News - Berwick Star News - 22nd May 2025

book’s adventures read aloud for a gripping and cosy tale.

The City of Casey’s Mayor, Stefan Koomen, was also one of the readers, enthralling the kids on a journey and a heart-warming tale of cats, humans and the search for home.

Residents no show

By Ethan Benedicto

After a two-month hiatus from in-person meetings, the City of Casey’s May meeting was finally held with a gallery, and despite a limit of 80, only 10 residents were present.

These residents were outnumbered by securi-

ty guards, as well as nine police officers who gathered at the foyer in Bunjil Place, all in anticipation of a much larger crowd.

The gallery cap came as the February meeting eventually devolved into a series of constant disruptive behaviour from the 300-strong gallery, which led to the meeting being adjourned.

In addition to Bunjil staff, security and police officers, some additional doormen directed the usual crowd towards the library’s side entrance. The meeting eventually began at 6pm sharp, with security personnel keeping the doors open until 6:15pm to allow for late arrivals, though none arrived.

The council’s decision to cap the gallery to 80 was initially met with opposition from the CRRA, citing previous events that held more capacity with more people.

For the full story, turn to page 6

From left to right: Four-year-old Kalina from Narre Warren and Sunny Lesionek, a Children’s and Youth Officer from Connected Libraries, smile eagerly during the story time. (Gary Sissons: 476727)

Education boost in budget

By Violet Li

The 2025-26 State Budget has unveiled another year of new funding for education infrastructure across the Casey area.

The budget reveals that four new schools in Casey will be open to students from Term 1 2026, including Ballarto Road Primary School, Casey Central Primary School, Clyde Creek North Primary and Secondary School.

Several new capital projects have been included in the budget.

Thomas Mitchell Primary School of Endeavour Hills will share $25 million with the other 20 schools statewide for small-scale capital projects. An estimated $11.5 million is expected to be delivered in the 2025-26 financial year.

Hallam Primary School will share $10 million in the 2025-26 financial year with the other 19 schools statewide for planning future upgrades.

Rangebank Primary School of Cranbourne will be allocated a total of $6.3 million for the modernisation and upgrading of existing school facilities. An estimated $1.8 million is set aside for the next financial year, and the estimated completion date is around quarter 4 of the 2026-27 financial year.

Casey Fields Primary School and Cranbourne West Secondary College will share $47.7 million with Riverwalk Primary School in the west on expansions to provide additional permanent capacity. About $0.9 million is planned to be delivered in the next financial year for three schools.

will see a Year 7-9 building, a competition-grade gymnasium and an administration building, which will create places for 225 more local students. The school was promised funding of $24.2 million in the 2023–24 State Budget.

In her budget speech, Treasurer Jaclyn Symes said her education experience taught her that education opens doors and, importantly, it gives people the chance to imagine a bigger future.

“And that belief – that every Victorian deserves hope and to dream big about their future – is at the heart of this budget,” she said.

“It’s why we’re building and upgrading and planning new schools across our state, because every family should be able to rely on a great local school.”

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards congratulated three schools in the Cranbourne area that were receiving new funds in this round of the State Budget on her Facebook.

“Cranbourne is truly the education centre of the universe and our students will benefit from these huge investments,” she said.

Several existing projects across Casey’s schools from the previous budgets will go ahead with new rounds of funding secured.

Cranbourne Secondary College can expect $4.5 million in the next financial year for the school’s upgrade and modernisation. The entire

The State Government has also pledged $237 million to acquire land for future new schools and new campuses of existing schools in various municipalities, including Casey, Darebin, Melbourne, and Melton. The specific lands and the acquisition capitals have not been shared in the budget.

project costs about $9 million, which was announced in the 2024-25 State Budget.

About $7 million has been allocated for the Lyndhurst Secondary College’s upgrade and modernisation. In the 2024-25 State Budget, total project funding of $13.6 million was announced.

Hallam Secondary College will receive a major $15 million for the school’s upgrade. The upgrade

Opposition MP for the South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Ann-Marie Hermans, who is also the Shadow Assistant Minister for Education, said: “After failing to provide full funding for upgrades at Rangebank Primary School in Cranbourne, promised at the last State Election, the Allan Labor Government claims that they’re doing so in this Budget.

“While I welcome this funding after fighting for it to be delivered, I’m disappointed that they plan to complete upgrades in April 2027, months after the next State Election.

“Disgracefully, Labor did not reverse the $2.4 billion cut to public schools, a direct consequence of Labor’s financial mismanagement.”

Roads, hospitals and more revealed for Casey

By Ethan Benedicto

The Victorian State Budget was recently announced with a swathe of investments in the City of Casey.

To begin, there is a strong, $1.2 billion ‘Road Blitz’ that builds on the 19 projects and upgrades to roads across the state, including Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Clyde Five Ways Road, and the Pattersons Road intersection upgrade in Clyde North.

The duplication of Evans Road between Duff Street and Central Parkway in Cranbourne also comes under this investment, alongside the Western Port Highway upgrade.

There will also be some resurfacing allocated for the Princes Highway and Harmer Road in Hallam, and Princes Highway intersection upgrades in Brunt Road and McMullen Road in Beaconsfield.

Clyde Road has a $277.7 million estimated total investment that saw a rise of $34.02 million through additional Commonwealth Government funding.

By the same token, the estimated expenditure to 30 June 2025 is $112.370 million, with the

completion date set for Quarter 1 of 2027-28.

There is also an estimated investment of $279.921 million into the emergency department expansion program for Casey Hospital, alongside Werribee Mercy Hospital, which is set to finish in Quarter 4 of 2025-26.

While not explicitly stated on the Budget papers, Cranbourne Community Hospital was coined as part of $643.3 million in estimated investments for eight other hospitals in their opening and operation.

The overall financing that includes Cranbourne Community Hospital also applies to the much larger investments on the new Footscray Hospital, with an additional $305 million, and for the Frankston Hospital Redevelopment, with an additional $165 million.

Taking a look at Narre Warren North, Belinda Wilson MP announced that the Budget is investing up to $165,000 for lighting upgrades at the Barry Simon Reserve.

Speaking on her region of Narre Warren North and surrounds, Wilson said that ”this Budget is all about delivering one of the things that matter most to families, whether it’s real

help with the cost of living, or improving school and community sport facilities”.

Narre Warren South MP, Gary Maas, also celebrated the Budget’s contributions, with $250,000 for lighting upgrades to the KM Reedy Reserve, as well as Hampton Park’s new CFA satellite station.

“Families across Narre Warren South love their community sport - and we’re proud to be backing Hampton Park United Sparrows FC with new lighting at KM Reedy Reserve,” he said.

“From help with the cost of living to more investment in frontline services - this is a Budget that’s focused on what matters most to families in Narre Warren South.”

Further on the emergency sector, an estimated total of $18.4 million has been allocated for additional CFA stations in the state, including a satellite station in Hampton Park.

Casey has also been coined as one of the series of municipalities part of the estimated investment of $237.4 million on land acquisition for future schools and new campuses for existing ones.

The growth areas infrastructure contribution

(GAIC) revenue, which Casey and neighbouring Cardinia are part of, is also expected to be $223 million in 2025-26, and is expected to grow by 3.8 per cent.

A total of $14.1 million has also been allocated to run Cranbourne, Pakenham and Sunbury train line services through the five new underground stations at Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall and Anzac Stations.

More on trains, a fleet of 70 high-capacity metro trains has been delivered, with trains operating on the Pakenham-Cranbourne corridor as well as Sunbury.

Bus services from Merinda Park Station to Clyde North were also part of a $9.3 million investment for improving bus and ferry services.

The Narre Warren Police Station, which recently closed its physical facility for refurbishments, and a new police station in Clyde North were part of a state-wide infrastructure budget of $153.134 million.

These two stations, alongside a new facility in Wollert, also increased the total estimated investment by $89.987 million; estimated completion is set for Quarter 4 in 2027-28.

Slice of the budget pie

What will Casey get out of the 2025-26 State Budget? Education:

· ThomasMitchellPrimarySchool(EndeavourHills)-

shares $25 million for 21 schools, small-scale capital projects

· Hallam Primary School - shares $10 million for 20 schools,planningfutureupgrades

· Rangebank Primary School (Cranbourne): $6.3 millionupgrade

· Casey Fields Primary School and Cranbourne West Secondary College - part of $47.7 million for 3 schools’expansions

Roads:

· Duplication of Evans Road between Duff Street and CentralParkway(Cranbourne)

· Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Clyde Five Ways Road, andthePattersonsRoadintersectionupgrade(Clyde North)

· Planning and early works for the Western Port Highwayupgrade

· Resurfacing for the Princes Highway and Harmer Road (Hallam), and Princes Highway intersection

upgrades in Brunt Road and McMullen Road (Beaconsfield)

Community Infrastructure:

· Barry Simon Reserve, Narre Warren North: $165,000 forlightingupgrades.

· KMReedyReserve,NarreWarrenSouth:$250,000for lightingupgrades.

Health:

· Casey Hospital Emergency Department program expansion: estimated $279.921 million shared with WerribeeMercyHospital.

· Cranbourne Community Hospital: shares $643.3 millionforninehospitals’openingandoperation.

Emergency Services:

· Hampton Park new satellite CFA station - part of $18.4millionfornewstationsacrossVic.

· Narre Warren and Clyde North Police Stations - part of $153 million for state-wide police infrastructure funding.

Public Transport:

· Bus service from Merinda Park Station to Clyde North:$9.3million

Rangebank Primary School students visited the Metro Tunnel with students of Sunbury’s Killara Primary School, Premier Jacinta Allan, and Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards. Rangebank Primary School will receive $6.3 million for its upgrade, according to the 2025-26 State Budget. (Facebook)

Levy sparks local backlash

By Violet Li

The Casey community is opposing the controversial Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF), saying the new levy is a “cash grab” that will deepen the cost-of-living crisis.

The new levy prompted hundreds of firefighters from across the state to protest in Melbourne city on the morning of the state budget delivery day.

Cranbourne Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) senior station officer and United Firefighters Union (UFU) Victoria delegate Geoff Barker said it was an “extreme insult” that their names as firefighters and emergency service workers were being used this way.

“Of course, we should fund emergency services, but it’s not what this is about. This is the government using firefighters and emergency service workers as human shields for an unfair tax grab,” he said.

He said everyone would be impacted by the new levy, from professional firefighters to volunteer firefighters to farmers, to landlords to renters and business owners.

“It’s not just a property-based tax, but it’s a tax that’ll flow on through consumer goods through to the checkout at the supermarket,” he said.

“This tax hit farmers harder than anybody else. They don’t have the money sitting around to pay for it. We’ve already heard of farmers talking about tens of thousands of dollars.

“Many of these farmers are volunteers. It’s going to impact them, despite the fact that the government talks about volunteers being exempt, it’s primarily their principal place of residence.”

The new levy ESVF was passed last week in parliament to replace the Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL) from 1 July this year.

According to the State Government, ESVF will “help support a broader range of emergency services and for the first time include VICSES, Triple Zero Victoria, the State Control Centre, Forest Fire Management Victoria and Emergency Recovery Victoria, as well as the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and FRV”. It will still be collected by councils.

The new levy will fund 90 per cent of FRV’s budget, and 95 per cent of CFA’s and VICSES’s budgets.

Variable rates will be higher under the new levy to account for its larger scope.

For residential properties, the median charge will grow by more than 30 per cent from $191 to

$254. For farmers, the median liability will grow by more than 85 per cent from $621 to $1120.

The new levy is estimated to collect more than $600 million a year on top of the existing levy and more than $2 billion over the next three years.

Eligible CFA and VICSES volunteers will receive a rebate on their principal place of residence or farm.

Opposition MP for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Ann-Marie Hermans said constituents across her electorate had contacted her in droves, worried about the impact it would have on the cost of living.

“Higher taxes risk putting farmers and growers in the South East out of business, and will drive up the cost of groceries for everyone else.

Local councils will be forced to collect this tax and incur the costs of doing so, while not having a share in it,” she said.

“The costs will be passed onto ratepayers in the form of higher rates or diminished core services.

“Disgracefully, the government is calling it a ‘fund’ for the emergency services, but in reality, not a cent is going to the fire services for the replacement of outdated vehicles.”

City of Casey Cranbourne Gardens Ward Councillor Michelle Crowther said she hadn’t been contacted by local farmers about the new levy, but after speaking to local vegetable farmers in recent months, many told her they were struggling with the lack of rain and having to purchase

water, as their dams and bores were dry.

“These water costs, combined with many other rising costs and taxes, are impacting our local farmers’ financial viability,” she said.

“It is disappointing that the new ESVF levy unfairly burdens our already-struggling farmers.”

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said the council values the crucial role emergency services play in supporting the Casey communities.

“However, we believe this increased levy unfairly places further financial pressure on our community, who are already well and truly feeling the impacts of cost-of-living pressures,” he said.

“It’s important to emphasise that the Council acts only as a collector of this levy, with all funds going directly to and managed by the State Government. Undertaking this role places extra pressure on Council resources.

“As a member of the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), we support last week’s agreed actions. Representing local Councils statewide, the MAV voted to lobby the State Government against Councils collecting this levy and to ensure that the levy is fair and doesn’t place an unfair burden on farmers or people living in rural areas.”

Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said she knew this was a very difficult time for many members of the community, particularly farmers, with drought conditions and bad harvests.

“I am glad to see some recent changes to the levy, including reducing the cost to primary producers and providing refunds for farmers in drought-impacted areas,” she said.

“Eligible CFA and SES volunteers and life members will also receive a full refund on their primary residence. In addition, eligible farmers in declared drought-impacted areas will be able to claim an additional partial rebate in 2025/26. This means that these farmers will have no increase in their Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy rates compared to those they paid the previous year for their Fire Services Property Levy.

“Every single dollar raised by this new fund will support our emergency services. This is an extension of the Fire Services Levy, which brings in the SES who currently have to pay, for example, their own fuel, protective uniform, extinguisher checks and equipment repairs.

“These changes will give emergency services the funding and equipment they need as they face natural disasters, which are happening more often and becoming more destructive.”

Coalition promises to scrap new emergency levy if in power

By Violet Li

Coalition says they will scrap Labor’s new emergency levy if elected next year.

Opposition leader Brad Battin said the State Government was once again using a heartless tax hike to plug its budget black hole.

“Only Labor could try and spin a massive land tax as support for volunteers. This is not about emergency services, it’s about squeezing more cash from Victorians to pay for Labor’s budget blowouts,” he said.

According to Mr Battin, under a Coalition

Government, the new levy, named as Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF), will be scrapped and the original Fire Services Property Levy will be reinstated, with SES funding secured through the State Budget, not through property rates.

“This is about fairness, transparency, and properly supporting those who protect our communities,” he said.

Mr Battin also said emergency services volunteers deserve genuine support, not confusing rebate schemes and false promises.

“Labor has failed to respect our CFA and SES

volunteers. Their funding model is based on deception, and we will scrap it.”

Leader of The Nationals and Shadow Minister for Emergency Services Danny O’Brien said regional Victorians had been hit hardest by Labor’s new tax.

“This cruel tax deserves to be consigned to history. The Liberals and Nationals will make sure it is,” he said.

“It is a tax that hits regional Victorians particularly hard – and it’s about plugging budget holes, not boosting frontline emergency services.

“Slugging farmers with a 150 per cent increase

to what they previously paid is nothing short of callous amid a drought and a cost-of-living crisis.”

The new emergency levy was passed last week in parliament to replace the original Fire Services Property Levy from 1 July this year.

It is aimed at supporting a broader range of emergency services.

According to the newly released State Budget 2025-26, the new levy is estimated to collect more than $2 billion on top of the existing levy over the next three years.

Treasurer Jaclyn Symes did not measure the new levy in her budget speech.

May 2025 9:30am - 11:00am

Cranbourne FRV firefighter and United Firefighters Union (UFU) Victoria delegate Geoff Barker was protesting against the new emergency levy with hundreds of other firefighters from across the state in the city on the morning of the State Budget delivery day. (Supplied)

Mum’s plea for supervisors

By Ethan Benedicto

A local parent’s request for crossing supervisors at the Viewbright Road and Bells Road intersection in Clyde North has been dismissed, with the City of Casey saying that it did not meet the requirements of the number of students crossing per hour.

Nicole Stegmann walks her three primary school children to the campus on a regular basis, enough to lead her to the conclusion that even with lights, the crossing is seldom safe, especially at peak hours.

Viewbright Road crosses through a crucial intersection with Bells Road, turning into Skylark Boulevard, and serves as the crossing point for students attending Hillcrest Christian College.

According to Nicole, it’s very common to see drivers during these busier times to “just run red lights, at every single cycle”.

“So I know to stop and wait, and I see other kids that stop, wait and then stop.

“Even this morning, there were four or five kids on bikes that didn’t get off, moving with people walking and crossing the roads - it’s just chaos,” she said.

Stegmann added that off-peak, the road functions like any other, with fewer vehicles and people crossing, the worry isn’t there.

However, during the morning and mid-afternoon periods is when the traffic accumulates, and for Stegmann, a minimum of two crossing supervisors is a must.

Contacting the City of Casey, she received a reply that detailed the decision not to implement crossing supervisors at the intersection, providing a list of criteria that needed to be met in order for supervisors to be considered.

Nicole Stegmann, a local mum who walks her three children to Hillcrest Christian College through the intersection at Viewbright Road and Bells Road, said that crossing supervisors are a must. (Ethan Benedicto: 478583)

The response from the email said that Casey has “undertaken observations and pedestrian/ vehicle counts at the Bells Road and Viewbright Road, Clyde North intersection, and it did not meet the minimum number of primary students per hour”.

“There are a lot of parents who are walking their kids to school, and even one morning, I asked my child, who’s 11 years old, if they would be comfortable walking to school by themselves, and they said no,” Stegmann said.

“People aren’t paying attention, but at least, if we could get that big lane covered, even if there’s a camera or something, just to mitigate the risk.”

Speaking on the presence that crossing super-

Open day for all to explore

The Endeavour Hills Men’s Shed recently held their open day in April, with the large turnout prompting members to make it an annual event.

From members’ families and friends, local members of Parliament also attended, with Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson and Bruce MP Julian Hill coming down to partake in activities.

“The MPs’ presence really added an extra spark to the event, but it was the activities that really stole the show,” Louis Zaharopoulos, EHMS member, said.

“I mean, what’s an Aussie event without a sausage sizzle? Bruno Volpe’s sizzling sausages’ aroma filled the air, and everyone dug in for a classic, tasty treat.

”Kids were also kept entertained with face painting, turning themselves into anything from lions to superheroes.”

The day began with a warm welcome from the EHMS vice president, Ron Sterling, who introduced the two local MPs.

Soon after, music was ringing through the air as volunteers played their instruments, as members such as Peter Wallace worked the new sound mixer, Bob Daly did tours on the work-

shop, and John Thornton kept oversight on the event’s process.

Of course, the biggest highlight of the event was the members’ creations put out on display.

”The tables showcase the amazing hobbies and talents of the EHMS crew, such as John Grennan’s Marquetry Inlay art, Tony Brosinsky’s Beehives and Honey and more,” Zaharopoulos said.

Pieces also included Zaharopoulos’ own handmade creations, alongside wooden pens made by Aaron Zong, jigsaw puzzles by Brian Oates and some needlework pieces by member Bruce Latham.

“From car lovers, there were two classic vehicles on display, which were Ronnie Alday’s restored 1948 Ford F100 Ute and Ian Cole’s 1956 Chevy,” Zaharopoulos said.

“As the day wrapped up, everyone left with smiles on their faces, and I think it showed how successful the open day was.

“It’s all thanks to the hard work that the members who volunteer their time have done, and because of them, the event ran smoothly and made some lasting memories for all.”

We encourage every student to pursue excellence in all endeavours and aim to ensure every student achieves their best potential so they are ready - not just for the completion of their final exams but for life!

To find out more, book a tour and apply please visit our website or use the QR Code.

visors provide, Stegmann said that when there are more “visual cues that say, this is a school”, there’s a bigger impact on safety.

“A lot of people seem not to realise that it’s a school zone that they’re driving through.

“Hillcrest has a lot of trees and it’s covered up, but people also aren’t paying attention to signs, and the limits are going from 60 to 40, then 40 to 60.

“A lot of motorists are not paying attention, but if there are signals, more signs, and they know that there are lollipop people in the morning and afternoon, it hopefully makes them more alert,” she said.

In the council’s response relating to criteria, it was added that an assessment of accident risk to children crossing the road at a site is dependent on traffic volumes, vehicle speeds, visibility and the number of children crossing.

It was highlighted that primary children are particularly at risk, with children crossings for primary school children are calculated into the criteria for additional supervision by multiplying the number of children (a minimum of 20) by the number of vehicles in the hour (a minimum of 100), and if that figure exceeds 5000.

Applicable to students of Hillcrest College, secondary schools have a different formula, where the number of children (also a minimum of 20) is multiplied by the number of vehicles in the hour (a minimum of 250), and exceeds 25,000, and is only when additional supervision is considered.

“Most people cross at that point, so having two crossing attendants for each lane would stop the kids from riding their bikes,” Stegmann said.

“We need to have those lollipop signs and for them to blow the whistle, because that’s really it, the kids don’t have the awareness that adults do.

“But that’s really it, it’s just that time in the morning and the afternoon to stop the possibilities of someone stepping onto a road where a car could just come through.”

On other measures to calm traffic, Stegmann said that despite sections of Bells Road coming from St Germain Central still being limited to 40/ kmh, “no one does 40”.

“I mean, they’re doing 40/kmh when the traffic’s backed up all the way down the road, but when they get that opportunity, they’re flying through,” she said.

In the council’s response to Stegmann, the School Crossing Supervisor Program is a responsibility under the State Government, and is listed under the Road Management Act 2004 and the Transport Integration Act 2010.

Their criteria also added that the School Crossing Risk Assessment Framework is used to assess new crossing sites and greenfield sites, but not existing infrastructure.

This in turn provides an output that a supervised children’s crossing or a supervised signalised crossing is required.

Further details on the other criteria included that pedestrian-operated signals needed more than 20 primary school children per hour.

For other crossings, the council obtains the Department of Transport and Planning’s (DTP) agreement to the need for supervision, on account of special needs and other factors related to safety. This is anything from excessive vehicle speed, road geometry, limited sight distance, volume of heavy vehicles and road width.

Stegmann is looking for a bigger emphasis on safety, saying that the concern is not her own, but also other parents who walk their children in the morning.

The band at the Endeavour Hills Men’s Shed open day comprised of members, all eager to play their tunes to the audience. (Supplied)

$400k grant in ‘transit’

By Ethan Benedicto

With the $400,000 funding confirmed for the new Support and Skills Hub at Transit Soup Kitchen and Food Support, its volunteers and staff could not be more excited for the months to come.

Michelle Pinxt, Transit’s grants and community relations officer, said that “there are no words for the excitement”.

“The new possibilities for our guests are going to be extraordinary, so many of our guests are just not engaging in the services that they need, and the delay between when they come to us and when they do use those services is too great.

“A lot more trauma or problems could have happened in that time, so we’re hoping to close that gap and let our guests get the help they need,” she said.

Located on-site, the new hub will feature referrals to social services, mental health support, legal aid, job training, resume writing workshops, first aid training, vocational training sessions and housing assistance.

Likewise, with the new funding, Transit is expecting to add a project manager to their roster, one who is solely responsible for the hub’s operations.

Casey’s Mayor, Stefan Koomen and Casuarina Ward councillor Kim Ross met with the

Transit’s grants and community relations officer, Michelle Pinxt, to deliver the good news.

Mayor Koomen said that he would “like to congratulate Transit and their 120 volunteers who provide a fantastic service and do wonderful work in our community”.

“Navigating government systems can be overwhelming, especially for those who lack basic computer skills, don’t speak English or have mental health challenges.

“The creation of this hub will increase access to vital services and help our most vulnerable residents,” he said.

Transit provides roughly 1500 people on a weekly basis, and to Michelle, what they are looking to do is “while they’re having their meals or picking up their groceries, those services are going to be at Transit”.

“They’ll have opportunities to engage with, let’s say, free haircuts, job interview trainings, domestic violence support services, and housing support services.

“We will be advertising ahead of time who is coming, and we will be targeting the people who need it the most,” she said.

Councillor Ross said that it will complement the service that Transit is already providing to the more than 1500 people who visit weekly for fresh groceries or a nutritious, three-course sitdown meal.

“The underlying causes of food security are complex, and this fantastic initiative is a big step towards deepening work between emergency food relief agencies and other community support services,” Ross said.

“It builds on Transits’ existing model that focuses on helping the community with efficiency and compassion, and allows for an expansion of their work on bridging the gap between crisis and stability.”

The team at Transit is looking to reach out when and if these services become available, and during the two days that they close, they will be hosting community events that their patrons can attend.

On the topic of legal aid and other similar support services, Michelle said that it’ll all be “local partnerships”.

“So we’re hoping to reach out to all sorts of legal aid providers, anyone that has the expertise, and if they’re willing to either give us a few hours or a few days or a few weeks, or whatever they can provide.

“We’ll be having a full range of connections over the next few years,” she said.

Building on the expansion of Transit’s horizons, as well as the people they serve, Michelle said that she is hoping the new services will “enrich the people, I think they’re going to feel more heard, and more cared for and loved”.

At the same time, she and the team at Transit are expecting the demand to grow, adding that the hub moves with their service.

“The demand for food support is growing every day, so we’re registering on average 10 new households a day, and in terms of numbers, it will definitely increase,” she said.

“With that, we need to find more food supplies, and we need to reach out, but we’re hoping that through all of these connections, it could grow as well.”

The hub is matching the demand of the services down the line, with Michelle saying that Transit’s volunteers have been in the role for years, building relationships with their guests and patrons, and are more than keen to step into the new space to lend a helping hand.

“I was one of the people who started Transit 15 years ago, and we are now becoming this incredible social support network,” Michelle said.

“I mean, I’m just in awe of the change and dedication of the people who have walked the journey the whole time.

”We’re excited to see this next chapter of Transit and see what it brings, because we’ve got so many incredible people coming in through our doors, and we just want to be able to help them in whatever possible way we can.”

From left to right: Volunteers Michael and Lisa; Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen; Michelle Pinxt; Cr Kim Ross; and Pastor Keith Vethaak. (Supplied)

More security than residents

By Ethan Benedicto

The City of Casey’s monthly meeting was held on Tuesday, 20 May, with no hitches or interjections, as only 10 of the 80 registered residents attended.

Security, including police, also outnumbered the attending gallery, as an hour prior to the meeting, three police vehicles arrived one after the other at Bunjil Place.

A total of nine police officers gathered with Bunjil’s security personnel inside the foyer, holding a short meeting before dispersing just outside the entrances of the meeting room and the outside pavilion.

The foyer itself was closed off to the public, with the usual weekday student crowd being redirected to the side library entrance.

The regular points of entry into Bunjil were also being supervised by a total of four additional security personnel.

As time moved closer to 6pm, residents slowly began to arrive, but the tally only reached 10, with the meeting beginning shortly after 6pm.

The allotted time of entry was also extended to 6:15pm to allow late registrants to attend the meeting, however, there were no further arrivals.

In light of the February meeting and its eventual spiral into disruptive behaviour from the over 300-strong gallery, Casey mayor Stefan

Two police cars - a third arriving shortly after - were parked outside Bunjil

30 minutes before the meeting began. (Ethan Benedicto: 479519)

Koomen highlighted key changes to the audience as the meeting began, which would be applicable in the current and future council meetings.

Prior to the meeting, the 80-person gallery decision was met with opposition from the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association, with vice-president Anthony Tassone adamant that

a larger audience was possible, and should be considered.

“There have been functions and events, with more than 80 people, with tables and furniture, and it has not posed an issue then, so why are we insisting on a limit of 80?” Tassone said.

“Ratepayers have paid for a building that

Pivotal growth area fund cut in budget

by Corey Everitt

Growthareacouncils say theyare“forgotten” bythe State Government after a vital infrastructure fund was cut in this year’s budget.

The 2025-26 State Budget, released on Tuesday, strips all funding from the Growing Suburbs Fund (GSF).

For the past decade, this fund has been used to support the construction and maintenance of local parks, playgrounds, community centres, skate parks, accessible public toilets, and more.

OuterMelbourneCouncils(OMC),whichrepresents all major growth areas, said the outer suburbs matter.

“There’s another Melbourne beyond the tram tracks that’s being forgotten,” an OMC spokesperson said.

“The loss of the Growing Suburbs Fund will mean councils must spend less on critical community infrastructure.

“Following the Werribee byelection, it’s astounding the government has opted not to renew this critical funding stream.”

The GSF provided over $35 million to fund 23 infrastructure projects in Cardinia Shire and over $40 million to fund 32 projects in the City of Casey. The projects would see the GSF contributing to

OPINION

overall funding, with the respective council typically matching the State Government funding. IYU Reserve, Officer District Park and the Main Street Revitalisation are among the GSF-backed projects in Cardinia.

GSF projects in Casey include Cranbourne West Community Hub, Ray Bastin Reserve Redevelopment and Hunt Club Oval.

Without mentioning the fund specifically, VictorianTreasurerJaclynSymestoldParliamentthegovernmentwas“windingbacknon-priorityprograms.”

OMC said one bright spot in the budget was funding for a series of outer suburban roads projects.

Funding has been allocated for road upgrades in Clyde North, Cranbourne, Beaconsfield and Hallam.

The announcement of free public transport for all Victorian kids also promises to deliver a cost saving for families, OMC said, but only if they have the option for putting their kids on public transport.

OMC continues to call for a significant investment in the bus network and service upgrades, without which families will continue to depend on cars.

“Free public transport means less than nothing if you don’t have a local bus or train service,” the spokesperson said.

Last year, the State Government committed $22 million for new and extended bus services in Cardinia, which has extended the 928 and 925 routes through Pakenham and Officer.

This funding has been helped by the Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution (GAIC), the fund has also extended bus services in Casey, such as route 798 in Clyde. There are no extension for the bus network in Cardinia and Casey in the latest budget.

A new $150 million round of GAIC was open for submission late last year with funding expected to be allocated this year.

they’re now being kept out of during council meetings.”

The City of Casey’s official response from their manager of communications and corporate governance, Chloe Casey, which Mayor Koomen also highlighted at the beginning of the meeting, was “based on safety and space considerations”.

“The layout of the room limits the gallery area, which is seated only.

“The capacity limit also ensures compliance with Occupational Risk and Safety (OHS) and Emergency Management requirements for safe access and exit points,” Casey said.

The meeting was also live-streamed to watchers on Facebook and YouTube, with the councillor group going through all six items on the agenda and public questions.

Tassone further added that “the council chambers appear to be able to adequately accommodate far more attendees, and with a preregistration process of obtaining details, this should give the Council greater comfort that those attending are from the municipality”.

The inside gallery was spacious, allowing ample room for movement for the members of the gallery, as well as the councillor group.

Additional new rules applicable to the gallery also include no video recording and no banners or signs.

Dire injuries

A motorcyclist was left fighting for life with critical injuries following a collision in Berwick on Sunday, 18 May.

Casey Highway Patrol officers are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage, after police were told that the rider was travelling west on O’Shea’s Road when they collided with a car at the intersection of Bridgewater Boulevard around 5:50pm.

The male rider, who has yet to be formally identified, was airlifted to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the vehicle stopped at the scene, spoke with police and did not sustain any injuries.

Police continue to appeal for witnesses and dashcam vision on who may have seen the green Kawasaki bike prior to the collision, to come forward.

Anyone who witnesses the collision or has dashcam footage is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or make an anonymous report on www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Mulino must extend the lifeline for publishers

By Paul Thomas *

With the appointment of Dr Daniel Mulino as Assistant Treasurer, the Albanese Government faces a moment of reckoning for the future of Australian journalism. The implementation of the News Media Bargaining Incentive is now urgent, not just because Meta has walked away from its deals, but because this time, the system must actually support the journalists doing the work where it counts.

The original News Media Bargaining Code, introduced in 2021, was a landmark reform. It finally delivered essential remuneration for news content that had been exploited by global digital platforms for decades, content that helped build the enormous reach and profitability of companies like Google and Meta. For publishers like ours, that funding provided a lifeline, helping to stabilise operations and protect jobs in dozens of local newsrooms.

But it should have gone further. Despite the intent of the Code, the bulk of the money went to the largest and most powerful players. News Corp, Nine, and others were able to strike massive deals early, using their scale, political leverage, and lobbying power to capture the lion’s share of

the value. Smaller, independent publishers were left to negotiate from a position of weakness, often too late to achieve a fair outcome.

Now, with Meta refusing to renew its agreements and the government responding with the News Media Bargaining Incentive, the same imbalance must not be repeated. If Meta chooses to pay the flat charge rather than negotiate new commercial deals, as it has indicated, it will be up

to the government to collect and distribute the funds equitably. This time, the funding must go where it is truly needed.

At Star News Group and Today News Group, we publish nearly 60 mastheads, most in regional and outer suburban communities. We are proud members of Country Press Australia, which represents 220 independent newspapers, each one anchored in its community, each one providing journalism that no one else does. Our reporters cover council meetings, courts, emergencies, local sport, and general community news. They live where they report.

That kind of journalism is disappearing, and without direct and targeted support, more of it will go.

By contrast, some of the biggest media companies in Australia have built models increasingly reliant on clickbait, sensationalism, and partisan opinion. News Corp’s content is often more about provoking reaction than informing the public. That is their prerogative, but it should not be where the public’s journalism support ends up.

This is a moment for the government to draw a line and reset the balance. The new system must support genuine public interest journalism, especially in communities where no other source of

news exists. It must fund those who are reporting on the ground, not those churning out engagement driven content from centralised newsrooms.

Dr Mulino must act quickly. The legislation is not yet in place. The levy and offset framework remain unclear. And local publishers across Australia are already feeling the financial impact of Meta’s withdrawal.

Prime Minister Albanese has said he wants a government that governs for all Australians. That includes the millions in regional towns and suburban communities who rely on local news to stay informed and connected. The News Media Bargaining Incentive is the government’s opportunity to prove it. It is not just about media economics. It is about whether democracy remains meaningful outside the capital cities. It is about whether truth, scrutiny, and representation are still available to every Australian, no matter where they live. We got a lifeline last time, but it was never enough. This time, let’s make it fair. And let’s make it count.

* Paul Thomas is managing director of Star News Group and Today News Group and a life member of Country Press Australia and the Victorian Country Press Association.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Treasurer Jaclyn Symes. (James Ross/AAP)

New Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino.

Place

NEWS Toni an inspiring advocate

By Ava Cashmore

Antonia “Toni” Arfaras has spent over three decades changing lives across the City of Casey — but this year, her efforts have been officially recognised.

Named as the joint 2025 Casey Citizen of the Year, Toni’s passion for volunteering and stroke awareness advocacy has left an undeniable mark on her community.

For Toni, volunteering has always been standard operating procedure.

“I’ve volunteered even when I was in high school,” she recalls.

“I did some volunteering within the school, like on the SRC (Student Representative Council) and things like that.”

However, her commitment to the community became particularly apparent in the mid-1990s, when her eldest daughter started kindergarten.

That marked the beginning of a long journey of community service — one that would come to be a true passion in her life.

A life-altering moment arrived in 2013, when Antonia suffered a major stroke at the age of 46.

She later experienced three more minor strokes, known as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs).

She wasn’t aware she had had the major stroke until a week later, and is “affected every single day by it.”

Each minor stroke after that just made Toni’s symptoms worse and worse.

“I go from being able to speak this [interview]

with you, to not being able to speak, not being able to understand what people say to me,” Toni said.

“I start losing the ability to walk. I get what’s called left-side neglect, which is where I’m not aware where the left-hand side of my body is, so I’ll bump into things with it.”

Toni’s disability also significantly impacts her ability to partake in many aspects of life people likely would never even realise, without having a similar experience to her.

“I can no longer read books. I was a really, really big reader, I had like, 1,000 books in the house and I got rid of them all because I can’t follow storylines.”

Toni’s disability is often brought on by sensory overload. Loud noises and bustling environ-

Volunteer at The Bridge

At The Bridge, our purpose is to empower lives and inspire futures by providing holistic support to people with disabilities. We are always looking for volunteers that are willing to help people living with disabilities to enjoy a range of recreational, sporting, and work activities. Volunteering is beneficial for personal and professional development where you can learn more about yourself as well as contributing to the development of others. We will provide induction training, ongoing mentoring and will support you every step of the way on what can be an incredible and exciting new experience for you.

The Bridge offers a variety of activities to support our participants to lead more independent and happy lives:

· Keeping fit: swimming, basketball, sailing and gym

· Socialising: shopping, luncheons and morning/afternoon tea

· New skills: work experience, using public transport, numeracy and literacy, woodwork, plus arts and crafts

Meet Linda, one of our lovely volunteers, who helps out at both our Cranbourne and Beaconsfield day service sites. Linda started at The Bridge in 2022 and is very well loved by our clients.

Having had a 20-year career working in Specialist Disability Schools, Linda knew The Bridge from some of her students attending services in the past. After taking some time off, she wanted to stay in the disability sector and give back. In her words, she thought The Bridge was a great organisation and was very impressed by them, so she contacted us to volunteer and we’re so glad she did!

Linda helps out with various activities offered at the sites such as fishing and golf but is known for her coffee and news mornings where she takes a group of clients to the local shopping centre. We are very lucky to have Linda and all our other volunteers at The Bridge. If you would like to see what volunteering options we have currently available, please contact volunteer@thebridgeinc.org.au.

Linda, one of our wonderful volunteers at The Bridge.

ments, even a lively family dinner, can bring on debilitating symptoms.

“It can be frustrating because I generally can’t go anywhere by myself. I can’t go for a walk by myself because the wind can bring [stroke symptoms] on,” said Toni.

“I can’t drive. Imagine being told that you can’t drive anywhere anymore, and the impact that has on what you can do.”

Determined to educate others on this often invisible disability, Toni is now a “stroke safe speaker.”

In fact, just last year she won the National Stroke Volunteer Award.

Toni’s stroke advocacy took off in 2016. She is a member of the Stroke Foundation’s Lived Experience Council, and contributes to their Living Stroke Guidelines project.

The project is all about shaping new health policies and research directions.

“It’s about improving treatment and stroke outcomes through better understanding of lived experiences,” Toni said.

However, what motivates her above all is the staggering prevention statistics.

“About 80 per cent of strokes are actually preventable. They’re due to lifestyle factors,” she explained.

High blood pressure is the leading cause of strokes, and Toni is passionate about raising awareness of this fact, especially during Australia’s Biggest Blood Pressure Check month in May.

“The World Health Organisation has said there’d be 48 per cent less strokes if high blood

pressure didn’t exist,” she said.

“We need people to know the FAST signs — face, arm, speech and time — because they occur in 80 per cent of strokes, said Toni.

“We say ‘time equals brain’, which means that you have to get treatment as quickly as possible.

“You can’t tell what your blood pressure is unless you actually get it taken… It’s a case of going to your doctor or into a pharmacy and asking them to take your blood pressure.”

Beyond health advocacy, Toni is also president of Friends of Wilson Botanic Park, a community group that supports and promotes the popular local green space.

The role reflects her enduring love for the Casey community, nature, and helping others.

Despite the accolades, Antonia remains humble.

So humble, that her daughters had to Facetime Toni while she was in New Zealand, tucked up in her pyjamas, to tell her she had won this prestigious award.

“The girls had said that they were going to do a video call with me, I thought, oh, I’d better put a jumper on just in case anyone else is around. Luckily I did, because the Mayor and the Deputy Mayor were on the FaceTime to tell me I’d won!”

Toni’s story is one of incredible resilience and action.

From the inside the walls of a high school SRC, to the national stage of health advocacy, Antonia Arfaras continues to advocate and inspire the Casey community and beyond.

Stroke survivor, Antonia “Toni” Arfaras, has been named joint 2025 Casey Citizen of the Year.

Ren honoured with award

By Ava Cashmore

For more than three decades, Narre Warren resident, Ren Tumath, has been quietly, but significantly, reshaping the way the City of Casey includes the queer and disability communities.

Through tireless effort, incredible empathy, and an unwavering commitment to equity, Ren established Casey Cardinia Pride Inc.

Their advocacy work extends to disability rights, serving on the Casey Disability Advisory Group Committee, where they help shape policies for inclusion and equality.

Now, this remarkable contribution to equity and inclusion has been recognised with the 2025 Casey Equity and Inclusion Award.

“When they called my name, I looked at my partner… it was a complete shock,” Ren said.

“I thought I had no chance whatsoever.”

Ren’s work spans across two very personal spheres — LGBTIQA+ rights and disability advocacy.

Coming out as queer at the age of 51, Ren is open about the challenges and the importance of visibility.

“I lived a straight life for a very long time. There were no role models back then… I suppose it just took life experience to show me who I really was,” Ren said.

Ren founded Casey Cardinia Pride Inc. after experiencing a lack of support for the queer community in Casey.

“There was just nothing happening out here.

gardener and introduced them to chronic pain and the stigma that often comes with disabilities.

Ratherthanwithdrawing,Rendivedinheadfirst.

Today, Ren serves on the Casey Disability Advisory Group Committee, where they help shape policies for better accessibility and inclusion.

“There’s so much about disability I didn’t know until I joined.

“I know it from my perspective, but there are so many different experiences — and that’s what people need to understand.”

For Ren, education is key to inclusion.

“People don’t know how to talk to us — they don’t know how to ask pronouns or how to ask, ‘How did you end up in a wheelchair?’”

While Ren acknowledged that every person has different preferences in what they would like to share with the public sphere, they believe the crux of the issue can be addressed with mutual respect.

“It’s okay to ask. And if someone says, ‘No, I don’t want to tell you,’ respect that and move on,” Ren said.

Born from a modest Facebook group, Ren’s organisation has grown into an incorporated community hub, that offers safe, welcoming spaces for people of diverse genders and sexualities.

“The amount of people that would come to the group and go, ‘Wow, I thought I was the only one’... it’s those moments that matter most,” Ren said.

“So I started my first queer group before I was even out. I had nobody around me that was like me.”

But Ren’s story is also one of a physical battle.

A freak workplace accident in the early 1990s left Ren with a fractured neck — a “hangman’s fracture” that doctors initially missed.

Ren was working as a gardener when a tree branch fell on them.

“They tell me if I hadn’t had the helmet on, it would’ve killed me outright,” Ren recalled.

The injury ended their career as a professional

FOCUS ON … MEDICALLY SPEAKING

This award is not just a testament to what Ren has already achieved for their community— it’s a celebration of the inclusive future they continue to fight for.

“Everyone is equal. That’s it.

“It doesn’t matter who you are, what colour your skin is, what language you speak, what religion you are.

“We all come into this world the same way… it’s what we do in the middle that counts.”

Foot and heel pain demystified with Doctor Dowie

Foot, heel and arch pain are amongst the most frequently reported and treated conditions world-wide. Yet, there is much misinformation about these conditions often leading to misdiagnosis and incorrect or inappropriate treatment.

We spoke to one of Australia’s most experienced Musculoskeletal Podiatrists and foot, knee and leg pain experts, Dr. Paul Dowie from Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, who provided some insight.

“All foot and leg pain needs to be diagnosed and managed correctly by determining the contributing factors, not by simply addressing the symptoms.

Even your local GP, orthotist or general podiatrist may not diagnose and treat foot and leg pain and injury correctly, as their scope of practice tends to be more generalized and not specific to lower limb musculoskeletal medicine.”

With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Dowie explains that ’Plantar Fasciitis’ is one of the most commonly misdiagnosed foot complaints, with

misdiagnosis often occurring when tissue thickening evident on diagnostic scans is misinterpreted as inflammation.

In such cases anti-inflammatory treatments and cortisone are often incorrectly prescribed, which can make the condition worse.

“Most foot and heel pain occurs when the plantar fascia becomes overloaded, resulting in degeneration of the tissues and/or irritation of the nerves.

These conditions are NOT inflammatory in nature, so should not be treated as such and this is where misdiagnosis can become very problematic - as degenerative and inflammatory conditions require very different treatment.

The most common cause of foot and heel pain is actually faulty foot function or lower limb biomechanics along with environmental factors, and that is what needs to be treated - not inflammation,” Dr. Dowie explains.

If you’re struggling with foot, knee or leg pain, you can book a consultation with Dr. Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinic in Berwick. Call 1300 328 300.

Ren Tumath won the City of Casey’s Equity and Inclusion Award for their 30-plus years of volunteering and focusing on supporting the LGBTIQA+ community and founding Casey Cardinia Pride Inc. (Ethan Benedicto: 479265)

Book a consultation with Dr. Dowie at his Foot and Leg Pain Clinic in Berwick if you are struggling with foot, knee or leg pain.

New plan for Berwick Village

By Ethan Benedicto

Discussions around Berwick Village were rife during the May council meeting, with the council group unanimously agreeing to pass the new Draft Structure Plan, opening it for community consultation between June and July 2025.

Akoonah Ward’s councillor Scott Dowling was the first to move the motion, seconded by Casuarina Ward councillor Kim Ross.

Speaking on it, Dowling said that “a lot of thought and planning has gone into this plan for the Berwick Village”.

“And of course, one of the main things that we’re trying to do is to maintain the feel of the village atmosphere.

“Any designs that come across the desk will certainly be due on their merit and what contribution they can make aesthetically to the village itself,” he said.

Ross added by saying that there is importance in acknowledging the “unique nature of our activity centres”.

“Casey is a huge place, and being able to identify activity centres as unique and individual (as Berwick) is really important for Casey moving forward.

“I also encourage residents to fully participate in this opportunity for community consultation.

“We’re trying to engage with residents and hear your thoughts and your concerns, and we love your passion and your interest in the community,” she said.

The initial online survey from March to April 2024 saw that 68 per cent of residents wanted to keep the village’s existing aesthetic while integrating new buildings.

At the same time, 52 per cent believed some improvements are needed on the village’s parking situation, 52 per cent wanted to keep the median car park on High Street, with 48 per cent wanting to repurpose it for other community needs.

A strong 62 per cent of responses wanted a combined strategy of increasing both social events and developing family-friendly spaces, and 76 per cent wanted an increase in commercial establishments.

The new structure plan now effectively replaces the previous structure plan prepared in 2011, with a total of seven key directions that highlight the preservation of the village’s historical charm while allowing for the growth of local businesses and homes.

Corroborating the agenda’s statement, acting manager of growth and investment, Michael Ford, said that “the current Berwick Village Structure Plan is overdue for review”.

In detail, the plan involves a lengthy timeline that begins with the second phase of consultation in mid-2025, finalising said feedback towards the end of the year.

This includes reviewing and assessing additional sites for the heritage overlay, the parking overlay to support sustainable transport, among many others.

Berwick’s growth has been more gradual compared to the Casey LGA, with a current population of 53,904 in 2025, and projected to be 60,942 in 2046.

However, Berwick also has a higher popula-

tion density per square kilometre of 1571 persons, as compared to Casey’s overall density of 958 persons per square kilometre.

The agenda also highlighted housing demands for Casey, where, as of 2023, there were 131,000 existing homes, and a projected 87,000 new homes by 2051.

It does add that future housing and infrastructure needs must, once more, “maintain village character while accommodating gradual growth”.

Councillor Shane Taylor spoke first on the item prior to any motion, asking how the draft building height control would ensure that future development would fit with the village’s character, “while still allowing growth”.

Ford responded by saying that the plan “includes a building height plan which proposes for the first time, a three-storey height limit in the High Street retail strip”.

“Once the plan is finalised and becomes part of the planning scheme, it will be used to assess development applications in that strip,” he said.

Addressing growth, Ford added that Clyde Road, and the traffic volume it brings to Berwick Village, has proven to be key for “more intense development” that is “separate from the retail strip”.

The new and current structure plan introduced a series of changes that prioritise the northern edge of Berwick, above the Pakenham

rail line.

The 2011 version included the southern end, just before the Princes Freeway, to include planning around the health precinct that included hospitals such as Monash Health and St John of God, but also neighbouring Federation University and Nossal High School.

The change has a more concentrated focus on the village, with the agenda stating that it has been “refined to reflect contemporary planning needs and ensure a focused approach to activity centre planning”.

The village has been divided into five precincts, which include the historic Village Centre, which is home to High Street, Paternoster Lane, Adams Lane, and all buildings and businesses in between.

Here, in addition to buildings being threestorey at maximum, future developments must also encourage active retail premises at ground level, an office-like use on upper levels, and a mix of daytime and night-time uses being supported.

More importantly, these developments that are fronting High Street must maintain a narrow frontage to preserve the area’s character.

Other precincts include the Village Edge, which serves as the boundary at Peel Street, Lyall Road, Princes Highway, Richardson Grove and Langmore Lane, which were identified as the transition between commercial centres and sub-

Footy surprise for cultural awareness

By Ethan Benedicto

With the sun grazing the horizon, young players from the Clyde Cougars Football Club in Clyde were eager to get their cleats on the field, not knowing that some of their favourite footy players were waiting just around the corner.

Working on a ruse of the usual Wednesday night training, seven footy players were waiting to surprise the young players on 14 May with brand new, Indigenous guernseys ahead of the Sir Doug Nicholls Round this season.

Zac Williams, midfielder for the Carlton Blues, said that as someone who is part Indigenous, the initiative “is really important”.

“Not only from the Indigenous perspective, but just the multicultural aspect as well.

“We’ve got the Sir Doug Nicholls Round coming up over the next two weeks, and I’ve been a part of a few of them now, and it’s always really

cool to run out with a designed jersey that these artists have put a lot of effort into,” he said.

However, some young players with sharp ears and eyes noticed the centre more abuzz with cameras, and people they’ve never seen before.

By 5pm sharp, the eager youth gathered just outside the field, as Zac Williams, Bradley Hill and Dyson Heppell blitzed from outside a change room.

Following after them were Tom Lynch, Sam Docherty, Luke Davies-Uniacke and Deanna Berry, with smiles, and a handful of new, Indigenous-designed jerseys in their hands.

Bradley Hill, wingman for the St Kilda Swans, said that “it’s awesome coming in and giving the kids a bit of love”.

“I know how special it would have been had some of my heroes come to our footy clubs.”

Speaking on inclusivity and advocacy around Indigenous Australians as someone who is also

part Indigenous, Hill said that it’s amazing “how much it’s grown, especially in AFL”.

“Even now, to see a grassroots level (event) with people getting new jerseys is pretty awesome.

“Around 14 years ago, when I first started, it was only the teams that were getting these jerseys, and to see these clubs doing it now, it’s awesome and I’m very proud to see people running around with these jumpers,” he said.

The players were met with loud cheers, as the jerseys, designed by Indigenous artist Kaitlyn Boyer, were handed out to the eager children who were enamoured by seeing their favourite stars.

The Clyde Cougars Football Club are one of the 33 national clubs that decided to use their Telstra Footy Grant to recognise and celebrate Indigenous communities, and also raise cultural awareness.

urban surrounds.

Other precincts included Health and Education, Neighbourhood Green and Residential Growth.

Cr Dave Perry spoke next, noting that draft structure plans controlling building heights can be done, but “can we control what sort of businesses go into Berwick Village?”

Ford responded to Perry by saying that “we can only control land uses and define land uses only where they’re prohibited”.

“Otherwise, any developer has the right to make an application for any land use,” he said.

Deputy mayor and councillor Melinda Ambros also addressed the importance of the new plan, coining the ‘Berwick Charm’ and how it’s a very clear representation of that.

She, however, also highlighted traffic as a growing issue, and that there is assurance that “with the increased amount of foot traffic, but also car traffic, it is incorporated into the conduct and people have their input”.

Mayor Stefan Koomen also voiced his support for the new plan, and that he is “confident and comfortable” with it being an improvement.

“It will allow for appropriate improvements to be made that still maintain that great village-like feel, and there are some significant and important action plans that come out of this that will go into consultation,” he said.

A draft structure plan proposes a three-storey height limit on High Street, Berwick. (Rob Carew: 185193)

After the commotion died down, the seven AFL stars posed for some snapshots with the young players out on the field, donning their new jerseys. (Supplied)

Morning tea raises over $2k

By Violet Li

Cranbourne West Community Hub held a Biggest Morning Tea with Cranbourne West Secondary College this week, raising more than $2,000 for the Cancer Council.

Cass Tucker, an outreach officer at the school, said the Tuesday event had a turnout of about 120 and raised $2,257.

She said the event served as a great opportunity for disengaged students to reconnect with the school and the community and to develop wider skills that will be helpful in the workforce.

“The community was very happy. We got lots of positive feedback in terms of how the event was run and the engagement of the students, because on Monday, the day before, the students catered for the event,” she said.

“They drafted emails and phone calls to local businesses to get donations for the auction, and that’s where the majority of our donations were able to come from.”

City of Casey Councillors Michelle Crowther and Carolyn Eaves attended the fundraising.

Cr Crowther said it was great to be part of this community fundraiser.

“As a local physiotherapist, I work closely with many individuals affected by cancer,” she said.

“Seeing firsthand the challenges they face has deepened my commitment to supporting those on this journey and to raising essential funds for cancer prevention and early detection.

“Every contribution makes a difference, and I’m proud to stand alongside my community in this cause.”

Cr Eaves said she was honoured to attend this year’s Biggest Morning Tea at the Cranbourne West Community Hub.

“It was wonderful to see our community volunteers working alongside the students from

Cranbourne West Secondary College to bring this important fundraising event to life,” she said.

“Sadly, cancer has touched the lives of many of my friends and family, making this cause deeply personal to me.

“This annual event is a chance to come together, share stories over a cuppa and contribute to an essential cause.”

Kiara, Sam and Shylah at the Biggest Morning Tea. (Stewart Chambers: 478965)

Robyn, Lesley and Cass.Cass, Gemma and Charli with silent auction items.

Lesley.

Robyn, Cr Carolyn Eaves, Cr Michelle Crowther, Casey Citizen of the Year Anthony Hanna, Lesley and Cass.

Vivid Sydney on display

Lights, music, ideas and food – the 15th Vivid Sydney is about to get under way with Dream as its theme and some surprising guests coming to help the city celebrate.

From 23 May to Saturday 14 June the Harbor City will be the place to be and well worth a visit as it becomes awash with colour and light and cultural experiences of the musical and culinary.

And those appearing this year include comedy’s coolest couple, Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally – who will appear on stage and inconversation together for the very first time in Australia at the International Convention Centre, Sydney on Saturday, 14 June. While for the culinary-minded, watch out for events curated by Nigella Lawson, while there is a plethora of musical acts to suit all tastes.

For its 15th year, the festival footprint has been redesigned to present five zones: Circular Quay and The Rocks; Barangaroo; Martin Place and CBD (for the first time since 2018); Darling Harbour; and The Goods Line and Inner City.

Each connected zone will feature events from each of the festival pillars: Light, Music, Ideas and Food.

And the nice thing about Vivid is that more than 75 per cent of the program and 100 per cent of Vivid Light Walk is free to enjoy as the city lights up major buildings and landmarks in fun and surprising ways.

Showcasing Sydney’s creative pulse during winter, Vivid Sydney will feature exclusive collaborations for a series of events with Sydney Writers’ Festival and Sydney Film Festival, as well as cultural institutions, venues and arts companies Art Gallery of NSW, Australian Museum, Bangarra Dance Theatre, City Recital Hall, State Library of NSW, and Sydney Theatre Company.

“Vivid Sydney continues to find exciting new ways and places to bring colour, creativity and fun to our city,” NSW Minister for Tourism, Arts, Music and the Night-time Economy, John Graham enthused.

“From surprising outdoor dining experiences, to artistic light projections on our most famous landmarks and big free live shows in Tumbalong Park - Vivid Sydney has something for everyone, whether you’re a visitor or a local.

“This year’s festival is helping people face the cost-of-living crisis by increasing the number of free events, which is great news if you want a good night out without blowing the budget.”

Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini said the festival’s Dream theme is something that we all experience, and it can be interpreted in a myriad of ways.

“Dreaming is as old as time and as universal as life itself. Dreams can be prophetic, lifechanging and inspirational, as well as trivial,

hilarious or terrifying,” Gill said.

“These interactions are evident in everyaspectofVividSydney’sprogramthisyear.

“Captivating light installations and 3D projections for everyone, thought-provoking and enlightening experiences, awe-inspiring performances from the world’s best musicians, along with cutting-edge culinary collaborations and dinners in unexpected places, it can all be found at Vivid Sydney.”

The late Australian visionary, David McDiarmid’s bold and unapologetic work will be showcased on the Sydney Opera House for Lighting of the Sails, entitled Kiss of Light (2025).

Vincent Namatjira will present King Dingo on the facade of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia while the team behind Sydney fashion label, Romance Was Born will debut

of Romance on Customs House.

This year festivalgoers can interact with installations and 3D projections across the Vivid Light Walk, including voice-activated animation, suspended swings, whimsical seesaws, a tennis match with light, and self-portraits turned into 3D projections by world-renowned entertainment studio, Moment Factory.

Free Vivid Ideas events include the weekly Firetalk series at Barangaroo Reserve, bringing together First Nations storytellers, and Endling, a major new physical theatre work performed nightly by Sydney’s Legs On The Wall.

Stranger Things: The Experience will debut at Luna Park Sydney.

Vivid Food has never been more enticing. In a festival exclusive, internationally renowned food writer and TV cook, Nigella Lawson will

curate three Vivid Sydney Dinners in the

Vivid LIVE at Sydney Opera House boasts more than 50 cutting-edge and legendary international and Australian artists, including British singer and spellbinding performer Anohni and The Johnsons, Beth Gibbons from Portishead, Sigur Róswith the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, indie pop darlings Japanese Breakfast, soulful indie-folk crooner Marlon Williams, neo-soul artist Ravyn Lenae, plus homegrown trailblazers Miss Kaninna, SAHXL and more.

And all that is just the start. Check out www.vividsydney.com for much much more.

House

recently opened pedestrian tunnel Muru Giligu in Martin Place.

Unscripted and Unfiltered with Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally. (Emily Shur)Colour The City.

The Connected City.

Taking in the views.

Lighting of the Sails - Kiss of Light (2025). (Supplied)

Explore Australia in luxury

Adventurers who have travelled through this great big country of ours by four-wheel drive might mistakenly believe they have seen it all.

While ticking off the bucket list destinations of Longreach, Ayres Rock, Esperance, Broome, Rainbow Beach and the Kimberleys is admirable and indeed recommended, it is time to see our big, beautiful country of Australia from the sea.

Viking’s Grand Australia Circumnavigation roundtrip from Sydney offers a 32-day luxury cruise which incorporates 14 guided tours and the chance to explore Indonesian treasures in Komodo and Bali.

On this special cruise setting sail from Sydney on 30 December, guests will discover the rich combination of beauty and culture, encountering iconic natural wonders and lesserknown cultural gems.

When circumnavigating Australia, Viking ensures guests take in the beauty of the unspoilt, often wild shoreline and admire the Whitsunday Islands with time to experience a fascinating underwater museum during a snorkelling excursion to the Great Barrier Reef.

While in Cairns, marine lovers can take a catamaran to the Great Barrier Reef or explore the Daintree and Kuranda National Parks, vast rainforest systems.

Traverse the mineral-rich waters of the Coral Sea, then watch the scenery change as you pass Cooktown and trace the route of early civilisations as you sail the Arafura Sea.

Follow in the footsteps of Indonesia’s indigenous people and sail the Timor Sea before reaching the laid-back city of Darwin.

Guests have time to check out the crocodiles, wander the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, or get lost in the extensive Darwin Military Museum, visit the Darwin Aviation Museum or perhaps take a helicopter ride to the Litchfield National Park.

Many enjoy a cup of coffee or sip on a refreshing cocktail or lunch onboard while enjoying the views of Darwin Harbour.

Sail the Timor passing stunning isolated pristine locations and drop into the Komodo NationalPark(SlawiBay),Indonesia,withtime to get to know the legendary Komodo dragon, or the more graceful Timor deer, beautiful wild horses and stout little boars.

Here guests can swim, snorkel and relax at one of only seven pink beaches in the world, Komodo National Park’s romantic Pink Beach.

The calm, crystal blue waters abound with tropical fish, making Pink Beach a diversity hotspot that is ideal for snorkelling.

On day 14, it is time to discover the intrigu-

Circumnavigate Australia in luxury with no children, no casinos, no theme nights, just pure luxury.

ing world of gods, temples and crafts in Bali. Enjoy a market visit and Balinese Hindu Temple, arts and crafts, discover Ubud and the Rice Terraces or just soak up the sunshine and relax at a private beach resort on the shores of the Indian Ocean.

Back on board jump in the sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto or take a dip in the thermal pool to feel recharged and revitalised as the captain sails down the luxury ship down the coastline to beautiful Perth.

Here, there is time to enjoy this immaculate city or duck to Fremantle or take a Rottnest Island Segway Safari and a visit to the friendly quokkas.

Visit the leading wineries of Swan Valley and indulge in a chocolate tasting. These iconic wines are famed for their easy-drinking flavour profiles and encompass fresh, fruity reds alongside crisp, light whites, all well respected for their perfectly balanced flavours.

On to magical Busselton, renowned for its sheltered beaches, mild climate and the nearby Margaret River wine region. Its charming beachfront features the 19thcentury Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatory, where visitors can view the vi-

Sail the Indian Ocean to Albany, Western Australia’s southernmost city, with so much to explore, including the historic Whaling Station, Torndirrp National Park and Whiskey Distillery or visit the Valley of the Giants.

Witness the sheer beauty of the Great Australian Bight, the massive open bay that stretches 720 miles along the continent’s southern shore. Enjoy the view and an al fresco dining experience in the Aquavit Terrace, which serves a range of international fare and casual dining favourites, as well as a range of superb cocktails inspired by each destination.

Next stop is Adelaide, Australia’s unsung centre of high culture, history and beauty. Often called a “city within a park,” almost half of Adelaide comprises green spaces, from the lush flora and gurgling fountains of the Adelaide Botanic Garden to the Japanese-style retreat at Adelaide Himeji Garden.

Enjoy scenic sailing in the Bass Strait past King Island, which hosts several settlements and is on the migration route of several bird species.

See another side of Melbourne and immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine

with the Viking’s executive chef on an interactive culinary adventure.

Tee off in style during an unforgettable round of golf at one of Melbourne’s top-ranked courses or discover the colourful culture of Melbourne’s laneways.

Pop on a scarf and some woolly socks and enjoy Burnie, the gateway to Tasmania’s rugged natural beauty, including Cradle Mountain Lake, St Clair National Park. The park is a breathtaking landscape of trails, streams, ancient pines and wildlife.

Sail the Gippsland Coast, one of Australia’s most scenic regions, along the southeastern shoreofthecontinentontheBassStrait.Spend a relaxing day at sea to unwind and admire the vistas from the stateroom veranda.

Visit stunning Eden and its surrounding villages that lie along the scenic Sapphire Coast before arriving back in beautiful Sydney, where new friends disembark with promises of future vacation plans.

This really is a sensational way to see the vastness of the country. For more information, visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.

brant coral reef.

Just one of the stunning areas to enjoy a beverage on Viking, the Aquavit Terrace.

LEE MCCARTHY

Witness the stunning Australian coastline while relaxing and taking a real holiday.

Discover More on a River Journey FOR LESS IN 2025

Discover the magic of a Viking river

Uncover centuries of history and culture, indulging in authentic regional cuisine and enjoy everything you need included. Hurry, these offers are only available on new bookings from 8 May 2025 until sold out.

Sail on board the stunning Queen Anne during a half-world voyage to Southampton, paired with a London hotel stay.

In Sydney, embark the illustrious Queen Anne for an unforgettable 45-night voyage to Southampton, followed by a hotel stay in London. Settle in for an exquisite onboard experience as you discover a captivating array of destinations across the South Pacific and Central America. Highlights include Fiji’s blissful beaches, a journey through the Panama Canal, and tropical Aruba.

in port), Puerto Quetzal, Panama Canal (scenic cruising), Willemstad, Oranjestad, Miami, Ponta Delgada, Southampton

Jailed after wild cop chase

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A Dandenong-born carjacker has been jailed over a wild afternoon police pursuit in which he crashed and carjacked multiple vehicles across Melbourne and the South East.

Brody Hopkins, then 24, repeatedly ran red lights, overtook on the wrong side of the road and collided with several cars in heavy traffic as well as reaching speeds up to 200 km/h during the 90-minute escapade on 22 June 2023.

Victorian County Court judge Scott Johns said in sentencing on 16 May that it was as bad an episode of dangerous driving during a police pursuit as he’d seen.

Judge Johns said Hopkins posed a “real danger to lives and safety” when on the run from police and using illicit drugs.

“The facts speak for themselves.”

At one point, Hopkins attempted to stab a man during one of the four carjackings, in which he “ripped” drivers from their cars.

In another instance, he mounted a footpath narrowly missing a pedestrian.

People could have been killed at several points during the “brazen” and “extremely dangerous” conduct, Judge Johns said.

Hopkins had also terrifed victims of an armed home invasion in which he and a 15-year-old boy stole two cars.

The air and road pursuit started about 2.20pm with Hopkins fleeing with a boy in a stolen Honda HRV from Sandown Park Hotel.

Despite running over a police tyre-deflation device, Hopkins drove on, ran a red light, reached speeds of more than 130 km/h on Warrigal Road and scraped a Toyota Yaris before coming to a stop in Parkdale.

Hopkins then pulled a female driver out of a Suzuki while his teen companion smashed the side window with a crowbar.

A man nearby tried to pull Hopkins out of the car. Hopkins attempted to stab him with a utility knife and drove off with the man holding on the

doorway.

The man narrowly avoided being squashed against another car before Hopkins reversed across four lanes of traffic and drove off.

At another point, the Suzuki was boxed-in by police in a dead-end avenue in Aspendale.

Hopkins reversed intentionally into a police car and drove around two further police units to escape.

After several high-speed near-misses with oncoming traffic and red lights, Hopkins and the boy got into a waiting, stolen Triton in Springvale South.

It collided with a police vehicle as it pulled out in front of traffic at a servo on Westall Road.

Two minutes later, Hopkins crashed into an-

other car. He then got out of the moving Triton and told a driver to “get the f*** out” of her Mazda CX3.

He crashed the Mazda into the car in front and sped up to 164 km/h on Westall Road.

He crashed at about 100km/h into the side of a Hilux on Dingley Bypass, with the Hilux driver later taken to hospital for observation.

Hopkins then stole a Ford Falcon, throwing the driver to the ground.

As the pursuit rolled on, Hopkins sped up to 200km/h on Mornington Peninsula Freeway, U-turned and narrowly missed cars on Springvale Road, ran red lights in Keysborough and reached speeds of up to 160 km/h on Eastlink.

Hopkins braked and turned across two lanes

of traffic on Eastern Freeway, crashing into a Commodore and sending it spinning into median-strip bollards.

He continued up to 150km/h in emergency lanes and grass, weaving through built-up traffic and colliding with a Mercedes.

Hopkins drove up to 110km/h on Hoddle Street passing heavy congestion by detouring onto the median strip and the opposite side of the road.

Again he crashed into the back of a Mazda 6, mounted the median strip and crashed into two other cars.

At Richmond train station, Hopkins and the boy carjacked a stationary Ford Falcon.

“Get the f*** out of the car or we’re going to bash you,” Hopkins and the teen told the driver. They escaped and remained at large overnight.

The car was found the following day parked in Oakleigh.

Hopkins was arrested a few days later and had been remanded ever since.

Now 26, he pleaded guilty to a suite of charges including aggravated carjacking, aggravated home invasion, car thefts, reckless conduct endangering life, putting emergency workers at risk by driving and dangerous driving while pursued by police.

Judge Johns noted Hopkins’ PTSD stemming from a neglectful, threatening and disadvantaged childhood including family violence, bereavement and taking meth from a young age. He was impressed with Hopkins’ insight and contrition at Koori Court, as well as a “genuine desire” to reform.

However, community protection was a significant concern, Judge Johns said – unless Hopkins could overcome his drug abuse and cognitive functioning.

Hopkins was jailed for up to six years, including a three-and-a-half-year non-parole period. It included more than 22 months in pre-sentence detention.

Carpet & Hard Surface Specialists

Victorian County Court.

& Hard Surface Specialists

AI insights over breakfast

Wednesday morning’s Cardinia Business Breakfast was a resounding success, bringing together over 130 local businesspeople for a morning of connection, collaboration, and forward-thinking discussions. The event, held at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, was highlighted by an engaging keynote presentation from renowned Australian futurist, author, and technologist, Steve Sammartino.

Steve’s insights into the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence were not only thought-provoking but also incredibly relevant to the challenges and opportunities facing our local business community. His ability to break down complex concepts into engaging, relatable ideas made the morning both accessible and inspiring. As Steve aptly put it, “If you can talk, you can do it – AI finally speaks our language.” This sentiment resonated deeply with attendees, emphasising the transformative potential of AI in everyday business operations.

The breakfast provided a fantastic opportunity for attendees to connect, share insights, and discuss future collaborations. The event featured a lively Q&A session with Steve, allowing participants to delve deeper into the practical applications of AI and explore how these technologies can be harnessed to drive innovation and growth within their own businesses.

Networking opportunities were abundant, with local businesspeople mingling and exchanging ideas over a delicious breakfast catered by the Cardinia Cultural Centre. The atmosphere was one of enthusiasm and optimism, as attendees left with new connections and a renewed sense of purpose.

Cardinia Mayor Jack Kowarzik expressed his gratitude, stating, “A big thank you to all who took time out of their morning to attend the Cardinia Business Breakfast. Your participation and engagement made the event truly special. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and fostering a collaborative spirit within our business community.”

Cardinia Business Breakfast, a morning of insight and inspiration, featured a keynote presentation from renowned Australian futurist, author, and technologist, Steve Sammartino.

BERWICK

TIP-STARS

Jess Hickin Star News Group

Public Notice

The land affected by the application is located at:

Unit 2/33 Hamersley Drive CLYDE NORTH VIC 3978 Lot 1 PS 904441E

The application is for a permit to: Variation in Restrictive Covenant to allow the sale of food and drink from the premises and the reduction in car parking requirement. Notice is not required for the reduction in car parking.

You may also call (03 9705 5200) to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the

of the responsible authority,

City Council. This can be done in office hours and is free of charge

An objection must:

•be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au

•include the application number and site address

the reasons for the objection, and •state

The applicant for the permit is: Clyde

The application reference number is: PA24-0436

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the Responsible Authority.

Documents can also be viewed on Council’s website or by scanning the QR code.

https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/viewplanning-applications

GRACE REMOVALS (Australia) Pty Ltd A.B.N 35 083 330 223 of Tucks Rd, Seven Hills NSW herebygivesnoticeunder the Victoria Warehousemen'sLiensAct1958that storage charges are overdue for the undermentioned accounts. Unless paymentinfullisreceived on or before the goods 30/05/2025 will be offered for sale by Public Auction at the premises named; Abbeys Auctions, 80/86 Highbury Rd, Burwood VIC 3125, Auction to be held 30/06/2025 commencing 10am. FARMAM- ref HB00932493 H/H items store at Hallam 19/08/11 owes $1758.45. PACE –ref DM10256098 H/H itemsstoredatHallam 05/05/13 owes $1234.08. KELLY- ref 7714058443 H /HitemsstoredatHallam 30/06/96 owes $195,901. RIDDENrefDMKW086247 H/HstoredatHallam 16/01/13 owes $4150.68. OWENrefDMKW0806324 H/Hitemsstored at Hallam 02/04/13 owes $932.95. PARKER ref DM01834430H/Hitems storedatHallam21/08/22 owes $1350.0. PELCHEN refDM01711679

H/H items stored at Hallam 30/08/21owes $3673.54.ABBOTTref WD0107745 H/H items storedatHallam10/06/21 owes$9029.0. MACLEANref7614001434

You may also call (03 9705 5200) to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Casey City Council. This can be done in office hours and is free of charge Want to place an ad but not sure where to start?

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the Responsible Authority.

An objection must: •be made to the Responsible Authority in writing to, Manager Planning, P.O. Box 1000, Narre Warren 3805 or emailed to caseycc@casey.vic.gov.au

•include the application number and site address •include the reasons for the objection, and •state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority must make a copy of every objection available at its office for any person to inspect during office hours free of charge until the end of the period during which an application may be made for review of a decision on the application.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 05 June 2025

If you object, the Responsible Authority will advise you of its decision.

our helpful classified team between 8:30am-5pm Mon-Fri for

H/H items stored at Hallam12/02/21owes $1986.82 . OBRIEN ref DM01429975 H/H items storedatHallam 25/03/18 owes $2012.12. YOUNG ref DM01516377 H/Hitemsstoredat Hallam 29/11/19 owes $2944.18.

WHAT’S ON

Casey Community Market

Every month, Casey Community Market bursts to life at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Hampton Park! Discover unique handmade treasures, savour delicious food, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Come join us & experience the richness of the Casey Community.

• The next market is this coming Saturday, 24 May. The market runs from 10am to 2pm, at: 2/6 The Fairway, Hampton Park.

Broadway Legends concert

Cranbourne Chorale presents “Broadway Legends” with guest artists Teresa Ingrilli and Stephen Coutts. Afternoon tea is included and served after the performance.

• 22 June 2.30pm at Cranbourne Community Theatre, Brunt Street, Cranbourne. Tickets: cranbournechorale.com.au/events, 0438 358 032 or at the door; $25/$20/under 12 $5. Men’s Shed Junction Village Inc.

The Men’s Shed provides a facility for men’s mental health where men can come and enjoy each other’s company in a non-judgmental environment. Men are able to share ideas and life experiences plus learn new skills which benefit themselves and the local community.

Our members are proud of their efforts in producing wooden toys to donate to the Salvation Army Toy Fund. However, making wooden toys is not a requirement of membership and you can make your own projects, if you prefer.

Retired men are most welcome to visit the Shed and have a chat/cuppa to check-out our fully equipped Shed (lots of “toys” to play with!) and see what we do for the community.They do not need any woodwork experience as Shed members are happy to pass on their experience in an enjoyable and friendly atmosphere.

Shed members can also be seen cooking a sausage at Bunnings, displaying our projects at Botanic Ridge Village, or heading off to visit other sheds around the state (All good fun!)

We are located at 41 Craig Road, Junction Village and open on Mondays from 9.00 am to 11.30 am and Wednesdays and Fridays from 9.00 am to 2.30 pm.

• For more information and a tour of our Shed, contact Garry on 0408 141 734.

Trades & Services

Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club

Cranbourne Senior Citizens Club meets weekly for a range of different events, including bus trips, community days, games, coffee and chat, bingo, dancing and carpet bowls.

Not a member? Doesn’t matter, come along and join the fun.

Weekly activity times - Line Dancing Mon.10am12pm, New Vogue and Old Time Dance Tue. 1pm3:30pm, Carpet Bowls Wed. & Sat. 11:30am2:30pm, Bingo Thur. 11am-2pm.

For all enquiries or bookings contact Marilyn mobile 0432 107 590.

• Find us on facebook https://www.facebook. com/groups/487808127399953

Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre

Sewing Classes – Thursdays during school terms9:30-11:30am - Learn the basics of sewing and make bags and simple garments. Sew for charity. - $5 per session.

Conversational English Classes – Thursdays 9.30am-11.30am during school terms - Come along to practice and improve your English skills in a relaxed environment comfortable, casual classes with a friendly, patient tutor - $5 per class.

Intermediate Computers for Work - Thursdays during school terms 1-4pm - Build on your current computer skills and learn workplace apps such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook email – Contact us for fee information.

Thee Coffee Table - Welcoming women’s community group - Every Friday - 11am-2pm - Free Biggest Morning Tea - Wed, 28 May 10:30 am – 12:00 pm - We are hosting Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea in aid of the Cancer Council. Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is a community event that raises vital funds to make a big difference for those impacted by cancer. We will have refreshments such as sausage rolls and pies, homemade scones, sandwiches, something sweet and a fruit platter. There will be fun and games in exchange for a gold coin donation and a raffle - The cost is $5 per person, with proceeds going to the Cancer Council.

Career & Employment Counselling for Job Seekers – alternate Wednesdays starting 7th May 9:00 am – 1:00 pm - Career counsellors from Chisholm

Skills and Jobs Centre are available to work with you on writing your resume, support you to apply for jobs or help you identify your next steps in looking for work. Fortnightly by appointment – Free

•New Day Care Hours - NOW OPEN - 9am until 3pm. We have spots available in our nurturing and fun Day Care, which prioritises the well-being and growth of every child. Children from 2 months to 5 years can now attend from 9am until 3pm up to 5 days a week.

• Call 03 5996 9056 or email mpcs@merindapark.com.au for more information or to register your child.

• Volunteers are welcome to come and help maintain our community garden

• All the above are held at Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre, 141 - 147 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North 3977

• For more information and bookings, call - 5996 9056

U3A Cranbourne

20 - 22 Bowen Street, Cranbourne

We are a social group for people aged over 50 with many interesting and creative activities. We have recently started a garden group as we have lovely gardens where we can plant vegetables, herbs and flowers and enjoy a tea or coffee outdoors when the weather is nice.

New members would be very welcome to join us. We also have lots of art and craft groups, calligraphy, scrabble, quilling, resin making, and card making are popular classes.

We run a beginner ukulele and guitar group. Ray leads the ukulele group, and Maurie assists our beginner guitar group on Monday mornings.

We are a not-for-profit group, assisted by Casey Council to run our programs. Our membership fee of $50 per year entitles you to join as many classes as you wish.

Line dancing is run at another local public hall, and a gold coin donation covers the hire of the hall for this popular group. No experience needed, Steve walks us through each dance and is very helpful.

• Check out all our classes at www.u3acranbourne.org.au or phone 0493 991 919 for more information

AWCC Tai Chi

Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre

If you are over 55 years, newly retired or new to the City of Casey and looking forward for something to do, come and join us. The Narre Warren Senior Citizens Centre is a friendly seniors Club and we can offer you many activities. Our main Club Day is on Wednesdays from 9:30am to 3:00pm. On the first Wednesday of the month we enjoy socialising with our many members and, on the next three (3) Wednesdays we have live entertainment wherein you can do some dancing or line dancing and if you wish, with an afternoon cup of tea and biscuits. We also hold weekly activities on other days during the week which include the Garden Group, Indoor Carpet Bowls, Table Tennis, Line Dancing, Gentle Exercises and friendly Card Games.

• We are located at 192-196 Centre Road near the Narre Warren Station. Phone us on 9783 7112 or on Mobile 0426 736 467 or you can email us at: narrewarrenseniors@gmail.com for more information

Blind Bight Community Centre Craft gift making for adults from 12.30pm to 2.30pm on Tuesdays.

Join in the craft gift making class and bring along your own craft to complete.

A variety of techniques and skills are shared including mosaics, macrame, sewing and painting at $3 per class.

Playgroup from 10.30am to noon on Wednesdays. The program provides fun play activities and craft for children at $5 per family.

Free knit and crochet from noon to 2pm on Wednesdays.

Line dancing from 1pm to 2pm on Wednesdays. All ages, and abilities welcome at $10 per class.

• For more information and for bookings, visit www.blindbightcommunitycentre.com.au

Join us for a free trial class in Wudang Martial Arts, featuring Adult Tai Chi or Teen Kung Fu. Limited spots available—first come, first served! Trial classes will be held on Sunday, April 6th, 2025, from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM (Teen Kung Fu) and 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM (Adult Tai Chi) at Timbarra Community Centre, 26 Parkhill Drive, Berwick. To register your interest, please call 0467-597-080 or email ad@awcc.com.au.

Wickers fall one-point shy

By David Nagel

Berwick hearts were broken with the second last kick of the match against Vermont on Saturday with the Eagles prevailing 4.15(39) to 5.8(38) in an Eastern Premier Division thriller.

The siren sounded just 29 seconds after Vermont small forward Kobe Askew broke a last-quarter deadlock, with Berwick’s Will Arthurson then pumping the resultant kick out to centre wing.

The sweet sound of the final siren then blurted across the Vermont Recreation Reserve for the home side; providing it with its third win for the season.

Berwick, on the other hand, is still searching for its first win despite a competitive first five rounds of football.

The Wickers have lost all their games this season by a collective 88 points; with valiant efforts against Doncaster East (33), Noble Park (14), East Ringwood (20), Balwyn (20) and now Vermont (1) so far going unrewarded.

Vermont began the game in strong fashion on the weekend with Kane Oppy producing a brilliant crumbing goal before Yarran Jaffer Williams found himself way too loose; way too close to goal.

The Wickers reduced the margin to seven points at quarter time after some hard running from Jonte Andrew saw him race into an open goal after a strong marking contest from Jordy Andrews.

Berwick then kicked the only two goals of the second term to take a six-point lead to half time.

Tahj De La Rue first nailed a set shot after a courageous mark, running back with the flight of the ball, before Sam Frangalas kicked a great goal on the run to give the visitors a hard-fought halftime lead.

Berwick dominated possession in the latter stages of the first half but just couldn’t translate it to scoreboard pressure.

Neither side could pierce the big sticks in a dour third quarter contest that saw the Eagles out score the Wickers by three points to two.

Berwick had a five-point lead as coach An-

EASTERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE PREMIER REVIEW - ROUND 5

drew Williams gave his final address at the threequarter-time huddle.

Vermont took the early ascendency in the final term after Askew chest-marked and goaled, before Berwick produced its best passage of play for the match.

Kicking in from full back, Caleb Van Oostveen found James McLean in the middle of the ground, with McLean driving the ball long into the Berwick forward line.

Frangalas, the only multiple goalkicker on the day, then pounced on a loose footy, took a bounce, before slotting a team-lifting goal on the run.

Lucas Vassis then answered for the Eagles, before Jai Neal marked and goaled to give Berwick a four-point lead at the 13-minute mark of the last. Vermont would then score five consecutive points to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Josh Spencer and Oscar Dunn both had

chances to win it for the home side, who drew level after a rushed behind after 24 minutes of play.

Askew then took the final mark of the match, with his set shot pushed to right…but scoring the most crucial point of the contest.

Arthurson then launched a desperate long bomb, with the siren sounding to end a great effort from the visitors.

Lion-hearted ruck Jesse Cirulis was terrific for the Wickers all day, while Ashton Williamson was a constant presence at stoppage; before being sent off at a crucial point of the last quarter after the umpire adjudicated a sling tackle.

Tom Brennan, Arthurson and Van Oostveen were steady influences down back, while Brandon Cunningham and De La Rue had some great moments in the rain.

The Wickers return home this week to Edwin Flack Reserve to take on third-placed Rowville, who fell from top spot on the ladder after a 27-point defeat at the hands of Blackburn.

EASTERNPREMIER

VermontGoals: Kobe Askew, Yarran Jaffer Williams, Kane Oppy, Lucas Vassis. Best: James Ross, Matthew Willcocks, Angus Strachan, Lachlan Reidy, Joseph Fisher, Oscar Dunn. BerwickGoals: Samuel Frangalas 2, Jonte Andrew, Tahj De La Rue, Jai Neal. Best: Ashton Williamson, Jesse Cirulis, William Arthurson, Brandon Cunningham, Tom Brennan, Caleb Van Oostveen.

ResultsR5: Doncaster East 12.3(75) def Mitcham 10.12(72), East Ringwood 15.9(99) def Noble Park 5.8(38), Balwyn 10.10 (70) def South Croydon 8.7(55), Rowville 8.7(55) def by Blackburn 12.10(82).

Ladder: East Ringwood 20, Blackburn 20, Rowville 16, Balwyn 12, Doncaster East 12, Vermont 12, Noble Park 8, Mitcham 0, Berwick 0, South Croydon 0. FixtureR6–24May: Berwick (9) v Rowville (3), Vermont (6) v Noble Park (7), Blackburn (2) v East Ringwood (1), Mitcham (8) v South Croydon (10), Doncaster East (5) v Balwyn (4).

Beaconsfield celebrates an Aarts show in month of May

By David Nagel

A perfect five-game winning streak through the month of May is still a distinct possibility for Beaconsfield after the Eagles made it three straight wins with a hard-fought 21-point victory over Mooroolbark on Saturday.

Having disposed of Boronia and Montrose over the previous fortnight - and with games against Norwood (ninth) and Bayswater (eight) to come - the weekend provided Mick Fogarty and his men with the ideal opportunity to land the middle blow of an Eastern Division 1 hot streak.

The Mustangs kicked the first of the afternoon, when Josh Neal outmanoeuvred Jack Docherty before slotting a set shot from 30 metres out; before the Eagles settled nicely into their work.

Co-captain Jake Bowd kicked one of the easiest goals of his career to level the scores, receiving a free kick on the goal-line, before the visitors produced one of their best passages of play for the season.

A stoppage was created on the Eagles’ halfback line, with second ruck Charlie Muley beginning the blistering piece of play by tapping to midfielder Jake Aarts.

The former Richmond livewire handballed under pressure to half-back Brandon White, who sped through the corridor before launching long to Marley Appleyard at half forward.

Young-gun Appleyard competed well, winning the resultant contest and handballing to winger Ali Zijai on his damaging left foot.

Zijai lined up the big sticks from 50, before sailing one through to give the Eagles a fivepoint advantage at quarter time.

Zijai almost undid his great work with a poor turnover at the start of the second term, but a missed shot from Neal let the Eagles’ playmaker off the hook.

It took 15 minutes for Beaconsfield to kick the first of the second quarter, and it was the

Carew: 469881)

Muley-Aarts combination that once again went to work.

Muley tapped perfectly to Aarts for a second time, at a forward-50 ball up, with the silkyskilled midfielder gathering cleanly before finishing off the job with a right-foot snap for goal.

The Eagles then grew their 10-point lead to 16 after Tylah Stokoe nailed a set shot after some head-high contact from Connor Riley.

Then one of the real mysteries of the 2025 season took place…Brandon White made a mistake!

Mustang’s forward Sam Gebert smothered White’s optimistic kick-in from full back; before snapping truly to cut the margin to a delicately poised eight points at the major interval.

Myles Currie and Ryan Symons then traded six pointers at the start of the third, before the

Eagles finally locked away the four premiership points with the next three goals of the match.

A desperate Taelor Reyment landed a huge blow, heading towards three-quarter time, setting up Currie’s second with a brilliant rundown tackle to make it 15 points the difference at the final break.

On a day when his team only kicked eight goals for the match, it was the class of Aarts that once again stood out at the beginning of the final term.

Having played a huge hand in Zijai’s first-quarter goal, and kicking one of his own in the second term, Aarts did it again, handballing slickly to Damien Johnson who kicked a classy goal on the run.

Any hopes of a Mustang’s comeback were then nullified when ruck Travis Stewart marked

and goaled at the 16-minute mark of the last quarter to make it 27 points the difference.

Lachlan Monteath kicked the last goal of the match for Mooroolbark, but the damage had been done.

New faces to Beaconsfield’s team this year; Aarts, Appleyard, Stewart and Zijai, were exceptional for the Eagles on the day, while Finn Devine continues to elevate his reputation as reliable key defender.

Reyment’s run-down tackle was the highlight moment in a rock-solid four-quarter contribution, while the two third-quarter goals from Currie were crucial moments when the game was truly on the line.

Beaconsfield makes the trip to a winless Norwood this week…hoping to maintain its May momentum!

EASTERNDIVISION1

Mooroolbark Goals: Sam Gebert, Lachlan Monteath, Joshua Neal, Ryan Symons. Best: Harrison Keeling, Kane Noonan, Billy Batten, Jett Hartman, Rhys Crossley, Connor Riley.

BeaconsfieldGoals: Myles Currie 2, Jake Aarts, Jake Bowd, Damien Johnston, Travis Stewart, Tylah Stokoe, Ali Zijai. Best: Finn Devine, Travis Stewart, Ali Zijai, Marley Appleyard, Jack Docherty, Taelor Reyment.

ResultsR6: South Belgrave 17.11(113) def Boronia 9.5(59), Montrose 25.17(167) def Norwood 7.9(51), North Ringwood 7.6(48) def by Park Orchards 12.18(90). Bye: Bayswater.

Ladder: South Belgrave 20, Park Orchards 20, Beaconsfield 16, Boronia 12, Mooroolbark 8, Montrose 8, North Ringwood 8, Bayswater 4, Norwood 0.

FixtureR7–24May: Norwood (9) v Beaconsfield

Mooroolbark

v Montrose

Boronia (4) v Park Orchards

Bayswater

v South Belgrave (1). Bye: North

(3),

(5)

(6),

(2),

(8)

Ringwood (7).

Jake Aarts made some vital contributions in Beaconsfield’s 21-point victory over Mooroolbark. (Rob

Braedyn Bowden and his Berwick teammates went down fighting in a thrilling contest against Vermont on Saturday. (Gary Sissons: 475433)

Southern stars shot down

By Blair Burns

There were no regular matches played in Southern Division 1 on Saturday as the best players in the league took the field for the interleague clash against Western Football Netball League.

The conditions were wet and cold as three Southern football sides made the trip out to Avalon Airport Oval as they prepared to battle for bragging rights.

The senior interleague clash featured Narre Warren captain Joel Zietsman and star forward Jake Richardson, while Cranbourne’s Andrew Green was also in action.

The senior men’s coach was Cheltenham’s Des Ryan, with Andy Scott (St Paul’s McKinnon), Kris Thompson (Springvale Districts) and Zach Horsley (Dingley) his assistants.

The day started well for Western as Tom Condon kicked the opening goal of the match, inside the first 60 seconds.

Southern struggled for the remainder of the first quarter as repeat forward 50 entries for Western kept Zietsman and Green busy in defence. Richardson struggled to get into the game in the first quarter, pressing up to get involved in the play and get his hands on the football.

At quarter time, Southern was scoreless and had been beaten in the clearance battle by a side which had just been cleaner and better in the conditions.

But Southern responded in the second, kicking three goals to one as they got back in the contest, kicking to the scoring end with a slight breeze.

Dingley midfielder Jackson Peet was impressive and helped his side gain some control around the contest to give Murrumbeena forwards Dareo Rogers and Ed Standish some good looks at goal. Rogers was everywhere and took his chances in front of the big sticks, kicking four for the match and leading the way for his team.

Western was determined to push the lead out further in the third quarter and that is what the hosts did as they kicked four goals to one, taking a 29-point lead into the final term.

The Southern surge came in the form of five

SOUTHERN FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE

INTERLEAGUE

FOOTBALL REVIEW

final-quarter goals, as the team doubled its threequarter-time score.

However, Western was too good and if the side had kicked straighter, the margin would’ve likely been more than 14 points.

Zietsman and Green had plenty of the football down back and used the ball well given the conditions.

Narre Warren’s Richardson, who has kicked 10 goals in his past three games, had no trouble getting his hands on the ball, but failed to register a major as he missed a few shots on goal.

Ben Dessent (East Brighton) was another strong performer for Southern.

Rogers earned the best on ground medal for Southern with his four goals, while Tom Condon

was Western’s best player on the day. The Under-19s men played earlier in the day as Southern won by 33 points, with Ethan Campbell (Cranbourne), Jimmy Dwyer and Toby Griffiths (Narre Warren) all performing well.

Western was far too strong for Southern in the senior women’s clash, winning by 25 points.

Magnificent Mashado shines on the interleague stage

By Blair Burns

Three Narre Warren netballers took the court for the open netball interleague clash against Western Football Netball League on Saturday in Werribee.

Brittany Mashado, Grace Loelu and Gabrielle Dwyer all played in the Magpies’ victory over Caulfield Bears last Thursday in Round 6, but they had another big game approaching on the weekend.

Mashado was dominant in the midcourt for the interleague side and was recognised as Southern’s best player on the day, earning a medal for her outstanding performance.

The Narre Warren star said she wasn’t trying to do anything too special and was instead just focused on playing her role.

“I just did what I usually do and that is playing my part for the team...not (playing) for any form of individual accolades or recognition,” Mashado said.

“We had opportunities (to win the game) … but it’s hard playing with new people and learning how each other plays, also while playing a competitive game of interleague.”

Mashado said playing alongside a couple of her teammates definitely eased some nerves and helped the side produce some quality netball.

“When all three of us were on the court, we connected really well and transitioned the ball seamlessly,” she said.

“It was nice having some girls around you that you knew how to play with, and could feed and pass the ball to.

“We had (Dwyer) at the defensive end, me in the midcourt and (Loelu) at the other end.”

Conditions were tough as the rain came down and the girls were forced to adjust, after originally expecting to play on indoor courts.

“A lot of us went there thinking we were playing indoors … but it turned out to be outdoor courts in the cold and wet weather,” she said.

Southern’s

477567)

“It happened to rain for the majority of the game which made it a bit tougher … it became a bit of a ping pong game at one point with dropped balls and passing errors.

“But we did pretty well as a collective after going into the game without even knowing each other’s names.”

Narre Warren netball president Chelsea Tonna said it was great to have almost a third of the team selected to play interleague.

“It was so good to have a strong representation with three out of our 10 Narre Warren players selected in there, which was huge,” she said.

“For Grace to be able to play with some great players was a great experience and big for her development.”

Brittany Mashado was named as

best player in the interleague match. (Ljubica Vrankovic:

Young Narre Warren star, Grace Loelu looks to convert in the goal ring. (477567)

Gabrielle Dwyer was important at the defensive end of the court. (477567)

Jake Richardson (Narre Warren) sets up for a shot on goal during the interleague match against Western. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 477563)

Cranbourne’s Andrew Green spoils the ball. (477563)

Joel Zietsman searches for an option. (477563)

Cannons raise 7k for BCNA

By Blair Burns

Last weekend was about much more than just hockey at Casey Cannons Hockey Club as it managed to raise more than $7,000 for the Breast Cancer Network Australia.

Two members of the club, Tegen Hyland and Jess Fitzgerald shaved their heads to raise money for the great cause, with the club welcoming donations.

Cannons Club president Seann Rowland said Pink Round was about more than just wearing pink on the day.

“It’s about education and awareness so everyone can really understand why we are raising money for this great cause,” he said.

“We are really proud as a club that this year we focused on that education side of things … and we were very grateful to have Jess Pearce come down and do a session for the women and girls to raise more awareness.”

Pearce is an ambassador for the Breast Cancer Network Australia and spoke about her lived experience with breast cancer.

The Pink Round is an annual event, but Rowland said the club raised more money than ever before.

“In terms of donations, we were blown away with how many people donated to the girls for shaving their heads, but also to the canteen and bar sales knowing some of that was going to BCNA,” he said.

“It was pretty unreal, it just kind of took off and people kept donating and all of a sudden, we’d raised over $7,000.

While there was plenty of good hockey played over the weekend, Rowland said the best part was the incredible off-field support and fundraising efforts.

“The highlight of the club was how many community and club members got down and supported on the weekend, but also during the week, and how much money we’ve been able to raise,” he said.

The senior women were also the most successful on the hockey field last weekend with three of the four teams winning their matches.

The Women’s Vic League (WVL1) side had a huge victory over the Geelong Sharks in Round 6, winning6-2astheyproducedsomeamazingplays.

Samantha Wagg was at her damaging best again with two goals, while the other scorers were Rebecca Wagg, Charlotte Smith, Emma Harris and Chantelle Calado.

While the WVL1 Reserves also had a good win over the Sharks as they prevailed 2-0 in a hardfought contest.

Rebecca Gregory and Mia Joner scored one goal each in the thrilling victory as they continue

their strong form.

The Women’s Pennant E South East team got back on the winners’ list in Round 6 as it defeated Hawthorn 2-0 in what was a good battle.

Kimberlee Davidge was on fire and gave the opposition defenders all sorts of problems, scoring both of the Cannons’ goals to lead her team to victory.

While the Women’s Metro 1 side lost in a onegoal thriller against Mornington Peninsula and despite chances, they were unable to get over the line.

Casey Cannons didn’t have as much success in the men’s fixture as they lost three of the four

matches.

But the MVL2 side had made it two big wins in a row as it came from behind to defeat Werribee in a thriller.

The Cannons were jumped at the beginning of the contest and found themselves trailing 3-0, and it looked like Werribee were going to run away and win.

Enter Tristan Chaffey and captain Craig Moore who both netted two goals and were determined to produce a comeback victory for the ages.

David Noney and Harry Coster also impacted the scoreboard and helped the Cannons to a famous victory, overturning a three-goal deficit to

win the game 6-4.

Unfortunately, this was the only time the men celebrated a victory for the weekend.

The MVL2 Reserves fell short against Werribee 4-2 despite goals from Charlie Coster and Tyler Jacobs who battled hard.

In the Men’s Pennant D South East competition, Casey Cannons were beaten 3-0 by a formidable Hawthorn side, while they also fell short in the Men’s Metro South 2 competition against Glen Eira, 4-0.

The women will be determined to carry their strong form into Round 7 this weekend, while the men’s sides will look to bounce back.

Cardinia Storm celebrates Pink Round with three wins

By Blair Burns

Cardinia Storm Hockey Club celebrated the women last weekend as the club won all of its matches in strong fashion, not conceding a goal for the entire weekend.

The Pink Round supported the Breast Cancer Network Australia and raised funds for the cause, with the club thanking everyone who baked, donated, decorated or volunteered their time to make it a great day.

The week leading up to the match was filled with excitement as the women undertook plenty of special activities, including self-defence workshops at ATA Martial Arts.

The weather held off on the day and allowed the match to proceed smoothly, as the Cardinia women put on a clinical performance in the Women’s Metro 1 South competition.

The side had a big 5-0 victory over the Collegians and now sits in second spot on the ladder with a season record of 5-1.

Storm struck the first blow as Maddie Reincastle found the back of the net early in the match to put Cardinia up on the scoreboard.

But she wasn’t done here, as the star dominated proceedings to score two more goals and complete her first ever hat-trick.

Zena Nicholas and Lauren Walsh were also impressive in the victory, each scoring good goals to take the final margin out to five goals.

The development of the younger players on the side is among the most pleasing things for Cardinia Storm.

Annabelle Fallu, as well as sisters Deane and Leandi Blignaut continue to grow in confidence as they link up well across the field.

Following the women’s game, the successful weekend for Cardinia Storm was set to continue as the Men’s Metro 1 South team defeated Southern United 4-0.

Hasantha Jasinarachchi set the tone for the match with an early score against Southern United.

The match kicked off with an energetic start as they opened the scoring and started well, with defensive plays helping to move the ball quickly.

Taylor Rae was the star of the show for the Storm after he was held goalless last week, bouncing back to score a hat-trick on the day.

Kieran McLellan was a huge part of this as he set up two goals for Rae in the dying stages of the match.

The defence and midfield were great as it helped set up these opportunities through Tristan Yates and Troy White, who were impressive.

In the third quarter, Cardinia had plenty of entries into the attacking zone but struggled to convert on its dominance, leaving the scoreboard unchanged.

The match concluded with a commanding 4-0 victory for Cardinia Storm, while the Men’s Metro 2 side stay in reach of top position thanks to a 5-0 forfeit.

Maddie Reincastle was in fine form as she scored a hat-trick for her side. (Gary Sissons: 478099)

Cardinia Mayor Jack Kowarzik (left) was in attendance, pictured with the women’s side after their great win. (478099)

Casey Cannons’ players Tegen Hyland and Jess Fitzgerald shaved their heads to raise money for breast cancer. (Supplied)

Casey Cannons’ girls and women’s teams together.

Casey Cannons inclusivity coordinator Michaela Bullock with BCNA ambassador Jess Pearce.