Thursday, 10 September, 2026
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Soil dump breach
Crime advocate’s plea
Nuke debate heats up
City breaking barriers
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Book magic Clyde Grammar celebrated Book Week with costumes, author visits, musical performances and a whole-school artwork reflecting the theme A Symphony of Stories. Every student contributed a decorated music note expressing their love of reading. Activities included a book fair, rapid retellings, rewritten endings, a Where’s Wally hunt and collaborative storytelling. Meerkat Productions staged book-based musicals, while staff joined the popular parade dressed as Shrek characters, celebrating imagination and printed books across the colourful school community. Full pictures page 13
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$10b price tag By Violet Li New details have been released about the proposed Casey Data Park at 585 Berwick-Cranbourne Road in Clyde North. Developer Galileo Group proposes two data centre buildings on 16.2 hectares of the 53.2-hectare property, reaching a maximum height of 30.5 metres.
The campus would use 720 MVA of capacity from a proposed 1000 MVA terminal station funded by the developer, with the remaining 280 MVA available for future regional demand. The arrangements are still being finalised with VicGrid and AEMO. Galileo plans to use Class A recycled water through a dedicated network, although some drinking water may be required for six to 12
months while the recycled-water infrastructure is completed. Expected daily and annual water consumption has not been disclosed. An acoustic assessment predicts night-time noise of 39 to 41 decibels at the nearest residential area, below the applicable 46-decibel limit. Backup-generator testing would be limited to weekday daytime hours.
Construction is expected to take eight years. Colliers projects 350 direct on-site jobs once operational, plus 570 indirect jobs. The website estimates construction investment of about $10 billion, substantially above the previously reported $1.1 billion figure. The application has yet to be decided. It will be debated at a future Casey Council Meeting. See more details page 3
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Renex to pay $340K for asbestos disposal By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Dandenong South soil treatment plant will pay $340,000 after being found to have twice illegally disposed its asbestos-contaminated waste. Renex Op Co Pty Ltd, based in Ordish Road, is licensed to receive soils containing the potentially-lethal material. But it had admitted to twice failing to take all reasonable steps to ensure the reportable priority waste was transported to a site authorised to receive it. In May 2024, Environment Protection Authority Victoria officers discovered two truckloads of Renex contaminated soil (N120 waste) at Green Sand Recycling at O’Grady Road, Hallam. The soil contained brown and white asbestos. Green Sand was not authorised to accept such waste. In May 2025, the EPA also found Renexsourced stockpiles at an unauthorised site on Tyabb-Tooradin Road, Somerville. Again the stockpile samples tested positive for asbestos. Victorian Supreme Court judge Michelle Quigley stated on 2 September that “the public has the right to expect that those authorised to manage material containing asbestos will deal with it appropriately and take the appropriate steps to protect human health and the environment”. Maximum penalties were more than $1.9 million per breach – or a total near $3.9 million. The EPA submitted for a total penalty of between $400,00 and $750,000 to be paid into a restorative justice fund. Renex argued for a penalty of $50,000 to $75,000 – which Justice Quigley equated to a “floating butterfly” rather than “the sting of a bee”. “The Court needs to be considering a 50 (metre) penalty and not just a free kick,” she stated. The company admitted to several inter-related failures, including not clearly segregating the ‘clean fill’ stockpile and contaminated stockpile, and not having records of where the soils were transported. “At the time Renex relinquished management or control of the soil, it could not know whether the soil dispatched was soil which had been abated and classified as fill material or soil which had not,” Justice Quigley stated. “And having dispatched the soil, (Renex) could not identify the premises to which it had gone. “On each occasion, the controls failed and the
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Soil treatment plant Renex must pay $340,000 into an EPA restorative justice fund. (156696) soil containing asbestos passed out of the regulated stream.” She found the second contravention showed Renex’s “tardiness to address the gaps in the chain of custody processes”. Justice Quigley noted the EPA didn’t argue there was “actual harm” to human health or the environment to remedy. Rather, the penalty was “wholly deterrent”. The EPA also conceded that Renex’s breaches were not deliberate. Justice Quigley noted that if there was actual harm, it would be significant. “There are many recent examples of allegedly clean fill finding its way into the public realm with very significant cleanup consequences. “Whilst there has been no direct harm to human health or the environment, this occurred in part because of the EPA’s vigilance and not through the pre emptive actions of Renex.” In Renex’s favour was its cooperation – albeit “tardy” – as well as its admissions and its lack of prior civil penalties.
The judge set a penalty of $340,000 into a restorative justice fund, and ordered Renex to publish two adverse publicity notices. Renex was also ordered to update its asbestos management procedures and have them verified by an independent professional, and have relevant staff undertake further training. The EPA later described the decision as a “win for the community and reflects the gravity of Renex’s conduct”. However, in a sting to the tale, the EPA was ordered to pay Renex’s $500,000 of its legal costs after the EPA’s interim injunction in the Supreme Court in 2025. “The decision to award costs was due to the conclusion of EPA’s earlier interim order application in these proceedings,” the EPA later stated. “This led to EPA narrowing our focus on key offending after the proceedings had commenced. “The decision to narrow our focus prioritised the best outcome for the community.” Renex was contacted for comment.
Passers-by have allegedly stopped a driver from fleeing a crash scene that left a woman fighting for life in Berwick on Saturday 5 September. Casey Highway Patrol officers are appealing for witnesses and dash cam footage following the multi-vehicle collision on Princes Freeway about 11am. A reportedly erratic driver who was allegedly speeding and weaving a 2025 white Peugeot across lanes, merged into the inbound emergency lane and crashed into a barrier. The Peugeot then struck a nearby Ford Focus, as well as a Mazda CX9, police say. A 72-year-old woman, who was the passenger in the Ford Focus, was transported to hospital with critical injuries. The 83-year-old driver of the Ford, as well as the occupants of the Mazda, were uninjured. Police will allege the driver of the Peugeot, a 34-year-old man, was seen driving erratically in the lead-up to the incident. The man was seen trying to collect his belongings from the damaged car before passers-by stopped him as he attempted to leave the scene, police say. Officers interviewed the Pascoe Vale man, who has since been released pending further enquiries as police investigations continue. Any dash-cam vision of the Peugeot prior to the collision, as well as anyone with vision of the incident are being sought by police. Any CCTV/dash cam vision or information to Crime Stoppers on1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Man, 66, charged after alleged sexual exposures A 66-year-old man has been charged after an investigation into multiple sexual exposure acts at Berwick Springs wetlands reserve in Narre Warren South. Police were investigating the following alleged incidents in the past 10 months: A man allegedly exposed himself twice to a
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woman walking around the reserve on 25 October 2025 about 11am A woman walked past a man sitting on a bench seat at the reserve who allegedly exposed himself on 5 July 2026 about 11am A woman was walking around the reserve and
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a man sitting on a park bench spoke to her before allegedly exposing himself on 21 July about 10.40am None of the women were physically injured, police say. On Friday morning, 4 September, police ex-
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Data centre in detail By Violet Li Developer Galileo Group, who is behind the proposed Clyde North data centre, has released new details about its power connection, recycled-water plans, noise, construction and employment projections. The development has been named as Casey Data Park. Here is what has been disclosed, and what remains unanswered so far. What is being proposed? Two data centre buildings would occupy about 16.2 hectares, or 30 per cent, of the overall 53.2-hectare property. They would sit at the north side of the entire site. About 10 hectares would contain an existing power easement at the southern end. The remaining 27 hectares would accommodate future employment lots, roads, drainage, landscaping and open space. The data centre buildings would reach a maximum height of 30.5 metres. The nearest residentially zoned land is more than 150 metres from the campus, across Thompsons Road, according to Galileo. A strip of future retail and showroom development is planned between Thompsons Road and the campus. The developer says this would partly screen the facility, although the upper sections of the data centre buildings would remain visible from some homes. The developer also says the two data centre buildings are “designed to present well to streets and neighbouring areas: articulated facades in soft, light tones, screening to plant and equipment, and landscaping with substantial tree planting across the campus”. The landscape plan is also designed to meet Casey’s 30 per cent tree canopy target. How much power would it use? The project would require access to 720 MVA of electrical capacity, according to the website. Galileo proposes to fund a new terminal station connected to the existing high-voltage transmission easement crossing the property. The new station would have a total capacity of 1000 MVA, leaving 280 MVA available to expand supply to other businesses and residents as regional demand grows. The developer says the project would pay for the station and its own connection, meaning those infrastructure costs would not be recovered from other electricity users through network charges. It also says the existing transmission lines on the site mean new high-voltage lines would not have to be built through surrounding streets. However, these arrangements are still being finalised with VicGrid and the Australian Energy Market Operator. Galileo’s statement that the project would not increase household electricity bills because of its funding of the new terminal station. “The project connects into the high-voltage
transmission network, not the local distribution network that supplies homes: it is not drawing on the same wires that connect to your house,” the developer states. “New network capacity of this kind is normally paid for through the network charges that all electricity users pay. Because the project will fund this (new terminal) station, that cost is not recovered from other users through those charges.” The website does not disclose the campus’s expected average power demand or annual electricity consumption. MVA measures the capacity of an electrical connection and is not the same as the amount of electricity consumed over a year. The planning approval would also require the project to commit to a pathway towards net-zero operational emissions by 2045, according to Galileo. The website does not detail how electricity would be procured or how much would come from renewable sources. Would it use drinking water? Galileo says it is working with water authorities to secure Class A recycled water from the Eastern Treatment Plant in Carrum Downs. The recycled water would reach the site through a dedicated supply network separate from the mains system providing drinking water to homes. A request has been made to South East Water, and some upgrades to the recycled-water network are likely to be needed. The developer expects the site would need some potable water while those upgrade works are completed, with that transitional period currently estimated at six to 12 months. Galileo says the site would still be ramping up during that time, meaning its water requirements would increase progresssively rather than beginning at full operational demand. The developer says most of the water would be consumed in the cooling process. Water would be recirculated through the cooling system multiple times. Some would be lost through evaporation, while the concentrated remainder would be discharged to the sewer as trade waste and returned to the treatment plant. The developer says trade waste would not enter stormwater drains or local waterways. Rainwater capture, drought-tolerant landscaping and further measures to reduce consumption are also proposed. However, the website does not disclose the facility’s expected daily or annual water use, its maximum potable-water requirement, evaporation losses or trade-waste volumes. The recycled-water servicing arrangement also remains subject to approval by the relevant water authorities. How noisy would it be? An acoustic assessment predicts the completed site would produce between 39 and 41 decibels at the nearest residential area at night. Galileo says the EPA night-time noise limit at
Architectural render of the view from the south east. (Galileo) those homes is 46 decibels and that their modelling shows the site meets this limit at every assessed home, at every time of day. Proposed noise controls include rooftop screening, enclosed plant rooms and the equipment selection. Backup generators would be installed to keep the campus operating during electricity outages, and they would be tested on a strict schedule: between 9am and 4pm on weekdays, with no more than two generators running at any one time. Testing would not occur at night or on weekends. The generators would also have acoustic enclosures and exhaust silencers. The EPA is a referral authority for the application, and Galileo expects noise monitoring to form part of any permit conditions. What about construction and traffic? Galileo estimates the campus would be built in stages over eight years. Separate bulk earthworks have been approved by Casey Council under a separate planning permit and are likely to start on site in September 2026. Those works include filling, compaction and the installation of services across the broader property. It is not data centre construction works. A traffic impact assessment has been lodged with the data centre planning application. Galileo says future construction management plans would set routes, hours, and controls for heavy vehicles. The website does not provide projected truck numbers, proposed routes or detailed construction hours. Once operational, the developer expects relatively limited traffic because several hundred employees would work in shifts across a 24-hour period instead of arriving during one peak period. How many jobs would it create? A commissioned economic assessment estimates an average of 1350 direct construction jobs each year during the eight-year build. Jobs would involve design professionals (architects, engineers, etc.), electricians, mechanical trades, and concreters. It also projects an average of about 5500 direct and indirect jobs annually during construction. Once fully operational, the campus is project-
ed to support 350 direct jobs on site and another 570 indirect jobs in the wider economy. The direct jobs are expected to include electrical and mechanical technicians, IT specialists, security, cleaners, managers, cleaners and facilities staff. The indirect jobs would include mechanical serving and maintenance, IT contractors, transport, catering, cafes, and training and skills providers. Galileo says local workers and businesses would be “best placed to benefit here”. They point out that at the 2021 Census, only about 30 per cent of Casey residents worked within the municipality, and the Casey Data Park would provide well paid ongoing professional job opportunities directly accessible by Casey residents. However, the website does not announce a binding local-employment or local-procurement target. The website says detailed skills and community programs for this project will be developed and announced as the project moves through detailed design. Programs will be published on this website as they are confirmed. Is it a $1.1 billion or $10 billion project? The data centre application has previously been publicly described as a development worth up to $1.1 billion. However, the newly launched website estimates about $10 billion would be invested in construction over the eight-year program, excluding the cost of IT fit-out. The website does not explain the substantial difference between the two figures. Can residents have a say? The application is exempt from statutory public notification and third-party review rights under the planning provisions applying to the property. Galileo points out that the broader Croskell Precinct Structure Plan underwent public exhibition before it was approved in March 2026. However, that consultation concerned the wider employment precinct rather than the detailed data centre application subsequently lodged for the site. Galileo says its website and community engagement during the detailed-design stage represent its commitment to keeping residents informed. A form has been provided on the website for community members to submit questions directly to the project team. Casey councillors will decide the application at a future public council meeting after it was “called in” because of its significant community interest. Council officers are assessing the proposal and have sought additional information, as well as advice from the EPA and relevant electricity and water authorities. No decision has been made. To visit the website: caseydatapark.com. au/#home
Data centre concerns coming up before Senate By Violet Li Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association has warned a Senate inquiry that hyperscale data centres could affect nearby neighbourhoods and contribute to higher household power bills. CRRA has lodged a submission with the Federal Parliament’s Senate inquiry into artificial intelligence and data centres, using the Clyde North proposal at 585 Berwick-Cranbourne Road as a case study. The application, lodged in April, covers about 41 hectares of developable employment land within the newly approved Croskell Employment Precinct. The application is exempt from statutory public notice and third-party review requirements. CRRA president Anthony Tassone said the potential impacts on people living near major data centres must be given proper weight in the planning process. “Noise, lighting, traffic, visual impact, heat, emissions and years of staged construction are not abstract planning issues. They can directly affect the people who live nearby,” he said. “If communities are being asked to host infrastructure of this scale for decades, they deserve to know what the impacts will be before a decision is made, not after.”
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The submission argues potential issues associated with hyperscale data centres are particularly relevant to the assessment of the Clyde North proposal because of its proximity to homes, an early learning centre, and future residential and commercial developments. CRRA does not claim all those effects will necessarily occur at the site. CRRA argues that minimum national separation requirements should be introduced between hyperscale data centres and sensitive sites such as homes, schools and childcare centres. It also wants emergency services consulted where facilities involve significant battery storage or on-site fuel reserves. The submission states that CRRA does not yet know what battery or fuel arrangements are proposed for Clyde North because the relevant application material is not publicly available. CRRA also raises the broader risk that rapid growth in electricity demand from data centres could increase wholesale electricity prices if it was not supported by additional renewable generation and storage. It cites modelling prepared by Baringa for the Clean Energy Finance Corporation indicating average wholesale electricity prices
across the National Electricity Market could rise by more than 20 per cent by 2035 if data centre demand is not matched by additional renewable generation and storage. The modelling projects the increase could reach 23 per cent in Victoria. Wholesale electricity costs account for about 40 per cent of a typical residential power bill, according to the submission. CRRA also calls for independently verified information about each project’s electricity and water requirements before approval. Australian water utilities have reportedly received inquiries from individual data centres seeking up to 40 million litres of water a day, equivalent to the daily consumption of about 70,000 to 80,000 homes. The submission has not publicly identified the proposed Clyde North facility’s expected electricity or water consumption, as the information is not public. Mr Tassone said communities deserved to understand the trade-off between water and electricity use created by different cooling systems. The association also wants large data centres to enter community benefit agreements and make infrastructure contributions proportionate to their resource demands.
“A billion-dollar price tag doesn’t automatically mean a billion-dollar benefit for the community hosting it,” Mr Tassone said. “If a development consumes significant land, electricity, water and infrastructure capacity, governments need to ask a simple question: what is the net benefit for the community being asked to host it?” CRRA has offered to appear before the Senate committee to give evidence about the Clyde North community’s experience. The Clyde North data centre proposal will be decided at a future Casey Council Meeting.
Clarification Last week, Star News reported that Casey councillors had rejected a call to allow households to opt out of the purple-lidded glass-bin service. As a clarification, Casey Council says councillors did not have the power to offer an opt-out, as part of the Victorian Government’s mandated waste reforms.
Thursday, 10 September, 2026 | STAR NEWS 3
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Janine Greening, pictured in 2016, has been an advocate for victims of crime for more than two decades. (Stewart Chambers: 150802)
Crime policies ‘not working’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells After 26 years of campaigning, victims-of-crime advocate Janine Greening says ‘tough on crime’ pledges by political parties don’t get to the root of the problem. Ahead of the November state election, the Casey resident and founder of Forget Me Not Foundation says she’s still fighting for justice reform. She was cast in the public sphere 26 years ago when her 73-year-old mother was viciously raped and killed by two teenage boys at home. They have since been released from custody. Ms Greening says she doesn’t “hate” the perpetrators - “I don’t want them to have that power over me”. But to this day, she is not allowed to name the now-adult perpetrators of the heinous crime. Under legacy suppression orders, their identities are protected for life, even if they re-offend. The orders can only be lifted by an order of a
court or tribunal. She says she wants to give voice to “hundreds” of frustrated victim-survivors who suffer in silence, while registered sex offenders and young violent offenders have their names suppressed. “It’s like all of these youth offenders go out and assault people, and then they’re back on the streets. “You give them one chance and if they do it again, they should be named.” She told of a schoolboy who suffered a permanent brain injury after being beaten by a group of youths in a stolen car. “We saw all of those offenders get out. That’s what I worry about. Why do we protect them all the time? “It was not just an assault. It was a vicious assault. If you’re attacking someone, you should be locked up.” Ms Greening says the major parties’ ‘tough on crime’ policies don’t go to the root of the problem.
In response to youth crime, she calls for early intervention. To identify at-risk kids by age 10. By 14 or 15, it’s too late, she says. “The problem is we’ve got to get people to be part of the community. “If you can even stop three out of 10 going back into the system, that’s three less offending.” Law Institute of Victoria chief executive Adam Awty said the institute had cautioned against ‘tough on crime’ policies. “Research has consistently shown that punitive sentencing does not work to deter crime or keep the community safe. “Early and lengthy imprisonment disrupts protective factors and significantly increases the likelihood that a person will be further entrenched in the criminal justice system, which causes long lasting harm to the community.” In recent weeks, political parties have released election policies that are ‘tough on crime’. The Liberal-Nationals Coalition has pitched for a new criminal court of appeal with specialist
judges. Their brief would be to ensure bail decisions and sentences for serious crime match public expectations. One Nation has reportedly pitched for a panel of legal experts and citizens to examine whether sentences fit the crimes. Repeat ‘soft’ judges would be disciplined. The State Labor Government has also introduced what it claims are the nation’s toughest bail laws, as well as ‘adult time for violent crime’ reforms for juveniles. In contrast, the Greens would invest in “preventing crime in the first place” with publichealth-led crisis outreach, housing and mental health support. Matthew Kirwan, the Greens candidate for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region, said research found that harsher and longer sentences are linked to higher rates of reoffending and worse long term outcomes for young people. “Sending more young people to prison only creates better trained and hardened criminals.”
Pakenham teen detained after home invasion By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Pakenham teen has been sentenced at the Victorian County Court after a group’s home invasion, car theft and police pursuit ended in his arrest in Narre Warren this year. Chi Bakari (a pseudonym), who was 17 at the time, and four others arrived at an Ashwood home about 1.30am on 23 March this year. Three of the group, including Bakair, gained entry and stole keys to the victims’ Audi A1. One of the residents was awoken by his barking dog, and he spotted two intruders in the corridor outside his bedroom. The group fled, with a 16-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy using the stolen keys to drive away in the Audi with Bakari. Shortly before 2am, the Audi was seen driving fast on Warrigal Road. It was tracked by police Air Wing in an easterly direction. At 2.20am, police deployed a device to im-
4 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 10 September, 2026
mobilise the car. It continued driving for a short time until abandoned on Princes Highway, Narre Warren. Bakari fled the car and tried to hide in a home’s backyard. His 16-year-old accomplice was bitten by a police dog and taken to Dandenong Hospital under police guard. Bakari made no comment to police. He has been detained since his arrest. Two co-offenders during the home invasion are yet to be identified. In sentencing on 3 September, judge Trevor Wraight noted that at the time Bakari was on a youth supervision order for car theft and attempted robbery. The order had been breached and varied by a children’s court a month before the home invasion. Bakari was also subject to a good behaviour bond for car theft.
He later reported that he’d drank “most of a bottle” of vodka on the day of the offending. Judge Wraight noted there was no violence, property damage, weapon or confrontation during the home invasion. But the event had a “significant psychological impact” on the victim, in seeing two intruders outside his bedroom. The victim stated to the court that he’d had trouble sleeping, and lost his sense of safety in his own home. Now 18, Bakari’s antisocial behaviour intensified after dropping out of Year 11 in 2025. This year, he was stabbed four times to the knee in an attack at a birthday celebration at Lysterfield Lake. He’d also claimed that an infected axe-injury to his leg was accidentally self-inflicted, Judge Wraight noted. He was diagnosed with a mild cannabis use disorder, as well as with a trauma-and-stressor
disorder and ADHD. Judge Wraight said Bakari needed to engage “more meaningfully” with supports to address his mental health and substance use. His rehabilitation prospects were “fair” if he took part in intervention services, but “poor” if he didn’t, according to a psychologist. Bakari had family support, but lacked a prosocial peer group, wasn’t engaged in work or study, and didn’t have a therapeutic relationship, the psychologist found. Judge Wraight took into account Bakari’s youthfulness and his guilty plea to home invasion and theft. But found a non-custodial sentence would be “inappropriate”. Bakari was sentenced to 18 months in a youth justice centre. It includes 164 days in presentence detention. He was disqualified from driving for six months.
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Region’s dangerous highs By Cam Lucadou-Wells More than 380 people in the South East have died from unintended overdoses in a decade – the second-highest in Victoria, according to a health research report. Penington Institute has released its Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2026, declaring a national “crisis” with record levels of unintended drug-induced deaths across Australia. Cocaine and methamphetamine-related deaths were on the rise, as well as harms from emerging drugs such as GHB and ketamine. Meanwhile, unintentional drug-induced deaths neared 2600 across Australia – the first time surpassing 2000. It was the leading cause of death for people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, the report stated. “This is a crisis that reaches every part of Australian society, affecting people across generations, communities and circumstances,” it stated. “Drug use patterns are changing. The harms are increasing. Yet too often, our response remains static.” In Greater Dandenong, 184 died from unintentional drug-induced deaths in 2015-‘24. Many of the fatalities involved multiple substances – the most common being opioids such as heroin (115). The next most common were benzodiazepines (86) and amphetamine-like stimulants such as methylamphetamine (80 - the highest in the state). Meanwhile, Casey recorded 143 (68 in the north, 75 in the south) and Cardinia 56 over the same period. The highest toll was in the Geelong area (202). Per capita, Dandenong’s unintentional overdose deaths (9.1 per 100,000 residents) were significantly lower than Port Phillip (15.6), Yarra (14), Latrobe Valley (12.5), Maribyrnong (12.4) and Frankston (11.5). The per-capita rate in Cardinia was 4.9 per 100,000 residents, Casey North 4.8 and Casey South 3.5. Penington Institute research director Dr Jake Dizard said it was frustrating that there were effective and proven tools to help prevent opioid related deaths. “What we want to see is a huge reduction in preventable overdoses – most, if not all, are preventable.” He says Australia’s response to illicit drugs was “not balanced” – skewed towards curbing supply and demand. Only 2 per cent of the spend was on harm reduction. Naloxone, which can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose, was
available for free under a Commonwealth-funded program but not enough people at-risk were carrying it with them, Dr Dizard said. People using other drugs may be unintentionally exposed to opioids – with heroin being sold as ‘cocaine’ and ‘meth’, he said. They too should also carry naloxone. Opioid pharmacotherapy, such as methadone, can also save lives but people were still finding it hard to access when they need it, he said. The state had just one pill-testing site and one medically-supervised injecting room, he noted. Dr Dizard backed Springvale’s controversial syringe vending machine, which was part of the state’s Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) he described as a “cornerstone of harm reduction effort in Victoria”. “Taking out vending machines (won’t reduce the social issues). It will lead to people using non-sterile equipment.” An important part of saving lives was community education. “We need to make people aware of the risks of using multiple drugs at once. Most of the overdose deaths are poly-drug related – and people may not be aware of the risks.”
Users should also be aware of the “unpredictable” contents in illicit drugs, which may be toxic. They should also not use while alone, he said. Stigmatisation was stifling people from reaching out for help from family, friends, GPs and health workers. “We want to encourage more open conversations. “People who use drugs have bad experiences in the health system, dealing with hospital doctors, GPs and pharmacists. They should be trained to avoid stigmatising their clients.” Nationally, unintentional deaths involving cocaine and amphetamines were at record levels in 2024. According to wastewater testing, cocaine use surged 69.3 per cent in the year to August 2024. An estimated 1 million Australians reported using cocaine in the past 12 months. Greater Dandenong (11) had the second highest number of cocaine-involved unintentional deaths in Victoria. “The drug market is changing, and these figures tell us that our response needs to change with it,” Penington Institute chief executive John Ryan said. “This is an urgent crisis that demands urgent action.”
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Refugee trailblazer’s tale By Sahar Foladi A special book launch of the first Hazara woman to join the Australian defence force was celebrated with the community in Melbourne. Based in South Australia, Kbora Ali co-authored the memoir, First Of Her Kind, with her elder sister Razia Ali. It officially hit the market on 1 September. However, the Saturday 29 August special launch sfocused on celebrating the major milestone, organised by the Ali family along with Dandenong-based Hazara Shamama Organisation. “It’s a no brainer. To be fair she is someone who has worked significantly hard,” President of the association, Dr Zakir Hussain says. “At the same time, it lays the foundation that if given the right opportunities, people from refugee or immigrant backgrounds can significantly achieve better things in life, not just for themselves but also the community. “Our community needs these sorts of events so we can appreciate literacy, reading and writing.” Kbora and her family first fled to Pakistan from the Taliban rule in Afghanistan before they arrived as refugees in Australia. She was only nine. She decided to give back to Australia at a very young age and enlisted for the Australian Army as soon as she turned 18. A decade later, she now serves as a Royal Australian Air Force Flying Officer. Her co-authored memoir shares a story at the crossroads of migration, the impacts of the war, her service journey and multicultural Australia. “I always wanted to lead a life with purpose, especially with this book. Sometimes a book takes you around the world through its pages,” Kbora says. “For many immigrants and refugees, our parents have made so many sacrifices, so I really wanted to highlight how much contribution they’ve made to Australia since they have arrived. “I want to reiterate this book is not only about me, but also a journey of thousands of people who have contributed to this day to the progress of our country.” The compilation of her journaling growing up, as a young girl during her army training days, without any phone, far from family and loved ones proved crucial when Kbora decided it was time to turn it into a book. It was after the fall of Kabul, 15 August 2021,
Razia Ali on the left with Kbora Ali, have co-authored the book, officially launched on 1 September.(Supplied) when the Afghan diaspora around the world felt the blow and the helplessness. “They’re very personal, but I’ve shared it in the book to give other people courage to keep going in their difficult and challenging times. “I have not left anything out, so people can really know me on a deeper level. “Training for the army is difficult especially 10 years ago. But when I completed my training and all the congratulatory messages spilled out, that’s when it hit me, that maybe it’s such a big deal for our community. “For so long a lot of these opportunities weren’t for us.
“This was something new and I thought it’s such a beautiful way to open up a new pathway especially for girls in our community.” They came to Australia in search of safety. So to make the bold decision to join the defence force and potentially go to war, was a tough call for her parents. However, they couldn’t be prouder now of her accomplishments on this path. One of the core and historic memories for the family is when Kbora delivered the national commemorative address at the War Memorial in front of 35,000 people on Anzac Day this year. Her sister, Private Masoma Ali, was proudly
watching on. The address is often delivered by senior leaders. This year it was someone earlier in their career; she stood not just as a member of the ADF but also as the first Hazara female from Afghanistan. The ticketed event also auctioned artworks, with 50 per cent of the proceeds donated to support Kudac organisation in Afghanistan, of which Kbora is ambassador of, supporting education of young girls in Bamyan and Kabul. The book launch raised $20,100 in total, with the other half towards artists whose works were auctioned.
One Nation state leader admits drug use ‘mistakes’ By Nick Wilson, Holly Hales and Melissa Meehan, AAP One Nation’s Victorian state leader has admitted to a past littered with “mistakes,” but insists he has continued to receive support from Pauline Hanson. At a press conference on Tuesday, Warren Pickering admitted to taking speed, ecstasy and marijuana before joining the Australian Defence Force at the age of 28. The 43-year-old former combat engineer also admitted to twice losing his licence for what he described as “low level” drinking offences at age 18 and 20. “The mistakes I made in my 20s hurt people,” he told reporters in Melbourne. “They hurt me. They hurt people I loved and I will live with that forever.” His admissions came after the Australian newspaper published a series of allegations raised by Mr Pickering’s former partner of almost 20 years, Jo Scott. He said the days since the allegations - many of which he denied - were brought to light had been challenging, but he felt supported by his party. “The party has been entirely supportive every step of the way,” he said, confirming that extended to Senator Hanson. Mr Pickering said he disclosed concerns about his former partner when applying to the party but some allegations had only surfaced since. “A lot of these details came out later when it was identified that (Ms Scott) was posting things online publicly,” he said.
6 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 10 September, 2026
Asked how much he had disclosed directly to Senator Hanson, Mr Pickering said the One Nation leader had a full plate. “I make sure the right people at the time are aware of everything they need to be aware of,” he said. Among the allegations raised by Ms Scott was that the pair used drugs, including methamphetamines, in the home they shared with their daughter and her three sons from a previous marriage. Flanked by his supportive stepson and daughter on Tuesday, Mr Pickering denied ever using methamphetamines, or ice, including in the same home as their children, or ever being a drug addict. “(The allegations) are extremely hurtful and
I just hope the public can see through them,” Mr Pickering said. He said he had engaged lawyers to advise on a potential defamation claim but did not state who any suit would target. Mr Pickering said he hoped to provide an example to people looking to turn their lives around, claiming his challenges would be familiar to many. “I’m proud of the man I am today,” he said. His daughter Jhett said the media scrutiny had been difficult for the family. “My father has always been there for us ... at the end of the day, we always came first,” she told reporters. Senator Hanson previously said she was comfortable with Mr Pickering leading the
Victorian branch of the party, despite the claims. “These are allegations that have been put to Warren Pickering and he’s denied those allegations,” she said. Mr Pickering, who is standing for the lower house seat of Pakenham in the November state election, previously ran in the 2022 state election and for the federal Senate in 2025 without success. He had worked in construction and served in the army as a combat engineer and also worked in Queensland’s mining industry before returning to Victoria. Wednesday’s media conference was closely guarded, with reporters from the ABC and the Guardian asked to leave before it began. It continues a trend of the minor party turning select media outlets away. Alliance for Journalists’ Freedom executive director Peter Greste said accessibility was a key part of Australian democracy. “Any politician deciding who gets to scrutinise them is practising censorship, and in a democracy, that’s something we should never accept,” he said in a statement. Nationally, primary support for One Nation stood at 30 per cent, ahead of Labor on 29 per cent, according to a Newspoll published in late August. But the populist party is not polling as well in Victoria. The state coalition was the frontrunner with 31 per cent of the primary vote, according to a separate Newspoll, ahead of the incumbent Labor on 28 per cent and One Nation on 19 per cent.
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Call to open your doors By Violet Li Botanic Ridge foster carer Jessica Purcell says opening her home to children in need has brought both challenges and deeply rewarding moments over almost five years. Ms Purcell became an accredited foster carer after buying her own home, having known someone in foster care while growing up. “I’ve been wanting to be a carer for ages,” she said. “Most kids don’t know that foster care is a thing unless you have a friend or family member in the system.” Since beginning, Ms Purcell has provided emergency, respite, short-term and longer-term care for children ranging from babies to teenagers. Her first placement came with only 24 hours’ notice and involved caring for three brothers. Another child, a teenager who had experienced numerous placements, remained in a child protection worker’s car in Ms Purcell’s driveway for about 90 minutes before feeling ready to enter the house. Ms Purcell said she waited without pressuring her and later gave the teenager a bedroom and space to settle in. “Eventually she came out to say hello,” she recalled. Daily life as a carer can involve school and childcare trips, medical and therapy appointments and meetings with the team managing each child’s care. Ms Purcell said one of the system’s biggest challenges was securing adequate funding for children’s needs. She had sometimes paid for medication and
other expenses while awaiting reimbursement. “Victorian foster carers get the lowest allowance out of the whole of Australia,” she said. “The allowance is not good. It does not cover your basic school uniform, food, and other resources the child needs, like basic medication.” Despite the challenges, Ms Purcell said seeing children successfully reunited with their families was particularly rewarding. “Reunifications are always good to see when they go back to their biological family,” she said. “It’s also sad. There are definitely kids that I miss.” Ms Purcell has a young son of her own and works full-time. She is currently taking a break from placements. She believes fostering can fit around work and parenthood with the right arrangements and agency support. Ahead of Foster Care Week, running from Sunday 13 to Saturday 19 September, she encouraged people who were interested to attend an information session. “Do it is my advice,” she said. “You can always ask questions as you go. “If you find out that you don’t want to or you’re not ready for it, you can stop the process at that stage, but have a go.”
Botanic Ridge foster carer Jessica with her son. (Supplied)
CS. I T I L E PO S N E NS SION S O A M P OM OM C C , R H I T FA G WI N I D LEA Victorian Premier Ben Carroll with Deputy Premier Gabrielle Williams in Parliament recently.
ALP pledge: Hallam and Evans roads widened Labor’s state government has pledged to widen two roads in Casey, if re-elected in November’s election. On 5 September, Premier Ben Carroll declared “better local roads in growing suburbs are my priority”. “We have listened to the community.” He promised $350 million to remove a Hallam Road bottleneck by duplicating the section between Pound Road in Hampton Park and Princes Highway in Hallam. The road would widen from two to four lanes, with upgraded intersections at Centre and Ogrady roads and a cycling and walking path. Meanwhile, the ALP pledged $180 million to widen Evans Road between Thompsons Road and Central Parkway in Cranbourne West. The road would widen from one lane each
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way to up to three each way, improve key intersections and build a cycling and walking path on both sides of the road. The project builds on a $30 million duplication of Evans Road between Duff Street and Central Parkway. A third promise was $60 million to replace a roundabout with traffic lights in Mordialloc and Braeside. Planning for the three upgrades would begin early next year and construction would start next term, the ALP stated. It claims the project was funded from a $2 billion saving on the Suburban Rail Loop and $100 million cut on public service executives. Deputy Premier Gabrielle Williams said only Labor had a plan to improve local roads relied upon by South East “working people”.
(03) 9651 8972 rachelpayne.com.au rachel.payne.mp@parliament.vic.gov.au 12869926-JO22-26
Thursday, 10 September, 2026 | STAR NEWS 7
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Priya Payal, Miss Diamond International Finalist 2026. (Gary Sissons: 575015)
Mum defies the odds By Violet Li Cranbourne local Priya Payal has been named a finalist in the 2026 Miss Diamond International pageant, turning a long-held interest in modelling into a journey of confidence and self-discovery. The 37-year-old will travel to Brisbane in October for the national finals. Unlike many traditional pageants, Miss Diamond International has no height, weight or upper-age restrictions, with contestants also recognised for charity and community work. For Priya, reaching the final carries a deeper meaning after she moved to Australia from Fiji in 2023, leaving her daughter and her family behind to pursue a better future. “My main thing was to find myself. I am from Indian background. It’s really hard to come out from a small island to live at this big city and then try to take part in this pageant,” she said. “When I got married, I was busier into my family life, looking after kids, and a lot of things. “I was not able to fulfill my dream, and no one was there to even just to say, you can just go ahead and do whatever you want to do. “My marriage did not work. I have to go ahead and do something for myself.” Priya began paying for modelling classes while working. “My interest was into modelling and vision, but I never thought I can do it. So, when I came to this country, I just find out this small course thing for the modelling,” she recalled. “I got experience there about the photoshoot and how this industry works. And from there, I did it everything on my own. There was no one to help me out. “I just attended a lot of workshops on my own going far places. Sometimes I get lost because I was not familiar to how to use the maps here. I got lost again and again, but I managed to get a lot of places. “From there, I met a lot of people in this modelling industry. And through that, I think I came at a state that I can communicate with other people, and I planned to take part in this
8 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 10 September, 2026
Priya Payal, Miss Diamond International Finalist 2026. (Gary Sissons: 575015) pageant.” An upsetting experience at a previous pageant in 2024 initially left her questioning whether she belonged in the industry. “I thought maybe I was not capable enough,” she said.
“I was very disheartened. I cried a lot on that, and then I thought, no, just because of these people, what they did to me, I can’t give up this lead. “I just tried another thing and just attended workshops, and then I came to miss Diamond. And Miss Diamond was the place.” Priya recalled that when she first came to Melbourne, she initially stayed with a friend in Hampton Park before moving to Cranbourne, where she had to establish a new life largely on her own. “Two people can’t stay in one small room, so that was the hardest time for me that I have to move out of that house alone,” she said. “One of my friends helped me to get my stuffs here. That day when I came to this house, I did not have any groceries with me. She was the one who helped me to just to get few groceries. “From there, slowly, I just tried to build up things here.” After studying aged care and completing a diploma in community services, she now works as a beauty therapist. As part of her Miss Diamond campaign, Priya is raising money for Save the Children by selling $10 meals on 13 September. She also volunteers at Cranbourne Vinnies twice a week. “I think a lot of things changed in my life because the way I was thinking back home is completely changed,” Priya said. “From being a housewife and motherhood, now I get the opportunity to do a lot of things. “I feel really happy every day, and thank God, every day I’m here, and I have an opportunity to take part in these kind of things.” Priya said her pageant journey was about encouraging women, particularly those from migrant backgrounds, to step beyond expectations and pursue their ambitions. “You should always believe in yourself,” she said. “If you want to do something, step out of your comfort zone. If you have that much faith, I think you should always reach to your goal.
Priya Payal, Miss Diamond International Finalist 2026. (Gary Sissons: 575015) “If you want to do something in life, you should always challenge yourself, and I think you should always move forward. You should stay back from thinking I can’t do this. “Sometimes we feel our English is not that good. Right? But I believe if you just take a step ahead, you can go further. It’s a matter of believing in yourself.”
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Demands for more action By Violet Li The mother of a Cranbourne East Secondary College student is calling for stronger repercussions after her daughter was allegedly assaulted by a group of students inside a school bathroom. The mother said the incident occurred during the final lesson on Friday 14 August, but the family did not learn about it until the following Tuesday. She alleged her daughter had been threatened with violence against herself and her family if she told anyone. “She didn’t say anything over the entire weekend,” the mother said. “I didn’t understand the severity of it until the video was shown to me on the Wednesday, and we went straight down to the police station.” Three videos supplied to Star News show the student inside a bathroom surrounded by a large group of students, several of whom appear to be filming. In part of the footage, the girl is kneeling on the floor while students stand closely around her. She is later seen on the ground as students crowd over her, with at least one appearing to strike her with strong force. Another clip shows her sitting inside a toilet cubicle with her knees drawn up and her hands covering her head. Students enter the cubicle and reach towards her while others watch and record. The footage does not show how the confrontation began. The mother said her daughter had initially been questioned in the schoolyard over claims she had spoken about other students, which she denied. She alleged the students asked her daughter to meet them in the bathroom to talk before surrounding her and ordering her to kneel. Her daughter managed to lock herself in a cubicle at one stage, the mother said, but another student allegedly climbed over an adjoining partition and unlocked the door.
An assault allegedly happened at the Cranbourne East Secondary College on Friday 14 August. (Google Map) The family reported the incident to Cranbourne Police Station. Victoria Police said they were investigating. The mother said some students involved were suspended for between one and five days, but she believed the school’s response had not been strong enough. “How can those kids get away with this, and not being charged for the assault and only suspended for a certain number of days and being allowed back in school?” she said. “There were a few staff members that really gave us that emotional support, which was great, but I had to initiate a meeting with the principal, which was really devastating.”
The mother also alleged students had since entered areas designated for her daughter and followed her towards where her father collected her after school. Despite feeling unsafe, the girl wanted to remain at the school to stay with her friends, her mother said. “She said, ‘Why do I have to be the one to lose my friends and lose out of this situation when in reality they basically win as they’ve gotten rid of me out of the school and they’re not getting any consequences?’” the mother said. “She’s very headstrong… That’s her type of personality.” A Department of Education spokesperson
said Cranbourne East Secondary College worked hard to create a culture in which every student felt safe and supported. “The school takes any occurrence or allegation of unsafe behaviour, including bullying, harassment or misconduct, very seriously,” the spokesperson said. “The school ensures they are thoroughly investigated in line with Department of Education policies and procedures and that appropriate action is taken.” The department said privacy requirements prevented the school from disclosing disciplinary action involving individual students. The school was contacted for comment.
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‘Shows disrespect’: SEMMA By Cam Lucadou-Wells A South East manufacturing peak body has accused Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Minister Melissa Horne of “disrespect” after she skipped the body’s AGM on 3 September. On the same day, Horne visited six manufacturers in Hallam, Dandenong South, Clayton and Bayswater, spruiking the $5 million-plus in state grants shared by the firms. It was just hours before South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance’s ‘night of nights’ at Bunjil Place in Narre Warren. Meanwhile, Liberal South-East Metropolitan Region MP Ann-Marie Hermans and One Nation state leader and candidate Warren Pickering addressed the AGM. In recent years, SEMMA has been outspoken against the government on soaring land tax, payroll tax and WorkCover premiums, as well as energy pricing and security. SEMMA chief executive Honi Walker said Horne had been invited to the AGM and had also recently cancelled an upcoming meeting with SEMMA on 9 September. “We would have liked for her to be here,” Walker said. “I think that shows a disrespect for SMEs (small-to-medium enterprises). “They don’t understand the impacts of their current policies – land tax, WorkCover premiums and payroll tax – that are stifling investment here in Victoria.” Walker said SMEs were the “backbone of our economy”, employing 92 per cent of Victorians, but were “in danger”. “I’ve got members who are closing because they’re being crushed by the red tape and the uncontrollable expenses. “That’s why we’ve been called ‘anywhere but Melbourne’ time and time again. That’s why manufacturing is thinking about leaving Melbourne for other states.” On 3 September, Horne issued a media release boasting of the South East as Australia’s largest manufacturing hub with more than 3800 employers and 75,000 jobs. The six manufacturers that she toured had
South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance president Peter Angelico and chief executive Honi Walker at SEMMA’s AGM. (Rob Carew/SEMMA)
Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Minister Melissa Horne, pictured left, visiting Dandenong Southbased Bar Crusher Boats on 3 September. (Victorian Government) shared more than $5 million in state grants for expanding their facilities and production lines. They had themselves invested nearly $70 million and created 312 new jobs. “There is a great deal to be proud of when it comes to manufacturing in Victoria, especially in Melbourne’s south-east,” Horne stated. “We’re backing these companies to expand in Victoria because it boosts our manufacturing capability, creates hundreds of jobs and cements Melbourne’s south-east as the na-
tion’s manufacturing powerhouse.” The firms included Clayton-based global paint and surface coatings manufacturer PPG, Hallam-based food processing and packaging systems manufacturer TNA. TNA Australia director Nadia Taylor said TNA was strengthening its manufacturing capabilities in Victoria to meet growing global demand. “We look forward to continuing to invest in innovation, advanced manufacturing and local skills, creating opportunities for future job
Nuclear fission between energy expert and One Nation By Cam Lucadou-Wells Sparks have flown between One Nation and an energy expert over its pro-nuclear stance at a manufacturers’ AGM this month. Building a nuclear reactor in the La Trobe Valley would be “bats*** crazy”, Grattan Institute energy & climate change senior fellow Tony Wood told the South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance AGM on 3 September. Soon after, One Nation state leader Warren Pickering told Wood: “Strap in Tony, you’re going to hate me.” After their addresses, the pair conversed in animated fission for at least 10 minutes. It came days after One Nation announced it would repeal Victoria’s prohibition on nuclear energy. It would also seek to retain the Loy Yang A coal-fired power station beyond its 2035 closure date. Wood said Australia was supplying 30 per cent of the world’s uranium, and set to embark on building nuclear submarines as part of Australia’s AUKUS deal. But he said “there are as many unicorns in this world as small, modular nuclear reactors” – perhaps in reference to the federal Coalition’s doomed election pledge last year. “We should not be betting our future on those technologies. There are other things we can do a lot better, a lot faster, if we put our effort into it.” Wood said it was a “pity” that the issue had become “politicised” 25 years ago. The climate-change science should be accepted so that “science, manufacturing and industry” can be unleashed to do something about it. “I’ve got no problem with nuclear energy per se, but the idea that you would be able to build a nuclear power station in the La Trobe Valley and support the workers who have lost their jobs when coal closes is … bats*** crazy. “They won’t be building it within the lifetime of those workers. Because we don’t have any
One Nation state leader Warren Pickering and Liberal South-East Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans at the AGM. (Rob Carew/SEMMA)
Grattan Institute energy and climate change senior fellow Tony Wood addresses the AGM, watched by SEMMA CEO Honi Walker and president Peter Angelico. (Rob Carew/SEMMA) history of nuclear power in this country. “We don’t have any regulation, don’t have any plan, don’t have any technology, don’t have any scientists … to be able to do it.” Pickering said energy was 40 per cent of industry’s expenses. And current energy policy was “punishing ambition”.
10 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 10 September, 2026
“We need to get away from this idea we can change the weather… we’re going to commit economic suicide, we’re going to lose our quality of life.” Yallourn and Loy Yang power stations had deteriorated, he said. This was due to not being given security for the future, and so not investing in facility upgrades. “If we give them that security for decades indefinitely, we can make sure they take care of Victorians’ power needs for that period.” Pickering said it was a “sensible approach” to transition towards a nuclear power source, though Australia didn’t have the technology and innovators yet. “We do know there are advances in thorium nuclear micro-reactor technology … and we want to transition towards that energy source.” Liberal state MP Ann-Marie Hermans said her party would reduce land tax, payroll and emergency services levy, while noting the state’s “skyrocketing” debt. “You guys are being heavily taxed to compensate for a number of mistakes … where money could be spent a lot wiser.”
growth and supporting the long-term strength of Victoria’s manufacturing sector.” Horne also visited Dandenong South bus manufacturer Volgren and boat manufacturer Bar Crusher Boats, as well as Bayswater-based battery storage maker EVO Power. Volgren chief executive Thaigo Deiro said it was expanding to meet growing demand for zero-emission buses across Australia. “Bringing more fabrication in-house increases local content and creates manufacturing jobs in Victoria, while moving our service operation into a larger facility means we can support operators’ fleets long after the bus leaves our factory.” Bar Crusher Boats general manager Sam Holmes said its expansion would increase output, improve efficiency and meet growing demand across Australia and the world. Meanwhile, electronic and software systems integrator Axent was establishing a South East-based Engineering Centre of Excellence. In August, Horne was represented by parliamentary secretary for jobs and industrial relations Dylan Wight at a SEMMA forum on education and skills.
Energy’s climate change challenge By Cam Lucadou-Wells An energy expert has told a South East manufacturers’ forum that Australia was “extraordinarily positioned” on energy supply options to address climate change. Its problem was perhaps it had too many options to choose. Grattan Institute senior fellow Tony Wood told the South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance AGM on 3 September that cheap coal power and off-shore natural gas had traditionally a major impact on the state’s manufacturing industry – but the state was facing a shortage of gas and closure of coal power-stations. However, the state’s pursuit of converting of 2 million Victorian households from gas to electricity was problematic. To convert 300 homes a day would take 35 years, Wood noted. “How many gas plumbers and electricians do you think there are in Victoria? “So we end up with these ideas where politicians think this is all going to be cheap and easy. It was never going to be cheap and it was never going to be easy.” Wood said the cost of Australia not addressing the problem was “many times worse”. He pointed to climate change and coal station emissions. Bushfires and floods’ costs to the federal budget had soared from $6 billion to $16 billion in recent years. And the cost was going “up and up and up”. Wood said coal power stations could not be justified in terms of reliability and affordability. But the challenge was that solar and other renewable power may be cheaper to generate, but this was offset by the costs of transmitting the power to where it was needed “unless it is from your roof”. Wholesale electricity prices were coming down because of an oversupply of electricity while coal power stations were open. However, with Yallourn coal power station set to close, the transition to reliable, affordable renewables was not happening fast enough to keep prices down, Wood said.
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Man with a pram is young Ryan at the event at the Old Cheese Factory, Berwick. (Stewart Chambers: 567161)
Cat and Georgie on the walk.
Hundreds out for dads Linda, Ben, Sarah and Elijah.
By Violet Li More than 500 people gathered at Berwick’s Old Cheese Factory on Father’s Day for Casey’s annual Man With A Pram event. Held on Sunday 6 September, the free celebration brought dads, father figures and families together for a community walk, children’s activities and an opportunity to form new connections. Cranbourne resident and event organiser Sarah Van Dillen said about 480 people had registered, with the final attendance exceeding ex-
pectations. “I think it was just to all come together and show support, particularly for men who may struggle with mental health,” she said. “It was a chance to come out and see other dads and families, get chatting and hopefully make a few mates on the day.” Families walked around the Old Cheese Factory grounds with prams, strollers, scooters and children’s bicycles. The morning also featured a petting zoo, music, a free barbecue, a playground and soft-play
activities, games and bubbles provided by the City of Casey’s playgroup team. A raffle raised more than $200 in support of the Man With A Pram initiative. The event was organised by Casey’s community-led dads’ groups as part of the national Dads Group movement. The national event celebrated its 10th year in 2026, while Casey has participated for the past four years. Ms Van Dillen became involved through her husband, who is a leader of the Coastal Villages
Dads’ Group. She said information about men’s mental-health and support services was also available on the day, helping connect fathers who might otherwise be reluctant to seek assistance. “We just want to reach out to those men who may struggle with their mental health but are too afraid to speak up or find support,” she said. Following positive feedback from families, organisers are already considering ideas for next year’s event.
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Thursday, 10 September, 2026 | STAR NEWS 11
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Lost in ‘complex’ system By Sahar Foladi A Victorian State Parliament inquiry report into the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) has urged several recommendations to improve outcomes for people injured on our roads. The Legal and Social Issues Committee inquired into the TAC’s claims framework and recommended improvements, particularly for those living with complex and life-changing injuries. The inquiry examined key aspects of the TAC scheme, including the claims process, dispute resolution, interactions with medical service providers and how the TAC works alongside other support systems such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme. As a member of the Legal and Social Issues Committee, Libertarian MP, David Limbrick shared to the Parliament how he set up the inquiry was a matter of “sheer luck” after an accident victim visited his office in February. “The inquiry heard how our lives can unravel through no fault of our own at any time. “This report will not end the challenges faced by victims of road accidents, but it offers hope that we can fix the safety net. “For many of them, I know that suffering is not over, and their advocacy will continue to be important. This report is not the end of a process; it is just the beginning. But there will be no more
South Eastern Metropolitan MP David Limbrick initiated the inquiry into TAC claims. suffering in silence,” he said. “I am not here to criticise individuals at the TAC, who do difficult jobs and help many people, but I am here to say that all of us need to be held accountable and all of us need to remember who we serve.
“The heroes are here in the gallery and those who came before the committee. “So many of them have amazing stories of perseverance. “None of this could have happened without their advocacy, lobbying, or openness.”
The inquiry found people with complex injuries had difficulty navigating the “complex” TAC system. For people with straightforward claims, the system generally works well. But for those with most severe injuries, they face great administrative burdens at their most vulnerable time. The Chair of the Committee, Joe McCracken recommended an improvement of communication to build trust and ensure people can understand their entitlements and supports available. An establishment of a Client Advisory Board or a similar system is recommended by the committee to ensure TAC clients are “directly reflected in future decision-making and service improvements.” “The Committee urges all participants in the TAC scheme to keep the needs of injured Victorians at the centre of their decision-making.” The inquiry also examined concerns raised about medical service fees. While the TAC sets reimbursement rates and regularly reviews them, medical service providers are able to charge above those rates, leaving some injured Victorians with out-of-pocket expenses. Mr McCracken said the report’s recommendations are intended to strengthen the TAC’s client-centred approach and improve outcomes for Victorians recovering from transport-related injuries.
Community highlights Clyde rail for investment
Nika Suwarsih, centre, with GYMHA CEO Jude Ediae, Dr John Bellavance, Nika’s husband Utanto Pikmawan, state MP Lee Talarmis, SisterWorks colleagues Malay So and Tatiana Boniface. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 577428)
South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Lee Tarlamis, centre, accepts his doctorate from John Bellavance and GYMHA CEO Jude Ediae. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 577428)
Chiseche Dirorimwe, centre, accepts her sister Nkandu Beltz’s doctorate, with Dr John Bellavance and state MP Lee Tarlamis. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 577428)
Indonesian dancers in the presentation room at Parliament House, Melbourne. (Cam LucadouWells: 577428)
Doctors in the House: Sth East leaders gain international honours South East leaders have been recognised in an international awards ceremony at Parliament House, Melbourne on Friday 4 September. SisterWorks chief executive Nika Suwarsih and Labor state MP Lee Tarlamis OAM were presented honorary doctorates in the Oxford Australia Leadership Awards 2026. The global awards, run by The Royal Club UK, celebrate leadership, innovation, business success and community impact. The ceremony was hosted by Jude Ediae, the founder and CEO of the Melbourne-based Global Youth Mental Health Awareness (GYMHA). Ms Suwarsih received an Honorary Doctorate in Creative Arts for her impact on the lives of women and families. Her 20-plus years of community service and advocacy include leading SisterWorks’ Dandenong Empowerment Hub, as well as the Indonesian Women’s Friendship Network Victoria Australia. Her citation paid tribute to her “pioneering programs” in counselling, employment support,
12 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 10 September, 2026
GYMHA CEO Jude Ediae. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 577428) training and creative arts that uplifted hundreds of migrant women, refugees and families. “Her enduring commitment as a community organiser, event manager, and multicultural leader has fostered inclusion, creativity, and resilience—transforming the Greater Dandenong region and setting new standards for multicultural engagement across Australia,” the citation stated. Mr Tarlamis, who has represented the South Eastern Metropolitan Region for 10 years, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Humanity for his community service.
His key priorities were ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all, and championing diversity. “Looking ahead, Lee envisions Victoria as the brain of the nation. Leading globally in climate and energy policies while advancing social justice, economic reform and democratic values.” Other awardees included Perth-based mining leader Nkandu Beltz , whose award was accepted by her Clyde North sister Chiseche Dirorimwe. Melbourne-based awardees also included lawyer, sport and multicultural advocate Molina Swarup Asthana, migrant and refugee advocacy leader Mohammed Yassin, financial data analyst Hemayet Hossain and climate resilience leader Nitin Gupta. Tanzanian-based petroleum procurement director Joyce Mwita Gachuma, Universal Peace Federation Australia vice-president Dr John Bellavance, Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) Australia national president Anne Bellavance, and Perth-based healer and psychologist Pearl Proud were also bestowed honours.
Casey residents have ranked the long-awaited Clyde Rail Link as their top infrastructure priority following four months of Casey Council’s community engagement. The proposed project would extend the Cranbourne railway line through Cranbourne East and Casey Fields to Clyde, connecting some of the fastest-growing suburbs to the metropolitan rail network. The finding came from the City of Casey’s Building a Better Casey advocacy campaign ahead of the November State Election. Between March and July, the council presented 56 projects and initiatives across three priority areas: better transport and roads, community infrastructure, and safe and thriving communities. Residents shared their views at 12 pop-up sessions across Casey and through an online survey. Homelessness and housing affordability ranked as the community’s second-highest priority, followed by the Clyde Road corridor upgrade, bus network improvements and maintenance of roads not managed by the council. Feedback also highlighted calls for improved transport connections, reduced congestion, better rail and bus services, and long-term infrastructure planning to support Casey’s growing population. Residents also sought greater support for people experiencing housing stress, food insecurity and mental health challenges. City of Casey Mayor Cr Michelle Crowther acknowledged that transport and roads continue to be a key priority for the community and thanked community members for taking the time to provide feedback. “Community feedback will help Council build a strong evidence base, that will support our advocacy to government for future funding and investment. Council is also utilising this feedback to inform our future planning, and guide where investment is needed most in the community,” she said. “From fixing potholes and maintaining existing roads to securing the new roads and improved public transport needed to support Casey’s growth. “Our residents deserve safe, well-maintained roads and better connections, and Council will continue to advocate for the funding and action needed to address the backlog and improve the road network across Casey.” Residents are encouraged to continue to have their say and help the advocacy campaign through Casey Conversations. To view the campaign, visit: conversations. casey.vic.gov.au/bettercasey
berwicknews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Lachlan and Alexis.
Ms Waugh and Mrs Fredes.
Miss Lesiuk, Mrs Narayan, Ms Mastroianni. (Stewart Chambers: 571862)
Miss Evans and Yr 3’s.
Hitting the right notes Favourite book characters came to life, stories were reimagined and the whole school helped create a collaborative artwork as Clyde Grammar celebrated Book Week and this year’s theme, A Symphony of Stories. At the heart of the celebrations was Our School Story Symphony – Every Story Adds a Note, a whole- school artwork created by every student at Clyde Grammar. Students used symbols, drawings and words on music-note templates to share their favourite book characters and capture how books make them feel. The individual contributions were then brought together to create one representation of the school’s shared love of reading and storytelling. Other activities included a book fair, retelling a book in 30 seconds, changing book endings, bringing your favourite book to school, drawing book covers on memory alone, and
Pass the Story where each student contributed a sentence to create a very unique story. Author Idan Ben-Barak visited Year 2 students to discuss some of his hilarious books, and all students joined a Where’s Wally? hunt to find staff dressed as Where’s Wally characters hidden throughout the school. Meerkat Productions visited the school to perform musicals adapted from books using original songs, puppets, sets and costumes. Foundation to Year 2 students enjoyed an adaptation of the picture book Dear Broccoli, while Years 3-6 were treated to a musical version of the graphic novel Inked. Library Technician Krystal Theobald says the group artwork is a wonderful collaborative effort and will be displayed on the Library’s gallery wall. “Each student created a quaver, with each year level represented by a colour of the rainbow to complete the display,” she said.
Kiaan, Ms Edwards, Anna. Mrs Theobald said Book Week is a timely celebration of the importance of books, the creativity they represent and how they inspire us. She said the much-loved dress-up parade was again a huge success, with students and families passionately displaying their love of lit-
erature and its many characters. “Families support our students’ interests by helping them dress as a character they love,” she said. “The Foundation families in particular go to lots of trouble for their child’s first Book Week. “This year many of the staff joined in too and dressed as characters from Shrek!” Clyde Grammar Principal Leanne Evans says Book Week is one of the year’s most loved events. She said reading is not only a critical life skill, but something that can spark imagination, emotion and learning. “Connecting to physical books fosters imagination in children,” she said. “In the digital age, the experience of reading printed pages is an important part of learning and childhood that we need to keep alive. “I always find it heartwarming to see our students’ passion for books.”
BUSINESS PROFILE
The basics matter ADVERTORIAL September 8th marks International Literacy Day, an annual celebration to remind us of the importance of literacy for creating a better society. As a teacher and mother of four children, I love events such as these that highlight the irreplaceable value of education. Reading and writing are something most of us assume our children will learn at school. But unfortunately, this is not the case. One in four children in Victoria cannot read. NAPLAN results don’t lie, and they show that literacy outcomes for Victorian students continue to be a concern for parents and schools. Up to four in ten Victorian students are struggling with basic grammar and punctuation. How is this even possible in a state that calls itself the Education State? It is our duty to equip our future generations with the knowledge they need to go out into the world and thrive. But we are failing. Under this Labor Government, four in ten people will not have the critical literacy skills they need to thrive.
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That is why the Liberals and Nationals have announced their Literacy and Numeracy Guarantee, which is a commitment to lift outcomes for our children. The Guarantee will establish: * A target of a 15% increase in proficiency over 10 years across NAPLAN domains * A long-term goal of 90% proficiency in literacy and numeracy. And how will we do this? By backing our teachers. We will expand professional learning, to include targeted best practice programs in phonics, explicit teaching, and classroom behaviour management. We will also review Victoria’s curriculum to declutter it and focus on what’s important. International Literacy Day is more than a celebration - it is a reminder to policymakers that we have the responsibility to ensure the best possible literacy outcomes for our children. And the Liberals and Nationals are ready to do just that.
International Literacy Day September 8th. ■ Ann-Marie Hermans MP ■ Liberal State Member for South Eastern Met-
ropolitan Region ■ Authorised by Ann-Marie Hermans MP, 1/31 Princes Hwy, Dandenong VIC 3175
Thursday, 10 September, 2026 | STAR NEWS 13
NEWS
‘Monster’ phone tower By Cam Lucadou-Wells Dandenong North residents are fighting a proposed “monster” 36-metre phone-tower set to loom over Tirhatuan Wetlands. The Vodafone/Optus 5G tower site has been staked out with pink ribbons on a Melbourne Water-owned flood plain ‘across the border’ in Rowville, within the City of Knox. It is about 50 metres north of Dandenong Creek, as well as near a riparian woodland, marsh and dam teeming with frogs and birdlife. Just 200 metres away, residents on Surrey Road, Dandenong North say it’s one of the area’s “last real green spaces”. Their views across the wetlands and the Dandenong Ranges would also be forever tainted, they say. In less than a week, Melissa Karakasidis has gathered 400-plus signatures on an online petition. In that time, more than 60 formal objections were sent to Knox Council. She says she moved to the area to “be in Nature”, and that none of her neighbours want the tower. The wetlands host threatened species such as the migratory Latham’s Snipe, blue-billed duck, Australasian shoveller and eastern great egret, she says. The engangered fish, the Dwarf Galaxias, and the threatened Growling Grass Frog also live in the creek and its environs. Karakasidis says despite the project’s heft, only residents on her side of Surrey Road received mail-out notifications from Knox. Residents on the other side of the street had been “left in the dark”. She says residents were also initially misled by the site’s “vague” advertised address, given as 5 Police Road – the home of Rowville Lakes Golf Course clubhouse. That’s about 600 metres further north of the actual tower site. “It was a neighbour who caught onto the real location. Then I thought you’ve got to be kidding!” Karakasidis says. “Clearly no one wants it here. I’ve already got ‘five bars’ on my phone – so this tower doesn’t help me at all.
An aerial view of the proposed tower site bounded by a dam (top), marsh (left), Dandenong Creek (below) and Stud Road (right). (Town planning report)
Residents in Tirhatuan Wetlands reserve oppose a proposed 36-metre-tall phone tower in the clearing behind them. (Derek Yates) “There’s so much other infrastructure – tack (the telecoms) onto that.” Greater Dandenong Environment Group, which conducts water-watch and bird surveys each month at the site, fears the tower and construction works will impact wildlife. Spokesperson Isabelle Nash says the area hosts the “special” water-bird Latham’s Snipe, which migrates from Japan every year. “We don’t want it disturbed. There’s not a lot of spaces here for it to come back to. “There’s a lot of birdlife here that are vital for biodiversity. We want it to stay as natural as possible.” In a letter to Knox, Deputy Premier and Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams – in support of residents - wrote that the wetlands were a “highly valued community asset”. “Residents strongly believe that alternative lo-
cations should be explored to avoid adverse impacts on this important environmental and community precinct.” Greens upper-house candidate Matthew Kirwan called on the State Government to put a stop to the “completely inappropriate” development. “Melbourne Water is at it again. “Four years ago trying to flog off land in the Dandenong floodplain for a cemetery - now allowing an application for a nine-storey high mobile phone tower looking over one of the most treasured parts of nature in metropolitan Melbourne. “It’s not a monopole - it is 12 metres wide at the base as well. It’s a monster.” According to the proponent’s application, the chosen site was the only one out of 13 sites that was suitable. “There is no suitable co-location option and
no interest from any other landowners or no other suitable candidates that may have been offered as host.” However, Melbourne Water was willing to enter into an agreement for the site, subject to planning approval from Knox and conditions to address flood risks. The proponent argued that the tower would have a visual “presence” but existing tall trees provided “some screening”. The “vacant and undeveloped” flood plain is subject to an environmental significance overlay site of biological significance. But the site was sparsely vegetated, so of little detriment to the two threatened ecological communities, 48 threatened species and 11 migratory species in the wetlands. The proponent argued that the tower was needed due to the “increasing demands” on existing mobile telecommunications services. Additional capacity was required, including for emergency services. A Knox Council spokesperson stated that due to the number of objections, the application was likely to be considered at a future council meeting. “When Council receives objections from 50 or more separate properties, a Planning Consultative Committee Meeting is normally convened.” This could involve an informal meeting of a council representative, the proponent and objectors.
Hampton Park student takes out top honours A Hampton Park Secondary College student has been recognised on the national stage after taking out the 2026 Outback Writers Festival Secondary School Short Story Competition. Ethan Manning was named the winner of the national competition, which gives secondary school students from across Australia the chance to showcase their creative writing. The annual Outback Writers Festival runs literary events and writing competitions, with its secondary school contest offering cash prizes and opportunities for students’ work to be published in the festival anthology. Ethan’s winning story, The Time Travelling Opal Hunter, follows 12-year-old Eli, who discovers a mysterious radio that transports him to different places across Australia. His search for opal soon becomes a journey of discovery about the country’s landscapes, culture and the importance of respecting the land.
For Ethan, the win follows years of writing stories and entering competitions as he continued to develop his skills as a young author. The school said the national recognition was particularly meaningful because Ethan’s work had been judged against submissions from young writers across the country. “Ethan’s success serves as an inspiration to aspiring writers throughout the college, demonstrating the rewards that can come from perseverance, creativity, and a willingness to put one’s work forward for consideration,” the school states. “His achievement highlights the importance of pursuing personal passions and embracing opportunities to share talents with a wider audience.” Ethan also received a cash prize for winning the competition, although he has not yet decided what he will spend the money on.
Ethan Manning was named the winner of the 2026 Outback Writers Festival Secondary School Short Story Competition. (Supplied)
14 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 10 September, 2026
Dogs can be trained for rally and agility courses. (Gary Sissons: 535601)
Dog obedience club holds open day Southern Obedience Dog Club, based in Bangholme, is opening its doors for visitors and their pets in an open day this month. Dogs of all sizes and on-leash are welcome, with the club’s expert instructors available to advise how to keep pets at heel. Club secretary Maree Brann, who owns a Jack Russell and a Cairn terrier, says many owners don’t know what to do if their pet is aggressive. She says the club’s volunteer instructors can help them take control. “Our owners will help them quite firmly to control their dog, to make sure they’re using their voice the right way. “They’ve got to be the master, not the slave.”
The 65-year-old club, at its peak, was heaving with 1000 members. It’s dropped to about 450, possibly due to cost-of-living pressures. Brann says the club’s annual memberships are built for a tight budget. They include free 24/7 access to the club’s large enclosed paddocks, as well as a chance to meet other dogs for play dates. On its open day, the club will hold demonstrations in obedience as well as the agility and rally obstacle courses. The open day is on Sunday 13 September, 9.30am-1.30pm at 56 Soden Road, Bangholme. Details: www.facebook.com/SouthernObedienceDogClub
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Say cheese! Connected Libraries is calling on photographers across the community to pick up their cameras and help capture the people, places and buildings that make the City of Casey unique. Photographs submitted through the competition will become part of the Connected Libraries Local History Archive and may be used in future local history projects, helping preserve a snapshot of Casey for years to come. “Casey is changing rapidly. Photographs of the places and community life we see around us today will form an important historical record in the future,” Connected Libraries Local History manager Helen Stitt said. “Together the entries will tell the story of our community. “You don’t need to be a professional photographer to take part. We’re looking for interesting perspectives and photographs that help document the Casey we know today.”
Connected Libraries chief executive officer Beth Luppino said libraries play an important role in preserving and sharing local stories. “Our local history collection helps us understand where we have come from and how our community has changed. This competition gives everyone the chance to contribute to that story and create something that could be enjoyed by generations to come,” she said. Photographers are encouraged to get creative and explore Casey with fresh eyes. The competition is open to adults and youth (under 18), with prizes awarded in both age categories. Entrants must be Connected Libraires members. For competition details, entry information and terms and conditions, visit: connectedlibraries.org.au/photocompetition
Di Hall - Star News Group Senior Account Executive presents Matt Ketteringham from Barry Plant Berwick the 1st prize.
Congratulations to our Tipstars winners Congratulations to Matt Ketteringham from Barry Plant Berwick, who took out 1st Prize in our Tipstars Competition, winning a fantastic 2-night stay at Atura! Congratulations also to Kip Homewood from South East Orthodontists, our 2nd Prize winner, who received a $250 gift voucher to spend at Berwick Village Jewellers. A big thank you to everyone who took part, and congratulations to our deserving winners!
Kip Homewood from South East Orthodontists, 2nd Prize winner. Helen Stitt, a Local History team leader with last year’s winning photos. (Stewart Chambers: 576284)
12898967-KF37-26
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Thursday, 10 September, 2026 | STAR NEWS 15
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WHAT’S ON Berwick Farmers Market A no craft market – only farm fresh fruit and veggies, open range ethical eggs, honey, baked goods, artisan breads, vegetable seedlings, ethically raised meats, jams and preserves, dairy, wine, nuts, ready to eat goods. Saturday 12 September, 8am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; gold coin entry.
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Community Day Opening of Orana Village Shopping Centre with family-friendly fun, including face painting, balloon twisting, Paw Patrol visit, henna artist, petting zoo, spin and win wheel. Saturday 12 September 10am-1pm at 195 Riverland Road, Clyde.
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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
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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 14 September, 5.45pm-9pm at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren; $23pp. Bookings: www. bunjilplace.com.au/events/cultivating-creativecultures-communities-4cs
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Family Fun Night Come along and bring a neighbour or two to our family-friendly neighbours’ evening. Free sausage sizzle (halal options available), Bolani and kid’s activities. All welcome. Thursday 17 September, 4pm-6pm at Autumn Place Community Hub, Autumn Place, Doveton; free event. No bookings required.
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Multicultural Family Day Fun activities, face painting, stalls and food, entertainment and community celebration. Saturday 19 September, 10.30am-1.30pm at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre,
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Face painting, kids’ activities, live music, stalls from local creators including children’s book author and candle maker. Saturday, September 19, 12pm-2pm at Silo Park, A Livvi’s Place all-abilities inclusive playground, Cavern Blvd, Clyde North; free event. RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/fivefarms-fair-tickets-1999444237538?aff=oddtdtcr eator&lid=bmfjw2d090oi&uid=0050568E33421 ED7B3FAA4DE074300DE
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Doveton Show A day of family fun. Thrill and family rides, food and market stalls, animal shows, kids activities and showbags. Sunday 20 September, 10am-4pm at Myuna Farm, 182 Kidds Road, Doveton.
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AFL fun day For all dads, grandfathers, father figures and their children (under 7 years of age). Join the Clyde North Dad Squad for a morning of AFL footy fun. Kick a ball, score a goal with your child, and meet other local father figures. Sunday 20 September, 10am-12pm at Orana Park Playground, 1 Fresco Pl, Clyde North; free event. Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/ DLFXM
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Spring into Art Primary school children can explore different art techniques, experiment with a variety of materials and let their creativity shine. All materials provided. Tuesday 22 September, 10am-11am at Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris St, Lynbrook; $10. Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/DNNFS
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U3A Cranbourne Open Day Meet tutors, group leaders and members, view all of our beautiful work and learn about the fun activities that we enjoy on and off the premises. Refreshments provided. Friday 2 October, 10am-1.30pm at Cranbourne U3A, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East; free event. No bookings required. Details: admin@ u3acranbourne.org.au or 0493 991 919.
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Spring Orchid Show
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Berwick Orchid Club’s annual show features Australian and exotic orchid displays, as well as growing advice, and orchids, growing accessories and light refreshments for sale. Saturday 26 September and Sunday 27 September, 9am-4pm at 112 High Street, Berwick; $5/$3.
Enjoy gentle seated movement with a physiotherapist, practical everyday tips from an occupational therapist, an informal Health & Wellbeing Hub offering non-clinical information and advice, and the opportunity to meet new people over complimentary morning tea and light refreshments. For ages 55 and over. Friday 2 October, 10am-2pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Blvd, Cranbourne West; free event. Bookings essential: info@caringheartsinhomehelp.com.au or 5993 5999.
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Gathered in Clyde market Clyde’s first community market is coming. 100plus local makers, food trucks and unique finds. Family-friendly fun for everyone. Sunday 27 September, 9am-2pm at Eliston District Park Playground, Clyde; free entry. Details: https://www.facebook.com/gatheredinclyde
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Night Safari – Moths and Spiders Come along on a night safari and discover the moths, spiders and other nocturnal insects in bushland. Photograph and record the insects you find for the 2026 Biodiversity Blitz. For all ages and experience. Children need to be supervised by parent/guardian at all times. Run by Entomological Society of Victoria and The Arachnid Academy. Tuesday 29 September, 7pm-10pm at Morning Mist Recreation Reserve, 45 Langley Road, Cranbourne South; free entry. Bookings required at www.eventbrite.com.au/e/night-safari-mothsand-spiders-tickets-1996424901623?aff=odcle oeventsincollection
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Zine-making workshop for teens Create your own zine (pronounced zeen) - a small self-published book or mini magazine that can be about poetry, art, music, books, gaming, fashion, your favourite fandom, latest obsession or anything in between. For ages 13-17. All materials provided. Friday 2 October 2pm at Hampton Park Library, 26 Stuart Ave, Hampton Park; free event. Bookings: https://events.connectedlibraries.org.au/ event?id=242369
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Art of Conversation: Blind Bight For older adults to connect, share stories and build new friendships. Meaningful conversations guided by experienced facilitators. Morning tea provided. Saturday 3 October, 9am-12.30pm at Blind Bight Community Centre, Anchorage Drive, Blind Bight; free event. Bookings required at cindy@ kintsugiheroes.com.au
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Little Chefs
Tamil Musical and Dance Concert
Learn easy, tasty recipes, explore new flavours and make delicious dishes to take home. Suitable for primary-school ages. Parents and siblings welcome to join. Thursday 1 October 11am-12pm at Autumn Place Community Hub, Autumn Place, Doveton; free event. Bookings required:
Tamil music and dance items staged by professional artists. Morning tea and special Tamil traditional lunch served. Saturday 3 October, 10.30am-1.30pm at Berwick Senior Citizens Centre, 112 High Street, Berwick; $10. Bookings required by 1 October: info@ caseytamilmanram.org.au or 0491 149 113.
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POSITIONS VACANT CABINET MAKER Full-time position for experienced cabinet maker.
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
LABOURER Full-time or part-time position for labourer. Cabinet making experience would be an advantage. Location- Keysborough Please email resume to: alp3824@bigpond.net.au
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Celebrate traditional mid-autumn festival with expert chef, Lillie Giang, the Food Affectionist, as she creates delightful pastries with sweet or savoury fillings. For ages 16-plus. Saturday 19 September, 11am-12pm at Endeavour Hills Library, 10 Raymond McMahon Boulevard; free event. Details: https://events.connectedlibraries.org.au/event?id=228173
Kids paint their own pot, plant a seedling, and take it home in this fun, hands-on workshop. Suitable for primary school ages, with parents and siblings welcome. Thursday 24 September, 11am-12pm at Autumn Place Community Hub, Autumn Place, Doveton; free event. Bookings required: https:// www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1597309 Details: 9792 7382 or autumnplacech@casey.vic. gov.au
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Mooncake Masterclass
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Announce your special occasion • Birthday Greetings • Congratulations • Welcome Baby • Newlyweds • Happy Anniversary
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Thursday, 10 September, 2026 | STAR NEWS 17
SPORT
Narre Warren out of tickets By Blair Burns Narre Warren’s season has come to an abrupt end after the Magpies were outclassed by reigning premier Cheltenham in the first semi-final on Sunday, 14.10 (94) to 10.6 (66). After finishing second on the ladder, the Magpies went out in straight sets with defeats against Bentleigh (58 points) and Cheltenham (28 points). With the win, the Rosellas set up a Southern Division 1 preliminary final date with Bentleigh after the Demons were thumped by Dingley by 102 points in Saturday’s second semi-final. The Rosellas had lost the previous two encounters against Narre Warren during the regular season, but rose to the occasion when it mattered most. The loss also brings to a close the tenure of Narre Warren legend and premiership coach Steve Kidd. Emotions were high following the final siren, with both Kidd and the playing group grappling with feelings of disappointment mixed with pride. “Myself and a few of the players were overcome with emotions after the game, but that is what happens when you pour so much into something and don’t get the result you are after,” Kidd said. “I guess the reality is that we aren’t quite ready or good enough at this stage and we came up against a really experienced team which outworked us in the end. “We’ve taken steps forward and I think the playing group just needs to go through a bit of pain and learning, it will hold them in good stead.” Narre Warren was without Callum Porter (away), Jimmy Dwyer (shoulder), Julian Goerlitz (finger), Kurt Mutimer (hamstring), Ben Giobbi (back) and Declan Brown to name a few. Porter was arguably the biggest out after dominating when he took the field, with a broken collarbone also sidelining him for a number of games. The former VFL star played 12 games for the year, missing four matches for his collarbone, as well as the final four games of the year (two of those finals) - the team lost three of the four. “Cal did tell us early when he signed that he would be overseas for a wedding, so we knew we would be without him for a few weeks,” Kidd said. “Obviously Tommy Miller didn’t play the first half of the year and we got him back from injury, so we sort of hoped that would go some way to covering Cal. “We also brought Ben in and hoped he could fill a bit of a hole left by Cal as well, but his body didn’t allow him to play much footy or either final. “But with Julian set to come back, we still felt like we’d be okay, so when he went down with the finger injury last week, that took the wind out of our sails a little bit.” Sunday was also the last time that Kidd will coach the side, set to take a break from coaching. “It was a little bit hard to get my words out to
Narre Warren defender Trent Papworth worked hard on Sunday, but it wasn’t enough. (Gary Sissons: 574924) the players after the game … it was certainly a tough one to take,” he said. “For it to end like that without winning a final was a bit disappointing, but I look back at it and I don’t think there was much more that myself and the other coaches could’ve done. “So you also walk away proud of the effort that we put in throughout the year, and over the last couple of years.” The black and white got off to a good start with an impressive first term which saw them have eight scoring shots to one. At quarter time of the semi-final at RSEA Park, it was Narre Warren who held a strong 23-6 lead. Luca Pascuzzi was on fire in the opening term, kicking two of the three goals with a classy set shot and then a nice snap after getting back inside to straighten up the angle. Jake Richardson kicked the team’s third late in the quarter after a strong mark and easily converted set shot, putting the side up 17 points. Tom Miller was huge in the opening term, winning clearance after clearance and getting dangerous inside 50 to set up some scoring opportunities for his team. But despite its dominance, Narre Warren had left the door ajar with some inaccurate kicking in front of goal. “The boys came out full of run and played
exactly the way we wanted them to play, which was taking the game on a bit, and I thought we did that,” Kidd said. “We changed angles really well and hit our targets, we were clean and the pressure was excellent.” Cheltenham responded better in the second quarter and it was game on, but the Magpies were up for the challenge. Despite losing Kurt Mutimer to a hamstring injury last week against Bentleigh, the midfield was getting the job done. Despite the Rosellas kicking three goals in the second quarter, the Magpies kicked four straight and had extended their lead when the half-time siren sounded. But Cheltenham lifted after the main break, with its stars Jack Lonie, Sean Lai and Austin Johnson all getting their hands on the footy. A four-goal-to-one third quarter saw the Rosellas take a one-point lead as the sides turned for the final stretch, with the Rosellas leading 5554. The Magpies looked out of gas, and they were. They’d been worn down and without the midfield depth to cover them, stars like Miller and Ethan Kennedy were out of tickets. The last quarter was a one-sided affair and saw the reigning premiers extend their lead and
six goals to two, running away with a comfortable 28-point victory, which didn’t quite tell the story of the first three quarters. Johnson (four goals) and Lai (three goals) were the fire-starters for the victors, while Daniel Vaughan and Lonie were clinical. For the Magpies, youngster Braydon Deville led the way up forward with two goals, while Will Howe and Pascuzzi also bagged two majors. Kennedy was at his best once again, while Miller and Jesse Davies left it all out there for their side. In the other semi-final on Saturday, it was Dingley who sent a bolt of fear across every other team in the league with a 102-point win over Bentleigh, 21.18 (144) to 6.6 (42). Lachlan Benton kicked five goals for the Dingoes in a best-on-ground performance, while the side had four other players kick two goals or more. Dingley kicked the first eight goals of the match, with five in the first term before picking up where they left off in the second. At half time, it was a huge advantage to Dingley as it led 10.3 (63) to 3.5 (23). But the second half got ugly for the Demons as the Dingoes put them to the sword, kicking 11.15 to just 3.1, including the last five majors of the match. If Dingley kicked straighter in the second half, the margin could’ve been even greater. The preliminary final is set between Bentleigh and Cheltenham as the ladder-leading Dingoes wait in the big dance. Narre Warren’s reserves won through to the grand final over the weekend, while the Division 1 Under-19s fell short in the semi-final, set to take the field this weekend in a preliminary final. Cranbourne won through to the grand final in the Division 2 Under-19s. • SOUTHERN DIVISION 1 NARRE WARREN 3.5 7.5 8.6 10.6 (66) CHELTENHAM 1.0 4.3 8.7 4.10 (94) Narre Warren Goals: Braydon Deville, Will Howe, Luca Pascuzzi 2, Aaron Firrito, Jett Kearney, Jake Richardson, Tom Toner. Best: Ethan Kennedy, Luca Pascuzzi, Jesse Davies, Tom Miller, Jake Richardson, Jett Kearney. Cheltenham Goals: Austin Johnson 4, Sean Lai 3, Alec McComb, Ben McDonell 2, Tom Davis, Luke Garnaut, Finn Ryan. Best: Daniel Vaughan, Sean Lai, Jack Lonie, Luke Verma, Harrison Edwards, Austin Johnson. • SOUTHERN DIVISION 2 After going undefeated throughout the Southern Division 2 regular season, Mordialloc crumbled in the first final with a loss against East Malvern, but the Bloods redeemed themselves in the preliminary final to defeat Highett and book a spot in the grand final, once again meeting the Panthers. Mordialloc bounced back to defeat Highett in the preliminary final at Springvale Reserve on Saturday, winning 12.8 (80) to 7.8 (50). Jack Eastwood and Adam McGarry slotted three goals each for the Bloods as they claimed a crucial victory.
Rampaging Magpies first to take flight to grand final By Blair Burns Narre Warren has secured a spot in the A Grade grand final in the South East Precinct Netball League (SEPNL) with a 49-34 triumph over Beaconsfield. The Magpies made the move across from the Southern League at the conclusion of last season after a heartbreaking preliminary final exit. The new-look Magpies are out for redemption this season and after booking a spot in the grand final, they are well on their way to achieving that. Narre Warren was bolstered by the inclusion of Grace Ioleu, while Mercy delivered another dominant performance in the goal circle, netting 34 goals. It was a strong performance from the black and white as they reaffirmed themselves as flag favourites. Hampton Park ended Berwick’s season with a brilliant four-quarter performance, winning 59-31. The Redbacks have been in strong form in
18 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 10 September, 2026
the second half of the season and will get the chance to play off for a spot in the grand final when they take on Beaconsfield this weekend. Emily Pupuke has been one of the most damaging shooters in the league this season and produced again with 37 goals, but it was her partner in crime who was the major difference. Audrey Tuipala stood up and scored 21 goals in one of her best games of the season, helping the Redbacks to victory. For the Wickers, Mackenzie Holland (19 goals) and Chloey Dodds (12 goals) worked hard in the attacking third, but it wasn’t enough as their season came to a close. SEPNL - SEMI-FINALS B GRADE: Narre Warren 43 def Beaconsfield 37, Hampton Park 40 def Cardinia Tigers 31. C GRADE: Hampton Park 38 def Narre Warren 17, Beaconsfield 35 def Berwick 24. D GRADE: Hampton Park 24 def Beaconsfield 23, Narre Warren 26 def Berwick 19. A Grade Fixture: Preliminary Final - Beaconsfield v Hampton Park at Kalora Park 3:05pm.
Narre Warren star Mercy Ioelu helped her side through to the grand final. (Rob Carew: 560616)
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SPORT
Group 1 glory to triple M’s By David Nagel It’s no surprise - given his affable nature - that popular south-east jockey Jamie Mott has strong connections with most people in the racing hubs of Cranbourne, Mornington and Pakenham. But his history with Mornington trainer John McArdle almost brought him to tears after the pair combined to win the $750,000 Group 1 Moir Stakes (1000m) with My Gladiola on Saturday. The three M’s - McArdle, Mott and My Gladiola – had previously twice run second at Group 1 level, both times to mighty sprinter Tentyris; in the 2025 Coolmore Stud Stakes and this year’s Lightning Stakes at Flemington in mid-February. This time around there was no Tentyris to contend with, although horses such as Natural Fling, Giga Kick and Cavalry Girl were all shorter in the market and expected to make their presence felt. Mott sat comfortably off the expected hot speed of Cavalry Girl and Natural Fling; before getting busy at the 300. Mott stuck inside the two leaders, drawing level with Cavalry Girl with 100-metres left to run before powering away to a half-length win on the line. My Gladiola had traversed the 1000-metre trip at Sandown in 57.22; elevating herself alongside Mott and McArdle, who have multiple times experienced the thrill of Group 1 glory. “I’m actually really emotional; just to do it for John (McArdle) is just unbelievable,” Mott explained post-race. “He’s had a Group 1 winner in the past and he’s loyal to me as a jockey, and I’ve loved working closely with him and his team, Brent, Colin, everyone at his stable. “Obviously with her coming along, she’s been so special. “She was yet to tick off that Group 1, but we knew she was good enough. “I’m absolutely over the moon. “My fifth Group I and I haven’t been this emotional; so it’s pretty special.” My Gladiola was almost scratched on Saturday, with the forecast of heavy rain and a deteriorating track being considered more of a hindrance than help. “John was really concerned with the track, but I had three walks of the track,” Mott said. “I actually didn’t get to exactly where I wanted to, but I was happy enough that it wasn’t too bad for her and she was going to cope with it.
Trainer John McArdle and jockey Jamie Mott celebrate their long association and the victory of My Gladiola in Saturday’s Group 1 Moir Stakes (1000m) at Sandown. (Pat Scala/Racing Photos: 576840) “Her first-up; she’s dynamic and she’s a proper 1000-metre Group 1 sprinter. “I’ve led on her in the past, let her go, and it didn’t work, and I think that’s why she’s so good at the 1000, because she can have that speed. “She does get strong, but she’s still kind of relaxes at the same time. “Whereas, obviously, when we go further, she can get a little bit too strong because her tempo’s not there. “I’m just so proud and so happy for John and all his connections.” McArdle was thrilled with the win; but admitted his mare was close to not running. “Thank God I second guessed myself a little bit,” he said. “We were thinking about scratching and thankfully they put it up as a (soft) seven. “If it had been an (heavy) eight we may not have been here. “Things went her way today; the wind and the sun dried the track out a bit and Jamie (Mott) gave
her a great ride. “Getting a good barrier we didn’t have to go as far back as we normally do and she’s got the job done. “She has run against the best her entire career. “We ran second to Tentyris a couple of times; it was incredible times and she was deserving of this. “I didn’t think it was going to be today, but I did before the rains came…all the team at home have done a great job with her.” McArdle said sharing the stage with Mott made the victory all the more special. “Motty has been our stable rider for a long time,” he said. “When he was getting a couple of rides in the bush, we were putting him on in Group races with Humma Humma. “I always said, ‘you stick with me, I’ll stick with you’ and we have. “We’ve been close plenty of times and now we’ve done it.”
Jockey Jamie Mott lets out a roar as My Gladiola adds Group 1 winner to her status in the Moir Stakes. (Scott Barbour/Racing Photos: 576840) The win of My Gladiola was timely, in more ways than one, with the final two races on the Sandown program postponed; due to lightning strikes and a heavy thunderstorm that engulfed the south-east region.
Hollywood finish for City as Berwick breaks through barrier Berwick City Soccer Club will return to State League 1 for the first time since 2016 after securing a dramatic final day promotion that Hollywood scriptwriters would have been proud of. City travelled to Warragul on Saturday knowing a win against Gippsland United would secure a top-three position and promotion, but had Waverley Wanderers and Noble Park Drina waiting to capitalise on any slip-up at Baxter Park. Despite taking on a Brandon Park side that was chasing a win to secure it the State League 2 title, Waverley shot out to a 3-0 lead by half time of its match before romping to a 6-0 success. Simultaneous final-day kick offs meant that with scores remaining deadlocked at 0-0 at half time in Warragul, Berwick was outside of the promotion slots with 45 minutes to play. Enter Tanner Kidwell, who scored within a minute of the resumption, and Jalil Nabizadah, who doubled the lead in the 66th. Gippsland set-up a nerve-wracking finish when Bayden Heusmann found the back of the net in the 72nd minute, only for Kidwell to ice the 3-1 result with his second goal with six minutes remaining on the clock. Berwick City is the focus of the ambitious Breaking Barriers documentary that was announced at the start of 2026. Dubbed Australia’s version of Welcome To Wrexham, Berwick was identified by media production agency Bruce as the ideal club to feature in the series which is aiming to get the club promoted all the way to the A-League…Australia’s professional soccer competition. The documentary - which had five introductory episodes air on football360.com.au in Feb-
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Berwick City celebrates promotion to State League 1 after a dramatic final-day victory over Gippsland United. (Bruce Media: 576922) ruary/March ahead of the full Season 1 launch this October - has brought unprecedented interest to the club. Berwick has attracted record crowds to home games and secured club-high levels of sponsorship. After starting the season with a 2-0 home
loss to Brandon Park, promotion was far from the focus by Round 10 as Berwick went into the mid-season break with a 4-2-4 record and a long way off the league’s pace-setters. But a sterling second-half turnaround, which saw the club lose just one of its last 12 games, set-up a blockbuster finish.
In the final four rounds the Tony Lettiericoached side defeated eventual champions Knox City 1-0 at home, secured a come-frombehind 2-2 draw at local rivals Casey Comets and then leapfrogged Waverley into third with a 2-0 win at Jack Thomas Reserve in the penultimate round. Lettieri said promotion was a reward for the hard work of so many across the club. “I’m just so proud of the boys,” Lettieri said. “It would have been easy for us to panic after the first half, but I was happy at half time. “The conditions were tricky, but I thought, with the wind at our backs in the second half, things would turn for us - and they did. “To see everyone so excited on the pitch after the game, that’s what we do this for. “And not just us, everyone - Tim (Hobson) the president, the rest of the committee and all our volunteers - they work so hard. “So to get this result, I’m very happy.” The final day had added tinges of Hollywood added to it, with more than half of the squad caught up in traffic bedlam after the Monash Freeway shut down just before lunch on Saturday. It resulted in many of the squad arriving to the ground some 30-45 minutes later than planned. Add in the day’s storms and the prospect of nearby lightning interrupting the game and the day had all the drama ingredients it needed - inclusive of a boisterous group of about 250 Berwick City supporters travelling down the highway. - Matt Windley
Thursday, 10 September, 2026 | STAR NEWS 19
Thursday the 17th September 2026, 11am to 3pm
Cranbourne Bowling Club 5 Grant Street, Cranbourne VIC hqjgoldexchange.com.au 12883619-AD36-26
20 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 10 September, 2026
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