Thursday, 20 August, 2026
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‘Too many women dying’
Bird flu alert
Data centre vote looms
Berwick banished by Burners
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SPORT
Meeting in name of respect By Jensy Callimootoo Hundreds of students and staff gathered at Bunjil Place for a special event, titled ‘August for Echoes of Country: Footsteps to Respect’. The day didn’t only champion diversity and education against racism but it also helped students across 23 different schools
in Casey build resilience, perseverance and self-determination among Koorie students. Students had the chance to take park in dance activities, a smoking ceremony and various other fun tasks. FOR MORE PICTURES OF THE EXCURSION, TURN TO PAGE 10
Uncle Steve Ulula Parker. (Stewart Chambers: 570940)
Leaders take helm the mayoralty and restructure her work so she could fully commit to the role. With only a short period remaining in the current mayoral term, she said her main focus would be advocating for Casey ahead of the November state election. Cr Crowther identified the Clyde Rail Link and Thompsons Road extension as Council’s key
infrastructure priorities, saying residents, particularly in growth areas, were frustrated by the amount of time they spent travelling by car. She said she would also continue progressing Council initiatives covering food security, community safety and family violence. Cr Koomen stepped down as Mayor to focus on his campaign as Labor’s candidate for Narre
Warren South at the 2026 November State Election. In a farewell Facebook post, he highlighted efforts to rebuild trust and integrity at Council, saying Casey was on track to become debt-free next year while continuing record capital investment. FULL STORY PAGE 4
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Casey Council has a new leadership team, with Cr Michelle Crowther elected Mayor and Cr Anthony Walter appointed Deputy Mayor following former Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen’s resignation. Cr Crowther, who previously served as Deputy Mayor, said her experience advocating for Casey over the past year had encouraged her to pursue
NEWS
Sanctuary on high alert By Violet Li Moonlit Sanctuary has lifted its bird flu protections to their highest level as H5N1 bird flu spreads through Victoria. The Pearcedale wildlife park warns that the virus may already be far more widespread than detected cases suggest. Moonlit Sanctuary founder Michael Johnson warned in June that the highly pathogenic strain would likely reach Victoria, and said the recent detections around Clyde, Phillip Island and the Mornington Peninsula showed the situation had now changed rapidly. “I think the spread of the cases shows it’s probably a lot more widespread than we think,” he said.
“I think it’s sort of well established. “Unfortunately, I think we’ll start seeing it moving more inland into different wildlife areas.” Mr Johnson said Moonlit had progressively tightened its biosecurity measures as reports emerged and was now operating at close to its highest level of protection. “As each report has come in, we reviewed and we’ve increased the security, and we’ll continue to review it as we go as to what’s needed,” he said. “We are now pretty much on our highest level now.” Staff have been trained to recover and dispose of sick or dead birds using personal protective equipment, while the sanctuary can also undertake some bird flu testing before notifying authorities.
Mr Johnson said finding an infected wild bird on the property would not automatically force the sanctuary to close, with the risk to the general public remaining very low. Moonlit’s greatest concern is its threatened species, particularly the critically endangered orange-bellied parrot. Mr Johnson said the sanctuary had prioritised protecting its most vulnerable animals, including orange-bellied parrots and regent honeyeaters. There were also concerns for mammals that could potentially become infected by eating diseased birds. “You’re looking at scavenging mammals like, say, dingo or Tasmanian devil. We’ve got to be worried about them too,” he said. The sanctuary is also waiting for details about
a government-backed vaccination program. Mr Johnson said Federal funding had been provided to states to vaccinate animals involved in recovery programs, but Moonlit had yet to hear how or when its endangered animals would receive protection. “We’re still waiting to find out what, how and when they’re going to help us out with vaccinating the critically endangered species,” he said. As of 15 August, there are 74 positive cases of H5 bird flu in Victoria. If you see sick or dead birds or other wildlife, do not touch them. Avoid direct contact. Record what you see. Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, or using the following form: forms.bio.vic.gov.au/wildlife-influenza-investigation
‘Too many women are dying’: Councillors back review By Jensy Callimootoo
Cr Lynette Pereira. (On file) Cr Pereira said Casey could not rely on police responses alone to address a problem that also required prevention and early intervention. The meeting heard there was broad support for advocating for an Alexis worker to be based at Narre Warren Police Station, which councillors identified as a priority for discussions with the Victorian Government. Councillors also highlighted the relationship between family violence, housing and homelessness, including the need for safe crisis accommodation for victim survivors. Mayor Michelle Crowther, said council had a role in building community support for change, arguing that successful intervention would require the community to be ready to engage with new approaches. In a similar passionate plea, Cr Scott Dowling outlined the need for more investment in children community services in means of early violence prevention. “I just don’t think it’s that hard and that expensive for a council like us and councillors to want it and introduce it,” he said. Cr Pereira concluded her speech by reinforcing the need for practical action alongside existing advocacy and support services. “I want to see some results. I don’t want to have another conversation like this in 16 years. “I want a road map that leads to measurable outcomes. 16 years saying the same old thing again and again. We’ve got lives that we need to protect and there are too many women dying.”
Neville Arathoon with one of his prized pigeons in Endeavour Hills. (Stewart Chambers: 571853)
Pigeons exempt from flying ban By Cam Lucadou-Wells Pigeons will no longer be temporarily cooped up, with the birds seemingly immune from the ravages of H5 bird flu. To the relief of pigeon fanciers, Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer issued an exemption to the temporary flying-ban on lofts of more than 50 pigeons. Dandenong pigeon club secretary Neville Arathoon said the racing ban – which lasted less than a week – came nine weeks into the pigeon racing season. The club’s pigeons were building up their endurance, culminating in stages up to 1000 kilometres in October. “We normally fly them an hour or an hourand-a-half a day. The birds are super fit at the moment.” Worldwide evidence had shown the H5 bird flu had not harmed pigeons, Arathoon said. “The pigeon is basically immune to bird flu.” However, in the past decade or so, pigeons had been ravaged by pigeon paramyxovirus – which had led to vaccinations and high hygiene practices in the industry, he said. “The biosecurity of pigeon fanciers is secondto-none. We all have council permits and inspections. “Our pigeons not like your average feral pigeon. They’re cleaned twice a day, get fresh water and grit – some are fed human-grade grain and no expense is spared.” Springvale pigeon club secretary Daryl Kloprogge said the reprieve was a relief to an ageing industry. Most owners were aged 70 and older. “The real worry is for the chook industry because so many rely on eggs. If they have a big outbreak at a poultry farm, they will have to slaughter
One of Neville Arathoon’s flyers. the whole lot.” According to Agriculture Victoria, pigeons are considered more resistant to avian influenza than other bird species. However, infection is still possible in pigeons and the disease can be fatal. The most susceptible poultry include chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and quail. If you find sick or dead wild birds or wildlife with signs of H5 bird flu: Avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds or wildlife and their environment. Record what you see. Report it to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action using the online form or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
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Casey Council will investigate new ways to tackle family violence in the municipality after councillors unanimously backed a feasibility report examining prevention and early intervention models. Cr Lynette Pereira’s notice of motion, considered at Tuesday night’s council meeting, calls for a briefing report to be brought back by the October 2026 council meeting. “Quite frankly, I am frustrated,” she said on what prompted her call for urgent action. The report will examine existing family violence responses, potential new interventions and the role Casey could play in delivering or funding them. Currently, Casey reports 8000 incidents every year. Cr Pereira, reflected on her past tenure as councillor 16 years ago, describing her plea for funding dedicated to domestic violence initiative and prevention programs in Casey. “I didn’t get very far. 16 years later, Casey still records the highest number of family violence incidents in Victoria,” she said. In a shaky voice and heartfelt plea, Cr Pereira extended her sympathies to Brooke Stephen’s family and two sons, who she was forced to leave behind following her alleged murder in late July. The report will specifically investigate models including the Alexis family violence response model, the saturation approach being trialled in Ballarat, and the U-turn program, which targets perpetrators experiencing drug and alcohol dependence. Councillors will also be given information about who could deliver such programs, their likely costs, potential funding sources and opportunities to seek financial support from state and federal governments. The motion also requires consideration of specialist family violence services operating across Melbourne’s south-east, existing gaps and possible pathways into crisis accommodation for victim survivors who need to leave their homes.
Clean, groomed pigeons in Neville Arathoon’s loft. (Stewart Chambers: 571853)
2 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 20 August, 2026
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Machete-armed man jailed for ‘frightening’ kidnapping By Cam Lucadou-Wells An armed man who “frighteningly” kidnapped an ex-partner in his car in Clyde North after threatening to slay her and her family has been jailed. Brandon Vyse, 25, of Officer, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to kidnapping, common law assault and threatening to kill. On 25 August 2025, Vyse pleaded with the woman in a Clyde North park to resume their relationship. She rejected the offer. An hour later, the heavy user of cocaine who was on a ‘good behaviour bond’ arrived at her relative’s house armed with a machete. She went outside to calm him down. “Get in the car with me otherwise I’m going
to kill your family,” he said. Scared for her and her family’s safety, she got in the passenger seat. During their drive, Vyse demanded her phone, and grabbed hold of her and punched her in the face. He screamed how much he hated her, that he would murder her and her family and that she’d regret life. The survivor managed to open the car door using her foot. Vyse told her to “get the f*** out of the car”. After she exited, she spat blood onto the grass. Vyse drove back for her, waved the machete and told her: “If you don’t come back with me, I’m going to kill us both.”
He drove them erratically up to 120 km/h through Clyde North, making deliberate attempts to crash into other cars. He warned if she reported the incident to police, he’d sort out her family. Vyse was later arrested at home. Since then, he has been locked up in remand. In sentencing, judge Tara Hartnett said the “frightening ordeal” had an enduring impact on the victim-survivor. His “sustained”, ‘brutal” and “appalling” conduct, which was designed to intimidate her, was highly linked to his drug abuse, the judge said. Judge Hartnett noted the Endeavour Hillsraised man’s criminal priors including robbery, dishonesty, bail offences, drug offences and
criminal damage, but no other family-violence incidents. She said an “unequivocable” message needed to be sent that family violence offenders faced lengthy jail terms. However, given Vyse’s young age, the judge also needed to factor in his “good” rehabilitation prospects. In this regard, his drug and anxiety-depressive issues required treatment. His parents’ support and his consistent work history were noted. Vyse was jailed for three years and 10 months, including a two-year and four-month non-parole period. His term includes 353 days in pre-sentence remand.
Council approves final land acquisition for shared-use trail By Jensy Callimootoo Casey Council has unanimously approved the acquisition of a large parcel of land in Narre Warren North, paving the way for a long-planned shared-use trail along the Menzies Creek corridor. The land, located in Belgrave-Hallam Road, is the final section needed to complete the planned connection between Frog Hollow Reserve and Lysterfield Park. Council has progressively acquired land along the creek corridor since 2005 as part of its plans for the trail. The proposal received relatively strong
support during community consultation, with 24 submissions in favour and one objection. Cr Melinda Ambros, who moved the motion, said the acquisition was an important step towards completing a missing link in the local trail network. She acknowledged concerns raised during consultation about privacy, security, residential amenity, fencing and how the trail would integrate with neighbouring properties. However, she stressed that approving the land acquisition did not amount to final approval of the trail’s construction. Further
planning and decision-making would consider those concerns and determine appropriate measures. The proposed trail is intended to improve connectivity between existing reserves and provide a continuous route for pedestrians and cyclist. Former Mayor, Cr Stefan Koomen, described the acquisition as an “excellent piece of the puzzle”, of more than 20 years — the land also has a complicated history with Casey Council. In 2017, the Foy family, which owns the land, had previously resisted a compulsory acquisition attempt by council.
The family has now agreed to the sale, allowing the trail plans to progress. The environmental benefits were also highlighted, with Cr Lynette Pereira pointing to opportunities for biodiversity, habitat conservation and wildlife corridors alongside the recreational benefits. Council officers said the project supports several priorities in the Casey Council Plan, including active participation, connectivity, biodiversity and natural resource and water management. The acquisition was approved unanimously at the council meeting.
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New Casey leadership By Violet Li Casey has a new leadership team, with Cr Michelle Crowther elected Mayor and Cr Anthony Walter appointed Deputy Mayor following former Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen’s resignation. Cr Crowther was nominated by Cr Jennifer Dizon as a mayoral candidate at a Special Council Meeting on the night of Tuesday 18 August. She was the only nominated candidate, and she had the full 11 votes. She moved up from the deputy mayoral role she had held since the November 2025. Cr Walter was nominated by Cr Koomen as a deputy mayoral candidate. He was also the only nominated candidate, and he secured full 11 votes. Cr Koomen stepped down as Mayor to focus on his campaign as Labor’s candidate for Narre Warren South at the upcoming November State Election. Cr Crowther said her experience advocating for Casey over the past year had encouraged her to put herself forward for the mayoralty. “Over the course of the year, as I became involved in advocacy for Casey in a number of forums, I realised I was skilled in advocating for the Casey community,” she said. “I then started to re-structure my work to be able to fully commit to the Mayoral role.” With only a short period remaining in the current mayoral term, Cr Crowther said her immediate focus would be pushing for infrastructure and service commitments ahead of the State Election. “Clyde Rail and the Thompson’s Rd extension are our key infrastructure projects for the upcoming state election - we understand the
frustration of Casey residents who spend considerable time in their cars, especially in our growth areas,” she said. The proposed Clyde Rail Link has long been a major advocacy priority for the rapidly growing south-east, while Council has also been campaigning for further upgrades and an extension of Thompsons Road. Cr Crowther said she would also continue work already under way in areas including food security, community safety and family violence. “In the short time of my Mayoral term, my key priorities are advocating for the Casey community in the lead-up to the election to help deliver the key infrastructure and services our growing community needs,” she said. “Plus continuing to progress many initiatives we have already commenced - like community support through food security initiatives, community safety and family violence.” Cr Crowther said during her deputy time, she worked closely with Cr Koomen and learned a lot. “He worked hard to rebuild community trust in council and also supported our councillor group,” she said. Cr Koomen marked the end of his mayoralty in a Facebook post, saying Council was in a stronger position than when the new councillor group took office. “Elected twice and supported by all Councillors, I’ve given everything I have to this role and our community,” he wrote. He pointed to “rebuilding trust, restoring integrity and bringing Council back to the community” as achievements of his time as Mayor, and said Casey was on track to be debt-free next year while delivering record capital investment. “It has been an absolute honour,” he said.
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Cr Michelle Crowther (right) is the new Mayor and Cr Anthony Walter (left) was appointed as Deputy Mayor. (Supplied)
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Questions over consultation By Violet Li Casey Council has confirmed it is legally able to voluntarily notify residents about the proposed $1.1 billion Clyde North data centre but says doing so would create unnecessary delay and uncertainty. The clarification came after Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) president Anthony Tassone questioned whether planning rules merely removed the council’s obligation to give public notice, or actually prevented it from seeking community feedback. The proposed data centre at 585 Berwick-Cranbourne Road covers about 53.6 hectares and has an estimated development value of $1.1 billion. The application is exempt from the usual public notice and third-party VCAT review requirements under the Urban Growth Zone provisions. In its response to CRRA, Council confirmed the Planning and Environment Act did not pre-
vent it from voluntarily notifying a permit application. However, Council said voluntarily advertising an application that was specifically exempt from notice was not considered an ‘efficient administration’ of the planning scheme and could cause confusion over whether residents had formal objection and appeal rights. Council acknowledged the proposal had attracted significant public interest and said some residents had already made submissions. While those submissions do not carry formal third-party review rights, planning officers would still consider the key issues they raised. Mr Tassone said the response confirmed council had made a choice not to voluntarily consult residents. “Just because you don’t have to consult does not mean you shouldn’t,” he said. “For a proposal of this scale and significance, efficiency should not override transparency and genuine community consultation.” CRRA welcomed the recent decision to have
Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) president Anthony Tassone welcomed the recent decision to have the Clyde North data centre application determined publicly by elected councillors, but argued that should not replace consultation before a decision was made. (FILE) the application determined publicly by elected councillors, but argued that should not replace consultation before a decision was made. Mr Tassone also rejected council’s argument
that consultation had already occurred through the Croskell Precinct Structure Plan process, saying the exhibited plan did not specifically identify a data centre of this scale and nature.
Councillors to decide on $1.1b Clyde North data centre By Violet Li Casey councillors will decide on the controversial $1.1 billion Clyde North data centre proposal. Casey’s outgoing Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen ‘called in’ the application, which means decision-making power over the application had been moved from council officers to councillors, who will vote on the proposal at a future public council meeting. The application, PA26-0190, seeks approval for the staged development of a data centre at 585 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Clyde North. It is the first planning permit application of its kind received by Casey. Council said the application was ‘called in’ under its Land Use Planning Protocols because it had generated “significant community interest” and the decision was likely to be of interest beyond the immediate neighbourhood. Calling in an application does not indicate whether councillors support or oppose the proposal, but means the ultimate decision will be made publicly rather than under delegated authority by council officers. No date has yet been set for the council meeting. Council planning officers are continuing to assess the proposal and have requested further information from the applicant. Council is also seeking information from the Environment Protection Authority and external water and power authorities before making a decision. The update follows weeks of community concern over the proposed development. Residents gathered in Clyde North on Saturday 25 July to discuss the project, with concerns raised about its potential noise, electricity and
Residents gathered in Clyde North on Saturday 25 July to discuss the project, with concerns raised about its potential noise, electricity and water demands. (FILE) water demands. An online petition opposing the proposal has gathered more than 1500 signatures. However, residents face an unusual planning process. Council stated that the application is not required to undergo formal public notice under the planning rules applying to the land, meaning community members cannot lodge a submission that gives them third-party rights to challenge the
council’s eventual decision at VCAT. Council said those requirements were set by the State planning framework rather than by Casey. Despite the absence of formal objection and appeal rights, council said it would still consider key issues raised by residents as part of its assessment. The 53.6-hectare site forms part of the Croskell Employment Precinct, a planned industri-
al and commercial area between Thompsons Road, Berwick-Cranbourne Road and Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road. Council said there was currently no timeframe for a decision, with the process dependent on the applicant providing the requested additional information and responses being received from referral authorities. Details of the public council meeting will be announced once confirmed.
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NEWS
Deaths on our roads Five pedestrians have died on Casey roads this year as Victoria Police continues a major operation targeting dangerous driving in areas with high pedestrian traffic. Victoria Police said Casey was among the metropolitan areas targeted under Operation Aware, which has been running since May and has resulted in more than 1000 infringements statewide. There have been 27 pedestrian deaths on Victorian roads so far this year, down from 35 at the same time last year. About 85 per cent of those deaths occurred on metropolitan roads, including five in Casey, one of the highest figures highlighted by police, and four in the Hume area. Operation Aware has involved local and state
highway patrols, solo units, bike patrols and foot patrols focusing on areas where large numbers of pedestrians interact with other road users. Casey is among nine priority areas, alongside Melbourne CBD, Glen Eira, Stonnington, Monash, Whitehorse, Hume, Wyndham and Geelong. Police have detected 1082 offences during the operation, with speeding accounting for almost half. Of the 479 speeding offences, 82 per cent involved motorists travelling between 10km/h and 25km/h over the limit. Police have focused enforcement on 40km/h to 60km/h zones, where pedestrian trauma most commonly occurs. Officers also detected 70 motorists using mo-
bile devices while driving, 46 disqualified or unlicensed drivers and 46 offences for disobeying traffic signs or signals. Sixteen impaired drivers were detected, including 12 drug-driving offences from 426 roadside drug tests and four drink-driving offences from 957 preliminary breath tests. Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Mick Hermans said police remained concerned about behaviour putting pedestrians at risk. “While pedestrian trauma is currently trending down this year, we cannot afford to be complacent – particularly as August remains a highrisk month for collisions involving pedestrians,” he said. Mr Hermans said officers had seen motorists speeding in built-up areas, using mobile phones,
In February this year, a car crashed on Pound Road in Narre Warren South. The car hit a 16-year-old pedestrian who later passed away. (FILE) driving while impaired and failing to stop or give way. Operation Aware will continue throughout August, with police also urging pedestrians to use designated footpaths and crossings and remain alert around roads and vehicles.
Teachers accept latest pay deal, strike called off
Complete your Census now. It‘s not too late.
By Jensy Callimootoo The majority of public school teachers and education support staff in Victoria have voted in favour of the government’s newest pay deal, putting a stop to Wednesday’s planned strike. School staff, including principals will now see a minimum pay increase of 28.3 per cent over four years, on top of a $2000 lump-sum payment. In terms of workload, which has been a key area for reforms for all education staff, there will be a limit on the number of face-to-face teaching hours and one hour reduction to time spent attending meetings. Teachers, learning specialists, assistant principals and education support employees who have reached the top of their pay scale will also be granted a 1 per cent annual lump-sum payment. A teacher from Berwick told Star News he was relieved that the voting outcome would put a stop to Wednesday’s stop-action, which would have been the union’s third strike in the last five months. With the relief however, comes doubt on how the agreement will adequately alleviate workload. Staff seek to cut back on overtime hours, reduce mandatory after-school meetings as well as reduce paperwork burden. “There’s still not a huge difference to workload levels-but we don’t have to do any work at home,” he said. “I’m not sure how that is going to work. “I’ve got 190 or so CATs to mark and that takes a lot of time. Then there’s lesson planning and other admin stuff to get through.” The union’s boss, Justin Mullaly, said 79 per cent of members voted to endorse the deal which was put on the table last week. A Dandenong teacher of 20 years, Inaz Janif, said that there were “great changes” to the offer. And hopes that the conditions will continue to improve in line with other states to prevent burnout. Something that she says she’s witnessed through her own children’s experience. “If conditions on the ground improve, then students’ conditions will also improve, leading to improved retention of talented and dedicated professionals in public education,” Ms Janif said. “Investing in public education is investing in our collective future.” Currently, Victorian public education staff are the lowest paid in Australia despite being dubbed the Education State. Members originally sought an increase in salary to match interstate rates. Under the current agreement the minimum wage for entry level teachers sits just short of $80,000 rising incrementally to about $118,000. In comparison, NSW’s minimum wage starts at $90,000 rising incrementally to about $118,000. While offers have been put on the table in the last few months, the majority of members voted against the agreements as it did not sufficiently address workload. The agreement will now proceed to a vote of all employees as required under the Fair Work Act.
Census night was Tuesday 11 August. It’s compulsory for each household to complete the Census to help plan for Australia’s future. For help, visit census.abs.gov.au or call 1800 181 227.
Every answer matters. Authorised by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Canberra 12868782-AF34-26
6 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 20 August, 2026
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Calls to dump, not pause, WFH laws By Cam Lucadou-Wells and AAP
The Facebook post.
Readers’ poll: ‘No’ vote wins WFH debate DO YOU AGREE WITH WORKING-FROM-HOME? In our Facebook poll last week, Star News readers in the South East voted with a strong majority against working from home (WFH). ■ YES - 31 per cent ■ NO - 69 per cent Some of the Facebook comments included: Diane Quigley: As long as the work is completed does it matter where you work? Karen Thomson: If that’s what the employer wants. They’re the ones paying you. Francess Minten: No. It’s going to ruin Australian businesses and cause massive job losses. It also opens a whole can of worms regarding Health, Safety and Wellbeing.
South East and Victorian business groups say the State Government needs to go further than “pause” its proposed work-from-home laws. Premier Ben Carroll announced that the WFH laws’ start date will be pushed back from 1 September to July 1, 2027, with “sensible amendments” to be made to the legislation. “My door will always be open to the business community,” he said. “That is why I’ve delayed these changes, and it’s why I’m going to continue to work with the business community on making sure this policy is right.” Full-time, part-time and casual employees will get the right to work from home two days a week on a pro-rata basis if reasonably able to under the legislation. A grace period was already in place until July 1 for businesses with fewer than 15 employees. Debate on the bill, which has already passed the lower house and was expected to pass the upper house within days, has also been delayed. The bill would still be passed before the November state election, Carroll said. South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) and other business groups such as Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Property Council of Australia have long resisted the reform. SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker said “hitting pause is a good idea”. “It seems Premier Carroll is listening but consultation with business must continue.” She said the laws, if passed, would turn the region crowned as Australia’s manufacturing powerhouse into a “graveyard”. “If this government is truly business friendly
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has announced a pause on its proposed work-from-home laws. and wants a thriving Victoria, then this government must dump this legislation.” Walker argues that the reform would “repel investment in Victoria” along with the state’s “crippling land and payroll taxes”. “Work from home arrangements should be negotiated between the employer and the employee,” Walker said. “The government need not dictate the terms of employment in private businesses. “If the government insists on this legislation – it should only be applied to the public sector not the private sector and make that clear.” VCCI chief executive Sally Curtain hoped to persuade the Premier to “abandon this destructive course”. “As it stands, this legislation remains a profound risk to our state’s economy.” In its push for the WFH laws, the Government
argued that more than a third of workers – including 60 per cent of professionals – regularly work from home WFH saves families money, as well as saving hours on commuting, it stated. Among the more contentious elements of the legislation is a requirement for employers to pay any reasonable costs to allow an eligible employee to work remotely. Employers must respond to a work-fromhome notice within 21 days and propose alternative arrangements if they knock back a request. Shadow attorney-general James Newbury labelled the Labor government “vandals”, accusing it of creating instability for businesses and workers. “This government can’t be trusted,” he said. “Ben Carroll has had four positions on working-from-home in the past two weeks.”
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Compensation review after pothole crisis By Ethan Henson The Victorian Government has called for a review of its pothole compensation scheme after reports of just 2 per cent of motorists’ claims being accepted. After the dangers that a series of potholes posed to drivers in Bunyip on Monday, August 10, the Herald Sun reported that 98 per cent of Victorian motorists were rejected for compensation due to not meeting the required damage threshold of $1,681. A Victorian Government spokesperson says the government is looking into the current legislation that has been in place since 2004. “The compensation legislation has been in place since 2004, and it’s fair to ask whether it still meets Victorians’ expectations. “The Carroll Labor Government will look at the current legislation, and we’ll consider if we have the balance right. “But our firm focus is on fixing the roads. “That’s why we have funded a record-breaking $1.04 billion road maintenance blitz to re-
build, repair, and resurface roads right across the state to get Victorians home sooner and safer.” Opposition roads and road safety spokesperson Danny O’Brien says Victorian motorists shouldn’t need compensation, instead “they should have the roads fixed”. Criticising the state government for letting the ‘rot’ continue after two years of budget cuts in road maintenance. “No one should believe that this government is actually interested. This is a review that they’ll never have to worry about or that they’ll never have to deliver,” O’Brien said. “Victorian motorists will see through exactly what this government is doing. “We’re in a cost of living crisis, people are blowing tyres, cracking rims, damaging their vehicles and they’re not even getting compensation for it. “Ben Carroll cut the roads maintenance budget by $214 million over two years when he was Minister for Roads, starting the rot that has now led to the appalling state of our roads.”
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Thursday, 20 August, 2026 | STAR NEWS 7
NEWS
Awareness through music By Afraa Kori Frustrated by government inaction and fearing more lives could be lost, a Casey councillor is turning to music to sound the alarm on family violence. Cr Scott Dowling has been performing at cafes, bars and community events in his own time, using his guitar to raise funds for organisations supporting domestic violence victims. But he says the performances are about more than fundraising. They give him a chance to make people stop, talk and confront an issue he believes remains a growing crisis. “We need compassion. We don’t need people ticking boxes and walking away from it,” Cr Dowling said. “We need people to understand the issues and call it out.” Cr Dowling said music gave him a more powerful way to connect with people than his role on council allowed. He displays family violence information at his performances and said people often stop to read it before striking up conversations about the issue. “That’s the most traction I’ve ever had,” he said. His advocacy comes as he calls for greater emphasis on family violence prevention and early intervention for young people. Cr Dowling believes community programs could give children positive environments where they can build confidence, discipline and social skills while being exposed to positive role models. His ideas include using libraries and other community spaces for age-appropriate activities such as reading, chess and music, alongside
Cr Scott Dowling using his gift in music to raise awareness. (Credits Stewart Chambers) programs incorporating boxing and self defense techniques that instill confidence, discipline and respect. “It would be great to have a couple of volunteer police involved to assist and build a lasting respectful bond,“ he said. He clarified the aim would be to teach young people discipline and respect rather than violence. Cr Dowling said children growing up in diffi-
cult circumstances could be particularly vulnerable to the effects of family violence, with the impacts potentially extending into their education and He wants programs designed so families feel welcomed rather than singled out, with social workers available to provide appropriate support. He also believes music could play a role. “I’d be happy to teach them how to play a few songs on guitar and assist with writing lyrics,”
he said. “I love to write words that express emotions relative to what’s happening at the time. I suppose it’s like poetry and you can put music to it.” For Cr Dowling, the broader goal is to strengthen connections within the community and families before problems escalate. He pointed to community events as an example, recalling a Christmas festival in Berwick where children played while parents from different backgrounds began talking to one another. “When kids are happy, you’re happy,” he said. Cr Dowling said existing approaches to family violence had failed to reverse the trend, despite councillors being broadly united on the issue. “All the councillors are on the same page, but the message and actions need to adjust with the circumstances at the time,” he said. He said the problem had continued to worsen rather than improve. “It’s worse today than it was 20 years ago,” Cr Dowling said. He also raised concerns about police resourcing in Casey, saying officers were already stretched responding to calls across the growing municipality. “We’re 1200 police short of what we need just in the City of Casey,” he said. “You can’t blame them for not being able to spend time or do any extra activities because they’re flat out.” Reflecting on the recent vigil for a Clyde mum allegedly murdered by her partner, Cr Scott warned that we shouldn’t wait for another death before stepping up and taking action on family violence. “We can’t run away from domestic violence. It affects everyone,” he said.
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
A hidden crisis
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Ann-Marie Hermans MP
ADVERTORIAL We are forgetting a painful, hidden consequence of the cost-of-living crisis – the impact on teenage girls. Recently, I was incredibly moved by a group of young female students in my local area, who spoke to me about period poverty. I promised them that I would raise their voices. In Australia, 64 per cent of women have found it difficult to buy period products, and nearly 30 per cent have purposely rationed products to cut costs. But with the current cost-of-living crisis hitting Victorian families hard, the reality for teenage girls is worse. Parents are facing soaring mortgages and bills, leaving many financially stretched, exhausted and time poor. This means that they are often not emotionally or physically available to have the conversations or provide the support their daughters need. Teenage girls are going without essential education about period symptoms, what’s normal and what isn’t, the support available to help manage pain and when to go see a doctor.
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At school, some girls don’t have even have the option of getting help in their first-aid room, because only two-thirds of Victorian government schools have access to a school nurse. The students also explained that teachers are not permitted to give them any medication. The result? Teenage girls sharing and trading medications, creating a dangerous environment where teenagers are taking unknown dosages or mixing medications without medical oversight. The students kept reminding me that females make up 50 per cent of our population. Period poverty directly impacts biological women and girls, and it deserves urgent attention. It is time this Carroll-Labor government starts giving the women of Victoria the resources, health support and dignity that we deserve. Ann-Marie Hermans MP Liberal State Member for South Eastern Metropolitan Region Shadow Assistant Minister for Community Safety Authorised by Ann-Marie Hermans MP, 1/31 Princes Highway, Dandenong VIC 3175
1/31 Princes Hwy, Dandenong VIC 3175 ann-marie.hermans@parliament.vic.gov.au vic.gov.au
Ann-MarieHermans.com.au AnnMarieHermansMP 03 9794 7667 Authorised by Ann-Marie Hermans MP, 1/31 Princes Highway, Dandenong VIC 3175
8 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 20 August, 2026
Ann-Marie Hermans MP, Liberal State Member for South Eastern Metropolitan Region, Shadow Assistant Minister for Community Safety.
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NEWS
Names help By Jensy Callimootoo Residents across Casey are being invited to suggest names for a new wave of parks, recreation reserves and community facilities as the City of Casey plans for the growth of the municipality. Casey Council has endorsed its 2026–2029 Forward Works Program for Naming and Registration of Council-Owned Reserves and Community Facilities, providing a three-year framework for naming new and existing council-owned sites. The program aims to ensure names reflect Casey’s history, culture and the people who have contributed to the community, while providing a consistent approach to naming future public places. Councillor Stefan Koomen said community input would help preserve local stories and recognise people whose contributions have had a lasting impact. “There are many people across Casey whose stories deserve to be remembered,” he said. The approach has already been used to recognise the contribution of local residents. In April, the council officially named the park beside the Autumn Place Community Hub in Doveton as Agnes O’Brien Reserve, following community consultation. O’Brien was recognised for decades of work supporting young people and creating opportunities for children in the community. Her family joined councillors for the unveiling of the reserve’s new signage, with Casey Council describing the naming as a way of connecting Casey’s history with its future. Currently, the council is preparing names for a range of locations, including the Cranbourne Community Hub on Lyall Street, several recre-
The Agnes O’Brien storyboard which was named after the community legend following feedback. (Rob Carew/City of Casey) ation reserves and community facilities throughout Clyde and Clyde North, and facilities in Cranbourne North and Cranbourne. Sites identified for naming include reserves on Bells Road, Manton Road, Bellavita Avenue, Hardys Road, Smiths Lane, Thompsons Road and Woodfield Avenue. The program also identifies council-owned reserves that currently require an official name or registration. Residents do not have to wait for a particular site to be nominated, with the council accepting suggestions for future consideration at any time. All proposed names will be assessed against Casey’s naming guidelines and the Victorian Government’s official naming rules before being considered.
LNP, One Nation on track The Liberal Nationals (LNP) and One Nation are on track to form an Upper House majority in November’s state elections, according to an SMS Roy Morgan poll. Overall across Victoria’s eight regions, the LNP Coalition was predicted to win at least 11 seats, One Nation at least 10 seats, the ALP at least nine seats, the Greens two seats, with eight seats either undecided or to be won by a minor party. In the South Eastern Metropolitan region, One Nation polled its highest vote in the state with 36.5 per cent, the LNP 22 per cent, ALP 21.5 per cent, with Greens 6 per cent and Independent/Others 14 per cent. This would translate to One Nation winning at least two of the region’s six seats, the LNP and ALP with one seat each, and one seat undecided. The SMS survey was conducted from 5-7 August after the new Victorian Premier Ben Carroll was announced, after Carroll’s cabinet re-shuffle and after Warren Pickering was announced as the leader of One Nation in Victoria. It was also after Parliament abolished Group Voting Tickets in the upper house meaning parties require 12 per cent support plus preferences to win a seat. The survey is a representative Victoriawide cross-section of 2,084 electors. The LNP’s highest support was in the Upper House regions, Eastern Victoria (32.5% support, two seats), Northern Victoria (30.5%, two seats) and Southern Metropolitan (36%, two seats). One Nation was projected to secure at least two seats in Western Metropolitan (29.5% support) as well as South-Eastern Metropolitan,
(File) and a seat in six other regions. The ALP is on track to secure at least nine seats including two seats in Northern Metropolitan (39% support) and a seat in seven other regions. The poll shows Greens are on track to secure one seat in each of Northern Metropolitan (22% support), and North-Eastern Metropolitan (12.5%). According to Roy Morgan, if the Victorian State Election was held now, it would likely be a hung Parliament. On two party preferred, the LNP leads Labor 51-49. This month, Group Voting Tickets - in which voters could choose just one party above the line on the ballot paper - was abolished in an attempt to prevent preference harvesting or preference whispering. This meant parties could strike preference deals to see candidates with primary votes as low as 1 per cent to be elected. The new system, which will be implemented in the upcoming November election, will require voters to number at least five parties above the line of preference.
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
The critically endangered Swamp Everlasting daisy, Xerochrysum palustre. This was chosen by public vote as the City of Melbourne floral emblem in February 2026. (Russell Larke – RBGV-Cranbourne)
Celebrate Australia’s plants By Australian Plant Society – Cardinia Region Australian native plants are special. Many are water wise, attract birds and pollinators, and don’t need much fertilising. And they are beautiful. Indigenous plants are native plants which evolved locally. They are adapted to local conditions and provide a habit for wildlife. Many plants are indigenous to the Casey and Cardinia regions. These include lilies: and relatives such as Dianella and Lomandra, shrubs such as Correa (native fuchsia), and trees including Blackwood and Silver Banksia. Our regions are also home to several endangered and threatened indigenous plants, from the Matted flax-lily (Dianella amoena), to the Swamp Everlasting (Xerochrysum palustre, a bright yellow daisy), and the Yarra Gum (Eucalyptus yarraensis), a tree adapted to swampy soils. The Australian Plants Society Cardinia Region Inc. is dedicated to supporting the appreciation and planting of native flora. The Society is a
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volunteer-run charity under the umbrella of APS Victoria Inc. It hosts an annual native plant sale on the first Saturday of September. This year the sale will be on Saturday 5 September at Akoonah Park, Berwick, from 9 am to 3 pm. It will be attended by local and regional specialist native plant growers. The event will also include a presentation by Phillip Johnson, the only Australian to win the ‘Best in Show’ award at the international Chelsea Flower Show. He is one of Australia’s most creative and awarded landscape designers, and his presentation will focus on sustainable gardening using Australian native plants. Entry to this presentation is by $5 ticket from Humanitix, and you will need to be seated in the Akoonah Park Function Centre at 9.55 am. Entry to the plant sale is free. To encourage the appreciation and planting of indigenous species, patrons attending the plant sale will receive free indigenous plant giveaways – until they last. All you need is an interest in our unique floral heritage.
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Thursday, 20 August, 2026 | STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
Uncle Steve Ulula Parker.
Hampton Park Secondary College Student Leaders Kiarah, Monson and Sudammi with Uncle Steve Ulula Parker. (Stewart Chambers: 570940)
Berwick Chase Primary School Jason Love (education support) and Chris Short (principal) with students Kyla, Jordan, Mason, Bhuvan and Lilah.
Footsteps to respect severance and self-determination among Koorie students while promoting respect for diversity and reducing racism. Students took part in cultural, sporting, health and team-building activities, including a smok-
ing ceremony, yarning circles, traditional games, art, tree planting and VR experiences. The day also brought together community organisations, schools, sporting clubs, Victoria Police and the City of Casey for connection, culture and learning.
Tahlia with her kids Hemi and Aycer from Coral Park Primary School made a turtle from yarn.
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More than 350 students and staff from 23 schools across Casey came together at Bunjil Place on Monday 17 August for Echoes of Country: Footsteps to Respect. Led by Hampton Park Secondary College, the full-day event aimed to build resilience, per-
10 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 20 August, 2026
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Referendum move voted down By Cam Lucadou-Wells A bid for Victorians to “have a say” on legalising cannabis use has been resoundingly defeated in the state’s Legislative Council. Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne led a parliamentary debate on 12 August for a plebiscite – which is a direct public vote - on the matter. Greens, Libertarian and Animal Justice MPs supported the move. It was emphatically voted down by Labor and Liberal-Nationals MPs. Ms Payne, a South Eastern Metropolitan MP, called for a plebiscite on ending the state’s 99 years of cannabis prohibition – backed by a survey of 80 per cent support from Victorians. “This is not about telling Victorians what the answer should be, it is about trusting them to make the decision. “If we genuinely believe in democracy, we should trust Victorians with this question.” Prohibition had inflicted “criminal records and consequences” for almost 4000 Victorians arrested for cannabis possession each year, she said. Such as stigma, loss of job opportunities, loss of licence, denial of housing and navigating the criminal justice system. At the same time, prohibition had failed to reduce use or eliminate the illicit market, she said. “I do not think we have ever identified cannabis as saying that it is harmless. “We all acknowledge that there are harms and risks associated with cannabis. “But what we do know is that the greatest harm is caused by the interactions with the criminal justice system.” As a supporter of legalising cannabis, Libertarian MP David Limbrick said he supported the motion, though he did not like plebiscites. “I do not think that people’s rights should be voted on.” But he agreed that creating a legal, regulated market would tackle a $1 billion-plus industry for organised crime in Victoria. Labor MP Ryan Batchelor advised Legalise
Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne argued for a plebiscite on legalising personal use and cultivation of cannabis. (Gary Sissons: 480136) Cannabis to continue its “relentless grind” of advocacy, but not through a plebiscite. “I do not think that putting standalone questions to the people on indicative policy issues is the way that our democracy has operated and should operate.” He said the Government was focused on “harm minimisation” in initiatives such as the
Richmond North supervised injecting facility, drug-checking and pill-testing services, and naloxone vending machines. He also noted its reforms for allowing medicinal cannabis. Liberal health spokesperson and MP Georgie Crozier supported medicinal cannabis – because it was regulated, along with safeguards and rigor-
ous testing. But she opposed the motion, voicing concern about the harms and potency of cannabis. “I am worried about the issue … of having a few plants growing in the backyard and who regulates that. “It will not drive out a black market; it will, I believe, further a black market.”
FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING
Winter foot and knee pain
To combat these issues, Dr. Dowie recommends the following: Stay active: Rug up and get out walking, go to the gym or indoor heated pool, or use a home exercise bike. Exercise improves blood flow and circulation, which helps alleviate aches, pains, and stiffness. Stretching or Yoga: These activities can assist flexibility and mobility of joints and tissues. Use Support Products: For existing inju-
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If you need assistance with foot and leg pain, injuries or arthritis, call Dr. Dowie at his Berwick clinic or other locations across Melbourne.
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ries, consider using knee & ankle braces or strapping. Caution Outdoors: When conditions are wet or icy, wear shoes with good traction and support. Wear Proper Footwear Indoors: If you’re spending more time at home, wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Avoid socks and slippers that may contribute to poor foot posture or increased risk of slips and falls.
· Dress Appropriately: Wear warm, layered
clothing, thermal socks, hats, and waterproof footwear to maintain body heat. Seek Professional Advice: If you experience persistent or recurring foot or leg pain, consult a lower limb musculoskeletal expert. If you need assistance with foot and leg pain, injuries or arthritis, you can see Dr. Dowie at his Berwick clinic or other locations across Melbourne. Call 1300 328 300.
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FOOT & LEG PAIN CLINICS trusted experts . proven solutions Cnr Clyde Rd & Moondara Dr, BERWICK
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The cold weather can affect our bodies in various ways, particularly impacting our feet and legs, which are crucial for much of our daily activity. But why is this the case? We spoke with one of Australia’s most experienced musculoskeletal podiatrists, Dr. Paul Dowie from Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, to gain insights into how cold weather affects pain and injuries and what you can do to help. “Winter doesn’t have to be synonymous with increased foot and leg pain; however, cold temperatures can impact pain and injuries, particularly in weight-bearing structures such as the feet, ankles, and knees. Cold weather can constrict blood vessels, reduce blood flow and circulation, and because we are often less active during the colder months, we may experience increased joint and tissue stiffness, as well as aggravated injuries and arthritic conditions. Wet and icy conditions also heighten the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, if joints and tissues aren’t warmed up properly before exercise, there is an increased risk of injury,” says Dr. Dowie.
Thursday, 20 August, 2026 | STAR NEWS 11
FOCUS ON … TEST OF TIME
50 Years, trusted locally For 50 years, Dandenong Pest Control has done more than simply keep unwanted pests at bay; it has built relationships, supported the local community and provided the honest, dependable service that has become increasingly hard to find. Family owned and operated, Dandenong Pest Control has proudly grown through generations while staying true to its founding values: hard work, honesty, reliability and treating people as you would want to be treated. With five decades of experience, customers can feel confident knowing they are dealing with a team that genuinely understands pest control and, just as importantly, understands the importance of looking after its customers. Dandenong Pest Control provides tailored pest management solutions for homes and businesses throughout Melbourne and surrounding suburbs. From common household pests including ants, spiders and cockroaches, through to rats, mice, termites, fleas and bed bugs, the experienced team takes the time to assess each property and develop an approach suited to the individual situation. But while pest control techniques and technology have changed over the past 50 years, the philosophy behind the business has remained refreshingly simple. It is about old-school values. It is about being honest with customers, providing straightforward advice and delivering a quality service without unnecessary fuss. It is about listening to a customer’s concerns, taking pride in the job and ensuring customers feel confident in the service they receive. The team also understands that being a local business means being part of something bigger. Supporting the local community has always been at the heart of Dandenong Pest Control, with the business proudly sponsoring local football and netball clubs across the Casey Cardinia region, including Berwick, Beaconsfield, ROC
The team at Dandenong Pest Control - Michelle McNeil, Sarah Smith, Jamie Knol, Denise Knol, George Knol, Gary Ashford, Mitch Brodrick, Daniel Lee, Matt Goldby, Mariah Allen and William Treadwell.
Five decades of protecting local homes and businesses - Dandenong Pest Control, Denise, Jamie and George.
and Pakenham. From residential properties to commercial premises, the team brings decades of knowledge and experience to every job. Whether addressing an ongoing pest issue or implementing preventa-
advice, quality service, community spirit and a genuine commitment to customers. For local families and businesses, that is something worth celebrating — a legacy Dandenong Pest Control is proud to continue.
tive measures to protect a property, customers can rely on practical advice and professional service. After 50 years, Dandenong Pest Control continues to prove that sometimes the best way forward is to stay true to what has always worked: honest
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12 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 20 August, 2026
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NEWS
Shark fear challenged By Violet Li A marine biologist who has come face-to-face with broadnose sevengill sharks in Western Port said a recent shark bite in Tasmania should be viewed with context rather than fear. Marine biologist, filmmaker and science communicator Sheree Marris, who is currently working on a social impact campaign highlighting the natural wonders of Western Port, has recently filmed the same shark species believed to have been involved in the Tasmanian incident. A diver suffered non-life-threatening injuries near Bruny Island in July after an encounter with what police believed was a roughly two-metre broadnose sevengill shark. Sheree said one particularly important detail was that the diver had reportedly been spearfishing and was retrieving a freshly speared fish when the incident occurred. She said a wounded fish could create multiple signals capable of attracting an opportunistic predator. “A struggling, injured fish can create a sensory cocktail of movement, vibration and chemical cues in the water,” she said. “To an opportunistic predator, that could signal a potential easy feed. “We can’t say exactly what motivated this shark, but context matters. There’s a big difference between a shark randomly biting a person and a shark investigating a situation where a freshly speared fish is involved.” Sheree said she preferred to call what happened a shark “incident” rather than an “attack”, arguing the latter could reinforce the perception of sharks as aggressive animals hunting humans. She said sevengills were opportunistic feeders that could take advantage of struggling, injured or dead animals. “They’re not villains in the ecosystem. They’re part of what makes the ecosystem work,” she said. Sheree has experienced the species firsthand while filming in Western Port and said the
Sevengill shark. (Western Port Down Under/Jack Breedon) encounter initially made her nervous. “It was my first time seeing one. So, I was nervous. I’m not going to lie,” she said. “You have to have a healthy respect. You’re getting in the water with a wild animal. “But once I saw one, I actually became quite relaxed being around them because they’re just such magnificent animals to have a look at. “I would jump back in the water in a heartbeat if I knew I could see one.” She described the sharks as sometimes inquisitive but also capable of being quite shy, rather than the fast-moving and erratic predators often depicted in popular culture. Broadnose sevengills can grow beyond three metres and feed across the marine food web,
including on fish, rays, other sharks and marine mammals. Sheree said predators such as sevengills played an important role in regulating ecosystems and consuming vulnerable, diseased or dead animals. “They’re like a garbage cleaner,” she said. “They have a really important role, and I think if people knew how incredible they are and also knew bits about their biology, people would go, ‘Oh wow, that’s really amazing.’” The species is also unusual among sharks. While most modern sharks have five pairs of gill slits, the broadnose sevengill has seven. They belong to an ancient evolutionary lineage, with fossil evidence of related sharks
stretching back more than 150 million years to the Jurassic period. Each shark also carries a distinctive pattern of spots that can be used to identify individuals, effectively acting as a ‘shark fingerprint’. For Sheree, seeing the species in Western Port also reinforces the ecological importance of the bay. She said sheltered Western Port waters were used by various shark species to pup, while the area also provided nursery habitat for species important to recreational and commercial fisheries. “I don’t want to scare people,” she said. “I want people to actually have this sense of fascination, not fear.”
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Thursday, 20 August, 2026 | STAR NEWS 13
NEWS
Rally takes racism stand By Jensy Callimootoo and Sahar Foladi Community groups, migrant and refugee advocates, faith organisations and political activists gathered in Dandenong on Sunday August 16 for a rally calling for an end to racism and the “scapegoating” of migrants. The “Unite Against Racism, Migrants Are Welcome” rally, initiated by Free Palestine Dandenong and Councillor Rhonda Garad, followed a student strike opposing Pauline Hanson’s One Nation and its anti-migrant rhetoric. “It’s going to be important that we, as a community, stand strong as Pauline Hanson and other One Nation candidates seek to divide us on the issue of race and religion,” Cr Garad said at the Monday 17 August Council meeting. “Racism is toxic, it’s terminal and certainly terminal to social cohesion. “It was tremendous to be with the few hundred people that came and strongly took a stand that we need to vaccinate ourselves against Pauline Hanson, her hate and division. “We are 70 per cent first or second generations, it makes no sense at all to divide us along race or religion. “Dandenong is a substantially cohesive community, and we will stay strong, we will build our immunity against her.” Garad also spoke on the day along with other speakers, Islamic Council of Victoria president Mohamed Mohideen OAM, advocate Samar Geid, former Afghan refugee Samim Moslih, Palestinian activist Muayad Ali and Korean migrant worker Seona Cho. For Geid, the rally was an important opportunity to demonstrate that racism does not represent the values of the wider Australian community.
Samar Geid Anti-Racism Project Lead and community development advocate. “Change doesn’t happen because of one rally alone, but history shows that change rarely happens without people coming together and making their voices heard,” she said. Geid, who works closely with multicultural communities, said she was increasingly hearing concerns about racism and hostility. “Many people are worried not only about political rhetoric, but about what it gives permission for in everyday life,” she told Star News. She said parents were worried about their children experiencing racism, while some women were reconsidering whether to wear visible expressions of their faith in public.
Greater Dandenong councillor, Rhonda Garad.
The audience was very passionate, holding their placards proudly.
Others, she said, felt less comfortable speaking their own language or simply being themselves. The concerns come amid heightened political debate over migration, housing and the cost of living. Those who attended the rally brought with them homemade signs and placards calling for the end of racist rhetorics. Sentiments that were displayed included ‘Casey Cardinia for Refugees’, another said ‘Unite against Racism’. Rally organisers rejected claims that migrants are responsible for these pressures, arguing that blaming communities for broader economic problems divides working people rather than addressing the causes of the crises. Geid said public demonstrations could help shift that conversation. “They send a powerful message that racism and hate do not represent the majority of Austra-
lians,” she said. “For people who experience racism, seeing thousands stand beside them reminds them they are not alone. “That sense of solidarity matters.” She acknowledged that protests alone cannot deliver lasting change, pointing instead to education, policy, community organising and everyday conversations as essential to confronting racism. Despite the fear she is hearing from some communities, Geid said she did not want anxiety to define multicultural Australia. “I also see resilience, solidarity and people from all backgrounds standing together,” she said. “That is the Australia I believe in.” Following speeches at Dandenong Market, protesters marched to Dandenong Library at Harmony Square, carrying a message that migrants and refugees belong in the community and that racism should not be allowed to divide it.
BUSINESS PROFILE
Berwick Village Jewellers: Where every piece tells a story There are some local businesses that become part of the fabric of a community, and Berwick Village Jewellers is one of them. Proudly serving Berwick for more than 45 years, this family-owned jeweller has built a wonderful reputation for quality craftsmanship, personalised service and helping customers find something truly special. Located in Blackburne Square, Berwick Village Jewellers continues the tradition established by original owners James and Kay Drysdale. Today, proprietors Anthony and Sylvia bring more than 30 years of experience in the jewellery and watch industry, alongside a passionate and knowledgeable team. Whether you are celebrating an engagement, marking a milestone birthday, searching for the perfect gift or simply looking to treat yourself, there is something rather magical about choosing a piece of jewellery that can become part of your story. From beautiful diamonds and timeless jewellery to watches and personalised designs, the team is dedicated to making every visit a memorable one. For those looking for something completely
unique, the team can bring ideas to life through their custom design service. Using your own gold and diamonds, or selecting new gemstones and materials, they can help create a bespoke piece that is as individual as the person wearing it. And the care doesn’t stop once you leave the store. With jewellery and watch repairs completed on-site by qualified professionals, along with jewellery remodelling and same-day cleaning services, Berwick Village Jewellers offers the kind of personalised, hands-on service that keeps treasured pieces looking beautiful for years to come. At the heart of Berwick Village Jewellers is a simple belief: jewellery isn’t just something you wear – it’s something you remember. It’s the ring that marks a new beginning, the necklace that celebrates a milestone, or the treasured piece passed down through generations. For more than four decades, Berwick Village Jewellers has been helping locals celebrate life’s special moments, one beautiful piece at a time. Discover the difference of a truly local jeweller at Shop 2, Blackburne Square, Berwick.
Berwick Village Jewellers: Where every piece tells a story - Sylvia, Jen, Michelle and Anthony. (547314)
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14 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 20 August, 2026
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Anthony Gelgec .......................... 137
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The applicant for the permit is:
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The application reference number is:
PA26-0256
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A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme
A permit is required to create, vary or remove a restriction
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The application is for a permit to:
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Jason 1300 644 698
50-51 Malanie Close NARRE WARREN NORTH VIC 3804 Lot 18 LP 206280K
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The land affected by the application is located at:
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You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority.
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You may also call (03 9705 5200) to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Casey City Council. This can be done in office hours and is free of charge.
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If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of its decision.
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Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority. An objection must: • be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au • include the application number and site address • include the reasons for the objection, and • state how the objector would be affected. The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application. The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before:
PLUMBING
Leaking taps Burst pipes Hot water Blocked drains Gas heating Leak detection
Documents can also be viewed on Council’s website or by scanning the QR code. https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/viewplanning-applications
C1101420-JO46-13
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WHAT’S ON Sport grants Council’s Equipment and Training Grants of $100 and up to $1,500 are available to assist community groups to deliver training for their volunteers, to buy essential equipment, and become more inclusive and accessible. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 21 August. Details: https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/equipmenttraining-grants
•
Twisted Science Fun, laughter, a little bit of learning and plenty of Science. For ages 4-plus. Thursday 20 August 4pm-5pm at Cranbourne Library, Casey Complex, 65 BerwickCranbourne Road, Cranbourne; free event. Bookings: https://events.connectedlibraries.org.au/ event?id=243372
•
Breakfast & kick-a-ball Join the Coastal Villages Dads’ Group for a free breakfast and kick-a-ball morning. Catch-up with other dads, father figures and their kids. Have something to eat and then grab a ball to kick around with your child. Friday 21 August 9am-11am at Warneet Recreation Reserve, Rutherford Reserve, Warneet; free event.
•
The Travelling Fruit & Vegetable Show (3-5 years) Through music, puppets, storytelling, and sensory exploration, the event introduces children to a variety of fruits and vegetables in a fun and engaging way. Friday 21 August, 11.30am-12.15pm at Balla Balla Community Centre, 7–9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North. Bookings in person or 5990 0900 between 9am-3pm.
•
Berwick and District Folk Club Bringing together people who love acoustic Music. Featured artist is guitarist Mark Lindsay with support act Peter Szikla and an open stage. Friday 21 August, 7pm (doors open 6.30pm) at Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Rd., Berwick; $15/$10. Details: https://badfolk.org
•
Junior Chess Club Dandenong Chess Club is looking to establish a junior chess club in Endeavour Hills on Saturday mornings. Two-hour sessions with professional coaches and matches with other juniors.
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Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au
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Mens Shed open day Learn about Endeavour Hills Mens Shed with woodworking, music, copper work, free giveaways for kids, face painting. Donations accepted for items on display. Sausage sizzle, soft drinks available. Free tea and coffee. Saturday 22 August, 10am at Endeavour Hills Mens Shed, 289 Power Road, Endeavour Hills. Details: ehms.org.au
•
Book Week Maestro Flipper with Carp Productions presents his Symphony of Stories, bringing Book Week books to life with music. For ages 3-12. Saturday 22 August 2pm at Hampton Park Library, 26 Stuart Ave, Hampton Park; free event. Bookings: https://events.connectedlibraries.org. au/event?id=242868
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The Sari Project Inspired by 100 donated saris, this project explores stories of migration and intercultural exchange between the students of The Social Studio and the women of Kahini. Until Sunday 23 August, (Mon-Fri 9am-9pm, Sat and Sun 10am-4pm) at Bunjil Place Foyer; free event
•
ABC Radio at Bunjil 774 ABC Melbourne is heading to Narre Warren for a series of broadcasts, live from Bunjil Place. Tuesday August 25, Thursday August 27 and Friday August 28 at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren. For times and details: https://www.abc.net.au/ melbourne/774 -at -bunjil/106750570
Join this interactive session to learn about common scams and try to spot them with some fun quizzes. For ages 15-plus. Tuesday 25 August 2pm at Bunjil Place Library, Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings: events.connectedlibraries.org.au/ event?id=243672
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2026 Forum for Men & Fathers For all men in City of Casey. A night of food, meeting new people, and chatting about men’s wellbeing, strong relationships and fatherhood. Hear from our panellists and share your thoughts. Includes free buffet dinner. Tuesday 25 August, 6.45pm-9pm at Bunjil Place, Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings required: https://www.trybooking.com/DLVMW
•
The Offbeat Sari A major exhibition celebrating the contemporary sari from designers, wearers and craftspeople from India. Tuesdays-Sundays until 30 August, (Tues-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat and Sun 10am-4pm) at Bunjil Place Gallery. Register at www.bunjilplace.com. au/events/offbeat-sari
•
4Cs Schools Concert Cultivating Creative Cultures with Communities (4Cs) presents its 20th year of outstanding performances from primary, secondary and community participants. Features educational achievements, multicultural and creative storytelling. Monday 31 August, Tuesday 1 September, Monday 7 September and Monday 14 September, 5.45pm-9pm at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren; $23pp. Bookings: www.bunjilplace.com.au/ events/cultivating-creative-cultures-communities4cs
•
•
Threatened Species Night
Bring Your Bills Day
•
Free expert help with bills, fines, debt, housing. Confidential advice, interpreters available.
Learn about the threatened species in the local area. Catch the train down to the wetlands to visit the threatened Grey-headed flying foxes. Take part in a cake-decorating activity (baking goods provided). Wednesday 2 September, 4.30pm-6.30pm at Myuna Farm, Kidds Road, Doveton; $5. Bookings
Man with a Pram Celebrate Father’s Day with your children and family. Come for fun, kids’ activities, playground and a free sausage sizzle (with halal and vegetarian options). Take your family on the Man with a Pram walk with your pram, stroller, scooter, tricycle, kids’ bicycle or by walking. Orgainsed by the Cranbourne Dads’ Group, the VIC Cobbers father figures’ group, the Clyde North Dad Squad, the Coastal Villages Dads’ Group and The Meetup men’s group. Sunday 6 September, 9.30am-11.30am at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; free event. Registration required: https://www.trybooking.com/DKACU
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Adaptation Game Try TAG – a cooperative climate resilience board game created by the City of Casey. Using maps of hypothetical floods, heatwaves and bushfires, players work together to respond to real-world challenges and explore how communities can prepare and protect their homes and neighbours. No gaming experience required. Monday 7 September, 1pm-2pm at Autumn Place Community Hub, Autumn Place, Doveton; free event. Bookings required: (03) 9792 7382 or autumnplacech@casey.vic.gov.au
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3-D Printed Bookends workshop Design your own components for a personalised set of bookends. Best suited for learners with some 3D printing experience. For ages 15-plus. Monday 7 September, 2pm-4.30pm at Endeavour Hills Library, 10 Raymond McMahon Boulevard, Endeavour Hills; free event. Details: https://events.connectedlibraries.org.au/ event?id=240219
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Trash & Treasure market Grab a bargain and support your local community. Sausage sizzle on site. Held by Cranbourne Village Community Group. Sunday 13 September 9am-3pm at Cranbourne Community Hall, South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne. Stallholder enquiries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590936682597 or cranbournevillagemarket@gmail.com
•
POSITIONS VACANT
ADVERTISERS, in this sec- Find it in the tion are qualified practi- Celebrations tioners and offer non- section of Network Classifieds. sexual services.
TO SHARE
Each month come along to meet and chat with other first-time dads. It can be a great way to ask questions, get some inside tips, and find out that what you are going through is pretty normal. Saturday 22 August, 9.30am-11am at Orana Community Place, 1 Fresco Place, Clyde North; free event. Bookings: https://www.eventbrite. com.au/e/dads-group-community-catch-upcoffee-dads-playground-city-of-casey-tickets1986393678966?aff=odcleoeventsincollection
required: https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1627117
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Tuesday 25 August, 10.30am-3pm at Arthur Wren Hall, 18-20 Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park; free entry. Register at https://bringyourbills.org.au
• First-time Dads catch up
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PROFESSIONAL
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PRINT & DIGITAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE
The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.
Join one of Victoria’s leading independent community media organisations. Star News Group is seeking an enthusiastic, results-driven and customer-focused Print & Digital Sales Representative to join our dynamic sales team. With a proud history of delivering trusted local news across print, digital, newsletters and social media platforms, Star News Group connects businesses with highly engaged audiences throughout Melbourne’s south-east and regional Victoria. About the Role : This is an exciting opportunity to manage an established client portfolio while actively developing new business opportunities across our diverse media platforms. The successful applicant will work with local businesses to create effective advertising campaigns incorporating: • Newspaper advertising • Digital display advertising • Sponsored online content • Email marketing campaigns • Digital Newsletter Key Responsibilities : • Maintain and grow an existing client base. • Identify and secure new business opportunities. • Develop tailored advertising and marketing solutions for clients. • Prepare proposals, presentations and campaign recommendations. • Work collaboratively with editorial, design and digital teams to deliver outstanding client outcomes. About You: You will possess: • Excellent communication, negotiation and presentation skills. • Strong organisational and time management abilities. • A positive attitude and a passion for helping local businesses succeed. • A current driver’s license and reliable vehicle. What We Offer : • An established territory with existing clients. • Competitive salary package including base salary and commission. • Supportive team environment. • The opportunity to work with a respected and trusted community media brand. • If you are passionate about sales, enjoy working within your local community and thrive in a fast-paced media environment, we’d love to hear from you. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au
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Thursday, 20 August, 2026 | STAR NEWS 17
SPORT
Wickers torched by Burners By Justin Schwarze The emotions on either side of four quarters were telling in Berwick’s round 17 loss to Blackburn in the Eastern Premier Division on Saturday. It was a must-win contest for both sides, with the Wickers full of hope and optimism that a victory would bring them one step closer to playing finals for the first time ever in the competition. But after four quarters of footy, in which Berwick was significantly outplayed, the realisation sunk in that now this week’s trip to Vermont will be the last time the Wickers take the field in 2026. The early signs at Morton Park were worrying, with Kai Stewart getting out the back for two runin goals inside the opening nine minutes, before Daniel Wood worked a snap around the post to make it three straight for the hosts. Berwick got a brief response in the form of a Matt Nelson set shot goal, but the Burners continued to ask questions of the Wickers’ backline as Ryley Stoddart flushed one on the run from 50. Toby Wooler then absolutely nailed one on an angle in the pocket and alarm bells were ringing in the Berwick coaching box. Jack Lawrence showed some class with a clean pickup at ground level before finishing with a well-executed snap, but Wooler’s second goal at the other end stemmed any momentum that the Wickers tried to create. Berwick threw a punch to begin the second, nabbing the first two majors through a Caleb Van Oostveen snap and Sam Frangalas walking one home. Stoddart answered with another running finish, backed up by Jackson Carmody slotting a kick from outside 50. The visitors were determined to end the half on a positive note, with Kane Hurst goaling around the corner after an impressive pickup. Tahj De La Rue followed suit, burying a set shot from distance and Hurst made it three for the Wickers in as many minutes with a perfectlyguided shot on a slight angle. Berwick was now rolling and within a kick on the scoreboard at the 21-minute mark of the second. With just minutes remaining till halftime, the Wickers just needed to get into the rooms unscathed and regroup for a big second half push. But Blackburn had other ideas, producing five minutes of blistering football to effectively undo all of Berwick’s hard work to get back into the contest. Carmody split the middle off a step, before the Burners worked it quickly from the back pocket back into the mittens of Carmody on the lead. He made no mistakes for back-to-back goals, and the hosts could smell blood. The ball went back to the middle, where Lachlan Harry tapped it down to himself and won it out of the ruck; kicking it forward to hit Wood on the chest. Wood put it through, but Blackburn wasn’t done. Another centre clearance win saw the ball come straight back into the forward 50, where Stewart marked in the pocket.
Sam Frangalas kicked a second quarter goal for Berwick in the loss to Blackburn. (Rob Carew: 569040) And as his shot from the boundary drifted through the big sticks after the siren, the Burners recognised his effort as he was mobbed in celebration. Berwick, on the other hand, was reeling as it suddenly fell into a five-goal deficit at the main break, 12.5 (77) to 7.5 (47). The hosts soon dealt the knockout blow on the other side of halftime, kicking five of the first six goals in the third to extend their buffer to 48 points.
And they added the finishing touches in red-time of the third, booting three in a row to sit comfortably with a 59-point lead at the final change. The work was done, and the Burners rolled into an imposing 23.10 (148) to 10.20 (80) triumph that all but ended Berwick’s season. Carmody, Stewart and Wooler kicked four goals each for the victorious hosts, while Stoddart and Wood both managed three-major hauls. Hurst was Berwick’s only multiple goalkicker
with a pair, and the efforts of Ben Todd, Matt Nelson and Brown were noteworthy around the ground. Blackburn also ensured it will be appearing in the postseason as it went six points clear of sixth with just one game remaining. It’s a disappointing blow to such a promising season for the Wickers, but with Andrew Williams back on board in 2027 and a young playing group hungry to improve, the club will be encouraged by its prospects for next year.
Demons defeated by Hawks in final hitout of the season By Justin Schwarze A disappointing result in Casey’s final hitout for the VFL season was reflective of the Demons’ 2026 as they were blitzed by Box Hill after quarter time. Two issues that have plagued Casey this season - inaccuracy and fadeouts - were the usual culprits on Sunday. The Demons kicked just two goals from their nine scoring shots in the first quarter, but trailed by only two points at the first change, 3.3 (21) to 2.7 (19) at the City Oval. But it was the only time Casey had a look in, as the Hawks slotted three unanswered goals in the second term while the Demons couldn’t buy one. Four more behinds in the second sunk the visitors to 2.11 (23) at the main break, trailing the hosts 6.5 (41). After halftime, Casey produced the first two scoring shots of the second half, both of which were minor scores, to fall to 2.13.
18 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 20 August, 2026
Box Hill then tucked away the wasteful Demons by piling on five consecutive goals as the lead swelled to near-50 points. The Hawks rode it to finish third on the ladder with the 17.10 (112) to 6.19 (55) victory. Riley Bonner was the lead ball-winner for Casey with 33 disposals and six marks, while Paddy Cross made his case for AFL selection with 19 possessions, four tackles and four clearances. Demons stalwart Jack Viney made his anticipated return, notching 20 touches, seven tackles, 10 clearances and a goal in a standout performance. Jake Melksham was the main target up forward with 3.3 on the afternoon, also putting his hand up for an AFL recall with Melbourne forward Jacob van Rooyen sidelined for the next three games. The loss concluded an underwhelming season for Casey, which finished with a record of 6-12, placing it 19th on the ladder in Rhett McLennan’s first season at the helm.
Jake Melksham kicked three goals in the heavy loss to Box Hill. (Rob Carew: 567651)
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Culture king at Holm Park By David Nagel The ‘Jungle Drums’ were beating strongly and spreading like wildfire about the Beaconsfield Football Club after the 2025 Eastern Division 1 season. At different points - between September and December last year - the Eagles had no senior coach and no president and a crystal ball that painted a gloomy picture of 19 players that pulled on a senior jumper in 2025 not representing the club the following year. Senior coach Mick Fogarty had just led the Eagles to a top-three finish and a double chance although bundled out in straight sets - but pulled the pin for personal reasons after recently resigning with the club. The presidency was also left vacant after the club’s AGM on November 12, when Troy Robinson ended a reign that began in 2016 and sauntered its way through three different leagues changes. And intrigue soon turned to worry when two of the Eagles best players - Jake Aarts and Brandon White - left for Dromana and co-captain Damien Johnston led an exodus to Upper Ferntree Gully that included Ethan Harris, Taelor Reyment and Zack Charles. Cooper Brown returned to Longwarry, and Travis Stewart to Nyora, while the move of Hayden Brough to Kilcunda-Bass had robbed the Eagles of a reliable scoring source. Ryan Williamson made the shortest journey to Berwick, while the transfer of talented trio Lachlan Modica and Trent and Tylah Stokoe to Nar Nar Goon really dug the boots in. And a further 45 games of experience from 2025 would also be taken away with Jack Docherty, Jafar Ocaa and Josh Mounter all playing no senior football this year. A comment on a popular ‘local footy transfer’ chat summed up the feeling perfectly. ”What’s happening at Beaconsfield…the joint looks cooked.” Rumours were flowing freely about what was taking place at Holm Park Reserve; some right and some wrong…but the overall message could not be denied. There’s no way that many players leave a football club if the overall culture is strong. Something was clearly broken and needed to be fixed. One of the last big decisions of Robinson’s tenure was to appoint a replacement for Fogarty, with Nar Nar Goon assistant Scott Kerr being appointed to the senior coaching role in mid-October. Popular local mentor Darren Hamilton was then quickly announced as his assistant. And the ‘Vacant Presidency’ sign would soon be pulled down, with Emma Fergusson - anointed as vice-president at the AGM in November stepping up to fill the void in mid-December. A flat line had been replaced with a heartbeat; and the playing list would soon be bolstered. The tide began to change with Ben Schultze signing from Gembrook-Cockatoo, Billy GerrardKett from Balwyn, while Hayden Brown’s return from Vermont and the signing of untapped basketball potential Jayden Route would add some much-needed depth to the big-man department. But the best ‘feel-good’ story of all; Cooper Shipp was moving across from Tooradin-Dalmore to play with his brother Kobe. The ‘Ins’ were certainly no match for the ‘Outs’, but - after a tumultuous time – Beaconsfield knew the pieces it had in place and had no choice but to move forward. “This year was about creating a culture where people want to stay and play their footy, and never being in a situation where we have that many players leave the club again,” Kerr told Star News after Saturday’s round-18 loss to Montrose. “The message to the players after Saturday was all positive, considering where we’ve come from, people had written us off, and we blooded 17 debutants and used a lot of players this year. “This year was all about opportunity and seeing what the future looked like. “We only won six games, but were in a lot of others throughout the year, lost three by a kick, and were competitive for three quarters in most. “Then the bigger bodies and more experienced teams ran over us. “We had injuries, key players went overseas, and those little things build up over the year. “We finished eighth, but we really think we’re
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JayDe Varlet played a crucial role for Beaconsfield after making his senior debut in round one. (Rob Carew: 562043)
Leo Smith-Clark is an emerging youngster to keep an eye on. (546227) not far away from knocking on the door of finals.” Remarkably, less than 12 months after the bottom had almost fallen out – Beaconsfield has began planning for a highly-competitive push in 2027. Not many clubs would have the grit and determination to turn things around so quickly, with a plethora of young talent showing just how resilient this footy club can be. “We were lucky that we’ve had two years of really strong under-19s coming through,” Kerr explained. “They all stayed, whether that was through the opportunity to play senior footy, or there was a group of guys there that are pretty close and keen to play their footy together. “There were a lot of things up in the air at one stage, but a lot of guys signed up after some key pieces had been put in place. “The club has been resilient and it hasn’t always been easy; but there were always going to be some hurdles when you lose so many players at one time. “We had times in the middle of winter, through injuries and absence, where we struggled to field two teams; but I’m super proud of how resilient the club has been and I think it sets us up well for the future.” Kerr blooded debutants from round one, with Ali Kara, Dylan Vogrig, JayDe Varlet and Leo Smith-Clark all playing in the opening game of the season against North Ringwood. Brock Walker and Jesse Morton would debut
Skipper Jake Bowd led a very young group from the front in 2026. (546227)
from the twos, with Jack Hilton, Nick Riordan, Kayleb Lovett, Jordan Waters, Noah Airdrie, Flynn Maher, Riley Haringsma and Zeke Adams others to make their senior debuts throughout the year. Kara, Morton, Smith-Clark and Varlet were not only tested for future honours; but became key pieces of the puzzle. “Those four players have really stood up and were in our top 18 and top 22 every week,” Kerr said. “It’s all about giving these kids a go and seeing what comes out of it; Jesse Morton had been in the twos for two years, and started there this year, but we blooded him and he ended up being a really valuable part of our forward line. “It’s important to blood the young blokes and make them aware that the opportunity is there if they’re prepared to put in the work; buying in to the culture and doing the training sessions is what it’s all about. “Ali Kara is a great story. He played the first three games and then we sent him back to the 19s; but he was desperate to play senior footy and got stronger, got better, and now we’re playing him through the midfield. “He did that, he earned it by working hard and taking the step from 19s to senior footy and making the most of his chances.” With almost 12 months under his belt, Kerr can now see a clearer picture moving forward. “The season only finished two days ago, but we’ve already been planning about what next season will look like and where we can get some
improvement,” he said. “We need to bring in some recruits, and that’s being worked on behind the scenes, but the current playing group have re-signed, which is awesome, and they’re already excited about next year. “The improvement will come from playing those kids this year and giving them an understanding of the style of footy we want to be playing. “They’re going to be bigger, they’re going to understand what pre-season looks like, and we’ll just get to work in the pre-season. “It’s exciting but daunting at the same time; having so much talent to work with. “The most important thing is they’re hungry, and I actually thanked the guys on the weekend for just being them, for wanting to get better. “Not once did I have to say ‘the numbers have been down at training, where have you been’ they just turn up and get to work and there’s a really good culture that has been developed this year.” Kerr praised a core group of leaders that included Jake Bowd, Ali Zijai, Devon Smith, Hayden Brown, Kobe Shipp, Sam Merrick and Charlie Muley for leading a young team through some challenges and has a clear message for any players thinking about joining his club. “The biggest thing I would sell is the culture; we get to work but we have fun doing it, and that’s a big thing,” he said. “If you’re not enjoying it, not having fun, not getting along with the group; your football standards drop.”
Thursday, 20 August, 2026 | STAR NEWS 19
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20 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 20 August, 2026
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