Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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SRL future?
Cr joins Berwick battle
Cost of living
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SPORT
Dancing and singing at the Lions Club Over 100 members attended the Lions Club of Casey last Tuesday for an afternoon of dancing, eating, singing and socialising. The event marked the festivities for the Victorian Seniors Festival. With raffles, live performances of classic songs and good food, many
left with a sense of belonging. Musical performances covering notable names like Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton from Silver Sounds stole the afternoon as well as, local group ABBA DABBA Ukes, a private ukulele group. For more pictures, go to page 14
A fun afternoon of dancing and singing at the Lions Club’s afternoon tea. (Stewart Chambers: 587142)
Debating purple State mandated glass-only bins continue to be a hot topic ahead of the state election in November. All Victorian councils are required to move to a four-bin system by July 2027. Some councils across Victoria have pushed back against the mandate, recommending to
defer the plans while Casey Council proactively signed contracts to deliver the new services in 2024. The rollout of the bins cost Casey Council $5.9 million, with the council offsetting $3 million of these costs.
The council also used its savings from its waste reserve to freeze the standard waste charge for 2026/27, meaning there would be no increase to the standard waste charge. Casey households have already received new purple-lidded glass recycling bins, with the first collection kicking of this week.
Despite the council’s commitment to the rollout, many still question the necessity of the new services. Star News have surveyed some Casey candidates on the matter for their stance, turn to page 2
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NEWS
Hampton Park man charged A Hampton Park man has been charged over the alleged baseball-bat assault of a One Nation volunteer in Torquay, while a 14-year-old boy from the Casey area has been cautioned. Police allege the pair assaulted a 60-year-old Torquay man at a premises on Scorpio Street about 7.45pm on Sunday 1 November. “It is believed they allegedly assaulted the man with a baseball bat, before being arrested by attending units a short time later,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said. The victim was taken to hospital with
non-life-threatening injuries. A 37-year-old Hampton Park man was charged with intentionally causing injury and other assault-related offences. He was directly presented to Geelong Magistrates’ Court and remanded to appear again on 10 November. A 14-year-old boy from the Casey area was issued with a caution. One Nation Victoria leader Warren Pickering condemned the attack, describing political violence and intimidation as “un-Australian and
unacceptable”. “If you don’t like someone’s politics, you vote accordingly. You don’t assault them,” he said. “Our thoughts are with our volunteer and his family. We’re informed he has serious injuries.” Mr Pickering said all candidates and political parties contesting the Victorian election should uphold democratic principles and engage in peaceful debate. “I understand many Victorians are frustrated. I understand the ‘temperature’ of debate is high,” he said.
“We don’t have to accept the erosion of the middle ground for respectful debate or peaceful disagreement.” Victorian Liberal leader Jess Wilson also condemned the alleged attack. “Every Victorian has the right to express their political views and support the party of their choice without fear of violence or intimidation,” she said. “We can disagree strongly about politics, but violence is never the answer.” The matter remains before the courts.
Candidates on purple bin mandates The state government’s controversial purple bin mandate is still being contested, despite some councils across Victoria already locked into hefty waste-management contracts, including Casey Council. Across Casey the first collection of glass-only bins with purple lids have already commenced, but its necessity is still being weighed up by major parties ahead of the election. Unlike Casey Council, other councils in Victoria chose to push back against the state government, with many citing costs as a major factor. Despite being a state-mandate, councils are responsible to fund the rollout, with risk of penalties if councils do not comply by July 2027. As part of Star New’s state election series, we’ve surveyed local candidates across Casey on their stance. Liberal’s Norliah Peterson was contacted for comments, no response has been received at the time of publication.
GREENS: JILL NAMBU, NARRE WARREN SOUTH I strongly support the glass bin roll-out. Separating glass at the kerbside is a proven way to increase our recycling rates and significantly reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfill. Crucially, getting glass out of our standard yellow commingled bins protects the integrity of our other recyclables. When glass breaks in a yellow bin, the shards embed themselves into paper, cardboard, and plastics, making those valuable materials much harder—and sometimes impossible—to recycle. By introducing a dedicated glass stream, we ensure that both the glass and our oth-
It’s time to put common sense and ratepayers first!
GREENS, ROSHAN DE SILVA, BERWICK
Glass-only purple bins. (On file)
er household recyclables can be processed effectively and kept out of landfill. We need to do more than just expand the container deposit scheme – glass collection, delivered flexibly, plus an expanded container deposit scheme, would mean more recycling, and less glass ending up in landfill. The Greens support the glass bin mandate, but we also firmly believe that local councils must be listened to by the state government. The state government needs to provide councils with greater flexibility and, crucially, the funding required to deliver this transition smoothly.
ONE NATION: MICHAEL PIASTRINO, BERWICK One Nation supports recycling and protecting our environment, but we also believe in common sense and putting ratepayers first. Victorian families are already struggling with rising council rates, electricity bills, mortgages and the cost of living. The last
thing they need is another expense imposed on them. While separate glass recycling bins may have environmental benefits, councils and the Victorian Government must explain why they are necessary, what they will cost and whether there are more affordable alternatives. One Nation’s position is clear: - We support recycling that delivers genuine environmental benefits. - We oppose unnecessary additional costs for ratepayers. - We believe residents deserve transparency about how their money is spent. - We want councils to consult their communities before introducing major changes. - We believe essential council services should remain the priority. Recycling should not become another financial burden on hardworking Victorian families. One Nation will always advocate for practical solutions, responsible spending and greater accountability from local government.
Do you support the glass bin roll out? I support the purple glass bin roll out because of the following: - Collecting glass separately prevents broken glass from contaminating paper, cardboard and plastics in the yellow recycling bin. The more paper and cardboard that we recycle means less trees we need to cut down to make these. - Keeping broken glass out of sorting machinery at materials recovery facilities reduces wear and tear of machinery and lowers the safety risk for the workers. - The chosen 80 litre bin is easier to wheel out of the kerb compared to the larger standard wheelie bins. Do you support the council’s flexibility on this matter and alternate options like the container deposit scheme? I also believe that the council should have the flexibility to choose what works really best for the City of Casey area rather than being forced by the State Government to use this facility and nothing else. Adding a fourth bin creates storage issues for smaller properties, town houses, or homes with limited garage or yard space. The CDS scheme is a great scheme. There should be more of these places everywhere so that people can use it more. Since the State government mandated the 4-bin service, the state government should fully fund the rollout and the collection costs. The money collected by the State Government under the Municipal and Industrial Waste Levy should be recycled back to absorb the cost of this roll out. The money saved by the increased recycling of cardboard and paper and reduced landfill costs should contribute to the ongoing costs of this program. Manufacturers who package products in glass jars and bottles should also fund endof-life recovery costs. The CDS scheme should also look at expanding the program to include other glass products that are currently excluded.
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NEWS
Candidates on the SRL The Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) remains a burning issue ahead of the upcoming state election. The plan for the 90-km orbital rapid transit rail system, has been sullied by criticism, over its cost blowouts, funding shortfalls and questions of infrastructure priorities for Victorians. The project is divided into three stages, with the first stage connecting Cheltenham to Box Hill currently underway. Phase one is estimated to cost $33 billion. The Liberal government says they will pause and review the project, while One Nation pledged to scrap it altogether. As part of Star New’s state election series, we’ve surveyed local candidates across the seats of Cranbourne, Berwick, and Narre Warren South.
LABOR - STEFAN KOOMEN, NARRE WARREN SOUTH
ONE NATION - MICHAEL PIASTRINO, BERWICK 1. What’s your view on the Suburban Rail Loop? Should it proceed, be deferred or be cancelled? Why? From a One Nation perspective, we believe major infrastructure projects must deliver value for taxpayers and address the needs of Victorian communities. The Suburban Rail Loop is a significant financial commitment, and we have serious concerns about its cost, funding and long-term impact on Victoria’s finances. My position is that the project should be independently reviewed before further major commitments are made. That review should examine whether the project should proceed as planned, be deferred or have its scope changed. Victorians deserve transparency, financial accountability and infrastructure decisions based on genuine community needs. 2. Do you think the Clyde Rail Link should be a bigger priority? The Clyde Rail Link deserves serious consideration as an infrastructure priority. Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs, including Clyde, Clyde North, Berwick and surrounding communities, have experienced significant population growth. Residents face increasing pressure on local roads and public transport services. The proposed extension of the Cranbourne railway line to Clyde would provide an additional transport option for growing communities. I believe the government must properly assess the Clyde Rail Link’s costs, benefits and delivery timetable alongside other major transport investments. As a One Nation candidate for Berwick, I want to see infrastructure planning that recognises the needs of growing communities in Melbourne’s southeast. My position is simple: Victorian taxpayers deserve responsible spending, transparent decisions and infrastructure that meets the needs of the communities it serves.
LIBERAL - GINO TRIPODI, CRANBOURNE We’ve seen serious allegations of corruption across Labor’s Big Build, and the Victorian Ombudsman has already exposed the extraordinary secrecy surrounding the origins of the SRL. Victorians deserve to know where their money is going, what contracts have been signed and what this project will really cost. After years of cost blowouts, corruption allegations and secrecy, taxpayers deserve answers, not another blank cheque. Our government will open the books, examine the contracts and make decisions in the best interests of Victorian taxpayers. We’ve been clear that our pause and review
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Berwick One Nation candidate Michael Piastrino, Cranbourne Liberal candidate Gino Tripodi, Cranbourne Family First candidate Shane Foreman, Cranbourne Labor candidate Pauline Richards, and Narre Warren South Labor candidate Stefan Koomen talked about the controversial SRL project ahead of the November State Election.
will be swift and completed in our first 100 days. We have worked with the Parliamentary Budget Office who have confirmed that our approach will not impose any additional cost on the state budget. A Jess Wilson-led Liberal and Nationals Government will invest $5 billion in road projects across the state, including fixing one million potholes.
LABOR, PAULINE RICHARDS, CRANBOURNE Labor is building the Suburban Rail Loop train line which will slash travel times, cut congestion and help busy families. Ben Carroll is making sure we get value for money - he saved $2 billion on the SRL in his first 2 weeks as Premier. Jess Wilson and the Liberals are all over the place on this and change their policy day by day - pausing this project would cost taxpayers billions of dollars.
FAMILY FIRST, JANE FOREMAN, CRANBOURNE 1. Do you support continuing the Suburban Rail Loop East in its current form and timetable? Why or why not? No. Family First would cancel it. The Parliamentary Budget Office’s figures show that cancelling would improve the state budget by about $21 billion over the next decade, even after the cost of walking away from contracts is counted. That assumes the project comes in on budget and on time, which projects this size rarely manage. For families in Berwick, Cranbourne and Clyde, the question is simple: what could $21 billion do closer to home? It could go to the roads, trains, schools, hospitals and police stations that growing suburbs are still waiting for. Putting families back in front means spending where families actually live. 2. Should the Cranbourne line extension to Clyde be prioritised over further spending on the SRL? Yes. Families in Cranbourne East, Clyde, Clyde North and Casey Fields have waited more than 25 years for a train. The Clyde Rail Link would bring new stations at Cranbourne East, Casey Fields and Clyde to suburbs with no rail at all. SRL East, by contrast, mostly duplicates train and bus services that already work. Money should go first to places with no alternative, not to adding a second option where one already exists. Not every part of the wider loop idea is wrong. A proper rail link to Melbourne Airport, which is a separate project from SRL East, has a clear case. A city that wants to be a world-class tourism and business destination can’t rely on SkyBus alone. Beyond that, the first dollar should go where families have the least. 3. Has transport infrastructure spending ad-
estimated at around $2–3 billion. Second, buses, and who runs them. A generation ago, local family-run bus companies got people in the south-east to school and work. They answered directly to the passengers on the bus, and could fix a timetable or a route quickly. Many of those businesses have since been absorbed into bigger groups, some owned overseas. Today, changing a route or a timetable means waiting on a process that takes too long. Family First will move back toward local say. We will cut red tape on operators, let local operators compete, and let communities help decide how they get around. That is the surest way to get better services and lower costs together. The goal is the train to work, the bus to school and home in time for tea. Longer term, we support planning for rail to Koo Wee Rup, better road connections, more park-and-ride and stronger local bus links to Cranbourne and Berwick stations. 6. If SRL spending were reduced, delayed or redirected, would you support allocating funds to the Clyde rail extension or other south-east projects? Yes. If SRL East is cancelled, the state’s savings should go first to the Clyde rail extension, then to local buses, roads like Thompsons Road, and the schools, health services, police and fire cover that growing suburbs need. The PBO’s $21 billion would pay for the Clyde extension several times over. That is a direct, lasting benefit for some of Victoria’s fastest-growing communities. Spending should follow families, not the other way around. It is time to put the outer southeast first. Family First. Putting families back in front.
equately reflected population growth in Melbourne’s outer south-east? No. Casey is one of the fastest-growing parts of Victoria, but the roads, rail, schools, hospitals, police and fire services have arrived years after the removalists. Casey Council’s own priority list, including Clyde rail, Thompsons Road and better buses, is still waiting. Part of the reason is how Melbourne is planned. Rules set far away make it hard to build in suburbs that already have trains, schools and hospitals. So young families, including many who have come from overseas to build a life here, are pushed out to the edge, where services are thinnest. Family First’s answer is services first, then the estate. Build the road, the school and the station up front, and let more homes go up where the services already exist. 4. What direct benefits will SRL East provide to residents in Cranbourne, Clyde and the Bass electorate? Very little. SRL East runs through Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, and the outer southeast gets no new local station and no direct rail connection. At best, some people who already travel by bus and train to work, school or uni will save a little time. That is a long wait for a small gain, with no passengers until 2035. Meanwhile Clyde still has no train at all. 5. If Family First forms government, what rail and public transport commitments will you make for Cranbourne, Clyde and the wider south-east? First, Clyde. We will prioritise the Cranbourne line extension, with planning, funding certainty and delivery of the Clyde Rail Link. It is
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I support the Suburban Rail Loop. It’s an important investment in Victoria’s future that will help reduce congestion, cut travel times and better connect Melbourne’s suburbs. Labor is focused on getting the project built while finding savings and delivering value for money. Ben Carroll has already secured $1 billion in immediate savings through design changes, with another $1 billion being targeted through a technical review. With major construction and tunnelling already underway, putting the project on hold would cause significant delays and cost Victorian taxpayers billions of dollars.
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 3
NEWS
Councillor in for ACP By Jensy Callimootoo Casey Councillor Scott Dowling has announced he will be standing for the state election in November as a Berwick candidate for the Australian Citizens Party (ACP), a party with former ties to the LaRouche Movement. Dowling has taken a leave of absence from his council duties and will return after the election. In expanding his political aspirations, Dowling is now wanting to take “real action” on the systemic issues surrounding domestic and family violence — a focal point of his campaign. Another priority will be “supporting the fractured youth”, including advocating for early intervention programs by turning community spaces into safe hubs with accessible activities and “structured rehabilitation”. Alongside this, he will also advocate for banking reform and “financial sovereignty”. Dowling says he will also continue his work bringing the community together and calling for more events, following his success in 2025 advocating for Christmas decorations in High Street, Berwick. Dowling says he was first approached by the party and decided ACP was a good fit for him. It follows his possible candidacy with One Nation which he later withdrew from, citing indifference to the party. About the party The ACP, formerly known as the Citizens Electoral Council (CEC) before a name change in 2019, positions itself as neither “left” or “right” on the political spectrum. The party shared close ties with the LaRouche Movement in its early inception — a US-based political and cultural network that often pushed conspiratorial theories and anti-semitic tropes. In a statement to Star News, ACP says it ended its association with the LaRouche Movement 11 years ago, and that it “has not had any involvement with them since”. According to a 2022 AFR article, the party did not disavow a conspiracy theory alleging that
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4 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
Scott Dowling has put his hand up to run with the Australian Citizens Party for the Berwick seat. Queen Elizabeth II was the head of an international drug smuggling cartel. ACP identifies itself as completely independent, steering away from corporate donations, as outlined on its website. The same AFR article reported that the party received $2.3 million in small donations across 2020-21, accumulating the most after the four big parties. They’ve contested 13 Federal elections and numerous state elections. Monash University political commentator Zareh Ghazarian says ACP is broadly concerned with larger corporations and “skeptical” of Australia’s foreign policies. “It’s seeking to appeal to voters who may not be liking what they’ve seen with either major party and are willing to give a minor party their first preference,” he said. At a federal level, the party calls for the restoration of Australia’s “national and economic sovereignty”, campaigning for banking reforms by advocating for the Australian Post to be turned
into a bank. In Victoria, it supports the creation of publicly owned state banks, affordable housing and rent freezes for up to two years. In June 2026, ACP intended to form a merger with Gerard Rennick People First Party (GRPF), aligning on banking reforms — but this ultimately failed due to a “technical obstacle that could not be overcome” involving funding barriers. But ACP said that they intend to work in “close alliance” with Gerard Rennick and the Australian Peoples Party, stating that they will continue to “collaborate with Gerard on our shared vision” Rennick was a former coalition senator in Queensland before his resignation in 2024. Among other policies, GRPF opposes the funding of the Welcome to Country, supports the abolition of renewable subsidies, the withdrawal from the World Health Organisation and the removal of “all funding and references to Climate Change”. Ghazarian says the merging of minor groups is not necessarily an indication that the parties
align on all issues, but rather an attempt at “pooling resources”. “Running a party requires a lot of resources,” Ghazarian said. “It involves a huge administrative load. So it makes sense to merge and combine their forces in order to navigate these sorts of challenges with a larger human resource base. “There may be points where parties align with each other, but they don’t have to be 100 per cent matched.” Why now? The seat of Berwick is currently held by Liberal MP and former opposition leader, Brad Battin. While Ghazarian underscores that there are no “safe seats” in the election, he states that Battin will likely be able to retain the seat. And with just one month until the election, it adds difficulty for minor parties only now getting their campaigns started to establish their profiles in the community. Despite the expected outcome in Berwick, Ghazarian says the rise in the number of candidates running in this election is positive. “When we see a rise of new parties and new candidates, I think it also reflects on democracy more generally,” he said. “They are having a go, throwing their hands up, saying that they would like to stand for public office. “By giving more choice to people, other sorts of issues, other sorts of debates can be had in the community. “But for the parties themselves, it’s going to be a challenge because they will need to establish a profile. “They will need to build a rapport with the local community, so by leaving candidate selection too late, they may be doing themselves a disservice.” Backed by his time on the council, Dowling says he’ll be taking this month to get his name and campaign out in the electorate, using his experience and lessons from the council election in 2024.
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NEWS
Jail for manslaughter By Cam Lucadou-Wells An accused car thief who fatally strangled a 21-year-old ‘friend’ in a drug-hazed fight at an Endeavour Hills unit has faced sentence. David Dipacce, 21, pleaded guilty at the Victorian Supreme Court to the manslaughter of his victim on 13 April last year. A fight between Dipacce and the victim broke out, though “how and why this occurred remains unclear”, Justice James Elliott noted in sentencing on 27 October. Dipacce struck the man with a multi-tool, and used a sleeve of a sweatshirt to try to “choke out” the victim and stop the fight. Justice Elliott said the compression must have lasted a “significant period of time”. The victim also suffered puncture wounds to the head, severe facial injuries, bruised knuckles as well as bleeding on the brain that was consistent with blunt-force trauma. Both men had consumed drugs in the leadup. The victim was likely to have taken an array of substances including meth, ketamine, MDMA, cannabis, clonazepam and cocaine in a short space of time. His ‘cocktail’ was of a potentially lethal nature and concentration in itself, a forensic pathologist found. The drugs were also capable of “potentiating” the effects of the head injury and neck compression, the expert stated. Prosecutors didn’t pursue a murder charge against Dipacce on the basis of the expert opinion. The drugs may have made an otherwise non-fatal assault a deadly one. “Naturally, the fact that (the victim) was drug-affected does not make your conduct any less unlawful,” Judge Elliott noted.
Dipacce later stated his own mind was a “blur” and couldn’t recall much about the fight. About 6.27am that morning, he ran to a neighbour’s home claiming he’d been attacked, that he wasn’t a bad person but he might have killed his friend. Emergency services were called. He told police at the scene that the victim made sexual advances at him. He didn’t want to kill him, but had no choice, he told them. Justice Elliott said there was no evidence to show these assertions to police were accurate. Hours earlier on that fateful morning, Dipacce had been granted bail after being arrested for an alleged car theft. As a bail condition, he was ordered not to associate with the three co-accused, including the victim. But soon after his release, Dipacce met up with the victim not far from Dandenong police station and travelled to the Endeavour Hills unit where the fight took place, Justice Elliott noted. The judge noted the “deep, ongoing and lasting sorrow and pain” for the victim’s mother, family and partner. The mother’s life was “turned upside down”, and the family isolated and non-functional due to the trauma, the judge stated. Dipacce has been assessed with a low IQ of 74 and a cannabis-use disorder. He had shown some remorse and contrition – but “not profoundly so”, Judge Elliott stated. He had “at least reasonable” prospects of rehabilitation, as a young person with strong family support and no violent or criminal priors. The violence was not premeditated, but a “spontaneous response to the situation you
County Court of Victoria. found yourself in”, the judge stated. “The prosecution correctly accepted that your offending was not at the higher end of seriousness and that your intention to try and ‘choke out’ (the victim) in order to stop the fight reduces your subjective culpability.” However, young men needed to be
“strongly discouraged from resolving their differences with violence”, he said. Dipacce was jailed for up to seven-anda-half years, with a non-parole period of five years. His term includes 562 days of pre-sentence detention.
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NEWS
Lost our minds or priorities? Opinion by Dr Jamel Kaur Singh and Dya Singh Dad heard on the television that Australians were spending a fortune on Halloween. So naturally, we investigated. Turns out we’re forecast to spend $510 million this year! Half a billion dollars on lollies, costumes, plastic skeletons and making perfectly respectable homes look like crime scenes. Around 4.4 million Australians are expected to participate, averaging $117 each. Christmas is around the corner, and Australians spend billions more on presents, food and celebrations. Meanwhile, we’re complaining about the cost of living, queuing for smartphones costing upwards of $3,000 and wondering why our bank accounts resemble a drought-stricken paddock. Before someone calls us Halloween Grinches, we have a question. Are we spending money on things that make our lives better, or simply buying things because somebody convinced us we needed them or peer pressure? Saffal, our son and grandson respectively, challenged us on this. He reckons we’re missing something important. And he’s right. What about the local butcher selling Christmas prawns? The fruit shop selling cherries? The restaurant employing extra staff? The family taking their children trick-or-treating and meeting neighbours they’ve never spoken to? Spending creates jobs, supports businesses and builds memories. Melbourne City Council spent $3.3 million on Christmas decorations and associated costs in
2023. Outrageous? Well, the council reported its previous Christmas festival attracted 1.4 million visitors and generated an estimated $130 million in economic activity. Suddenly the conversation changes! The question isn’t simply what something costs. It’s what we get in return. Could schools, TAFEs, universities, local artists and businesses collaborate on spectacular Christmas displays? Could we create apprenticeships, showcase local talent, reuse materials and build community pride? Perhaps. Let’s compare the options instead of automatically assuming that spending more delivers more - or that spending less is always smarter. Now let’s bring that thinking home. When did every birthday become a wedding, every wedding require a second mortgage and every child’s party need a professional photographer, balloon arch and lolly buffet? Fifty per cent off something you never needed isn’t saving money! Trust us, we have to remind ourselves of that one too. And has anyone checked whether the Joneses we’re trying to keep up with are actually solvent? Social media has turned ordinary life into a competitive sport. Bigger holidays, newer cars, designer everything and perfectly curated celebrations. But here’s the uncomfortable question: if nobody could see what you bought, would you still want it? There’s a difference between spending money because something brings genuine joy and spending money because we’re frightened of appearing unsuccessful.
Let’s not even go into the fact that our gambling spend is the worst in the world! And why do we celebrate what we celebrate? Halloween has roots in Celtic traditions and Christian observances connected with remembering the dead. Christmas celebrates Christ’s birth and teachings of love and compassion. Diwali celebrates light overcoming darkness. Hanukkah remembers the rededication of the Second Temple. Vaisakhi celebrates the formation of the Khalsa and Sikh values of courage, equality and service. Ramadan encourages reflection, discipline and generosity, while Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrates gratitude, forgiveness and family. Different traditions, extraordinary values. Yet somewhere between the meaning and the marketing, we’ve managed to turn celebration into an Olympic shopping event. Are we passing on our values, or simply passing over our credit cards? Dad often says that service is the rent we pay for our time on this planet. In Sikh philosophy, sewa means selfless service. Imagine applying that thinking to our spending. Before dropping another $200 on some-
Alleged gold thieves charged
Body located in Berwick
(File) counts of false imprisonment, common law assault, making threats to kill and car theft. The 13-year-old was remanded to appear at a children’s court on 30 October. The Hallam man was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 21 January. The Mulgrave man was also charged with offences relating to an alleged armed robbery in
Springvale on 24 October, along with another 16-year-old Greater Dandenong boy. They were both charged with armed robbery, common law assault and theft. The Mulgrave man was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 21 January. The 16-year-old was remanded in custody to appear at a children’s court at a later date.
A body was located following a car fire in Berwick on 3 November. Emergency services were called to reports of a car on fire on the Princes Freeway around 11:30am. The police say that at this stage, the death is not being treated as suspicious and that a report is being prepared for the coroner. Motorists faced heavy congestion due to road closures at O’Shea Road until the late afternoon. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com.au.
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A group of South East youths have been charged over an alleged armed home invasion and gold theft in Clyde North. Southern Metro Region Crime Squad detectives say the group assaulted a resident in the Gulling Rise home about 12.45am on Saturday 24 October. They stole a large quantity of gold and other items, police allege. The resident sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital for observation. A 17-year-old Greater Dandenong boy was arrested at the scene. He was charged with aggravated home invasion with an offensive weapon, three counts of false imprisonment, common law assault, making threats to kill and car theft. The boy was remanded in custody to appear at a children’s court at a later date. On 29 October, detectives executed three consecutive search warrants and arrested three teenagers. A 13-year-old Greater Dandenong boy, an 18-year-old Hallam man and an 18-year-old Mulgrave man were each charged with aggravated home invasion with an offensive weapon, three
thing destined for landfill, ask what else it could achieve. Reduce debt? Build savings? Support a local business? Help someone less fortunate? Create an experience your children will actually remember? We’re constantly calling for financial literacy in schools, but children learn just as much around the kitchen table. Do we teach them to budget, save, invest and give? Or that every disappointment requires a purchase and every celebration must outdo the last? And governments, the same questions apply to you. Taxpayer money isn’t Monopoly money. But neither is every dollar spent on festivals, public art or community events automatically wasted. Good investment can attract visitors, support businesses, create jobs and strengthen communities. Show us the outcomes. Show us the alternatives. Show us the value. If a $3 million festival delivers genuine benefits, explain them. If local artists and students can deliver something better for less, give them a chance. And if we’re spending millions simply because that’s what we’ve always done, perhaps somebody should ask whether the potholes might appreciate a little attention. Truth be told... Yes, governments deserve scrutiny for rising costs, wasteful spending and poor decisions. But are they responsible for every dollar missing from our bank accounts? It’s easy to blame Canberra, Spring Street or the local council. It’s a little less comfortable to examine our own credit card statements!
6 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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NEWS
Big day looms People over profit time By Jensy Callimootoo With Victoria’s state election less than a month away, One Nation’s growing popularity across the outer south-east has raised questions about the region’s electoral landscape — but one key electorate may prove difficult to shift, according to a political expert. Speaking on the Berwick seat, political science professor, Zareh Ghazarian, says Liberal incumbent and former party leader Brad Battin is likely to retain his seat, despite the potential for a strong One Nation performance in the region. Battin has been a sitting MP for 16 years, formerly holding the seat of Gembrook in 2010. In 2022, he gained the Berwick seat on a 4.7 per cent margin. One Nation’s Michael Piastrino, a former Liberal himself who lost against Dan Andrews for the Mulgrave seat in 2022, is now facing Battin at the ballot box. New to the game of politics, Labor’s Rana Khan, police officer of 14 years, will also be trying for the Berwick seat. Piastrino, a hairdresser and business owner, is campaigning on a platform of reducing crime and easing cost-of-living pressures for Victorian households and businesses. In August, Piastrino told Star News that defeating Battin would be an “uphill battle”. “It’s not going to be a walk in the park,” he said. “Brad’s had that seat for a long time. I’m going to give it everything I’ve got. “I can do it.” Ghazarian says One Nation, which has quickly emerged as a key disruptor to Victoria’s traditional two-party political landscape, is targeting outer metropolitan electorates in growth corridors, where concerns about infrastructure, housing and hospitals are particularly high. “Looking at all the other electorates in the metropolitan region, One Nation’s probably expecting to do well in these sorts of electorates in the southeastern suburbs,” he said. “I think you’d be feeling that One Nation will give
this a real shot,” he added, referencing Berwick’s neighbouring electorate of Pakenham where leader Warren Pickering is running. “These electorates appear to be potentially winnable by other candidates.” But as the election draws closer, irrespective of One Nation’s and Piastrino’s performance at the voting booths, with Battin’s’ “high profile” in Victorian politics, Ghazarian says he’ll likely be able to hold the Berwick seat. “I think the standing of Brad Battin and the sense that there is a momentum at the moment on the Coalition side, suggests that he should be able to retain his seat, even if there’s a strong performance by One Nation,” he said. The latest opinion poll shows that the Coalition is on track to take majority government in Victoria. “If voters get a sense of how their local candidate is treating their constituency, their community, or taking them for granted, then voters are very quickly identifying this and moving on to another candidate to support,” he said. “But you would think that if Brad Battin survived the 2022 election, which was a pretty poor election for the Liberal Party and it looks to be that support for the party is on an upward trajectory, then that should be something that carries him over the line.” Weighing in on the election, in late October Battin told Star News he was quite “confident” that he would do well in Berwick, but remained grounded on a possible final outcome. “It’s obviously always a challenge,” he said. “You don’t really know until the day after. As I’ve always said, you wake up with a hangover, a good or a bad one. In contrast to the 2022 election, Battin says the biggest difference is the unfamiliarity in Berwick’s population growth. “We’ve got 23,000 new people in the electorate… so I don’t know where they’re going to vote.”
By Christsent Ane Rokobuli Victorian Socialist, Nalinda Gunawardana will be standing for the seat of Berwick in the upcoming state election, focusing on local needs rather than profit. “Living in a traditionally Liberal seat, I think it’s important that we have a candidate that represents a party that unashamedly puts workers first.” Gunawardana said. As a local engineer and former manager of City of Casey Infrastructure, Gunawardana is taking on the major parties to put Berwick workers first. “One nation spreads community hate and has no program or concerns for the everyday life of ordinary people,” he said. “Only the Victorian Socialists are on the
workers’ and ordinary people’s side and will take concrete action.” The socialist aims to expand local services and ease economic pressures by pledging for new MRI unit and mental health unit for Casey Hospital a State Bank to tackle interest rates crisis and inflation and offers a free publicly run childcare centre. With a passion on human rights Gunawardana has been involved in community organising, campaigns against racism as well as calling for active action on climate change for over 25 years. “In a wealthy society like Australia, everyone should have the chance to live a decent life but politicians from major parties have failed to make it happen and have no regards on ordinary people.” he said.
Victoria Socialists’ Nalinda Gunawardana will stand for the Berwick seat.
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
Sandown set for huge Greyhound Melbourne Cup
Afghan Races.
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Sportsbet Melbourne Cup, on Saturday 28 November. General admission tickets are free, while hospitality packages start from just $50, which includes a gourmet barbeque and four drink vouchers. “This is our biggest night of the year. It attracts the best greyhounds from around the country, and you have to be an exceptional dog to win the Melbourne Cup,” said Scott. “There’ll be plenty happening off the track as well – someone will get to spin the famous Sandown Wheel and have the chance to win a brand new car. And, back by popular demand, we’ll be having Afghan races on the night, which are always a hit!” To book your tickets for the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Sandown Park, head to www.sandowngreyhounds.com.au or ring the office on (03) 9546 9511.
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The Sandown Greyhound Racing Club’s annual Melbourne Cup Carnival gets underway with Ladies’ Night on Friday 13 November, which will be headlined by the Group 2 Catanach’s Jewellers Laurels Classic. “We’re excited to have Catanach’s Jewellers on board as this year’s sponsor of the Laurels, especially since it will be Ladies’ Night,” said Adrian Scott, CEO of the Sandown Greyhound Racing Club. “Everyone who books a ticket will receive a free cocktail on arrival, and one lucky on-course patron will win a $3,000 gold and diamond necklace, thanks to Catanach’s Jewellers as well.” Eight days later, Sandown Park will play host to another huge night of quality racing, where popular tribute band Rewind 80s will keep punters entertained outside. The three-week series culminates with the World’s Greatest Greyhound Race, the Group 1
Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 7
NEWS
Arts unit cuts ‘bungle’ By Jensy Callimootoo Federation University is dealing with the repercussions of a major bungle, after staff were called into a “snap meeting” and left thinking that nearly 90 per cent of its arts subjects would be cut — but the university says this was not the intention of the meeting, and that they will be no cuts to its arts offerings. The meeting took place on Monday 26 October, where staff say they were given “10 minutes’ notice” by management. Some say they left confused about their employment and position at the university. During the meeting, they were reportedly told 87 per cent of arts courses and some cuts to Berwick’s criminology units would not continue in 2027 but the university has disputed these allegations blaming a miscommunication. It marks the second time in four years that the university has announced cuts to its arts program with the plans later scrapped. Not long after the meeting, the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) announced its plan to “fight against the cuts” by lodging a formal dispute regarding the lack of consultation with staff, but it wasn’t long until the university announced it wasn’t cutting 87 per cent of Bachelor of Arts offerings or Berwick’s Bachelor of Criminology and that the meeting was only intended to be an annual review of units, which assesses “low-enrolment’ units. In a statement to Star News, the university confirmed that a recent meeting left some staff “concerned and confused” regarding the program’s future. Typically, unit reviews are scheduled ahead of time, with all staff given ample warning, but this was not the case this instance. During the meeting, a figure was cited based on outdated information, including unit performance data from 2025. The figure was intended to display enrolment patterns across arts units and not an indication of the subjects being cut.
Federation University. “We understand why staff were concerned, and have been clear in correcting the information and apologising for how it was communicated,” said a spokesperson. The reviews aim to ensure their curriculum is meeting student demands while delivering “a great university experience.” “A subject with just one or two students does not provide that experience,” said the spokesperson. The spokesperson added that the university is legally required to assess its academic performance and standards. And that it’s doing so against “significant financial pressure on regional universities” as well as federal policies that make “humanities subjects considerably more expensive for stu-
dents.” “Despite these pressures,” said the spokesperson. “Arts remains an important part of Federation’s teaching offering. Our focus is on ensuring these offerings remain strong, sustainable and responsive to student needs.” Humanitarian and Social Science lecturer and NTEU branch president Mathew Abbott, is now calling on the university to rule out future cuts to its art courses, including “iron-clad” protection to the university’s art offerings. Emphasising the significance of art degrees, Abbott says that humanities and sociology teaches important skills for critical and ethical thinking, outlining the integral role the units play in preserving curiosity and encouraging a
deeper understanding of the world. A study outlining the Nation’s Arts education “Polycrisis” found that there has been a consistent reduction of available arts courses across universities and in the TAFE sector. The 2021 introduction of the Job-Ready Graduates policy which increased the cost of arts and creative courses was cited as a major driver. As well as declining enrolments, closure of courses and a reduction in subject offerings. Abbott says arts courses are frequently undervalued as the focus on vocational education increases. The arts is typically considered not favourable for the job market, says Abbott, with many under the pretence that the units are ‘old-fashioned’, but Abbott says this couldn’t be “further from the truth”.
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Regional migration reaches equal-record June quarter high as Northern Queensland emerges as a growth hotspot Regional migration reaches equalrecord June quarter high as Northern Queensland emerges as a growth hotspot. The latest Regional Movers Index reveals a northerly trend as Queensland’s Burdekin, Tablelands and Douglas regions attract some of nation’s strongest growth in net internal Migration. Australians are continuing to embrace regional living, with the latest Regional Movers Index (RMI) showing capital-to-regional migration reached its equal-highest June quarter on record, matching levels last seen in 2021. The RMI is a partnership between the Commonwealth Bank (CBA) and Regional Australia Institute (RAI), and tracks population movements between Australia’s capital cities to regions, and region-to-region migration. The latest results show capital city residents moving to regional. Australia continued to outnumber those moving in the opposite direction by 30%.
While established destinations continued to attract the largest share of movers, this quarter also points to a broader spread of migration into more regional communities as the benefits of regional living draw people further afield. Northern Queensland was particularly prominent, with the LGAs of Burdekin, Tablelands and Douglas among the nation’s fastest growing destinations. RAI CEO Liz Ritchie says movement typically eases during the June quarter as fewer Australians tend to relocate in the cooler months, which makes this result particularly noteworthy. “The Regional Movers Index recorded its equal highest June quarter on record, matching the height of migration reached during the pandemic in 2021. This tells us the appeal of country living remains incredibly strong all year round, even outside the traditional peak moving periods,” Ritchie said. CBA Regional and Agribusiness Banking Executive General Manager Kylie Allen says Northern
Queensland’s growth comes alongside broad industry investment helping generate diverse local economies. Burdekin is supported by agriculture, manufacturing and renewable energy, while the Tablelands is strong in both agribusiness and tourism benefiting from its proximity to Cairns. Douglas is backed by a vibrant tourism economy and continued investment in local Infrastructure. “Across Northern Queensland, local investment is helping regions capitalise on their distinct strengths and drive broader economic growth. When local businesses invest and expand, the benefits flow through the wider economy, creating jobs, attracting skilled workers and strengthening the services and supply chains that help regional communities thrive,” Allen said. Not to be outdone by the Sunshine State, Central Goldfields in Victoria took out the number one spot for the fastest growing destination in the country. “As more Australians embrace regional living, sustained migration is
strengthening local economies while underscoring the need for services and infrastructure that keeps pace with growing communities,” Allen said. Find out more at CommBank Newsroom 12909190-JO45-26
8 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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“I just feel like I’ve blossomed.” Carol, Cranbourne North assisted living resident
When Carol’s needs changed, she and her family began looking at
It’s the combination of welcoming people, quality facilities, security
different living options. Their goal was simple: find somewhere she
and freedom has made Summerset Cranbourne North feel like
could live life on her terms and have independence, while having
home so quickly.
access to support when needed. It quickly became apparent that finding somewhere that ticked all the boxes wasn’t going to be easy. When they found Summerset Cranbourne North, everything changed. The village offered Carol something she hadn’t been able to find elsewhere: assisted living apartments that enable the lifestyle she enjoys, while knowing support is always close at hand if needed. “You have your freedom, but you also have medical care. There’s always somebody around watching over you and making sure your world is right.”
For anyone wondering whether village living could be right for them, Carol’s advice is straightforward. “If you’re looking for a new living experience, I would recommend you come and have a look at Summerset. It’s just a lovely place to be.” With a range of homes available now,* you could be living the Summerset life sooner than you think. Book an appointment with our friendly team today and discover why Carol and so many others love calling Summerset Cranbourne North home. Love the life you choose.
Book an appointment today Open 7 days, 9am to 5pm Summerset Cranbourne North 98 Mannavue Boulevard, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 | cranbourne.sales@summerset.com.au *Homes are secured by purchase of the licence to occupy and are subject to availability and eligibility criteria. Rental options are not available. 12897244-MS45-26
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
A $3.2 million privately funded restoration project is transforming more than 17 hectares of damaged coastal land at Cannons Creek back into saltmarsh and native grassland.
Saltmarsh on the land.
Landholder Michael Valenti and Australian Ecosystems director Brendan Condon OAM at the restored land at Cannons Creek. (Stewart Chambers: 587657)
Saltmarsh on the land.
Scarred land to saltmarsh A $3.2 million privately funded restoration project is transforming more than 17 hectares of damaged coastal land at Cannons Creek back into saltmarsh and native grassland. By Violet Li Landholder Michael Valenti has spent years removing imported fill and restoring native vegetation on his 76-hectare family property near the internationally significant Western Port Ramsar Site. More than 170,000 native plants have been propagated for the project, which aims to rebuild saltmarsh, grassland and estuarine habitat damaged by decades of farming practices and land filling. The restoration began after ecological investigations found about 13,208 cubic metres of fill across the property, including clay, brick, glass and building rubble, with some deposits reaching 1.1 metres deep. From farmland to restoration Michael’s parents bought the farm in 1987 and used it largely for cattle farming. During the 1990s, his father excavated drainage and altered parts of the low-lying land in an effort to make it more practical for agriculture. Michael said his father had not understood the environmental consequences. “He didn’t know that this was the wrong intention,” he said. “He tried to just use the land as practical as he can. “Imported fill was accepted onto the site over a long period to raise low-lying areas so they could be farmed. This was common practice in the past and done out of a lack of understanding
of the environmental values and covered large areas of saltmarsh habitat.” As knowledge of the land’s ecological significance grew, however, Michael decided the damage needed to be addressed. The process began around 2019 and involved City of Casey, ecological consultants Biosis, Australian Ecosystems and Regen Nurseries. Michael said the beginning was daunting. “We didn’t have all the information; what had happened, who do we get information from. It got very legal,” he said. “But I knew when I met council enforcement that I wanted to fix this.” The City of Casey’s original enforcement process ultimately resulted in a formal Section 173 Agreement requiring remediation and revegetation in accordance with the Biosis Land Remediation and Revegetation Management Plans. A delicate job with heavy machinery Fill had to be painstakingly removed until machinery reached the original swamp surface underneath. Biosis mapped the historic vegetation communities, while locally sourced seeds and cuttings were collected and propagated. More than 170,000 plants were originally planned for the revegetation program, including species such as Beaded Glasswort, Austral Seablite, Rounded Noon-flower, Prickly Spear-grass and Australian Salt-grass. Australian Ecosystems director Brendan Condon OAM said the work required extraordinary precision. “It’s like being very delicate with a 20-ton excavator,” he said. The boggy conditions made earthworks particularly difficult. Excavators became stuck, wet winters slowed progress and the costs kept climbing. Brendan said what was expected to be challenging became an enormous undertaking. “The earthworks project was bigger than they thought, and they got bogged down in the middle of winter,” he said. “They had a lot of hardship during this project, but he (Michael) just was committed and tenacious to see the project through.” Michael said there were moments when rain,
Saltmarsh on the land. tides, nursery schedules and planting crews all had to align, with hundreds of thousands of plants needing to get into the ground quickly enough to prevent exposed soil from eroding or becoming overrun with weeds. “We didn’t want to leave this exposed to weeds or erosion and sediment to go into Western Port Bay,” he said. “We just had to compete with the rain that we had, the tide coming in, the plants being ready to plant … and having the team out to deploy.” Nature starts to return Now, the results are increasingly visible. Brendan said planted areas were already producing their own seed, with new plants germinating naturally and gradually filling the gaps. Over the next seven to 10 years, careful weed control, monitoring and infill planting will continue until the restored vegetation develops into a resilient, interconnected saltmarsh ecosystem. Saltmarshes can appear modest from a distance, but Brendan describes them as “biological infrastructure”. They provide habitat for migratory birds, fish and invertebrates, filter sediment and nutrients from water, protect coastlines from flooding and erosion, and store carbon in waterlogged soils. Australian saltmarshes are estimated to hold more than 200 million tonnes of organic carbon. According to Brendan, a 17-hectare saltmarsh restoration project like Cannons Creek could draw down 2,500 to 4,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide over 100 years. “The way this site is rebounding with the return of nature and biodiversity gives me hope for
the future and shows what can be achieved when we put nature at the heart of how we manage our landscapes,” Brendan said. Among the species that can depend on saltmarsh is the critically endangered orange-bellied parrot, which migrates between Tasmania and mainland Australia. Michael has already noticed more birdlife on the property, including Cape Barren geese and ducks. “This is actually a food haven now,” he said. The project has also changed Michael’s own relationship with the environment. A property developer by profession, he laughed at the contrast between his usual work and what he has created at Cannons Creek. “I build kindergartens, townhouses, subdivisions, and I’ve always helped the humans,” he said. “And this time, I’ve helped nature and animals more so to find their home and their habitat.” A legacy for the next generation Michael now intends to donate the restored section of the property to the City of Casey for conservation, with hopes it could eventually be used for carefully managed public access and environmental education. He wants younger generations, in particular, to understand why wetlands once regarded as unusable land are worth protecting. “I’m hoping in 100, 200, 300 years, this is just going to be something of a great accomplishment,” he said. For Brendan, the project offers a lesson well beyond one property. Much of Victoria’s remaining environmentally significant vegetation exists on private land, he said, making cooperation with landholders critical. “This is one of the largest privately funded conservation efforts in Victoria,” Brendan said. “I have a lot of admiration for Micheal. He inherited this problem and the restoration placed him under enormous financial pressure. “Halfway through the project he was also diagnosed with cancer and underwent intensive chemotherapy, thankfully now in remission. “He is a case study in resilience and commitment.”
Data centres set for vote in December Casey councillors will decide the fate of a controversial proposed data centre in Clyde North at the December Council Meeting. The City of Casey confirmed on Friday 30 October that the planning permit application for the proposed data centres at 585 Berwick-Cranbourne Road would be considered at the Tuesday 8 December Council Meeting. A detailed council officer report, including
10 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
an assessment of the application and a recommendation, is expected to be released with the meeting agenda on Thursday 3 December. Councillors will then consider the report and relevant planning information before voting on whether to approve the proposal. The application has attracted significant community interest since it was lodged, prompting councillors to “call in” the application in
August so the final decision would be made at a public council meeting rather than by council officers. Council said the application documents remain available for residents to inspect at Bunjil Place, where members of its planning team can also answer questions about the proposal. The council is separately consulting the community about the opportunities, impacts and is-
sues residents believe should be considered in future data centre developments across Casey. The State Government announced new proposed planning rules for data centres in September, but those changes will not apply retrospectively to the Clyde North application, which is already under assessment. The proposed data centre remains unapproved at this stage.
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REMEMBRANCE DAY Lest we forget
Remembrance Day 2025 in Pearcedale.
Remembrance Day 2025 in Pearcedale.
Berwick’s Remembrance Day in 2025.
2024’s service in Cranbourne.
Services across Casey Remembrance Day will be held on Wednesday 11 November, a day marked to remember those who served the country. Here is a list of local commemorations in the
City of Casey and the surrounding area. ■ Berwick Remembrance Day Service 9:00 am – 11:30 am Berwick Cenotaph (Corner of High Street and
Clyde Road) ■ Cranbourne Remembrance Day Service 10:30 am –11:30 am Cranbourne Cenotaph (Greg Clydesdale
Square, High Street) ■ Pearcedale Remembrance Day Service 9:00 am – 11:30 am Pearcedale Public Hall (45 Pearcedale Road)
REMEMBRANCE DAY As members of the Akoonah Park Men’s Shed community, we pause on Remembrance Day to reflect on the courage, mateship and sacrifice of those who have served Australia in times of war and peace. Their service reminds us of the value of mateship, community and looking after one another.
Berwick RSL Inc.
Service for Remembrance Day will be held at the Memorial in High St, Berwick. The service will commence at 10:45 am. On behalf of the Berwick RSL Sub-branch, especially our veteran community, I would like to thank you the people of Berwick and surrounds for your very generous donations and support as part of our Poppy and ANZAC Appeals. All money raised from these appeals goes directly into supporting the veteran community of Berwick.
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LEST WE FORGET
Lest We Forget. 0455 556 437 Berwick RSL Welfare Team 12915126-MS45-26
Head of Campus
17 November 2026
Talk & Tour
9.30am - 11.00 am
Register at www.sfx.vic.edu.au
Berwick, Officer and Beaconsfield Campuses 12817005-JO45-26
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 11
FOCUS ON … SENIORS
A new lifestyle awaits
Book a visit to experience Riverfield for yourself, located at 25 Concerto Street, Clyde. self, or ask about receiving a free, independent Financial Insights Report to see how downsizing could stack up for you. Visit lifestylecommunities.com.au or call 1300 50 55 60 to speak with the Lifestyle Communities team. With 25 Lifestyle Communities across Victoria, there’s even more choice when it comes to finding the community, home and location that feels right for you. Disclaimer *Price excludes ongoing site fees and other charg-
es under a separate site agreement. Subject to availability, see lifestylecommunities.com.au for full details. ^Based on homeowners who sold their previous home and purchased a home at Lifestyle Communities Riverfield, using recorded sale and purchase prices. The $268,000 figure is the median difference between those prices. It does not take into account transaction costs associated with selling or buying. Individual circumstances and outcomes vary.
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Downsizing can be about so much more than changing where you live. It can be an opportunity to unlock more possibilities from your home, simplify the everyday and create more freedom for the things you want to do next. At Lifestyle Communities Riverfield in Clyde, that next chapter comes with a vibrant community, resort-style amenities and plenty of ways to spend your days on your terms. From the indoor pool and spa and reformer Pilates to pickleball, a private cinema and welcoming spaces to connect with neighbours, Riverfield has been designed to make everyday living feel that little bit better. For homeowners considering downsizing, there may also be a financial benefit. Riverfield homeowners had a median $268,000 price difference between the sale price of their original home and the purchase price of their home at Lifestyle Communities Riverfield.^ With homes from $561,000* and a range of homes still available, now is a great time to discover whether a move to Riverfield could be right for you. With household budgets under pressure, downsizing could mean less money tied up in your home and more flexibility for everyday expenses, time with family, hobbies or whatever matters most to you. Located at 25 Concerto Street, Clyde, Riverfield is already home to a vibrant community, with an impressive Clubhouse and resort-style amenities ready to enjoy. Making your move could be simpler than you think. Secure your new home with a total deposit of just $5,000, with nothing more to pay until settlement and no stamp duty to pay. Ask about our current settlement offers and discover how they could make your move even easier. Speak with a Lifestyle Consultant today to find out more. Less tied up in your home could mean more for what comes next. Book a visit to experience Riverfield for your-
12 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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NEWS
Coalition landslide firms, tight race set By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Dr Zareh Ghazarian, a political scientist and senior lecturer at Monash University. primary vote seems to be over 30 per cent. If it’s over 30 per cent, it’s not too far away. “On the other hand, it’s surreal to be talking about Labor in this way. For the past 12 years, they’ve been on the up-and-up and barely put a foot wrong in those campaigns.” The Coalition was running a “tight and professional”, ‘small target’ campaign. “Their campaign is focused very much on the
Four men were arrested after an extended follow by police through Melbourne’s South East, including Dandenong and Devon Meadows. Police say they sighted an allegedly stolen Toyota Landcruiser Prado travelling at a fast rate of speed on Beach Road in Beaumaris about 1.40am on Friday 30 October. With the assistance of its Air Wing, police tracked the vehicle through Parkdale and Dandenong. The Prado allegedly sped up to 170 km/h while being driven contraflow on South Gippsland Highway, police say. However the highway was closed near the intersection with Fisheries Road, Devon Meadows. The Prado collided with water barriers and cyclone fencing at the roadworks site. It travelled for a short distance before being allegedly abandoned. The occupants, who fled on foot, were arrested by police uniform members with assistance from the Air Wing and Dog Squad. Aged between 23 and 25, the men were to be interviewed by police. The Toyota Landcruiser was stolen from Glen Iris on 25 October, police say. The investigation remains ongoing. Any CCTV, dashcam footage or information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com. au.
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At least three South Eastern Metropolitan MPs in the state’s upper house are battling to keep their seats in this month’s election. According to a Roy Morgan poll last month, Labor is on track to halve its South Eastern Metro representation from two MPs to one, putting Michael Galea at risk. Meanwhile, the Liberals are poised to go from one MP to two – a potential fillip for sitting MP Ann-Marie Hermans, who had been demoted to No.2 on the Liberals’ ticket. Greens and One Nation were tracking to gain an MP in the region, at the expense of Libertarian leader David Limbrick and Legalise Cannabis’s Rachel Payne. The latter pair’s prospects were severely dented after State Parliament recently passed an electoral reform to scrap group voting tickets. Overall, the balance of power in the Upper House was evenly poised with 18 MPs from the Liberal-Nationals Coalition and One Nation and 18 from the ALP and Greens, with four seats to be decided by preferences. The breakdown was 12 to the Coalition, 10 to the ALP, with gains to both the Greens (8 seats) and One Nation (6). Meanwhile in the lower house, Roy Morgan predicts the Coalition will sweep to power with a 56 per cent to 44 per cent two-party-preferred lead over Labor. Political scientist Dr Zareh Ghazarian said recent polling suggests a Liberal-Nationals landslide win, while Labor was plumbing an “historic” low in the primary vote (about 24 per cent). “One of the positives for the Coalition is their
leader Jess Wilson, which is partly explained by market research revealing the leader is popular.” But there will be a time that the Coalition has to answer “questions” on its costings and broader policy platform, Dr Ghazarian said. Labor’s new premier Ben Carroll had a “difficult task” trying to convince voters he has fresh ideas, as part of a government in power for 12 years, he said. Dr Ghazarian said Labor scare ads about the prospect of a Coalition-One Nation alliance “make sense”. “Victoria has been a very poor state for One Nation in the past. “Those sorts of ads are trying to link the Liberal-Nationals Coalition to a party that has not done well in this state.” But One Nation has risen dramatically in the polls this year. This didn’t happen in a vacuum, but is linked to what the major parties were doing, Dr Ghazarian said. “For Labor, it’s been driven by the allegations of corruption, the sense of ‘It’s Time’. At the same time, the Coalition in Victoria has for a decade appeared to have been divided and uncertain about its policy agenda. “In this context, One Nation has presented itself as the more stable and united political force. “But with its primary vote of 20 per cent, it’s coming third in the primaries. It’s unlikely to govern in its own right.” However, with a potential balance of power in the upper house, One Nation could potentially wield a lot more influence over the government and legislation. With Roy Morgan suggesting an even split in conservative and progressive MPs in the upper house, it could be “tough” to get legislation through, Dr Ghazarian said.
Four men arrested
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 13
NEWS
A time for giving A local organisation in Casey has a special mission ahead of the Christmas period; to fill their shelves with gifts, food and toys for local families doing it tough during the holiday season. Casey North Community Information and Support Service (CNCISS) has cleared their shelves and is inviting the community to donate whatever they can through the Holiday Hope Appeal. Starting in November, the program aims to raise $30,000 as well as enough toys and gifts to
fill the new storeroom. It also hopes to stock the pantry with non-perishable food and festive treats for families. The organisation’s Executive Officer Sean Coleman said the appeal was a way to transform community generosity into practical support. “For many families, Christmas is a time of joy, but when you’re already struggling to pay the rent, keep the lights on or put food on the table, it can also be a time of enormous stress,”
Coleman said. “Being able to choose a gift for your child, prepare a special meal or know there is support available can make a genuine difference.” Demand for support has increased significantly in case, with many turning to local organisations and food hubs for help. This often means community needs exceed available resources. Coleman underscores the importance of community donations when hubs are met with
significant demand. “Community donations allow us to extend that support further and respond to the increasingly complex challenges many local families are facing,” Coleman said. “A toy, a few pantry items, a financial contribution or simply sharing the appeal with others can all help.” To donate, view suggested gift ideas or find out how to get involved, go to caseynorthciss. com.au/holiday-hope
Silver Sounds included Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley, The Seekers and Dolly Parton songs in their set.
Noelene Birnie, Leonie MacCarthy and Flynn Collier.
Elizabeth Tilli with her raffle prize presented by Flynn Collier.
Lions Club celebrates seniors Ring Ring! Robyn Irving from ABBA DABBA Ukes enters the building with a phone.
A fun afternoon of dancing and singing at the Lions Club afternoon tea. (Stewart Chambers: 587142)
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The Lions Club of Casey hosted a fun and vibrant afternoon tea for over 100 senior members on Tuesday 27 October. The festivities formed part of the Victorian Seniors Festival and was packed with fun live music performances from the Silver Sounds and local legends ABBA Dabba Ukes. Attendees got the chance to dance, move their bodies while celebrating their connections and friendships.
14 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 15
WHAT’S ON Dads’ Little Builders For all dads, grandfathers, father figures and their children! Cut, saw and join cardboard pieces to build something awesome. Make memories together and strengthen your bond. All tools and resources provided. Fortnightly on Fridays from 6 November, 6.30pm-8pm at Dharrang Balit Community Centre, 51 Sovereign Ave, Clyde North; free event. Bookings required at https://www.trybooking. com/DORKH
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Bargain Bazaar Casey Choir fundraiser cakes, plants, toys, books, trash/treasure, craft, sausage sizzle, tea and coffee. Everything super cheap! Saturday 7 November, 9.30am-3pm at Arthur Wren Hall, 16-20 Stuart Ave, Hampton Park.
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Berwick Show Society garage sale Power Tools, saws, nails, screws, spanners, hammers, bikes, something for everyone. Many stores and vendors. Hot food available. Saturday 7 November 8am-1pm at Akoonah Park Men’s Shed, Cardinia Street (gate 4), Berwick.
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Adaptation Game Try TAG – a cooperative climate resilience board game created by the City of Casey. Using maps of hypothetical floods, heatwaves and bushfires, players work together to respond to real-world challenges and explore how communities can prepare and adapt. No gaming experience required. Monday 9 November, 1pm-3pm at Autumn Place Community Hub, Doveton; free event. Bookings required: 9792 7382 or autumnplacech@casey.vic.gov.au
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Zumba in the Park Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance workout suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Weekly on Tuesdays 10 November-24 November, 5.45pm-6.45pm at Wilson Botanic Park Berwick, 668 Princes Hwy, Berwick; free event. Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/ CZZRC
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Waste & Recycling Information Night Information session on the current and future state of waste and recycling in Casey and the South East. Hear from industry experts and local waste professionals as we unpack some of the most common questions about waste management, recycling, food and garden organics (FOGO), kerbside reform and emerging
waste technologies. Light refreshments provided. Tuesday 10 November 6.30pm-9pm at Bunjil Place Function Centre, 2 Patrick NE Dr, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings essential at https://tickets.bunjilplace.com.au/11711
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Remembrance Day Services are being held across Casey to commemorate those who have bravely served our country. Wednesday 11 November at Berwick cenotaph (9am-11.30am), Cranbourne cenotaph (10.30am-11.30am) and Pearcedale Public Hall (9am-11.30am)
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Community Cooking Class and Lunch A vibrant Vietnamese and Thai-themed community lunch in partnership with One Harmony. Live cooking demos, hands-on activities. Wednesday 11 November, 11.30am-1pm at Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris Street, Lynbrook; $5. Bookings required at https:// www.trybooking.com/DPNPV
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Follow Your Recycling Tour Hop on the bus and travel to Cleanaway’s materials recovery facility in Laverton and (hopefully) Cleanaway’s Recycling Education Centre in Hallam, before returning to Bunjil Place. For people over 16 only. Fully catered. – Thursday 12 November, 9am-4.30pm at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren; free event. Bookings required at https://events.humanitix. com/follow-your-recycling-tour-2-2026-city-ofcasey
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Tai Chi at the Gardens Tai Chi is a gentle mind-body practice combining slow, flowing movements with breathing and relaxation. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Thursdays 12 November and 26 November 10am-11am at Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne; free event. Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/DQISQ
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Berwick Farmers Market
Kirkwood Night Market
A no craft market – only farm fresh fruit and veggies, open range ethical eggs, honey, baked goods, artisan breads, vegetable seedlings, ethically raised meats, jams and preserves, dairy, wine, nuts, ready to eat goods. – Saturday 14 November, 8am-12pm at Old Cheese Factory, Homestead Road, Berwick; gold coin entry.
Local vendors, food, drinks, fashion, art, live music and kids section. – Saturday 28 November, 3pm-8pm at 52 Kirkwood Crescent, Hampton Park. Details: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61566225292253#
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Kids’ Disco For all dads, grandfathers, father figures and their children. Join us for a free disco for you and the kids. Hosted by Cranbourne Dads’ Group Saturday 14 November 10am-12pm at Cranbourne Community House, 49 Valepark Cres, Cranbourne; free event. Bookings: https://www. trybooking.com/DKADJ
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Cranbourne Chorale Presents a concert, Pleasant Sunday Afternoon, followed by scrumptious afternoon tea. Sunday November 15, 2.30pm at the Uniting Church, 41 Lesdon Ave., Cranbourne; $30/$25. Bookings: 0457 575 535 or tix available at the door.
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Line Dancing Put on your dancing shoes and learn to line dance in our outdoor line dancing class. All ages and dance abilities are welcome. Tuesday 17 November 10am-11.30am at Bunjil Place Plaza, Narre Warren; free entry.
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Hard-to-Recycle Items Drop Off Day Book a time to dispose of old clothes, linens, soft plastics, unwanted electronics, cardboard, or polystyrene cluttering your home. For City of Casey residents and household quantities only. Saturday 21 November, 9am-2.30pm at Casey Works Centre, 30 Vesper Dr, Narre Warren; free event. Registrations: https://events. humanitix.com/hard-to-recycle-items-drop-offday
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Pollinator Night
Gardening Together for kids, dads and granddads
Plant a seed and make an insect hotel to create habitat for pollinators. Have a close-up look at some of our smallest pollinators at work in the Farm’s gardens. Catch the Myuna train to the pollinating Grey-headed Flying Foxes’ colony. Dress code: closed toe shoes with the option to dress as a pollinator (bee, butterfly, bat, etc) Thursday 12 November, 4.30pm-6.30pm at Myuna Farm, Kidds Road, Doveton; $5. Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/DQUHH
Children and grandchildren (aged 3-6 years) can join 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. All gardening tools and resources provided. Saturday 21 November 10am-11.30am at Old Cheese Factory community garden, Homestead Road, Berwick; free entry. Bookings required: https://www.trybooking.com/DOTSJ
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Melbourne Pasifika Festival Childrens activities, Pasifika food and merch, arts, crafts, guest artists, traditional dance and rugby clinic. Saturday 5 December, 10am-7pm at Banjo Paterson Park (playground end), Lynbrook.
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U3A Casey Live, laugh, learn we have 800 members and 100 interest groups run by volunteers. There is definitely an activity for everyone and we are always looking for more suggestions. Yearly membership for seniors (55-years-plus) $75, commencing late January 2027. Details: www.u3acasey.org.au
•Junior Chess Academy
Dandenong-Casey Chesscapades for ages 5-17. All skill levels welcome. Held by DandenongCasey Chess Club. Sundays 1pm-3pm at 289 Power Road Endeavour Hills. Details: Paul, 0451 215 967.
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Men’s morning discussions Discussion group for older men. An opportunity to connect with other men. All welcome. third Friday or last Thursday of the month, 9am -12pm at Timbarra Community Centre, 2026 Parkhill Drive, Berwick. Details: John, 0431 844 833.
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A Laugh A Minute with Dee Looking for something fun, relaxing and social? Come and be part of friendly activity group run by the fabulously funny Dee. Activities include gentle exercise, arts and craft, games, music and memories and friendly chats. All abilities welcome. Tuesdays 1pm-2.30pm at Timbarra Community Centre, 20-26 Parkhill Drive, Berwick; $2. Details: 9704 1863 or admin@berwicknc.com. au
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Pilates, Yoga, Zumba Regular exercise has been shown to help boost energy levels and enhance your mood. It may also be associated with many other health benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic disease. Various days and times at Balla Balla Community Centre, 7–9 Selandra Blvd, Clyde North.
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NEWS
Point Of Law leads cup By Shayne Hope and Callum Godde, AAP King Charles III might regret selling Point Of Law after the favourite justified his tag in winning the $10 million Melbourne Cup for master trainer Ciaron Maher at Flemington. Maher, who saddled a record seven contenders in Australia’s greatest race, won it for the second time when Point Of Law mowed down his frontrunner Royal Supremacy in the home straight and surged to victory under Ethan Brown. Maher became the first trainer in the Cup’s 166-year history to snare the trifecta, with Ben Melham’s Zahrann finishing second and Sam Clipperton’s Juja Kibo third. Maher had a remarkable six horses in the top 10. Royal Supremacy, ridden by Ben Allen, led by as much as 20 lengths in the 3200m staying test and finished fifth, with Shockletz sixth under Harry Coffey. Coffey rode Shockletz despite having surgery to insert a plate in his fractured collarbone just 48 hours before the race, following a scary Victoria Derby day fall. “I knew I had my best hand going into it and I just had to execute,” said Maher, who also won the 2022 Cup with Gold Trip. “I certainly didn’t know that Royal Supremacy would lead by that far, but there’s nothing better than a true staying test. “It’s been a whirlwind, really, but I’m very proud of all the team to get three horses in the first three spots.” The Maher camp was successful on the second attempt at buying Point Of Law from King Charles, who owned and bred the son of Frankel, upping their initial offer after he won the Group 3 Bahrain Trophy at Newmarket in July. It was Point Of Law’s second win in only four
16 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
Trainer Ciaron Maher reacts after Jockey Ethan Brown rode Point of Law to victory in Race 7, the Lexus Melbourne Cup on Melbourne Cup Day at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Tuesday, 3 November, 2026. (AAP Image/Martin Keep) starts, and his recent Geelong Cup triumph had him installed among the favourites for the race that stops a nation. Quizzed on the royal links, Maher said the purchase for an undisclosed sum was “a bit like (buying) any other horse” and suggested anything is now possible for the “special” four-year-old. AFL great Chris Judd was among connections revelling in Point Of Law’s win as a “proper minor
shareholder” in the stayer. “(It’s) a lot less work but it’s exhilarating,” Judd quipped when asked how the victory compared to steering West Coast to the AFL premiership in 2006. “I couldn’t track the horse so it wasn’t really until 400m or 500m to go that I was like, ‘That’s where it is.’ “At that point it did take your breath away.”
Brown’s triumph marked a remarkable fightback after he suffered life-threatening injuries and lost more than five litres of blood in a horror race fall on the same Flemington track three years ago. The Alice Springs-raised jockey was talked out of turning his hand to training by Maher, who has been one of his greatest supporters. “He’s done nothing but support me and back me in,” Brown said. “I’ve buggered up plenty of times on his horses and he’s had nothing but faith. “He’s one of many people, but he’s believed in me ... I’m quite speechless.” Early rain on Tuesday didn’t prevent more than 97,112 punters packing Flemington - the biggest crowd since 2016 - and the Cup was run in bright sunshine on a track that was rated a soft 5. Irish trainer Joseph O’Brien couldn’t add to his pair of previous Cup triumphs despite having a record five international runners in the field. Sons And Lovers (fourth) and James J Braddock (seventh) went closest for the 33-year-old, who will have another shot next year at becoming the youngest trainer to win the Cup three times. Jamie Melham was unable to defend her crown, missing the chance to become the first female jockey to win back-to-back Cups when outsider Future History finished 20th. Popular veteran Vauban was last in the 23-horse field for co-trainers Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott on his fourth attempt at Cup glory. There was early drama when Chris Waller was fined $50,000 by Racing Victoria stewards, who found the leading trainer’s runner Asterix mistakenly had a medication administered on race day. Asterix was subsequently scratched, leaving 2020 Cup-winning jockey Jye McNeil without a ride in this year’s race.
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SPORT
Green and gold for Bladen By Justin Schwarze Casey swimmer Cameron Bladen will turn from a Tigershark to a Dolphin as the emerging superstar was selected to represent Australia at the 2026 World Aquatics Swimming Championships. The Championships are being held in Beijing, China in early December. His rise to pulling on the green and gold has been overseen by his Casey Tigersharks coach, Craig Albery. Albery has worked alongside Bladen for 11 years, and he described the 25-year-old as a “late developer.” “He’s given a lot of endurance to the sport through his grit and determination,” Albery said of Bladen. “He’s had a slow rise. “He’s dug in and worked really hard. “To be gaining recognition through Swimming Australia at 25 for a boy that’s been in the water for a long time, he’s been a late developer. “There’s been nothing immediately outstanding, it’s the perseverance and getting over each hurdle. “From a coach’s perspective, he’s done everything he’s been asked to do. “He was one of the swimmers that wasn’t swimming superbly fast before COVID but dug in and reaped the benefits. “I’ve been very lucky, I’ve coached a lot of kids that have represented their countries, but this is probably the most satisfying.” Bladen qualified in the freestyle stroke after a masterful performance at the Swimming Australia Short Course Championships. He secured the World Short Course 200-metre
qualifying time, but also broke the 200-metre Victorian state record. He also snapped a number of club records in the process, but most importantly it saw him earn his place in the Dolphins’ squad for Beijing. “From a club perspective, the club is immensely proud of him,” Albery said of Bladen’s achievements. “It’s a young kid who’s kept pushing and kept going, and now he’s at the top of his sport. “He has persevered and got to the highest position.” For the Casey Tigersharks community, it’s a huge achievement to have one of their own competing at the highest level. Bladen, alongside Albery, has created a successful culture all the way through the ranks. “He’s giving back, he gives back to the younger kids,” Albery said of Bladen. “To a lot of these young kids, he’s a superstar. “But he’s a very grounded superstar. “People are over the moon for him and for the club. “For the club, it’s evidence that what we’re doing has always been correct. “It’s just testament to the support that we give to the kids. “All the best swimmers have the qualities that Cam has. “He listens and he does what we ask, he also understands the expectations. “I have pure trust in what the pair of us are trying to do. “It’s that approach and giving back that is impressive. “We’re very proud of what he’s done.”
Bladen qualified for the World Champs in freestyle stroke. (Supplied)
Cameron Bladen (right) has shared a long journey with coach Craig Albery (left) that will see him represent Australia. (Supplied)
Rising star Salek wins gold with Vic at School Champs By Justin Schwarze Emerging Berwick basketball sensation Julian Salek has capped off a fantastic month with a gold medal for Victoria at the School Sports Australia Championships in Newcastle over the weekend. Victoria took home the glory in the 12-andunder decider by a heartstopping one point, defeating Queensland 60-59. The Vics’ run was dominant at the tournament, going 6-0 in group play before comfortably downing New South Wales 71-52 in the semi-final. Salek was one of 10 players selected in the state squad to represent School Sports Victoria (SSV) after a brilliant season with the Dandenong Rangers while also impressing with Haileybury College. It follows his achievements with the Rangers, as his under-14s side won a bronze medal at the Club Championships in Perth in early October. Salek is no stranger to a challenge, as he’s been playing up an age group for most of his young career. At just 12 years old, he was a bottom-ager this season in Dandenong’s top under-14s side, displaying his skill and development amongst his peers. He also started playing representative basketball as a double bottom-ager, playing kids up to three years older than him. “I’ve learned that things don’t come around easily,” he said of what he’s taken onboard so far. “Last season, my teammates and I worked
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extremely hard and as a result, we got to the club champs. “It was an excellent result of determination and effort. “I’m proud to be in the team because I reckon if I wasn’t in that team, my confidence wouldn’t have flourished. “I wouldn’t be where I am right now.” With two interstate trips to play at a national level now under his belt, Salek has shown he belongs with the best. But at first, it didn’t immediately sink in that he was going to represent his home state. “When I first got selected, I didn’t know how big it was to play for the state,” he said. “I didn’t have much emotion at the time. “But now, I understand it’s a big effort. “It gives me a lot of pride for the area I’ve grown up in and the community I’ve had. “Also, my parents and all the support they’ve given me has pushed me to work harder and the result has been making the state team. “Our team has worked hard and pushed the limits, hoping we can come home with the gold medal. “I have no words for how proud I am. “I’ve tried my best at every opportunity and I’ve had an amazing outcome of all my hard work. “I’d also like to thank my coach Rhett that I had last season. “If he didn’t pick me for the 14.1s and he didn’t develop me, I wouldn’t be the person I am right now.”
Julian Salek won a gold medal with Victoria at the School Sports Australia Championships. (Supplied)
Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 17
SPORT
Lions on the winners’ list By Blair Burns It was another rain-affected week of cricket and unfortunately, the conditions were worse than last week with just one Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) Turf 1 match getting completed in round three. The clash between Coomoora and Narre South was also the only match in Turf 1 which even managed to get a start as another wet Saturday caused problems for local ovals. The Lions got their first win of the season as they defeated the Roos by four wickets, taking their season record to 1-2. It was always going to be an important match for Narre South and the players would’ve been glad they were able to get on and get a favourable result. The team successfully bounced back from a heavy outright defeat at the hands of Beaconsfield last week, where the Lions were bowled out for just 71 and 78. Captain Cal Tout said he hoped that the win would instill some greater belief within the group. “(We were) pretty happy to get the first win, it gives the lads a bit of confidence moving forward, especially because we have struggled to chase in the past,” he said. “It was an interesting day with the weather, we had a couple delays but I think the majority went around us which was good. “There was nothing on the radar after the tea break so we didn’t necessarily have to rush to chase the runs.” The turf deck at Strathaird Recreation Reserve held up very well, better than Tout had thought, which is why Narre South decided to send the visitors in to bat first. Coomoora opened up with Nick Suppree and Johan Cronje and it was a very positive start as Suppree scored two fours off the first over from Tout. On just Cronje’s second ball of his innings, he went bang the following over and belted Tom Arnold for a maximum to open his account. Cronje has shown that he will be one of the most attacking opening batters in the league and coming off a 96 off 34 balls in a T20 for Upwey Tecoma last Tuesday, his confidence was high. The powerful batsman scored a six off each of the next two overs and things were looking ominous for the Lions. “They got off to a flyer, the pitch was pretty good to start, considering it was under covers all night,” Tout said. “Hence the reason we chose to bowl first. I thought I’d stuffed up there after the first few overs.” Narre South needed a breakthrough and Tout was the man as he removed Cronje for 25 off 14 balls - the powerful hitter sent packing with the scoreboard at 1/41 inside the fifth over. Tout was leading from the front and quickly swung the game back in Narre’s favour as he removed Charlie Eaton (duck) and the dangerous Krishan Alang (5) soon after. “Once we took that first wicket, the bowlers really knuckled down and hit their line and lengths, minimising any more boundaries after that,” he said. Suppree (37) was strong at the top for the Roos, but he too was soon walking back to the sheds and Coomoora was in trouble with Liam Hard dismissed the following over without troubling the scorers. Once 0/41, the Roos had fallen in a massive hole and with the scoreboard reading 5/86, they needed some lower-order heroes. Cameos from Joel Robertson (16) and Buddhika Algewatta (19) helped provide some resistance for Coomoora. But it was a brilliant knock from Lance Baptist (48 off 39 balls) which got the Roos to a respectable score as they were bowled out for 166 in 30.5 overs. Tout was the pick of the bowlers with 3/24 off seven overs, while Jeevan Mendis (2/13) and Oshadha Ariyadasa (2/32) chipped in with some crucial wickets. Narre South weren’t too worried about the likelihood of more rain with the radar looking clear, but that didn’t mean they were going to slowly work the ball around in the run chase. Vineth Jayasuriya (23) and Adam Snelling (22) found the boundary three times inside the first eight balls of the innings, starting nicely. Snelling took Robertson down to score a six
18 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
DDCA
DANDENONG DISTRICT CRICKET ASSOCIATION
TURF 1 REVIEW - ROUND 3 - ONE DAY
Narre South star Jeevan Mendis had a day out, taking 2/13 and hitting 81 not out. (Stewart Chambers: 588026)
Coomoora opener Nick Suppree blasts a shot early in his innings on Saturday. (588026)
BOWLED! The bails fly as Liam Hard is knocked over by Jeevan Mendis. (588026)
and a four in the third over of the match as the scoreboard ticked over to 0/25 off three overs. The pair put on a 39-run opening partnership, before Cronje struck to leave them in a similar spot to what the Roos were at 1/39 off six overs. This brought Damith Perera to the crease. Perera didn’t need long to get his eye in, scoring two maximums and a four on his way to 17 off only 10 balls, before Alang got him. “The top order got us off to a fast start which we needed to really succeed in the chase,” Tout said. At 3/81, the Lions were in a good spot but it was their reliable superstar Mendis who decided he was going to make sure of the victory. Coomoora would’ve felt like it was right in the game if it could only get the breakthrough wicket of Mendis, but that never happened. The star all-rounder produced a remarkable innings to lead his side to victory with 81 not out off just 55 deliveries - a knock which included eight fours and five maximums. “Jeevan just took it to the next level. He really showed his experience and just took the game on,” Tout said. “He just kept finding the boundary and making it look effortless in the process.” Mendis took Cronje downtown late in the game to clear the rope with a six and score the winning runs in the process as the Lions chased the 166 target in 25.2 overs to finish on 6/170 and win by four wickets. It was a good day for Narre South as the side was able to not only get its first win, but also able to get a win when nobody else did. It was crucial for the Lions to get a bit of momentum because they will face one of the toughest challenges in the DDCA, Buckley Ridges at Park Oval. When Narre South ventured down to Park Oval last season in Round 12, the Bucks batted
first and made 427 off 80 overs, with the Lions managing 299 runs in reply. Dale Tormey (157) and Ben Wright (106) terrorised the bowlers, as did Ayush Patel (68), but all three of those players have since departed. Mendis scored 91 in that match and given he is in form with 81 not out, you can back him to go big once again. “As always, Buckley at Park oval is a tough challenge,” Tout said. “They play that ground so well, but hopefully with some of our guys starting to find form, we can really try and put the pressure on them. “It will be a good indication as to where our team really sits within the comp after a very up and down start for us.” None of the other Turf 1 one-day matches managed to get a start due to the conditions. In Turf 2, Narre Warren and North Dandenong started their match, but after just eight overs, the rain came down and put an end to the day’s action - no other matches got a start. DDCA TURF 1 SCOREBOARD Coomoora v Narre South Toss: Narre South - Bowl COOMOORA – 1ST INNINGS N. Suppree c T. Arnold b T. Abeywickrama 37 J. Cronje lbw b C. Tout 25 C. Eaton b C. Tout 0 K. Alang c&b C. Tout 5 J. Robertson st D. Perera b J. Mendis 16 L. Hard b J. Mendis 0 L. Baptist c C. Tout b O. Ariyadasa 48 B. Algewatta c A. Snelling b B. Hopkins 19 R. Pankhania b O. Ariyadasa 1 M. Klonaridis b T. Arnold 1 D. Bandulasena not out 1* Extras 7WD, 1NB, 5LB, 0B 13 Total: (30.5 Overs) 166
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Fall of Wickets: 1-40 J. Cronje, 2-53 C. Eaton, 3-65 K. Alang, 4-85 N. Suppree, 5-86 L. Hard, 6-117 J. Robertson, 7-146 B. Algewatta, 8-153 R. Pankhania, 9-158 M. Klonaridis, 10-166 L. Baptist. Narre South Bowling: C. Tout 7-1-24-3, T. Arnold 6-1-43-1, B. Hopkins 3-1-20-1, T. Abeywickrama 3-1-17-1, J. Mendis 6-1-13-2, S. Wijerathne 1-012-0, O. Ariyadasa 4.5-0-32-2. NARRE SOUTH – 1ST INNINGS V. Jayasuriya c D. Bandulasena b M. Klonaridis 23 A. Snelling c D. Bandulasena b J. Cronje 22 D. Perera c J. Robertson b K. Alang 17 Jeevan Mendis not out 81* O. Ariyadasa c C. Eaton b B. Algewatta 14 T. Arnold c N. Suppree b J. Robertson 7 Jayden Mendis c C. Eaton b J. Robertson 0 T. Abeywickrama not out 2* Extras 2WD, 1NB, 1LB, 0B 4 Total: (25.2 Overs) 6/170 Fall of Wickets: 1-39 A. Snelling, 2-58 D. Perera, 3-81 V. Jayasuriya, 4-135 O. Ariyadasa, 5-163 T. Arnold, 6-163 J. Mendis. Coomoora Bowling: J. Robertson 4-0-24-2, J. Cronje 5.2-0-44-1, K. Alang 7-0-24-1, D. Bandulasena 4-0-28-0, M. Klonaridis 2-0-20-1, B. Algewatta 3-0-30-1. Narre South won by four wickets. DDCA TURF 1 LADDER: Beaconsfield 19, Springvale South 15, Hallam Kalora Park 12, Buckley Ridges 11, Narre South 6, Dandenong West 6, Berwick 6, Coomoora 0. FIXTURE (Round 4 - Saturday, 7 November One Day): Coomoora (8) v Hallam Kalora Park (3) @ Coomoora Turf, Berwick (7) v Springvale South (2) @ Arch Brown, Buckley Ridges (4) v Narre South (5) @ Park Oval, Beaconsfield (1) v Dandenong West (6) @ Perc Allison.
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SPORT
T20 fever arrives in DDCA By Blair Burns Park your cars on the fence at your own risk because the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) T20 competitions are here for the 2026/27 season, with round one kicking off next Tuesday night. After having all 24 teams fighting it out in the one division last year, the association has decided to split the T20 competitions into the three grades which each team plays in - Turf 1, 2 and 3. Given the dominance across the top Turf 1 teams last season, this decision would be a welcome one for many sides. There will be three rounds across each division, with round one set for Tuesday before round two (Tuesday, 24 November) and round three (Tuesday, 8 December) go ahead. Last season, it was Hallam Kalora Park who won the entire competition and that was largely thanks to some dominant performances from Jawid Khan. The all-rounder was scintillating with the bat throughout the Hawks’ 2025/26 T20 campaign, clearing the rope for fun and he also picked up some crucial wickets. It was a remarkable innings which sunk Narre South in the grand final as Khan belted 95 off 51 deliveries with seven fours and seven sixes … falling narrowly short of a spectacular century. BUCKLEY RIDGES v NARRE SOUTH On Tuesday night, Buckley Ridges will host Narre South at Park Oval and you can expect the small boundaries will get a work out. The teams will be well acquainted with one another and the venue by the time Tuesday rolls around as they are set to battle it out on Saturday in a one-day match at Park Oval. While the Bucks are a different new-look side in 2026/27, the danger and star-power they possess is no less. Ishan Jayarathna will be a key to success in round one, while it will be interesting to see what the new recruits like Ray Jordan can bring to the shorter format. Last year, Buckley Ridges managed to secure the services of Sri Lankan superstar Mahela Udawatte for its T20 campaign, scoring 134 runs at 44.67. Narre South had Shobit Singh, and he scored a blistering ton off only 57 rocks last year. This year, the Lions will enjoy having Damith
DDCA
DANDENONG DISTRICT CRICKET ASSOCIATION
T20 PREVIEWS - ROUND 1
Joel Robertson belted 73 last season when Coomoora met Springvale South in a T20 match. (Stewart Chambers: 588026) mouth-watering contest at Lois Twohig Reserve, with both teams firming as premiership contenders this season. The Maroons have shown that they can go big with the bat already this year, while the Cobras are consistent and relentless. HSD has announced that two-time Buckley Ridges premiership player in Turf 1, Michael Davies, will be joining the Cobras for the T20 campaign. “Slick” has scored almost 8000 runs in his career and has raised the bat on 46 occasions with a career average of 34.29 - he is one to keep an eye on in coming weeks. DDCA T20 FIXTURE (Round 1 - Tuesday, 10 November - 5:15pm) TURF 1 Buckley Ridges v Narre South @ Park Oval, Springvale South v Coomoora @ Alex Nelson, Dandenong West v Hallam Kalora Park @ Greaves Reserve, Beaconsfield v Berwick @ Perc Allison. TURF 2 North Dandenong v HSD @ Lois Twohig, Silverton v Narre Warren @ Springvale Reserve, Parkfield v Springvale South @ Parkfield Reserve, Parkmore v Cranbourne @ Frederick Wachter. TURF 3 Lynbrook v St Mary’s @ Marriott Waters Reserve, Lyndale v Berwick @ Barry Powell Oval, Narre North v Keysborough @ Narre Warren North Reserve, Berwick Springs v Buckley Ridges @ Berwick Springs Rec Reserve.
Hallam Kalora Park’s Jawid Khan will once again be a prized wicket when the T20 competition begins next Tuesday. (Rob Carew: 537216) Perera on their side rather than figuring out the best way to restrict the left-hander. SPRINGVALE SOUTH v COOMOORA Springvale South will be favourites as they head into their clash against Coomoora in a rematch of round two last season. In that T20, it was the Roos who got the chocolates thanks to Krishan Alang (69 not out) and Joel Robertson (73), so the Bloods will need to respond. Jordy Wyatt opened the batting last year and will be expected to do so again … the more balls he can face in a T20, the better likely outcome for Springy. DANDENONG WEST v HALLAM KALORA PARK The task doesn’t get much tougher for the Bulls than facing the reigning premier in the T20 competition. Dandenong West won two of two games last season and fell short in the finals against the Bucks, so they will come into this tournament with some confidence. We are used to seeing Shaun Weir do his
damage with the bat in hand, but last year, he took eight wickets at an average of 6.13 in the T20 matches, including a couple of three-wicket hauls. While he has had a lean start to the season with the willow, a big knock may be what he needs to get him going. Austin Fardell and Imran Laghmani will be important for the Hawks in this clash. BEACONSFIELD v BERWICK At the moment, this is almost top of the ladder in Turf 1 vs bottom of the ladder in Turf 1 … and don’t get it twisted, Beaconsfield is on top. The Bears have had a tough fixture to start the season and have also been a bit unlucky, but the Tigers are roaring and with Tyler Clark in form, they look ominous. However, Berwick didn’t win the flag last season by accident and the likes of Jake Hancock and Michael Wallace will be hard to dismiss. If the Bears can start well through Lachlan Brown and Jarryd Wills, will any team be able to slow them down? In Turf 2, North Dandenong and HSD will be a
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Dhindsa five-fa delivers Lynbrook clutch victory in Turf 3 By Blair Burns Conditions over the weekend were far from ideal for cricket and most cricketers probably spent Saturday either at the pub or owing quality time to their significant others. But Lynbrook didn’t … the Lakers were too busy winning in DDCA Turf 3 as they edged out Lyndale in a thriller, winning by just four runs in round three. They say a week is a long time in cricket ... last week, the Lakers lost narrowly against St Mary’s by five runs; and this week, they were on the other side of the result. It was the only Turf 3 match to get a result on Saturday and it did not disappoint as Lynbrook moved into second position on the ladder. The Dales actually won the toss at Marriott Waters Reserve and chose to bowl first, a decision that appeared to have paid off as Jacob Stephens took some early wickets. Stephens removed both openers Satnam Singh (duck) and Adithya Naron (14), before also sending back Lynbrook’s number three Hukmam Karir for just five to leave the Lakers reeling at 3/33. But some handy cameos down the order from Ramneet Singh Dhindsa (21), Sithara Perera (18), Trevin Hewawasam (25) and Puyush Banotra (16) got the Lakers to 125 after 38.2 overs. Stephens did the damage early with the new ball to finish with figures of 3/28, but it was Lithan Dulshan (4/8 off six overs) who produced a remarkable spell late in the piece. At 0/32, hope was slowly fading for Lynbrook as Lyndale opening batter Faraz Rahman (33) got into his work nicely.
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DDCA
DANDENONG DISTRICT CRICKET ASSOCIATION
TURF 3 REVIEW - ROUND 3 - ONE DAY
Dhindsa had bowled his eight overs and taken 5/22, while Adnan Rasheed was also superb, finishing with 3/15 off eight overs. The Dales fell to 8/80 and Jacob Stephens was their last chance, as he belted the ball around and made the home side a bit nervous. But when Perera got him out LBW for 31, it was all but over at 9/102, but some credit has to go to the Dales, they never gave in. Number 11 batter Harry Singh made 12 before he was dismissed by Amarjot Singh with Lyndale just five runs short of victory - all out for 121 with Matthew Senior (4 not out) stranded at the crease. The match between Berwick Springs and St Mary’s got a start, but with the Saints cruising at 3/113 off 28 overs, the conditions worsened and the game was called a draw. James Brenton (29), Junaid Kari (20) and Ashan Anthony (30 not out) all contributed at the top of the order for St Mary’s. The matches between Buckley Ridges and Narre North, as well as Berwick and Keysborough were called off before getting a start. DDCA ROUND 4 FIXTURES (Saturday, 7 November - One Day) TURF 2 Cranbourne v Narre Warren @ Casey Fields 2, Springvale South v HSD @ Alex Nelson Res, North Dandenong v Parkmore @ Lois Twohig 1, Silverton v Parkfield @ Springvale Res. TURF 3 St Mary’s v Buckley Ridges @ Thomas Carroll Res, Keysborough v Lynbrook @ Rowley Allan, Lyndale v Berwick @ Barry Powell 1, Narre North v Berwick Springs @ Narre Warren North Res.
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Ramneet Singh Dhindsa, pictured playing for Clyde last season, has started well with Lynbrook, scoring 119 runs and taking 10 wickets across the first three games in Turf 3. (Stewart Chambers: 540529) Well, that is before Dhindsa took control of the entire match as he began to pick up wickets and trouble the Dales’ batters. Dhindsa came into this match as one of leading run-scorers in the competition and one of
the leading wicket-takers, and he kept that going. He removed Lyndale’s entire top-four and put the visitors on the back foot … they had been 0/32 and now they were 6/61.
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 19
Thursday the 26th November 2026, 11am to 3pm
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20 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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