Thursday, 29 October, 2026
Phone: (03) 5945 0666 Trades & Classifieds: 1300 666 808
starcommunity.com.au FREE
Candidate forum
Annual report highlights
Greyhounds are back
Cobras cruise past Clyde
PAGE 4
PAGE 6
PAGE 12
SPORT
Put on your boots! Seniors Month was embraced with a morning of line dancing at Cardinia Life on Friday October 23. From beginners to experts and everyone in between, locals pulled up their boots and hit the dance floor. Photographer Stewart Chambers captured some of the action.
Line Dancing instructor Darren. (586018)
$1.5b still needed A damning audit finds fire authorities still require more funding to maintain and replace their trucks. The Victorian Auditor General’s Office (VAGO) have released a new report on 14 October, finding that fire authorities still require an estimated $1.5 billion to help maintain and re-
place their trucks and equipment. VAGO found that collectively, Victoria’s fire authorities need the billion-dollar estimate total between 2024–25 and 2033–34 to address critical fire truck replacement and upgrade needs. However, the audit found that within the state budgets between 2024 and 2027, fire authori-
ties only received 12.1 per cent of the estimated funding they need to address these issues. The audit found that CFA’s trucks have a median age of 16.4 years, with 56.9 per cent being at least 15 years old. This includes FRV trucks, with a median age of 16.1 years, with 59.8 per cent being at least
15 years old, and DEECA, with a median of 8.5 years, with 6.7 per cent being at least 15 years old. However, VAGO found that the CFA are the only fleet with trucks over 35 years old, with 2.3 per cent of its fleet in this category. STORY PAGE 2
BATTERY ZONE PAKENHAM, WARRAGUL, LEONGATHA, MOE
(03) 5922 2072 U2, 1 Stephenson Street PAKENHAM
Charlie is back at Pakenham
Shop 3/206 Princes H’way, Pakenham Ph: 5940 1364 43 Princes Way Warragul Ph: 5622 2324
12890168-AD32-26
Offering home delivery, click and collect 24/7 Battery Roadside Replacement Call 1300 BAT 247
LOCATIONS
12781081-EB26-25
Low Dose CT, Digital X-ray, Comprehensive Ultrasound Dental X-ray, Dexa or Bone Densitometry, Echocardiogram
12869611-CB21-26
NEWS
CFA severely underfunded By Ethan Henson A damning audit finds fire authorities still require more funding to maintain and replace their trucks. The Victorian Auditor General’s Office (VAGO) have released a new report on 14 October, finding that fire authorities still require an estimated $1.5 billion to help maintain and replace their trucks and equipment. VAGO found that collectively, Victoria’s fire authorities need the billion-dollar estimate total between 2024–25 and 2033–34 to address critical fire truck replacement and upgrade needs. However, the audit found that within the state budgets between 2024 and 2027, fire authorities only received 12.1 per cent of the estimated funding they need to address these issues. The audit found that CFA’s trucks have a median age of 16.4 years, with 56.9 per cent being at least 15 years old. This includes FRV trucks, with a median age of 16.1 years, with 59.8 per cent being at least 15 years old, and DEECA, with a median of 8.5 years, with 6.7 per cent being at least 15 years old. However, VAGO found that the CFA are the
VAGO audit finds that fire authorities are only a quarter of the funding they need to help maintain and replace equipment and trucks. (File) only fleet with trucks over 35 years old, with 2.3 per cent of its fleet in this category. The audit comes after the CFA rally that took place in Melbourne outside Parliament House on Friday 9 October.
The rally saw firefighters across Victoria join together, calling for safer vehicles and the removal of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) levy, which was introduced last year. Wairewa Fire Station captain Jadon Dennis,
who stopped at Officer BP service station on his way to Parliament during the rally day, said aging tankers were a major concern. “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.” Since 2021, the audit found that the CFA has completed 94.9 per cent of its scheduled maintenance, while FRV has only completed 67.9 per cent and DEECA with 85.5 per cent. However, the report finds that out of the scheduled maintenance fire authorities have completed, they have only completed 58.2 per cent on time. The audit concluded that not meeting the scheduled maintenance could lead to more breakdowns. This includes increasing the risk of fire authorities not having enough fit-for-purpose fire trucks to respond to fires and other emergencies.
One Nation pledges more help with food for the homeless By Afraa Kori One Nation has pledged to expand crisis accommodation and offer housing incentives to landlords and employers in a bid to tackle homelessness and rental stress across Victoria. One Nation Victoria leader Warren Pickering called homelessness a “national disgrace”, blaming a “broken rental market” and a shortfall in social and crisis housing. “Around 35 per cent of renters are in rental stress, more than 30,000 people are homeless in our state, and more than a thousand sleep rough on a given night,” he said. “We are seeing rough sleepers everywhere, from country towns to the Melbourne CBD, because there’s nowhere else for them to go. That changes under a One Nation government.” The proposed measures include dedicated crisis accommodation beds in every region, including for women and children escaping family violence, and statewide funding for the By-Name List, which connects people experiencing homelessness with housing and support services. The party also pledged to expand crisis, transitional and temporary accommodation to prevent people from being forced to sleep rough. Mr Pickering proposed a statewide trial of land tax exemptions for landlords who lease properties, including short-stay accommodation, to the state or community housing providers for 12-month tenancies. “This creates immediate housing stock for only about a third the cost of motel accommodation that’s currently being used,” he said.
The party would also trial wage subsidies or payroll tax offsets for employers hiring people on the By-Name List and create entrylevel state government jobs for people exiting homelessness. Mr Pickering said people would be offered accommodation through outreach workers before authorities enforced move-on powers against those camping or squatting in highvisibility public areas. The pledge comes amid growing political attention on housing and cost-of-living pressures, following Federal Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and Monash MP Mary Aldred’s visit to Baw Baw Food Relief in Warragul on September 30. Baw Baw Food Relief vice president Mark Kleeman told the Gazette earlier this month that the organisation had assisted about 5500 families over the past 12 months, providing food for roughly 16,000 people. Mr Kleeman said demand continued to rise, with more young families, young adults and pensioners seeking assistance. “The demand has increased every single year,” he said. “We’re not seeing a decline in people in need. “It’s just horrendous that this is happening in our country that is so well resourced. We’re such a wealthy country, but we can’t look after our homeless.” He described emergency food relief as a “band-aid” for the wider homelessness crisis, calling on governments to prioritise the issue and adequately fund long-term solutions.
One Nation Victoria leader Warren Pickering has pledged to expand crisis accommodation to address homelessness. (Gary Sissons)
CALL NOW starcommunity.com.au
For a FREE measure and quote
CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666 EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au
2 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 29 October, 2026
2 Tango Circuit Pakenham (off Commercial Drive) 12522838-BL47-21
Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108. Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas. All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au
5940 2166 12870712-MC21-26
Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600
www.clarksblinds.com.au 12736473-JV50-24
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Council approves new retail plan in Officer Cardinia Shire Council has approved a planning permit for a new retail development in Officer town centre. The development will be located on Siding Avenue near the corner of Princes Highway and will be anchored by a 3,675 sqm Coles supermarket, plus 10 speciality stores, a two-storey gymnasium, and 190 car parking spaces. Associated infrastructure works will include changes to Siding Avenue to provide vehicle access to the site and construction of Orchard Street along the site’s northern boundary. Cardinia Shire Mayor Brett Owen said the development would make a positive difference to the Officer town centre and help support the needs of the growing population. “Cardinia Shire Council welcomes businesses choosing to invest in our community, and this development is good news for the community and local economy,” Cr Owen said. “New retail developments like this create local jobs, support economic growth and provide greater access to shopping, services and everyday conveniences closer to home. “As our community continues to grow, it’s important we support well-planned development that contributes to vibrant local centres and
meets the needs of current and future residents.” Councillor Samantha-Jane Potter said the development would contribute to the growth of the precinct and provide additional retail and service options for the local community. “This is the type of development many residents have been looking forward to seeing in Officer town centre,” Cr Potter said. “It’s exciting to see investment that will bring more shopping options, services and activity to the heart of our community. “Developments like this help create a sense of place and ensure residents can access what they need close to where they live.” Mayor Owen said Council was committed to advocating for the activation of Officer Town Centre. In 2023, Council approved a planning permit application for a small format supermarket, six retail stores, office suites and 270 car parking spaces at the north-west corner of Princes Highway and Starling Road, Officer. Council is also currently considering an application for a Woolworths supermarket and associated retail premises and car parking at the corner of Princes Highway and Whiteside Road, Beaconsfield.
Councillor Samantha-Jane Potter and Mayor Brett Owen. (Supplied)
Dyson said Officer families deserve a proper heart for their suburb. (Supplied) Southside Racing member Frank Tyler from Maryknoll buys a pin from Backpacks 4 Vic Kids founder Sally Beard.
Pins back kids’ charity
Pakenham Liberal Candidate, Radmila Dyson, pledges to help push the development of the Officer Town Centre. (Supplied)
Pledge for development By Ethan Henson The Liberal Party have announced its pledge to assist Cardinia Shire Council with the retail development of Officer. Pakenham Liberal candidate Radmila Dyson and Opposition Deputy Leader David Southwick MP have announced their pledge to help with the development of the Officer Town Centre, on Saturday 24 October. The pledge is to direct Development Victoria to release land around Officer Station to enable private-sector investment in supermarkets, cafes and restaurants, and community facilities. They said the aim of the pledge is to help families and residents living around Officer no longer be forced to travel to Pakenham or Beaconsfield to either shop or eat. After expecting Officer’s population to grow from 28,000 to almost 38,000 over the next decade, Dyson said the suburb has grown fast, but the town centre hasn’t kept up. “Right now if you live in Officer, you get in
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
the car to buy groceries or catch up for a coffee,” she said. “Families here deserve a proper heart for their suburb, close to the station and close to home. “A Liberal and Nationals Government will deliver a town centre for the residents of Officer.” With the town centre planned for a decade, Southwick MP said Officer families are still waiting for it to open. “This is a simple decision that costs taxpayers nothing. Release the land, let the private sector build, and give Officer the shops and jobs it was promised,” he said. However, the Liberal Party haven’t announced the development timeline if elected, and neither has the council. This announcement follows the council’s approval of the retail development in Officer on 22 October. Council approved a planning permit application for a small format supermarket, six retail
Children in need are poised to be the big winners out of this year’s Southside Racing Carnival. Proceeds of lapel pins being sold for the Cranbourne Cup on Saturday 21 November and the centenary Pakenham Cup on Saturday 12 December will directly benefit the Cranbourne-based Backpacks 4 Vic Kids charity. The partnership was announced at last Thursday’s carnival launch at Hawksbury Street Park in Pakenham – the site of the old racecourse – and founder Sally Beard gave an outline of the charity’s work. Backpacks 4 VIC Kids provides essential material aid to children entering out-ofhome care, emergency accommodation, or experiencing homelessness or crisis. These help restore dignity and comfort to vulnerable, displaced young people through five tailored pack programs: My Essentials (ME) Packs: Core crisis packs featuring age-appropriate clothing, toiletries, books, torches, and toys for children sized 0000 to 18. Supporting Education (SE) Packs: Backto-school supplies - including stationery, drink bottles, and lunchboxes—tailored to support learning. Youth Outreach (YO) Packs: Lightweight, practical packs containing a change of clothes, slides, toiletries, and notepad for homeless or at-risk youth.Disaster Relief (DS) Packs: Customized aid packs with weather- and location-specific supplies for children displaced by natural disasters. Christmas 4 Kids in Care Santa Packs: Festive Santa sacks filled with gifts, books, and toys to bring joy during the holidays.
· Opposition Deputy Leader David Southwick MP said it will cost taxpayers nothing to open the state-owned land. (Supplied) stores, office suites and 270 car parking spaces in 2023. The development is now expected to include a 3,675sqm Coles supermarket, as well as 10 speciality stores, a two-storey gymnasium and 190 car parking spaces. Cardinia Shire Mayor Brett Owen said the development would make a positive difference to Officer by generating jobs, supporting economic growth and helping support the needs of the growing population.
· ·
·
Thursday, 29 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 3
NEWS
Narracan candidates got a chance to have small debates and meet the community to answer questions on how they will solve local issues. (Ethan Henson)
Sitting member for Narracan, Wayne Farnham, said he still wants to make a difference for the community. (Supplied: Warragul Gazette)
Narracan meets candidates By Ethan Henson Candidates meet face to face to answer questions the community have been eager to ask, as election time draws near. Narracan candidates faced off in a series of important community questions at the Warragul
Downtowner on Tuesday 27 October. The panel of candidates was met with a filled room of about 100 people at the Downtowner, telling voters why they should support them. The panel introduced: Member for Narracan, Liberal Wayne Farnham
·
Have your say Help shape Council’s budget priorities! Planning is now underway for Cardinia Shire Council's 2027–28 Budget, and the community is invited to help shape Council's priorities for the year ahead. Whether you live, work and spend time in Cardinia Shire, this is your opportunity to help shape Council’s priorities and how available funding is allocated across community needs. Have your say by: • Visiting our Creating Cardinia engagement platform and completing the Community Priorities Survey or using the Fund It tool.
· Greens candidate Alyssa Weaver · Labor candidate Jannette Langely · One Nation candidate Ben Lucas · Victorian Socialists candidate Moss Page · Family First candidate Geoff Dethlefs To start the eventful night, each candidate was told to introduce themselves, with some introductions surprising the crowd. Socialist Page migrated to Australia 13 years ago from travelling around the world after he left Iran during high school, wanting to give the love he has for Australia back to the people. One Nation’s Lucas said he grew up in Drouin and is worried about the same infrastructure that stands despite a growing population, encouraging him to join council at first and now politics. Family First’s Dethlefs was more Christianfocused in his introduction to the crowd, wanting society to go back to what used to make it good. Current member for Narracan, Liberal Party’s Wayne Farnham, said he simply wants to run again because he wants to make a difference for the community, wanting people to live better, especially after the “cost of living killing everyone”. The Greens Party’s Weaver grew up as the daughter of a butcher, despite being in the Greens Party, and she said she wants to see the community thrive, support farmers, high-quality education, and meaningful climate action. Labor Party’s Langely said she has seen firsthand the pressures and struggles of local families and wants to become a strong voice advocating for them and caring for the Narracan people. Once introductions were made, questions were asked on frequent topics found in the news and the wider Narracan community. Addressing the energy infrastructure, such as the two BESS projects and the Bunyip North
Quarry, Farnham said all projects should be subject to community consultation. “We can’t cut the community out of these vicinities, it’s actually not fair on that community, whether it’s the best projects here or there in the West out on the other side of the state,” he said. “There’s nothing terribly wrong with renewable, but they may have a better location than our prime agricultural land where we need to protect our food and fibre. That is a no-brainer.” Weaver said the Samsung Batteries are a prime example of why there shouldn’t be private corporations in charge of our energy network. “The Greens back publicly owned renewables and storage so that we, as a community, don’t just get consulted, we own the projects,” she said. “We put them in appropriate locations, and we see direct community benefit from them, including farmers and landowners reaping the benefits and not just being an afterthought.” Langley said battery storage systems can have real benefits to the community, make electricity supply more reliable and support the transition into clean energy. “As more renewable energy comes onto the grid, excess electricity can be stored in batteries rather than go to waste,” she said. “The benefit of transmission is a more reliable electricity supply, better use of clean energy and a stronger power supply.” Questions were then asked to the panel by the community regarding homelessness, housing, mental health services, forestry, and education. The night ended with the community getting a chance to talk to the candidates one-on-one, introduce themselves, and ask further questions about issues raised during the panel.
• Making a written submission. • Attending one of our community pop-up sessions. Feedback closes 16 November. For more information, and to provide feedback, please visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
12912232-KA44-26
4 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 29 October, 2026
The crowd consisted of about 100 people, asking questions about why they should vote for each candidate. (Supplied: Warragul Gazette)
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Have your say on future data centres derstanding of this emerging issue. “We want to understand what matters most to our residents, businesses and landowners when it comes to potential future data centre development in Casey, including the opportunities people see and any impacts or concerns they believe should be considered,” she said. “The feedback we receive will help inform Council’s future advocacy and discussions with the Victorian Government and other relevant stakeholders.” Since Council’s September resolution, the State Government has released its Sustainable Data Centre Action Plan, outlining the future direction for data centre development in Victoria. Cr Crowther said hearing directly from the Casey community was particularly important as the
policy landscape continued to develop. “The Victorian Government will develop statewide planning policy for data centres next year, and we want the views of the Casey community to help inform Council’s input and advocacy as that work progresses,” she said. “This consultation gives our community an opportunity to tell us what matters most to them, so we can bring those priorities and concerns to future discussions with the State Government.” The consultation is focused on potential future data centre development in Casey and is not related to any current planning permit application, development proposal or specific site, including the proposed Clyde North data centre at 585 Berwick-Cranbourne Road. This reflects the distinction Council made in
Rain fails to dampen data-centre rally By Violet Li Residents braved heavy rain to rally against the proposed Clyde North data centres on Sunday 25 October. Organisers said the cold and wet conditions forced some speakers and supporters to cancel, but dozens still gathered under marquees at Vantage Avenue Reserve to raise concerns about the proposal, with objection forms available for residents to submit to the City of Casey. Greens Narre Warren South candidate Jill Nambu estimated about 40 people attended despite the weather, describing conditions as ‘freezing’. About seven people delivered speeches at the rally. Concerns raised on the day also included electricity and water usage, climate change, noise, the accessibility of planning documents, and a lack of community consultation. Ms Nambu criticised the fact that residents need to visit Bunjil Place to inspect detailed application documents rather than being able to access the full material online. She questioned whether the project would deliver enough jobs for land set aside for employment. The wider Croskell Employment Precinct, where the proposed data centres would stand at, had been promoted as creating about 6000 jobs, while the proposed data centre was expected to provide about 350 permanent jobs despite occupying a significant portion of the land. Ms Nambu said local employment was particularly important in a rapidly growing area like Clyde North. “There are so many homes around there. Who wants to travel to the city? Even Dandenong South is hard to get to because they don’t have a train station over there. That’s another story,” she said. “Driving to Dandenong South is also really tough with all that traffic.” Greens Berwick candidate Roshan De Silva also attended the rally and his speech focused on the potential broader economic and environmental impacts of data centres. “All these data centres are affecting climate change if they don’t do renewable projects to power up them and just use the normal power that we have and it is going to drive up the power prices for everybody,” he said. “We have a net zero by 2050, and Australia will never achieve that target if we don’t get through proper regulation of these ones. “All these data centre builds are using massive amounts of building materials, and that is increasing the price for everybody. That could bankrupt some of the smaller builders because of that.” Local resident Macca McKenzie, who attended the rally, said the strongest message he heard from residents was that many felt they had not been properly consulted or given enough information about the proposal. “The number one feedback that I hear is that people haven’t been consulted,” he said. “They don’t know about this. They haven’t found out about the data centre. So, they’re re-
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
its September announcement, which separated the broader consultation and advocacy work from the statutory assessment of individual planning permit applications. Feedback gathered through the engagement will help Council identify community priorities, concerns and expectations and inform issues Council may advocate on as data centre development continues to emerge across Victoria. Community consultation is open from 22 October to 15 November 2026. To provide feedback, visit: conversations.casey.vic.gov.au/data-centres
$20m pledge If re-elected in November, the Labor government has pledged a $20.8 million upgrade to a Narre Warren public school. The investment in Fountain Gate Secondary College will go towards its community stadium and theatre. Labor says that the school deserves “modern” and “fit for purpose facilities”. The upgrade will aim to serve the school and the wider community, according to Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson. "It's about giving local students the best opportunities to learn, perform and thrive, while making our community an even better place to live,” Wilson said.
MELB O URNE
Residents braved heavy rain to rally against the proposed Clyde North data centres on Sunday 25 October. (Supplied)
Banjo Paterson Park (playground end) Lynbrook Saturday December 5, 2026 10AM - 7 PM • Children Activities • Pasifika Food & Merchandise • Arts & Crafts
• Guests Artists • Traditional Dance • Rugby Clinic
Greens South East upper house candidate Matthew Kirwan, Greens Cranbourne candidate Annalise Mercer, Greens Narre Warren South candidate Jill Nambu, and Greens Berwick candidate Roshan De Silva at the rally. ally desperate for information.” Mr McKenzie said some residents questioned whether they would remain in the area if the development proceeded. He also called for the detailed planning documents to be published online and said requiring residents to inspect documents in person disadvantaged working families and people who could not easily travel to Bunjil Place. Mr McKenzie said there would be a statewide rally organised by the Victorian Alliance Against AI Data Centers on 14 November, with participants planning to march from the
State Library to Parliament House. The alliance is calling for a moratorium on AI data centres and stronger requirements for communities to be informed and consulted before developments proceed. The proposed Casey Data Park at 585 Berwick-Cranbourne Road would be developed across a 53.6-hectare site, with two data centre buildings and a maximum IT capacity of 488 megawatts planned to be delivered in stages over about eight years. The planning application will be decided by Casey councillors in a future council meeting.
12911528-JD43-26
The City of Casey is inviting the community to have its say on potential future data centre development in Casey, with community consultation now open. Council will use this feedback to inform its advocacy to the State Government for changes to the current planning framework, including stronger planning policies and greater community consultation requirements. The consultation follows Council’s September Council Meeting decision to seek community feedback to better understand local views, concerns and expectations about data centre development. City of Casey Mayor Cr Michelle Crowther said the consultation was an important opportunity for the community to help shape Council’s un-
The consultation is focused on potential future data centre development in Casey and is not related to any current planning permit application, including the proposed Clyde North data centre at 585 Berwick-Cranbourne Road. (FILE)
Thursday, 29 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 5
NEWS
Wrap up of council activity Council have released their 2025 to 2026 Annual Report, providing the community with an overview of what they have and wants to achieve. Cardinia Shire Council have recently revealed and endorsed their Annual Report for 2025 to 2026 during the council meeting on Monday 19 October. The Annual Report provides the community with an overview of Council’s performance over the past financial year. Councillor Samantha-Jane Potter said everything they have achieved is about the people and believes the annual report reflects that, but recognises the continuous challenges ahead. “We need to keep reaching people who don’t always find it easy to engage with Council, including our multicultural communities, people with disabilities and others whose voices may not always be heard,” Cr Potter said. “I am genuinely so proud of what has been
achieved but also honest about the challenges ahead, the cost of living pressures, growth, infrastructure, financial sustainability and protecting the environment and character of Cardinia Shire.” However, Councillor David Nickell urged residents to read the report, due to “mind-boggling” items on pages 79 to 81. “That’s where we start talking about our infrastructure and development contributions, and this is a really complex part of our operation,” Cr Nickell said. “I’m personally looking forward to actually getting my head around a little bit more over the next 12 to 18 months to understand. “Whether the developer contribution plans and the ICPs, how far they actually go to finishing the job on building these new suburbs and how much the ratepayers are left to pick up. “The numbers look impressive on paper, but how much they actually achieve in building the
complete suburb, I don’t know.” Cardinia Mayor Councillor Brett Owen said the report demonstrates the council’s work towards building liveable and connected communities. “It tells the story of how Council has worked towards delivering our collective vision while continuing to respond to the needs of one of Victoria’s fastest growing communities,” Mayor Owen said. “Across the report you’ll see how those strategic objectives translate into tangible outcomes for our community. “From supporting thousands of families through maternal child health services, youth programmes, libraries and community facilities to creating opportunities for people to connect and thrive.” In their report, it included a list of achievements that they have accomplished over the past
year, such as:
Supporting local families through more than · 21,000 Maternal and Child Health consultations and more than 2,500 community kindergarten enrolments. Helping more than 850 residents access support through Bring Your Bills Day, helping to resolve over $1.5 million in debt. Creating opportunities for young people through more than 22,500 youth service interactions. Restoring local habitat and biodiversity throughout the shire, including the establishment of more than 16,000 indigenous plants in Emerald alone. Supporting housing growth and development with almost 2,000 building applications issued. To read the annual report, visit: cardinia.vic. gov.au/about-council/governance-and-transparency/annual-reports
· · · ·
Project highlights over the past year from annual report Following the release of council’s annual report at the October meeting, here’s a highlight of key projects and timelines for 2025-26. Cardinia Youth Hub Construction of the Cardinia Youth Hub is progressing, with the project expected to be completed by late 2027. The project has been plagued by delays following the collapse of the builder and the subsequent demolition of the partially constructed building in 2025. Funding: $9.6 million jointly funded by council, state and federal governments. Better Local Roads – Strategic Sealed Roads program Council has sealed 8.6km of local roads as part of the program. Construction has been completed on Bessie Creek Road in Nar Nar Goon North and Huxtable Road in Pakenham Upper, with the entire lengths of these roads now sealed and reopened. Final seal works are scheduled to be completed during the second half of 2026, once the new road pavement has settled. Funding: $21.8 million jointly funded by council and the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program. Kooweerup Netball Court redevelopment Construction began in February 2026 and was expected to be completed in spring 2026 (conditions permitting). Works were continuing on the Kooweerup netball court upgrades. Progress includes the installation of new lighting, concreting, shelters and fencing works. The remaining works include paving for specialised sports acrylic surface and line marking. These pavement works require several consecutive days of warmer, dry weather to allow the surface to be laid and cured properly. To ensure the courts are finished to the required standard, final works have been rescheduled for spring this year. Funding: $960,000 jointly funded by council, the Victorian Government and the Koo Wee Rup Netball Club. Princes Highway intersection program Planning underway for the following intersections: Arena Parade and Princes Highway intersection, Officer – in design. Thewlis Road and Princes Highway intersection, Pakenham – design complete and progressing with approvals with relevant authorities. Funding: $38.25 million funded by Council, the Australian Government’s Princes Highway Intersection Upgrades – Pakenham to Beaconsfield, and the Victorian Government’s Growth Areas Infrastructure Contributions fund. Sealing the Hills program Council sealed the following local road packages: Mt Burnett Road, Mount Burnett Old Gembrook Road package, Emerald Stoney Creek package, Beaconsfield Upper Design is underway for Mountain Road, Cockatoo and Ure Road, Gembrook. While a significant portion of the program has been successfully completed, the with-
The Youth Hub is being rebuilt and is expected to be completed in late 2027. (586015)
· ·
· · ·
6 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 29 October, 2026
drawal of $109 million in committed Australian Government funding in 2023 reduced the overall scope of the program. Funding: $46.25 million in funding from the Australian Government, Council and landowner contributions via a special
charge scheme. Other highlights Drainage program - $595,803 (funded by council). Local Area Traffic Improvements program $648,707 (jointly funded by council and the
· ·
Victorian Government).
· Swimming facilities renewal program $385,964 (funded by council). · Cockatoo Community Kindergarten upgrade - $837,477 (funded by the Victorian Government).
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
OPINION
We are Australian racing’s major player By Group Editor Garry Howe There used to be four “majors” in Australasian racing – the Melbourne Cup, the Caulfield Cup, the Cox Plate and the Golden Slipper in Sydney. The disrupters north of the border have added another, The Everest, run on Caulfield Cup Day. It’s the richest race in the Southern Hemisphere and for the past two years has attracted a horse currently considered the best in the world. Incredibly, four of those races have been run and won in 2026 – and all have gone to locals. The Cranbourne-based training combination of Mick Price and Michael Kent Junior started the run when Guest House brought the Slipper home during the autumn carnival. Then the weekend before last the Ciaron Maher-trained Tempted upset the applecart in Sydney by toppling the world’s best horse, the Hong Kong-based Ka Ying Rising, in The Everest. That same day former jumps jockey Gavin Bedggood saddled up his striking grey stayer Kingswood to win the Caulfield Cup. Both Maher and Bedggood train out of the Cranbourne complex. Then last Saturday Pakenham-based trainer Andrea Leek won the Cox Plate with West Australian-owned Cosmic Crusader, sending racing pundits to the record books. Andrea, also a former jumps jockey, became only the third woman to throw a saddle over a Cox Plate winner and the only one to have done that after riding a Grand National Hurdle winner – a feat she achieved in 2004 on Team Heritage, trained by her husband John Leek.
Next Tuesday, locals are again tipped to feature prominently in the race that stops a nation. Ciaron Maher alone looks like having as many as eight runners, including the current favourite Point Of Law. So, there’s every chance this region could lay claim to all five major racing events this year. A few years ago, the Pakenham and Cranbourne clubs combined to form Southside Racing. The view was that a combined club, with metropolitan status, would have a seat at the table with racing’s powerbrokers. The dominance of Southside-based horses in the racing majors this year suggest that move was a masterstroke. The worry when the two clubs merged was that the history of both would be lost in the transition. Thankfully, that hasn’t happened. This year Southside Racing intends to make a big deal of the fact that the 100th Pakenham Cup will be run on Saturday 12 December. That will follow the Cranbourne Cup on Saturday 21 November. Southside chairman Sean Clarkson said the combined club ploughed about $300,000 into the community through its grants program and had an economic impact of around $300 million to the region. There are 25,000 members of the racing centres and venues and 2000 equivalent full-time jobs created by the 1500 horses trained each day out of both training centres. So, racing is a big thing locally – and is set to become even bigger just after 3pm on the first Tuesday in November. - Cranbourne dogs racing resumes, turn to page 12
Pakenham trainer Andrea Leek and jockey William Pike share a laugh after winning the Cox Plate with Cosmic Crusader at Flemington on Saturday (AAP Photos).
12911836-JD44-26
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 29 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 7
NEWS
Among those leading this year’s Relay were Pakenham siblings Abbie and Thomas Soutter, who cut the ribbon at the start of the event.
Among those leading this year’s Relay were Pakenham siblings Abbie and Thomas Soutter, who cut the ribbon at the start of the event. (Supplied)
The walk began on the evening of Saturday 24 October and continued until midday on Sunday 25 October despite persistent rain.
Hope walks through the rain By Violet Li Hundreds of participants braved wet weather at the 2026 Casey Relay For Life, walking through the night to raise money for Cancer Council and remember those affected by cancer. About 350 people took part in the event at Casey Fields in Cranbourne East, which began on the evening of Saturday 24 October and continued until midday on Sunday 25 October despite persistent rain. Committee member and Endeavour Hills local Morgan Gunning said weather conditions were better than last year, with Saturday relatively mild and no rain overnight, before wetter weather arrived on Sunday. Participants were kept busy with scavenger hunts, fun laps, inflatable archery, line dancing, Zumba, live entertainment and overnight movies. “We make the event big and different every year, but there’s also a lot of staples that we run every year. It’s got an incredible community feeling event, and it’s just very special in lots of different ways,” Ms Gunning said. “Because the slogan is ‘Celebrate, Remember, Fight back’, so we’re both uplifting with fundraising and different things like the market and the activities and entertainment and food vendors, but then we’ve also got a solid hour where it’s just remembering people who’ve passed. “Cancer has touched everybody in some sort of way, whether it’s a friend or your grandmother or your mom, and whether they’ve fought an incredible battle and survived or whether they have passed. “And I think that’s what makes it such a community event that everybody can be involved in some sort of way. And you get one person who’s really, really connected and enthusiastic about it, and they will, like me, rope just about everybody in their in their village involved.” The event had raised about $86,000 at the time of the writing, against a $100,000 target, with fundraising remaining open for several weeks. Among those leading this year’s Relay were Pakenham siblings Abbie and Thomas Soutter, who cut the ribbon at the start of the event.
Their family has participated in Relay For Life for about 17 years after losing family members to cancer. Their family team started with around six members and has grown significantly over the years, with about 20 taking part this year. Abbie, 20, and Thomas, 22, have been involved since they were young children. They stepped into leadership roles this year while their parents, Michael and Jody Soutter, were overseas preparing to take part in the New York Marathon. Michael, who was featured by Star News last year for his running and Relay For Life fundraising, has remained one of the family’s driving forces behind its involvement. Despite this year’s rain, Abbie and Thomas said participants continued walking and supporting each other. “Everyone came together; everyone did their part. And we got through it together as a team,” they said. “The committee does a really beautiful job every year of organizing an event that is about respecting everyone who has been touched by cancer, but they also make it very fun. “And all the teams this year really did a very good job. There were lots on offer, lots of activities, lots of people selling really cool things, and it’s just all such a fun time.” Ms Gunning said watching participants continue in the rain was one of the weekend’s standout moments. “Just credit to the Casey community and all the people that come to Relay For Life who stuck it out. Totally understandable to the ones that went home. I do not blame them. I didn’t bring my kids the second day and things like that,” she said. “But massive, massive credit to the ones that stuck it out and us as a committee trying to decide whether we’re going to close early or keep going in the rain and looking out there and seeing all those participants who just didn’t care. “They just kept walking. They’re like, nope, this is what we’re here for. “Cancer fight is harder than walking in the rain.”
About 350 people took part in the event.
The crowd.
8 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 29 October, 2026
Among those leading this year’s Relay were Pakenham siblings Abbie and Thomas Soutter, who cut the ribbon at the start of the event.
Hundreds of participants braved wet weather at this year’s Casey Relay For Life.
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
12912403-JD44-26
BATTERY ZONE Offering home delivery, click and collect 24/7 Battery Roadside Replacement Call 1300 BAT 247 Charlie is back at Pakenham Shop 3/206 Princes H’way, Pakenham Ph: 5940 1364 8 43 Princes Way Warragul Ph: 5622 2324
MELBOURNE CUP SWEEP
2
12908962-KA44-26
www.kiallahomes.com.au
1st Prize - NOVOTEL GLEN WAVERLEY One nights stay for 2 in a standard room, breakfast and onsite parking at the Novotel in Glen Waverley. Readers - to be in our Melbourne Cup Sweep, simply enter at starcommunity. com.au/competitions and click on CUP SWEEP. Entries close on Melbourne Cup Day -Tuesday 3rd November at 12pm. See website for conditions on entry.
Dand W Bull Family Funerals ...the little things make a big difference Pakenham 190 Princes Highway 5941 4888 0436 414 300 www.davidwbull.com.au
21
12910217-MS44-26
12908537-MS43-26
Draw a horse in our Melbourne Cup Sweep and WIN!
19 12909715-KH43-26
WE MAKE CASEY CARDINIA SMILE Orthodontic Treatment for children and adults utilising the latest technologies including SureSmile, Invisalign, lingual and clear appliances.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5.30 pm Suite 5, Level 1/18-24 Clyde Rd, Berwick Phone: (03) 9330 0702 | info@seortho.com.au www.seortho.com.au
24/7
0429 920 241 In your time of need
“Remember Brember” 20/167 Princes Hwy, Hallam 0429 92023241 bremberfamilyfunerals.
1
20/167 Princes Hwy, Hallam bremberfamilyfunerals.com
12910241-AD43-26
3
12910758-JO44-26
We offer flexible, interest free payment plans to make orthodontics accessible to everyone. Strict hygiene and physical distancing policies in place.
12911772-JO44-26
12908411-JD44-26
Family Owned
In your time of need “Remember Brember”
13
We ensure your pool or spa is safe, compliant and ready for certification. Based in Officer and proudly servicing all of Victoria 0447 443 618 www.lakesidebuilding.com.au
15
12908406-AD44-26
12908641-AD44-26
12909063-RV44-26
We take the stress out of pool compliance
20
18
10
7
(03) 5941 6111
✔ Custom Designed Tanks ✔ Custom Fabrication
admin@barrybrown.com.au
12
4
With results you can rely on. Delivers. Excellence. Together.
16
BERWICK (03) 9707 1400 @barryplant.berwick berwick@barryplant.com.au
03 5941 3000 | www.rowo.com.au 6
Directors: David Wouters, Hayden Smart, Jake Rabl, Jason Robertson, & David Smith
Whether selling or leasing your property, you have our strength in numbers.
14
9
Our 3 offices will deliver you outstanding results. PAKENHAM (03) 5941 1977 @barryplant.pakenham pakenham@barryplant.com.au
WARRAGUL-DROUIIN (03) 5625 3006 @barryplant.drouin drouin@barryplant.com.au
WARRAGUL (03) 5622 3333 @arrypant.warragul warragul@barryplant.com.au
12908236-AF44-26
✔ Stainless Steel Tanks ✔ Glycol Chillers
12908251-MS44-26
STAINLESS STEEL TANKS & CHILLERS
26 Main Street, Pakenham VIC 3810 3a/24 Mason Street, Warragul VIC 3820 (by appointment only)
12909705-JO44-26
Accountants & Business Advisors
22
11
17
24
12908568-RV43-26
5
202610229649_1-EB43-26
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 29 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
Warneet/ Blight Bight CFA members Sarah Whitmore, Mark Kanieczny, Michele Mircev, Scott Appledore (Emergency Management City of Casey), Ian Shiel (Lions Tooradin), Naomi Pedler and Chris Hayes.
Local Ken Drane had a chook and a rooster on the back of his ute.
McKinley and Akayla at their stall at Blind Bight Community Centre. (Stewart Chambers: 583191)
Kate Campbell from Bella Brewers.
Bargains boost local CFA Bargain hunters turned out in force for the Warneet Blind Bight CFA Mega Garage Sale on Saturday 24 October, helping raise $1500 for the local fire brigade. The event featured 27 garage sales and four car boot sales across Warneet and Blind Bight,
with crowds arriving early despite light drizzle and the threat of heavier rain. Organisers said a number of stallholders reported strong sales throughout the day. CFA volunteers were also kept busy serving food from 8am at the Blind Bight Community
Centre and Warneet Fire Station. Egg and bacon rolls proved particularly popular, while sausages were served for lunch and coffee was available from Bella Brewers and Dream Coffee. The event raised $1500, which will go
towards improving facilities at the Warneet-Blind Bight fire station. Brigade treasurer Patricia Bourchier thanked the community and volunteers who helped make the fundraiser a success.
Check enrolment status for poll By Carmela Mendoza Warneet/ Blight Bight CFA members Hans DeKraker and Patricia Bouchier.
McKinley and Akayla at their stall at Blind Bight Community Centre.
Linda bought a Spiderman outfit at a garage sale.
Major parties pitch transport savings By Violet Li Transport costs have emerged as a major election issue, with Labor promising $30 weekly caps on both tolls and public transport fares, the Coalition offering a longer-running $50 toll cap, and the Greens pledging to make public transport permanently free. Labor announced on Sunday 18 October that, if re-elected, it would cap toll-road spending at $30 a week throughout 2027 for cars, motorbikes and light commercial vehicles using CityLink, EastLink and the West Gate Tunnel. Drivers would continue to pay tolls normally before claiming a quarterly rebate through Service Victoria for eligible spending above $30 a week. The rebate would be capped at $350 a week and $5000 per vehicle across the year, with small businesses able to claim for up to five vehicles. Labor estimates a car travelling the full length of EastLink every weekday could save about $2500 over the year. The one-year policy is expected to cost $191 million. On Monday 19 October, Labor announced a separate $30 weekly public transport fare
10 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 29 October, 2026
cap from 1 January 2027. The cap would run for two years and apply across trains, trams and buses, with concession fares capped at $15 a week. Labor says a full-time commuter currently travelling five days a week would save $27 a week, or more than $1400 a year. The public transport measure is costed at $206 million over two years. The pledge follows Labor’s temporary fare relief measures this year, which included free public transport for two months and half-price fares by the end of the year. The Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS) welcomes the Labor’s commitment to cap public transport fares at $30 a week, and $15 a week for concession holders. “A fare cap is good policy on many fronts: good for household budgets, road congestion, and the climate,” VCOSS CEO Juanita Pope said. “The lower public transport cap for concession card holders is particularly welcome, because Victorians doing it tough are hit hardest by transport costs. “We want to see whoever forms government build on this, so Victorians on low incomes can afford to travel, wherever they need to go.” However, the organisation warned that af-
fordability would remain an issue after Labor’s two-year commitment ends. It called for future governments to maintain and index concessions, automatically provide concessions to eligible Victorians, extend concession fares to postgraduate students, and improve bus frequency and coverage in underserved areas. The Liberal-Nationals had earlier announced their own toll relief policy in August, promising a $50 weekly cap for two years from 1 July 2027. Their policy would apply to cars and light commercial vehicles, including small-business fleets of up to five vehicles, with motorists similarly claiming quarterly rebates through Service Victoria. The Coalition says more than 100,000 Victorian families and small businesses would benefit. The Victorian Greens have promised to make all public transport permanently free. The party says the policy would save commuters more than $220 a month and cites Parliamentary Budget Office modelling estimating permanent free public transport would cost about $940 million a year. At the time of writing, One Nation Victoria has not announced any relevant policy.
The Victorian Electoral Commission is reminding Victorians to enrol before Tuesday 3 November as the State Election approaches. Enrolment and voting are compulsory for all Victorians who are Australian citizens aged 18 years and over. Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel is calling for voters to check their enrolment status. “If you’ve moved recently or are voting for the first time, check your enrolment is up to date before the electoral roll closes,” he said. “Every vote counts, so it’s important that everyone is ready to play their part at this year’s state election.” First-time voters who will turn 18 years old on or before the election date, 28 November, are told to check if they need to enrol as well. ■ Eligible voters will be able to cast their vote: ■ In person at an early voting centre or election day voting centre ■ By applying for a postal vote, telephone-assisted voting or braille voting ■ At mobile voting sites in community areas, including aged care, hospitals and prisons, and low sensory voting across all 88 districts ■ While travelling overseas and interstate The VEC is mailing an EasyVote guide to Victorian households with key information about the state election, including voting options. Voters can also sign up to the free VoterAlert service at the VEC website to receive election reminders by SMS and email. More information at 131 832 or vec.vic.gov. au
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
WHAT’S ON Moonwalker: Michael Jackson’s HIStory show Halloween night! Moonwalker: Michael Jackson’s HIStory is coming to Pakenham at the Cardinia Cultural Centre on Saturday 31 October 2026 at 7.30pm A night to dress up and have fun with family and friends. This unique show features a live band, live vocals, a professional dance team, visual displays, special effects, covers over 40 years of Michael Jackson’s music, and is fronted by the three-time undefeated Michael Jackson Dance Off Champion, Paul Rizzo. Moonwalker’s mission statement is to entertain, educate, and elevate through the enduring legacy of the greatest entertainer of all time. Buy tickets from $70. For further information, visit: https://cardinia.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/164392
•
Circus Royale - Pakenham The Circus Royale has returned to Pakenham! Operating from 24 October to 15 November at Cnr Princes Hwy & Olympic Way (Opposite Cardinia Life). Come and join the Australian icon for another month of spectacular performances. Tickets start from $25. All guests aged 2 years and over require a ticket. Children aged 2–14 must be accompanied by an adult. Prams are not permitted inside the Big Top. Program and performance times are subject to change.
Cardinia events coming up Pakenham Art Show Christmas Sale at Cardinia Cultural Centre, from 27 to 29 November 2026. Nar Nar Goon Community Christmas Festival and Bunyip Christmas Carnival on 29 November 2026. Friday Flicks screening of Love Actually at Cardinia Cultural Centre and Lang Lang Christmas Carols on 4 December 2026. Community Christmas Carols Cockatoo on 6 December 2026. Rejoice and Be Merry—It’s Christmas ’26 at Cardinia Cultural Centre and the Tynong Community Christmas Party on 9 December 2026. Thursday Lounge Christmas sing-along specials at Cardinia Cultural Centre on 10 and 17 December 2026. Emerald Carols by the Lake and Garfield Christmas Festival on 11 December 2026. Koo Wee Rup Carols by Candlelight and Community Christmas Carols in Gembrook on 12 December 2026. Carols by the Creek in Beaconsfield on 20 December 2026.
Rotary Club of Pakenham Looking for a great night out close to home? The Rotary Club of Pakenham invites you to enjoy an evening of dancing, music and good company at the Pakenham Public Hall, corner of John and Henry Streets, Pakenham. Held monthly from 7.30pm to 11pm, the evenings are just $20 per person, with BYO drinks and nibbles welcome. Put these dates in your calendar: Saturday, 7 November – The Trutones Saturday, 5 December – Silhouettes For further information, contact Rotarian Ian Wake on 0417 112 500.
•
The Inner Wheel Club of Pakenham is turning Orange in November Our Club will be supporting the United Nations
campaign “16 Days of activism against GenderBased Violence” with “Orange The World”. Come and join us on Wednesday 25th November 2026 at Lakeside Pakenham @ 6.30pm in a Community Walk around the Lake. The Pakenham Club, which is part of the largest worldwide women’s service organisation, meets most first Thursdays of the month at the RSL Club rooms in Pakenham at 9.30am for a 10.00am start. Come along and join us and consider becoming a Member. Friendship is a major part of our group, and as well as our monthly meetings, we often get together for movie days, coffee mornings, craft and hobby days. If you want to know more about our great organisation, please visit our Inner Wheel Australia website at innerwheelaustralia.org.au or contact our local club by email: iiw.au.pakenham@gmail. com
•
Cardinia Prostate Cancer Support Group A safe space for men suffering or recovering from prostate cancer treatment and their families. All are welcome. We meet on the first Thursday of each month from February to November, 7pm to 8.30 pm, at Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham. For further information, phone Span Hanna on 0422 917 386 or email cardyprostate@outlook. com.
•
Friendly Table Tennis Join a friendly group for table tennis every Wednesday 1pm to 3pm, at the Beaconsfield Community Centre. All are welcome to play for fun, entertainment, and to look forward to making friends with a community who loves a classic game. $5 per person, with a community fee for a yearlong membership. Contact Jane for more information: 0419 927 096
•
Men’s Discussion Group Pakenham Looking for a decent yarn and a laugh with local blokes? Great Conversation. No Agendas. Just Good Blokes. If you’ve been looking for a place to connect with genuine guys, talk about the stuff that actually matters, and have a laugh along the way, OM:NI Pakenham is looking for you. This is your invitation to connect, share life experiences, and talk about everything from the everyday to the extraordinary. We offer a completely informal, supportive space for senior men—no strings attached, just good company and great conversation over a cuppa. We make it easy to fit into your calendar at Outlook (24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham): Daytime: 2nd Wednesday of the month, 9:15 am – 12pm Evening: 1st Wednesday of the month, 7pm – 9:30 pm Get out of the house, meet some fantastic local characters, and bring your ideas to the table. To lock in your spot for the next session, contact: Darren (Day Group): 0418 300 233 Ken (Evening Group): 0419 574 865
• •• Pakenham Garden Club
Meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month, except in January and November. In November, we meet on the 2nd Tuesday. We visit Gardens, Nurseries, Places of Interest, we have 3-4 Meetings a year, at the Cardinia Club
CHURCH
in Pakenham, with a speaker, Raffle, and Plant Share. After the meeting, we have lunch at the Cardinia Club. New members most welcome. Contact Mary - 0437 474 452
•
Cranbourne Seniors Club Morning Melodies with Gavin Chatelier, first Friday of the month, 11am-3pm; $15 lunch included. Details: Marilyn, 0432 107 590 or facebook. com/groups/487808127399953
•
Probus Club of Pakenham East The Probus Club of Pakenham East warmly invites retired and semi-retired members of our community to join us. We offer a variety of enjoyable activities to suit all interests, including dine-outs, ten-pin bowling, craft groups, walking groups, theatre outings, and gardening—just to name a few. Our meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cardinia Club, 71 Racecourse Road, commencing at 10:30am. Each meeting begins with a short general session, followed by a break for morning tea. This provides a great opportunity to chat and get to know fellow members. The meeting then resumes with the introduction of a guest speaker. At the conclusion of the meeting, members are invited to stay and enjoy lunch together. For more information or to express your interest in joining, please contact: President John: 0420 936 240 Secretary Dorothy: probuspakeast@gmail.com
• •• Pakenham Seniors
People interested in a happy, social atmosphere and meeting new friends are invited to visit Pakenham Senior Citizens Clubrooms at 38 James Street on any Monday morning. The club has regular activities. Rooms are available to rent. Telephone 5941 1297.
•
Singers wanted Cranbourne Chorale is recruiting for its non-auditioned adult community choir for mixed voices. Our repertoire is a mix of uplifting songs. Feel free to visit us without obligation; the first four sessions are free of charge. Wednesday rehearsals 7.30pm at The Factory, Building 5, 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East. Details: Jenny, 0438 358 032.
•
Fight Parkinson’s Support Group Pakenham Do you, or someone near and dear to you. Have Parkinson’s? We invite those with Parkinson’s and their carers to join us for a cuppa and a chat. We meet between 10am and 12 noon on the third Wednesday each month at Officer Football Club at 20 Starling Road, Officer. For further information call Tracey on 0494 562 509.
•
Pakenham Probus
want. Join and have a great time. Contact John Stitt: 0407766494
Inner Wheel Pakenham If you are interested in building cherished friendships, serving our communities whilst making a difference in this world, come and see how the largest world wide womens organisation works together. Inner Wheel of Pakenham are looking for more members to join for a new schedule of events this year. Events included talks from guest speakers, movie days, coffee mornings, craft days and other special events. Meetings are held on the 1st Thursday morning of each month. Please check out the Inner Wheel Australia website for more information, nnerwheelaustralia.org.au and contact the local Club at iiw. au.pakenham@gmail.com if you are interested in joining.
•
Little learner’s playgroup Join Aspire Pakenham centre every Friday morning from 10:30-11:30am for free playgroup sessions for your little one. It’s the perfect opportunity for children to play, explore and make new friends, with a new theme every week. Hosted by Anglicare Victoria, the event will be held at the community centre, 75 Army Rd in Pakenham.
Cardinia Prostate Cancer Support Group Meeting on the first Thursday of each month at Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham All are welcome. For more information please contact Span Hanna on 0422917386 or email spanetc@hotmail.com
•
Berwick Bridge Club Enjoy playing cards? Are you looking for some exercise for your brain that is both fun and challenging? Berwick Bridge Club is looking for new members. For more info please phone Maree on 9702 2348.
•
Get Involved with Pakenham Central Probus If you are retired or semi-retired, Pakenham Central Probus offers you a dynamic and friendly club. Activities include dine outs, outings, coffee mornings, walking group, craft group, ten-pin bowling, trips as well as concerts and theatre outings. Monthly meetings are held in Pakenham on Thursdays with reports on the Club’s activities, interesting speakers and opportunities to socialise and sign up for any of the activities that interest you. There’s never a dull moment—good company, great experiences, and memories to cherish. Come along for a visit to see if the Club suits your needs. Contact: our Jan 0417 371 004 or email pakenhamcentralprobus@gmail.com
•
Garfield Exercise Group
The Original Club in Pakenham for over 30 years. Pakenham Probus welcomes retired people from the community for fun and friendship. They meet at the Cardinia Club on the first Thursday of the month at 10am. They have the meeting, followed by morning tea and a chat. Then a guest speaker is welcomed to enlighten or entertain. The group then stays at the venue for a pay yourself lunch and chat. During the month, the group provides at minimal costs 10-pin bowling, craft activities, book club, tours, yearly holiday, 2 coffee mornings, dine out and a walking group. You can take part in whichever activities you
As part of the Bunyip Friendship Hub, they meet at the Garfield Football Club rooms on Tuesdays at 10am.
•
Available every second Wednesday at 2pm at MoyYan Neighbourhood House in Garfield.
been employed in Casey Cardinia Region. His role is to pioneer the work of the church in the Clyde area. On November 8th we are joining with Berwick UC to hear about Prison Fellowship. Transport will be arranged. Pout your name on the list in the foyer. We wish Rev Ray Mc Cluskey well now that he has retired. Thank you to those people who are placing goods in the boxes being delivered to Cranbourne Food Truck, Hampton Park food collective and Narre Warren North Op Shop. The goods being sought are pasta and pasta sauce, bottled water, rice and any foods which remain within date. These goods are distributed to people who need assistance. A box is also there for Narre Warren
North Op Shop who are looking for children’s clothing in particular. Thank you Gillian for organising this. Homework Hub Began term 3 13th October 3.30-5.30pm Playgroup Wednesday mornings. 9.30am to 11.00am Elders gathering Thursday November 19thth 1.30pm Church Council Thursday November 19th 3.00pm Friendship Group November 4th 1.30pm November 1st service with Rev Charles Sundaresan preaching at Pakenham UC Psalm 90 V1 “Lord you have been our dwelling place in all generations
Garfield Sewing Club Come along with your sewing machine or use one of ours and join a group of sewers creating clothes, quilts, crafts, repairing and upcycling. All skill levels welcome but a gold coin donation. This event is held every Tuesday during the school term at Garfield Scout Hall.
Food Relief with Vegetables and Fruit
Uniting Church Pakenham “Our vision as a Christian community is to honour each individual’s experience of God, while sharing the love of Jesus.” Sunday’s service was conducted by Riak Kiir. It was lovely to see him in our church again. He told us that his oncologist is very pleased with his progress and after another set of blood tests he will be able to go back to full time work. This is wonderful news for Riak, family and our congregations. Sunday proved to be a very trying day as the electronics and microphones decided they were not working so we thank people for their patience while repairs were made. Iris Spencer joined Riak and looked at the word respect. We should educate our grand children to respect each other and those
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
around them. Riak with a bowl and spoon told the story of eating in Sudan. There is one bowl and one spoon and they are passed from one to another. Don’t take more than anyone else and sharing is so important. The argument in Matthew Ch22 where Jesus is asked which commandment in the law is the greatest. He replies “love the Lord your God with all your heart. This is the greatest and first commandment. Secondly love your neighbour as yourself. Everything hangs on these two statements. The Lord is the messiah, a wise teacher and he is Divine Lord of all. Please pray for Clyde. Kim Hammond has
· · · · ·
Thursday, 29 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 11
NEWS
Racing dog Champ and Racing Minister Anthony Carbines. (Gary Sissons: 586358)
Cranbourne greys are back By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Racing Minister Anthony Carbines said the upgrade would provide a “safe and state-of-theart venue for trainers, greyhounds and participants”. Greyhound racing generates more than $844 million in economic benefit each year and sustains more than 4800 full-time equivalent jobs, according to the State Government. “The racing industry plays a vital role in the state’s economy, and our investment will back more jobs,” Carbines said. Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards said the reopening was a “fantastic result” for Cranbourne’s racing community. Greyhound Racing Victoria chief executive Stuart Laing said the Casey region was home to the largest number of greyhound trainers and second-highest number of active greyhounds in Victoria. “This investment will ensure that greyhound racing at Cranbourne can thrive.” Cranbourne Greyhound Racing Club CEO Andrew Fennell thanked the State Government for its significant investment. Greyhound racing has been long criticised by
animal welfare groups, who say Victoria has the nation’s deadliest tracks. Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds state director Steve Cook said the State Government should be phasing out greyhound tracks, not building new ones. “More deaths and injuries are guaranteed at the Cranbourne track. Victoria has a bad history with new tracks. “The Traralgon track was built for $5.8 million but was closed in 2024 after too many deaths. The replacement track opened this April and already three dogs have died.” He said Victorian greyhound racing “must stand on its own and not bludge off the taxpayer”. “In a cost of living crisis, the Cranbourne racing club should return the $4m and it should go to local health and education services. “GRV is obviously not financially strong enough to stand on its own. “The industry will probably mention the economic benefits of greyhound racing, but that can be ignored because it comes from consultants paid by the industry.”
Trainer Peter Presutto and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards with dog Champ. (586358)
12907846-AF43-26
Cranbourne’s upgraded greyhound track is set to re-open for racing after a four-year hiatus. The track underwent a $9.5 million safety redesign after being suspended in 2022 due to a spate of racing dogs’ deaths at the venue. Cranbourne Greyhound Racing Club is set to host the new track’s first race meeting on Wednesday 25 November, amid renewed criticism from animal welfare advocate Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds. The safety upgrades include a widened track base, an upgraded racing surface, improved lighting and advanced drainage systems. The club will also introduce new animal welfare features, including purpose-built holding and viewing pens and modern wash bays. The track’s redevelopment was jointly funded by the State Government ($4 million), the racing club ($2 million) and Greyhound Racing Victoria ($3.5 million). On 28 October, Racing Minister Anthony Carbines and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards announced the re-opening at the racing club.
12 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 29 October, 2026
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
networkclassifieds.com.au networkclassifieds.com.au
Trades & Services
Announcements
DEADLINE
FENCING & GATES
Placing your classified advert is so easy...
SAXON FENCING
Online: networkclassifieds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au
Prompt and Reliable Service
Announce your special occasion
Palings, Pickets, Colorbond Fences & Gates
MASSAGE THERAPISTS
HANDY PERSONS
ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.
C1101420-JO46-13
VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS (1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)
$
local handyman NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL
CALL DANNY 12910918-KA43-26
TV ANTENNA
SERVICE
0470 472 850
sales@networkclassifieds.com.au *Full colour 10cms x 1 col or 5cms x 2 col
0488 816 557
Phone 7am-8pm | installmyantenna.com.au
12 - Year Warranty Open 24/7 Free Inspections
9702 4952
12912064-JV44-26
TILING
Sell it local
Indoor and Outdoor Bathrooms, toilets, kitchens 20 years experience Free quotes For tiling & render: For plaster: Shian 0428 593 888 Mike 0409 799 286
TREE LOPPING/SURGERY C316291-KK18-5
CONCRETE PRODUCTS & SERVICES www.andrewcravenconcreting.com.au
Phone Andrew on 0408 585 508 andrewcravenconcreting@gmail.com Support your local tradesman for ALL your concreting needs!
12740246-AV02-25
• Units • Garages • Driveways • Pergolas Plain/Coloured • Slate Impression • Faux Brick • Exposed Aggregate
Oakfern Tree Care P/L Pruning Removal Stump Grinding
Phone Geoff 0418 340 825 Fully Insured
PLUMBING
J.L. Hutt Electrical
24 HOUR SERVICE
12438941-CG04-20
ELECTRICIANS
Jason 1300 644 698
1 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING
SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED
ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS STANDARD RATES ON WEEKENDS gjlawplumbing.com.au 7 DAYS 0419 136 181 - 0419 136 151
PLUMBING
24/7 SERVICE
SENIOOURNST DISC
0468 263 127 | Lic. no 122277 | www.triplezeroplumbing.com.au pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
12838648-CV04-26
CCTV inspection Pipe relining Storm water Sewerage Blockages from $79
With a proud history of delivering trusted local news across print, digital, newsletters and social media platforms, Star News Group connects businesses with highly engaged audiences throughout Melbourne’s south-east and regional Victoria. About the Role : This is an exciting opportunity to manage an established client portfolio while actively developing new business opportunities across our diverse media platforms. The successful applicant will work with local businesses to create effective advertising campaigns incorporating: • Newspaper advertising • Digital display advertising • Sponsored online content • Email marketing campaigns • Digital Newsletter Key Responsibilities : • Maintain and grow an existing client base. • Identify and secure new business opportunities. • Develop tailored advertising and marketing solutions for clients. • Prepare proposals, presentations and campaign recommendations. • Work collaboratively with editorial, design and digital teams to deliver outstanding client outcomes. About You: You will possess: • Excellent communication, negotiation and presentation skills. • Strong organisational and time management abilities. • A positive attitude and a passion for helping local businesses succeed. • A current driver’s license and reliable vehicle. What We Offer : • An established territory with existing clients. • Competitive salary package including base salary and commission. • Supportive team environment. • The opportunity to work with a respected and trusted community media brand. • If you are passionate about sales, enjoy working within your local community and thrive in a fast-paced media environment, we’d love to hear from you. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au
LOCALPLUMBER Leaking taps Burst pipes Hot water Blocked drains Gas heating Leak detection
PRINT & DIGITAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE 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.
QUALITY TILING, RENDER & PLASTER
Need cash?
Andrew Craven Concreting
Call or visit us online! networkclassifieds.com.au
POSITIONS VACANT
1158529-PB42-14
FAST FRIENDLY EFFICIENT
• All Metal Roofing • Architectural Cladding • Senior Discounts • Family Business
12681352-MS15-24
• Roof Repairs & Replacement • Gutter Repairs & Replacement • Fascia & Eave Repair & Replacement • Tile Roof Restoration
SAME DAY TV ANTENNA SERVICE • 40 Years Family FR Owned & Operated QUO EE TES • 25 Year Warranty • Senior/Pensioner Discount Pakenham’s Trusted Antenna Experts
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
‘It’s All In The Name’
12909362-AD42-26
0485 522 020
PETS & SERVICES
Employment
SENIORS DISCOUNT We accept
25 YEAR WARRANTY
1300 666 808 We accept
PROFESSIONAL REPAIRS & INSTALLATIONS
Call our helpful classified team between 8:30am-5pm Mon-Fri for FREE advice!
ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE
ROOFING
Excellence You Can Trust!
Your local antenna experts.
• Birthday Greetings • Congratulations • Welcome Baby • Newlyweds • Happy Anniversary
Want to place an ad but not sure where to start?
12890553-JR32-26
Fast Friendly Family Owned
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
DRYWALL REPAIR GUTTER REPAIRS GUTTER CLEANING TILING INSTALL/REMOVE BLINDS INSTALL TOWEL RACK INSTALL TV WALL MOUNT HANG PICTURES, MIRRORS PROMPT & RELIABLE
202632001-RV31-26
12435765-SN02-20
ANTENNAS
FULLY INSURED
12643213-AA42-23
FREE QUOTES
CARPENTRY DECKING, PERGOLA DOORS, WINDOWS, LOCKS ALL REPAIRS WOOD ROT REPAIR REPLACE PERGOLA POST GENERAL REPAIRS PAINTING EXTERIOR/ INTERIOR PLASTER, WATER DAMAGE
*
60
DANNY THE HANDYMAN
Deadline for all classifications is 11am Wednesday
VINYL RECORD Collections. Please call Chris: 0408 993 976
Phone 0419 775 259 or 8751 4016
We accept payment by:
Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...
WANTED
12423634-SN31-19
(include your name, address and phone number)
General Classifieds
sales@networkclassifieds.com.au
1300 666 808
NEED WORK
LOCALLY? 202530001-KF29-25
Thursday, 29 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 13
NEWS
Leek upstages big names By Shayne Hope, AAP Pakenham trainer Andrea Leek felt like an “imposter“ after upstaging some of racing’s biggest names when Cosmic Crusader won a historic edition of the $6 million Cox Plate (2040m) at Flemington. Western Australian visitor Cosmic Crusader stormed home on Saturday with popular jockey Willie Pike on board, winning the nation’s weightfor-age championship for prominent ownerbreeder Bob Peters. Master trainer Chris Waller was narrowly denied what would have been a record-equalling seventh Cox Plate victory, with Birdman second by three-quarters of a length and pre-race favourite Aeliana third. Joseph Pride-trained Ceolwulf was fourth. Leek became the third female trainer to win the Cox Plate, three weeks after her first Group 1 triumph, while the legendary Gai Waterhouse’s pursuit of the elusive major title continues after one-time favourite Sir Delius was overhauled in the straight. “I feel like I’m an imposter,“ Leek said. “To step in and have a horse like this in the early stages of my career, I’m very lucky. I couldn’t be happier.“ Cosmic Crusader’s fighting victory drew parallels with fellow WA horse Northerly’s back-to-back Cox Plate triumphs in 2001-02. The six-year-old gelding has enjoyed a dazzling Melbourne campaign with four wins in seven starts, including Group 1 victories in the Turnbull Stakes and Cox Plate. “A miracle. He’s just an iron horse,“ Leek said. “What a champion. What a ride by Willie Pike. Thanks to the Peters for giving him to me and trusting in me.“ Leek’s win came against the backdrop of her husband John Leek’s disqualification for attempting to stomach-tube a horse on race day last year. “It’s been terrible for him ... but no one’s prouder and happier for me than what he is,“ Leek said. Pike, known as “The Wizard“, has dominated WA racing for years but had not previously won a spring major in Melbourne. He is the first WA-based jockey to win the Cox Plate. “I don’t ever dream of winning these races because I always thought it was too far to reach,“ Pike said. “I left last week a little disappointed, but he’s backed up. “He’s come off their backs and I knew he was
Trainer Andrea Leek, jockey William Pike, Mitch Leek and the strapper celebrate after winning Saturday’s Cox Plate at Flemington (AAP Photos) a chance. “I rode better, I was calmer through the first half to the top of the straight and he was strong through the line. “Thanks so much to the whole team. Look how many runs he’s had. He’s just so good.“ The 150th Cox Plate was moved to Flemington from its traditional home at Moonee Valley this year while the venue undergoes a major redevelopment. Pike, who screamed his mount’s name as broadcast cameras approached him post-race, admitted he lost a battle in his own mind when he celebrated the famous victory. “The moment gets the better of you and you stand up and you salute and you carry on, and it’s amazing,“ Pike said. “It’s amazing. Big crowd, iconic day. It’s most likely the only ever Cox Plate to be run here so it’s nice that we could etch our names in there.“ An emotional Peters declared it the most sig-
nificant triumph of his time in racing. “This is the biggest win. It’s the best race in Australia ... I don’t get speechless very often,“ Peters said. “I always looked at it as the best race in Australia and I think it’s a privilege to have a runner in it. “It’s great to do it with William (Pike) as well because we’ve been together since he was about 16 (years old) and I feel really good that he’s achieved something that he wanted to as well.“ Also on Saturday, leading trainer Ciaron Maher bolstered his Melbourne Cup hand when Juja Kibo claimed a ballot exemption by winning the Group 2 Moonee Valley Gold Cup (2500m). The Cranbourne-based Maher trained the first three across the line, with Kings Valley second and Mr Monaco third. All three are now headed back to Flemington on the first Tuesday in November, along with Maher’s Geelong Cup winner Point Of Law. “It couldn’t have worked out any better,“ Maher
Winners are grinners. Trainer Andrea Leek and jockey William Pike share a laugh after the big win of Cosmic Crusader told Seven. “Juja needed to win, Kings Valley needed to get up the order and Monaco was already in. “I can’t thank the team enough. Super job, great rides and bring on the Cup.“
Big night at Glover as Panther legends are immortalised Devon Meadows Cricket Club launched its Hall of Fame on Saturday night, recognising the outstanding achievements and contributions of some of the most significant figures in the Panthers’ history. The inaugural induction features 26 players who have represented the club with distinction across the club’s 57-year history, making significant contributions to its on-field success. At the time of their inductions, the 26 players had combined to play 5961 games, scored 106,066 runs, taken 5127 wickets, and played in 72 premierships, highlighting their combined achievements on the field. The Hall of Fame launch coincided with the 50th anniversary of the club’s only top-grade premiership, the 1976/77 A Grade title. The Golden Jubilee reunion provided a fitting occasion to reflect on the club’s history, bringing together past and present members to celebrate the people and moments that have helped define the Panthers. Since its formation in 1969, more than 1000 players have played senior cricket for the Devon Meadows Cricket Club - 312 of whom have featured in the first XI - and the Club has won 30 premierships. The inaugural class marks the beginning of what the club hopes will become a lasting tradition, recognising the achievements of past players and ensuring their contributions remain part of the Devon Meadows story for generations to come.
14 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 29 October, 2026
Panther Hall of Fame inductees Andrew Churchus, Lincoln Hepburn, Jason Brzezowski, Peter Zauner, Ian Hopper, Darren O’Brien, Peter O’Brien and Mick Floyd are all smiles at Devon Meadows’ Golden Jubilee night. (Field of View Photography) INAUGURAL INDUCTEES (Along with 1st XI Cap Number) Don McIvor (1) Keith Thomas (2) Daryl Bruce Hunt (9) Mark Edward Vivian (15) Stephen Noel Vivian (17) Denis Robert Cole (25) Cliff Carson (29) Peter O’Hare (32)
· · · · · · · · ·
· Stephen Carson (40) · Greg Needham (54) · Andrew John Churchus (130) · Lincoln John Hepburn (138) · Peter Matthew O’Brien (139) · Darren John O’Brien (141) · Peter Zauner (180) · Ian Hopper (181) · Michael Stephen Floyd (195) · Jason John Brzezowski (209)
Bill Loudon is now an immortalised name at the Devon Meadows Cricket Club.
· Mark Hosking (210) · Antony Graeme Scott (211) · William Robert Loudon (222) · Lucas Carroll (223) · Arthur Edward Churchill (231) · Kyle Edwin Salerno (236) · Nathan R Worsteling (251) · Allan Charles Tibballs See Pages 48 and 49 for full descriptions on every inductee
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
SPORT
Zac Shepherd takes one behind the stumps as Alfie Baker swings the bat. (586663)
Lucas Ligt clips it away as he top scored for the Panthers with 55. (586438)
Cobras cruise past Clyde By Justin Schwarze Division newcomers Merinda Park now sit atop the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) Premier ladder as the Cobras comfortably pushed aside Clyde on day two of round 3. Captain/coach Leigh Paterson highlighted the importance of the first 10 overs of the day at Clyde Reserve as his side resumed 3/50 chasing 129. Jordan King was the stabilising pillar that Merinda Park could build around as the surviving opener repelled everything thrown at him by the desperate Cougars bowling attack. However, Max Adams’ hot start to the summer added another wicket as he claimed the scalp of Luke Dinger (8) early in the day’s play. It left the visitors 4/69, but it was clear Clyde needed to find a way to remove King to have any chance of causing a boilover. King patiently ticked past a half century, while Sasindu Perera began to get comfortable. Perera (15) then snicked off a Farhan Hussain delivery, seeing the Cobras move to 5/89. Keeper/bat Alfie Baker (11) accompanied King to within a boundary of victory before being dismissed by Ankush Rana. King (79 not out) played a watchful innings; facing 174 balls to ensure his side walked away with the victory. The win pushed the Cobras to 2-0 in completed games this season, a dream start after coming up from the second tier last season. They face an intriguing test this week away at Cardinia, with Merinda Park in a position to make a statement that it is not just here to stay, but also ready to compete with the big dogs. A commendable display from Officer saw the Bullants put up a mighty fight against a formidable Pakenham side and its formidable score from week one. The Lions looked destined for early celebrations defending 9/351 when Luke McMaster caught the edge of Kevin Baldsing (5) to have Officer 1/15 on its home deck at Rob Porter Reserve. Josh Grogan then knocked over the battling Billy Carlyle (18) in the 17th over and Pakenham was restricting the hosts’ ability to score. Ash Smith and Yohan Arumadura stuck it out, braving the most difficult period of the innings under immense pressure. The duo formed a near-50-run stand, before Smith (24) became Jason Williams’ first wicket for the afternoon. Two overs later, Williams nabbed another when he dismissed James Parnall (0). Williams was starting to turn the game; both figuratively and literally. He found the breakthrough of Rishaub Srinivasan (16) to leave Officer in trouble at 5/109. Arumadrua (50) reached a well-deserved half ton, but soon fell to Steve Dillon. Jack James (7) was on his way in the next over, and a big percentage-boosting win wasn’t far away for the Lions as Officer was 7/136. But a huge resistance from captain Cooper Pursell and promising youngster Dylan Aluthwatta frustrated Pakenham by creating a monstrous lower order partnership. Aluthwatta and his skipper stacked on over 100 runs and the Bullants marched to close in on the 250-mark. The stand finally ended when Pursell (48) became Grogan’s second wicket as he was caught by Williams.
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au
CASEY CARDINIA CRICKET ASSOCIATION
PREMIER REVIEW - ROUND 3 (DAY 2)
Merinda Park opener Jordan King was the match-winner with a mature 79 not out to guide the Cobras to victory. (Stewart Chambers: 586663)
Bailey Paroissien plays a cracking shot on his way to 53. (586438) Grogan was ready to end the match, clean bowling Adam Reid (0) next ball. Riley Blackman survived the hat-trick ball, and played an impressive supporting role while Aluthwatta hit his way to a half century. The emerging talent pushed on, reaching 79 not out before Blackman was the last wicket to fall. James Close caught Blackman (28) off Williams, completing the off-spinner’s five-wicket bag. Grogan posted three poles himself, bowling out the Bullants for 299; going in the book as a 52run win for the Lions. Tooradin’s pursuit of Cardinia’s 203 was cut short due to wet weather at Rutter Park, with the Seagulls unable to resume after completing half of their innings. It was certainly a promising foundation for the hosts, who recovered after an early statement from the Bulls. Cal O’Hare (4) was dismissed as Travis Wheller caught his own bowling, followed by Daniel McEniry sending Josh Lownds (8) on his way in
Sashin Dilranga took a six-wicket haul for Kooweerup. (586438)
the next over. Tooradin was 2/12, but classy knocks from Lahiru Jayakody (42 not out) and captain Russell Lehman (23 not out) meant the points were split. Jayakody faced 111 balls and Lehman saw 102, showcasing a patient effort to value their wickets. The Seagulls were left 2/85 from 42.1 overs before play was abandoned for the day. The contest between Devon Meadows and Kooweerup was also rain affected, with the Demons unable to bat at all due to a downpour on Sunday. The Panthers got a full 80 overs in on Saturday despite multiple interruptions from the wet weather. Lucas Ligt brought his best for the club’s special occasion, sharing a strong opening partnership with Will Halton. Halton (36) did a lot of the heavy-lifting early before edging a Tim Miller delivery in the 22nd over, leaving the hosts 1/63. Ligt and new man at the crease Bailey Paroissien powered on, accelerating the score for the
Panthers. Ligt (55) charged to his first half ton of the season before he was knocked over by Jesse Depasquale. Chris Cleef (1) was dismissed by Sashin Dilranga six deliveries later, and Devon Meadows stumbled to 3/143, but Nathan Worsteling (23) and Paroissien got the innings back on track. Paroissien raised his bat for his maiden half ton with the Panthers, but was castled by Dilranga shortly after. The hosts lost two more wickets in the next three overs, with Dilranga removing Ben Marsh (1) and Shiran Rathnayake rattling the stumps of Worsteling (23). Handy cameos from Nathan Kleinig (23) and Arthur Churchill (21) saw Devon Meadows race away to a competitive total of 9/229 at stumps. Dilranga was outstanding for Kooweerup, recording 6/51 from 22 overs. The rain denied the Demons any chance to chase victory, meaning advantage Pakenham and Merinda Park for securing wins in a rain-disrupted round 3.
Thursday, 29 October, 2026 | STAR NEWS 15
12912044-EA44-26
16 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 29 October, 2026
pakenhamnews.starcommunity.com.au