maddie Dutton said the win was testament to the “strength and potential of women in trades”.
“(Gamero’s) journey reflects the values we champion – resilience, excellence and the courage to lead.”
Southern Brown Bandicoot outreach officer Eilish Roberts with one of the shelters. (Gary Sissons: 509892)
A Southern Brown Bandicoot.The photo was taken at Cranbourne Gardens.
Ana Gamero, student at Chisholm Institute and Apprentice of the Year at the 2025 EWIT Gala. (Supplied)
Supporting early detection
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) has launched a new Breast Cancer Awareness campaign, Know Yourself. Feel Yourself, urging women to give their breasts the same attention they give their faces in the mirror.
BCNA wants all women, particularly young women, to be confident in establishing a conscious breast routine. An action that could save their life.
For the first time data captured by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) shows that tumour size matters. It is one of the predictors of survival. Early detection is key, regular self-checks increase the likelihood of a woman noticing changes that don’t feel or look normal for them.
The Know Yourself. Feel Yourself campaign takes the familiar habit of focusing on our faces and reframes it as a reminder to check our breasts. BCNA has used the latest information to create a new step by step breast check education video to encourage women to be proactive in their breast health. Watch the video at https:// www.bcna.org.au/know-yourself-feel-yourself/
Breast Cancer Network Australia CEO, Kirsten Pilatti says the organisation is broadening its scope of support to include behavioural changes and early detection.
“As a network of women with lived experience, we know the big difference early detection can make and the latest data released by the AIHW confirms this. Our campaign creates awareness, and the breast check video provides a practical tool that empowers women to take action.”
Breast cancer is now the most common cancer in women in Australia. On average more than 1,000 women under age 40 each year– around three every day. Younger women are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage and with more aggressive disease, they face added challenges
including being dismissed by the health care system. Impacts include financial burden, fertility loss, early menopause and career disruption.
Jess Pearce, a mum and nurse who features in the campaign, knows this reality all too well. She was told she was “too young” when she first raised concerns about changes in her breast. A year later, aged just 33, she was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and has since undergone a double mastectomy.
How to check your breasts
Source: https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/ screening-and-diagnosis/how-to-check-yourbreasts/
Finding breast cancer early gives you the best chance of effective treatment.
You should examine your breasts regularly to
be aware of anything that looks or feels different.
If you notice any changes in your breast that are new or unusual for you, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Not all breast changes are cancerous (they may be ‘benign’ changes).
Screening with regular mammograms is also important, even when you don’t have any symptoms.
Work out what’s normal for your breasts
Everyone’s breasts look and feel different. They may be lumpy, different sizes from each other, or different shapes. One or both nipples might be pulled in (‘inverted’), either since birth or when your breasts developed.
Try to get used to your ‘normal’ by doing selfexamination regularly. There’s no right or wrong way to check. You can:
· Sit or stand in front of a mirror with your arms by your sides, then above your head or pulled back.
· Feel your breasts in the bath or shower, when you use body lotion or when you get dressed.
Just decide what you are comfortable with and what suits you best.
When you check your breasts, try to be aware of anything that’s different for you.
Symptoms of breast cancer to check for It’s common to hear “I felt a lump” from people who have had a breast cancer diagnosis. A lump is one sign, but there are many other symptoms or warning signs to watch for.
Breast changes may include:
· A lump or swelling in your breast or underarm (armpit)
· Changes in the shape or size of the breast
· Irritation or dimpling of your breast skin
· Pain in any area of your breast that is unusual or ongoing
· An indent (puckering) in part of the breast when you lift your arms
· A rash or red, crusty or flaky skin in your nipple area or your breast
· A change in the shape of the nipple, such as it turning inwards (‘inverting’)
· Discharge from the nipple, other than breast milk.
Remember to check all parts of your breast, your armpits, and up to your collarbone.
Not everyone has symptoms. In some cases, a lump is too small to be felt or cause any changes to the breast. Routine screening is important to pick up changes and cancers.
Don’t delay, if you find a change in your breast that’s unusual for you, see your doctor as soon as possible.
Jess Pearce is a mum and nurse who features in the campaign.
Discobility marks 26 years
By Violet Li
For more than a quarter of a century, Discobility has been lighting up Cranbourne with music, laughter, and connection.
On Wednesday 8 October, the community came together to celebrate Discobility’s 26th anniversary.
The dancefloor at The Factory in Cranbourne East came alive, as 65 people with disability and their carers joined in the fun at the disco designed to promote self-expression, connection, and inclusion through music and movement.
The dancefloor was full of energy as City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen joined participants on the floor, alongside Deputy Mayor Cr Melinda Ambros, Cr Gary Rowe, Cr Carolyn Eaves, and Casey’s joint Citizens of the Year, Anthony Hanna and Antonia Arfaras.
This year marks the 26th anniversary of the much-loved program.
Founder John Zammit said the idea began with asimple belief: everyonedeserves to dance.
“It’s all about inclusion,” he said.
“It’s all about people with disabilities who feel like they can be secluded from everything
else. Now our motto that we have is that everybody deserves to dance.
“Just because you have a disability doesn’t mean you can’t achieve anything in life. Everybody deserves to dance.
“We started it all to do more of a range of movements to help them with their movements and everything, and social interaction.”
When Discobility first started, only about a dozen people attended the weekly sessions. Today, more than 400 participants take part each week across four days.
The program, which began in Cranbourne, has grown purely through word-of-mouth.
Among the long-time regulars is Daniel, who has been part of Discobility for about 16 years.
Mr Zammit recalled a heartfelt letter Daniel once sent, saying that at Discobility, “people see me as a person, not as someone in a wheelchair.”
Discobility sessions are held every Monday and Wednesday at The Factory in Cranbourne East.
Each Discobility session helps participants develop a wide range of functions, including joint and muscle exercise, muscle strength, range of motion, and oral-motor skills, all within a fun, inclusive environment.
Melinda, Patricia, Yasitha and John.
John Zammit, Daniel Mamone and Jacqui De Young.
Sosefina, Michelle and John.
Michael Lane (Head of Operations and Production at the City of Casey); Andy Stringer (Co-ordinator of The Factory); Antonia Arfaras and Anthony Hanna (joint Citizens of the Year); John Zammit (Founder of Discobility); Todd Angwin (Discobility); Cr Carolyn Eaves, Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen; Deputy Mayor Cr Melinda Ambros; and Cr Gary Rowe. (Supplied)
John Zammit, Discobility founder. (Gary Sissons: 509960) Troy and John.
Initiative eases info flow
By Sahar Foladi
A new Dari language video has been launched by South East Water in partnership with community organisations to tackle language barriers amongst new arrivals.
Together with Southern Migrant Refugee Centre (SMRC) and Casey North Community Information Support Services (CISS), the video explains to new arrivals about their water bills and payment-support options available.
Dari is Afghanistan’s official language, as well as Pashto.
The initiative responds to the increasing demands for financial information, particularly in the 3977 postcode area of Cranbourne and surrounds which are overrepresented in South East Water’s bill-stress data.
South East Water’s general manager Karen Lau says its vital especially for new arrivals to know supports are available to them.
“We really want our customers to know, especially new arrival customers, that the water that comes out of your tap is safe to drink.
“So, some of our migrant communities come from places where the water straight out of the tap is not safe to drink and that might lead them to think that they need to be spending their limited resources on bottled water supply, for example.
“We like to reassure them that we have excellent quality drinking water. That can ease some financial pressure for families if they know that they can take that water straight from the tap.”
The video features Dari-speaking presenters Batool Hussaini and Wahjia Azimi, engaged through SMRC’s bicultural service to ensure the content is culturally appropriate and easily understood.
The video content also explains help is available during financial hardship.
It is hosted on the South East Water website on a special Dari language page, which is also added to the online self-help library of Casey
Financial Counsellor at Casey North CISS, Lauren Booth says language barrier is the key issue “right off the bat” for clients.
“I just think it’s really disappointing because they’re reaching out when they’re most vulnerable for the assistance and they’re already finding blocks.
“Even trying to access services like our crisis support and more longer-term case manage-
Serious, systemic gaps in the family-violence system
Wellsprings for Women is raising the alarm over growing challenges faced by migrant and refugee women experiencing family violence across the South East.
Over the past financial year, Wellsprings’ Family Violence Case Management Program has reported a significant rise in complex cases, exposing what it says are serious systemic gaps in protecting migrant and refugee women.
Some of the key issues identified are: lack of cultural understanding, women misidentified as the aggressor, language barriers and lack of interpreters, temporary visa vulnerabilities, overlooked forms of abuse such as dowry related violence and forced marriages, and health and financial barriers.
Wellsprings chief executive Dalal Smiley called for investment in existing culturally responsive and trauma-informed services.
She also called for mandatory access to interpreters, stronger coordination between housing, legal and support services, targeted support for women on temporary visas and systemic reform ensuring migrant and refugee women are heard, believed and protected.
“Family violence is not just about individual acts of harm, it is shaped by systemic failures, cultural misunderstandings and structural inequities. Addressing these barriers is a matter of justice and safety.
“Too often, the very systems meant to protect women are the ones failing them.“
As a result these women are left to navigate “discriminatory and fragmented systems“, Smiley said.
The demand for family violence support continues to surge, yet specialist services for migrant and refugee women remain severely under-resourced, according to Wellsprings.
Long waitlists and turn-aways are becoming the norm.
Wellsprings for Women casework report into family violence has found significant gaps and lack of cultural understanding. (Supplied)
“Our team is managing large caseloads with very limited housing options, all while carrying then emotional weight of the crisis they face every day,“ Oula Ibrahim, family violence manager at Wellsprings for Women says.
Women were frequently told to communicate only in English, or faced courts and service system that were inaccessible, discriminatory, or fragmented.
Some were forced to rely on their children or family members for interpretation, leading to breaches of confidentiality and compounding trauma.
Perpetrators exploited legal loopholes to sell assets, file cross applications for intervention orders, or monopolise legal services to block women from representation.
Reported family violence incidents in Greater Dandenong have soared 20 per cent since 2022-23, according to Crime Statistics Agency data. More than 3000 were reported in the past financial year.
If you or someone else you know needs help, call 1800RESPECT.
ment with our financial counselling.
“We just saw this massive gap. We thought wouldn’t it be great if we had something that we could send to these clients via email or in the mail or if they come in off the street, we can hand them some brochures and at least they feel connected to us.
“They feel like we’re wanting to assist them. We’re thinking of them.”
She says South East Water have “just starting
to chip away at it” and if the initiative is proven successful, it could have a “flow on effect”.
The City of Casey is home to more than 7,240 Dari speakers, with a 10.8 per cent increase recorded in the 2021 Census.
South East Water’s Dari-language videos are available at southeastwater.com.au/dari, with further information and support available in English at southeastwater.com.au/support or by calling 131 851.
North CISS.
SMRC CEO Jim Mullan, South East Water strategy manager Karen Lau and Casey North CISS financial counsellor Lauren Booth with the Dari-language leaflet. (Supplied)
with the trophy.
Cup fever hits local school
Excitement filled Devon Meadows Primary School on Friday 17 October as students welcomed the iconic Lexus Melbourne Cup trophy as part of its 2025 national tour. The visit was one of several Victorian stops on the 23rd Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour, which spans more than one million kilometres and connects communities across Australia and the world.
The 18-carat gold trophy, valued at $850,000, is known as the “Loving Cup” for its three handles representing the connection between jockey, trainer and owner. Victoria Racing Club CEO Kylie Rogers said the tour is “one of the most significant ways we can share the excitement and legacy of the Lexus Melbourne Cup with communities across Australia and beyond”.
Sienna
Indi with former Devon Meadows PS student and local horse trainer Robbie Griffiths, who also trained Big Pat in the 2003 Melbourne Cup. (Stewart Chambers: 510717)
Olivia with the trophy.
Dan Clohesy and Dr Andrew Lemon from Victoria Racing Club had a Q&A with the students from Devon Meadows PS.
Billy with the trophy.
Teagan from Victoria Racing Club showed Ivar and Anaya the cup.
Placings in the staff phantom race call of this year’s Melbourne Cup were Micah, Leigh and Molly. Aurora as a racehorse.
Stella with the trophy.
Ollie with the trophy.
Charlotte with the trophy.
Shiloh and Indi with the trophy.
WHAT’S ON
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-positively-festival 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 ageappropriate 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
locally-crafted 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. Lynbrook Community Centre expo 10th anniversary Open Day & Expo includes magic show, animal farm, live music, face painting, free popcorn and BBQ, workshops for CPR, calligraphy, childrens art class and cooking demo.
• Saturday 25 October 2pm-4pm at Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris Street, Lynbrook. Bookings for workshops: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1371153
Cancer Council Relay for Life
Relay For Life is a fun and moving experience that raises vital funds for Cancer Council’s research, prevention and support services. Celebrate local cancer survivors, those going through a cancer experience and their carers, as well as honour and remember loved ones lost and to raise money to help save more lives.
• Saturday 25 October 6pm - Sunday 26 October 12pm at Casey Fields Regional Athletics Centre, 160 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East. Details: Grant.White@cancervic.org.au
Antique fair
Berwick Antique & Collectible Fair showcases an impressive range of antique jewellery, cutlery, crockery, clocks and watches, lamps, jugs and other treasures for sale, along with expert valuations, local food stalls and Rotary’s signature sausage sizzle. All proceeds to Rotary community projects. Hosted by Rotary Clubs of Belgrave and Fern Tree Gully.
• Sunday 26 October 9am-4pm at Berwick Leisure Centre, Manuka Road, Berwick; adults $5, under-18s free. Details: berwickantiquefair.com.
au
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
Choir concert
Cranbourne Chorale presents “Showtime”, a varied mix of music that will have you tapping your toes. A delicious afternoon tea will be served after the concert. A fantastic hamper will be raffled off.
• Sunday October 26, 2pm at Presbyterian Church, cnr Sladen and Russell streets, Cranbourne; adult $25, conc. $20, children under 12 $5. Tickets available at the door, or book on 0438 358 032 or Humanitix website.
Navigating Friendships- at school and online
Prominent child-adolescent psychologist Dr Michael Carr-Gregg 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. Hosted by the Cyber Safety Project.
• Wednesday 29 October 5.30pm-7pm at Wilandra Rise Primary School, 25 Aayana Street, Clyde North. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1471034
Finger food feast
Come together for a finger food feast and enjoy Hoffmanns Duo performing covers of the classics.
• Thursday 30 October 12pm-2pm at Reveal Church, 2-8 Gleneagles Drive, Endeavour Hills; $10. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positivelyfestival
Dad’s group Halloween BBQ
For all fathers, grandfathers, father figures and their children. Wear Halloween fancy dress and come along for a free sausage sizzle. Prizes for the best family fancy dress (to win children and adults must be in fancy dress).
• Thursday 30 October 6.30pm-8pm at Casey Fields Playground BBQ (between the lake and the playground), Cranbourne East. Bookings:
trybooking.com/DFZRR
Community lunch for carers
Hosted by the Lynbrook Friendly Carers Group, this free lunch brings carers together for good food, great company, and a few fun games. Bookings are essential.
• Friday 31 October 11am-2pm at Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris Street,Lynbrook; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positivelyfestival
Halloween 2025
Get your scariest costumes ready and come along to the Old Cheese Factory for a night of spooky, kids fun.
• Friday 31 October, 5pm-9pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick. Tickets on sale early October.
Music in the Park
Spend a relaxing evening with the King of Swing – Frankie Davis Junior in the beautiful surrounds of Wilson Botanic Park. Sausage sizzle, icecream and donut trucks, or bring a picnic and drinks.
• Saturday 1 November 6pm-9pm at Lakeside Lawn, Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; $5 donation pp (children under 2 free).
Indoor Pickleball
Casual, indoor pickleball sessions. All equipment provided during this coach-free session.
• Mondays 7pm-8pm and Wednesdays 10am11am at Olive Road Sporting Complex, 2 Frawley Road, Eumemmerring; free cost, or Sundays 12.30pm-2.30pm at Vickerman Building, Casey Stadium, Cranbourne; $6.20 for two hours. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1343237 (Olive Road) or 5996 6052 (Casey Stadium).
Health & Wellbeing
Term 3 Health & Wellbeing classes starting in October: yoga, pilates, zumba, meditation and ‘move, relax and recharge’. Term 4 enrolments open online.
• Balla Balla Community Centre; free event. Bookings at balla.balla.com.au/health-wellbeing/ or 5990 0900.
Scrabble in Berwick
Fridays 9.30am-12.00pm at Berwick Neighbourhood Centre, 112 High Street, Berwick. Details: David, 0433 566 456.
Tons galore in lower grades
By Justin Schwarze
Absolutely thrilling results up and down the board made for a highly-entertaining round of cricket in the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) B Grade competition.
Devon Meadows nervously snuck by Officer with just one wicket in hand as Rajind Dassanayake (32 not out) hit the winning runs.
After Panthers bowlers Kale Lyne and David Fisher took two wickets each to roll the Bullants at home for 117, the chase began slowly.
Stefan De Silva (3/17) applied significant pressure to the visitors but useful knocks from Mark Cosgriff (27) and Peter Deighton (13) got Devon Meadows to 9/118 and across the line.
Pakenham Upper/Toomuc survived in its defence of 9/111 against a daring Tooradin at Harry Blackman Oval.
Young gun Addison Tucker (35) led the Yabbies at the crease in the first innings while his dad Adam (23) also contributed well.
Jeremy Bodley (3/12) was extremely tidy off his six over and Riley McLeod bagged two scalps to help keep the runs down.
Peter Stone (25) was important at the top in the pursuit and Adam Jacobs (28) batted well for the Seagulls.
James Gillam (29 not out) was the only other Tooradin bat to manage double-figures as seven Seagulls wickets fell for two or less runs.
The visitors batted the full amount of time but couldn’t hit the mark, finishing at 9/101 with Alex Prendergast’s 3/18 off seven overs being decisive for Pakenham Upper/Toomuc.
Nar Nar Goon made it three wins in a row thanks to standout performance at the crease from Jarratt Eastburn (59 not out) and Tim Miller (24), aiding the Marygoons in posting 6/145 against Merinda Park.
Paxon Smith (3/19) and Brenton Huyskens (2/10) combined for five of the six Nar Nar Goon scalps.
Hayden Cleland (55) and Bradley Hodge (34) tried their best for the Cobras but wickets came in bunches and Merinda Park stumbled to 8/132.
Maninder Singh tore through the Cobras, grabbing figures of 4/23.
A brilliant batting display saw Emerald victorious over Lang Lang at home.
Mark Alenson (52), Caleb Lobbe (75) and Nicholas Karman (40 not out) all fuelled the Bombers in notching 6/219.
Max de Longville (59) and Hash Dayanada (39) showed some resistance for the Tigers but it wasn’t enough as Lang Lang couldn’t keep up the run rate and concluded its innings 5/179.
C GRADE
A bloodbath at Lakeside Oval had Carlisle Park posting an imposing nine-wicket triumph over Pakenham Upper/Toomuc.
The Vikings won the toss and chose to take to the field in a decision that quickly looked genius.
The Yabbies were rolled for just 26 after just over 22 overs on a day of truly unbelievable bowling.
Nigel Preece (4/6) and Paresh Naik (4/5) were unplayable.
It only took five-and-a-half overs for Carlisle Park to chase down the winning score with just
one blemish at 1/29.
Melbourne Sixers (4/173) comfortably got past Clyde (8/172) at Inez Hunter Recreation Reserve.
Christopher Jones (30), Blake Russell (43) and Martin Gurry (31) pushed the Cougars to a very competitive score but ultimately Nalaka Nawagaththegama (46), Gayan Ekanayake (49), Kavinga Ranaraja (22 not out) and Nuwan Gunawardhana (22 not out) boosted the Sixers to victory.
A wonderful knock of 73 from Jonathan George supported by 42 from Joseph Chirayath Raphael pushed Kerala Strikers (8/195) past Pakenham (5/148).
Valiant efforts from Lincoln Varty (40), Shahane Perera (25) and Amanat Benipal (29 not out) were noteworthy in defeat for the Lions.
An over 100-run partnership between Harry Herbert (53) and Curtis Eddington (33 not out) willed Kooweerup (7/149) over Upper Beaconsfield (103).
In the chase, Paul West dominated with 4/21 off 6.4 overs and Indiana Boswell snagged 2/21 for the Demons.
Kalhan Wehigala top scored for the Maroons
Big win for sizzling Casey
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Casey charged to a magnificent 246-run win over Melbourne on Saturday and now sits atop the Vic Premier Cricket table two matches into the season.
Backing up his mammoth double century which set Casey up with a total of 2/395d, Finlay Gordon took 3/54 in an impressive 11-over spell of offspin bowling.
Gordon dismissed two of the visitors’ top three batters at Casey Fields, breaking an 85run partnership which put the game firmly on the Swans’ terms – a position they didn’t surrender.
Fellow new recruit Muhammad Irfan was also disciplined, with the opening bowler sending down 14 overs to finish with team-best figures of 4/41 at a frugal economy rate of 2.92.
Natham Labden and Ashvin Adihetty took two scalps each.
The Swans will face Melbourne in a top-ofthe-table clash at Casey in a two-dayer starting on Saturday.
Casey’s Second XI successfully defended 286, with Evan Allaway taking 3/45 opening the bowling, with one of his wickets being established batter Michael Forwood who gave Melbourne University a great foundation.
Matthew Sheridan, Akshay Ramkumar and Aaron Abeyesekera took two scalps each.
An unbeaten 163 to Melbourne University opener Naman Sharma consigned Casey’s Third XI to a seven wicket loss, with Rohan Matthew and Matthew Blanch the clear pick of the bowlers.
The Fourth XI lost outright, bowled out for 38 and 117 chasing 223.
with 41 not out.
D GRADE
Wonderful spells from Jismon Joseph (5/16) and Sukhraj Aujla (3/12) ensured Kerala Strikers (6/81) victory over Pakenham (80).
An all-around team effort from Merinda Park highlighted by Chris Smith (34), Leigh Smith (39) and Ryan Sharma (4/29) got the job done for the Cobras (148) over Cardinia (119).
Devon Meadows (3/200) bagged a resounding against Pakenham Upper/Toomuc (91) result thanks to fabulous knocks from Arthur Churchill (93), David Carson (65 not out) and Peter O’Brien (25).
The one-two punch of Gary Plunkett (106) and Matthew Lucas (51) saw Officer (6/274) withstand 102 from Abhi Sharma and 48 not out from Jed Taylor for Nar Nar Goon (7/185).
E GRADE WEST
Jason Brzezowski (57) and Anthony Brown (73 not out) got Devon Meadows to its second consecutive win by outlasting Officer (7/178) and 44 from Harry Austin-Groome.
Three wickets each from Camden Nutting and
Nital Tawde aided Carlisle Park (3/126) to restrict Kerala Strikers (120).
Andrew Myers (53) and Mike Chapman (40 not out) led the successful run chase.
Shaun Tongue’s 55 combined with Beau Skeats’ 36 was influential in Tooradin (5/127) knocking off 43 not out from Riley Balaam and Merinda Park (4/124).
E GRADE EAST
An innings for the ages of 154 not out from Sreenu Doguparthi saw Avengers blast their way to 5/316 and comfortably hold off Cardinia (9/102).
The 154 came off 73 balls and included 12 fours and an astounding 14 sixes.
A tight contest at Worrell Reserve had Emerald (4/227) just sneaking by Pakenham (5/216).
Andrew Ferrier tore it up in the first innings with 124 not out off 66 balls as he hit 22 boundaries.
An exceptional 111 not out from Brett Oldfield wasn’t enough for the Lions as the Bombers took the points.
Officer won by forfeit against Pakenham Upper/Toomuc.
Muhammad Irfan junior bowled well for Casey on Saturday. (Rob Carew: 507560)
Jarratt Eastburn hit 59 not out for Nar Nar Goon in victory over Merinda Park. (Stewart Chambers: 511075)
CASEY CARDINIA CRICKET ASSOCIATION LOWER GRADES REVIEW
Bulls teach Lions a lesson
By Justin Schwarze
Cardinia showed its class with a resounding victory over Pakenham in round three of the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) Premier Division.
The Bulls chose to bat after winning the toss and headed out to the middle in enemy territory at Toomuc Reserve.
In a contrasting way of play, Morteza Ali was hitting the ball to all parts while Travis Welsh was methodical and patient.
Ali smacked a Marcus Martini over for 18 runs, including three fours and one six.
But Welsh ultimately couldn’t get going for the visitors, hitting just three runs off 20 deliveries before he was run out by James Close.
The following over, Tom Tyrell bowled Bradey Welsh (2) to push Cardinia to 2/42. Ali (36) wasn’t far behind, playing a risky shot and snicking off Jack Scott.
Travis Wheller and Matt Welsh then had to dig deep and form a resistance as the pair began to build a handy partnership.
Wheller (28) became the fourth man to go but suddenly the Bulls were at 4/113.
Welsh continued to bat beautifully, reaching a half century and raising the bat.
Jason Williams then produced a massive over for the hosts, starting with Zach Flaxman’s quick hands to stump Yohan Arumadura before Jacobus Hynes was caught by Scott two balls later.
Welsh fell in the 33rd over for 63 before some gritty batting in the tail order saw Cardinia through to 9/198.
Williams took 3/27 off eight overs and Nicholas Sadler and Tyrell both bagged two scalps each.
In the chase, things got off to a disastrous start for the Lions with skipper Jack Anning (2) having his stumps knocked over after a good ball from Trishane De Silva.
Jackson Luka (3) was also bowled early, this time by Josh Browne.
Imesh Jayasekara and Flaxman stood tall to stop the bleeding until Flaxman was run out for 26.
Jayasekara (63) remained dangerous, notching a half-ton but started to run out of batting partners.
No other Pakenham bat made more than nine after Flaxman’s dismissal, leading to the Bulls grabbing three wickets in four balls and effective-
ly ending the game.
The Lions were bowled out for 132, marking a 66-run victory for the reigning premiers.
“I think we’re trending on the up which is always positive,” Cardinia coach Hynes said.
“The one-dayers are always an adjustment period at the start of the season so the real test is going to be next week with the two-day cricket.
“We’re tracking in the right direction.
“It was good that we could bat through the overs.
“If we’re critiquing anything it’s probably that a few of our batters probably threw away their wicket.
“To bat out the 40 was good and Matt was just awesome as always.
“Our fielding was a lot better, our singles were a lot better, we turned the strike over a lot more.
“It was good to get a good score to defend and not be as nervous as we have been every other game.”
Once again, the deep bowling unit was the difference maker for the Bulls.
Six different bowlers nabbed a wicket, with Lachie Volpe (3/6) and Travis Wheller (2/34) the only multiple wicket-takers.
“It’s always been our strength to be able to bowl really deep,” Hynes said.
“Matt is one of our best bowlers and he didn’t even bowl so it was a very good example of how deep we are.
“Travvy Wheller bowled for the first time coming back from injury so it was good to see him take a few wickets and establish a good plan into the future into how we can utilise our spinners in the middle overs.
“However, I think we’re still working on a little bit of consistency in line and length with our opening bowlers.
“If we can keep going with the pressure early on and refine our little critiques then it’s going to be really hard to score big against us.”
A well-rounded attack in the bowling and field boosted Kooweerup to a perfect 3-0 record in the first one-day section of the season as the Demons (4/139) comfortably dealt with Clyde (137).
Luke McMaster, Shiran Rathnayake, Farhan
Hussain and Charith Keethisinghe all claimed two wickets while Kooweerup also secured two run outs.
In the pursuit, Mitch Kleinig managed to dismiss Chris Bright for a duck and Lucas Brown got his first Premier wicket when he claimed the wicket of McMaster for 28.
However, winning knocks from Mitch Davey (48 not out), Adam McMaster (25 not out) and Rathnayake (24) guided the Demons home.
At Clyde Recreation Reserve, Tooradin (1/160) was far too good for the Cougars (9/159) despite Kane Avard notching 74 runs.
Seagulls vice-skipper Josh Lownds is the most in-form player of the competition as the superstar took 3/25 before scoring 67 in the successful chase.
Cal O’Hare (71 not out) and Russell Lehman (two wickets) were also important for the visitors. In round four the two day matches start and Tooradin will welcome Kooweerup to Rutter Park, Cardinia hosts Upper Beaconsfield, Clyde visits Pakenham and Devon Meadows and Officer will clash at Booring Reserve.
Undefeated heavyweights ready for local cricket battle
By Justin Schwarze
There are two major storylines heading into round four of the CCCA Premier Division.
The first is the competition format switch with all games heading to two-dayers for the next four rounds.
The second is the fact that two teams enter the round undefeated - and it seems only one will exit unblemished.
Tooradin and Kooweerup will meet at Rutter Park in a blockbuster early-season matchup with both sides looking dominant so far this season.
Josh Lownds is in scorching form with 132 not out and two wickets last week, followed by 67 runs and two wickets on Saturday.
The Demons are also firing on all cylinders as they boast one of the scariest bowling lineups in the competition, made scarier by skipper and coach Charith Keerthisinge.
In what is a battle of heavyweights, the Seagulls only have the slightest advantage due to the game being on their home deck, but it will come right down to the wire.
Pakenham is back at home and the Lions look to bounce back against Clyde.
The Cougars can be a lethal team but have looked below par in their last two hitouts, a trend that can also be said about Pakenham.
The Lions need more out of their top order and can take advantage of a Clyde bowling unit that is still taking shape outside of Ankush Rana. Both Devon Meadows and Officer will aim to get off the mark when the clubs clash at Booring Reserve.
The Bullants should’ve won last week and will be left incredibly frustrated it fell through
CASEY
their fingers.
However, the play and bowling should suggest a bounce back is imminent whilst the Panthers’ batting order has been inconsistent outside of superstar Lucas Ligt.
Cardinia searches for a hat-trick of wins
when Upper Beaconsfield, also on a three-game win streak, visits.
The Bulls need more depth batting as their bowling has held them in good stead in their opening three matches.
A lot of responsibility sits on the top order as
Cardinia has struggled to lay a foundation early in its batting innings.
Tips: TOORADIN v Kooweerup, CARDINIA v Upper Beaconsfield, PAKENHAM v Clyde, Devon Meadows v OFFICER.
Josh Lownds has all guns blazing right now for Tooradin. (Stewart Chambers: 509511)
Josh Browne struck early and bowled Jackson Luka. (Gary Sissons: 509514)
Nicholas Sadler grabbed a pair of wickets in defeat for Pakenham. (Stewart Chambers: 509511)
CASEY CARDINIA CRICKET ASSOCIATION ROUND 3 REVIEW
Cobras get past Yabbies
By Justin Schwarze
Merinda Park is currently the team to beat in the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) A Grade competition as the Cobras held off fellow contender Pakenham Upper/Toomuc in round three.
The Yabbies batted first at Lochaven Reserve but things didn’t begin according to plan when Prabath Kobbekaduwa was bowled for a duck in the first over by Matt Dennerley.
Mitch Mibus (13) hung around but was dismissed by Tyson Bertrand before Chris Ryan became the backbone of the visitors’ innings.
Ryan played some class shots on his way to reaching a well-earned 50, supported well by Allan Collins (33).
Pramod Rathnayake (1), Brian Kulasena (17) and Raja Sohail (5) then came and went as the hosts tore through the middle order.
Skipper John Langley (18) was the last bat to provide a double-digit score and Pakenham Upper/Toomuc was rolled for 154.
Bevin Corneille took three poles while Leigh Paterson and Sasindu Perera both bagged two wickets.
Ben McLeod struck early in the second innings, dismissing Corneille for 10.
But opener Jordan King was phenomenal at the crease, batting patiently and efficiently to keep the scoreboard ticking over for Merinda Park.
Cameos from Cambell Bryan (20) and Ashley Slater (16) got the Cobras right on track and once King posted his half-ton, victory was in sight.
The hosts carefully navigated the overs to bring up 5/156 and a five-wicket triumph.
Tooradin also moved to 3-0 with a smashing of Clyde at Rutter Park.
The Seagulls chose to bat first and the decision paid dividends with Bailey Lownds scoring 61 before Michael Ralph dominated with 101 not out off 109 deliveries.
Ralph smashed 11 fours in his knock and was supported well with 60 off 43 balls from Liam Simpson.
The hosts posted 4/277 after the 40 and turned and did damage with the ball.
The Cougars managed to see out the overs but fell well short of the total, finishing at 9/171.
Luke Adams bagged three wickets while Luke Townsend and Tom Rodgers nabbed two each.
Nar Nar Goon’s batting was a masterclass against Kooweerup with four Marygoons bats posting scores over 30.
Dimantha Fernando (50), Liam Hill (55) and James Markland (31) were all outstanding in pushing Nar Nar Goon to 5/243.
Christopher O’Hara’s 63 in retaliation for the Demons wasn’t enough as they fell short at 8/167.
Russell Perry posted 3/31 off six overs in victory for the Marygoons.
Carlisle Park got off the mark with a comfortable win over Pakenham at home.
Steve Insall (34) and Sendhil Naidu (31) top scored for the Lions in the first innings but ultimately they were rolled for 139.
Adam Hollingworth recorded figures of 3/29 off his seven overs while Tanvir Singh and Jaan Balasuriya both snagged two poles.
Rising star Ethan Davies posted his first halfcentury of the campaign with a fine innings of 53
before Singh blasted his way to 63 not out from just 41 deliveries.
The Vikings got over the line with a score of 4/143 after 27.1 overs.
Cardinia picked up a confidence boost with a versatile performance against Emerald.
The Bombers took to the crease first but struggled with Michael Nell (22) the only bat providing a big score in the top order.
Bodie Hughes (29) made a good contribution before he was caught off the bowling of Jye ShawRemy.
Trent Rolfs (35) played a handy knock in the lower order with James Sheerin (15), Oscar Dempsey (13 not out) and Lawson Cocks (11) adding some much-needed scores to the tail before Emerald was all out for 168.
Shaw-Remy and Ryan Little took three scalps each.
In the chase, the Bulls lost Bradley Remy (9) early but Brandon Mackie (46) was excellent as an opener.
Bradley Reiner (2) was trapped in front by Jack Raukola but Cardinia was unfazed as Justin Berry
raised the bat and brought the hosts within the grasp of a triumph.
Trent Wheller (35 not out) and Brayden Browne (21 not out) got the Bulls past the target at 4/172.
Raukola claimed three of the four Cardinia wickets in a notable effort despite defeat.
In round four, Emerald hosts Merinda Park, Pakenham visits Clyde, Tooradin travels to face Kooweerup, Pakenham Upper/Toomuc
Nar Nar Goon to
home
welcomes
Harry Blackman and Carlisle Park stays at
to play Cardinia.
Oscar Dempsey takes a big swing for Emerald. (Stewart Chambers: 511300)
Cardinia captain Ryan Little gives his all in the field. (511300)
Matt Dennerley took a pole in the opening over against Pakenham Upper/ Toomuc. (Gary Sissons: 507567)
Carlisle Park got its first win of the season over Pakenham. (507567)
Jye Shaw-Remy took 3/34 for the victorious Bulls. (511300)
CASEY CARDINIA CRICKET ASSOCIATION A GRADE REVIEW
