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Youth-led belonging
Lights on the lake
U3A open day
Firing up for finals
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SPORT
Diwali season Hampton Park families celebrated Diwali at the Casey Diwali Market, held at Arthur Wren Hall on Saturday October 10. Presented by Saathi Multicultural Association of Australia with City of Casey support, the free festival featured Indian food, sweets, clothing, jewellery, decorations and gift stalls. Children enjoyed animal pat-a-pet, face painting, balloon twisting and cartoon character appearances, as the event brought the community together to celebrate culture and diversity. Full pictures page 12
Hemali Makada with items from her business Heirloom House by Vaarso. A 500-year-old craft from her hometown Mandvi-Kutch. (Rob Carew: 582224)
Overdose alarm By Jensy Callimootoo Calls are growing for stronger drug support services a ross Casey and Victoria as rising overdose deaths put renewed focus on how best to prevent fatalities and support people experiencing addiction. 27 fatal overdoses were recorded in Casey in 2025, making it Victoria’s fourth-highest municipality for overdose deaths. Statewide fatalities
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also climbed by more than seven per cent over the same period, intensifying pressure on political leaders to strengthen drug-related services. Independent Narre Warren South candidate Scott Watson supports harm reduction measures, including needle and syringe programs, but says they must be combined with efforts to address the causes of addiction and prevent relapse. Drawing on his experience in policing and drug
safety, Watson is also advocating for a structured recovery program built around peer mentoring and ongoing support. Meanwhile, Greens South-Eastern candidate Matthew Kirwan has backed expanding medically supervised injecting rooms where health experts identify a need, alongside greater community awareness of existing services. The candidates’ approaches reflect a broader
debate over how best to respond to a crisis affecting communities across the south-east, from immediate overdose prevention to the housing, mental health and social challenges that can contribute to substance dependence. With overdose deaths continuing to rise, the question facing local and state leaders is how to turn calls for action into meaningful change. For more on this story, go to page 3
NEWS
Youngsters show the way By Cam Lucadou-Wells ‘Belonging’ was more than a buzz-word, as families, students and staff packed a community hall for the Belonging in Casey Awards on Friday 9 October. Young and old sang together and mixed excitedly with Casey’s mayor and councillors at Nikola Tesla Serbian Cultural Centre in Doveton. The project was launched in schools this year to give young people a voice on the vexed topic of cultural inclusion. A massive 2147 Prep-Year 12 students across 17 schools responded with a colourful, thoughtful array of creative artworks and reflections. The project was the initiative of Casey Multifaith Network and Dr Jamel Kaur Singh from CQ Cultural Education Institute. They are looking to build on its success in 2027, Dr Singh said. Coral Park Primary School was awarded for submitting works from 100 per cent of its 380 students. Assistant principal Liz Wilson said one of the most powerful things of Belonging in Casey was hearing their “incredibly diverse” students. “For some students, it was about celebrating where they came from. “For others, it was about recognising the people who make them feel safe and connected. “And for many, it was simply the opportunity to stop and think about what belonging actually feels like.” Belonging was “what we want every child to experience when they walk through our gates”, Wilson said. “Our students began to recognise that belonging isn’t just about feeling that you fit in— it is also about what we can do to make sure that other people feel that they belong too.” Other awardees included Hampton Park Secondary College Year 12 students, Emmanuel Jr Lacomel, Saaliha Innaaya Khan and Nayab Nawrozi, who pitched practical ways to strengthen unity, youth participation and social connection. Their proposal has attracted interest from City of Casey’s youth services. “This demonstrates that young people can meaningfully contribute to conversations about their community’s future,” Dr Singh said. “The awards … were about giving young people a voice, celebrating their efforts and reminding them that their ideas matter.” The awards dinner was supported by generous businesses, community groups and volunteers who contributed prizes, food, the venue as well as hours of support. Year 3-4 category winners were Ezrah Thomson (Coral Park Primary School), Aadya Prabhu (Maramba Primary School) and Karim Khadimullin (Brentwood Primary School). Other winners were St Paul Apostle North Primary School prep red and blue students, and Hampton Park Secondary College students Raihana Rezaie (Year 7-9 category) and Monson Silili (Year 10-12).
Dr Jamel Kaur Singh, with Hampton Park Secondary College’s year 12 students Saaliha Innaaya Khan, Monson Silili and cultural diversity coordinator Sally Carruthers. (Cam Lucadou-Wells)
Ezrah Thomson of Coral Park Primary School with his winning entry.
Year 3 awardee Karim Khadmiullin of Brentwood Primary School.
An award-winning entry from St Paul Apostle North Primary School prep students.
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Parliament rally heats up By Violet Li Volunteers from five south east CFA stations met at Officer BP Service Station before travelling together to Melbourne for a rally outside Parliament House on Friday 9 October. They are calling for safer firefighting vehicles and the removal of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) levy, which was introduced last year. Some volunteers had started their day before dawn to make the trip. Wairewa Fire Station captain Jadon Dennis said he was up at 2.30am after getting about three hours’ sleep, and they had driven around four hours to Officer BP. Ageing tankers were a major concern. Jadon said one of his brigade’s trucks was 33 years old. “They’re not fit for purpose anymore. There’s no aircon. We’re sitting between a silver foil blanket and 1,100 degrees of fire heat in a burn over situation,” he said. “There’s no crew cab, so we can only fit three in the front of the cabin. We have to put the rest of our crew members on the back deck. We can’t see them when there’s a burn over situation. It’s a danger.” Jadon said older trucks were often moved from metropolitan areas to regional brigades, where they could remain in service well beyond their intended lifespan. He said CFA vehicles were generally expected to serve for about 18 to 25 years.
CFA Volunteer Group’s fleet analysis has identified approximately 835 frontline CFA appliances beyond their nominal service life, including approximately 690 tankers and 145 pumpers. On 8 October, the State Government has promised 150 new fire trucks to enter the frontline if elected in the November State Election. It is said to cover 50 new Fire Rescue Vehicle (FRV) trucks, 50 new CFA pumpers and pumper-tankers, and 50 new CFA tankers. They also revealed that they will commit to making sure no FRV truck is operating beyond its service life of 15 years by 2035. “Never happened,” Jadon said when asked what he thought of the new promise. “That wouldn’t even keep up with what’s needed to be replaced. Let alone these old trucks. “Standard situation, election promise before election.” Erica brigade captain Russell Wright said his brigade had been seeking a new tanker for 16 years. Its truck, made in 1995, was 32 years old, according to him. “I’ll believe him (Premier Ben Carroll) when I see it,” Russell said of the promise to deliver new fire trucks. Russell said he was concerned that the new ESVF levy placed a heavier burden on farmers and landholders. He said as a firefighter, he could not claim a rebate because of the business and property he owned. “If you’re going to have a tax, it has to be fair
Volunteers from five south east CFA stations met at Officer BP Service Station before travelling together to Melbourne for a rally outside Parliament House on Friday 9 October.
One of the volunteers spoke before everyone departed.
Wairewa Fire Brigade captain Jadon Dennis said one of his brigade’s trucks was 33 years old. (Stewart Chambers: 580670)
and equal across all society, not just a sectional portion of society,” he said. “I don’t think it’s a fair tax on farmers. We have to find a way to pay for these things. Unfortunately, we quite often turn to taxes to pay for services and items. “It is a catch 22. If you want the service, we need to pay for it in some way. And unfortunately, that does mean a tax of some description. Whether this is the right tax or the wrong tax, a challenge to know, but it’s heavily weighted on farmers who own lots of lands.” Darryl, another volunteer from Wairewa Fire Station, said the main goal of the rally is to let the
public see that they’re all in it together. “We can’t look after people if we don’t have the right equipment,” he said. The controversial ESVF levy was introduced in July 2025, which replaced the Fire Services Property Levy. It is collected through property owners’ council rates to fund a broader range of emergency services. In the 2025–26 Budget Update, the State Government forecasts ESVF levy revenue of $1.5 billion for 2025–26. The Liberals and Nationals have promised to scrap the levy if elected in November.
One Nation backs fire station upgrade and cancer cluster review By Afraa Kori One Nation’s Ben Lucas has pledged to fight for a new Nar Nar Goon fire station, but says funding must await scrutiny of state finances. The Narracan candidate said the brigade invited him to inspect its aging facilities, where he saw cramped change areas, inadequate storage and a lack of decontamination spaces. The brigade has advocated for improved facilities for years, with Captain Justin Seddon previously saying it had “outgrown” its 1942 station. Nearly 15 years ago, the brigade responded to fewer than 100 incidents annually. The figure has now risen to more than 600 callouts a year, including over 200 road rescue incidents across a 900-square-kilometre area covering parts of Cardinia Shire, Baw Baw and Casey. Mr Seddon said the station has only one bathroom, a cramped change area and insufficient space for vehicles and training. It also lacks separate dirty and clean areas and adequate facilities to decontaminate after incidents. Mr Lucas said the shared bathroom highlighted the conditions facing volunteers. “There’s females getting changed in the big change room with other men,” he said. “Now, if my daughters wanted to join, I’d probably say no, because it’s just not fit for purpose.
“They (the brigade) just want a solution. They’re not overly political. They’re not picking sides.” Mr Lucas said emergency services were among One Nation’s core priorities, but the party would examine state finances and identify spending to redirect before committing funding. “Victoria doesn’t have a revenue problem. We’ve got a spending problem and we’re spending it on the wrong things,” he said. He criticised major parties for making election promises, accusing them of “walking around dangling carrots”. “It’s actually so deceitful and disgusting buying votes like that,” he said. “As soon as possible, we will be delivering, but we can’t honestly look people in the eye and lie to them.” While he did not nominate a funding amount or delivery date, he said he would push for the brigade’s needs from his first day if elected. “I’ll be banging the door straight away for the Nar Nar Goon CFA,” Mr Lucas said. He believes brigades across the region needed suitable facilities and equipment to prepare for major fires. “And that’s not promising a brand new fire station for everyone. Some of the stations are fit for purpose, but some of the equipment isn’t.” The Nar Nar Goon brigade’s concerns extend
One Nation’s Ben Lucas meets with Captain Justin Seddon and members of Nar Nar Goon brigade. (Supplied) beyond the building. Speaking to Mr Lucas, the brigade reported that 21 current and former members had been diagnosed with cancer, including three who had died. The affected members had each served with the brigade for more than 15 years, according to a document prepared by Mr Seddon alongside former leaders Geoff Bramley and Wes Ritchie. CFA Volunteers Group Inc (CFAVG) stresses that no particular cause has been established in relation to the health concerns, nor is it seeking to interfere with any investigation. CFAVG has asked candidates contesting Narracan and Eastern Victoria to support an independent review of occupational health and safety protections for emergency-service volunteers.
“We are asking candidates whether they believe the system itself should be independently examined,”Group secretary Leigh Harry previously said. “The Nar Nar Goon situation has caused us to look beyond one brigade and ask whether Victoria is doing enough to protect emergency-service volunteers throughout their service.” Asked whether he backed an independent review following the reported cancer cluster, Mr Lucas said: “A hundred percent. We’ve got the CFA’s back.” “The CFA themselves are trying to push it, but once again, it’s blocked at the state government level,” he said. “They refuse to look at it because in their eyes, if they find an issue, they’ll then have to fix the issue. So they’re just blankly ignoring it and we’re not.”’ The Victorian Government said CFA had advised it had taken all necessary steps to be assured of the existing station’s safety. It said an independent report concluded exposure to diesel exhaust emissions at Nar Nar Goon did not present adverse effects during normal turnout conditions. The Government said this year’s State Budget provided for land acquisition for a new station, with two prospective sites identified by CFA undergoing suitability checks.
Labor pledges 150 new trucks for the CFA if elected By Ethan Henson The State Government has promised 150 new fire trucks to enter the frontline if elected in the November State Election, one day ahead of a firefighters’ mass protest. On Thursday 8 October, the Victorian Labor pledged a $167 million investment to put new fire trucks on the frontline by 2030. It is said to cover 50 new Fire Rescue Vehicle (FRV) trucks, 50 new CFA pumpers and pumper-tankers, and 50 new CFA tankers. They also revealed that they will commit to making sure no FRV truck is operating beyond its service life of 15 years by 2035. Along with this, they promised they will replace all single-cab CFA tankers and manufacture them in Victoria, such as Sunshine North and Ballarat. This comes a month after the CFA Volun-
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teers Group (CFAVG) held a press conference on 1 September addressing concerns about outof-date equipment and funding, approaching WorkSafe Victoria for their own independent investigation into the concerns. During the press conference, the CFAVG criticised the state government for a lack of funding and said the previous announcement of $148 million over 10 years was ‘futile and inadequate’. Victorian Premier Ben Carroll said the state government plans to ensure all Victorians remain safe ahead of longer and hotter fire seasons. “Labor is backing our firefighters with new trucks and record funding. This is all about keeping Victorians safe, that is my priority,” he said. Minister for Emergency Services Paul Edbrooke added that they have listened to firefighters and will deliver the trucks they need.
Shortly after the announcement, CFA volunteers are already questioning the timing of the announcement, ahead of their Victoria Unites rally on 9 October. CFAVG Secretary Leigh Harry said volunteers would welcome the trucks, but would also question why meaningful action had taken so long. “We don’t begrudge CFA volunteers getting new trucks. They desperately need them,” he said. “But volunteers have been talking about ageing appliances and fleet replacement for years. So when 150 trucks are announced on the eve of a major volunteer rally and an election, people are entitled to ask why it took so long. “150 trucks sounds impressive. But volunteers know the difference between an announcement and a long-term plan. “What they want to know is how this announcement fits into a proper fleet replacement
strategy, and why the response is coming now, after years of concerns.” The CFAVG said the fleet analysis has identified approximately 835 frontline CFA appliances beyond their nominal service life, including about 690 tankers and 145 pumpers. CFAVG’s analysis indicates that 120–130 appliances a year may be required over an extended period to substantially reduce the existing backlog. CFAVG has said it is calling for: - A 10-year CFA fleet replacement strategy; - Transparent annual delivery targets; - Priority replacement of the oldest and highest-risk appliances; - Annual public reporting of fleet age and replacement progress; and - A program capable of reducing the existing backlog, rather than simply replacing trucks as more reach the end of their service life.
Thursday, 15 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 3
NEWS
Protecting the purpose of Melbourne’s Green Wedges Opinion by Western Port Green Wedge Protection Group The Western Port Green Wedge Protection Group (WPGWPG) responds to BAPS’ opinion article published in Cranbourne Star News on 8 October 2026. We acknowledge BAPS’ efforts to reduce environmental impacts. Initial documentation indicated a 78 per cent development footprint, while current plans identify 6 per cent building coverage and 19 per cent “formalised landscaping”. However, our calculations suggest the overall project footprint may occupy approximately 45 per cent of the 103-acre (42 hectare) site. BAPS describes its revised proposal as “a design redrawn around a lizard that most people would never notice”, stating “when [the Glossy Grass Skink’s] presence was confirmed in 2025, the organisation behind the project changed the design of the entire site and removed a whole building to keep out of the animal’s way.” BAPS acknowledges that “the glossy grass skink is … easy to miss and …. living in the southern part of the 103-acre property.” The elusive nature of the Glossy Grass Skink presents challenges for ecological assessments. Failure to detect a species in other areas of the subject site does not mean it is absent there. The WPGWPG seeks an independently commissioned ecological assessment of the site’s flora and fauna. The proposed seven-year construction period and subsequent intensive temple activities raise concerns for the long-term viability of the skink population, whose habitat lies only a few metres from the development footprint. If the species disappeared from the site, what safeguards would prevent future development from expanding beyond the current footprint into habitat currently only protected by its presence? The applicant’s 10 rural properties are zoned Green Wedge Zone Schedule 2 and fall within the Cranbourne South Conservation Area. The site has been afforded additional environmental protection through Environmental Significance Overlay Schedule 4.
Western Port Green Wedge Protection Group says there’s discrepencies between the identified Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Sensitivity areas provided by temple proponent BAPS (left) and VicPLAN (right). These provisions recognise the land’s rural and ecological significance. Environmental considerations are inherent to Green Wedge zones. A thorough understanding of the responsibilities and limitations of Green Wedge land ownership is critical before purchasing land or preparing development plans, and could avoid costly revisions. This issue extends beyond the current proposal. Increasing numbers of organisations, including data centres, battery storage facilities and places of worship, are seeking to establish large-scale, non-rural developments outside the Urban Growth Boundary, without fully appreciating the planning and environmental challenges involved. Places of worship may be permitted within Green Wedges, but this does not mean every application should be approved. Each proposal must remain consistent with Green Wedge policies that exist to maintain the distinction between urban and non-urban land, and to protect rural landscapes, agricultural land and environmental values. This proposal is fundamentally incompatible with these objectives. The scale of the BAPS Maha-Mandir is evident in the applicant’s documents. Beyond the Great Temple, car parking, walkways, gardens and associated facilities, the pro-
posal requires road upgrades, a new roundabout and 3.5 to 4 kilometres of private sewer infrastructure. On major religious occasions, visitation could reach 10,500 people daily. As urban and industrial development places increasing pressure on natural habitats and rural land, preserving Melbourne’s Green Wedges becomes ever more critical. The introduction of large-scale, urban-style developments raise fundamental questions about the long-term survival of Melbourne’s Green Wedges. Our wildlife and unique landscapes are deeply valued by Australians. For more than 50 years, Green Wedge planning protections have safeguarded these landscapes from urban expansion – a legacy for which we are profoundly grateful. It is against this background that the proposed BAPS Maha-Mandir must be considered. Public consultation has been limited to a Conversation portal for submitting questions. WPGWPG has unsuccessfully attempted to contact BAPS and would welcome face-to-face discussions. We welcome BAPS’ recent opinion article as an opportunity to respond and raise questions. We seek clarification regarding discrepancies between the applicant’s plans and current VicPlan mapping of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Sensitivity.
While the applicant identifies one area in the east of the site, VicPlan indicates three additional areas, two within proposed building and parking areas. We question why these are absent from the applicant’s plans and whether they have been considered in the cultural heritage assessment. The proposal is being assessed under the State Government’s Development Facilitation Program, where public participation is largely limited to written submissions. Objectors may also have no right to seek review through the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. WPGWPG questions whether this provides sufficient community scrutiny of a development with lasting Green Wedge implications. Casey Council recommends refusal of this application, citing concerns about infrastructure, environmental and vegetation impacts, effects on nearby residents, and the development’s scale, intensity and incompatibility with Green Wedge planning objectives. WPGWPG joins Casey Council and many others in calling for refusal. Such applications are costly and time-consuming for applicants and objectors alike. We encourage governments to work with businesses, community organisations and faith communities to identify suitable land within the Urban Growth Boundary. Green Wedge legislation must be strengthened to remove ambiguity and provide permanent protection. We want all parties to achieve their goals, but not at the expense of others or the environment. BAPS cites the teaching of its late guru, Pramukh Swami Maharaj: “in the joy of others lies our own”. We would hope that BAPS extends this philosophy equally to those who love, respect and wish to preserve the rural character, natural beauty and ecological values of the Western Port Green Wedge, for now and for the joy of future generations. We urge the State Government to give substantial weight to the concerns of the Green Wedge community, and to Casey Council’s planning recommendation for refusal.
Most successful Lynbrook Lantern Festival yet By Jensy Callimootoo Saturday’s Lynbrook Lantern Festival is being regarded as one of its best events yet, with around 5000 people attending over the evening. Organised by The Lynbrook Residents Association (LRA), the now yearly Lynbrook Lake Lantern Festival, brought families and neighbours together for a vibrant spring evening. Attendees had an array of food and market stalls to choose from, while enjoying some live entertainment, children activities and later, a beautiful sight of colourful lanterns floating in the lake. The evening concluded with a “spectacular” illuminated display of a LED dragon performance, providing an astounding finale to the community celebrations. According to an organiser, what made this year’s festival a little more special, is the changes to its layout that demonstrated an “outstanding success”. The new design worked to improve the flow of visitors and created a more enjoyable experience across the reserve. The Association described the evening as its most successful event ever, crediting the hard work of a passionate committee, dedicated volunteers and the support of the local community. Past President of the LRA, Scott Watson says the community attendance is what makes the festival “so special”. “It’s that a small group of local residents, passionate about their community, can create something of this scale with very limited funding,” he said. “To see around 5,000 people enjoying themselves, families spending time together
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Around 5000 people attended the festival.
Keen eyes follow the lights as they drift through the water.
The vibrant and colour lanterns were displayed along the Banjo Patterson Reserve in Lyndhurst. and our community sharing such a wonderful evening is incredibly rewarding.” For Watson, the payoff of accessible and family-friendly community events is often achieved when local businesses, residents and volunteers work together.
“This was our best festival yet, and we’re incredibly proud of everyone who helped make it happen. “It shows what is possible when people are prepared to put their time and energy into making their community a better place.”
The vibrant and colour lanterns were displayed along the Banjo Patterson Reserve in Lyndhurst.
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NEWS
Calls grow for a hospital By Jensy Callimootoo
Greens candidate for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region, Matthew Kirwan.
Legalise Cannabis South Eastern Metropolitan MP Rachel Payne. (Supplied) across Cardinia Shire and Casey south, Casey Hospital is currently facing an extreme amount of burden. Despite the delivery of a Cranbourne Community Hospital that opened in 2025, Kirwan argues that the facility only functions as an “enhanced version of the previous Cranbourne Community Health Service”. The community hospital does not have an ED. If elected, Kirwan says he will fight for a “real hospital” in Cranbourne.
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The Victorian opposition has announced a $99 million plan to reduce overcrowding and ambulance ramping in Emergency Departments (EDs) — but some local candidates say it wouldn’t solve the deeper problems impacting Victoria’s emergency healthcare delivery. The Coalition’s plan would fund 10 new or expanded transit lounges at hospitals that are at peak capacity, based on a needs assessment and consultation with unspecified health services. Transit lounges already exist at numerous hospitals across Victoria, including Casey and Dandenong hospitals. But accessible from Monday to Friday between 8:30am to 5pm. The lounges act as a dedicated space for medically ready patients to wait for their discharge needs including medication and transport. The plan is an effort to reduce ambulance ramping and free up emergency beds sooner. Ambulance ramping occurs when paramedics are not able to offload patients at EDs and are forced to wait with patients in the ambulance until a hospital bed becomes available. Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne says that she backs “anything” that gets patients seen faster in EDs, but argues that transit would not effectively solve the drivers causing ambulance ramping and bed overflow. “A transit lounge doesn’t shorten the queue or fix these issues; it just gives people somewhere else to wait,” she said. Matthew Kirwan, a Greens upper-house candidate, echoed Payne, arguing that the Coalition’s plan to tackle overcrowding would not be enough to ease pressure on South-East hospitals — including Casey and Dandenong hospitals. As Casey’s population continues to grow, with a projected population size of over 600,000 by 2046, Kirwan suggests an additional hospital is needed in Cranbourne to relieve the burden currently being felt by ED health professionals. Kirwan says that with the development boom
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“That will take pressure off Dandenong and Casey Hospitals and reduce elective surgery waiting lists and the issues with Casey and Dandenong Hospital Emergency Departments”. Narre Warren North Labor MP Belinda Wilson said her government was already investing in hospitals across Victoria’s South-East. Including a $305 million redevelopment of Dandenong Hospital and a brand new ED at the Casey Hospital. According to the Inquiry in Ambulance Victoria (AV) report released in October 2025, am-
bulance ramping has increased over the past decade and so has demand for ambulance services. It also found that extended periods of ambulance ramping can cause further medical complications. As well as suggesting that paramedics were leaving the workforce due to the significant morale impacts of ramping which often leads to “de-skillification and de-motivation”. Shortage of hospital capacity, hospital healthcare staff and administrative inefficiencies in hospitals are all to blame as systemic issues. And while delayed discharges are outlined as a main driver, the inquiry says this is mainly due to a lack of community-based care including rehabilitation, aged care and community-based mental health services. The committee highlighted that equally, a systemic “multi-agency” response is needed, including major investments in under-funded services. And that “stand-alone” measures that focus solely on AV will not solve “dangerous overcrowding” in EDs.
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NEWS
Casey’s drug crisis deepens By Jensy Callimootoo New figures highlight the scale of Casey’s drug crisis, with 27 fatal overdoses recorded in 2025, ranking the municipality fourth-highest in Victoria. The number of fatal overdoses across Victoria have also risen from 588 in 2024 to 632 in 2025 — more than a 7 per cent increase in one year. 2026 also marks the first time Greater Dandenong has recorded fewer overdoses than Casey, with Casey’s numbers also having consistently increased since 2016. With the issue escalating, the Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association (VAADA) have called on state leaders to invest further in worthwhile services and initiatives; including expanded outreach, targeted services in priority locations and medically supervised injecting rooms. What do local politicians have to say about this? In response to Casey’s rising drug-related fatality numbers, Independent candidate for Narre Warren South, Scott Watson, says harm reduction initiatives are “essential”, but it needs to simultaneously work with demand and supply reduction — not in isolation. Watson himself has extensive professional experience with the issue. Including serving in the Victorian police force during Victoria’s heroin crisis and later working as a Mobile Drug Safety worker to reduce blood-borne virus transmission. He also joined the Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) coordination unit which has become a key initiative in the state’s drug-related harm reduction. A program he says has his support, including the expansion of additional dispensers where there is “demonstrated need”. Casey currently has a 24-hour NSP dispensary machine located near Casey Hospital. “I spent years explaining to communities that these programs are not about encouraging drug use,” he told Star News.
Independent candidate for Narre Warren South, Scott Watson.
Matthew Kirwan, Greens Candidate for the South-Eastern Metropolitan region. “They are about protecting the broader community as well as people who inject drugs — reducing the spread of blood-borne viruses, encouraging safer disposal and reducing the risk of needle-stick injuries.” Green’s South-Eastern candidate, Matthew Kirwan, echoed the sentiment. Kirwan says that raising community awareness of services such as NSP dispensers and medically supervised injecting rooms (MSIRs) is essential to driving change. While Watson draws the line at supporting a MSIR in his electorate without “detailed contemporary evidence of local need”. Citing evidence that MSIRs reduce overdose deaths and the spread of disease while improving access to outreach services, Kirwan says
the Greens support expanding these facilities. “Regarding Casey and the south-east, if public health experts tell me that a medically-supervised facility/hub or centre would help reduce overdoses and reduce harm in Casey or other locations in the south-east, I would strongly support them,” he said. “Just as I would support more drug addiction services, which are clearly needed.” Kirwan pushed for political leaders and governments to “have courage” and take substantial action on drug addition. Adding that the issue of substance abuse is often heightened when individuals lack access to adequate housing and mental health support — and that this requires systemic solutions.
“Labor has been failing our communities in these areas,’ Kirwan said, “And the Green’s plans to build more public housing, address the cost of living crisis and expand mental health services are all important parts of a holistic approach to treating drug addiction.” Independent Watson highlighted the importance of addressing factors that can contribute to relapse, including mental health challenges, housing insecurity, unemployment and a lack of ongoing community support. His key proposal is a structured, longer-term recovery program involving peer mentoring, in which people who have experienced addiction would be trained and supported to assist others recovering from dependence. “Ultimately, my position is simple, we must do everything reasonably possible to prevent an overdose death,” Watson said. “But we should also be investing in giving people the best possible chance of never experiencing another one.” The Liberals and One Nation did not respond by deadline.
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Thursday, 15 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 7
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Bus network must deliver By Jensy Callimootoo
CRRA’s President Anthony Tassone. ning and weekend services, and coordinating bus timetables with train departures to reduce waiting times and make public transport a more attractive alternative to driving. The association is also concerned about the proposed changes to Routes 836 (Berwick Station - Eden Rise SC via Bridgewater Estate) and 846 (Berwick Station - Eden Rise SC via Bryn Mawr Bvd), warning that a nearby alternative bus stop does not necessarily provide equivalent access to destinations such as Berwick, Beaconsfield and Eden Rise. CRRA is urging the government to consider safe walking routes, pedestrian crossings, accessibility for older residents and people with dis-
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A local association has welcomed proposed changes to Casey’s bus network, which would improve services across the municipality, while emphasising the importance of ensuring existing passengers are not left behind. The Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) is calling for key improvements to the proposed Casey bus network redesign, arguing that better public transport must deliver practical, reliable journeys for residents across the municipality. In its submission to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), CRRA welcomed plans to extend services into growing communities, but urged for greater safeguards to its existing routes. The association’s president, Anthony Tassone says the success of the redesign should be measured by more than how close residents live to a bus stop. “Casey is one of Victoria’s fastest-growing communities, and our bus network needs to keep pace,” he said. “We welcome new routes, more frequent services and better connections, but the changes need to deliver genuine improvements for residents.” The proposed DTP overhaul extends to routes in Cranbourne, Clyde, Berwick, Botanic Ridge, Junction Village, Tooradin and Warneet. The government says the changes are designed to make bus travel quicker, more direct and more frequent. With over 130,000 people expected to benefit from those changes. But CRRA has identified six areas requiring attention before the final network is confirmed. These include maintaining a 20-minute service on the Route 896 (Lynbrook Station - Casey Field via Merinda Park and Cranbourne Stations) corridor which is proposed to replace a section of Route 897 (Clyde North - Lynbrook Station via Cranbourne Park SC). In addition to improving early-morning, eve-
8 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 15 October, 2026
abilities, and the impact of additional transfers. Another key concern is the proposed removal of Route 795 (Warneet - Cranbourne Station) from Cannons Creek. While acknowledging lower patronage, CRRA argues that smaller communities should not be left without a reasonable public transport option. Alternatives could include a reduced-frequency service or demand-responsive transport. The association also wants bus routes and stops planned around Casey’s continuing population growth, alongside longer-term transport infrastructure, including the proposed rail extension from Cranbourne to Clyde.
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New parcels-focused post Clyde North and surrounding locals will be able to easily access their parcel services a little closer to home now, with the opening of a new parcel-focused Australia Post office. It now marks the sixth next-generation Parcels Post Office across Victoria. The site features secure 24/7 Parcel Lockers, postage assessment and label printing services and a vending machine stocked with stamps and packing. Each centralised parcels office is designed around convenience, says Australia Post’ General Manager Kate Foley. Specifically, the development aims to assist customers who are busy during business hours and can only collect their parcels after work or other commitments. “By combining in-person support with 24/7 self-service options, we’re making it easier for customers to access the services they rely on,” Foley said. Customers can also continue to access postal services at nearby Post Offices, including Clyde LPO, Narre Warren South LPO, Cranbourne North LPO, Cranbourne Park Post Shop and Berwick Post Shop.
The Clyde North team and Kate Foley. (Supplied) The new office is located at 52A Titan Drive, Clyde North.
Ribbon cutting ceremony featuring Australia Post General Manager, Retail Operations South, Kate Foley, the Clyde North Parcels Post Office team and City of Casey Deputy Mayor Anthony Walter.
Retail crime crackdown at Fountain Gate By Jensy Callimootoo Nearly 200 arrests have been made and over 20 weapons have been seized at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre over the last year, as part of the states’ initiative to reduce crime in shopping centres. From 8 December 2025 to 1 October 2026, a Victoria Police and State Government initiative, dubbed, Operation Pulse commenced across nine major shopping centres in Victoria to combat rising crime.
According to numbers confirmed by a state government spokesperson, there have been approximately 187 arrests with 482 charges as well as 25 weapons seized at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre in the last 10 months. Operation Pulse was originally a two month program, due to end in February 2026, but was later extended by the state government following its success in making customers and retailers feel safer. It will now continue until the end of 2026. A survey from March found that 84 per cent of customers felt safer with police presence in com-
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plexes. Local Labor MP Michael Galea says he’s heard first-hand of how the police-initiative has impacted the sense of security and atmosphere. “We’ve seen how effective Operation Pulse has been in Fountain Gate and in the other centres it‘s been deployed at,” said Galea. “Retail workers have told me how much of a difference it has made to their sense of safety at work, knowing police are nearby if a customer turns aggressive. “That’s why I welcome the expansion of the
program along with more resources for police, which will also enable police to increase patrols in other shopping strips as needed.” Police presence and Protective Services Officers (PSOs) were originally boosted with the objective of preventing retail theft, anti-social behaviour and weapons-related offending. All additional shifts are voluntarily taken by officers and PSOs on planned rest days, meaning the increased shopping centre presence does not reduce frontline policing or impact rail network patrols.
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Around 100 bags were packed with the help of Elizabeth Tilli’s friends and family.
Elizabeth Tilli.
Essential items were sourced from local organisations.
Guest speaker Belinda Badger.
Rallying for 100 care bags Over 100 bags full of essential products were packed on Sunday afternoon at the Lynbrook Cricket Club as part of a Share the Dignity initiative. Each bag will now be taken and delivered
to those who most need it — women and girls across Melbourne who are experiencing homelessness, domestic violence or doing it tough. Behind the cause, is Elizabeth Tilli, who
organised for her friends and family to come together and contribute. Tilli sourced donations from various organisations, including local community groups. Share the Dignity is a women’s Austra-
lian-based charity. The organisation distributes period products to women, girls, and anyone who menstruates who needs support.
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FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING Psychosocial hazards causing mental health woes at work
Mastering lower limb pain Treating foot, knee, and leg pain is often complex and multifaceted. That’s why it’s essential to consult a musculoskeletal specialist who can perform a thorough lower limb assessment and develop a treatment plan tailored to individual and specific needs. Dr. Paul Dowie, Musculoskeletal Podiatrist at Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, shares valuable insights into the key factors involved in effectively managing these conditions: Identifying the Root Cause Pain in the foot or leg can result from many sources — including injury, overuse, arthritis, nerve impingement, biomechanics or vascular issues. Accurate diagnosis of both the primary cause and contributing factors is critical to achieving lasting relief. Individual Variability What works for one person may be ineffective for another. Personalising treatment based on each individuals’ condition, lifestyle, and pain tolerance is essential. Conservative vs Surgical Care Some conditions may require surgical input, but most cases benefit greatly from non-surgical, regenerative, and drug-free approaches. Biomechanical correction, structured rest or activity management, targeted strengthening programs, and natural regenerative therapies (e.g, Prolotherapy or PRP) can provide excellent outcomes, while helping to avoid surgery.
Orthotics & Assistive Devices Custom orthotics, braces, and other assistive devices can improve gait, reduce pressure, support weight-bearing, enhance mobility, and increase comfort to assist recovery. Multidisciplinary Support Complex cases may benefit from a team-based approach, involving collaboration between a range of health professionals to deliver comprehensive care. Rehabilitation Tailored strength and conditioning programs aimed at optimising function, restoring strength and increasing mobility are often vital for supporting recovery and preventing recurrence. Lifestyle Adjustments Modifying daily habits such as footwear choices, activity levels, or movement patterns can significantly reduce strain on affected areas and assist healing. Patient Education Empowering individuals with knowledge about their condition, its causes, and available treatment options fosters better outcomes. Education around self-care and prevention strategies are helpful in supporting recovery long-term. If you have foot, knee, or leg pain, injury, or arthritis, you can seek expert help locally at Dr. Dowie’s Foot and Leg Pain Clinic in Berwick. Call 1300 328 300 for appointments.
ployers need to recognise these risks early and take steps to prevent injury. “The key is knowing what is negatively impacting workers and acting before it causes lasting harm. “A safe workplace is one where people are able to speak up, feel supported and trust that something will be done when something isn’t right.” Australian Psychological Services (APS) chief psychologist Doctor Laura Kirby said early action to recognising and responding to psychological harm can make a significant difference. “The way we design jobs, lead teams, and shape workplace culture has a direct impact on people’s wellbeing,“ she said. “When factors like excessive workloads, bullying or poor management are allowed to build up, they can have serious consequences. “Employers need to look beyond individual resilience and proactively address the workplace factors contributing to psychological harm..” In responding to the signs of psychosocial hazards, the AIHS recommends employers and work health and safety professionals: Design the work in ways that foster positive, inclusive and sustainable workplace cultures, Act on the first signs of distress, whether they come from one person or a whole team, Support workers recovering from psychological injury, in consultation with their treating health professionals, and Talk about mental health risks openly and often, not only when something has gone wrong.
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Australia’s peak workplace health and safety body is warning that psychosocial hazards are among the most serious risks facing workers today. Australian Institute of Health of Safety (AIHS) data reveals those impacts can be more severe and long-lasting that many physical workplace hazards. AIHS chair Celia Antonovsky said employers and work health and safety professionals should take care of their mental health just as much as their physical safety. “Where we work, what we do, and who we work with can have a huge impact on our mental health,“ she said. “Employers need to understand where these factors can become risks and take action to prevent psychological injury.“ The latest data reveals there were 146,700 serious workers’ compensation claims in 202324 - equivalent to more than 400 every day across Australia. Mental health conditions accounted for 12 per cent of all serious claims, with claims increasing by more than 161 per cent over the past decade - the largest increase of any major injury or disease group. It also found workers with a mental health claim spend almost five times longer away from home than those with other serious injuries and diseases. Ms Antonovsky said some of the most damaging workplace injuries are not always visible. “A workplace doesn’t have to be physically unsafe for a worker to be injured,“ she said. “Stress, burnout, bullying, and excessive workloads can have a serious impact, and em-
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Local business owners, Daljit and Sandee.
Himani Goel runs her business, Blissbymi.
Shveta and Anarya from E&A Creations.
Shweta Khatri and Sahil Sethi, pictured with 5 year old Sayesha Sethi, run the family business Silver Qube.
Founder of the organisation, Chanchal Kumavat with her team of family and volunteers.
Festival of lights celebrations Hampton Park welcomed a vibrant celebration of culture and community at this year’s Casey Diwali Market, held on Saturday 10 October at Arthur Wren Hall. Presented by Saathi Multicultural Association of Australia and supported by the City of Casey,
the free family festival celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Lights, with a day of shopping, food, entertainment and children’s activities. Visitors could explore a multicultural marketplace featuring traditional Indian clothing, sarees, jewellery, festive decorations, homewares
and gift hampers. Food stalls offered authentic Indian dishes, snacks, sweets, ice creams and desserts. Young visitors were catered for with activities including animal pat-a-pet, face painting, balloon twisting, children’s stalls and opportunities
to meet cartoon characters and take photographs. The event provided an opportunity for local families to come together, while highlighting the region’s rich multicultural diversity and the important role community festivals play in bringing people together.
Cosentino returns home By Ethan Henson Home-grown and world-renowned magician, illusionist and escapologist Cosentino is planning to deliver world-class close-up magic to Dandenong audiences. Like the headliner of his new tour, he wants audiences to truly know who he is in hopes of becoming more connected with his audiences, even if that means looking back into his past. Growing up in parts of Dandenong North, and later on in Lysterfield, Paul Cosentino found his passion when he found a book on the Great Harry Houdini, who showcased all of his legendary escapes and performances through the years. After his mother explained who Houdini was, and the performances and situations he created and escaped from, he felt inspired to follow suit. Being inspired by the legendary escape artist, Cosentino quickly found his passion for magic at 12 years old. Once he took the book home, he discovered it was action-packed with adventures, stories, and escapades of multiple great magicians. Finding a list of magic tricks at the back of the book, Cosentino’s mother sat with him patiently and helped him practice by explaining each trick. Cosentino said that after dissecting, learning, slowing down, and building patience with these magic tricks, he learned how to read through this book. This quickly started an obsession with sleight-of-hand magic, where he even made a coin disappear in front of his father who he described as knowing everything and anything. Once his father asked how he did it, it gave him the adrenaline shot he needed to continue his newfound love for magic for the next 15 years. He would hone and craft his magic into his
12 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 15 October, 2026
own, where he soon found himself on the next big stage of his early career. Being introduced nationally on the big stage of Australia’s Got Talent in 2011, he could only perform for 90 seconds. He said those 90 seconds changed his life and helped him reach the career he has today, especially the finals, which he didn’t even expect to reach to begin with. He added that when he first performed on the AGT stage, back then magic never got the respect it deserved, especially in Australia. Cosentino said that if someone had performed before him and did what he did, he would have found it a lot easier to get through as a career magician. Years later, Cosentino now performs on spectacular, multi-million-dollar stage productions, hanging upside down from burning ropes, having crossbows shoot at him and much more. But this time he wants to perform differently, go back to his roots to where it all began. Perform in front of people, face to face, audience reactions and close-up magic. “Let’s bring it back to what my first TV shows were like. Me running around the street, performing magic to people that I do not know, and really just blowing their minds,” Cosentino said. “It’s no less spectacular, it’s definitely a lot less magical. But some of most of the really gasp moments in my other shows have come from the close-up magic, “Inviting people up on stage and them sitting opposite me and me borrowing objects and rings or whatever it may be. So, it’s taking all of those best bits now, plus new stuff.” Cosentino said he loves all the spectacular, creative performances he has done. But his absolute favourite has always been the audience interactions. He said he picked smaller venues like Drum
Cosentino said he wants to reconnect with his audiences in a setting he started with. (Supplied) Theatre for his tour so he could get closer with the audience members. “Although it’s just me on stage, there’s a huge crew to pull it all off. There are cameras everywhere. There are TV screens everywhere,” he said. “I’m kind of pulling back the curtain a little bit, it should feel much more intimate. And it’s very bespoke in the way that the audiences will change the show every night.
“Every show is going to feel different and look different because they behave differently. This show now allows me to play venues that I couldn’t do before, and it’s better because of the setting.” Cosentino: Unplugged is at The Drum theatre, Dandenong on Saturday 16 October, 7pm. Details: https://greaterdandenong-events. bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_f6e196e3f420422c999a058991e2d778
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‘Game over’ for racism
Casey deputy mayor Anthony Walter, Labor state candidate and Casey Cr Stefan Koomen, Cr Jennifer Dizon, Awer Mabil, Casey mayor Michelle Crowther, Melbourne City FC chief executive Brad Rowse, CMY CEO Carmel Guerra, Victoria’s First Nations state netball team head coach Lee Bevan Woodley at the Casey Fields event on 2 October. (CMY)
Victoria’s First Nations Netball Team head coach Lee Bevan-Woodley, Melbourne City player and Socceroo Awer Mabil and Melbourne City FC community head Sunil Menon address the breakfast event. (Centre for Multicultural Youth) Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY) this year. It is about clubs recognising, calling out and preventing racism by strengthening social connection and belonging. The campaign was backed by Monash University research in 2025 that showed racism was all too common on the pitch, fields and courts. -56 per cent of players experienced or witnessed racism in community sport -75 per cent had done so in the past 12 months
-55 per cent experienced or witnessed racism in their own club. Racism was significantly under-reported, with 43 per cent fearing retaliation and 35 per cent fearing they wouldn’t be believed. The campaign is in partnership with seven state sports associations, VACSAL, Vicsport and VicHealth, and funded by the State Government. “Community sport should be a space where everyone feels safe, and has a sense of belong-
ing,” CMY chief executive Carmel Guerra said. “But when racism happens in community sport, the impacts are felt long after the game is over. “The strength of this campaign lies in the collective commitment of major sporting bodies in Victoria to work together to acknowledge and address racism in community sport.” Seven state sport associations AFL Victoria, Basketball Victoria, Cricket Victoria, Football Victoria, Netball Victoria, NRL Victoria and Tennis Victoria have got behind Racism Doesn’t Belong in Our Game. They signed a landmark anti-racism pledge in 2025. CMY is calling on state election candidates to fund the continuation and growth of the CMSport and State Sporting Associations (SSA) Pledge Group work.
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The ball is in sports clubs’ courts – and they’re blowing the whistle on racism. Leading netball coach Lee Bevan Woodley and Socceroo Awer Mabil led a conversation at a Racism Doesn’t Belong in Our Game breakfast at Casey Fields on 2 October. Clubs and associations from Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia heard the pair reflect on belonging, inclusion, cultural safety and how to tackle racism in sport. Bevan-Woodley, a proud Kija Bardi woman who is head coach of Victoria’s First Nations state netball team, is a storyteller for the campaign. She urged clubs to make sure people with a lived experience are included in decision-making. “If you’re going to claim that you’re inclusive, accepting and multicultural, then you have to have the people in place making these decisions that reflect that. “Giving people a voice who don’t feel comfortable speaking up, or don’t have the opportunity to speak up in their own environments, is really important.” She said clubs should take action on racism by taking every report or discussion seriously. “Let the individual know that what they’re saying is confidential, that you believe them and they can trust you, and that you’re going to take it to where it needs to go and there to support them throughout.” Mabil, a South Sudanese-Australian footballer for Melbourne City FC, has been vocal on experiencing racism and the powerful role that sport can play. He encouraged people in community sports to report and respond to racism: “If you just keep it inside, then it’s kind of burning you. “When you share something, at least you have it out rather than just sitting in silence with it.” The campaign Racism Doesn’t Belong in Our Game was launched by Centre for Multicultural Sport (CMSport) and its parent body
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Thursday, 15 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 13
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Exciting exhibition coming By Jensy Callimootoo For Berwick-based artist Criss Chaney, the process of ‘becoming’ is not just about turning into someone else. It is about finding the strength to rebuild, trust yourself and discover who you want to be. Her latest body of work, ‘Becoming’, brings together years of artistic exploration and personal change, transforming difficult life experiences into bold, textured paintings of women who refuse to shrink themselves. “I lost everything and have had to rebuild,” Chaney says of a painful divorce that reshaped her life over the past four years. “That’s a lot of what my newer work is about, that sort of quest to self-actualise.” The exhibition, which is currently open to the public at the Hayshed Arts Space in Berwick, depicts a series of transformations, exploring the themes of freedom and choice in women, and the act of being bold. Chaney says that each painting becomes a kind of “self-portrait”, documenting the artist’s evolving understanding of herself and the life she wants to create. Rather than painting women she feels the need to protect, she says, the figures she creates have become a source of protection for her. “I would say I’m not protective of them or their ideas, it’s more that they protect me,” Chaney says. “If I need strength, I’ll paint someone who
has strength. And that’s kind of what I want my viewers to feel as well.” The relationship between art and identity has become increasingly tangible for the artist of more than 20 years. She details how the colourful hair and confident women that once existed only on her canvases have gradually found their way into her own life. “I paint women who are cool because I want to be cool, or I paint women who are strong because I want to be strong,” she says. Her creative journey began in childhood, when art was a way to spend time with her mother. She later completed a four-year glassblowing degree in the UK and worked as a glassblower for about a decade before turning to painting. Today, her practice draws on feminist literature, music, meditation and a love of texture and sculptural detail. One of the greatest lessons she has taken from painting is learning to trust herself through what she calls the “messy middle”. A stage when a work looks far from finished, but requires faith and persistence. “For a good 80 per cent of the painting, the painting looks pretty sh*t,” she says. “You have to have enough self-trust as an artist to continue with the process and trust that it’s going to come out in the end.” It is a philosophy that extends well beyond
Artist Criss Chaney, whose ‘Becoming’ exhibition is currently opened to the public at the Hayshed Studio in Berwick. the studio. As her series has now been released to the community, she is also exploring new printmaking collaborations and continuing to develop work centred on women and flowers. Through her paintings, she hopes others will find something of themselves – and perhaps the courage to keep becoming. The Becoming exhibition is currently being shown at the Hayshed Studio in Berwick’s Old Cheese Factory until 9 November. It’s free to
the public and open between 10am to 4pm, 7 days a week. This weekend, Criss will also be opening her studio to the public as part of Casey’s Open Studio weekend. From Saturday 17 October to 18 October, 10pm to 4pm, art enthusiasts will be able to take a sneak peak in Criss’ workspace. For more information on the Open Studios weekend, go to casey.vic.gov.au/events/ open-studios-2026
Fun at U3A Cranbourne as a bit of a sing song breaks out at Lynne’s table.
Quilling Lynne and Merrill.
Lynne from the Clik, Clack, Chat (Knitting and Crochet).
Dianne with her water colour artwork. (Stewart Chambers: 582234)
U3A Open Day celebrates active aging in Cranbourne U3A’s Open Day in Cranbourne proved a great success, with many locals visiting the hub for a fun day of activities. Attendees had an opportunity to tour the
14 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 15 October, 2026
Cranbourne building, meet tutors, group leaders and seasoned members. From scrabble to calligraphy, the day was jam packed with hobbies.
Over the month of October, over 50 programs have been organised by the City of City Casey and key community groups to highlight the importance of ageing positively.
For more information on the programs you can visit, casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
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Thursday, 15 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 15
WHAT’S ON Brunch and Banter
Casey Cardinia Heritage Festival
STEAM Fest
Afghan Seniors Festival
Delicious home-baked treats, Australian-themed poetry readings and themed art session. Participants are encouraged to share poetry from their cultural backgrounds. Thursday 15 October 11am-1pm at Merinda Park Learning & Community Centre, 141-147 Endeavour Dr, Cranbourne North; free event. Bookings required: admin@merindapark.com.au and provide your name, contact number, email address and how many will be attending or call 03 5996 9056.
Historic photographs and artefacts, browse local history books and bring along your own research questions. Librarians and local historical societies will share stories, answer questions about the people, places and events that have shaped our region. Don’t miss Jo Clyne’s Heritage Magic show, vintage cars on display. Coffee van refreshments. Saturday 17 October, 10am-2pm at Clyde Public Hall, 30 Railway Road, Clyde; free event. No bookings required.
Fun event for learning and innovation, a mix of Science, Tech, Engineering, Arts, and Math projects - hosted by Multicultural Mailer. It gives young people a chance to build, compete, and learn new skills to get ready for the jobs of tomorrow. For students, parents and teachers. Saturday 17 October, 11am-1pm at 18-20 Stuart Avenue, Hampton Park; free event. Bookings required at https://multiculturalmailer.org.au/ steam-fest-2026/
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For older Afghan residents and other seniors in Casey. Afghan music, poetry, storytelling, traditional food, cultural displays, light movement activities, and connect with local services. Bilingual staff and volunteers fluent in Dari, Hazaragi and Pashto available. Monday 19 October, 11.30am-2.30pm at Hallam Senior Citizens Centre, 2 Princes Domain Dr, Hallam; free event. Bookings required: 0480 350 258.
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Open Studios Weekend
Seniors Tai Chi
Free self-guided tours through South East artists and makers’ studios, workshops, galleries and gardens. Live demonstrations, creative workshops, and locally crafted artworks. Free bus tour available. Saturday 17 October and Sunday 18 October, 10am-4pm at various locations; free event. Details: www.casey.vic.gov.au/events/open-studiosweekend-2026-0
Japanese Cord Bracelet Making
Seniors BBQ
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Tulip Social Hub presents a free event with live music, great BBQ and even better company celebrating our senior community. Thursday 15 October, 2pm-4pm at Balla Balla Community Centre, Unit 7/9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North; free event. Details: info@tulipcarenetwork. com.au or 0468 464 644.
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Free music for seniors Enjoy an evening of live music with support acts and ‘Wild Women of Anywhere Beach’ touring from Tasmania. These talented ladies sing, play uke and banjo. Light refreshments, tea, coffee, beer and wine available for purchase. Friday 16 October, 6.30pm-10pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; free event. Bookings required: 0418 565 264.
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Free Pickleball – Seniors Festival Free drop-in sessions during October. No bookings required. Equipment supplied. Fridays 10am-11.30am and Sundays 10.30am-11.30am at Olive Road sporting complex, Eumemmerring.
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Destash Market Got more craft supplies than you’ll ever use? We’re looking for stallholders selling unwanted fabric, art supplies, yarn, sewing materials, scrapbooking items and more. Individuals, groups and businesses are welcome, provided the focus is on affordable prices. Schools, community groups and charity craft programs - stock up on low-cost supplies. Saturday 17 October, 9am-2pm at Cranbourne West Community Hub, 4 Flicka Blvd, Cranbourne West. Stall bookings/enquiries: https://events. humanitix.com/host/green-living-in-casey
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CWA Craft Exhibition West Gippsland Group CWA members’ knitting, crochet, needlework, embroidery, patchwork, lacework, and photography. As well as jams, preserves, and baked goods. Cut flowers, pot plants and floral art. Demonstration activities. Saturday 17 October 10am-4pm at Akoonah Park, Berwick; free event. No bookings required.
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Gardening Together For kids (3-6yo), dads and grandfathers for a morning of digging, planting, playing and getting dirty. Grow vegetables to eat, learn about insects and have fun in the kids’ play garden. Bring hats, sunscreen and water bottles. Gardening tools provided. Saturday, 17 October 10am-11.30am at Old Cheese Factory community garden, Homestead Road, Berwick; free event. Bookings required at https://www.trybooking.com/DOTSF
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High Tea at Summerset Delicious selection of sweet and savoury treats while connecting with fellow seniors in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Saturday 17 October, 10am-1pm at Summerset, 98 Mannavue Blvd, Cranbourne North; free event. Bookings required at cranbourne.sales@ summerset.com.au or 03 97068 5642. RSVP by 8 October.
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MASSAGE THERAPISTS ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.
Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au
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Double Ninth: Celebrate Positive Ageing in Casey Hosted by the Edelweiss Casey Choir. Blending the spirit of positive ageing with the traditional Chinese Double Ninth Festival, the event honours older adults and celebrates health, wellbeing and longevity. BBQ, fun games, singing and dance performances. Sunday 18 October, 11am-2pm at Buchanan Park, 74 Clyde Rd, Berwick; free event. No bookings required.
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Junior Chess Academy Dandenong-Casey Chesscapades for ages 5-17. All skill levels welcome. Held by Dandenong-Casey Chess Club. Sundays 1pm-3pm at 289 Power Road Endeavour Hills. Details: Paul, 0451 215 967.
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Low impact movements designed to promote strength, mobility and balance. This event is for patrons over 50 years. Bring a towel and water bottle. Wednesday 21 October, 12.30pm-1.30pm at Cranbourne Library, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East; free event. Bookings required at https://events.connectedlibraries.org.au/ event?id=232107
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Robots for Seniors Try your hand at spheros - small robots. Control them through a maze, run a race and all other sorts of fun challenges. For beginners, no coding or robotics experience required. Wednesday 21 October, 1pm-2.30pm at Doveton Library, 28 Autumn Place, Doveton; free event. Bookings: events.connectedlibraries.org. au/event?id=241563
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Childrens Week Families with children aged 0 to 6 years are invited to ‘Spring into Play’ in the beautiful grounds of the Old Cheese Factory. Free morning of fun, play, music, physical and interactive activities, entertainment. Thursday 22 October 9.30am-12.30pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; free event. No bookings required.
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Join one of Victoria’s leading independent community media organisations. Star News Group is seeking an enthusiastic, results-driven and customer-focused Print & Digital Sales Representative to join our dynamic sales team. With a proud history of delivering trusted local news across print, digital, newsletters and social media platforms, Star News Group connects businesses with highly engaged audiences throughout Melbourne’s south-east and regional Victoria. About the Role : This is an exciting opportunity to manage an established client portfolio while actively developing new business opportunities across our diverse media platforms. The successful applicant will work with local businesses to create effective advertising campaigns incorporating: • Newspaper advertising • Digital display advertising • Sponsored online content • Email marketing campaigns • Digital Newsletter Key Responsibilities : • Maintain and grow an existing client base. • Identify and secure new business opportunities. • Develop tailored advertising and marketing solutions for clients. • Prepare proposals, presentations and campaign recommendations. • Work collaboratively with editorial, design and digital teams to deliver outstanding client outcomes. About You: You will possess: • Excellent communication, negotiation and presentation skills. • Strong organisational and time management abilities. • A positive attitude and a passion for helping local businesses succeed. • A current driver’s license and reliable vehicle. What We Offer : • An established territory with existing clients. • Competitive salary package including base salary and commission. • Supportive team environment. • The opportunity to work with a respected and trusted community media brand. • If you are passionate about sales, enjoy working within your local community and thrive in a fast-paced media environment, we’d love to hear from you.
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Casey Friendship Association presents familyfriendly celebration of Chinese heritage. Traditional mooncakes, Chinese cuisine, cultural performances and beautiful handcrafted lantern displays. Saturday 17 October, 1pm-4pm at John Pandazopoulos Hall, 78 Power Road, Doveton; free event. Bookings required: 0431 690 798.
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Tai Chi is a mindbody practice that combines slow, gentle movements and physical postures with an aim to slow down both the mind and the body. Benefits include increased fitness, balance, strength, mobility and even cognition. Wednesday 21 October, 8.20am-9.05am at Casey ARC, 10 Patrick North East Dr, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings required at https:// caseyleisure.perfectgym.com.au/clientportal
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Make a beautiful bracelet using Mizuhiki, traditional Japanese decorative paper cord. No experience necessary. Japanese artist Anna will share her passion and skills throughout this hands-on workshop. Saturday 17 October 11am-3pm at Emerging Artists Creative Hub, 59 Webb Street, Narre Warren; gold coin donation. No bookings required. Details: Anna Japana, 0412 681 828 or mizuhiki@ annajapana.com
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au
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Special win for Diamanda By David Nagel Many horse races were run for more money and carried more status across the weekend; but it could be argued that the most meaningful win of all came at Cranbourne on Friday night. Diamanda, a 10-year-old mare trained by an 80-year-old trainer from Bittern - who only has one horse under his care - took home picnic racing’s biggest prize, the $25,000 Cranbourne Corinthian (1200m). Jockey Shaun Cooper jumped to the front and stayed there, leading all the way and fighting off all challengers despite lumping the incredible impost of 79.5 kilos. Cooper and the daughter of Golden Snake/ Miss Glitter produced a weight-carrying record; holding off a late challenge from Epicus to win by just under a length on the line. For trainer Michael Binney, the all-the-way victory was almost too much to handle. “It nearly brings tears to my eyes,” Binney said post-race. “She is special, because I bred her with my late-wife Margaret, and Margaret named her, Margaret chose the colours and that’s the reason why. “She’d be up there riding with her.” Diamanda has provided Binney with many thrills in racing, including a dominant fourlength win in his ‘hometown’ Balnarring Cup on Australia Day this year. It was one of five wins from six starts through
Jockey Shaun Cooper celebrates the win of Diamanda in the Cranbourne Corinthian on Friday night. (Scott Barbour/Racing Photos: 584102) the months of January and February, with three picnic wins than followed by professional meeting wins at Stony Creek and Kyneton. Diamanda is no slouch, having now won $212,000 in prizemoney and scoring 13 wins in 77 career starts. Binney puts her winning form down to a com-
fortable lifestyle with very little stress at all. “She does love her racing and she lives a good life too,” he said. “She doesn’t go to a track, she works down the Balnarring beach or out the back of home, she’s the only horse I’ve got, she’s got plenty of down time, we have a great understanding of each other
and I ride her in her work every day. “She’s just a beautiful mare; if I say trot, she’ll trot, if I say walk, she’ll walk; she looks after me as much as I look after her.” Binney was proud to see his mighty mare break her own weight-carrying record; after carrying 77 kilos in her Balnarring Cup win this year. “They are there to be beaten, and I said it was just like a top boxer jumping in the ring with one arm tied behind their back; but she blew that (theory) out the window,” Binney said. “I’ve spoken to a number of people and it is a weight-carrying record I believe.” Friday night’s meeting included two of Cranbourne’s biggest races of the year, with the Hayestrained Ndola taking out the $100,000 Apache Cat Classic (1200m), before local trainer Gavin Bedggood continued his recent run of success in the $100,000 Pinker Pinker Plate (2025m). Ocean Bay, a four-year-old mare ridden perfectly by Daniel Stackhouse, got busy from a midfield position at the 600-metre mark and made her move. Stackhouse weaved a winning passage around the bend; taking the lead at the top of the straight and fighting off a strong late challenge from Sun Gift to make it five wins from 10 career starts. All jockeys in the Pinker Pinker wore pink breeches; with thousands of dollars being raised for the McGrath Foundation on the night. Racing returns to Cranbourne this Friday 16 October.
Sparks ahead of finals as Gibbs gives Snipers the edge By David Nagel Snipers and Predators will fight for the right to be the first qualifier for the South West Gippsland Dart League (SWGDL) Winter Season grand final after an extraordinary end to the home-and-away rounds saw them finish top two on the ladder. Snipers and Predators sat second and third on the table heading into round 13, but an 11-4 win for Snipers over ladder-leading Cheers and a 9-6 victory for Predators over Mud Rats saw the complexion of the top three change. Snipers and Predators will now meet in the major semi – one v two - while Cheers and Mud Rats will fight for survival in the elimination final. The win of Snipers over Cheers was comprehensive, with Snipers making it six wins on the trot with a dominant display at the oche. Master-craftsman Dean Gibbs was once again unstoppable, throwing six tons to take his season tally to a super-impressive 85. Gibbs didn’t stop there however, bringing his teammates and opposition to their feet with two maximum 180s on the night. Gibbs finished with six perfect visits to the oche this season, and is clearly the player to watch when finals begin this week. Bill Richardson landed four tons for Snipers, while its back to the drawing board for Cheers after their first loss for the year proved costly and saw a slip of two places down the ladder. Predators were also impressive in a hardfought 9-6 win over Mud Rats, with Nathan Button leading the way with some stylish execution. Button threw six tons in the victory, and capped off a fine performance with a classy 106 finish. Steve Powell was also in good form for Predators, landing six triple-figure scores, while Jack Michalke fought hard for Mud Rats with four tons. Shane Bartlett also stared down a triplefigure peg-out and succeeded, throwing a 101-checkout in a 9-6 win for Dart Attack over Dart Vaders. Bartlett knocked off his own best finish of 86 this season, while his three tons were matched by young-gun teammate Jai Macfarlane. Despite losing, the six legs won by Vaders proved just enough to see them qualify in eighth place and earn a spot in the finals of the Don Brown Memorial Trophy. Teams first through fourth battle it out for
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the main prize during finals, while teams fifth to eighth will compete simultaneously for the Don Brown. In other games this week, Paul Rhyne combined a perfect three-dart visit to rack up his first 180 of the season in an 8-7 loss for Any Excuse against AAA Dartz. Rhyne’s Any Excuse teammate Brendan Simmonds threw six tons to finish with 69 for the year, while Chris Diggedon did just enough to get AAA across the line. Dart Devils defeated Bullseyes 9-6, while Generals and Flight Club had close wins, scoring 8-7 victories over Gembrook and Just Social respectively. SWGDL ROUND 13 RESULTS: Snipers def Cheers 11-4, Dart Attack def Dart Vaders 9-6, Dart Devils def Bullseyes 9-6, AAA Dartz def Any Excuse 8-7, Generals def Gembrook 8-7, Flight Club def Just Social 8-7, Predators def Mud Rats 9-6. LADDER: Snipers 48, Predators 48, Cheers 48, Mud Rats 36, Dart Devils 32, Just Social 28, Dart Attack 24, Dart Vaders 20, Flight Club 20, AAA Dartz 16, Gembrook 12, Bullseyes 12, Generals 12, Any Excuse 8. MOST TONS: Dean Gibbs 85, Brendan Simmonds 69, Liam Edwards 58, Chris Richardson 57, Shane Bartlett 50, Bill Richardson 48, Jai Macfarlane 46, Nathan Button 45, Jack Michalke 42, Steve Powell 41, Doug Amos 39, Jordan Gray 38, Chris Burke 37, Chris Diggedon 36. MOST 180s: Dean Gibbs 6, Chris Richardson 4, Jack Michalke 2, Bill Richardson 2, Jai Macfarlane, Fred Dewart, Ant, Tony Bundy, Steve Powell, Brendan Simmonds, Michael Tuck, Charlie Kruger, Nathan Button, Ryan Hanks, Craig Brook, Andrew Boulton, Scott Dale, Jordan Gray, Troy Koesemans, Paul Rhyne. HIGHEST TEAM PEG OUTS: Scott Dale (Mud Rats) 144, 4X4 (Just Social) 142, Nugget (Gembrook) 120, Bill Richardson (Snipers) 120, Nathan Button (Predators) 106, Shane Bartlett (Dart Attack) 101, Ben Bowden (Fight Club) 100, Damo (Dart Devils) 99, Jazz (Cheers) 98, Nick Bayliss (AAA Dartz) 97, Steve Quinn (Bullseyes) 91, Mateo Hrzic (Generals) 80, Brendan Simmonds (Any Excuse) 78, Charlie/ Fred (Dart Vaders) 75. • SEMI-FINAL FIXTURE PREMIERSHIP: Snipers (1) v Predators (2), Cheers (3) v Mud Rats (4). DON BROWN: Dart Devils (5) v Just Social (6), Dart Attack (7) v Dart Vaders (8).
Dean Gibbs was the standout performer in round 13 of the SWGDL; throwing six tons and two maximum 180s for Snipers against Cheers. (Supplied: 347083)
Thursday, 15 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 17
SPORT
Sangwan starts with a bang By Blair Burns In DDCA Turf 2, the name Rohien Sangwan was on everyone’s lips on Saturday. The North Dandenong opening batter went berserk to not only reach a century against Springvale South, but to push on and finish with 173 in one of the greatest one-day performances you will see. Thanks to the miraculous knock, which was at well above 100 strike rate, the Maroons posted a huge total at Lois Twohig turf to finish with 6/314 off 45 overs. And North Dandenong was ruthless with the ball, bowling the Bloods out for 155 off 38 overs to cap off a 159-run victory. Last year, Sangwan had a top score of 72 which was the only time he got past fifty for the season. Along with fellow opener Syed Masood Mehmood (66), the Maroons tore the Bloods apart to post a 205-run partnership before the skipper Mehmood was dismissed. The Maroons narrowly missed finals last year and are looking to go further under new coach Adeel Hussain who has had a long and successful playing career both in England and Australia. And it is fair to say that the new leader was pretty impressed with what he saw from Sangwan. “It was unbelievable and really special to watch,” Hussain said. “It was a very calculated innings and probably one of the best I have seen live. “As a coach and a player for your team, you couldn’t wish for a better start to the season than that in the first game.” Hussain said a large part of his coaching during the pre-season was instilling belief in the side. “Most of the boys are very good cricketers, so a big focus of mine is to get their mindset right, make them believe in their ability and give them confidence,” he said. “I spoke to Rohien on Thursday and I said ‘mate, you’re a top player and you’re our superstar, this is your season. We’ve got a long batting lineup, so just go out there, bat and enjoy yourself’. “He took it all on board, went out there and did really well.” Sangwan barely gave a chance on his way to 173, but Springvale South will be ruing a dropped catch when the star batter was on about 28. “It was a half chance, he absolutely smoked it and cover got a hand to it, but he dropped it… Rohien made them pay heavily after that and it was chanceless,” Hussain said. “I don’t know how many balls he faced but if I had to guess, I think he would’ve been striking it at close to 140.” Sangwan was patient when he needed to be, he was smart and chose when to take on each bowler. He even took down the spinner for three sixes in one over to boost his score and worry a few people who had parked their cars a bit close. It was a brutal welcome to Turf 2 for Springvale South, who admittedly, were missing some key players across their top two grades. But nevertheless, the Bloods were nowhere near it and none of the bowlers had an answer for Sangwan and his opening partner Mehmood. The dynamic duo scored a combined 239 runs, with the team eventually making 314, with extras (30) coming in as the third top-scorer on the day. The Maroons’ run rate was seven per over and it was going to be one hell of a chase if Springy was to chase down the mammoth total. But on the positive side of things, the Bloods knew what they had to do…see ball, hit ball. Unfortunately, they lost three early wickets with the top-three batters all falling to the bowling of skipper Hussain (3/15). Brayden Sharp (53), Gurmeet Singh Sahni (46) and Angus Cooper (28) provided some resistance in the middle order, but it was to no avail as no other batters managed double figures. Mehmood and Sushant Gupta both took two wickets each for North Dandenong as they bowled the Bloods out for 155 and capped off a
18 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 15 October, 2026
North Dandenong capped off a huge win against Springvale South. (Gary Sissons: 537211)
Triyan De Silva was a huge inclusion for HSD with the all-rounder making a rapid half-century with the bat against Parkmore. (Rob Carew: 583585) big win. North Dandenong now shifts its focus towards this weekend with a big challenge against Parkfield, who is coming off a shock loss to Narre Warren. In other games, HSD had a big 137-run win over Parkmore as Brent Patterson belted 104 for the Cobras to help the side post a big total of 5/271. It was a grand final rematch from 2024/25 and this time, the victory belonged to HSD as the Craig Hookey-coached Cobras delivered in a big way. The Pirates were relegated from Turf 1 after a tough season where they managed to win just one game and would’ve come into this clash with hope of a better performance. Parkmore won the toss and chose to bowl first, a decision which worked nicely for the Cobras as opening pair Patterson and new recruit Robert North, who came across from Silverton, went about their business. A brilliant 145-run opening partnership was an early highlight as HSD set up the game, allowing Triyan De Silva (52 off 36 balls) to come in and swing the bat around to great effect.
A score of 271 was always going to need some chasing and unfortunately for the Pirates, Satinderjit Singh was the only player to trouble the scorers with 59. But it was HSD bowling pair Liam O’Connor (4/25) and Sakuntha Liyanage (3/16) who led the way as the Cobras bowled Parkmore all out for 134 in the final over of the innings. Cranbourne recovered from a shaky start with the bat to defeat Silverton by 14 runs in round one. Springvale Reserve was home to plenty of boundaries on Saturday with both teams passing 200 in their batting innings. The Bakers won the toss and sent the Eagles in and at 3/46, Cranbourne was off to a poor start. But as it did so often last season, the middle order stood up through Harsaroup Singh (67), captain Cameron Kelly (46) and Ketan Bakshi (33). Despite some brilliant bowling from Silverton’s Sandeep Singh (3/35), Cranbourne still managed to put 8/216 on the scoreboard. The Bakers had time to chase the score but they were bowled out for 202 in the 40.4 overs,
14 runs shy with 26 balls left. Some credit must go to Silverton’s Anmol Zakhmi (47), Sandeep Singh (63) and Harsha Dampahalage (45) who all fought hard in the narrow loss - Bakshi and Harsaroup Singh both took three wickets for Cranbourne. Narre Warren shocked Parkfield in the season opener to win by 74 runs thanks to a consistent team performance with the bat, with the top-seven all reaching double figures. The Magpies lost the toss and were sent in first, but did well to put some pressure on the home side with all of the top order getting starts. Batters one to seven all made between 16 and 40, with Narre Warren ultimately needing one or two to go on with their start to reach a big total… but 8/202 was well and truly competitive. The run chase was looking okay early with Matt Goodier (29), Travis D’Souza (30) and Pasan Ganegoda (32) all working the ball around Parkfield Reserve. But the Magpies backed up their strong batting innings with the ball as Usman Ali (3/15), Ted Kahandawala (3/14) and Dulanjana Senevirathne (3/10) bowled Narre Warren to victory, ripping through the Bandits for just 128.
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SPORT
Let’s Talk Sport WITH DAVE NAGEL, JUSTIN SCHWARZE AND BLAIR BURNS
Dom, Dale...dare to dream DAVE: Good morning boys; the transition from winter to summer sports is now complete with a full round of cricket getting played on the weekend. And gents, like everyone who loves a punt, our lives are full of hard-luck stories and I can add another chapter to that book on Sunday. I had a small bet on Anton De Pasquale to win Bathurst; he was leading on the last lap and then ran out of petrol, allowing Brodie Kostecki to sneak through and get the win. JUSTIN: With all the computers and technology, they have; how could he possibly run out of juice? DAVE: That’s a very good question mate; although it is over $2.30 per litre at the moment so maybe that’s the reason why (boys laugh). Juzzy, kick us off with your best action from the weekend? BEST ACTION JUSTIN: I was out and about amongst the cricket action on the weekend and it was a superb day for the sport to make its return. I had to head to Toomuc Reserve to catch the first game of the season for Pakenham. Their lineup is going to be absolute box office this year, and I wasn’t disappointed as they were batting first. Luke McMaster, Matt Vaiano and Imesh Jayasekara couldn’t fire, but Dale Tormey and Dom Paynter were putting on a show. Paynter gets my best action, playing some absolutely lovely cut shots on his way to a half century. He was hitting them hard too, maybe inspired a little bit by Dale. Also, a massive shoutout to South Melbourne FC for winning the Australia Cup on Saturday night. As you boys know, I’ve been doing some NPL coverage for the Dandenong Journal, so while it’s the second tier of Aussie soccer, it’s still got local aspects to it. Well to see an NPL team go all the way to the final and knock off one of the most successful A-League clubs in said final, that’s just fairytale stuff. Javi Lopez, South Melbourne’s goalkeeper, won the Man of the Match award by saving multiple penalties in the shootout. Absolutely brilliant stuff. BLAIR: As you boys know, my Third XI team definitely wasn’t an option for the best action over the weekend with a tough loss, so I had to look a bit higher up the shelf. I am absolutely loving the test cricket at the moment and enjoying the current time difference, with it kicking off at 6:30pm after a long day of work. What caught my eye over the weekend was Steve Smith’s insane catching ability. We should seriously stop more often and take a moment to realise we are watching one of the greatest to ever do it, and when he retires, it will be like Dusty Juzzy, we will just pray to see him out there one more time. I don’t know what Australian cricket will do when Smith calls time. But anyway, his diving screamer in front of Matt Renshaw was impressive, but even better than that was his remarkable ability to see the play before it happens. As soon as both Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verrynne began to move into position to play a reverse sweep off Nathan Lyon, Smudge was already moving and in place. Particularly the one-hander to dismiss Verrynne, that is probably one of the greatest catches I’ve ever seen…do yourself a favour fellas and go back and watch it if you haven’t. At a local level, the best action goes to Ishan Jayarathna for his 111 off 76 balls and 3fa to guide Buckley Ridges home to a big win over Berwick. He is a deadset superstar and will be short odds for another Wookey Medal this year. DAVE: Boys, I’m going away from the local stuff for my best action this week. I was flicking through the channels yesterday (Sunday) and stumbled on the Women’s ODI between the Aussies and Bangladesh. Georgia Voll and Phoebe Litchfield opened the batting and put on a 162run partnership, and I was particularly impressed with the power of Voll and the creativity of Litchfield. A couple of Voll’s pull shots were super powerful and thoroughly deserving of best action, but back-to-back ramp shots from Litchfield get the nod this week. Unlike the men’s team at the moment, there’s just this steady stream of young talent coming through the ranks in women’s cricket and it’s scary to think that Litchfield and Voll are only 23 years old and have a stack of international cricket ahead of them. BLAIR: Alyssa Healy retires and they replace her
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Dave hopes James Trezise gets a second chance in the AFL after being delisted by Richmond last week. (Stewart Chambers: 282025) with two more guns! DAVE: Exactly mate; the production line rolls on and they’re seriously good cricketers to watch. It was like watching a couple of mates having a hit in local cricket on a Saturday; they’ve known each other for a long time and really seem to be enjoying what they’re doing. MATT RENSHAW DAVE: Boys, there’s something familiar about left-handers being given a second chance or a late call up and playing a huge role for Australia. Matty Hayden was given a second chance and became one of the greatest openers of all time and Mike Hussey was a late call up and dominated batting at six. Matt Renshaw has now returned to the Test team and he saved the day in his first test back with a brilliant 190 on the weekend. It got me thinking; is there someone out there that you boys think deserves a second chance or could be a late call up and make an impact at local or elite level? Blair, you take the new ball mate! BLAIR: I will kick off with Nathan McSweeney. I’ve said it before and I will say it again, he deserves another opportunity at test level. He was absolutely thrown to the wolves against Jasprit Bumrah in a series where the Aussies were poor and then the selectors dropped him. I want to see McSweeney come back into the side and open alongside Renshaw. Drop Travis Head back to five where he can cash in. Renshaw, McSweeney, Marnus (only just), Smith and Head…I like that order. We are crying out for some youth and people say Ollie Peake and Cooper Connolly are not ready, well play McSweeney, he may be 27 now but that would still mean he is the youngest player in the team. Warrnambool boy George Stevens was delisted by Geelong Cats after winning the JJ Liston Trophy and the Cats’ VFL best and fairest at the age of just 21. I have had a fair few chats with him over the journey and he is a tremendous young man, he even polled Brownlow votes in his short career - an AFL club should give him a second chance, they will not regret it. JUSTIN: This topic is extremely topical as Ben Simmons, another lefty shooter, is about to get his second-chance opportunity in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings. He’s looked incredible, but it is just preseason. He’s copped a lot of hate over the past five years, but seeing him hit a turnaround fadeaway jumper off the bounce really made my eyebrows raise. He hasn’t done things like that in years. I’m going to watch him very closely this year and it would be something special if he could return to his Philadelphia form and re-establish himself as a two-way star. For now, all we have is a tiny preseason highlight package and his word saying he’s the healthiest he’s ever been.
DAVE: Boys, I was gutted when I heard that Richmond had cut James Trezise last week because I think he was played out of position at Punt Road and was never allowed to show his full skillset. At Tooradin, he was a high-forward who would drift into defence and then scorch his defender on the way back. He also had a good leap and could take a good grab. Richmond played him at half back from the very first day he was drafted and he never really got the chance to show off the skills that got him there in the first place. I would love to see him get a second chance in the AFL and be played at half forward and just let him play on instinct. That’s when he did his best work at Tooradin; he’s still only 24 and I’d love to see him have a really good stint at his second club. And, just like Hayden, Hussey and Renshaw…he’s a lefty! JUSTIN: Does he end up back at Tooradin do you think Dave if he doesn’t get picked up again? DAVE: I don’t think so mate; hopefully he gets another run or worst case gets a gig in the VFL. If he did come back to local footy, I think Berwick would probably be frontrunners because he’s best mate Lewis Hill plays at Edwin Flack Reserve. Fingers crossed he gets another run; he’s a really good kid and I’d love to see him prove the doubters wrong. BATHURST DAVE: As I said, I was flicking through the channels yesterday boys and had a small financial interest in what was taking place at Bathurst. I’m not a motor-racing aficionado by any means, but I couldn’t help but get swept up in the theatre of the great race and what it means to the fans of the sport. Bathurst really is the home of Australian Motorsport; it’s such an iconic venue and the pilgrimage there each year is super impressive. JUSTIN: I think this topic is heading towards you and a visit to Augusta! DAVE: What do you mean? JUSTIN: You keep talking about how much a visit to the Masters at Augusta would mean to you…is that where this heading? DAVE: Mate, I don’t know where you got your crystal ball from…but you’re spot on! BLAIR: Impressive interruption Juzzy! DAVE: That was impressive. My question to you boys is; pick out some of the most iconic venues and events from your favourite sports and which ones you would like to attend. Juzzy, you seem to know everything about this topic…let’s start with you! JUSTIN: Well of course I’d have to take a visit to the ‘Mecca of basketball’ and sit courtside at Madison Square Garden for a New York Knicks game. I can’t even imagine how cool it would’ve
been to have been there during this year’s NBA Finals, particularly the game in which the Knicks came back from 29 points down. I’ve never been to an AFL Grand Final, so that’s on the list, and I think Augusta would be something pretty special. Finally, I’d love to witness something like a Super Bowl. Grid iron is such a unique sport and the support is incredible. I know it’s held at a different venue every year, but it would be awesome to witness the spectacle. BLAIR: A place I would absolutely love to go is Wimbledon. I love the tennis and used to play a fair bit in my younger years. The history behind Wimbledon, the tradition and the beautiful elegance of the venue are to be admired. Sitting in the stands, watching a game on the grass with the sun shining and a cool beverage in hand, that is the stuff of dreams. While I’m over there, watching a game of cricket at Lords would be elite too. London...here I come. DAVE: Boys, we are so lucky here in Melbourne; like many others I’ve been to Melbourne Cups, Cox Plates, AFL Grand Finals, Australian Grand Prix’s, Boxing Day Tests, Australian Opens…and they’re only an hour tops up the road. Yes, Juzzy, I would love to go to Augusta; I remember getting up as a kid and watching it on the telly and it just looks like a place that belongs in heaven. My wife and I are both celebrating milestone birthdays in a couple of years…and tentative plans are in place to get to Augusta then. A British Open at St Andrews, a Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs and the Monaco Grand Prix would be others on the bucket list. And I’d love to go to one of those South American rivalry matches; Boca Juniors v River Plate or go to Spain and watch Real Madrid play Barcelona…I reckon they would be pretty cool. BLAIR: You’ve got an annual pilgrimage taking place this week haven’t you Dave? DAVE: Yes mate; I’ve missed a couple, but almost every year since 1988 I head down to Morwell on Caulfield Cup weekend to play in a snooker and darts tournament. Well, actually, it’s more of a catch up and drinking session with people I only see once a year and the snooker and darts get in the way. The snooker cue only comes out of the boot once a year; but I still crack it and wonder why I never improve without practice and being slightly inebriated when I play. BLAIR: Sounds like the perfect pilgrimage to me…although only slightly inebriated might be a stretch! DAVE: I can’t wait…and I can almost guarantee I’ll be a little fuzzy and green around the gills when we reconvene next week. We’ll talk then boys!
Thursday, 15 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 19
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