Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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Glass bin agendas
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SPORT
Spooky spirits Rain failed to dampen the Halloween spirit in Lynbrook as families gathered for the Lynbrook Residents Association’s celebration. Despite a slow start due to wet weather, crowds grew for the popular bestdressed competitions, featuring creative costumes from children, adults and families. Activities included a guess-the-monster competition, colouring and sweet treats, with positive community feedback following the festivities. Full pictures on page 18
Sisters Gabby and Liesel were magnificent. (Rob Carew: 587203)
Insecurity debate With Casey recording Victoria’s highest number of employed people seeking homelessness assistance, Cranbourne and Bass candidates have outlined competing approaches to tackling housing insecurity ahead of the November State Election. A new Council to Homeless Persons report revealed 698 employed Casey residents sought homelessness support in 2024-25, an 18 per cent increase from 2020-21.
Almost 80 per cent were women. Labor candidates Pauline Richards and Christopher Buckingham highlighted existing investments in social housing, crisis accommodation and homelessness prevention, emphasising family violence as a major contributor. Liberal candidates Gino Tripodi and Rochelle Halstead proposed abolishing stamp duty for eligible first-home buyers purchasing properties up
to $1 million, reducing land tax and accelerating housing construction. One Nation’s Bass candidate Nikole Schellekens supported increasing affordable housing supply but questioned committing to a target of 80,000 additional public and community homes without further cost assessments. Family First’s Shane Foreman called for more affordable housing, rental assistance and im-
proved infrastructure, including the Clyde rail extension. Victorian Socialists candidates Reem Yunis and Chris Jobe backed a five-year rent freeze, expanded public housing and stronger renter protections. To read the full responses from the Cranbourne and Bass candidates, pages 16-17
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NEWS
Debating purple bins By Violet Li Candidates contesting the Cranbourne electorate have weighed in on Victoria’s controversial purple-lidded glass recycling bins, as the City of Casey begins collecting the new bins across the municipality in November. Star News surveyed candidates on whether they support the State Government’s mandatory four-bin waste system, its cost-effectiveness, and whether councils should have more flexibility in managing glass recycling. The survey comes as Casey households begin using the new 80-litre purple bins, with collections starting on Monday 2 November. More than 100,000 bins had been delivered across Casey by late October, representing more than 80 per cent of the rollout, with the remaining deliveries expected to be completed by mid-November. The bins, collected every four weeks, are designed for glass bottles and jars that previously went into yellow-lidded recycling bins. The rollout forms part of the Victorian Government’s requirement for all councils to introduce a standardised four-bin waste and recycling system by July 2027, aimed at improving recycling and reducing contamination. Casey Council previously advocated against these kerbside reforms, but it formally endorsed its implementation in December 2023 after the reform was legislated. The Council has entered contracts for bin manufacturing and delivery, and it stated that these contracts cannot be paused or cancelled without exposing Council to financial claims and additional costs. Delaying also increases the risk of non-compliance with State legislation and potential enforcement action. The survey responses are below. Greens candidate Annalise Mercer, One Nation candidate Andrew Hirst, and Family First candidate Shane Foreman didn’t get back to the paper before deadline.
Pauline Richards, Labor candidate for Cranbourne: “Labor will continue to listen to councils and work with them on practical changes to improve bin and recycling services for their communities. Jess Wilson has already promised $40 billion in cuts, now they want to force all councils to provide weekly rubbish collection without a plan to pay for it - that means cuts to council services like libraries and maternity services that our community relies on.” The Labor has also advised that the Government is still working with councils to finalise rules for household waste and recycling services, including when any changes will start. Council feedback is being considered, including making sure councils have enough time to prepare for any changes.
Gino Tripodi, Liberal candidate for Cranbourne 1. Do you support the requirement for councils such as Casey to provide a separate purple-lid glass recycling service? Why or why not? The Coalition does not support Labor’s deci-
Gino Tripodi, Liberal candidate for Cranbourne, Pauline Richards, Labor candidate for Cranbourne, and Reem Yunis, Victorian Socialists candidate for Cranbourne weighed in on Victoria’s controversial purple-lidded glass recycling bins. sion to force every council to introduce a separate purple-lidded glass bin, adding collection and infrastructure costs that will ultimately be borne by ratepayers. An elected Jess Wilson-Liberal and Nationals Government will scrap the mandatory fourthbin requirement and give councils greater freedom to determine how waste and recycling services are delivered locally. 2. Should councils have greater flexibility to decide how glass is collected, rather than being required to provide a separate glass bin? Some communities may benefit from dedicated kerbside glass collection, while others could achieve comparable or better outcomes through alternative recycling arrangements, expanded container deposit facilities or shared collection infrastructure. A Liberal and Nationals Government will allow councils to determine the most suitable glass collection arrangements for their residents. 3. Do you believe the purple-bin system provides good value for Casey households, particularly given the existing Container Deposit Scheme? We are concerned that Labor has not demonstrated that a mandatory fourth bin is the most cost-effective way to improve glass recycling across every Victorian community. 4. Would you support expanding the Container Deposit Scheme to cover more glass products and potentially reduce reliance on separate kerbside glass collection? A Liberal and Nationals Government will review the Container Deposit Scheme to identify opportunities to expand its reach and recover more recyclable material. We should be looking at practical solutions
that improve recycling rates and reduce contamination, while avoiding additional costs for households and councils. 5. If elected, would you seek any changes to Victoria’s four-bin waste and recycling system? If so, what changes? Our commitment is to scrap Labor’s mandatory fourth-bin requirement, allowing councils to determine whether separate glass collection is appropriate for their communities. We will review Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme, including opportunities to expand the range of eligible containers and recover more recyclable material. We have also committed to restoring weekly general rubbish collection across Victoria, recognising that households should not have to wait a fortnight for their general waste to be collected. This will be accompanied by a review of the operation of the landfill levy.
Reem Yunis, Victorian Socialist candidate for Cranbourne 1. Do you support the requirement for councils to provide a separate purple-lid glass service? I support the goal of recycling more glass and keeping it out of landfill. I don’t support making Casey families pay for it through their rates. If the State Government requires councils to deliver a service, it should fund it properly. 2. Should councils have greater flexibility to decide how glass is collected? Yes. A single model doesn’t suit every area, and Casey has plenty of households where space is tight or glass use is low. Councils and residents should be able to choose workable alternatives,
such as shared bins, drop-off points or the Container Deposit Scheme, as long as the glass is actually recovered and recycled. Flexibility must not become a way to abandon recycling or push the cost onto residents. 3. Does the purple-bin system provide good value for Casey households, given the CDS? That depends on who pays. Casey froze the standard waste charge for 2026/27 using savings from its waste reserve, which is welcome, but that is a one-year measure and residents have said they lack clarity about the longer-term cost. Households already return many drink containers through the CDS, so the extra bin will be used less in some homes than others. 4. Would you support expanding the CDS to cover more glass products? Yes. Wine and spirit bottles are still not eligible under Victoria’s scheme. Putting a refund on them would recover more glass, give people money back, and could reduce how much has to be handled kerbside. The producers who make and sell the bottles should carry the cost, not ratepayers. 5. Would you seek any changes to the four-bin system? Yes. I would push for: ■ the State Government to fully fund the setup and running costs, so there’s no increase in household waste charges ■ expanded CDS covering wine and spirit bottles ■ options for apartments and households that can’t fit a fourth bin ■ of the business case and a review of how the system performs, with changes where it isn’t working ■ and waste services to be publicly run and accountable, not driven by private profit
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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
“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.
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.
Second shutdown of Panda Mart stores Panda Mart has been ordered to shut its Cranbourne and Preston outlets for a second time after the Supreme Court of Victoria ruled the discount retailer must address ongoing product safety failures. Each store must stop trading for 3 business days while Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) conducts comprehensive audits of both outlets to ensure products comply with Australia’s product safety laws and regulations. Panda Mart was also ordered to notify customers of the shutdown through its website, social media and shop fronts. The retailer must also establish and implement a compliance program including staff training, product tracking, auditing and testing processes. Panda Mart has also been ordered to report to CAV every 6 months for the next 3 years, to demonstrate the program is being effectively maintained. CAV has taken sustained enforcement action against Panda Mart over the past 2 years in response to repeated product safety concerns. These include the sale of non-compliant toys containing button batteries that pose a serious risk to children, as well as other products that failed to meet mandatory warning and labelling requirements. CAV Director Nicole Rich said the regulator remains focused on protecting consumers. “While it is positive that Panda Mart is taking corrective steps, it is disappointing that it has taken this long, given the potential risk to consumers and CAV’s earlier interventions,” she said. “We want Victorians to have confidence they can shop for affordable items safely. Retailers must act promptly when product safety concerns are identified. We’ll continue to pursue those that don’t. “As this outcome demonstrates, businesses who put the public at risk selling dangerous items face not just the prospect of legal action, but considerable financial and reputational cost.” Panda Mart will close its Cranbourne store from 9 to 11 November and its Preston store from 16 to 18 November. Panda Mart Cranbourne is also facing criminal charges in the County Court, scheduled to be heard in April 2027.
Architectural render of the view from the south east for the proposed Clyde North data centres. (Galileo Group)
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 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 issues 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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NEWS
Candidates talk on 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 seat of Cranbourne, Berwick, and Narre Warren South.
LABOR - STEFAN KOOMEN, NARRE WARREN SOUTH 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.
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.
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. 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 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
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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 adequately reflected population growth in Mel-
bourne’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 south-east 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 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 south-east first. Family First. Putting families back in front.
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NEWS
Upper House battle begins By Cam Lucadou-Wells 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 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 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
Dr Zareh Ghazarian, a political scientist and senior lecturer at Monash University. ernment 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.
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 gov-
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 5
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 lead-up. 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
County Court of Victoria. priors. The violence was not premeditated, but a “spontaneous response to the situation you 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.
Rosie Batty. (Supplied)
Rosie Batty to speak at Bunjil Place Domestic violence campaigner Rosie Batty AO will be speaking on her experience of family and domestic violence as part of Casey’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence initiative. Since losing her 11-year-old son in 2014 to family violence, Batty has used her experience with gendered violence to protect other women, transforming her loss into meaningful advocacy that further helps women and children currently facing obstacles to their safety. Casey Mayor, Michelle Crowther said the special event would be an opportunity to “learn, reflect and discuss” how we can all support those affected by family violence.
The 16-day initiative will also include a walk and vigil aimed at standing in solidarity with victims of family and gender-based violence. Crowther said by walking together as a community, attendees are able to display their “commitment to building a safer, more respectful and inclusive Casey for everyone”. The 16 Days of Activism campaign will begin on 25 November and ends on Sunday 6 December. Batty will be speaking at Bunjil Place on Tuesday 1 December from 7pm to 8:30pm. For more information go to, casey.vic.gov. au/news/conversation-rosie-batty-ao-casey-says-no-violence
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NEWS
Man found guilty of pier murder
Free dental clinic pledged
By Tara Cosoleto, AAP A homeless man arrested in blood-splattered pants has been found guilty of stabbing an unsuspecting Cranbourne North fisherman to death. Forest Stevenson, 38, denied he was the one who attacked Andres Pancha, 45, at Frankston Pier in June 2024. But a Victorian Supreme Court jury on Thursday found him guilty of murder after close to three days of deliberations. Jurors found Stevenson attacked Mr Pancha on the pier after approaching him about 6am on June 29. Using a knife, Stevenson stabbed the older man 101 times, including 31 blows to the head and neck, and 40 to the torso. Another fisherman who was about 100 metres away called triple zero while Stevenson fled the scene on foot. Paramedics arrived at 6.12am to find Mr Pancha lying in a pool of blood with no pulse. Police immediately reviewed CCTV footage and identified the attacker as a man in a green jacket. About 80 minutes after the fatal stabbing, Stevenson was found lying in a shrub, dressed in a green jacket with blood-stained black pants. Mr Pancha was a likely contributor of the DNA found on Stevenson’s pants, crown prosecutor Kristie Churchill KC told jurors She also said the CCTV of the man leaving the scene matched footage of Stevenson in the Frankston area before the attack. But defence barrister Amy Brennan told
Supreme Court of Victoria. jurors the man in the footage was not her client and the pants he was arrested in were not his. Jurors began their deliberations on Tuesday morning and returned their guilty verdict on Thursday afternoon. Mr Pancha’s family broke down into sobs
and hugged each other after the verdict was handed down. They declined to speak to media after the verdict. Stevenson will face a pre-sentence hearing at a later date.
A free dental clinic would be established in the City of Casey under a re-elected Labor Government. Labor has pledged to expand its proposed network of free dental clinics from 10 to 20 across Victoria, including one in Casey. The clinics would be open to people of all ages, with no appointment required and no bill. Services would include check-ups, fillings, root canals and extractions, with urgent cases such as dental pain, swelling and injuries prioritised. The Casey clinic would be one of 14 planned for metropolitan Melbourne, alongside clinics in neighbouring Cardinia and Dandenong. Labor stated that the selected areas either had longer public dental waiting times or currently lacked public dental chairs. The clinics are scheduled to open from July 2027 as part of a $230 million commitment. Premier Ben Carroll said no Victorian should have to live in pain because they could not afford dental treatment. Labor said the 20 clinics would collectively treat more than 200,000 Victorians each year. Labor has also pledged $5 million for dentist recruitment incentives, including $20,000 sign-on bonuses for dentists joining the metropolitan public system.
Take the first step to great retirement living Botanic Gardens is a close-knit community set on landscaped native gardens and neighbours the Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne. Residents enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle and an active social calendar catering to all interests. Choose from spacious villas with 24/7 emergency call systems and enjoy the flexibility to pay for additional services as you need. Choice in how you pay
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 7
NEWS
Bookkeeper is jailed A bookkeeper who fleeced nearly $7 million from three South East businesses has been jailed. Julie Marie Manning, 59, formerly of Cranbourne East and Carrum Downs, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to multiple counts of theft and obtaining financial advantage by deception. In sentencing on 29 October, Judge Gabriele Cannon noted Manning’s “lifestyle” spending had included three home mortgages as well as nine Harley Davidson motorbikes worth about $225,000. She also spent up on an expensive resort holiday, a cocaine habit and pokies gambling. It flew in the face of Manning’s claims that she was motivated by trying to help family and friends, the judge noted. “My problem is I want to help everyone but it’s not helping me,” Manning had told police. She didn’t present evidence to back up her claim that she helped a friend with a child ill from cancer. “The fact is the money was not yours to give,” Judge Cannon told Manning. Manning’s ill-gotten gains amounted to $6,675,460.85. It was “breathtaking” brazenness that defied belief, including swindling a third victim while on bail over her two earlier frauds, Judge Cannon noted. Judge Cannon said a register was required to ban Manning and similar offenders from unsupervised roles managing money, in order to protect future employers. Manning stole more than $4.5 million over 627 fraudulent transactions from her employer, a Dandenong South company Minus 1 Refrigerated Transport Pty Ltd, to her own bank accounts. In 2016, the owner expressed concern about the company’s unprofitability. Manning responded that Minus 1 should improve its debtor collections. The thefts spanned 16 years before she was found out and dismissed in 2017. Months later, she gained a job at Carrum
The County Court of Victoria. (AAP Image/Con Chronis) Downs business Ventair Pty Ltd, where she swindled $1.89 million over 69 transactions and five years. She redirected Ventair’s money that was intended to pay a client into her bank account. She then paid a portion of the funds to the client, and used the rest for personal items, family and friends, and the nine motorbikes. While on bail for those frauds, Manning defrauded her third victim – a Dingley Village employer Dale Air Pty Ltd - of more than $285,000 between 2025-’26. She doctored Dale Air invoices, so its custom-
ers directly paid into her own bank account. She attempted to conceal the shortfall by altering the amounts ‘paid’ in Dale Air’s MYOB records. In a victim impact statement, a family member at Minus 1 reported that the betrayal turned her life upside down as they tried to repair the finances. That Manning was embedded in the business’s finances made the discovery all the more “mortifying” and “shattering”. Minus 1 was repaid about $400,000 after civil action against Manning.
Dale Air owners told of the “devastating” financial impact, though lucky enough survive the immense loss. Manning has been diagnosed with a major depressive disorder, and cocaine dependence. Judge Cannon accepted Manning was “somewhat remorseful” but more for her own predicament than for her impact on victims. Genuine remorse was a “work in progress”. Manning was jailed for up to nine years, and eligible for parole after five-and-a-half years. Her term includes 220 days in pre-sentence detention.
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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. 12897227-MS45-26
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SUM9788_FP
Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 9
NEWS
Italian fun returns in style Tooradin Primary School celebrated its biennial Italian Day on Wednesday 28 October with a colourful program of food, culture and activities. Students took part in activity rotations from 9.30am to 1pm, including pasta-themed crafts, badge making and other Italian-inspired activities. The celebrations continued over lunch, with students enjoying pasta, gelato and traditional Italian donuts, known as sfingis. Many students also dressed in Italian colours or as Italian-inspired characters for the occasion. The day also saw a special performance by Italian-themed magician Luigi Zucchini. Rear Maddi and Ms Szalek (Principal). L-R Front Axel, Brookes, Wil and Toby. They are Mario and Luigi who are plumbers fixing the taps.
Harlow and Ayden. (Gary Sissons: 586760)
Leni with an Italian Flag tied on and the Tooradin FC top that is the Italian colours.
Lara and Chlo.
Isla as a wind-up ballerina in a box from Sorrento Italy.
Theo, Harvey and Harper.
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
Sandown set for huge Greyhound Melbourne Cup
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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
10 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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.
Melbourne Cup 2025 - Canya Mayhem.
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HAMPTON PARK SC CLASS OF 2026
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 11
202610078319_1-AM41-26
REMEMBRANCE DAY Lest we forget
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)
11th November
REMEMBRANCE – DAY –
Remembrance Day 2025 in Pearcedale.
CRANBOURNE CENOTAPH High Street Cranbourne
SERVICE COMMENCES 11AM
DONATE TO OUR POPPY APPEAL: Sponsored by
44-50 Clow St, Dandenong VIC 03 9792 1535 dandenongrsl.com.au
Remembrance Day 2025 in Pearcedale. 12914004-JO45-26
12 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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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-
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 13
NEWS
Labor candidate for Bass Christopher Buckingham (middle) and Bass sitting MP Jordan Crugnale (right) at Devon Meadows Primary School. (Supplied)
Labor pledges $6.68m If re-elected, Labor will invest $7.94M into the primary school. (Supplied)
$8m investment if elected for school students and staff. Backing the major upgrade, Labor’s Narre Warren South candidate, Stefan Koomen said that the upgrades will help provide better support for students and teachers. “Labor is backing our local schools and giving kids the best possible start,” he said. In a promotional video posted on Koomen’s
social media, a Kilberry employee on the school council said the school is marked as a top performing school, despite its outdated facilities. The upgrades, the employee said, would help to expand the current Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) rooms and environment which would further improve the student’s learning capabilities.
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Labor has announced another election pledge to invest nearly $8 million in upgrades at a public Hampton Park primary school. If re-elected, Kilberry Valley Primary School will receive $7.94 million to upgrade the school’s STEM program. This will deliver a fully fitted out science and technology lab, alongside IT upgrades to support
A re-elected Labor Government will invest $6.68 million to upgrade Devon Meadows Primary School, including improvements to Block A. The election commitment was announced on Friday 30 October as Labor campaigns to retain government ahead of the November Victorian State Election. Labor stated that the funding would deliver more modern and fit-for-purpose facilities for students and staff at the school. Minister for Education Gabrielle Williams said local schools played an important role in giving students a strong start. “Labor knows every great education starts with a great local school,” she said. Labor candidate for Bass Christopher Buckingham said the upgrade would benefit Devon Meadows families. “Devon Meadows families deserve a local school with modern facilities that support students to learn, grow and reach their full potential,” he said.
14 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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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 under-
cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au
standing 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 Speargrass 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, tides, nursery schedules and planting crews
Saltmarsh on the land. 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.”
Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 15
NEWS
Cranbourne and Bass By Violet Li With the Victorian election approaching, Star News asked Cranbourne and Bass candidates what they would do to tackle housing insecurity and support working residents struggling to keep a roof over their heads. Casey has recorded the highest number of working people seeking homelessness support in Victoria, as housing affordability and cost-of-living pressures continue to squeeze local residents. A new report by the Council to Homeless Persons, Employed & At Risk 2026, revealed that 698 employed Casey residents received homelessness assistance in 2024-25, up 18 per cent from 590 in 2020-21. Of those seeking support, 556 were women, accounting for almost 80 per cent of the total. The report found that 4236 Casey residents accessed homelessness services in 2024-25, with working people making up 16.48 per cent of all clients. Across Victoria, the number of employed people receiving homelessness support has risen by 42 per cent over four years, with about one-third of those employed working full-time. The report also highlighted growing pressure in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, where working homelessness increased by 58.39 per cent across seven growth-corridor municipalities, including Casey. The full responses from Cranbourne and Bass candidates can be viewed at https://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au One Nation Cranbourne candidate Andrew Hirst, and Greens candidate for Cranbourne and Bass Annalise Mercer and Sophie Thorn didn’t get back to the paper before the deadline.
Nikole Schellekens, One Nation candidate for Bass
2. What would you do to improve housing affordability for working people in Cranbourne, Clyde, Clyde North and the wider Casey area? One Nation has several practical policies aimed at increasing housing supply and reducing the costs passed on to homeowners and renters. We want to reduce unnecessary planning and building delays, review government charges that add to construction costs, release suitable underutilised government land and encourage more investment in affordable housing. We also support winding back land-tax increases and making it easier for homeowners to rent out spare rooms or granny flats without unnecessary additional taxes and red tape. These measures are intended to encourage more housing options, increase rental availability and reduce the costs associated with providing accommodation. One Nation also proposes increasing foreign purchaser duty on residential property. But we cannot look at housing in isolation. Families in our growing communities also need accessible public transport, functioning roads, schools, healthcare and local employment opportunities. Housing affordability isn’t just about the rent or mortgage. It’s about what it costs a family to live, work and raise children in their community. 3. If elected, what specific commitment would you make to reduce working homelessness and housing stress in Casey over the next four
years? My commitment is to make housing affordability and access to essential services a priority for the growing communities in the northern part of Bass. I would work directly with Casey Council, local homelessness services, community housing providers, developers and residents to identify practical opportunities to increase affordable housing and prevent people losing their homes. That includes investigating suitable underutilised government land, identifying unnecessary planning barriers and advocating for infrastructure investment that properly supports residential growth. I would also want to examine how existing homelessness prevention programs are performing locally and whether support is reaching working families before they reach crisis point. Importantly, I want measurable outcomes. We need to know whether housing availability is improving, whether families are experiencing less housing stress and whether fewer working people are needing homelessness assistance. I believe government needs to get back to the basics, and providing the conditions for people to access safe, affordable housing is fundamental to that.
Christopher Buckingham, Labor Candidate for Bass Labor recognises that homelessness is a significant issue in our community and much of it is driven by family violence. Labor is delivering a comprehensive plan to tackle homelessness - from outreach, crisis ac-
commodation, supportive housing and social homes. Labor has invested heavily in building new social housing, developing new supportive housing models, and expanding prevention and early intervention programs to better support people doing it tough. As the former CEO of Casey Cardinia Libraries I am familiar with the lived experience of many homeless people in the region. We provided support and services to hundreds of people who were struggling with homelessness. I participated in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout for many years to help raise funds for frontline services and increase awareness of the systemic causes underpinning homelessness in our community.
Pauline Richards, Labor candidate for Cranbourne: I identified the scourge of Family Violence as a priority in my first speech in Parliament so I’m particularly proud to have delivered an Orange Door on High Street in Cranbourne. Labor recognises that homelessness is a significant issue in our community and much of it is driven by family violence. Labor is delivering a comprehensive plan to tackle homelessness - from outreach, crisis accommodation, supportive housing and social homes. Labor has invested heavily in building new social housing, developing new supportive housing models, and expanding prevention and early intervention programs to better support people doing it tough.
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1. Do you support the target of 80,000 additional public and community housing homes over the next decade? I support increasing the availability of affordable housing, including public and community housing for people who cannot access the private rental market. However, I would not commit to a specific target of 80,000 homes without understanding the cost, available land, construction capacity and infrastructure required to deliver them. Victoria’s financial position demands responsible planning and spending. One Nation’s housing policy takes a broader approach to increasing supply. This includes releasing suitable underutilised government land, reducing planning delays, encouraging private and community-sector investment in low-cost housing and removing unnecessary barriers to additional housing options. I also believe we should be examining opportunities to make better use of existing housing, rather than relying entirely on new large-scale developments. Announcing a target is one thing. Actually delivering affordable homes, with the services and infrastructure communities need, is another and One Nation is committed to doing both, in a fiscally responsible manner.
Bass Liberal candidate Rochelle Halstead, Labor candidate Christopher Buckingham, One Nation candidate Nikole Schellekens, and Victorian Socialists candidate Chris Jobe responded to Star News’ election survey on the homelessness issue in the City of Casey.
16 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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NEWS
parties on homelessness A joint response from Rochelle Halstead, Liberal candidate for Bass, and Gino Tripodi, Liberal candidate for Cranbourne:
Cranbourne Liberal candidate Gino Tripodi, Labor candidate Pauline Richards, Victorian Socialists candidate Reem Yunis, and Family First candidate Shane Foreman responded to Star News’ election survey on the homelessness issue in the City of Casey. homes built in our growing communities, ensure infrastructure funding is spent locally and support efforts to bring vacant public housing back into use. Our plan will lower property taxes, cut unnecessary red tape, make it easier to build homes and ease the cost pressures facing families. After 12 years of Labor, we cannot fix Victoria’s housing crisis overnight. But we can start making the right decisions now. That means building more homes, lowering costs and ensuring people who need help can access it before they reach crisis point. Casey families deserve a government that helps them get ahead, not one that keeps making life more expensive.
Shane Foreman, Family First candidate for Cranbourne: 1. Do you support the target of 80,000 additional public and community housing homes over the next decade? Family First supports increasing the supply of social and community housing, particularly in highgrowth areas such as Casey. However, any major building program must be carefully planned, transparent and value for money for taxpayers. The priority should be delivering homes where they are needed, ensuring they are well maintained, and supporting residents to move toward independence where possible. Victoria should not repeat the mistakes of poorly managed, wasteful infrastructure projects. 2. What would you do to improve housing affordability for working people in Casey? Family First would take practical steps to reduce the pressures driving housing stress, including:
Increasing the supply of affordable housing in growth areas such as Cranbourne, Clyde and Clyde North. Cutting unnecessary planning delays and red tape so homes can be built sooner. Ensuring new developments are accompanied by transport, schools, health services and local jobs. Supporting policies that reduce cost-of-living pressures on working families, including reliable and affordable energy. Targeting rental assistance to families at risk of losing their homes. Working people should not have to choose between paying rent and meeting their family’s basic needs. 3. What specific commitment would you make to reduce working homelessness and housing stress in Casey over the next four years? Family First would commit to advocating for a dedicated housing and homelessness response for Casey that reflects its rapid growth. This would include prioritising the Clyde rail extension and other transport infrastructure, supporting more affordable housing supply, and ensuring rental crisis assistance is available to local families before they reach the point of homelessness. We would also push for greater transparency and accountability in how housing funds are spent, so that money reaches the families and communities who need it—not bureaucracy or poorly managed projects. Family First believes every person deserves dignity, security and the opportunity to build a stable life. Supporting families before they fall into crisis is not only compassionate—it is the right foundation for a stronger Casey and a stron-
ger Victoria.
A joint response from Reem Yunis, Victorian Socialists Candidate for Cranbourne, and Chris Jobe, Victorian Socialists Candidate for Bass: 1. Do you support 80,000 additional public and community homes over the next decade? Yes, as a minimum. Victoria has far too little public housing for the size of the waiting list. I want those homes to be genuine public housing, publicly owned and rented at a fair share of income, rather than a mix that leaves many working families priced out. Victorian Socialists would fund the build by taxing big property developers and corporations. 2. What would you do for working people struggling with rent here? Freeze rents for five years, then cap increases at the lower of CPI or wage growth. Require developers to set aside a share of new housing for public housing, which matters most in growth areas like Clyde and Clyde North. Stop no-grounds evictions and unreasonable rent rises. Expand public transport so that living further out doesn’t mean hidden costs. 3. What is your specific commitment for the next four years? I commit to fighting for a rent freeze and cap, a major public housing program with Casey getting its fair share, and the funding to keep people in their homes. I’ll report back to the community each year on what has been delivered. Victorian Socialists also don’t allow landlords to stand as candidates.
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1. Do you support the target of 80,000 additional public and community housing homes over the next decade? After 12 years of Labor, Victorians have heard plenty of big housing promises while the shortage of affordable homes has continued to grow. A Jess Wilson-led Liberal and Nationals Government will conduct a comprehensive review of public housing, including an audit of vacant properties, to identify homes that can be economically repaired and returned to use as quickly as possible. We will also review Labor’s costly plans to demolish Victoria’s 44 public housing towers. At the same time, our Victorian Homelessness Strategy will provide a coordinated approach to preventing homelessness and supporting vulnerable people into secure accommodation. 2. What would you do to improve housing affordability for working people in Cranbourne, Clyde, Clyde North and wider Casey? Our plan is straightforward: lower costs, build more homes and give working families a better chance of getting ahead. For too many families in Casey, the dream of owning a home is slipping further out of reach, while renters are spending more and more of their income just keeping a roof over their heads. A Jess Wilson-led Liberal and Nationals Government will tackle this in several ways. First, we will abolish stamp duty for eligible first-home buyers purchasing properties valued up to $1 million, helping more young families get into their first home. Second, we will progressively reduce land tax by restoring the tax-free threshold to $300,000, helping reduce costs and encourage investment in rental housing. Third, we will fast-track the release of land and the construction of new homes in growth areas like Clyde and Clyde North. We will remove unnecessary delays in planning approvals and reform the cultural heritage approvals process while maintaining strong protections for Aboriginal cultural heritage. And we will ease pressure on household budgets by scrapping Labor’s Emergency Services Tax and introducing a $50 weekly road toll cap. More housing supply, lower taxes and lower everyday costs are all part of our plan to make housing more affordable. 3. What specific commitment would you make to reduce working homelessness and housing stress in Casey over the next four years? My commitment is to fight for a fair go for working families in Casey and make housing affordability a priority throughout my first term. No one who works hard and contributes to our community should face the prospect of homelessness simply because they cannot keep up with rising costs. As part of a Jess Wilson-led Liberal and Nationals Government, I will fight to get more
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 17
NEWS
Paddy Platypus, the mascot, is joined by Casey Mayor Michelle Crowther and SES members from left, Julie, Joshua, Morgan and Ben. (ROB CAREW: 583392)
A night of frights By Violet Li
Sisters Gabby and Liesel. (Rob Carew: 587203)
Judith as The Mad Hatter.
Cousins Ruby and Coral.
Ivy captured the moment.
Halloween time Halloween costumes, spooky competitions and sweet treats brought the Lynbrook community together for another year, with even the rain unable to spoil the festivities. Families turned out in colourful costumes for the Lynbrook Residents Association’s (LRA) Halloween’s celebration on the night of Saturday 31 October at Lynbrook Community Centre. LRA event manager Vanessa Watson said the 2026 event was a great success despite wet weather affecting attendance early on. “Rain did try to dampen our moods but with a wet weather venue as our backup plan we soldiered on,” she said. Crowds soon picked up, particularly during the best-dressed competitions for children, adults and families. The event also featured a guess-the-monster competition, colouring activities and plenty of sweet treats for children. Ms Watson said the standard of costumes was exceptionally high this year, making judging particularly difficult for community member Damien Rosario, who returned for his 13th year as judge. She thanked local businesses for donating prizes and praised LRA volunteers for their hard work before, during and after the event.
18 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
Nearly 1000 people packed into the VICSES Cranbourne Unit’s first Halloween night. Deputy Controller – Members Julie Lunt said the unit had expected only a few hundred people, but the turnout for the two-hour event was “fantastic”. Families enjoyed face painting, a monster dance competition, colouring and craft activities, plenty of lollies and a visit from SES mascot Patty the Platypus. The unit also decorated one of its emergency trucks in a Halloween theme, giving visitors a chance to see the equipment carried by SES crews. Ms Lunt said the event was created to give local children a safe place to trick-ortreat and celebrate Halloween. “It is a new thing for us,” she said. “We just wanted to create somewhere that was safe, that kids could come and still have a good time.” The night also gave visitors an unexpected glimpse of SES crews in action, with two trucks called away to emergencies during the event, departing with lights and sirens. Ms Lunt said the Halloween night would return next year and was planned to become an annual tradition.
Cranbourne SES members Leanne and Josh.
Mum and Dad Felicity and Kane with Theo.
Sujeth commands the night. “Overall crowds were very well behaved and very polite, thanking us when handed chocolates, lollies or prizes,” she said.
The association will next welcome the community to its Christmas event on Saturday 19 December.
Ayra with Mum and Dad, Niv and Yash.
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Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 19
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
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
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
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
Zumba in the Park
Tai Chi at the Gardens
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
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
Waste & Recycling Information Night
Pollinator Night
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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
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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
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Berwick Farmers Market
den. 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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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#
Kids’ Disco
Melbourne Pasifika Festival
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
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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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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Gardening Together for kids, dads and granddads 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 gar-
Kirkwood Night Market
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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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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
20 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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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 21
SPORT
Tough weekend for Cranny CRANBOURNE BOWLS CLUB PENNANT To say Saturday was a tough day for the club would be an understatement, with the weather, the gods and our opponents seemingly not on our side. Cranbourne 1 Division 1 played at home on the front synthetic green against Parkdale 1, and they proved conclusively why they are on top of the division at this time. Our best rink was skipped by Adam Bartram, with Steve Bentley (third), Dermot McConville (second) and Frank Verco (lead), who put up a credible fight against their opponents, going down by just four shots (14-18). Great effort, team. Our next-best rink was skipped by Chris Stevenson, with Peter Elgar (third), Dennis Tomlin (second) and Vic Butera (lead), who went down by 10 shots (18-28). Our final two rinks had the toughest encounters, going down by 35 and 24 shots respectively. Congratulations, Parkdale. Cranbourne, tomorrow is a new day and we start all over again. Overall: Cranbourne 1 Division 1 (46) was defeated by Parkdale 1 (119), by 73 shots, receiving zero points. At one point, after around six ends had been played, the heavens opened and both rinks were evacuated for about half an hour until the rain eased. The team managers, along with the CBOD and umpires, assessed the greens and deemed them safe before giving approval for players to return. Cranbourne 2 Division 2 took the trip across to Burden Park to take on their number one team. Our best rink was skipped by William Sherriff, with Chris Sharpe (third), Jacqui Warner (second) and Louis Magri (lead). They fought as hard as they could, just falling short by three shots (1518). Next-best was the rink skipped by Hans Worsteling, with Barry Thomas (third), Harry Van Soest (second) and John Anstiss (lead), who also had a great tussle but fell short by three shots (1316). Our other two rinks took the brunt of Burden Park’s force, with both teams going down by 13 and 22 shots respectively. Overall: Cranbourne 2 Division 2 (54) was defeated by Burden Park 1 (95), by 41 shots, receiving zero points. Cranbourne 3 Division 4 played on the front grass green against Mulgrave CC 4, who sit atop the Division 4 ladder undefeated. Again, the results were mixed, but a little closer than in the other divisions. Our best rink was skipped by Bob Pyne, with Brian Turton (third), Cheryl Wright (second) and Claudio Miotto (lead), who certainly enjoyed their game, winning by 11 shots (22-11). Great job, team. Next-best was the team skipped by Mark Blythman, with John Kent (third), Lois Brock (second) and Fritz Helle (lead), who put up a great effort to go down by just two shots (18-20). The team skipped by Derek Maguire, with Yvonne Vanderwees (third), Peter Margiannis (second) and Kristi Hickson (lead), had an interesting game. They often had bowls in the head, but Mulgrave managed to take it away, sometimes through skill and sometimes with a little luck. Overall, Mulgrave just outplayed the team, which went down by five shots (15-20). Our final team had a tough day and their opponents never allowed them to get into the game. However, they’ll be back again next week. Unfortunately, today was a hard one, going down by 24 shots (10-34). Overall: Cranbourne 3 Division 4 (65) was defeated by Mulgrave CC 4 (85), by 20 shots, receiving two points. Cranbourne 4 Division 7 went to the Pantherdome to take on Narre Warren 6, and again it wasn’t easy for the Cranbourne teams. Our best rink was skipped by Liz Hughes, with Marijan Bobetic (third), Modesto Spano (second) and Peter Hunter (lead). This team played a great game and beat their opponents by nine shots (2314). Our next-best was the team skipped by Bob Gye, with Davina Bobetic (third), Jeanne Tomlin (second) and Denise Meulman (lead), who went down (12-25). Our third team, skipped by Neil Fotheringham, with Theresa Von Oppeln (third), Sandra
22 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
Liz Hughes was in fine form over the weekend. (Gary Sissons: 525932)
It was a tough weekend for Cranbourne on the greens. (588478)
Some keen Cranbourne bowlers watch on. (Supplied: 588478)
Some overcast conditions didn’t dampen the spirits of the local bowlers. (588478)
Farlie (second) and Michael Schwab (lead), had a hard day. Although they tried their best, they were outgunned (9-24). Overall: Cranbourne 4 Division 7 (44) was defeated by Narre Warren 6 (63), by 19 shots, receiving two points. The authorised photographs were provided by Jacqui Warner while playing at Burden Park. Thank you, Jacqui. MIDWEEK The past couple of days had seen some rain, but the greens were not flooded and held up pretty well. It was a cooler day, and apart from some early drizzle, the games were able to get underway without delay. Cranbourne 1 Division 2 was drawn against Burden Park 1 and played on our front synthetic, occupying rinks five, six and seven. Our best rink of the day was skipped by Phil Brady, with Chris Stevenson (third), Karen Hickson (second) and Vic Butera (lead). They had a very good day against their opponents and won their rink by 12 shots (26-14). Our next-best rink was skipped by Bill Sherriff, with John Stanley (third), Chris Sharpe (second) and Frank Verco (lead), who won 23-17, finishing six shots up and earning two points. Our third rink, consisting of skip Steve Bentley, Steve Hickson (third), Judy Arms (second) and Ian Wallace (lead), won their game 20-16, finishing four shots up and earning two points. Overall: Cranbourne 1 Division 2 (69) defeated Burden Park 1 (47), by 22 shots, receiving 16 points. Cranbourne 2 Division 3 took on Narre Warren 3 on rinks five, six and seven under the Pantherdome roof. Our best rink was skipped by Scott DePiazza, with Lou Magri (third), Cheryl Wright (second) and Dennis Tomlin (lead). At one point, this team was down by around 10-12 shots, but after the break Scotty and the team roared back to not only recover but go on to win the rink. The team’s lead arrived at Cranbourne that morning with sciatic nerve problems and was in
some pain. He pushed through the pain and contributed to a great rink win. They won 20-17, finishing three shots up and earning two points. Our next-best rink was skipped by Dermot McConville, with Jacqui Warner (third), Barbara Gobel (second) and Sue Buchan (lead). This team had its nose in front for most of the game until two consecutive ends, where they dropped a three and a five, basically killed off their run. They fought it out but went down 19-24, finishing five shots down and receiving zero points. Our final rink, skipped by Derek Maguire, with Brian Turton (third), John Kent (second) and Theresa Von Oppeln (lead), had a very mixed day, playing some good bowls but having little luck. I was the bad guy in collecting the jack but sending it to the opposition, basically costing us the game when it cost me two four-shot ends and made things a lot tougher. To my teammates, I apologise. Our luck must change at some stage. For Narre Warren, their second, third and skipper (Spitter) bowled well. We had our moments and hopefully things will change in the not-too-distant future. Thank you, team. The rink went down 18-27. Overall: Cranbourne 2 Division 3 (57) was defeated by Narre Warren 3 (68), by 11 shots, receiving two points. Cranbourne 3 Division 6 travelled to Parkdale to take on their number four team. If you’ve never played there, it’s a big 10-rink synthetic green that, like any other, takes some time to get used to. Our best rink for the day was skipped by Liz Hughes, with Roger Roscoe (third), Davina Bobetic (second) and Jeanne Tomlin (lead). They had a great win, beating their opponents 25-18 and finishing seven shots up. Great effort, team. Next-best was the team skipped by Bruce Harper, with Peter Margiannis (third), Claudio Miotto (second) and Bob Gye (lead), who played
a great game and only went down by two shots (23-25). Our final rink, skipped by David McMaster, with John Anstiss (third), Sandra Farlie (second) and Allison Devine (lead), obviously tried very hard but were outclassed on three ends, giving away a five and two three-shot ends. That proved to be the difference. Keep at it, team, and you’ll tighten up those multiples. Overall: Cranbourne 3 Division 6 (63) was defeated by Parkdale 4 (71), by eight shots, receiving two points. Cranbourne 4 played at home, hosting Hampton Park 2 on the front synthetic green, utilising rinks three and four. Our best rink was skipped by Steve Bakker, with Bill Bradbury (second) and Modesto Spano (lead), who played some sparkling bowls to win their rink 23-8, finishing 15 shots up and earning two points. Our second rink, skipped by Harry Van Soest, with Fritz Helle (second) and Peter Hunter (lead), won their rink 24-16, finishing eight shots up and earning two points. Overall: Cranbourne 4 (47) defeated Hampton Park 2 (26), by 21 shots, receiving 14 points. Our thanks today go to the following people who sacrificed their time to help us field teams: Roger Roscoe, Bill Bradbury, Fritz Helle and Harry Van Soest. Thanks also to all the players we had to move around from team to team to try to strengthen our sides due to so many players being unavailable. Be aware, this situation may continue for a few more weeks. To the team managers, thank you for all your efforts. Duty rinks, well done. To our bar staff, thank you, and to anybody I might have missed, my apologies. Thanks to Jacqui Warner for the photographs and to the people who locked the gates for me tonight. Finally, to my selection team, thank you. I’ll see you Thursday evening when we do it all again. Thank you, Midweek. - Derek Maguire
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SPORT
Jackson Myers’ knock of 28 ended up proving crucial for Pakenham. (Gary Sissons: 587864)
Tom Rodgers bowls on a day where he took two wickets for Tooradin. (587864)
Bombers blast the Vikings By Justin Schwarze Emerald picked up the most impressive win of the early season as it handed Carlisle Park its first loss in round 4 of the Casey Cardinia Cricket Association (CCCA) District competition. The Vikings won the toss and elected to bat on their home deck, but rain caused the game to have reduced overs. Still, the hosts were fantastic in their time at the crease, despite two players doing most of the heavy-lifting. Tanvir Singh (56) played a strong hit as partners fell around him, reaching a half century in an aggressive innings. His knock came off 44 balls, including striking nine boundaries. By the time he was bowled, he had not had another partner reach double-figures, and he walked from the ground with Carlisle Park 5/87. Daniel Van Hees provided a handy contribution in the middle and it seemed the Vikings were starting to build a steady total, but Sam Booth worked quickly to remove Van Hees (15) and then Raja Sohail (4). However, young gun Ethan Davies was providing the Bombers with headaches late in the innings. He kept the strike and made 49 not out from 48 deliveries, lifting the score alongside Robert Fuller (7 not out) from 7/116 to 7/163 from 27 overs. Jack Raukola snagged four wickets for the visitors, while Booth recorded a pair. It was all the game could manage, so Emerald was sent out to chase a target requiring over six runs an over. The visitors were up for the challenge, brushing off losing experienced stars Clinton Marsh (9) and Owen Thorne (14) relatively early in the chase. Michael Nell (30) played an important role to anchor the innings at the top before he was removed by Amreek Mann. It paved the way for a 64-run partnership formed by Raukola and James Campbell to put the Bombers in a commanding position. Adam Hollingworth broke the stand as Campbell (29) was caught, but Emerald was charging to victory at 4/131. Raukola was the danger man, and he brought up a half ton off just 31 balls, quickly taking the game away from the hosts. Carlisle Park made one last lunge in an attempt to come back, finding the wickets of Jack Sheerin (1) and Raukola (60) in the second-last over, but James Sheerin clipped one over cover for four with four balls to spare to see Emerald over the line at 6/167. It was all-round brilliance from Raukola that sparked the triumph, as the star Bomber produced four wickets and 60 runs in the win. Nar Nar Goon-Maryknoll finally got on the winner’s list as it fended off Merinda Park by four wickets at McNab Reserve. The Cobras were at the crease first, and Agyapal Sidhu (35), Cambell Bryan (34) and Rohit Sharma (19) spearheaded their innings to help the hosts reach 9/167. Jay Riley bowled 3/25 for the Marygoons, while six other bowlers all grabbed a wicket each. It was game on in the chase, with Merinda Park working hard to dismiss Chris Chalmers (19), Bailey Lownds (2), Scott Clark (0) and Will Allen (23) to have Nar Nar Goon-Maryknoll 4/50.
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CASEY CARDINIA CRICKET ASSOCIATION
DISTRICT REVIEW - ROUND 4
Ethan Davies looks to cut one away against Emerald on Saturday. (Rob Carew: 587857)
Will Allen stands tall at the crease for Nar Nar Goon-Maryknoll. (587868)
Bombers stalwart Owen Thorne shows off the bowling form at Carlisle Park. (587857)
Chris Chalmers clips one away in the Marygoons’ successful chase at McNab Reserve. (587868)
A crucial 45-run partnership shared between Rajiv Kumar (21) and Troy Ferguson (23) saw the Marygoons get their noses in front. But the hosts removed both in consecutive overs, pushing the visitors to 6/101. Under heavy pressure, Riley and Russell Perry withstood the barrage from the Cobras to build a match-defining stand. Riley (46 not out off 41) and Perry (23 not out) brought their best to drag the Marygoons to victory at 6/171; enjoying an unbeaten 70-run partnership. Sidhu managed 2/15 for the defeated Cobras.
Pakenham redeemed a lacklustre effort with the bat by rolling Tooradin with the ball at Toomuc Reserve. The Lions were shaky batting first, losing regular wickets to stumble to 7/106 after their 32 overs. Young gun Sendhil Naidu (33) and Jackson Myers (28) scored the bulk of the runs for the hosts as Tye Whitnell took 3/23 from his seven overs for the Gulls. Riley McLeod and Tom Rodgers also chipped in two wickets each. But in reply, Pakenham was ruthless as it tore through the top and middle order.
Ashley Newman (15) and Luke Townsend (15 not out) were the only double-digit scorers, with Jack Melbourne’s three-pole haul proving to be a difference-maker. Tooradin was bundled out for just 82 inside 25 overs, marking a 24-run result for the Lions. Pakenham Upper/Toomuc and Upper Beaconsfield got no play at Harry Blackman Oval as the game was abandoned without a ball bowled. Pakenham sits atop the table with a perfect 3-0 record, followed by Emerald, which is also unbeaten at 2-0.
Thursday, 5 November, 2026 | STAR NEWS 23
Thursday the 26th November 2026, 11am to 3pm
Cranbourne Bowling Club 5 Grant Street, Cranbourne VIC hqjgoldexchange.com.au 12904344-EB45-26
24 STAR NEWS | Thursday, 5 November, 2026
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