Festive makeover
Over the weekend, Berwick’s High Street was given a magical festive makeover, with help from a local trader, Bodega on High.
A magnificent Christmas tree, larger-than-life nutcrackers, and glittering light displays now line the street, creating a warm and vibrant holiday atmosphere.
During this festive season after years of minimal decorations, locals are now able to dine at cafes and shop local all while enjoying the new display.
The conversation surrounding bringing back the Christmas decorations for Berwick’s High street was originally prompted by Akoonah ward councillor, Scott Dowling.
Dowling said he went to many local traders along the busy street over the last few months encouraging them to decorate their shop fronts for the holiday season.
It was then that Bodega generously offered to step up.
One small business owner, Ewa Madeley who owns RX Cosmetic Clinic near the festive displays, said she was ecstatic that another local business took the initiative this year.
“I’m so happy that someone did this amazing thing for our community,” said Ewa.
“Hopefully I and other businesses will get involved next year as well”.
Colleen, who is another Casey local, commended Bodega for “bringing such a beautiful Christmas display to Berwick”.
For more on this story, go to page 3
Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen dropped by to help out. He was with Find A Penny Foundation volunteers Karem, Bryan, BB (director), Camille, Doina and Carla. (Stewart Chambers: 521030)
Calls for support
By Violet Li
Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) is pushing for simpler rates hardship applications, clear decision timeframes and multilingual communication in its submission to the State Government’s draft ratepayer hardship guidelines.
Draft Ministerial Guidelines for Councils relating to payment of Rates and Charges aims to provide direction to Councils to review and update (as necessary) their existing hardship and debt management policies in relation to the payment of rates and charges.
The Draft sets out clear expectations for how Victorian councils must support ratepayers experiencing hardship, including modern and flexible payment options, easy-to-understand and accessible communication, fair and compassionate decision-making, and strong privacy protections.
The draft clarifies the legal definitions of hardship and financial hardship, outlines when councils may defer or waive rates and requires that debt recovery be paused while hardship applications are assessed.
It also establishes expectations for accessible payment plans, proportionate information requests, transparent policies, and careful consideration of circumstances such as family violence or economic abuse.
Councils must publish clear hardship policies, offer multiple ways for residents to apply, avoid charging interest during approved deferrals or payment plans, and only escalate to court action
or land sale after all other options are exhausted.
CRRA President Anthony Tassone said the Draft is an important opportunity to modernise the way councils support vulnerable residents during periods of financial stress.
“Across Casey, many families are under real pressure from the rising cost of living, insecure work, caring responsibilities, illness, disability and unexpected life events,” he said.
“Our submission calls for a compassionate, practical and consistent statewide approach so residents in hardship are treated fairly regardless of their circumstances or postcode.”
CRRA’s submission argues the draft should be strengthened through several additional recommendations, including minimum statewide standards for hardship support to reduce inequity between councils, proportionate and simple evidence requirements, so seeking help is not burdensome, clear assessment timeframes to ensure timely decisions and prevent unnecessary escalation, prominent, accessible and multilingual communication about available hardship options, stronger training for council staff in traumainformed practice, family violence, mental health and culturally appropriate communication, and annual public reporting to improve transparency, trust and accountability.
CRRA states that these measures align with best-practice recommendations from the Victorian Ombudsman, the Essential Services Commission and the National Debt Helpline.
CRRA’s submission also identifies several areas
where the City of Casey can strengthen its own hardship policy, with recommendations for clearer public communication on rate notices, more flexible re-entry arrangements for payment plans, simplified documentation requirements, expanded long-term relief options, regular public reporting of hardship outcomes and stronger integration with external support services.
Mr Tassone said many residents are unaware of the help available to them.
“Casey has a formal hardship policy in place, but many residents do not know that payment extensions, tailored arrangements or other relief are available until they fall behind.”
“Council can do more to make this support visible, accessible and easier to navigate so people can get help early rather than reaching crisis point.”
CRRA’s submission also emphasised the importance of councils actively referring residents to reputable support services such as the National Debt Helpline, which offers free and confidential financial counselling and advice.
“Providing clear referral pathways and encouragingearlyengagement with financial counsellors is critical. It can help stabilise household budgets and prevent problems from escalating unnecessarily,” Mr Tassone said.
To view the draft and submit your feedback, visit: engage.vic.gov.au/local-government-ratesministerial-guidelines-relating-to-payment-ofrates-and-charg
The submission closes on 5 December.
Committee elected
By Jensy Callimootoo
Following a special general meeting on November 29, the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) has elected Anthony Tassone as its president for the 2025-26 term.
President Tassone said he was honoured to take on the role and was committed to strengthening the voice of the community.
“I am truly honoured to be elected President of the CRRA, and deeply grateful for the trust and support of our members,” said Tassone.
“The CRRA has always stood for something bigger than any one of us, a strong, independent voice for a community that deserves to be heard, respected and genuinely included in the decisions that shape our city.
“I’m excited to work with our Committee and with our community to continue pushing for transparency, fair treatment, responsible planning and the essential services and infrastructure that residents and families across Casey urgently need.
“Together, we will stand up for residents and ratepayers with energy, integrity and a determination to see our city thrive.”
The association has also elected a committee that will ensure the organisation’s ongoing independent advocacy on behalf of the Casey community.
This will include Tom Kapitany as Vicepresident, Andrew Goldsworthy as Secretary and Helen Horvath as Treasurer.
As well as three ordinary committee members, Sam Dennison, David Parr and Brian Oates.
Casey schools prepare for social media restrictions
By Jensy Callimootoo
The controversial social media restrictions for under 16s will take effect on December 10 and in preparation, some local schools have begun to send notices to parents.
The rule will require users to verify their age on platforms such as Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat and X, in an attempt to restrict them to ages 16 and over.
Ahead of the restrictions and in preparing staff, students and families, Fiona Williams, a principal from Casey Grammar says the school has taken a proactive and supportive approach.
“We have embedded lessons into our Wellbeing Curriculum across all year levels to help students understand the changes, reflect on their screen habits and develop healthy digital behaviours,” she said.
“Assemblies and classroom discussions have created safe spaces for students to ask questions and express their thoughts.”
They’ve also aimed to ensure families feel informed and supported throughout this change, through educational video resources as well as providing regular updates through newsletters and information sessions.
“An information evening was also held to allow parents and carers to ask questions and receive expert guidance from our leadership and counselling teams,” Mrs Williams said.
“These initiatives are part of a whole-school
effort to ensure the transition is not only smooth but also a valuable opportunity to strengthen student wellbeing and community connection.”
According to the Victorian Department of Education, updated advice and resources was provided to schools on 25 November.
As well as the state department, the federal Minister for Education and Minister for Communication have written to every principal of regis-
tered schools in the country, providing an update on the restrictions and the Anti-Bullying Rapid Review.
According to a spokesperson, the letter acknowledges the leadership of principals in supporting implementation of these key Australian Government commitments, within their school community, to ensure that all Australian schools are safe, inclusive and respectful learning envi-
ronments.
There’s now less than two weeks until the restrictions takes effect but Mrs Williams says the school does not “anticipate significant issues on campus”.
“Students understand the reasons behind the policy and have been active participants in discussions around digital wellbeing,” she said.
Already in line with the reforms, the school prohibits the students from bringing devices like phones, smart watches and wireless earphones to school.
“This policy, which allows only basic mobile phones for necessary out-of-hours contact, aligns well with the new legislation and places us in a strong position for compliance.”
Just a few weeks ago, Beaconhills College in Berwick and Pakenham also issued notices to students and families.
Parents were encouraged by the school to sit down with their children to discuss upcoming expectations and approaches when using technology in the near future.
Similar to the advice from the federal department, the school highlighted the onus on schools and families to be decision-makers in supporting the restrictions.
For more information on the new legislation and how to get young people prepared for the social media, go to esafety.gov.au/about-us/industry-regulation/social-media-age-restrictions-hu
CRRA President Anthony Tassone said the Draft is an important opportunity to modernise the way councils support vulnerable residents during periods of financial stress. (File)
The ban is set to take effect next week. (Joel Carrett/AAP)
Tom Kapitany has been elected CRRA vicepresident.
Holiday cheer in High Street
By Jensy Callimootoo
Berwick locals are delighted after High Street received a major Christmas renovation over the weekend with help from a much loved local trader — Bodega on High.
The council collaborated with Bodega to achieve the restorations after years of no decorations along the busy street.
The street has now been adorned with a giant Christmas tree accompanied by two giant nutcrackers, light displays, and candy canes.
The holiday blitz was put on the table back in August during a council meeting wherein Cr Scott Dowling motioned for the council to support the Christmas decoration initiative by contributing $50,000 to Berwick High street.
The motion ultimately failed due to lack of support from other councillors.
But a second motion was carried to equally divide the $50,000 funds in a Christmas pilot program between High Street in Berwick and Cranbourne.
The split funds of $25,000 covered the red bows and wreaths in Berwick.
It was then that Bodega reached out to Cr Dowling to fund the rest of the decorations,
A Bodega spokesperson said they worked with Cr Dowling and council “to produce something for the community to enjoy”.
The generous contribution has since sparked an array of positivity from the community for the cafe and those who were involved.
“What a fantastic gesture from this small business,” Nicole said on social media.
Jane, another local, said it brought “a wonderful spirit to Berwick and surrounds”.
Cr Dowling said he was pleased with the reaction from locals.
“It goes to show the spirit of Christmas is alive and well,” said the Councillor.
“Hopefully more local businesses would like to be involved as Christmas is a wonderful tradition that brings people together.
“I am delighted with the Christmas decorations in our High Street of Berwick and the amazing community response.
“The elaborate scope of the High Street decorations wouldn’t have been possible without the support from a local trader, Bodega on High, they generously offered to assist the council with the
Christmas activation to give back to the community,”
In addition to the festivities, local businesses and traders on High street Berwick have also been encouraged to decorate their shop fronts for a chance to win Casey’s Christmas light competition.
Local men find community and meaning
By Jensy Callimootoo
Over 100 men of all ages from the region of Casey gathered together at Bunjil Place on Monday night in an initiative aimed to give local men and fathers the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about life experiences, relationships and wellbeing.
The event platformed a range of guest speakers during the panel including AFL premiership and mental health advocate, Tom Boyd.
As well as local panellists, former police officer Gavin Patterson and Melbourne City Football Club’s head of community, Sunil Menon.
According to Cr Shane Taylor in a social media post, the group of panelists “all shared honest stories about resilience, family and the importance of showing up as present dads and father figures.”
Cr Scott Dowling of Akoonah Ward said that the event served as a dynamic and interactive forum.
“It was a great cross section of men, fathers, grandfathers and some with their sons, who in some cases, initiated their dads attendance,” said Cr Dowling.
“Many deep and honest discussions with shared experiences took place, about strengthening emotional wellbeing, maintaining respectful family relationships and making time to connect and being present in mind and body during family time.”
Throughout the night, attendees also took part in conversations about family violence and the secondary impacts it has on the home and community.
“The enablers tended to be agitated from financial difficulties and increased pressure on the cost of living exacerbated by alcohol abuse and gambling,” explained Cr Dowling.
“Statistically one in four women experience a degree of domestic violence as opposed to one in every fourteen men.
“As the night went on the smiles increased, many new relationships were formed, phone numbers exchanged and a better understanding that it’s ok to say ‘you are not Ok’ and know you are not alone.”
“Christmas is a beloved family tradition that has been missing for too long and it’s been great to see the local traders participating with colourful window displays and the chance to win a best in show award from the council,” said Cr Dowling.
“We encourage residents to light up their houses also with a chance to win a $500 voucher.
Worker charged
By Afraa Kori
Police have laid charges against a 41-yearold Narre Warren woman, following an alleged assault of a three-year-old child at a Pakenham childcare centre in October.
Shakila Nasseri has been charged with aggravated assault and unlawful assault, which allegedly occurred at First Early Learning in Pakenham on 17 October.
She has been bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 16 January 2026.
The alleged victim, a three-year-old boy, was described as being upset and beginning to hit and kick staff shortly after arriving at the centre at 7am, according to media reports.
His mother was allegedly called to collect him just 40 minutes after he was dropped off due to his behaviour.
Later that day, she was reportedly informed by the centre manager that her son had been struck across the face by a staff member.
Since the incident, Nasseri has allegedly been dismissed from the centre. The boy has also been suspended from the centre.
The Gazette attempted to contact the boy’s family.
The giant Christmas tree and nutcrackers also serve as a perfect photo spot. (Ewa Madeley)
Onlookers and motorist are also able to enjoy the Christmas tree and nutcrackers. (Supplied)
Locals are able to enjoy the festive scenery around High Street. (Ewa Madeley)
First Early Learning Pakenham. (Stewart Chambers: 520926)
Over 100 people attended the event at Bunjil Place.
Cr Scott Dowling and attendees, including panelist, Gavin Patterson.
According to Cr Dowling, many came along with their sons and relatives.
Some Casey Councillors with panelists and organisers. (Supplied)
Only road out, no lights...
By Violet Li
Residents in Cranbourne East and Clyde North’s fast-growing estates are calling for urgent traffic lights on Linsell Boulevard, warning that the road, currently their only arterial exit, has become a stressful and increasingly risky merge point during peak hours.
A local Sukhbir Singh Pabla has started a petition to call for two sets of traffic lights along the 3-kilometre stretch of Linsell Boulevard between Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road and Salendra Rise to help “break the continuous flow of traffic, reduce idle times, and create a much safer environment for all road users” during the long peak hours.
Two traffic lights have been proposed at the intersections of Linsell Boulevard with Casey Fields Boulevard and Broad Oak Drive.
At the time of writing, the petition, which required the action of the City of Casey and VicRoads, has gained about 550 signatures.
Residents in the Brindalee and Cascades estates north of Linsell Boulevard have only one exit—merging directly onto Linsell Boulevard.
According to Mr Pabla, morning peak hours now stretch from 6am to 9.30am, and evening peaks from 2.30pm to 6.30pm.
He stated in the petition that during these times, turning right onto Linsell Blvd (at speeds of 40-60 km/hr) can take up to 10 minutes, while even turning left has become risky due to the constant flow of vehicles.
“What used to be a simple 10-minute school run has turned into a stressful 30-minute ordeal,” he wrote.
“This situation has caused growing anxiety among drivers, leading to frequent near-misses and minor collisions.
“Every day, vehicles, children on bikes, and elderly pedestrians risk their safety just to cross the road to reach schools, playgrounds, and parks.”
Mr Pabla also pointed out that the situation had deteriorated sharply over the past two years, after the completion of Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road upgrades funnelled a three-lane surge of traffic onto Linsell Boulevard, merging into a single lane without any signals to stop the traffic flow until the Selandra Boulevard.
“My son goes for soccer training. His training is at 5pm. My wife hates it, not because of taking him, but because she has to go through that road. It’s horrible,” he said.
“They (relevant authorities) did obviously talk about traffic lights at Casey Fields Boulevard, but no one could tell me what they’re doing towards it.
“Just nothing. No information. They don’t seem to be doing anything to make it happen.”
Mr Pabla has reached out to local politicians via email to share his concerns, and Holt MP Cassandra Fernando got back to him with a response from the Casey Council.
Casey Council acknowledged the growing problem in a written response, confirming that traffic volumes on Linsell Boulevard have increased significantly, contributing to peak-hour congestion, delays and unsafe merge conditions for nearby estates.
Council noted that the Cranbourne East Precinct Structure Plan (PSP), Croskell PSP, and the Collison Development Plan include future plans to signalise the Casey Fields Boulevard intersection, while the Croskell PSP also proposes extending Casey Fields Boulevard north to Thompsons Road, creating a second access
corridor for residents north of Linsell Boulevard.
However, Council admitted current funding remains insufficient to deliver the signalised intersection, meaning upgrades would need to be funded through Council’s Capital Works Program, or supported by State or Federal infrastructure grants.
Looking ahead, the Cranbourne East PSP also classifies Linsell Boulevard as a Potential Future Declared Arterial Road, flagged for handover to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP, formerly VicRoads) and eventual expansion into a four-lane arterial. Council said it would advocate for the State Government to prioritise the road’s transfer and upgrade in the short term, though residents argue rising risks demand immediate, not eventual, signal controls.
When inquired, Casey Council provided Star News a similar response.
Disability at dusk celebration uplifts community
City of Casey Manager of City and Asset Planning, Keri New said Council acknowledges community concerns regarding traffic safety and congestion along Linsell Boulevard. “Traffic signals are planned for the intersection of Casey Fields Boulevard and Linsell Boulevard. Council has commenced initial planning; however, funding for this project is yet to be confirmed. The intersection at Broad Oak Drive is not planned for traffic signals.
“The proposed extension of Casey Fields Boulevard to Thompsons Road will be considered by developers in the future, as part of subdivision permits within the Croskell Precinct Structure Plan (PSP).
“There is currently no set timeline for Linsell Boulevard to become a declared State Road; however, Council is actively advocating for its declaration.”
When inquired, DTP advised that Linsell Boulevard is council-managed, and any upgrades to these intersections are the responsibility of the managing authority.
Another local Hanna, who preferred not to share her last name due to private reasons, said that she reached out to the Council last year in regard to installing temporary traffic lights on Linsell Boulevard and when she followed up earlier this year, she was told that these lights are very expensive.
“For temporary traffic lights, they didn’t tell me any numbers,” she recalled.
“They’ve got a huge surplus every year. They’ve got plenty of money. It’s just about how they’re spending it.”
Hanna also said the planning in the area is “just insane”.
“Houses before roads, and it’s just exploded in the last year, so the road’s actually not big enough,” she said.
Hanna said the worst gridlock begins around 2.30pm at school pickup and continues into the evening, often affecting even simple errands.
“Sometimes, after work, after 5pm, I would want to just literally come down to shop (Woolworths Selandra Rise). It’s like you’re waiting and you’re waiting, and you’re waiting,” she said.
“Even to turn left is really quite hilarious because sometimes there would be five, six, seven cars waiting to turn right, and you actually can’t get through to turn left. You have to wait for the people to turn right so you can turn left.
“It’s like an adventure. It was really quite disappointing.”
To sign the petition, visit: change.org/p/urgent-need-for-traffic-lights-on-linsell-boulevard-in-cranbourne-east-victoria
Local Sukhbir Singh Pabla has started a petition to call for two sets of traffic lights along the 3-kilometre stretch of Linsell Boulevard between Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road and Salendra Rise to help “break the continuous flow of traffic, reduce idle times, and create a much safer environment for all road users” during the long peak hours. (Ljubica Vrankovic 517572)
The twilight event was hosted by the Southern Region Disability Alliance. (Supplied)
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Tree walk park awarded
Berwick Waters Tree Walk Park has won the Social Infrastructure / Community Infrastructure Award at the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Victoria Awards for Excellence.
Completed in April 2025, Tree Walk Park by Frasers Property Australia and Mondous Property is part of a national network of more than 45 Livvi’s Place inclusive playspaces across Australia, a list that includes the new Silo Park at Frasers Property’s Five Farms community nearby.
The parks are designed in partnership with the Touched by Olivia Foundation, a non-profit organisation whose mission is to improve the well-being of individuals and communities through inclusion and belonging.
Frasers Property Australia general manager Development Victoria Sarah Bloom said the UDIA award is a testament to the collaboration of all project partners.
“Helping our residents establish community connections with nature is vital to what we do. Tree Walk Park is a special, inclusive and beautiful space for everyone to meet, play and feel a true sense of belonging,” she said.
“This wonderful community amenity is the
result of collaboration between Frasers Property, our landscape architects Tract, the City of Casey, the Touched by Olivia Foundation, our local com-
munity and other stakeholders, and we thank everyone for their contribution to Tree Walk Park.”
Tree Walk Park is a part of the 50ha of open
Youth climate leaders drive change
By Jensy Callimootoo
The City of Casey is looking for young and climate passionate individuals aged between 15 and 25 to participate in their 2026 Casey Youth Climate Action Committee (YCAC).
Throughout the year, the committee provides opportunities for young people to get involved in meaningful conversations and initiatives around the region about protecting the environment and addressing climate change.
Misha Hassan is a VCE student in Casey and was part of the 2025 YCAC.
She says she joined the committee to “contribute meaningfully to positive environmental change”.
Misha first learnt about the committee when she attended a youth summit, since then, she familiarised herself with the committee’s vision and the various roles it adopts, which she says strongly resonated with her own principles for the environment.
Over the last year, Misha has been able to put those climate centred values into practice within the committee from being a spokesperson for the committee to conducting meetings with the Mayor.
“The last year has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” she said.
“I have learnt so much and had the opportunity to bond with other young people who share the same passion for caring for our environment.
“These connections have strengthened my commitment to protecting our natural habitats and inspired me to continue contributing to positive environmental change in and around Casey.”
The YCAC engages with two monthly meetings where, according to Misha, members are able to discuss “initiatives and plan for future events”.
Right now, for example, Misha and the committee are planning for a documentary screening
night about the harmful impacts of non-recyclable goods on animals and the environment.
But it also involves information sessions that encourage different groups of people to make better choices around being eco-friendly.
“We take time to reflect on feedback and gather learnings from past events,” said Misha.
“For example, at the ‘Inspire Leadership 2025’ event held earlier this year, we encouraged local Grade 6 students to make more sustainable lunchbox choices.
“The great response and positive feedback we received reinforced the value of our advocacy and education efforts, motivating us to continue developing impactful initiatives.”
But it doesn’t just stop at the younger generation, YCAC has also been able to ignite some change within local levels of governance.
Misha says that most recently, YCAC leaders met with Casey’s council members to “promote the sustainability and climate action work” that the committee undertakes.
“We were able to draw their attention to the urgency of addressing climate change and encouraged them to fund more sustainable initiatives in Casey,” she said.
“This growing movement benefits both the environment and the wider Casey community.
“And these discussions are not only about education, but also about fostering community spirit.”
One year in, Misha has accumulated a wealth of knowledge about sustainability and climate related issues — from recycling plastic lids to gravity shifts caused by melting glaciers.
“These insights reflect the breadth of knowledge I have gained from everyday sustainable practices to global environmental science,” Misha remarked.
“And they continue to inspire me to learn more and contribute meaningfully to our community.”
As Misha nears the completion of her first year, she says that there are lasting values that will continue to guide her climate advocacy.
“Every small action counts, and doing my part for a better tomorrow is one of the most valuable lessons I will take away from my experience as a member of the Youth Climate Action Committee,” she said.
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this inspiring group, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to a more sustainable future for Casey: one project, one initiative, and one
and
Berwick Waters, located in Clyde North, will eventually be home to approximately 2,500 households.
National award
The City of Casey has won a national award at the 2025 National Growth Areas Alliance (NGAA) Strategic Foresight and Innovation Awards.
The accolade was announced on Wednesday 26 November at Parliament House in Canberra and was in recognition of its Green Streets in Orana project.
WA’s City of Armadale was a joint winner for its Advocacy Priorities Strategy.
According to the council, the Green Streets inOranaprojectwasdesignedtoachievemore than 30 per cent canopy cover by planting trees.
The project has seen over 2700 trees planted at the Orana Estate.
Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen said the council was proud of this acknowledgement by the NGAA.
“We are proud to be recognised nationally for our Green Streets project,” said the Mayor.
“This goes beyond standard planning and design to deliver streets that are cooler, safer and more inviting for our residents.
“By working closely with our partners and the community, we’ve created a model that not only enhances liveability today, but sets us up for more sustainable development into the future.”
space planned for Berwick Waters, along with 9km of walking paths and bike trails. It complements Grand Prix Park in the College Green sector of Berwick Waters — with its kids racing track, mini trampolines, zipline and play tower — as an additional place for family fun
fresh air.
Berwick Waters Tree Walk Park.
Berwick Waters Tree Walk Park has won the Social Infrastructure / Community Infrastructure Award at the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Victoria Awards for Excellence. (Supplied)
Misha Hassan and her fellow YCAC members. (SUPPLIED)
Misha Hassan. (SUPPLIED)
City of Armadale Mayor Ruth Butterfield and City of Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen accepting the Strategic Foresight & Innovation Award. (Supplied)
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Stepping up on support
By Sahar Foladi
South East Community Links is empowering Greater Dandenong support services on responding to sexual violence disclosures.
The City of Greater Dandenong is ranked third in numbers of sexual violence victim reports in the state last year with 307 female reports while City of Casey topped the figures with 579 female reports, above the state average of 70 according to Crime Statistics Agency Victoria.
In a two-way partnership, South Eastern Centre Against Sexual Assault (SECASA) will train SECL staff and organisations for diverse communities on how to deal with victim survivor disclosure.
Meanwhile, SECL will provide SECASA and interested organisations with training and upskilling to work with multicultural communities.
More than 100 community members and organisations registered for an associated forum, ‘Supports after sexual violence: Responses from specialist, hospital, and police services in the South-East’ on Friday 28 November.
Held within the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the event hosted SECASA guest speakers, a forensic nurse from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, and detectives from Victoria Police’s Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (Dandenong).
Up to 20 organisations attended, including Family Safety Victoria, Monash Health, AMES, Orange Door, Victoria Police and Department of Education.
The event aimed to raise awareness around disclosures of sexual abuse and violence especially when working with and supporting women from multicultural and multi-faith backgrounds.
SECL’s head of housing and financial wellbeing, Rachna Bowman says this project also aims to drive the conversations on sexual abuse and allow for more victim survivors to share their stories.
“It’s a topic that is full of shame, stigma, and then you add the cultural overlays on top of that, it just becomes really difficult to talk about it.
“From my perspective, a lot of the agencies,
organisations or community service workers are working with multicultural communities.
“So, how do you best support multicultural communities when you put all the additional overlays on top of the trauma that they may have experienced?
“There’s nothing like community connection where you can speak to someone and share this has happened, what do I do?”
SECASA, is the largest sexual assault and family violence service providers in the South East with services like 24/7 sexual assault crisis response, therapeutic interventions and counselling after sexual assault/ family violence, community education and prevention works including in school settings and much more.
Acting manager partnerships and innovations, Vanessa Jones leads the prevention team saying disclosing a sexual assault is difficult for many, even after many years.
She says the project builds on momentum to influence bigger change.
“It’s not an easy task after experiencing sexual assault, to know what to do or where to get help. It’s not easy.
“Sometimes it takes years and years for someone to build the courage and strength to be able to disclose a sexual assault.
“Sometimes there are very many, many barriers towards either how a victim-survivor feels following a sexual assault, and many barriers to them disclosing as well.
“Effective primary prevention requires developing strong foundations to ensure that our efforts are successful or lead to long-term change,” she says.
“For us to be able to do that, it is really important to collaborate, to work with other community stakeholders. Because then we can strengthen our service and reach out to every section of the community or society.”
The partnership will also see SECL operate community focus groups and training sessions, prepare in-language resources for organisations like SECASA when working with multicultural communities through co-designed resources and to have more community events.
“Even within the community sector there’s not a lot of information and knowledge that’s available at this stage and this is what our project is trying to do,” Ms Bowman said.
“It’s also trying to connect with community members, community leaders and organisations so that we can start having this conversation.
“Also understanding, when you’re working with multicultural communities, especially refugees and migrants, there are barriers around language, the fear of police, coercion around visa abuse, financial abuse, economic abuse.
“All of those factors, when you put it into perspective, makes it harder for someone to go this is not OK. So it’s about creating pathways for someone to go seek help.”
Both SECL and SECASA list language and the lack of knowledge about support services available to the community as major barriers for multicultural communities in the South East.
Cannabis debate continues in Victoria’s Upper House
A South East MP has accused Labor of not listening to its members after a motion to legalise cannabis possession was voted down in Victoria’s Upper House last month.
The motion put forth by Legalise Cannabis’ David Ettershank, MP for Western Metro, aimed to decriminalise the possession of cannabis — but it was quickly defeated by the other MPs.
South Eastern Metropolitan MP, Rachel Payne championed her colleagues’ statements.
Payne told Star News that the motion highlighted Labor’s policies and the disconnect between the government’s response and the decriminalisation bill.
This was after Labor members voted towards legalising cannabis as well as it being taxed, owned and regulated by the state government at the 2025 Labor Party State conference.
ALP members had also voted for decriminalisation of all forms of cannabis possession and
use.
During the speech, Ettershank urged the government to legalise and regulate the substance as it would reduce harm and generate revenue for a number of social programs.
This included utilising the funds from the legal market for mental health, disability, alcohol and other drugs services.
According to the MP, the new market would also reduce criminalisation of marginalised communities such as First Nations people and migrants.
Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has stated First Nations people in Australia are more likely to be affected by cannabis related arrests than non-indigenous people.
Eastern Victoria Liberal MP Renee Heath has since slammed the motion, rejecting the claims that cannabis legislation would dismantle the black market or boost state revenue.
“We need to invest in mental health, education, treatment and rehabilitation, not commercialise a drug linked to cancer, psychosis and crime,” she said in a media statement.
“Real reform protects Victorians, especially
the vulnerable, from harm.”
In response, Payne told Star News that she was surprised by Heath’s comments.
Payne said there’s been similar models put in place in Canada and closer to home, like the ACT that have been successful in taking pressure off emergency services like police.
Where current legislation of recreational cannabis has been decriminalised and which in turn, has limited cannabis-related arrests, reduced stigma and has reduced people buying from the black market.
“There is already a cannabis market, an illicit market run by organised crime,” said Payne.
“By legalising cannabis, you reduce risk of contact with criminals and have control over what is in products and promote safety.
“Maintaining the status quo does nothing to reduce harm and continues to line the pockets of organised crime.”
Speakers at the SECL forum, aimed to empower organisations in response to victim survivor disclosure from multicultural community across south east region.(Supplied)
(L-R) Guest speakers at the forum were Victoria Police’s Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCIT), SECL Family Violence Prevention and Capacity Building practitioner Emily, a nurse from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine FVIM and SECL’s head of housing and financial wellbeing Rachna Bowman, Vanessa and Katherine from SECASA and Laura from Family Safety Victoria.(Supplied)
A South East Community Links forum on sexual assault disclosures was attended by more than 100 community organisations and members.
(Supplied)
David Ettershank and Rachel Payne from Legalise Cannabis Victoria. (Picture: AAP Image/Luis Ascui)
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Acting out against racism
By Sahar Foladi
Wellsprings for Women staged a unique performance, ‘Unscripted Voices Against Racism,’ by Melbourne Playback Theatre group.
Almost 150 people attended the event on Thursday 20 November at the Castle, to not just watch the performance play out in real time but also share their stories, experiences, express their emotions in a safe and supported environment.
Almost everyone in the audience were left teary, emotionally moved, empowered and connected - mixed with a few laughs during the performances.
Wellsprings for Women, as part of the South East Anti-Racism Network, has tackled topics such as racism and Islamophobia.
CEO, Dalal Smiley says this time around they sought to do something different to a seminar.
“I thought this would be something that engages the audience. With these kinds of topics, it’s more powerful to see them being performed than just hearing the stories.
“It’s kind of an eye opener, raising awareness on the situations and also it gives tips and strategies that people can utilise in everyday life to make a difference.
“Usually, the stories we’ve heard is about Dandenong residents experiencing racism outside of Dandenong as a setting, which is a telling thing in itself.”
The performance was divided in two parts. First was a form of playback theatre where the facilitator engages with the audience by asking some questions. Then based off the shared stories, a group of five performers presented them on stage.
The second half was a forum theatre where members from the audience share their experience of racism and see the entire story play out in front of the audience.
Ahlam, a Palestinian who fled Israel with her husband and two children a decade ago, was chosen from the audience for the forum theatre.
As she saw her story play out in front of everyone, she was moved to tears.
“We could see things were getting really bad - and we didn’t know how bad and I couldn’t raise our family - so we started packing our bags.
“We miss our family and the support but I see our future here not there.
“They live their life, go to work, study but they live in fear. They can’t speak up or say anything against the country.”
Her family arrived through skilled visa migration but unfortunately for Ahlam and her husband, their entire family still reside inside Israel itself, not in the West Bank or Gaza where majority of Palestinians are located.
She says Palestinians face heightened racism in Israel, being not allowed to speak their own language and facing slogans like, “Death to Ar-
abs”.
So, it was complete shock to her in Australia where she was praised for speaking Arabic to her children i- a stark contrast between two worlds.
“When I spoke my own language with my kids or colleagues, people would stare at us and say that’s very rude (in Israel).
“I took my kids to a shopping centre here talking in Arabic, and a lady said, it’s so beautiful you speak in your language with your kids
“That made all the difference for me. At that moment I realised I did the right thing.”
Phoebe Mason, has been with Melbourne Playback for nine years and was the artistic director of the company who performed last week.
The unique form of theatre requires immense rehearsals, immersive techniques to perform in sync with the group looking out for tiny details like metaphors, tone of the voice, deep listening, even listening for potentially unsaid things based off unfinished sentences as well as body language.
“We feel very thrilled that the organisation has trusted us with the community and this topic because it’s such a painful and present topic.
“It’s a real leap of faith to open up that space, while trusted it will be held appropriately and safely with positive outcomes.
“Because of the nature of our work, we never know what stories are shared by people so we
are always ready for bigger social issues brought into the room,” Ms Masons says.
“We are focused on honouring a person’s experience. We find that’s very empowering and enjoyable, by the end people are more connected to each other, there’s humour and they laugh.
“It opens the space for people in a suspended moment to spend time with these events. It creates a community space to collectively go, OK what is happening in these moments and what can we change?”
Greater Dandenong mayor, Sophie Tan also attended the event and took part in answering questions by the facilitator.
Cr Tan, being the first female Cambodian-Australian mayor in the country, touched on the importance of belonging and feeling safe especially as a new arrival to the country.
“I just want people to know that we are the most multicultural city, so there’s no racism here.
“As a council, we do promote a lot of anti-racism, we do have a lot of our signs, especially in activity centres and reserves.
“We want people to at least speak up about this issue, which is very important.”
Melbourne Playback have previously worked with different organisations, corporates and even retirement village on topics like mental health, staff satisfaction, gender violence and bystander topics.
Ms Smiley urges increased funding targeted towards prevention rather than merely “splashing money” responding to racism. She also touched on the “insidious wave of hate” online, referring to Wester Australia’s Senator Fatima Payman’s social media accounts flooded with racist comments targeting not just her but those associated with her.
Ms Payman has recently shared the constant racist emails and calls her office has been receiving, urging the government to provide more support and publicly condemn the abuse.
Freeway blitz
Police caught 37 drink and drug drivers during a major road policing operation on the Monash Freeway on Friday and Saturday night (28 and 29 November).
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As part of Operation Colossus, police conducted high volume alcohol and drug testing at Dandenong North, targeting impaired drivers. Out of 1899 preliminary breath tests, there were 24 drivers caught exceeding the alcohol limit, police say.
The highest alleged reading was .174 and most offending drivers were between .05 and .10.
Police also detected 13 criminal offences including car theft, number-plate theft, drug possession, counterfeit money possession, failing to stop on police direction and dangerous driving while pursued. Three people were arrested in three separate incidents:
• Police intercepted a 36-year-old man after he allegedly failed to stop on police direction in a stolen vehicle. He was arrested in Keysborough and was remanded.
• Officers deployed stop sticks in Dandenong to intercept another stolen vehicle that allegedly failed to stop on police direction. The 30-yearold female driver was arrested and remanded.
• A 26-year-old man allegedly tested positive to drug driving and enquiries revealed the number plates were home-made and the vehicle was stolen.
Mayor Sophie Tan shared her meaning of belonging in the country as a Cambodian-Australian.(Sahar Foladi: 519532_05)
The event was well attended with 150 people. (Sahar Foladi: 519532_02)
Melbourne Playback Theatre performers. (Sahar Foladi: 519532_06)
The performance consisted of a facilitator who drove conversations while the team of artists performed the stories.(Sahar Foladi: 519532_09)
Ready for record event
Volunteers at Find A Penny Foundation are bracing for what could be their busiest Christmas on record.
On a normal Tuesday, the charity’s base, a community room at the Hampton Park Junior Football Club, was buzzing with constant movement. Volunteers squeezed past each other carrying crates of vegetables, sorting nappies into piles, and opening boxes of donated goods. Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen dropped by to help out. Director Beata “BB” Stednik was about to head out for a two-hour round trip to Heidelberg to collect a donation of pantries and frozen meat.
That urgency, the constant movement, the sense that every hour counts, captured the pressure Find A Penny was under as it prepares for its biggest event of the year: the free Community
Christmas BBQ, to be held on Sunday 21 December at the Cairns Road community room.
This year’s event is expected to surpass last year’s crowd of 4,000.
“It’ll be a little bit bigger and a little bit better,” BB said.
“We’ve got support from the council, more rice for the kids, and we expect a lot more people needing food relief.”
BB said they wanted to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, despite their financial status.
“Food is such a huge stress for people, and especially when Christmas comes, it’s even more pressure to put food on the table.
“Our aim is to provide food for those in need.”
Find A Penny’s beginnings were humble: 18 years ago, at Queen Victoria Market, serving hot homemade soup to homeless people.
That grew into lasagna, rice and chicken
dishes, then into a full buffet.
“And then Covid hit, so we had nowhere to go. It’s a long story because we were under a different umbrella, and we separated from that group, and we decided to go on our own under Find A Penny as an independent charity,” BB recalled.
“At home, we served 350 families each week. People came and collected the parcels.
“We got permits through the government and through our local council. We were able to drive, pick up food…”
Later, the charity moved onto its current base: Hampton Park Junior Football Club.
Today, the charity’s footprint is vast. They serve about 150 homeless people every Friday night in the city, support those sleeping rough at Dandenong Station, and supply food to people in transitional accommodation at a local caravan park.
On Thursdays alone, around 1,300 people
receive food support, often emptying pantry shelves within hours.
Inside the Hampton Park community room, pantry coordinator Karem sorted the shelves with practised efficiency.
She checked halal labels, learned Dari and Farsi phrases to communicate with new Afghan families, and kept the space tidy to help reduce the overwhelm many might feel on their first visit.
“I like to make people comfortable when they come here,” she said.
“You know, you go shopping, you’ll feel the same. If things are everywhere in a mess, sometimes when the people first come in, it’s too overwhelming for them.”
Karem has been enjoying her work here, and she said the volunteers are really nice.
“Everyone doing just a little bit helps us serve the many people who are coming,” she said.
Volunteers from The Bridge (Pakenham) were sorting nappies into piles. (Stewart Chambers: 521030)
Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen dropped by to help out. He was with volunteers Karem, Bryan, BB, Camille, Doina and Carla.
Bryan was busy in the pantry room.
Pantry coordinator Karem was always trying to keep the pantry space tidy to help reduce the overwhelm many might feel on their first visit.
By Violet Li
Christmas Cheer
Make your own charcuterie-tree
Everyone loves a charcuterie board and Christmas entertaining is the perfect time to make one up.
A simple yet effective way to add a bit more spirit to your charcuterie during Christmas is to make a charcuterie tree, or as I have nicknamed it charcute-tree!
Making a charcuterie-tree is not too different from making a regular charcuterie, you just need a little bit more time, and a few extra props.
Once you have got the idea down, this method could also be used to make a festive fruit platter, a vegetable tree, or even a lolly tree.
WHAT YOU NEED
-Styrofoam cone
-Toothpicks
-Alfoil or plastic wrap
-Cookie cutters
-Paring knife
-Cutting board
-Serving board
INGREDIENTS
Use whatever cheeses, meats and fruits you would normally choose for a charcuterie board, here’s what I chose:
-Cheddar
-Edam
-Brie
-Mild salami
-Kabana
-Strawberries
-Dried apricots
-Rosemary
-Crackers
-Cashews
-Quince paste
METHOD
1. Cover the styrofoam cone in alfoil or plastic wrap. I chose to use alfoil as it can be recycled when it is scrunched into a fist sized ball.
2. Cut up and prepare your ingredients. For the cheeses I cut them all differently so people could easily differentiate them. A fun way I added a bit of a Christmas vibe was to use a star cookie cutter for the cheddar, which I used on the tree and as a star. For the fruit I left the dried apricots whole because I thought they kind of looked like baubles and for the strawberries I cut them into starbursts. This is quite easy and an effective way
Get Merry and Bright
to cut all kinds of round fruit. With a paring knife cut the top of the strawberry then turn it on its side and cut in a zig-zag pattern, sticking the knife about halfway through the fruit, once you have gone around the whole strawberry pull it apart and see the starburst. For the salami I folded each slice in half three times so they looked like little roses and with the kabana I chopped them into thick slices so they looked kind of like baubles.
3. Using the toothpicks, decorate your styrofoam cone with the cheese, meat and fruit so it looks like a Christmas tree. All you have to do is stab the piece of food with a toothpick then
Christmas Lights Contest
From front yards to shopfronts, let’s make Casey shine bright. Show off your sparkle to win a $500 gift card* Entries close 15 December. *T&Cs apply.
push that into the cone, leaving part of the toothpick out so people can easily serve themselves. I placed a cheddar star at the top and then started building the tree up randomly. You could do it in a more organised way, but I enjoyed a mismatched look.
4. Add the finishing touches and serve your charcute-tree. I used a sprig of rosemary for a bit of greenery to make it more tree-like and served it on a wooden board with crackers, cashews and quince paste. You could add fairy lights, other dips or even add more cheese, meat and fruit around the bottom to increase the serving size.
Time for festive reflections
While the prawns sizzle and the pav sets, let’s take a moment to think about the year ahead… Christmas in Australia has its own rhythm, long lunches, cold drinks, backyard cricket and the mouthwatering smell of Christmas lunch roasting away in the oven or sizzling on the BBQ. It’s a day of sunshine (hopefully), family and conversation woven through rooms, on verandahs and in the backyard. Somewhere between unwrapping gifts and plating up dessert, we notice how much of our lives unfold within our walls.
For some, the day highlights what their home does perfectly, space for everyone to sit, laugh and linger. For others, it gently hints at what feels a little tight: cousins camping out in the lounge, the kitchen bench working overtime, the desire for more room to entertain or simply breathe. These thoughts tend to surface during this slower time of year, when work pauses and life settles into a relaxed summer holiday pace.
December doesn’t demand decisions, but it does invite reflection. Even if moving is only a possibility, there’s value in paying attention to what you want more of in your space. Small, practical steps taken over the Christmas break, decluttering cupboards, refreshing the garden or taking note of simple improvements can make future choices feel lighter, whether you’re planning for next month, next year, or much later.
Many families begin browsing property listings casually between Christmas and New Year, not with urgency, but with curiosity. Sometimes that quiet search leads to change. Sometimes it simply confirms that their home still fits. Either way, progress isn’t always about action, sometimes it’s just about clarity.
So, while the prawns sizzle, laughter echoes
through the house and the pavlova rests in the fridge, take a moment to think about what your next chapter could look like. Whether you stay, plan or dream a little longer, we hope this season
brings ease, reflection and the kind of memories that make every home feel full.
If you’re interested in exploring your New Year options, our friendly team are here to help.
While the prawns sizzle and the pav sets, let’s take a moment to think about the year ahead.
Les celebrates big 90th
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A sprightly Les Abrehart has celebrated his 90th birthday with 100 family and friends on Sunday 16 November.
“They seem to come out of the woodwork when free food is available,” he jokes.
By his side were his three children Linda, Gary and Karen – with seven grandkids and seven great-grand kids – at the celebration at Hillview Bunyip Aged Care.
The former greenskeeper at Keysborough and Cranbourne golf courses remains an active and independent Mr Fix It. He’s still driving and has close to 20:20 vision.
He’s an active part of Garfield-Bunyip Probus, tinkers on a family farm in Bunyip and mends bikes from hard rubbish and donates them for op shops.
“I’ve been a scrounger all my life. I hate seeing those bikes go to waste.”
The Abrehart family has been part of the South East for about 140 years, he says.
The surname is scribed on signs across the region - Abrehart Street in Doveton, named after Les’s father, and Abrehart Road in Pakenham where his relatives farmed for about 120 years.
He recalls him and his now-late wife Heather once visiting the 200-acre homestead, which was home to his Nanna, great-aunts and great-uncles.
They were greeted by Nanna on the porch, with a shotgun under her arm, enquiring what they were doing there. All was later sorted out over a cup of tea, Les says.
Three decades ago, the homestead sold for about $490,000. The undeveloped tract was probably worth about $40 million now, Les says.
Most of his formative years were in what is now Doveton’s Abrehart Street.
His father Carl and mother Edith had moved down from Nar Nar Goon – where there lived off a road “not much more than a two-wheel track through the trees”.
The hope was that Les and his nine siblings could get an education at Hallam. They moved into a four-acre place in Doveton, just before the farmlands were carved into sub-divisions.
Les used to set rabbit traps in the paddocks later claimed by big industries such as General Motors Holden and Heinz. There was no such thing as a freeway in those days, he says.
While his brothers and sisters knuckled down at high school, Les left after grade 6 and got to work.
At 14, he landed a job at Keysborough Golf Club, which at the time was just being built on the site of a cattle farm off Hutton and Chapel roads.
Les and his father were hired to pull out the old barbed-wire fences, with his father exploding gelignite to remove trees and stumps.
“You’d be locked up for that these days,” Les mused.
When he turned 18, he was being paid junior wages while doing more work than some of the men. He thought he deserved more, and so accepted a job on the fairways and greens at Cranbourne Golf Club.
Les and wife Heather settled briefly in Yallourn, where Les became superintendent of the golf club,
Oakgrove Community Centre joins celebration
Oakgrove Community Centre in Narre Warren hosted a colourful kaleidoscope event over the weekend.
The event aimed to celebrate culture, creativity and community spirit, offering visitors with multicultural stalls; each represented the rich diversity within the community.
According to Anu Ravindernath, project coordinator for the centre, the event facilitated an array of activities and proved to be a “wonderful success”.
“Guests enjoyed browsing handmade crafts, sampling delicious cultural dishes, and discovering unique traditions from around the world,” Anu said.
“It was a warm and lively reminder of the beauty of cultural exchange.
“The atmosphere was further energised by a series of engaging performances, with tal-
ented artists bringing the stage to life through music, dance, and cultural showcases that captivated audiences throughout the day.”
The event also included a range of activities for those of different ages and abilities.
“Families were spoiled for choice with an impressive range of children’s activities,” Anu said.
“Young ones bounced with joy on the jumping castle, experienced the thrill of pony rides, and took on the adventurous scavenger hunt.
“The crowd favourite, reptile show, drew both kids and adults eager to learn more about fascinating creatures up close.
“And with even more surprises sprinkled across the venue, there was never a dull moment.”
before they built a new home back in Doveton.
He returned to work at Keysborough Golf Club for 25 years – until he had a “run-in” with a club member one day.
“He said ‘I’ll get you Les’. Then he got on the committee and I got sacked on the spot.
“But it had a bit of karma in it. He ended up getting done for embezzlement.”
Meanwhile, Les joined his son Gary in driving Browns Grain dairy trucks across Gippsland. It took some convincing for Les to get a truck licence, after being unable to reverse the truck around a corner.
Evidently the instructor was happy that Les would mainly be reversing around farms.
Now 65, Gary runs Abrehart Transport based in Livestock Way, Pakenham near the former livestock exchange.
And Les drove trucks for about 20 years, earning a well-deserved gold watch on his formal retirement.
BUSINESS PROFILE
New $13m clubhouse opens
Stockland Halcyon Jardin has opened its new $13m clubhouse, marking a $1.74b investment in Melbourne’s south east.
Stockland officially opened its new $13 million clubhouse at the Halcyon Jardin land lease community in Clyde North on Saturday, 29 November, with a community open day to celebrate.
Located in the heart of St Germain Central, the Clubhouse is the first of its kind in Melbourne’s south-east and sets a new benchmark for over55s living. Residents can enjoy resort-style amenities including an indoor pool, outdoor spa, sauna, gym, pickleball courts, bowling green, dining room, bar, games room, library, and cinema.
This milestone brings Stockland’s total investment in the south-east region to approximately $1.74 billion across three land lease communities and four masterplanned communities – reinforcing its long-term commitment to supporting population growth and the need for housing.
Helen Gregory and her husband Rob are among the first homeowners at Halcyon Jardin. Their decision to downsize after becoming empty nesters sparked a family trend – Helen’s brother Colin purchased a home in Jardin just a few doors away, and their older brother Neville and his wife Sue will join the community in 2026.
“We had this big house, but it was just too much for us,” Helen said.
A conversation with her cousin, who lives in Stockland’s Halcyon Evergreen community, led Helen and Colin to visit Halcyon Jardin. What began as curiosity quickly became a family move.
“Safety and lifestyle were the two biggest factors in choosing Halcyon Jardin. I wanted to feel safe, make more friends, and have activities to look forward to.”
Stockland Halcyon Victoria General Manager, James Westh said there was growing demand for vibrant, resort-style living among over-55s in the region.
“We know there is increasing demand in Melbourne’s south-east for spaces where people can connect and stay active – the new clubhouse at Halcyon Jardin provides that space for homeown-
ers in the community,” Mr Westh said.
“Halcyon Jardin celebrates the best of the region and is one of our most connected communities, close to shopping, sporting and recreational amenities.”
Since launching, the community has seen strong interest, with majority of available sites sold and around 100 homeowners already settled from Clyde North, Beaconsfield, Pakenham and Lyndhurst. Once complete, the community will comprise 278 homes.
Leading lifestyle medicine expert and author of Live More Happy, Dr Darren Morton, who also serves as Stockland Halcyon’s Wellbeing Advisor, said this trend reflects a growing desire among older Victorians to live in communities that support health and happiness.
“The research is clear: to achieve wellbeing, we need to be active, do things we enjoy, and feel a sense of purpose. Most importantly, we need to be connected with others. Communities that foster connection are fundamental to wellbeing,” Dr Morton said.
Homeowners in Stockland’s over-55s communities report wellbeing scores 11.6 percentage points higher than the national average (84.7% vs 73.1%), driven by satisfaction with standard of living (87%), personal relationships (86%), and safety (83%)¹.
The City of Casey - one of Victoria’s fastest-growing municipalities – is expected to see its 55+ population grow by 50,000 to 126,000 by 2041², highlighting the need for communities like Halcyon Jardin.
Les Abrehart, second left, with his children Karen, Gary and Linda at his 90th birthday party. (Supplied)
Les Abrehart, second left, with his children Gary, Karen and Linda at his 90th birthday party. (Supplied)
The 90th birthday cake. (Supplied)
Les Abrehart. (Supplied)
Staff and volunteers, Anu Ravindernath, Rod Bryson, Mary Amalraj, David Haynes, Sandra Tomkins, Sudha Nanthakumaran, Manasi Dhamankar, Thameshi Vijayamanne, Saradha Valliappan , Ankita Koranne, Girija Nedumaran. (SUPPLED)
Helen Gregory and her husband Rob were among the first homeowners at Halcyon Jardin.
WHAT’S ON
Melbourne Pasifika Festival
Annual celebration of Pacific Island dance, live music, arts, crafts, children’s activities, storytelling, and Pasifika-owned food and merchandise stalls.
• Saturday 6 December 10am-7pm at Banjo Paterson Park, Lynbrook; free event. Details: melbournepasifikafestival.org
Casey Carers Cuppa
Meet other carers and talk to our carer peer support team who all have lived experience. Ask us about what services and supports are available. Presented by Different Journeys, specialists in the neurodivergent space.
• Friday 5 December 10am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick; free event. No bookings necessary. Details: 0490 774 068
Santa photos
Santa and his cheerful elf are stopping by the park. Bring your camera to snap your own special photos.
• Saturday, 6 December and Thursday, 11 December 9.30am-11am and 12pm-1pm at Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; free event.
Santa’s Salsa Night
Join Deon Boavida from the Salsa Society for a free, high-energy Salsa session that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned dancers alike. No partner or experience required.
• Saturday 6 December 6pm-9pm at Wilson Botanic Park amphiteatre, Berwick; free event. Bookings essential: events.humanitix.com/santa-s-salsa-night
Christmas in the Park
Face painting, kids craft activities, water play, entertainment, Santa. BYO picnic and rugs. Humble Merchant Cafe will be open for food and refreshments.
• Sunday 7 December 11.30am-2pm at Banjo Park, Grazing Way, Clyde North; free event.
Lawn Games
Free family fun with giant-sized lawn games including Guess Who, Jenga, Connect 4 and Checkers.
• Sunday, 7 December and Wednesday, 10 December 10am–2pm at Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; free event.
Paint and Pop
Christmas creative painting activity, followed by a juice box and snack to go. Art materials provided. Suitable for primary-school ages. Bring your own smock or apron. Parent/guardian supervision required.
• Monday 8 December and Friday 12 December, 9am or 10.30am (60 min sessions) at Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick; $10pp. Bookings essential: events.humanitix.com/paint-and-popsmall-canvas-67ktevbl
Christmas High Tea
Bringing women together to reflect, connect, and end the year with encouragement and joy. Part of the E-Girl Empowerment initiative.
• Saturday, 13 December 2pm-6pm (formalities at 3pm) at Little Croft Family & Community Centre, 151 The Strand, Narre Warren South; $25pp (includes High Tea, refreshments and activities). Bookings: gerttashivachi.wixsite.com/e-girl-empowerment-i
Christmas on the Foreshore
Carols event. Bring a picnic blanket and some camp chairs. Food trucks, entertainment, and fireworks.
• Friday 12 December 6pm-10pm at Tooradin foreshore; entry by gold coin donation.
Community Neighbourhood BBQ
Fundraising sausage sizzle provided by Cranbourne Scouts and Venturers. Evening for the whole family, with games for the kids.
• Friday 12 December 5.30pm-8pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Blvd, Cranbourne West; free entry. Bookings essential: trybooking.com/events/landing/1410092?
Clyde Christmas Carols
Singer, Songwriter and Pastor, Kerrigan La-Brooy, is back again hosting Gethsemane’s Clyde Christmas Carols. Festive cheer, carnival atmosphere, prizes galore, gifts and giveaways. Live performances, food vendors, craft stalls, Santa Claus, childrens rides and amusements, raffle, Christmas Miracle with gifts for every registered child.
• Saturday 13 December 4.30pm-8.30pm at Hillcrest Christian College oval, 500 Soldiers Road, Clyde North; free event. Details: 0404 875 647 or kerriganlabrooy@bigpond.com
Endeavour Hills Community Carols
Free event for the whole family. Local schools and music groups including gospel music group, Urban Praise. Food trucks, carnival games, children activities and fireworks.
• Saturday 13 December 5.30pm-9.30pm at Reveal Church, 2-8 Gleneagles Drive, Endeavour Hills; free event.
Music in the Park
Local choirs fill the park with festive cheer. BYO picnic and drinks, a small selection of food for purchase.
• Saturday 13 December 6pm-9pm at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick; $5 donation pp (children under 2 free)
Narre Warren North Carols
Family-friendly traditional carols. Relaxed picnic atmosphere without vendors or fireworks. Free sausage sizzle, tea and coffee. No dogs or other pets, except service animals.
• Saturday 13 December 6.30pm-10.30pm at A’Beckett Road Reserve, Narre Warren North; $10 family of four or $5pp.
Melbourne Stars family day
Meet your favourite Melbourne Stars players, take photos and collect autographs. Activities for all ages - sporting challenges, interactive workshops, games as well as roving entertainment, live music and food trucks.
• Sunday 14 December 10am–2pm at Casey Fields Oval 5, 160 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne; free event.
Casey City Church Carols
Live performances, community carols, visit from Santa, food trucks, rides and fireworks finale. Bring a chair and pack a picnic.
• Friday, 19 December from 6.30pm at Cairns Road Reserve, Campbell Drive, Hampton Park; free event.
Christmas Carols by Twilight 50th anniversary with rides, food trucks, a visit from Santa and a fireworks display at 9:15 pm.
• Wednesday 24 December 7pm-9.20pm at Max Pawsey Reserve, Narre Warren; free event. Lakeside Paddle Boats
Paddle Boats and Aqua Bikes daily. Ages 3-12 must ride with an adult (16-plus).
• Daily until 31 January 10am-4pm; $30 for 15
minutes, $50 for 30 minutes (per paddleboat 1-2 capacity) at Wilson Botanic Park lake, Berwick. Bookings recommended: trybooking.com/ DHFGU
Elf Scavenger Hunt
Get clues to track down elves in their secret spots, and claim a sweet reward - a lollypop. For all ages.
• daily until 13 December, 10am-3pm at Wilson Botanic Park visitor centre, Berwick; free event. U3A Cranbourne
Non-profit group for over-50s with lots of craft, activities and social groups such as garden club, line danding, ukelele and guitar group and singing. New members are always welcome.
• 20-22 Bowen Street, Cranbourne. Details: u3acranbourne.org.au or 0493 991 919. Indoor Social Pickleball
Casual,indoorsocialpickleballsessions.Allequipment provided during this coach-free session.
• Mondays 5.30pm-6.30pm and Wednesdays 10am-11am 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). Try booking in for Olive Road (Monday and Wednesday sessions).
Scrabble in Berwick
Fridays 9.30am-12.00pm at Berwick Neighbourhood Centre, 112 High Street, Berwick. Details: David, 0433 566 456.
U3A Casey – Activities for Seniors
With over 580 members and 75 different classes,
U3A Casey offers you a wide range of activities including Arts & Crafts, Music, Book Clubs, Social Clubs, Low-Impact Sports, Fitness, Cooking … and many more.
You can attend up to three classes for free to see if you like the classes before registering to join U3A Casey.
Membership from January to December is $60, or from July to December is $30, which allows you to choose to join any of our classes (subject to available vacancies).
• Details: u3acasey.org.au, 0493 280 458 or caseyu3a@gmail.com
Massive clash put on hold
By Blair Burns
Rain caused issues for the top level of the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) on the weekend with all turf matches washed out.
The weekend was supposed to be the first day of the scheduled two-day games in round six, but due to the rain, the matches have now been changed to one-day games.
In an interesting fixture quirk, teams will play the same opponent across the next two rounds in separate one-day matches, one at home and one away.
Thankfully there was some DDCA action on Sunday as the association hosted the first three rounds of its T20 competition, but only some matches were played due to the wet conditions.
Just eight of the 24 teams played both of their two matches, while Parkfield and Hallam Kalora Park were the only two teams that didn’t get to play at all on the day.
Buckley Ridges was the only team to win both of its matches, sitting on top of the ladder after the three rounds.
The Bucks did it easy, bowling Hampton Park outforjust71intheirfirstmatchasHarrySnowden (4/8) and Triyan De Silva (3/10) dominated – they then chased down the target in just 12 overs.
In round three, Buckley Ridges bowled Silverton out for 112, before Ben Wright (47 not out) and Mahela Udawatte (31 not out) chased the runs with 10 balls to spare.
The performance of the day belonged to Dandenong cricketer and former Narre South junior Shobit Singh, who belted 104 off 57 balls for the Lions as they smashed Conway Crane Doves.
The rainy weekend also meant that the top of the table Turf 1 clash between Berwick and Buckley Ridges was forced to wait for another week.
A lot is at stake for the Bears and Bucks, and while they are both yet to lose a game this season, losing two on the trot would hurt as the season nears the halfway mark.
The game promises to be an exciting clash as the two best teams get prepared to battle it out at Dandenong Park Oval, before a rematch next weekend at Arch Brown Reserve.
There are two batters for each side who have shouldered much of the run-scoring load so far this season, but which duo will deliver in the battle of the best?
Buckley Ridges pair Dale Tormey (213 runs at 53.25) and Ben Wright (212 runs at 70.67) are key players in the top order and have continually punished opposition bowling attacks.
The pair sit fifth and sixth in the competition for total runs scored, with just two others Bucks players in the top 35 – who are Ayush Patel (127 runs at 42.33 – 18th) and Triyan De Silva (96 runs at 48 – 25th).
On paper, these are the two guys that could change the game for Buckley Ridges - and getting them out cheaply will go a long way towards the Bears’ winning chances.
There is no doubt that the reigning premiers bat deep, but the middle to lower order hasn’t fired much this season … well it hasn’t really needed to.
Berwick also has a strong batting duo in Jake Hancock (232 runs at 77.3) and skipper Michael Wallace (187 runs at 46.75).
The Bears duo is among the most prolific runscorers in the competition and after they combined for a 181-run partnership last round, confidence is high.
Opening pair Jarryd Wills (145 runs at 36.25) and Lachlan Brown (138 runs at 34.5) have also got the side off to strong starts in many of the games so far.
The two Bucks tasked with removing Berwick’s strong top order will be fast bowling pair Triyan De Silva (14 wickets at 11) and Harry Snowden (12 wickets at 11.58).
Left arm fast is what De Silva serves up and if he bowls anything like last round where he took 4/19 and 4/38 against Hallam Kalora Park, the Bears will be in trouble.
Snowden is an English import and has played a similar role to that of Prav Chahal last season, with good pace and bounce and a bit of mongrel.
The duo showed how destructive it can be, even in the shorter format, taking a combined 7/18 off six overs as they bowled Hampton Park out for 71 in a T20 match on Sunday.
For Berwick, another Wills, this time of the Toby variety, has led the way with the ball to claim 14 wickets at an incredible average of 9.43.
Despite already being one of the hot flag favourites, the next month is an opportunity for the Bucks to really make a statement against some of the better sides.
They have back-to-back matches against Berwick (second), before encounters with Springvale South (third) and Beaconsfield (fourth).
In other upcoming games, Springvale South should bank consecutive wins against Parkmore Pirates both home and away in the next two matches.
The Bloods come into this weekend’s clash with short odds after a 4-1 start to the season, while the Pirates are the only team who remain winless at 0-4.
Springvale South is set to contend again and wants redemption on last year’s preliminary final exit (denied a chance due to rain), while the Pirates need to produce a miracle if they are to win.
We’ve said it before and we will say it again, but Hallam Kalora Park simply must lift and defeat Dandenong West this weekend.
If William Whyte and Jawid Khan can’t manage to take early wickets, the Bulls will see red and charge home to a big total.
The Hawks need to find their wings if they are to get their season back on track after a disappointing 1-4 start for last year’s runner-up.
Riley Siwes and his Dandenong West teammates have managed to post some big totals this season, but it’s only translated to one win – so, this is a crucial game in the context of the season for both sides.
Elsewhere, Beaconsfield will be looking to cement its spot inside the top four with a win over Narre South on the Tigers’ home deck at Perc Allison Oval.
The Lions are roaring after their first win of the season, an outright victory over Parkmore, and if there was ever a time to continue that momentum, here it is.
You don’t want to park your car on the fence if Oshadha Oriyadasa is batting after belting 114 off 70 balls last round (including 13 fours and seven sixes).
But on the other side, Beaconsfield is coming off a strong score of 282 with the bat and will look towards Jack Steel and Jake Cronin to go big once again.
TURF 1
· Fixture: Dandenong West v Hallam Kalora Park at Greaves Reserve, Parkmore Pirates v Springvale South at Frederick Wachter Reserve, Bea-
consfield v Narre South at Perc Allison Oval, Buckley Ridges v Berwick at Dandenong Park Oval.
· Ladder: Buckley Ridges, Berwick 31, Springvale South 24, Beaconsfield 15, Narre South 13, Hallam Kalora Park 9, Dandenong West 6, Parkmore Pirates 3.
· Most Runs: Jake Hancock (Berwick) 232, Mitch Forsyth (Springvale South) 231, Ashan Walgamage (Beaconsfield) 219, Dinesh Kulasekara (Dandenong West) 214, Dale Tormey (Buckley Ridges) 213.
· Most Wickets: Toby Wills (Berwick), Triyan De Silva (Buckley Ridges), Jarryd Straker (Springvale South) 14, Jeevan Mendis (Narre South) 13, Harry Snowden (Buckley Ridges) 12.
TURF 2
· Ladder: Parkfield 29, Coomoora, Narre Warren 21, HSD 17, Silverton, North Dandenong, Cranbourne, Lyndale 9.
· Most Runs: Jarrod Munday (Coomoora) 245, Himesh Don Galhenage (Lyndale) 190, Dishan Malalasekera (Parkfield), Robert North (Silverton) 189, Krishan Alang (Coomoora) 181.
· Most Wickets: Madusha Croos (Parkfield) 18, Sakuntha Liyanage (HSD) 17, Malan Madusanka (Coomoora) 13, Krishan Alang (Coomoora), Ted Kahandawala (Narre Warren), Raja Ahmed (Cranbourne), Zarak Aseel (North Dandenong) 11.
· Fixture: Narre Warren v Coomoora at Sweeney Reserve #1, Silverton v Lyndale at Springvale Reserve, Cranbourne v Parkfield at Casey Fields #2, HSD v North Dandenong at K.M. Reedy Recreation Reserve.
Buckley Ridges opening batter Dale Tormey will be a key player in this week’s top-of-the-table clash. (Rob Carew: 517384)
Narre South’s Oshadha Oriyadasa will look to carry some form into Saturday, coming off a huge century last round. (517376)
Hopkins living out a dream
By David Nagel
The tiny town of Junction Village and its surrounds were jumping for joy on Saturday night after Canya Mayhem scored an emphatic victory in the time-honoured $1m Group 1 Melbourne Cup (515m) at Sandown Park.
Trainer Jess Hopkins lived out a childhood dream by winning the biggest race on the Australian greyhound racing calendar, becoming just the tenth female trainer to win the classic.
Jumping from box two, Canya Mayhem pinged handsomely once the lids went up, leading all the way in a time of 29.15.
The win was Hopkins’ second Group 1 success in just 12 months, following her Topgun Stayers triumph with Canya All Class last year.
Hopkins is heavily involved in both greyhound and thoroughbred racing, working for Grand Syndicates during the day and training a small team of five dogs from her Junction Village headquarters.
Hopkins was still shaking when interviewed after the race, recalling an interview that great jockey Damien Oliver had with John Letts after his first Melbourne Cup win aboard Doriemus in 1995.
“As a kid, fully into horse racing and dog racing, my earliest memory is Ollie saying ‘Lettsy, I’ve just won the cup’; and now I’ve just won the cup…it’s something I’ve always wanted to say,” Hopkins said with a beaming smile.
“He’s just a dream this dog, he’s no fuss, he’s no frills; there’s not that hype that there was with (Canya) All Class, and the pressure with him, he just does everything right.
“Tonight, we were walking out and he was just wagging his tail…I was like, ‘it is a pretty serious thing we’re about to do Sammy’.
“He got it done though.”
Hopkins said the dream result was the product of a lifetime engagement in the sport.
She had been dreaming of this before she could walk or talk.
“Since I was born, I was born into greyhound racing; I was in hospital for the first two weeks of my life and then I think I was at the track the next day,” she said.
Without A Trace of pressure
By David Nagel
An emotional pressure valve was released for trainer Peter Presutto after his star stayer Without A Trace gave nothing else a chance in the Group 1 Sportsbet Bold Trease (715m) at Sandown Park on Saturday night.
Without A Trace sprung the lids from box eight and produced a stunning display of elite endurance; holding off a quality field to add the Bold Trease to her terrific recent win in the Group 1 Topgun Stayers.
The win enhanced her growing reputation in the sport and confirmed her star status in the 2025 Sportsbet Dream Chasers Festival.
Presutto did well to hold back the tears after Without A Trace led all the way to stop the clock in 41.49 seconds.
“I’m going to try not to cry again tonight; it’s close, you feel the pressure every week, they’ve got to perform, and she performed again,” an emotional Presutto said post-race.
“I can’t believe how good she goes; she doesn’t let us down…. doesn’t let us down.”
Without A Trace opened up a good break
early in the staying test, but was challenged midway through the race by the talented Ayden’s Warrior.
But Presutto was confident in his girl as they ran past the starting boxes and began the chase for home.
“When she got past us, back here (at the boxes) again, I thought that was it, I didn’t think he’d (Ayden’s Warrior) get her,” he said.
“When he couldn’t get her around this bend (a lap to go) here, I thought once she comes past us here, she just sort of kicked again and towards the end she really did kick again.
“She opened up; what a marvel.”
It was Presutto’s second win of the evening after On The Prowl won the Super VICGreys Series Final earlier in the night.
But winning the Bold Trease definitely took top billing.
“All the years you’re in dogs, you see this race; Bold Trease was a superstar and I hope she does him proud as a stayer,” he said.
“It’s a night we probably won’t forget; one to remember.”
Double the fun for Hockley
By David Nagel
Woolamai’s racing season launched on Saturday under heavy going and a clearing sky but neither the conditions nor the forecast could dampen the enthusiasm of racegoers.
Patrons streamed through the gates throughout the afternoon, swelling the crowd to beyond expectations.
“The patrons just kept filing in as the afternoon unfolded and we estimated the crowd at around 1400, which was surprising considering the gloomy early conditions closer to Melbourne,” said committeeman Peter McCluskey.
The meeting produced a moment of genuine racing theatre, as veteran part-time trainer Ron Hockley landed a rare double - 55 years after he last achieved the feat.
Hockley, who combines horse training with supplying hay around Seymour, first struck in Race 5 when Morusi Dori, ridden by Ben Moffat, powered home.
Brimming with emotion after the win, Hockley declared, “We’ll win a cup with him and win the next with Lord Chapel.”
In a storybook follow-through, Lord Chapel did exactly that.
Jockey Leigh Taylor lifted the gelding to victory at 9/1, securing Hockley’s long-awaited double and notching a riding double for himself after an earlier win aboard Rule of Salex for Pakenham-
trainer Michael Harrison.
With recent rains promising strong hay yields, Hockley may well be eyeing a double of a different kind in the paddocks this season too.
The card began with a confident front-running ride from Angela Bence, guiding Stewart, trained by Sharyn Trolove at Sale, to a 2.5-length win over the picturesque 1008-metre sprint.
Race Two went the way of Valorous Star, prepared by Seymour trainer Melissa Page and giving jockey Ben Moffat the first leg of his own riding double.
One of the day’s most popular victories came in Race Three, where Acey Deucy, trained by Charlie and Bernie Gafa of Moe, stormed home under jockey Jasmine Trenwith.
The seven-year-old mare unleashed a late burst to reel in Rivers Reward, trained by Noni Shelton, securing Trenwith the meeting’s Ride of the Day.
This award carried special significance.
The club honoured the late Peta Tait—an admired and long-serving picnic jockey who tragically died in a racing accident in July—by naming the Ride of the Day in her memory and featuring a touching tribute in the racebook.
Woolamai’s next meeting, the always-popular Christmas Raceday, will be held on 20 December. Tickets are available via the club’s website, with walk-ups welcome on the day.
Jockey Angela Bence guides the Sharyn Trolove-trained Stewart to victory in the opening race on the first day of the racing season at Woolamai. (Supplied: 521536)
Trainer Peter Presutto gives Without A Trace a well-earned hug after her all-the-way victory in the Group 1 Bold Trease (715m) at Sandown Park on Saturday night. (Clint Anderson: 521211)
“There’s a photo of me up in the kennels, about a year old.” Female trainers dominated the great race, with the Kayla Cottrell-trained Dashing Slay fin-
ishing powerfully into second place. The Jeff Britton-trained Valenzuela used boxone to advantage; earning a nice pay cheque in third place.
Jess Hopkins celebrates with Canya Mayhem after the all-the-way win in Saturday night’s $1m Melbourne Cup. (Clint Anderson: 521211)
